Families Glasgow Magazine May June 17

Glasgow Issue 63 May/June 2017

What’s On Where to “pick your own” Win tickets to Ignition

In this issue...

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Ignition is back, bigger and better for 2017!

WIN Tickets to IGNITION 2017!

Ignition Festival of Motoring will return to Glasgow’s SEC this August for an exhilarating 3-day extravaganza of cars, bikes, stunts and much more! We’ve teamed up with IGNITION to bring you the chance to win the perfect Father’s Day experience at Scotland’s largest motorsport show!

To be in with a chance of winning, simply answer the following question:

WHEN DID IGNITION 2016 TAKE PLACE? 1. 5 – 7th August 2016 2. 12th – 14th March 2016 3. 23rd – 25th December 2016 To enter e-mail your answer to Families at competitions@familiesglasgow.co.uk (subject: “Ignition”) with your name and address by June 10th. Standard terms and Conditions apply.

I

GNITION Festival of Motoring returns to the SEC, Glasgow this summer – bigger, faster and louder. Bringing you more cars, more bikes, more stunts, more viewing areas, more manufacturers and dealers and a brand new family friendly interactive driving area, it’s the perfect day out for all the family.

IGNITION is a true celebration of all things motoring and the specially constructed street circuit gives you the unique opportunity to get up close to the sight, sound and smell of everything from rally cars to Formula 1, supercars to classic cars, motorbikes and all things wacky and wonderful.

This year IGNITION is paying homage to the ‘Gods of Rallying’ for the first time ever. The show is also launching an outdoor Ride and Drive Zone including off road driving experiences, test drives, a young driver experience, and the chance to have a go on electric motocross and trials bikes. The indoor IGNITION arcade is another new addition for 2017, packed with activities for all the family. Have a go at Remote Control drifting, giant scalextric, virtual reality, simulators, drone racing, gaming areas, remote control truck racing and more.

The Pit Lane Paddock provides the perfect opportunity to get up close to the cars and their engineers as they prepare to go out on track whilst the Tartan Tarmac Paddock is the central hub and your chance to get up close to the stellar track line-up, including hot rods, vintage classics, historic motorsport, supercars and more. Both the Pit Lane and Tartan Tarmac paddocks are open to all visitors.

For more information on the show and to see ticket prices, please visit www.ignitionfestival.co.uk

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News & Views

6-7

Outdoor Play - Pick Your Own, Where to Meet Animals, Forest Shools

8-9

Pets - Taking Your Dog on Holiday

10-11 Tips & Advice - Make Homework Fun, When to Leave Your Child Home Alone 12-15 What’s On Highlights

Welcome to issue 63!

I have lived in Glasgow for almost 25 years now – I have worked as a housing researcher in Govan, an office clerk in Tollcross, tutored science students in Castlemilk, danced at the Cotton Club, the Shed and the Tuxedo Princess.

Editor: Susanne Hein editor@familiesglasgow.co.uk, 01355 459 314 Keep up to date at www.familiesonline.co.uk @FamiliesGlasgow Next issue: June/July Tell us about any events or classes that you want to publicise.

Please get in touch Booking deadline: June 2nd Special ad rates and offers available, call or email to find out more.

Designed by kris@grafikfabrik.co.uk.

Printed By J Thomson Colour Printers.

Tel: 0844 395 4000 www.sec.co.uk A VISTAR ENTERTAINMENT PRODUCTION ©2017 Spin Master PAW Productions Inc. All Rights Reserved. © 2017 Viacom.

Joe Gallagher Entertainments 180x130.indd 1 2017 Families Glasgow 2 96562May/June

12/04/2017 15:38

Best wishes,

Blue Peter Badge

Get in touch

SEC ARMADILLO Fri 1 - Sun 3 September 2017

I thought I had seen every corner of this glorious city, but it keeps re-inventing itself and surprising me. Having a child shows you a completely different side to the parks and museums.

Every time I visit cousins in Anniesland or Kirkintilloch, or friends in Scotstoun, Cumbernauld and East Kilbride I am on the lookout for new and old haunts, reimagined for little people. For example, did you know that the Watersports Centre at Strathclyde Country Park runs bumper boats and speedboat trips? Or that Craigned Nursery and Coffee Shop in Condorrat has an indoor beach for little ones?

The Cuningar Loop in the east end has become a firm favourite of ours, especially while her royal highness (aka my daughter) gets to grips with her bike.

Check out my list of places to pick your own fruit and meet farm animals.

The strawberry season is just around the corner! And for Father’s Day I have teamed up with the Ignition Festival to bring you the chance to win a family ticket to the event in August!

Copyright: Families Glasgow Magazine April 2017.

Families Glasgow is part of Families Magazines Ltd a franchise company. All franchised magazines in the group are independently owned and operated under licence. Families ® is a registered trademark of Families Magazines Ltd, Remenham House, Regatta Place, Marlow Road, Bourne End, Bucks, SL8 5TD. The contents of Families Glasgow are fully protected by copyright and non of the editorial or photographic matter may be reproduced in any form without prior consent of the publisher. We take every care preparing this magazine but the publishers and distributors cannot be held responsible for the claims of advertisers nor for the accuracy of the contents nor for any consequence.

If you have a young person aged 6-15 it’s worth checking out getting a Blue Peter Badge – entry to 12 Scottish attractions is free to badge holders, including Edinburgh Zoo and Kelburn Castle!

For more information see www.bbc. co.uk/cbbc/joinin/about-blue-peterbadges

Community Corner Birth, Baby and Beyond is a Children's Charity based in the West End of Glasgow. We work with various organisations within Greater Glasgow providing families with Starter Packs of essential baby and child items that they would not normally be able to obtain.d items that they would not normally be able to obtain.

In our shop you will find an Aladdin's cave of fantastic new and used maternity, baby and child items, all of a very high quality, at the fraction of the recommended retail price. All items have been very generously donated to us by families in and around Glasgow. If you would like to donate any unwanted

NCT Nearly New Sale Saturday May 20th 1:30-3:30pm Queens Park Baptist Church 20 Balvicar Drive, G42 8QS All welcome, top quality baby and children’s items for sale NNS.Glasgow@nct.org.uk

maternity, baby or child items we would love to have them. Items can be dropped off at our shop on 572 Dumbarton Road, G11 6RH or one of the BB&B team can arrange to collect them from you!

For more information on how we can help you or someone you know please send us a message via our facebook page or drop us an email at contactus@ birthbabybeyond.org.uk To nominate a charity, social enterprise or voluntary community organisation to for our next issue please e-mail editor@familiesglasgow. co.uk with subject “community corner” and include up-to-date contact details – don’t forget to include your reason for nominating this organisation!

LANGUAGE CENTRE & CHILDREN’S BOOKSHOP The Language Hub C.IC. 52 Keith Court, Glasgow, G11 6QW www.thelanguagehub.co.uk info@thelanguagehub.co.uk t: 0141 258 2700 m: 07505 5144 476 Families Glasgow

May/June 2017

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Article 50

Which generation is ‘shaping a brighter future’?

Discover the world of farming On Sunday 11th June 2017 hundreds of farms across the UK will throw open their gates to welcome the public and showcase the fascinating world of farming. As well as being a fun and informative day out for all the family, LEAF Open Farm Sunday also gives visitors the opportunity to see first-hand all that farmers do and the impact their work has on all our lives.

Since the first Open Farm Sunday in 2006 over 1.8m people have visited a LEAF Open Farm Sunday event. This year, farms across the country, from Cornwall to Orkney, will provide young and old with an opportunity to see farming in action and learn more about the work farmers are so proud to do.

The mostly free events will offer a range of activities from tractor trailer rides, farm walks and bug hunts, to feeding lambs, sheep shearing and milking demonstrations. The technology and science behind farming and food production will also be a focus; providing visitors with a fascinating insight into the world of farming.

So circle the date in your diary, visit www.farmsunday.org to find your local open farm, pull on your wellies and get set to discover the world of farming!

West End Festival “Big Sunday” 2017 Big Sunday is a fun day out with something for everyone. Get yourself to Kelvingrove Park to join the fun. Sit back and enjoy live music on two stages, enjoy a stroll through the park and be entertained with a variety of street theatre and dance to the rhythms of the ever-popular Samba bands. There will be an exciting skateboard competition organised by Clan Skates, as well as many displays including Glasgow Scouts, a kids’ zone, fabulous funfair, a crafts and local produce market and lots of food and drink to sample.

The event runs from 1pm to 7 pm on Sunday the 11th June.

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May/June 2017

Families Glasgow

Responding to the triggering of Article 50, Children in Scotland Chief Executive Jackie Brock said: “Children in Scotland believes the voices of children and young people must be central in shaping our future relationship with Europe, whatever form it takes.

Mrs May spoke about leaving the EU representing ‘this generation’s chance to shape a brighter future’. In this context it is important to ask which generation she refers to, given that 71% of 18-24 year-olds in the UK voted to Remain in last year’s referendum and it is young people who will be most exposed to Brexit’s impact.

There is compelling evidence that withdrawal from the EU could have a punitive effect on children. EU funding has brought tangible benefits to children and young people living in Scotland, and more widely across the UK. One example is the European Structural Funds programme, which saw an estimated £350 million being distributed across Scotland to strengthen 800 projects that improved employment and training opportunities for young people, and supported children and young people with mental health problems, children affected by substance abuse problems, and children involved in the juvenile justice system.

Access to this type of funding, which directly benefits children, will be lost as a result of Brexit.

Finally, it is important to remember that our relationship with Europe has not been a 'one-way street': Scotland and the other UK nations have led the way in areas of child policy – particularly child protection – that have been emulated by many other European nations. We are dismayed by the threat Brexit poses to our ability to share with the EU the best, evidence-led approaches to supporting better childhoods.

If Theresa May is serious about building ‘relationships with old friends and new allies around the world’ then she should move to discredit the toxic and chauvinistic rhetoric surrounding Brexit in her party and in the UK media.

It contradicts the consensus-building spirit she aspires to, risks further damaging our standing in Europe, and excludes the children and young people who must be our priority.”

Children in Scotland is the collective voice for children, young people and families in Scotland, and organisations and businesses that have a significant positive impact on children’s lives.

We are an influencing and membership organisation, comprised of representatives from the voluntary, public and private sectors. www.childreninscotland.org.uk

Drive to make nappy sacks safer after 16 deaths St Thomas’ Primary School, Neilston

Brake launches competition Brake, the road safety charity, has launched a brand new project for primary schools to help children spread important road safety messages in their community.

Brake’s road safety poster competition, sponsored by Co-op Insurance, is a fun, new project that aims to inspire and engage children, aged 4-11, about the need for drivers to slow down so kids can walk and cycle to school safely.

The competition, supported by the National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) and National Police Chiefs’ Council (NPCC), will see winning designs from two age categories (4-7, and 7-11) turned into professional banners that will go on display outside schools or in the local community. Children can also win prizes worth hundreds of pounds for themselves and their school.

To help teachers and road safety professionals inspire pupils, Brake has produced a series of free resources, including assembly and workshop presentations that they can deliver to either the whole school or a single class on a day of their choice. Children can then create a poster about the dangers of adults speeding something that puts kids' lives at risk every single day.

The competition can be run on a day of the school’s choice, but entries need to be submitted to Brake by Friday 30 June 2017.

For more information and to register your school visit www. brake.org.uk/postercomp

Language Hub’s May Open Day

We're Recruiting!

Do you know anyone who is studying business management or marketing? Families Glasgow is looking for a summer intern to learn about the business and earn some money.

Candidates with sales experience also considered.

For more information contact Susanne@familiesglasgow.co.uk

Annual Open Day at the hub in May! Have you ever wanted to learn a foreign language? Have you ever thought about your child learning another language? Does your child enjoy reading? Or have you always wanted to find a place where you could just pop in for a hot drink and a chat while your little one plays? Well, The Language Hub offers just this and more. Have more questions? Then why not go along to their open day in May? There will be lots of activities for children while you can find out more about the things they do: Sunday, 21.5.17, 12:0014:00, free entry.

The Language Hub children’s bookshop and language centre, 52 Keith Court, G11 6QW, 0141 258 2700 or 07505 144 476 www.thelanguagehub.co.uk

Family safety charity RoSPA is pushing for greater awareness of the danger posed by nappy sacks.

RoSPA is aware of at least 16 children who have died after suffocating or choking on the flimsy plastic bags, which are used for disposal of soiled nappies. All were aged under 12 months.

Sheila Merrill, public health adviser for RoSPA, said: “Where these deaths have occurred, typically the sacks have been stored within the baby’s reach, close to the baby’s cot, including under the mattress, usually for convenience. The parents clearly have not made any association between the nappy sacks and any sort of risk from suffocation or choking.

“We can change this with adequate education and awareness, but we also want manufacturers to consider safety approaches such as making them unscented, producing them on a roll rather than as individual sheets, or new packaging.”

For more information on nappy sack safety, see www.rospa.com/campaigns-fundraising/current/nappy-sack

Somerset Nursery Play on Pedals The Play on Pedals Programme has proved to be a huge hit with the children at Somerset Nursery in the West End of Glasgow. The program aims to have pre-school children confidently riding bicycles before starting school and the nursery was delighted to offer this experience to their preschool children. They invested in balance bikes for the children to practice their knowledge and skills each day in the gardens and in Kelvingrove Park.

To celebrate the success of the Play on Pedals the children were invited to The Bike Station, Glasgow, where they took part in arts and crafts activities and had the opportunity to show off their riding and balance skills.

The staff are looking forward to Spring 2017 when the next group of excited pre school children will enjoy Play on Pedals, before their journey to ‘big school’ in August 2017.

Families Glasgow

May/June 2017

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Focus on…picking your own fruit and meeting animals!

Forest School Benefits

R

esearch now backs up what forest school practitioners have known all along – that children and young people are stimulated by the outdoors and typically experience, over time, an increase in their self belief, confidence, learning capacity, enthusiasm, communication and problem-solving skills and emotional well-being.

T

here’s nothing sweeter than a sun-ripened strawberry, straight from the plant. Here are three places close enough for a day-trip from Glasgow where you can pick strawberries (and other fruit and veg) for yourself.

Also below are listed some places where you can see, meet and sometimes feed animals of the farm and exotic variety.

Be healthy

East Yonderton Farm

Is a family run Renfrewshire soft fruit farm near Inchinnan, just beside Glasgow Airport. During the fruit season the farm is open daily for picking your own fruit, and fruit can also be ordered ready picked for collection on weekdays. The farm also grows Vegetables and Potatoes which are available most of the year. Open Monday to Friday 10am till 8pm, Saturday & Sunday 9am till 5pm. No charge to enter, just pay for what you pick. Strawberry picking starts late June. They also have Gooseberries, Blackberries, Black- and Redcurrants, Peas, Broccoli and Potatoes. www.eastyondertonfarm.co.uk

Lamont City Farm

Lamont City Farm is a vibrant community and animal welfare project located in Erskine, Renfrewshire. At Lamont Farm, you can meet a wide variety of animals, including ducks, hens, horses and goats. They also have a reptile room with some special reptiles for you to come and meet! Open Mon/Wed/ Thu/ Sat/ Sun: 10.30am-4.30pm, Tue/ Fri: 9.30am-4pm. FREE (donations gratefully received) www.lamontfarm.org.uk

Tollcross Children’s Farm

Briarlands Farm

Near Blair Drummond Safari Park, has lots of outdoor activities as well as a tearoom and indoor play for pre-schoolers. Children 3-16yrs £7.50, adults £5.50, family pass for four (at least one adult) £24.50 Indoor craft activities are £2.50 extra. Animal feed is available for 50p. The PYO strawberry season usually lasts from mid-June to mid-August and daily opening times are from 10:00AM – 4:30PM. There is no entry fee to pick strawberries. briarlandsfarm.co.uk

Tollcross Children’s Farm and Visitor Centre is a favourite family destination in Glasgow. The farm provides the ideal opportunity for inner city children to learn more about country life. It is home to a wide variety of animals, from the usual farmyard favourites such as sheep, pigs and chicken to the more unusual, such as the colourful lovebirds and the llama. Open Saturday – Thursday: 10.00am – 3.30pm, Friday: 10.00am – 3.00pm - FREE

Craigie’s Farm Deli and Cafe

Escape to the countryside for the day to explore the 1950s working farm and award-winning museum. Visit the farm at Wester Kittochside for seasonal agricultural demonstrations with the animals and crops. You’ll always find plenty of life on the farm: Aberdeen Angus cattle, Tamworth pigs, Ayrshire cows, black-faced sheep and Clydesdale horses, Mairi and Anna. Open daily: 10:00-17:00, Adult: £7, Child: £4 (under 5 free), www.nms.ac.uk/national-museum-of-rural-life/

Generations of kids and their parents have made a visit to West Craigie, located between South Queensferry and Edinburgh, to pick their own fruit as part of their summer calendar.

How does it work? It’s easy: they provide you with a basket and direct you to the best field. You pick your fruit, then weigh it and pay. Simple as that!

PYO strawberries start at the end of June and go on into August. Raspberries start mid-July till mid-August. They also have gooseberries, blackcurrants, redcurrants, Victoria plums, and big, beautiful sunflowers. There’s plenty to discover too hearing a hen cluck, meeting a little lamb, or seeing the pigs.

For the more adventurous, they can become a Nature Detective on the special trail or go for a bike ride on lanes, there is lots of open-air farm fun to enjoy. Outside the Cafe there is a small kids area. www.craigies.co.uk

Calderglen Country Park

Calderglen Country Park is a four-star tourist attraction which has a Zoo and Tropical Conservatory, Ornamental Gardens, Nature Trails and Walks, Courtyard Cafe, Toddlers' Play Area and Adventure Play Area. Open every day 10:00am-5:30pm (last entry 5:00pm). Free except zoo and tropical conservatory: Adults - £1.40, Children - 50p, Under 3's - Free www.slleisureandculture.co.uk/info/113/calderglen_country_park

National Museum of Rural Life

At Forest School children are physically active a lot of the time and their stamina improves as they go through their Forest School sessions. Their experience can also help to lead to the development of healthier lifestyles as children ask parents to take them on trips to woodlands and green spaces outside of school times. As the children gain confidence and improve their self-esteem this can impact on their emotional and mental well-being.

Stay safe

The ‘wild’, and yet controlled, safe environment of Forest School ensures that children taking part naturally learn to assess risk and are encouraged to make sensible and informed decisions about how to deal with unfamiliar and unpredictable situations (such as exploring or climbing trees, using tools to build shelters and dens). Much of the learning for a child comes as a result of the opportunities they have for testing their own abilities in a real life context.

Enjoy and achieve

Forest School sets learning in a different context for children where they can undertake a range of practical activities and carry out small achievable tasks. At Forest School children can develop their team working skills and also learn to become more independent. Those who are unfamiliar with woodlands and green spaces can become confident in using them and this can form the basis of a life-long relationship with natural spaces.

Ardardan Nursery & Tearoom

Full or Half Day Tues - Thurs 8.45 - 6 Mon and Fri 12 - 6

Set in a Restored Walled Garden on the banks of the River Clyde, Cardross, enjoy everything Ardardan Estate has to offer: a treasure trove of foodie goodies, homemade Tearoom Treats, Woodland Walk to wander, animals to meet and a Garden Nursery. FREE, craft activities may cost extra if on. www.ardardan.co.uk

Pollock Park

The glasshouse in Pollok park is home to a coi carp pool as well as a reptile tunnel. Also includes a small soft play area for toddlers and café.

Kibble Palace, Botanics

Always a popular spot to watch the coi carp.

Outdoor Nursery

For 3-5 year olds At Greenbank Gardens, Clarkston Collection Service from Local Authority Nurseries Available Free introductory session

AS SEEN ON

MAKE YOUR CHILD’S DEVELOPMENT MORE FUN!

TRY RUGBYTOTS Our dynamic weekly play sessions enable boys and girls aged 2–7 to develop their social and physical skills in a fun, positive environment.

For more details, just call or email:

0345 313 3252 kirsty@rugbytots.co.uk

The world’s favourite rugby play programme

May/June 2017

Birthday Party Birthd T Theme!

www.bricks4kidz.co.uk/glasgow

rugbytots.co.uk

6

s 4 Kidz Brick Pick yourr

Families Glasgow

LEGO® is a registered trademark of the LEGO® Group of companies which does not sponsor, authorize or endorse these programs.

Creative Learning Corporation common shares are listed on OTCBB under the ticker symbol CLCN. © 2013 Bricks 4 Kidz

For more information visit www.greenbankwoodland.co.uk or call Karen on 07913 272717

Make a positive contribution

Forest School helps children to develop their confidence. As they become familiar with Forest School they can take their new-found confidence into school and into other areas of their lives. Forest School can be particularly effective for children who do not do well in the classroom environment. Children learn to solve problems and be creative and imaginative at Forest School thus showing enterprising behaviour.

Forest School Training (FSTC), www.forestschooltraining.co.uk, 2011

Greenbank Woodland Play Karen Corrie has been running Greenbank Woodland Play for just over 2 years. She is NNEB qualified, Level 2 Forest School qualified and has many years childcare experience. And as a mum of 3 boys she appreciates what the great outdoors can do for children. Greenbank Woodland Play has a great team who love to offer Forest School sessions for 3-5 year olds and all the advantages that it brings. StaynPlay the parent and child group allows parent and children of all ages to experience the joy of outdoor play, with the added advantage of coffee and cake!

Collection Service

The unique collection service allows parents the option of combining traditional indoor nursery with the freedom of our outdoor nursery. They will collect (or in some cases drop off) children to their local authority place, allowing parents to give their children the best of both worlds.

StaynPlay

This Outdoor Parent and Child group (suitable for children from walking to 5 years) runs all year round on Monday and Friday mornings. Messy outdoor fun with sand, mud, chalk and water, with opportunities to run, climb, and dig and burn off excess energy out in the fresh air. Healthy snacks are provided for the children and coffee and cake for the adults.

Summer Camps

Greenbank Woodland Play will be running two weeks of Summer Camps and Holiday StaynPlay from the 24th July to 4th August, so when the kids need something to do in those dreaded long summer holidays, this is the perfect solution.

For more information and booking details contact them on www.greenbankwoodland.co.uk or on greenbankwoodlandplay@gmail.com.

There are also Facebook pages for both.

Families Glasgow

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Parent 2 Parent

M

y name is Jacqueline, recently married to my partner of 20 years Mark and we have a 4-year-old daughter called Beau. I'm currently self employed, running two very different businesses: one being a yoga teacher (Lifelong Yoga), taking a Monday evening class for beginners (please come along if you are interested) and the other a dog walker/boarder. My business is Muddy Puddles Dog Walking Service. If you need your best doggy pal walked or taken care of, please call me on 07944299145. After being made redundant in 2015, I decided to take the opportunity to do something I love.

Dogs are my first love and fill me with joy, so I feel extremely blessed earning an income whilst spending the day with my best furry buddies. Yoga has been a love of mine for over 20 years and it's a privilege to now teach it to others.

Why do you like living where you do?

We live in the Westend of Glasgow and love it for its cultural diversity. We live in the Kirklee area, which is slightly out of the hustle and bustle but walking distance to all the cafes, restaurants and museums the West End has to offer. We are also very close to the Botanic Gardens and River Kelvin walkway which is perfect for some outdoor fun with the family and dogs.

Favourite night out with the kids

Favourite shop

Parenting pet hates

I'm not really a shopper, but love a visit to IJ Mellis Cheesemongers on Great Western Road.

Favourite Park

Kelvingrove Park. It's full of life with lovely walks and close to family friendly restaurants if the notion takes us.

Favourite children’s club/class

First Steps to Music is amazing and Beau loves it. www.firststepstomusic.co.uk

Favourite day out

A trip to loch Loch Lomond on a sunny day (hot or cold) then fish and chips on the way home.

Favourite child friendly restaurant

Cottiers is a great family friendly place and has ample outdoor space for our little one to play, and she often makes new friends. It's dog friendly too.

Our Beau is sleeping for 7.30pm so we don't really get nights out with her. Fave afternoon is the cinema, then lunch.

No parent should be without Willing overnight babysitters.

People parking in parent and child parking spaces and parents glued to their mobile phones whilst out with their child…worse still…seeing a whole family, parent and child with eyes glued to a device. Talk to each other please.

Most embarrassing moment

Going to the loo in the doctors’ surgery located right at reception, thinking that I'd locked the door and some poor soul opened the door on me whilst attempting to provide a urine sample. The reception area was unfortunately busier than usual and everyone got a tad more than they bargained for.

Favourite family holiday spot

Marbella, Spain. It’s a vibrant family orientated holiday spot with amazing food.

Most successful recipe/food

Lamb curry www.bbcgoodfood.com/recipes/home-style-lamb-curry

We're off on our family holiday!

by Beverley Courtney

Y

ou’ve chosen a dog to be your family companion, and to get you all out and about enjoying the open air. So when it comes to the high point of your family time together - the annual holiday - it’s a shame to park young Fido in kennels with a load of strangers instead of him enjoying the fun with you!

I just spent a few days at the beach with my dogs. There was miles of space to walk them, and they were so exhausted by the adventure and the sea air that they slept like logs while I was free to do things without them.

There are plenty of dog-friendly resources on the internet to help you find the perfect holiday destination. There are hotels, bed and breakfasts, holiday homes, boating holidays, caravan and campsites. This will need a bit of advance planning first time ‘round, but will soon become easy - and the whole family can look forward to holidays together.

What to take?

Bringing your favourite pups to life!

PAW Patrol Live! “Race to the Rescue,” shows that “No job is too big, no pup is too small!” Nick Jr.’s phenomenally popular property produced by Spin Master Entertainment is coming to The SEC Armadillo. The show shares lessons for all ages about citizenship, social skills and problem solving as the characters each use their unique skills and teamwork.

When Mayor Goodway goes missing during the day of the Great Adventure Bay Race, the pups come to the rescue.

Families can join Ryder, Chase, Marshall, Rocky, Rubble, Zuma, Skye and Everest for the show’s first live tour. The show is set to engage audiences with Bunraku puppetry, an innovative costuming approach that brings the PAW Patrol characters to life on stage with their vehicles and packs.

“Using Bunraku, puppetry elements are built into costumes worn by real actors to create a wonderful combination of lifesize pups and to make a stronger connection with the audience,” says Jim Waters, producer, VStar Entertainment Group.

The performance features music, dance and an original script as well as classic theatrical scenery along with a hightech video wall that visually transports families to PAW Patrol locations.

Tickets Now on Sale at www.sec.co.uk / 0844 395 4000

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May/June 2017

Families Glasgow

You’ll need to pack your dog’s things along with all the family’s holiday necessities. His lead, collar, harness if you use one, bedding, sufficient of his usual food (no sudden diet changes), his bowl, waterbowl for the car, poo-bags, toys, towel, brush, and if possible his crate.

A crate is invaluable for ensuring he can’t a) have a moment of forgetfulness on the holiday cottage carpet when you’re not paying attention, or b) get let out of your room when you’re at dinner by a staff-member who doesn’t take care. (At least it will liven up the hotel dining room when your dog races in looking for you!)

Allow time for stop-offs every couple of hours on the journey - when you take your break from driving - and choose places in advance that will be suitable for him to have a run.

If you will be leaving him in a crate in your room while you visit the dining room you’ll have to accustom him to being left alone in the months leading up to the trip. Gradually build up from one minute. If you haven't a crate, the bathroom is a good place to park your dog - but practice this at home first.

Is your dog a party-pooper?

Keep in mind that adult dogs do not necessarily want to socialise outside their immediate family group. So your dog may not wish to mix with any other holidaying dogs where you’re staying. This is perfectly normal and entirely his choice.

So make sure he isn’t pestered with unwanted advances, perhaps from young dogs or pups. (On the other hand he may view the entire trip as a party!)

You’ll need to check up on which beaches and country areas are open to dogs, and at what times of year. While dogs’ freedom is being limited increasingly in the UK, there are still plenty of places where they can run free. You may need to hunt for these in the high season.

Forests, moors, and beaches are great places for dogs to visit - of course you must always observe the Countryside Code and be aware of livestock and wildlife.

Travel further afield!

Even if you choose to travel abroad there are many places you can take your dog. Check with the relevant government department and get the precise protocol for vaccination and pest control from your vet. Research the dog laws for your chosen place so you don’t inadvertently break any. This would include where dogs are allowed to be off-lead. And check out hazards which you don't get at home, like snakes, perhaps, or extreme heat.

Many people feel miserable at the thought of leaving their dog behind for holidays. And they’re so glad when they realise they can all enjoy their family time together.

Exploring a new area with your dog is a joyful experience and will transform your holiday - in the best possible way!

For more tips and articles to make life with your Brilliant Family Dog perfect, head over to www.brilliantfamilydog.com

About the Author Beverley Courtney, author of the Amazon Bestseller “Calm Down! Step-by-step to a Relaxed, Calm and Brilliant Family Dog”(one of the www.brilliantfamilydog.com Essential Skills for a Brilliant Family Dog), lives in Worcestershire with her four dogs, cat, hens and many tropical fish. She works with puppies and “growly” dogs at her force-free school Good for Dogs, always looking to build the bond between dog and owner. Get your free series of Top Tips for Turning Your Wild Puppy into a Brilliant Family Dog - a step-bystep guide to changing the things you don’t like about your dog to the things you do like.

Families Glasgow

May/June 2017

9

7 Ways to Make Homework Fun! ‘Homework? Boooring!’ Is this a regular moan in your house?

We’ve all been there! We want our children to progress and do well at school but after a long day, many youngsters will feel reluctant to sit down to get on with their homework - and no amount of nagging seems to help!

We’ve teamed up with the experts at Explore Learning to bring you seven awesome ways to make homework ACTUALLY fun.

6. Be positive

When should you leave your child home alone?

7. Make it visual

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Always be upbeat about school and homework and give your child bags of encouragement. Reinforce how well they are doing, write them inspiring messages and chat to family members about your child’s achievements

If your child feels overwhelmed by everything they have to do, visually being able to see their progress will help. Make a list or chart on a white board or special planner and get them to cross each task off as it is completed. Some new pens and exciting stationary will also keep them happy!

What the law says

BOOK YOUR

1. Set up a fun and creative space

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Having a special place to do work, decorated in personalised decor, can really help children to focus. Avoid busy areas and make sure there is no other distractions, like technology or televisions. Younger children may appreciate their own artwork hung on the walls, while older children may prefer more desk space and personalised planners, so they can organise their work.

Keep homework battles at bay by using incentives to keep your child on track. Younger children may be motivated by sticker charts, where they can pick a reward once it is full, whilst older kids may be persuaded to crack on with their work with the promise of time on the iPad. Make sure your child understands the value of developing good homework habits, rather than just receiving a reward!

Leaving a child alone in the car

Children should never be left alone in the car. Stranger danger is an ever present issue for young children - however well you teach them, young children can act quite differently when something tempting is apparently on offer. Leaving a toddler in the car runs the risk of them wandering off into traffic or a busy car park. And no child is safe from the risk of another car crashing into yours, even when your car is stationary.

3. Find a study buddy

Hold a homework playdate where your child and one of their friends do their homework together. Set some rules ahead of time and reward them afterwards with an activity of their choice. Or join your child yourself and accomplish some work of your own – be it catching up on emails, paying bills or planning a holiday. Win-win!

Leaving your child home alone

4. Turn it into a game

Turn learning into a fun game. For spellings, you could use flashcards or writing words in foam, or for maths, you could use sweets like Smarties to help visualise numbers. When they get a right answer, they get to eat some!

5. Get outside

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Families Glasgow

The Government’s advice is to follow NSPCC guidelines, although you are advised never to leave your child alone when they are ‘at risk’ and you may be prosecuted for neglect if you leave an unsupervised child ‘in a manner likely to cause unnecessary suffering or injury to health.’

The NSPCC guidelines state that babies, toddlers and young children should never, under any circumstances, be left alone and that children under the age of 12 are rarely mature enough to cope with an emergency. Therefore they should not be left alone in the house for any length of time. Children under 16 should not be left alone overnight.

2. Magical motivators

If the weather is good, why not let your child do their homework outside? The fresh air will help them concentrate after being inside a stuffy classroom all day. Let them have a short break in between exercises, like a game of Frisbee or football.

ver the past few years there has been huge debate around when children should be left home alone.

Knowing when your growing child is responsible enough to be left alone, even for a short time, can be difficult and there is no law that governs when this might be appropriate. For parents, in the absence of any hard and fast rules, knowing when it’s the right time to allow your children more responsibility can be tricky.

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This is far trickier to navigate as growing children begin to want their independence from their parents. The important thing to remember, in the absence of a clear legal framework, is your child’s wishes. If they simply can’t cope with being left alone then you’ll need to make other arrangements. But when they reach the age of 12, you could experiment with leaving them for a short amount of time. If you do, make sure you’ve thoroughly discussed the kind of behaviour you expect from them - like not boiling a kettle - and that they know exactly what to do if there’s a problem. Take your mobile and make sure they have the number, plus a list of trusted adults to contact if they can’t reach you. If you have more than one child, make sure they’re engaged in a calm activity, like watching TV or doing homework so squabbles and problems are less likely to occur.

Are they ready to be in charge?

Some children actively enjoy showing how grown up they are, but it’s wise to run through a few scenarios to reassure yourself how they might genuinely cope in an emergency. Try asking them what they’d do in a power cut, or if the bathroom flooded. What if they’re hungry or a stranger knocks at the door? Have the conversations for a few minutes at a time, to try and gauge how they’d react. Remember, you don’t have to leave them alone at home if you don’t want to, but sometimes the situation is unavoidable so you’ll need to know how they might cope. By having these conversations, you can work towards a plan of action if you do need to leave your child in the house alone.

Make a checklist

If you and your child decide that they’re responsible enough to be left home alone, perhaps after school while you’re still at work, then work together on a checklist that covers both your concerns.

• Double check that they’re happy to be left alone: it may be that they’d feel happier if a neighbour looked in on them from time to time.

• Set some ground rules: your child may be as worried as you are about the responsibility of being left in charge.

• Agree what’s safe and not safe to do: you might be happy for them to visit a friend or have a friend to visit.

• Be clear that mentioning you’re home alone on social media is not a cool idea.

• Let them know when you’ll be home: leave a number where you can be contacted, and let them know you’ll inform them if you’re delayed in any way.

• Check in every now and again: give them a call to check that they’re OK. • Put potentially dangerous objects out of harm’s way before you leave.

Knowing when the right time to leave your child alone is never easy, but through planning and good communication you can both enjoy peace of mind.

For more information about keeping your child safe visit:

www.familiesonline.co.uk/wellbeing Families Glasgow

May/June 2017

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What’s On - Regular Events Wee Weans Workshop

Various locations and times| pre 5yrs | £5/£3(sibling) Dennistoun Armadale Churchevery Monday, 1-2pm Sandyhills Parish Church-every Tuesday, 1-2pm St Margaret's Church, Newlandsevery Saturday, 2-3pm Messy play involving a variety of multi-sensory play activities, which provides an opportunity to play and bond with your wee one in a creative and friendly environment. Book via Facebook or drop in.

Family Resources

Every Saturday to 19 Feb | 10am – 4pm | FREE Scotland Street School Museum, 225 Scotland Street, Glasgow, Strathclyde, G5 8QB, 0141 287 0500 www.glasgowlife.org.uk/ museums/scotland-street Have fun exploring the venue with our self-led trails while testing your knowledge about Charles Rennie Mackintosh and this fabulous school. Ask a member of our team at the enquiry desk for help and to point you in the right direction!

Secret Sunday Cinema

Sundays| 11.30am and 2pm | FREE Scotland Street School Museum, 225 Scotland Street, Glasgow, Strathclyde, G5 8QB, 0141 287 0500 www.glasgowlife.org.uk/ museums/scotland-street Weekly film showings.

Imagine Lab

6.30pm | 4yrs+ | £3-8 Rollerstop Roller Disco, 139 Middlesex Street, Glasgow, Every Monday during term | Glasgow City, G41 1EE, 5-6.30pm | S1-S3 | FREE www.rollerstop.co.uk/timetable Every Monday during term | It’s Roller Disco time, get your 3.30-5pm | P4-P7 | FREE skates on and come for spin.

Every Monday during term | Once you’ve found your balance 3.30-4.30pm | P1-P3 | FREE join in with the group games Every Tuesday during term | and activities. Suitable for 3.30-4.30pm | P1-P3 | FREE anybody age 4+ of any skating The Village Storytelling Centre, 183 Meiklerig Crescent, Glasgow, ability. Skate hire available or bring your own. Need a few G53 5NA, 0141 8823025 tips to get you rolling? No www.villagestorytelling.org.uk Hold on to your hats everybody problem, just ask one of the skate marshals. Online booking because The Village's young available until the night before people's storytelling group is the event. Tickets also available back! Free to local children. on the door sold first come, first Spaces are limited, please served. contact us to book.

Wee Kidders

Saturday Art Club

Every Saturday | 10.30 – 12.30pm | 3-12yrs | FREE Gallery of Modern Art, Royal Exchange Square, Glasgow, Strathclyde, G1 3AH, 0141 229 1996 Get creative and messy at these popular art sessions. If you’re waiting to participate, visit our CREATE Space, full of inspiring art activities and trails.

Saturday Song and Story Circle

Every other Saturday and Sunday from 14 Jan to 11 Feb | 11.45-12.30 | 3-6yrs | FREE Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum, Argyle Street, Glasgow, Strathclyde, G3 8AG, 0141 276 9500 Songs and stories for 3-6 year olds but all the family are welcome.

Every Tuesday | 10-11am | pre-5s | FREE The Village Storytelling Centre, 183 Meiklerig Crescent, Glasgow, G53 5NA, 0141 8823025 www.villagestorytelling.org.uk Through interactive storytelling and play, pre-5s and their adults can cook up fantastic fictions and discover new worlds together. These sessions are informal and friendly and a great environment for little ones developing early speaking and listening skills.

Tweeting Toddlers with the RSPB

Toddler Time

NCT West End Coffee Group

Every Friday | 11.30am – 12.30pm | 1-3yrs | FREE Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum, Argyle Street, Glasgow, Strathclyde, G3 8AG, 0141 276 9500 Join us for fun in the galleries with songs, rhymes and stories.

Sessions take inspiration from artworks and animals on display.

Storytelling

Every Tuesday | 11.30am – 12pm | FREE Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum, Argyle Street, Glasgow, Strathclyde, G3 8AG, 0141 276 9500 Join the RSPB's exciting group for toddlers and carers with animal-themed songs, stories and activities! Meet on the Glasgow Map in Scotland’s Wildlife Gallery, although we may explore outside!

Every 1st and 3rd Thursday of the month | 10.30am - 12 noon | FREE The Coffee Pod, 40-42 Woodlands Road, Glasgow, Lanarkshire, G3 6UR, 01413529800 www.nct.org.uk/branches/glasgow An informal get together for parents with bumps or babies free to attend and we welcome everyone.

Saturdays 11am–12pm, 2–3pm | pre 5’s | FREE St Mungo Museum of Religious Off-Peak Family Roller Life and Art, 2 Castle Street, Discos Glasgow, G4 0RH, 0141 2761625 Every Tuesday 12-2pm, 5.30http://www.glasgowlife.org.uk 7.30pm and Thursday 4.30Weekly workshops for the family.

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What’s On Catan, Pandemic, and Ticket to Ride- our team at Dice Roll are always willing to walk you through it!

Tiny Tales / Tall Tales

Every Saturday | 10.30 / 11.30 | £5 Tron Theatre , 63 Trongate, Glasgow, G1 5HB, 0141 552 4267 http://www.tron.co.uk Tiny Tales are fun-filled storytelling sessions, brought to life with props, movement, music, percussion and creative play and all carefully designed to stimulate your little one’s senses. Workshops help with physical, social, emotional and language development while encouraging imaginations to Kids Play Parent & flourish. Best of all you get to join in too! All workshops Toddler require parent/child Saturdays 11am-12pm | 2-4yrs | participation, allowing you to FREE share the experience and give Barras Art & Design Centre, 54 Calton Entry, Glasgow, G40 2SB, you a host of storytelling ideas to try out at home. Tiny Tales http://wwwbaadglasgow.com at 10.30 suitable for babies Come along on Saturdays to Barras Art & Design Centre just and crawlers, Tall Tales at 11.30 suitable for wee ones walking next to Barras Market for some free family fun. Each week over independently up to 3yrs.

1 hour we use a combination of storytelling, imaginative play Play on Pedals with props, sensory materials, Scotstoun Sports Complex, movement, rhyme, basic drama Outdoor Hall, 72 Danes Drive, games, crafts and more to have G14 9HD, 14/5, 28/5, 11/6, 25/6, fun and relax with other families 13.00-15.00 while entertaining the kids.

Drumchapel Sport Centre, 195 This is a family activity where Drumry Rd East, G15 8NS, every parents/carers take part in the Sunday 10.00-10.45 and 10.45fun.

11.30 Free Wheel North, Templeton Baby Breakfast at Loks Street, G40 1AT, 14/5, 28/5, 11/6, 25/6, 12.30-14.30 Tuesdays/Thursdays | 10amPlay on Pedals is a project 12noon | FREE/ £3.50 supported by players of Loks Bar and Kitchen, 16 People's Postcode Lottery, Newlandsfield Road, G43 2XU, getting preschool children 0141 632 5727 across Glasgow cycling before All parents and carers are they start school. Bikes and welcome to bring along baby instructors are provided, between 10am and 12noon to sessions are designed to allow play in our private and secure children to play on bikes but area in our function suite with also gain some instruction and toys and soft mats while you enjoy a lovely coffee and pastry support to get them pedalling.

Please keep an eye on the for only £2.30 (full breakfast menu also available.) Jo Jingles Facebook page for updates on dates, times and locations. joins us every Tuesday, £3.50 entrance for Jo Jingles from 10.15am and complimentary tea Meet the Piper Tours and coffee!

Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Monday | 11am and 2pm (11am only on Sat) | £4.50 adult, £2.50 Dice Roll Café Every second Sunday | from 1pm child National Piping Centre, 30-34 | £2 | McPhater Street, Glasgow, G4 The CCA, 350 Sauchiehall 0HW, 0141 353 0220 Street, G2 3HW, 01413524900 http://www.thepipingcentre.

A pop-up board games café, co.uk/ offering Saramago's great Join piper, Amy, to tour the menu and a great collection Museum of Piping and then of classic and modern board you can Try the Bagpipes for games. Play any game, allyourself! Learn more about day for just £2 each, from our Scotland's National Instrument, extensive collection. Re-visit a few classics from your childhood and then get hands on with a short lesson where you can like Hungry Hippos, Buckeroo! try out this most Scottish of or Operation. Keep your mind symbols. agile with timeless games like Chess, Scrabble or Risk! Or be adventurous and try some lessknown classic titles of modern gaming including Settlers of

Mon 1 May RSPB Family Fun Day 11.00-15.00 drop in | £5 (adults free) RSPB Scotland Loch Lomond, Gartocharn Bring the whole family along for nature adventures and wildlife crafts. Go on a minibeast safari, try out frog hunting and even make a bug B&B to take home.

No booking necessary. For more information and where to find us contact loch. lomond@rspb.org.uk or call 01389830670.

3-22 May Travels with My Aunt 14.30 & 19.00 | £12.50 - £22.50 Citizens Theatre & Tag Office, 119 Gorbals Street, Glasgow, Lanarkshire, G5 9DS, 01414290022 www. citz.co.uk When retired bank manager Henry Pulling meets his long-lost Aunt Augusta at his mother’s funeral, he has no idea of the whirlwind of exotic adventures that lie ahead of him. Coaxed into a life on the road, Henry’s new found travels take him across the world smuggling gold and falling in with drug dealers along the way as he unravels the unconventional details of his aunt’s past.

Thu 4 May WWE Live 18.30 | from £39 The SSE Hydro, Exhibition Way, Glasgow, G3 8YW, 0141 2483000 www.thesehydro. com WWE are returning with an incredible night of action packed entertainment! Due to public demand following the sold-out successes of last year, The SSE Hydro will now be the first live show of May’s Smack Down European Tour. Fans will be able to see all their favourite WWE Superstars live in action all under one roof!

Fri 5 May The Very Hungry Caterpillar 10.45am | pre 5s | £8 (grown ups free) Theatre Royal Glasgow, 282 Hope Street, Glasgow, G2 3QA, 08448717627 http:// www.atgtickets.com The Theatre Royal Glasgow runs regular delightful interactive workshops, inspired by favourite authors and much loved stories, for pre-5s

Sat 6 May The Paper Bag Princess 14.00 | £5.95 Scottish Mask & Puppet Centre, 8-10 Balcarres Avenue, Kelvindale, Glasgow, Lanarkshire, G12 0QF, 01413396185 www.maskandpuppet.co.uk Join Pavla's Puppets for the tale of 'The Paper Bag Princess'!

Princess Elizabeth is beautiful and rich and about to marry Prince Ronald - until a dragon destroys her castle, burns all her clothes and carries off the Prince. How could he! However, Elizabeth is no ordinary princess. She is off to get Ronald back!

12-28 May

Sat 13 May

Southside Fringe Various venues Programme has not been published at time of print. Look out for lots of entertainment heading to the southside on these dates! www.southsidefringe.co Sat 13 May

Albert’s Amazing Acrobatic Circus 14.00 | £5.95 Scottish Mask & Puppet Centre, 8-10 Balcarres Avenue, Kelvindale, Glasgow, Lanarkshire, G12 0QF, 01413396185 www.maskandpuppet.co.uk Witness bizarre feats of strength, death defying Sun 7 May stunts and brilliant balancing, Glasgow Kids Comedy Club but what will happen when 14.30 | £4 | 8-12yrs the main act disappears? A The Stand Comedy Club delightful show accompanied Glasgow, 333 Woodlands Road, by live accordion music, Glasgow, G3 6NG, 0141 2123389 singing and much more. www.thestand.co.uk The Stand Comedy Club Sat 13 May presents a live stand-up show for younger fans every month! Get your Hands Dirty, Kirkintilloch Sundays will never be the 10.30am – 12.00 | FREE same!

We’ve got three top comedians Merkland Local Nature Reserve Merkland Drive, Kirkintilloch at every show. There are no G66 3PG, 0141 956 6100 sweary words or adult stuff Wear your wellies and help just a load of jokes and fun. take care of Merkland Local Best for 8-12s. Sorry, no under Nature Reserve. Children 5s and all young comedy fans must be accompanied by an must be accompanied by an adult. Meet the Ranger in the adult.

Reserve car park off Merkland Drive, Kirkintilloch, G66 3SF. 12-14 May Merry-go-round At The Briggait 10am - 4pm | FREE Merry-go-round is back at the Briggait for a 3-day mega sale! They'll be bringing their entire stockroom and that means they are bringing you EVERYTHING from clothes, toys, books, shoes, blankets, feeding stuff, maternity, bouncers, playmats to moses baskets, cots, prams and anything else that parents, parents to be, grandparents, grandparents to be, babies, basically anyone who knows a child might need! They’ll have special crazy prices from 50p so if you are expecting, have a wee one, a niece, nephew, grandchild or know anyone that does, then you're not going to want to miss out!

Sat 13 May Mela On Your Doorstep 12.00-16.00 | FREE 9 Fountainwell Drive, G21 1RR Come along with family and friends and try Bhangra and Bollywood dance, sample international cookery, and be inspired by arts activities and storytelling from around the world. Enjoy performances by artists and local groups including dance, theatre and performance. ​​​​Preview the party of the summer!

Also at Netherton Community Centre, 358 Netherton Road, G13 1AX​on Sun 14 May 2-4pm

NCT Glasgow Spring Nearly New Sale 13.30 – 15.30 | £1 per adult Queens Park Baptist Church, 20 Balvicar Drive, Glasgow, G42 8QS, 0141 423 3962 The cost of kitting out your child for the first five years can run into thousands of pounds. The NCT Glasgow Nearly New Sale is the perfect solution, offering affordable essentials and accessories for you and your family, while fundraising to support other parents. You'll also be helping the environment by recycling your family's old belongings or buying pre-loved items.

Sun 14 May Bohemia Magical Secret Garden Craft Fair 11.00-16.00 Glasgow Botanic Gardens, 730 Great Western Road, Glasgow G12 0UE A wonderful mix of arts, crafts (Fairies, Magical Unicorns, Alice in Wonderland theme), and a few select holistic natural therapy stalls (Colour therapy, Crystals) awaits! Enjoy a lovely family day out in these beautiful surroundings. For those who love to browse and buy quality hand-made and still believe in magic!

Sun 14 May Funbox: Underwater Adventure 13.00 & 15.30 | £12 Paisley Town Hall, Abbey Close, Paisley PA1 1JF https://www.funbox.co.uk/ Anchors away with Anya, Gary and Kevin for their all new show, where they voyage beneath the waves to the bottom of the ocean. There’s somefin’ fishy going on in their latest singalong tail - the FUNBOX is locked and the gang will have to cause a splash because their magical keys are all tucked up in the sea bed. Can they find them all in time? Fluffy and Flossie the Funsters will be diving in to lend a hand and of course everyone’s favourite salty sea dog, Bonzo, will be joining the aquatic action - but has he packed his trunks, snorkel and rubber ring?

Find our full listings at familiesonline.co.uk Families Glasgow

May/June 2017

13

What’s On 19-21 May

Sat 20 May

Festival of Museums Various venues This year, Scotland’s museums and galleries have their biggest calendar of events ever planned for the Festival of Museums weekend from Friday 19 – Sunday 21 May, with a massive 130 events to choose from all across the country! From little ones to big kids, there’s sure to be something for everyone in our packed programme. Includes puppet animation, ship building, circus skills and more!

See the full programme at www.festivalofmuseums.co.uk Sat 20 May The Scottish Boat Race Festival 10am-6pm | Riverside Museum, 100 Pointhouse Place, Glasgow, Strathclyde, G3 8RS, 0141 287 4350 Watch Scotland's two oldest university boat clubs compete in the annual Scottish Boat Race Festival!

The Scottish Boat Race is the annual rowing competition held on the River Clyde, between ancient rivals the University of Glasgow and the University of Edinburgh.

Come down to the Tall Ship and Riverside Museum to see their Boat Clubs compete on the River Clyde for the coveted title of Scottish Boat Race champion 2017! Full entertainment programme: live music, gourmet refreshments, children’s entertainment including morning movie, sport activities, face painting and more!

Harry Potter and The Philosopher’s Stone - In Concert 19.30 | from £44 The SSE Hydro, Exhibition Way, Glasgow, G3 8YW, 0141 2483000 www.thesehydro.com Be swept away in a sparkling display of live music and film at Harry Potter and The Philosopher’s Stone - In Concert!

The Harry Potter film series is one of those once-in-a-lifetime cultural phenomena that continues to delight millions of fans around the world.

Audiences will now be able to relive the magic of Harry Potter and The Philosopher's Stone in high-definition on a giant screen while hearing a full live orchestra perform John Williams’ unforgettable score. Be swept away in this sparkling display of live music and film and follow the adventures of Harry and his friends once more.

What’s On Thu 25 May Night Light 12.00 & 14.00 | £5 The Beacon Studio, Beacon Arts Centre, Custom House Quay, Greenock, PA15 1HJ, 01475 723 723 beaconartscentre.co.uk The blackbird sings to welcome the night. The day slows and soon all are asleep.

All except one who cannot sleep.

A child, curious to know who looks after the night. And so begins a magical journey through the dark and beautiful night until the black bird sings again to welcome a new day. Part of the Edinburgh International Children’s Festival on tour.

26-29 May

Family Storytime: The Little Red Hen 10.30, 12.30 & 15.00 | £5, £15 for family ticket (x4), under 1’s free | 3-7yrs Scottish Youth Theatre, The Old Sheriff Court, 105 Brunswick Street, 22-27 May Glasgow, Lanarkshire, G1 1TF, Fantastic Mr Fox 01415523988 14.30 &19.00 | £14.00 - £30.50 www.scottishyouththeatre.org Theatre Royal Glasgow, 282 Who will help little red hen....

Hope Street, Glasgow, G2 plant the seeds, trim the 3QA, 08448717627 wheat, bake the bread, and www.atgtickets.com finally eat the bread?

“You know as well as I do: no- Will you join us on the farm one outfoxes a fox!” Boggis, and help the little red hen, Bunce and Bean, three greedy, learning all about the science smelly, horrid farmers hate the behind the tale as you do? cunning Mr Fox. The performance features Mr Fox is smart, clever and songs, stories and lots of rather fantastic, but he doesn’t joining in from you - our mini realise how determined the experts! farmers are to get revenge.

Can he hatch a plan to save his family and friends? Can they outrun the diggers and Sat 20 May outsmart the farmers, and can Rabbit shut up long enough Forest Fairy Festival not to give the game away?

13.00-15.30 | FREE Roald Dahl’s Fantastic Mr Fox Castlemilk Park, meet: Outside is family fun at its finest. A Castlemilk Stables, 59 Machrie juicy tale of greed, pride and Road, Castlemilk, G45 0AZ. the power of friendship, this Follow the forest fairy trail and world premiere and flagship discover a magical woodland production for the Roald world, with storytelling, arts Dahl centenary celebrations and crafts where you can promises a dahl-icious make your own fairy door or theatrical feast with live music fairy wand. The day will be and gloriumptious designs. magical and full of folklore and A wondercrump treat for the fun for the family. whole family!

27-28 May May West Festival £25 per day or £40 for the weekend, under 5s free Glasgow Green, Greendyke Street, Saltmarket, Glasgow, G1 5DB, 0141 5521142 A brand-new music festival is coming to Glasgow Green over the May Bank Holiday weekend... May West Festival!

The festival is organised by West Brewery and promises the best of Glasgow's food and drink scene alongside live music from the likes of The Stranglers and Public Service Broadcasting. The weekend line up also includes performances from Ward Thomas, Turin Brakes, Roddy Hart & The Lonesome Fire and Dreadzone. Familes are welcome at the event and under 5's will be admitted free of charge (but tickets must be obtained in advance).

Sun 28 May The Song of Fergus and Kate 14.00 | £5 The Beacon Studio, Beacon Arts Centre, Custom House Quay, Greenock, PA15 1HJ, 01475 723 723 beaconartscentre.co.uk “I’m a monster,” Fergus admitted, “You’d better go and let me be”. But the girl said “I’ve never met a monster, come out and let me see.” Do monsters really exist? If they do what do they look like? Are they covered from head to toe in slimy scales or matted fur?

Do they have teeth like sharks or claws of steel? Or do they look like you and me? The Song of Fergus and Kate is a brand new interactive story that uses storytelling, music and animation to encourage children to celebrate their differences.

2-25 Jun West End Festival Various locations www.westendfestival.co.uk/ The West End Festival returns with a packed programme.

Highlight for families is the Big Sunday on June 11th, 13.0019.00 in Kelvingrove Park.

Remember to mention you found it in Families!

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Sat 3 Jun The Magic Circus 14.00 | £5.95 | 3yrs+ Scottish Mask & Puppet Centre, 8-10 Balcarres Avenue, Kelvindale, Glasgow, Lanarkshire, G12 0QF, 01413396185 www.maskandpuppet.co.uk Roll up, roll up, Magic Den presents The Magic Circus, an exciting, fun, fast-paced and colourful magic show for all the family. Everyone from 3-93 is sure to love this interactive show, so get in early as you could be a star in Den’s Magic Circus.

Sat 3 Jun Helensburgh & Lomond Highland Games From 10.00 | £5 Adults, £2 Children, £12 Family Helensburgh Ruby Club, Ardencaple Ground Rhu Road Higher, Helensburgh G84 8YJ Run by local people on a voluntary basis, the Games are a spectacular event of traditional sport and dance going back to 1889.

Traditionally, Games linked to a Scottish Clan but Helensburgh is unique in being linked to two local Clans; the Colquhoun's and MacAulay's.

Included in the games are the Heavies competitions with events such as Tossing the Caber. There is also Highland Dancing and Athletics.

Sat 3 Jun Funbox - Highland Fling 15.30 | £11 Cumbernauld Theatre, Braehead Road, Glasgow G67 2BN, 01236 737235 www.cumbernauldtheatre.co.uk Join Funbox and Bonzo the dog as they take a trip to the Highlands of Scotland to battle midgies, become monarchs of the glen and hear the skirl of the bagpipes in their latest singalong adventure. Help open the Funbox, but which special key to use? You may be lucky enough to help on stage!

Wear something Tartan and join in the hoolie.

Sun 4 Jun Glasgow Kids Comedy Club 14.30 | £4 | 8-12yrs The Stand Comedy Club Glasgow, 333 Woodlands Road, Glasgow, G3 6NG, 0141 2123389 www.thestand.co.uk The Stand Comedy Club presents a live stand-up show for younger fans every month!

Sundays will never be the same!

We’ve got three top comedians at every show. There are no sweary words or adult stuff just a load of jokes and fun.

Best for 8-12s. Sorry, no under 5s and all young comedy fans must be accompanied by an adult.

10-11 Jun

Giffnock Soccer Centre International Football Festival The Jack & Jill Market FREE Glasgow South Pollok Country Park, 2060 10.30-13.00 | £1.50 adults Pollokshaws Road, Glasgow, Bellahouston Sports Centre, Strathclyde, G43 1AT, 0141 287 Bellahouston Drive, Glasgow 5918 South Side G52 1HH Giffnock Soccer Centre is The Jack and Jill Markets are holding its International Youth quality nearly-new baby and Football Festival over two children's markets across weekends in June!

Scotland where Smart Mums Due to the size of the Biggest Sell and Save, offering live Football Gathering in Scotland, market events and a free we are now holding the event online market. Find everything over two separate weekends. you need for baby and The 11-a-side Football children up to 9 years of age, Tournament will be held on all under the one roof, all on Saturday 10th and Sunday 11th the same day. Whether it's of June 2017 large items from our Large The 4-a-side, 7-a-side, Girls and Items Gallery, or clothes, Disability Football Festival will toys, and equipment from be held on our quality nearly-new stalls, Saturday 17th and Sunday 18th you're guaranteed to find what of June 2017 you're looking for - why pay Several thousand people will more when you can pay less - be in attendance to watch now that's being smart! teams from all over Scotland and beyond.

Sat 3 Jun

Sat 10 Jun

Sun 18 Jun

Looking For Nessie 14.00 | £5.95 Scottish Mask & Puppet Centre, 8-10 Balcarres Avenue, Kelvindale, Glasgow, Lanarkshire, G12 0QF, 01413396185 www.maskandpuppet.co.uk Do you believe in the Loch Ness Monster? What about Jack, can Angus convince him that Nessie exists? Laughter and fun from Talking Heads Puppets including Cheeky Robert and Ben in a Basket, Robert’s ever-faithful and very funny dog!

Sun 11 Jun Open Farm Sunday Various locations farmsunday.org/visit-a-farm LEAF Open Farm Sunday, managed by LEAF (Linking Environment And Farming), is one of the farming industry’s biggest success stories. Since the first Open Farm Sunday in 2006, over 1000 farmers across the UK have opened their gates and welcomed people onto their farm for one Sunday each year. It is a fantastic opportunity for everyone, young and old, to discover at first hand what it means to be a farmer and the fabulous work they do producing our food and managing the countryside.

Wee Happenings 13.00-15.00 | 0-4yrs | FREE The Hidden Gardens, 25 Albert Drive, Glasgow G41 2PE, 0141 433 2722 The Hidden Gardens is a family friendly space which we welcome children and adults of all ages to explore.

‘Wee Happenings’ are for families with children 0-4 years and focus on providing free, educational and creative activities in the safe and nurturing space that is The Hidden Gardens. They are large scale infrequent events that aim to bring families together in our beautiful and inspiring space. We work with some of the country’s best artists and facilitators to provide creative activities that inspire, engage and educate.

Sunday 14 May; 12-4pm A dance-themed family fun day. Part of Tramway’s Dance International Glasgow’s Family Day. All ages.

Sat 24 Jun

I Want To Be… Beside the Seaside 16.00 ?| £5.95 Scottish Mask & Puppet Centre, 8-10 Balcarres Avenue, Kelvindale, Glasgow, Lanarkshire, G12 0QF, 01413396185 www.maskandpuppet.co.uk The puppets are going on their Sun 11 Jun holidays around the world, so come and see Chinese, Indian, WEF - Big Sunday Greek and Indonesian shadow 13.00-19.00 puppets, marionettes, rod Kelvingrove Park puppets and our very own www.westendfestival.co.uk/ British glove puppet tradition The West End Festival returns from the Centre’s collection. with a packed programme.

Not forgetting Senga or is it Highlight for families is the Big Agnes backwards.....? Our very Sunday, with live music, funfair, own Glaswegian cleaning lady... street dance, crafts and lots who looks after the Centre more! when we go on our hols...

Issue 62 Winners: Cirque Du Soleil Magda Doroszko

Comedy Festival Janie Callaghan

little life

Haojie Wang

Dhruv Garg, Carole Fitzsimmons, Wai hia lee

mugstock Jo Johnson

Gemma Acreman, Robyn Lavery

bumbo

naturelly

weleda

C Paterson, T Wilson, B Smith, A Stewart, M Quinn, C Arias, J Jackson, M Mair, S Aitken, M Bruce

Find our full listings at familiesonline.co.uk Families Glasgow

May/June 2017

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