Families Central Scotland Jul-Aug 2012

Central Scotland’s really useful magazine for busy families of children age 0-12

FREE

Issue 11 July/August 2012

In This Issue

• Great ideas for the summer holidays • Back to school • Out and about guide • 20% off voucher at Play Pots Ceramics

families_Central_Scotland_Layout 1 30/05/2012 1

www.jackandjillm arket.co.uk Scotland’s Quality Nearly-New Baby & Children’s Market

Classes available in Falkirk and Stirling Find out more: www.nycos.co.uk 0141 287 2943

F4N RO

IONAL AT

ARDS AW

Is your next local Jack & Jill Market on this weekend?

Join in, listen and learn as singing, games and rhymes bring music to life for you and your little one

teach your baby to swim!

WINNE

Music classes for the under 5s

New venues coming soon in Central Scotland

fun, innovative classes creating life-saving confidence from birth

01786 430314 waterbabies.co.uk

www.familiescentralscotland.co.uk

editor@familiescentralscotland.co.uk

079302 64979

contents Welcome and contents .....................................................................3 News and views.................................................................................4-5 Hi and welcome to the July/August issue of Families Central Scotland. The summer holiday is here and we have some great ideas to keep the kids happy and active, from free activities in and around the house to some great days out. We are so lucky to have some great places to visit in Falkirk, Stirling and Clacks so now is your opportunity to pack a picnic and head on out. We have included a few indoor options in case it rains! We have some handy tips to take the stress out of getting ready either to start school or go back to school. Our fantastic out and about guide is bursting with events for the family in July and August.

Remember if you have an event you would like listed in the magazine or if you want to advertise with us email us at editor@ familiescentralscotland.co.uk We are now taking bookings for our September/October issue. Deadline for all copy and adverts is 1st August.

Follow and ‘like’ us on facebook at www.facebook.com/FamCS here we will post regular updates of local events for you and your family and visit our website for more articles, information and a fuller out and about www.familiescentralscotland.co.uk Happy Summer holidays!!!

Fiona & Louise the editors

What to do in the summer holidays......................................6-7 Back to school.................................................................................. 8-12 Parent to parent article....................................................................13 Out and about.............................................................................. 14-15

contact us Fiona Logan and Louise Boyle Joint Editors Families Central Scotland editor@familiescentralscotland.co.uk tel no 079302 64979 Visit us on www.familiescentralscotland.co.uk Circulation 12 000 copies delivered directly to nurseries, playgroups, health centres, libraries, leisure facilities as well as selected shops, cafes and schools.

Please contact us if you wish to receive our media pack, detailing costs and sizes of adverts.

Design – Gillian Lamb of Lamb Designs Printers – J Thomson Colour Printers

Families Central Scotland is part of a larger group of magazines headed

by Families SW London who are celebrating 20 years of publishing. All Franchised magazines are operated under licence. 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 consequences. Any original materials are sent at the owners own risk and while every care is taken neither families nor its agents accept liability for loss or damage.

It’s what’s behind the badge that matters

A company limited by guarantee (SCO39250) and registered charity (SCO05753)

Inspiring learning, building character and shaping futures 3

news & views

Get your baby splash happy!

Take your first steps with us!

At First Steps the aim of our nursery is to provide a warm, happy and safe environment where your child can be looked after and cared for by our experienced and qualified staff team.

We are very proud of our Nursery and look forward to showing you the happy fun atmosphere that we have created. We are here to provide fun and stimulation in an environment that prepares your child well for their move on to ‘Big School.’

At First Steps we offer a very competitive Schedule of Fees with a discount for children in their PreSchool years, we do believe we are the best nursery in the Bonnybridge area and offer fantastic value for money. We have created different

Get reading this summer Falkirk Community Trust Libraries are full of energy this Summer with loads of things to do for young people! We’ve got Michael Kerrins coming to do a storytelling race around the libraries. Touch and feel animal records – which is the longest, smallest, fastest, slowest? Mac-a-story will be telling tall tales and we’ll have our usual exciting round up of parties, story times, Rhymetimes and craft sessions. If you need a sit down with a book after the excitement, we’ll be running the well loved Summer Reading Challenge again this year, with the theme of Storylab. Just sign up with your local library, take out books 6 times and get your membership card stamped and you’ll be in for stickers, prizes and the chance to enter our prize draw. For more information just walk in or log on to http://www.falkirkcommunitytrust.org/libraries/ Parents and carers love the Summer Reading Challenge because children discover the joy of reading – and kids love it because it’s fun. The Summer Reading Challenge – Storylab - is happening in all libraries in Falkirk, Stirling and Clackmannanshire this Summer. So come on down to your local fun, free and friendly library this Summer!

Play, listen and learn at Mini Music Makers Families across Central Scotland can join in the fun as Mini Music Makers begins a brand new block in August. Each 40-minute session will explore rhythm and song through interactive singing games and rhymes, using puppets and simple percussion instruments to bring the music to life. Research has shown that engaging children with music at this early stage can aid child development in areas such as numeracy, speech, language and concentration. These weekly interactive musical sessions for 0 – 5 year olds and their parents/carers will run from August to October 2012 and are available in Falkirk and Stirling.

Places in all classes are allocated on a first come first served basis. Book your place by calling Catherine Williams on 0141 287 2943 or email her at catherine.williams@nycos.co.uk Find out more about Mini Music Makers at www.nycos.co.uk

Hamleys Glasgow Summer Camp There’s 7 weeks of fun and games at Hamleys Toy Store in Glasgow this Summer, see page 15 of the magazine for all the details.

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families central scotland / issue 11

A whole weekend of entertainment at Hopetoun The Gillespie Macandrew Hopetoun Horse Trials is returning to Hopetoun House from Friday 27th July until Sunday 29th of July. The whole weekend offers plenty to keep the family entertained and a great value day out since children under 14 enter for free. There’s two days of spectacular equestrian displays on Saturday and Sunday including show jumping, dressage, and cross-country plus a packed programme of entertainment in the main arena, a dedicated children’s zone and a wonderful selection of fine foods and shopping.

In addition to the daytime programme there are also two new evening events at Hopetoun for 2012. On Friday 27th there’s the Hopetoun Garden Party which is a family focussed event with fun entertainment including Pony Club Games and an opportunity to watch the Olympic opening ceremony live from Hopetoun’s big screen on the West Lawn. On Saturday evening there’s the Hopetoun Gathering, an evening of live music and ceilidh dancing on the West Lawn including a selection of Scottish real ales and a hog roast.

Hopetoun is situated near South Queensferry which is within a 45 minute drive time from Stirling, Falkirk and Clackmannanshire and only 15 minutes from Linlithgow and Bo’ness. With all events centred around Hopetoun House itself the location offers a unique venue for a family day out this summer. Advance tickets start at just £10 each and under 14’s go free. For further information on all events including online ticket sales visit www.hopetounhorsetrials.co.uk or call 0131 331 1546.

areas within all our rooms where the children can engage in a range of activities that are child led, and their interests are taken forward to suit their stage of development,we will help your child to develop, through risk taking challenging experiences which will build their self esteem and confidence in their own ability, and help them to become confident individuals.

First Steps Day Nursery, Allandale View, Glasgow Road, Longcroft, Bonnybridge, FK4 1QN 01324 876949, joan@firststepsnursery. co.uk

news & views

Swimming is one of the few things your baby can do from birth, and as well as being fantastic for them, it’s also one of the healthiest activities for you too. In water, babies are able to exercise every single muscle in their body. Whilst the emphasis in our sessions at Waterbabies is on strengthening the bond between the two of you, swimming from birth is also excellent for their development.

Despite looking gentle, swimming strengthens the heart, lungs and respiratory system which, in turn, aids development of the brain. What’s more, regular swimming can enhance their awareness while improving eating and sleeping patterns. Your baby doesn’t need to have completed their immunisations before entering the pool, but if you have any concerns check out the NHS Choices website.

For more information call Wendy 01786 430314, email her at makeasplash@waterbabies.co.uk or visit www.waterbabies. co.uk

Off the Page

off the page

Now in its seventh year, Off the Page is bringing more exciting events to Stirling in September. We are delighted to announce that Waterstones Children’s Laureate Julia Donaldson, in conjunction with Scottish Book Trust and Scottish Friendly Children’s Book Tour, will be appearing at the Macrobert Mainhouse Theatre, Stirling on Friday 14th September as part of our extensive schools’ programme at Off the Page this year. Among the other authors appearing in the schools’ programme, Andy Briggs will be visiting local primary children to talk about the Tarzan legend and unveil the second book in the series, Tarzan the Jungle Warrior.

We’ll be having a party to say hello to Bookbug and let him hear our songs and stories. Bookbug will be visiting Callander and Central Libraries with some of his friends on Wednesday 12th September, all pre-school children welcome – come along to meet him, and bring your favourite grown-up!

We invite children 10-14 years to join us for an evening of pampering, tips and beauty advice. Treat yourself to an evening of girlie luxury at Cambusbarron Library on Friday 14th September. Bring your friends and watch the transformations!

For more information and to see the extensive adult programme please visit www.stirling.gov.uk or follow us on Twitter@Stirlinglibs or www.facebook.com/offthepagefestival

Summer drama at Beaconhurst!

Would your child like to be in a drama production this Summer? From August 4th to 11th (during the summer holidays) Beaconhurst will be running a weeks drama project for children aged 8-11 years. This year the project will be Annie, the classic musical story of an orphan’s search for a home. The cost is £80 (£40 non refundable deposit). For more details or to book a space please contact Rachel Vevers, Programme Director email: r.vevers@beaconhurst.stirling.sch.uk Every year, all Beaconhurst pupils from S4 to S6 take part in a musical, staged in the Macrobert Arts Centre at the University of Stirling. They have the choice to perform, work backstage, make props, be in the band or work on marketing and media. Through this, a great sense of team spirit prevails with each individual contributing to the overall success of the production. This year Beaconhurst School are bringing their production of Fiddler on the Roof to the Macrobert Theatre, Stirling on Thursday 28th June. Tickets are available from the box office 01786 466666 for the 7.30pm show which is a wonderful opportunity to see an amateur production done to professional standards. Beaconhurst School, 52 Kenilworth Road, Bridge of Allan, Stirling, FK9 4RR 01786 832146

Enjoy a wild day out at Edinburgh Zoo this Summer!

Looking for a fun way to treat the family this summer? Then why not visit Edinburgh Zoo? It really is the perfect place to visit for a great day out. The park is home to over 1,000 rare and wonderful animals from across the globe. Highlights include the UK’s only koalas, our cheeky chimpanzees in Budongo Trail, our family of meerkats and of course, giant pandas, Tian Tian and Yang Guang! There is also a fantastic series of daily animal talks for visitors to enjoy featuring our sun bears, rhinos and brilliant birds amongst others and a walk-about tour of the park. There is also a daily animal encounter session allowing you to get up close to some of the park’s smaller residents. The park has several great catering outlets where you can pick up a meal or snack. Visit the Penguin Coffee Shop for a quick tea or coffee or pop along to the Jungle Food Court or Grasslands for something more substantial. Or if you prefer to bring your lunch with you there are lots of benches and picnic areas so you can enjoy lunch outdoors! There is also a fantastic gift shop where you can choose from a whole range of great products to remind you of your visit. For more information, visit www.edinburghzoo.org.uk

Children helping children

Hummingbird House Nursery & Out of School Club in Dunblane have made “A Children’s Promise to learn about Social Responsibility” through early years childcare & education. Every day children are encouraged to consider how the small things they do make a difference to others. This year Hummingbird are promoting three national fundraising events and two local charities.

The national charities are also supported by their parent company Bertram Nursery Group who collectively in March raised £6,852 for Sport Relief. A big thanks go out to all children, parents, friends & staff who have donated & supported their May Fun Day in aid of The Eilidh Brown Memorial Fund. Capes and superpowers are now at the ready for the Super Hero themed Barnardos Big Toddle this summer. November brings BBC Children in Need and then on to Christmas where Hummingbird will consult with children, parents and staff on which project to support, where children may explore the meaning of giving and ways to help others less fortunate.

Hummingbird House Nursery & Out of School Club, Ramoyle, Dunblane FK15 0BD 01786 821950 http://hummingbirdhouse. co.uk/

Everyone enjoys the RED CARPET treatment at The Flooring Studio The Flooring Studio understands that often their customers are replacing their carpet or flooring as part of a home improvement project involving decorating, new furnishings etc. Flooring Studio Director and Stirlingshire Mum, Kirsteen Scott, offers a complimentary service whereby she will meet with customers in the showroom or their home. After an initial consultation, she will pull together a range of samples with costs for the customer’s consideration. This process continues until the customer is entirely happy with their selection and confirms their order. The Flooring Studio is a family owned business.

The sales and fitting teams are headed up by Manager Nick Clarke who has 25 years experience in the flooring industry. The emphasis is on excellent customer service and value for money. Every budget is catered for from a small piece of vinyl to a complete new build. Please visit us at The Flooring Studio, 82 Henderson Street, Bridge of Allan tel. 01786 833383 or find out more at www.theflooringstudios.com

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What to do in the summer holidays The summer holidays are here and Families Central Scotland have put together a guide of things to do with a mixture of free activities, days out and indoor options, just in case we get a few wet days! Please enjoy and like us on www.facebook.com/FamCS to get regular updates.

What to do in the summer holidays

History on your door step We are so lucky to have some great castles and historic places for the kids to explore. So pack a picnic, find your brave knights/ princess costume (for the kids!) and step back in time.

Free activities Do you remember ‘Why Don’t You? That 70’s kids TV programme which ironically had a bunch of kids on TV telling you to switch off the TV and go and do something less boring instead? Well we have put together some ideas for free things to do this summer both at home and in the local area.

Free activities at home

• Using a bucket of water and big (wallpaper) brushes get little ones to paint the garden fence, wall or patio. Simple and mess-free but great fun. Or get the paints outside and try hand/foot/finger painting on the largest paper you can find – try the back of unused old wallpaper. Then get out the sprinkler hose to clean everyone off!

• Set up a treasure hunt with clues around the house and garden.

• Water fight in the back garden with two teams – one guarding a base, and the others trying to get to the base and steal their mission plans.

• Games day – challenge the kids to get through at least 10 board games, ping pong sessions etc in the day or set up a mini Olympics in the garden with different challenges from skipping to an obstacle race.

• On a rainy afternoon have a movie afternoon with popcorn and a good DVD. • Camp out, pitch a tent in the garden, fill the paddling pool and sand pit, light the BBQ and make some fruity cocktails.

Then pretend you’re in an exotic location and laugh at all the poor travellers stuck in airports or on motorways.

• An outdoor blackboard will encourage all sorts of games and creativity. All you need is a piece of board, ideally marine plywood, cut to the size you require, and some blackboard paint, available from DIY or hardware stores. Once painted, the board can be fixed to your house wall, fence or shed.

Keep chalks in a waterproof box, ready for drawing, writing, treasure hunt maps, instructions, scoring.

• Take a look at the fantastic list compiled by the National Trust on ‘50 things to do before you are 11 ¾’. www.50things.org.uk

Free activities out and about

Beecraigs Country Park A fantastic adventure play area, loads of walks and nature trails. www.beecraigs.com 01506 844516.

Callendar House situated in Callendar park in Falkirk, there is lots for families to do including FREE entry to the house, the Georgian Kitchens and a great park too See www.falkirkcommunitytrust. org 01324 503770.

David Marshall Lodge Visitor Centre In the middle of the Queen Elizabeth Forest Park. Trails and outdoor play area. www.forestry. gov.uk 01877 382383.

Dunblane A lovely FREE day out with ducks to feed, several lovely parks, cafes, the Cathedral and the Dunblane Museum. Visit www. dunblanemuseum.org.uk Gartmorn Dam Country Park and Nature Reserve Nature trails, cycle paths fishing and visitor centre, visit www.clacksweb.org.uk or phone the rangers on 01259 452478 Entry to park is FREE. Geocaching is a real-world, outdoor treasure hunting game using GPS-enabled devices. Participants navigate to a specific set of GPS coordinates and then attempt to find the geocache (container) hidden at that location. There are over 500 geochaches hidden in central Scotland for you and your family to find. FREE family fun.

Visit www.geocaching.com Jupiter Urban Wildlife Centre With 10 acres of wildlife gardens and habitats this is a relaxing retreat for both the young and old.

There are many events on for children, check with the rangers on 01324 486475 for details. Entry to park is FREE.

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Libraries Check out your local library for loads of FREE activities over the summer from the Story Lab reading scheme to arts and crafts. www.falkirkcommunitytrust. org www.stirling.gov.uk www.clacksweb.gov.uk Mugdock Country Park Nature trails , cycle paths, a children’s play area, horse riding and archery, there is loads for all the family. Also has a cafe and gift shop. 0141 956 6100 www.mugdock-country-park.org.uk Entry to park is FREE. Muiravonside Country Park Great play area, visitor centre, cafe and a small farm with some rare breeds and exotic animals and birds. Also nature trails and walks. Phone 01506 845311 for opening times. Entry to park is FREE. Play in the park FREE for all ages in various parks in and around Stirling. For dates and details www.stirling.gov.uk or contact Janet Gowran on 01786 430120 Sand play, giant paint boards, dressing up, face painting, den making, games and lots more.

Plean Country Park. Picturesque woodland with nature trails and walks for all the family. www.stirling.gov.uk Entry to park is FREE The Smith Stirling Museum and Gallery A fantastic museum packed full of information about Stirling, a children’s dressing up corner, a fabulous garden and cafe. FREE entry.

Stirling Council Superbus Coming to a venue near you, sessions on the Superbus are FREE, you can play, paint, make and sculpt while on a fantastic themed bus. For details contact Janet Gowran on 01786 430120 www.stirling.gov.uk

Wet weather ideas Cinema What could be better on a wet summers day, Catch up on those films you have missed at the fabulous Bo’ness Hippodrome www.falkirkcommunitytrust.org/arts or the Macrobert in Stirling www.macrobert.org Play Pots Ceramics in Stirling www.playpotsceramics.co.uk 01786 471755.

Smudge Cat in Falkirk Arts and crafts for all ages using decopath.

01324 878444.

Springkerse View Playzone in Stirling www.springkerseview.co.uk 01786 446092.

Soft Play

Kidz World in Alloa www.kidz-world.co.uk 01259 720850 Cadwinkles, 01324 622822 www.playhousefun.co.uk Monster Mania www.monstersoftplay.co.uk 01324 617111 in Falkirk Bearheart Castle in Stirling www.bearheartcastle.co.uk 01786 462621.

Smudge Cat Decopatch Anyone can come in and try decopatch. From age 2 to 102! No need to book as you can pop in or book a party. The studio holds up to 20 comfortably. Why not come for a Ladies night when you can bring your own wine and nibbles. A session lasts 1.30 to 2 hours. Small children can come back and finish their item at no extra cost so no pressure to rush. Facebook : smudgecat crafts.

Come in and see us at 54 Cow Wynd Falkirk or phone on 01324 878444

Bannockburn Heritage Centre Explore the historic site of the battle of Bannockburn, lots of interactive displays and dressing up for the kids. www.nts.org.uk or phone 0844 493 2139.

Blackness Castle Situated by the Forth near Bo’ness this is an impressive and atmospheric castle www.historic-scotland. gov.uk Cambuskenneth Abbey A lovely walk from Stirling across the river into Cambuskenneth and good play park nearby. www.historic-scotland.gov.uk Castle Campbell Set in a stunning position high on the hill in Dollar Glen, Castle Campbell and lovely gardens. www.historic-scotland.gov.uk Doune Castle Kids will love to explore this medieval castle with great woodland walks. Also great for all you Monty Python fans! www.historic-scotland.gov.uk

Get active Why not get out and about. We have

some wonderful walks and cycles in the local area. Look up www.walk4life.com which has suggestions of walks in your local area. Just type in you postcode and see what comes up. Alternatively your suggestions have been exploring the Helix project, the Fairy Glen at Aberfoyle, Alva Glen, Walks along the Carron, and Abbotshaugh and Cobblebrae. Look on our website for our top family friendly cycle paths at www.familiescentralscotland.co.uk Alloa Leisure Bowl FREE swimming for under 16’s Monday to Friday throughout the holidays. www.leisure-bowl.co.uk 01259 723527 Firpark Ski Centre in Tillicoultry offers a whole range of snow sports throughout the year from skiing to tubing to snowboarding.

01259 751772 Mariner Centre Camelon www.falkirk.gov.uk 01324 503750 Polmont Ski Centre offers a whole range of snow sports throughout the year from skiing to tubing to snowboarding.

01324 503835 www.falkirk.gov.uk The Peak Swimming Pool and Leisure Centre Swimming, skating and lots more.www.the-peak-stirling.org.uk 01786 273555.

Wellsfield Farm Activity Centre Pony riding, archery, trout fishing and lots more. 01324 822800 visit www.wellsfield.co.uk

Inchmahome Priory – Set on an island on the Lake of Menteith, this is an exciting day out for the kids. Take a picnic and some midge repellent! www.historic-scotland.gov.uk Linlithgow Palace – Visit this beautiful palace with loads of towers to climb and nooks and crannies to explore. www.historic-scotland.gov.uk Menstrie Castle A three story partly furnished castellated House which is over 400 years old. www.nts.org.uk or phone 0844 493 2130.

Stirling Castle Come and see the fantastic renovation of the Palace apartments. You will come face to face with Mary of Guise and other members of the royal court. Brilliant fun for the kids very hands on and interactive. www.stirlingcastle.gov.uk or phone 01786 450000.

Play Pots is a paint your own pottery studio located at 158 Drip Road, Stirling. We have a large number of blank unpainted pottery to choose from catering for all ages and all budgets. Prices start from just £6. Our range includes mugs, plates, plaques, bowls, banks and boxes, animals and figurines and we also stock Hello Kitty, Mr Men and Disney ranges – its a fun day out for all the family whatever the weather! We have our own free soft play area, free car parking and also have a cafe. We offer a fantastic birthday party package and can do evening group events for brownies etc. Play Pots is the place to come for all your personalised gifts – ranging from hand and foot prints in clay, to 3D casts, outprints and silver fingerprint jewellery.

Why not pop along and visit us and create your own masterpiece?

Days out for all the family Blaridrummond Safari Park Wild animals, the sea lion show, monkey island and a great play area, this is a great family day out. www.blairdrummond.com 01786 841456 free child ticket available on website.

Bo’ness and Kinneil Steam Railway. Trains leave every hour from the station and visit the Scottish Railway Museum where you can experience the trains close up. www.bkrailway.co.uk 01259 822298.

Bo’ness Motor Museum Fantastic vintage cars, including some from the Bond movies and the famous Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, there is something for all the family as well as a soft play area included in the ticket price. www.motor-museum.bo’ness.org.uk 01506 827007 Briarlands Bouncy pillows, go karts, zip slide, and a pick your own strawberries. Now open all year round with a great cafe. www.briarlandsfarm.co.uk 01786 841309 Falkirk Wheel Take a boat ride that goes on the amazing wheel that joins the Union to the Forth and Clyde Canal. There is a cafe, great play park and loads to do for all the family. 08700 500208 www.thefalkirkwheel.co.uk Loch Katrine Enjoy a trip on the famous Sir Walter Scott steam ship. For details of sailings visit www.lochkatrine.com 01877 332000.

The National Wallace Monument – This is the place where history is something you can touch and feel as you follow the story of Sir William Wallace. Walk up to the top of the monument, follow the nature trails around the monument and finish off with a snack at the cafe. Look out for special events in the holidays where there will be presentations by costumed actors bring William Wallace to life! www.nationalwallacemonument.com 01786 472140.

Stirling Old Town Jail Set in the historic part of Stirling, a great day out for all the family, with a chance to experience a fantastic live prison tour where you will meet the characters who bring this incredible Victorian prison back to life. There are trails for children to follow and interactive exhibitions. www.oldtownjail.com 01786 450050.

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Back to school

10 things to make starting school easier

I

f your child is starting school this August, it’s time to start preparing. Forget force feeding them phonics, this is about getting your child ready for the social challenges of school.

The more prepared they are, the easier they will settle and the more they’ll get out of those early days.

1. Can they dress themselves?

Imagine the scene. One teacher faced with thirty children and their coats. By the time each child is zipped up and wrapped up, playtime is over. If your child is able to go some way to helping, they may get some fresh air.

If you can see buttons on trousers and skirts becoming a problem during the post PE change, invest in elasticated waistbands. These will also help during any ‘last minute’ toilet visits. Avoid tights in the early days

- they can also lead to unnecessary bathroom accidents. With shoes, laces and buckles are a no-no. Stick to Velcro fastenings which your child can do themselves.

2. Are they used to sharing?

Sharing is a difficult lesson for a child to learn, especially if they only start learning it at school. But it’s a vital lesson if you want your child to settle in and make friends easily. No one wants to play with the boy who refuses to take turns and share, and before long that child becomes isolated. Start to make a point of praising your pre-schooler for sharing his bag of figures or his last few sweets.

3. Can they use the toilet on their own?

Infant classrooms usually have a toilet nearby but children are expected to use it on their own.

That can mean less confident children avoid a visit until it’s too late.

Encourage your child to begin taking toilet trips without you to build up their confidence. Remind them that hand washing is part of the ‘visit’.

Beginning school toilet training now will mean less accidents in August.

4. Are they able to eat independently?

Lunchtimes can be a real flashpoint in the early days of your child’s school

by Sarah Butters life. Dinner halls are noisy places and can make a child feel overwhelmed.

Make sure they arrive at school able to pick up and use a knife and fork.

If they’re opting for a packed lunch, make sure they can open a yoghurt, put a straw in a juice box and unpeel a banana. Practice, however painful, makes perfect.

5. Are they able to recognise their name? If your child can recognise their name, they’ll be able to find their peg, identify their drawer in the classroom and find their cardigan if it gets misplaced. Starting school can make even the most confident child feel a little lost. If they can locate important places, it will make them feel more in control.

6. Can they use scissors? Teachers

look for this in the early stages of school to evaluate dexterity. Get crafty over the next few months.

7. Do they understand discipline? It’s important your child

understands what’s expected of them when they arrive at school. They need to know hitting, kicking, biting and hair pulling will not be tolerated.

Not only will it bring your child to the attention of the head teacher for all the wrong reasons, but it will make your child unpopular with their classmates. Reputations earned in the early days of school tend to stick and can be hard to shake off.

8. Can they communicate with an adult?

Giving your child the skills to communicate with their teacher

means they will be able to have some control. How else will they ask to go to the toilet? If they don’t understand how to get the attention of an adult, how will they let their teacher know they don’t understand their work? A child who can communicate will get more out of the school day than a child who is unwilling to speak up. Encourage your child to ask and make sure they understand the most appropriate way of getting a grown ups attention.

Back to school

9. Are they able to count? If your child

is able to count up to 20, and count back from 10, this will give them a really good head start. Use some of their favourite toys or foods to make counting fun. Lay out 10 grapes and get them to eat them one by one, counting as they go. It will give them confidence and help them see learning as fun.

Plus it’s a great way to get one of their 5 a day down them!

10. Can they follow simple instructions? The school

day is full of instructions. Your child will be asked to put coats on pegs, bring packed lunches into classrooms and sit cross legged on the carpet for circle time. If a child is used to following instructions, they will avoid being reprimanded. The more time a teacher dedicates to repeating instructions and encouraging co-operation, the less time there is for teaching. Start giving your child simple tasks – perhaps helping with the weekly shop or with some straight forward jobs around the house. It will prepare them for school life.

Learning through the seasons

High Quality Care for children 0 - 5 years providing a safe happy stimulating learning environment • Convenient for M80 motorway links to Glasgow/ Falkirk/ Stirling • Qualified and Experienced Staff • Large Secure Outdoor play areas To arrange a visit please • Easy access secure private parking contact Joan/Janine • Open 7am - 7pm 51 weeks of Year Tel 01324 876949 or e mail • Out of School Club (Opening August 2012) joan@firststepsnursery.uk.com • Located in the village of Longcroft, Bonnybridge www.firststepsnurserylongcroft.co.uk • Competitive Schedule of Fees. Discount available for First Steps Day Nursery pre-school children Allandale View Glasgow Road Longcroft FK4 1QN

Some books you may find useful: I am TOO absolutely small for school (Charlie and Lola)

by Lauren Child First Day Jitters by Julie Danneberg Little School by Beth Norling Starting School Sticker Book (Usborne) by Felicity Brooks Starting School

by Janet and Allan Ahlberg Topsy and Tim Start School

by Jean Adamson

great value schoolwear all year round

Made to last qualty school uniforms from Trutex, and a super speedy embroidery service, makes us the first choice for school uniforms in Falkirk.

Call: 01324 618810

Contact Gail 01259 211218 forthvalley@stepaheadtuition.com

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familiescentral centralscotland scotland/ /issue issue114 families

Trutex, 32 Vicar Street, Falkirk, Scotland FK1 1JB E-mail: falkirk@trutex.com

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F

amilies have asked some of our local experts for some top tips on preparing for the first term back after the holidays. Read on, be ready and don’t leave everything to the last minute!

Labels4Kids Top tips for labelling

GILLESPIE MACANDREW

hopetoun HORSE TRIALS 28TH & 29TH July 2012

A WONDERFUL SPECTACLE FOR ALL THE FAMILY EQUESTRIAN EXCELLENCE, FINE FOOD, SHOPPING AND ENTERTAINMENT

Labels4Kids, sells personalised name labels for 0-12 year olds worldwide via the website www. labels4kids.com Based in Stirling and ran

by Ann-Maree Morrison, Labels4Kids has years of experience in labelling. Catering for 3 boys of her own, Ann-Maree has a number of tips for parents whose kids are starting school.

1. Label EVERYTHING. Yes, from hair bands to swimming goggles BECAUSE KIDS LOSE STUFF! 2. Better still, label it twice if you can afford to.

3. Don’t go for the traditional woven label for clothes, there are many more options available these days including a brilliant woven iron on.

4. Don’t rely on a marker pen that fades, belongings are more expensive to replace if lost than the cost of labels.

5. Order early, waiting until August just adds to your stress!

DSC_3721.jpg

TICKETS FROM £10, CHILDREN UNDER 14 FREE

www.hopetoun.co.uk HOPETOUN HOUSE, SOUTH QUEENSFERRY, NEAR EDINBURGH

Lables4Kids have loads of different types of labels to suit every purpose from clothing to tags for school lunch boxes and bags, to labels for the insides of shoes.

Check out the website at www. labels4kids.com/fam Labels4Kids can prevent lost property and wasted time and money buying new uniform or

great value schoolwear all year round

Made to last qualty school uniforms from Trutex, and a super speedy embroidery service, makes us the first choice for school uniforms in Falkirk.

Arnhall Nursery is a private day nursery that provides high quality childcare from birth up to 5 years.

We have pre-school grant funded places available and have been graded Excellent & Very Good by SCSWIS in our recent report; the Nursery is set in the beautiful rural surroundings of the Keir Estate on the outskirts of Dunblane with ample car parking.

• Open all year round from 7.30am to 6.00pm • All meals included home cooked by our in-house chef • Fully qualifed & trained staff.

For further details or to arrange a visit please contact the Nursery direct on 01786 822 391 Keir Estate, Dunblane FK15 9NU www.arnhallnursery.co.uk

families central scotland / issue 11

Undetected eye conditions can disrupt your child’s education

Eyes stop developing at the delicate age of eight, so it is essential for us as parents to protect our children’s eyes.

Eye conditions are often undetected and as many as 1 in 5 will have an unnoticed eye condition - often caused by sitting too close to the television or holding reading books too near. Your child’s eyesight is precious and can determine how well they perform both inside and outside of school. Eye strain can not only trigger headaches and fatigue but may also cause long-term damage to their eye sight.

Sadly, schools no longer hold eye test screening for our children so I have made it a priority to provide free examinations to all children under the age of 16. Earlier this year we launched private open afternoons for children’s groups and their parents, taking the stress out of your visit to the opticians.

Let’s teach our children the importance of healthy eyes by testing them at least once every year and improve quality of sight for the next generation. Ochil Eyes, 105 High Street, Tillicoultry, 01259 752755. Call us or pop in and visit - we will be delighted to see you!

School uniform – buy it now!

Call: 01324 618810 Trutex, 32 Vicar Street, Falkirk, Scotland FK1 1JB E-mail: falkirk@trutex.com

Now is the time to buy your child’s school uniform to avoid that last minute panic in August when you may find some sizes out of stock!

Write out a list and remember to include PE kit, school bag, gym bag, packed lunch box, shoes and of course school uniform. Trutex in Falkirk is a great place to go for all your schoolwear and kids club uniforms/sports kit. They sell a huge range of good quality, durable school uniform at affordable prices. Trutex also stock• Dance wear • Sports and swimwear • Rainbows, Brownies and Guide Uniforms • Beavers, Cubs and Scout Uniforms • Kidorable clothing brand Trutex, 32 Vicar Street, Falkirk, FK1 1JB – call 01324 618810 or go to www.trutex.com

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Back to school

Be Smart at Back To School!

Back to School is the busiest time of the year for most children’s shoe shops. To make school shoe shopping in July and August as stress free as possible Clever Clogs have introduced an appointment system. You don’t have to have an appointment but it does mean you can avoid the worst of the queues.

After a summer wearing sandals and trainers, new school shoes will undoubtedly feel strange. Bring your child’s school socks with you when you’re shoe shopping and it’s really important that your child wears their new shoes at home for a little while every day over a week or so before the new term begins.

This will all help to make sure their new shoes are as comfortable as possible. Shoes have to be fastened securely otherwise they may slip and rub. We will show you how your shoes should be fastened and it’s a good idea to let your child practise fastening their own shoes. We want your new shoes to last as long as possible and there’s no doubt that shoes which are looked after and polished regularly last longer than those which aren’t! Clever Clogs, 19 Bank Street, Falkirk 01324 633090

What’s on at Stagecoach Stirling After a very successful Summer Workshop at Stagecoach Stirling last year, we are pleased to announce that we are doing another! This years Summer Workshop will be from the 30th July until the 3rd August for children aged 6yrs to 18yrs, with a performance at the end of the week! The Summer term has been an exciting time for the current crop of Stagecoach students. A number of them performed at the Edinburgh Playhouse to over a thousand people, in the ‘Voice in a million’ concert. Voice in a million, raises awareness about the fostering and adoption situation in the UK, and the difficult circumstances that many children find themselves in.

Several of our Stagecoach students were chosen as soloists and the concert gave yet another opportunity for our students to perform on the big stage in a fabulous setting, for a very worthwhile cause. All the students did a fantastic job.

After the summer break, our Autumn term starts on Saturday the 8th September and runs for 14 weeks, every Saturday, until the 15th December.

For more information please call Kirsten Campbell (Principal) on: 0131 337 7774 or email: stirling@stagecoach.co.uk or enrol on-line at www. stagecoach.co.uk/stirling

11

back to school

parent to parent

D

ragging your kids shoe shopping during their summer holidays isn’t fun for anyone. As mums we know how stressful this can be so we asked Emma Bryce, Podiatrist for Physiofocus for her top tips.

Your children will be in their school shoes all day so you need to make sure their new shoes properly fit their feet. Always have both feet measured for length and width.

It is important to choose shoes which are available in whole and half sizes and offer the greatest choice of width fittings.

On average a child’s feet grow 2 sizes per year in the first 4 years then one size a year thereafter. However as all childrens feet grow in spurts their footwear should be professionally checked for fit every six to eight weeks when they are toddling and every three to four months after that.

Check the assistant is a trained shoe fitter.

The toe area should be foot shaped and have a built-in space around the toes to give feet room to wiggle. A newly fitted shoe should have about a thumbs width between the longest toe and the front of the shoe. Fashion shoes may look cute but worn regularly can have a deforming effect on the foot’s development.

Choose leather footwear because it provides the healthiest environment for growing feet.

Children’s feet sweat and natural material such as leather allows the feet to breath.

Shoes should be held onto the feet by straps or laces and fit snugly around the heel. Avoid slipons or shoes that make the child curl their toes to keep them on.

If you want advice or help with foot health for adults or children contact Emma Bryce, podiatrist Physiofocus, Stirling – a1feet4life@yahoo.co.uk 01786 480048

Best planet saving tip Walk or cycle instead of driving when you can. Also saves money on those ever increasing petrol costs!

Top Tips •

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•

•

•

Don’t leave it until the last minute. Shops will be busier at the end of the school holidays and they may have sold out of your chosen style or size.

Go first thing in the morning. It will be quieter and that’s when your child is likely to be feeling freshest.

Allow enough time – it takes around half an hour for a child to be professionally measured and fitted for shoes.

For the best fit, take school socks with you for your child to wear when being fitted for shoes.

For a complete guide to children’s foot health you can down load a free copy of ‘Looking out for Children’s Feet’ at www.feetforlife.org which is an excellent

Back to School with &

M

y name is Emma McGurk and I have been married for nearly 10 years to my husband Gavin. We have 1 child, Niamh McGurk who is 5 years old. I live in Grangemouth and am a fitness instructor teaching Body Pump, Body Attack, CXworx and Group Indoor Cycling classes (commonly called Spinning). I also am a qualified Children’s Fitness Instructor and run my own business called Junior-cise (www. juniorcise.co.uk) telephone number 07842 434097 where I teach fitness classes to children aged 4-11 years old.

Why you like living where you do?

We live in a beautiful estate in Grangemouth. It’s off the main road and is very quiet. We have a few children of similar age to Niamh in the street who all get on well and play together. It’s also very close to Niamh’s school.

Favourite shop for clothes Next and River Island and I can’t see past either of them. Particularly Next for clothes for Niamh. I should have loyalty cards. I like Next because of the reasonable price and there is a great selection of everyday wear. I like to shop in River Island for an outfit if I am going out. For wee gifts and unusual presents I love WOW in Kings Road, Grangemouth. It’s a fantastic wee gift shop that has a wide range of pretty or unusual gifts, something just that wee bit different.

Favourite park Our local park, Zetland Park in Grangemouth.

It’s had a fair bit of money spent on it in recent years and there is a very big play park, which is clean and safe, for the children to play in. Niamh loves it there and from our house we can cycle or walk to it.

Favourite children’s club/class Junior-cise of course ! Where I do a variety of fitness activities to keep the children fit, healthy and occupied.

Favourite day out Active Kids in Stanley, Perth.

It’s a great day out with so much to do and see.

Favourite child friendly restaurant Eating Inn at Springkerse, Stirling. Big soft play that Niamh enjoys, plus I like the fact that we can sit and eat and watch where she is on the TV screens that sit in the booths.

The food is lovely too!

Favourite night out without the kids As a very special treat myself and my husband push the boat out and have a wee night away at the Dakota Hotel in South Queensferry. Total relaxation, luxury and gorgeous food in the 5 star restaurant.

Very special treat.

Proudest eco-friendly moment Running my own business (Junior-cise) means I need a big car with lots of room to carry all my equipment and also to transport Niamh safely. So a downside for me was having to buy something that’s not the most economical. However I also bought a bike and whenever I do any of my other classes I try to cycle to the gym and back instead of using the car.

Funniest comment your kids have ever made Niamh turned to my husband one evening proclaiming him to be the boss of the house, then turned round to me and said in a stage whisper, “well that’s what he thinks mummy cos we all know it’s you” !!!!

Favourite family holiday spot Any all inclusive Holiday Village, we usually go to Majorca, not too far a flight, lots to do, kids clubs, entertainment and just get treated so well.

Most loved children’s book Niamh just loves to read – her favourite at the moment are Mr Men and Little Misses.

Most played with toys Right now its Moshi Monsters!

Biggest waste of money We bought Niamh a balance bike (no pedals) to help her out when it comes to taking the stabilisers off her “proper bike” she’s not even looked at it... why ?? because it doesn’t have pedals!

Emma’s local recommendations WOW fabulous frames and desirable gifts, Kings Rd Grangemouth 01324 482500 The Springkerse View Eating Inn, Stirling www.springkerseview.co.uk Dakota Hotel, South Queensferry www.dakotahotels.co.uk/home Zetland Park, Grangemouth www.falkirkcommunitytrust.org/ venues/zetland-park

Full expert fitting service - because your children’s feet deserve nothing less Appointments available but not necessary. Shoes from £34 33 Upper Craigs Stirling FK8 2DG Tel no. 01786 470077 73 High street Linlithgow EH49 7ED Tel no. 01506 843644 109 High Street Auchterarder PH3 1BJ Tel no. 01764 663541

Huge Selection Available At The

Hub

7 High Street - Dunblane - 01786 825933 www.thehubdirect.co.uk 12

families central scotland / issue 11

13

out & about Thursday 28th June

Beaconhurst School present Fiddler on the Roof - Macrobert 7.30pm. 01786 466666.

Friday 29th June to Thursday 5th July (ex Tues) Ice Age 4 (U) Bo’ness Hippodrome various times.

Top Cat (U) Macrobert various times.

Saturday 30th June Show Me Chris and Pui at the Falkirk Town Hall 11 am and 2 pm 01324 506850.

Saturday 30th June and Sunday 1st July The Pirates! In an Adventure with Scientists (U) Macrobert 11am.

Sunday 1st July Andy Manley and Rob Evans present Mikey and Addie at the Macrobert Stirling 12noon. www. macrobert.org Little Seedlings Club Grow Your Own Lunch Box Contact Dobbies on 01786 458860 FREE. The Jack & Jill Market Grangemouth10.30am-1.30pm 40 stalls bursting with quality nearlynew baby & kids clothes, cots, toys, buggys and bikes. £1 Adults.

Grangemouth Sports Complex, FK3 9JD www.jackandjillmarket. co.uk Tuesday 3rd July Create a mini garden fit for a Queen at the walled garden at Callendar House 11am and 1pm.

For ages 5-12 FREE booking essential. 01324 506850.

Wednesday 4th July Jupiter Wildlife Centre in Grangemouth Creepy Crawly Time 2-4pm Booking essential.

01324 486475.

Make Finger Puppets at Callendar House 10-11am. For ages 4-8.

01324 506850.

Making Shadow Puppets at Callendar House 1.15-2.30pm. For ages 9-12. 01324 506850.

Friday 6th July Arts and Crafts at Callendar House - Make your own stylish stamp 2-4pm FREE. 01324 503770

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Whilst every care has been taken to compile the Out and About section please remember that this magazine is printed weeks in advance of the event.

Friday 6th July to Sunday 8th July

Saturday 14th July

Alva Highland Games at Johnston Park www.alva.ukctest.co.uk The Falkirk Wheel 10th Anniversary www.thefalkirkwheel.

Jupiter Wildlife Olympics 2-4pm. co.uk Celebrate the Olympics wildlife style. Booking essential. 01324 Friday 6th July to 486475.

Thursday 12th July (ex Tues) Saturday 14th July to Monday 16th July Rock of Ages (12A) Bo’ness Hippodrome various times.

Beauty and the Beast (U) Bo’ness Hippodrome various times.

Friday 6th July to Thursday 19th July Sunday 15th July The Amazing Spiderman (12) Canine Capers at the Helix Macrobert various times.

01324 501108 Saturday 7th July Jupiter Urban Wildlife Centre Watch Club in Grangemouth Photographic Wildlife Detective.

10.30-12.30. 01324 486475.

Mr Poppers Penguins (PG) Bo’ness Hippodrome 11am.

Doune and Dunblane Show 9am-5pm. www. douneanddunblaneshow.co.uk Stitching Smiles – family workshop at Callendar House 104pm. For ages 10+. 01324 506850.

Saturday 7th and Sunday 8th July Spectacular Jousting at Linlithgow Palace 12.30-4.30. www.historic-scotland.org.uk Sunday 8th July Stirling Highland Games 11.30 at Stirling Rugby Grounds www.sshg.org.uk/games Sunday 8th and Monday 9th July

Tuesday 17th July Young Rangers Morning at Blackness Castle 10-12noon. booking essential. 01506 842065.

Wednesday 18th July Make a Kaleidoscope at Callendar House 10-11.45 am. Booking essential. For ages 12-16.

01324 506850.

Make a Terrarium at Callendar House 1.15-2.30pm booking essential. For ages 9-12.

01324 506850.

Thursday 19th July Jupiter Wildlife Centre Grangemouth - Making puppets 2-4pm. booking essential.

01324 486475.

Friday 20th July Arts and Crafts at Callendar House create stylish stamps 2-4pm. 01324 503770.

Friday 20th to Tuesday 31st July

Being Elmo (U) Bo’ness Hippodrome various times. Funny in Falkirk Festival For information phone 01324 611293 or www.falkirkdelivers.com Wednesday 11th July Come along and make a small felted picture at the walled garden at Callendar House 11am and 1pm. Booking essential. For ages 5-12. 01324 506850 Thursday 12th July Aquatic Delights at Jupiter Wildlife Centre in Grangemouth Booking essential. 01324 486475.

Saturday 21st July Top Cat Bo’ness Hippodrome 11am.

Saturday 21st to Sunday 22nd July Family Camp Out with the Clacks Rangers Contact the Rangers Service on 01259 452478 Booking essential.

Friday 13th July Arts and Crafts at Callendar House to create a stylish stamp 2-4pm. FREE. 01324 503770.

families central scotland / issue 11

Saturday 22nd July Children’s Festival at Zetland Park Grangemouth 1-5pm.

Wednesday 25th July When Gran was a girl in the 1950’s at Callendar House 10.30 Booking essential. For ages 6+.

01324 506850.

Jupiter Wildlife Centre Grangemouth - Exploring the world of spiders 2-4pm booking essential. 01324 486475.

Falkirk Rangers pond dipping by the River Carron Free for ages 7+.

01324 504950 Friday 27th July Arts and Crafts at Callendar House create stylish stamps 2-4pm. FREE. 01324 503770.

London 2012 - Opening Ceremony at Grangemouth Stadium Celebrate the opening of the London 2012 Olympic Games with Falkirk’s very own Family Opening Ceremony at Grangemouth Stadium 10.30-3pm.

01324 590940.

Central Scotland Fire and Rescue Services Child Safety Event 124pm. Falkirk Town Centre. There will be a working fire engine and fire dogs, with demonstrations on how to keep your child safe. FREE. Friday 27th July to Thursday 2nd August The Amazing Spiderman (12) Bo’ness Hippodrome various times.

Saturday 28th July Airth Highland Games 11am to 6pm www.airthgames. co.uk The Navigator (U) Bo’ness Hippodrome 11am.

Tullibody Gala Day 12-6pm Civic Centre and Park.

Saturday 28th and Sunday 29th July Diesel Gala at Bo’ness and Kinneil Steam Railway www.bkrailway.co.uk Callander Highland Games 12-5pm www.incallander.co.uk/highgames.htm Avengers Assemble (12A) Bo’ness Hippodrome various times.

Gillespie Macandrew Hopetoun Horse Trials Come along with friends and family to enjoy first class eventing, a wide range of family entertainment, fine foods and shopping. www.hopetoun. co.uk/Horse-Trials.htm

Sunday 29th July The Jack & Jill Market Grangemouth 10.30am-1.30pm 40 stalls bursting with quality nearly-new baby & kids clothes, cots, toys, buggys and bikes. £1 Adults. West Lothian College Livingston EH54 7EP www.jackandjillmarket.co.uk

Friday 3rd August to Thursday 16th August Brave (U) Bo’ness Hippodrome various times (ex Tues) Brave (U) Macrobert various times.

Sunday 4th August

Tuesday 31st July Jupiter Wildlife Centre Grangemouth Brilliant Butterflies Booking essential. 01324 486475.

Tuesday 31st July to Friday 3rd August

Jupiter Wildlife Centre in Grangemouth Watch Club Super Shelter Building 10.30—12.30 Booking essential. 01324 486475.

Sunday 5th August

John Muir Trust week with the Clacks Rangers Booking essential as numbers limited.

Contact the Rangers on 01259 452478.

Thursday 2nd August

Little Seedlings Club Butterflies, bees and bugs Contact Dobbies on 01786 458860.

Bridge of Allan Highland Games 10-6pm. www.bofagames.com Monday 6th August

Story telling workshop at Callendar House 2.30-3.30 pm FREE. For ages 0-5.

01324 506850.

Create a play in a day at Callendar House 10-4pm For ages 6-12. 01324 506850.

Monday 6th to Friday 10th August

Friday 3rd August Arts and Crafts at Callendar House create stylish stamps 2-4pm FREE. 01324 503770.

Hopetoun Wildlife Week Booking essential, contact the Ranger on 0131 319 3956.

Friday 3rd to Sunday 5th August Day out with Thomas at Bo’ness and Kinneil Steam Railway www.bkrailway.co.uk

Jupiter Wildlife Centre Grangemouth Clever Camouflage 2-4pm. Booking essential, Contact the Jupiter Ranger on 01324 486475.

Thursday 9th August Story telling workshop at Callendar House 2.30-3.30 pm.

For ages 0-5. FREE 01324 506850.

Friday 10th August Arts and Crafts at Callendar House create stylish stamps 2-4pm. 01324 503770.

Saturday 11th August Brave (U) Macrobert 11am.

Jupiter Wildlife Centre Grangemouth Getting Arty with Natures Paints and Dyes Booking essential. 01324 486475.

Sunday 12th August The Jack & Jill Market Grangemouth 10.30am-1.30pm 40 stalls bursting with quality nearly-new baby & kids clothes, cots, toys, buggys, bikes and all the rest. £1 Adults. Grangemouth Sports Complex, FK3 9JD www. jackandjillmarket.co.uk

Wednesday 8th August

Tuesday 14th August

When Gran was a girl in the 1950’s at Callendar House 10.30.

For ages 6+. 01324 506850.

Young Rangers Morning at Linlithgow Peel 10-12noon.

Suitable for ages 5-15. Booking essential. 01506 842065.

out & about

Wednesday 15th August

Jupiter Wildlife Centre Grangemouth Getting lost – Orienteering challenge 2-4pm.

Booking essential. 01324 486475.

Friday 17th August Hopetoun Night Hunters Walk 8-10pm Booking essential, contact the Ranger on 0131 319 3956.

Saturday 18th and Sunday 19th August Le Petit Nicolas Bo’ness Hippodrome various times.

Family Pond dip and Woodland minibeast hunt 11.30-2pm at Gartmorn Dam Visitor Centre.

Contact the Rangers Service on 01259 452478 or email rangers@clacks.gov.uk Saturday 25th August Puss In Boots (U) Bo’ness Hippodrome 11am.

Sunday 26th August Kinneil Heritage Day FREE 12.304pm. Kinneil House will be open from 12noon - 4pm.

The Jack & Jill Market Grangemouth 10.30am-1.30pm 40 stalls bursting with quality nearly-new baby & kids clothes, cots, toys, buggys, bikes and all the rest. £1 Adults West Lothian College Livingston EH54 7EP www.jackandjillmarket.co.uk

What’s On in the summer holidays at Hamleys Toy Shop Glasgow The Amazing Spider-Man swings into Hamleys – Saturday 7th July 11am – 4pm

To celebrate the release of ‘The Amazing Spider-Man’ your friendly neighbourhood Spider-Man will be swinging by Hamleys in Glasgow to meet and greet some of his Scottish fans. Spider-Man will be appearing in the Hamleys Stage Area overlooking St Enoch Centre food court between 11am and 4pm. All customers will be free to take their own photographs, there will also be the opportunity to have a professional photograph taken by our photography partners Portrait Place. There is no charge for the professional photograph but we will be taking donations for children’s charities throughout Scotland. There will be a queue system in place to meet the character so make sure you get there early to avoid disappointment. The queue will be cut to ensure the event finishes at 4pm.

Hamleys Summer Camp – Wednesday 27th June – Sunday 12th August

Join team Hamleys on a summer adventure! With games, workshops, themed days, sports days, parties, dancing, character visits and even singing round the camp fire... this is a summer not to be missed!! All you have

to do is turn up in store – no booking, no fees, no hassle! Just come along and enjoy the fun, magic and theatre at the finest toy shop in the world!

Win the chance to see Peppa Pig Treasure Hunt Live plus a puppet workshop

Come to Hamleys, St Enoch Centre and colour in a picture of Peppa and her friends for a chance to win a family ticket to see Peppa Pig’s Treasure Hunt and a Peppa Puppet Workshop. Peppa Pig Treasure Hunt will be on at the Edinburgh Festival Theatre from 4th-5th July (0131 5296000) and Perth Concert hall 11th-12th July. (01738 621031) For details visit www.peppapiglive.com The Peppa Pig workshop is a 45 minute workshop for max 20 children between 3 & 5 years old plus their carers. This intimate, hands-on workshop allows the pre-schoolers to devise their own puppet character and make it with simple arts and crafts which will be provided. There will be 3 sessions taking place on Sunday 1st July, with a special appearance by Peppa Pig herself!

To win enter the in store colouring competition. Hamleys will then choose the winners at random.

For details of all these events visit www.hamleys.com/glasgow

15

Act, sing and dance at your local Stagecoach

S

TAGECOACH teaches theatre skills to 4–18 year olds.

Soon they begin to move more freely, to speak more clearly and easily, become confident and self-aware – skills that they learn for life.

STAGECOA0C1H 2

SUMMER 2 WORKSHOP rd ly 3Oth - Aug 3

Ju

!!ENROL NOW!!

Schools are open in term time for three hours at weekends. There’s no audition—all they need is enthusiasm.

For a Prospectus call Stagecoach Stirling now on:

0131 337 7774 stirling@stagecoach.co.uk

STAGECOACH THEATRE ARTS SCHOOLS www.stagecoach.co.uk

off the page

FOR INFORMATION 01786 432383 OR www.stirling.gov.uk/offthepage

STIRLING

BOOK FESTIVAL

8-15 September 2012

Alan Bissett

Sally M

Julia Donaldson

agnuss

on

Featuring an exciting line-up of writers, poets and entertainers in a wide-ranging celebration of the written word

• Exhibition Galleries • The Hall of Heroes • Wallace’s Famous Battle Sword • Panoramic Views • Live Actor Performances • Gift & Souvenir Shop • Woodland Walks

• Hear the stories of The Battle of Stirling Bridge!

• Come face to face with a soldier from Wallace’s army • Hear how battles were fought and won - with the weapons of Wallace’s time

Pete rM

ay

Mark B

eaumo n

t

Live presentations Wednesdays, Saturdays & Sundays

Brought to you by Stirling Council Libraries

Relax and unwind at...

• Speciality Coffees • Cakes & Sandwiches • Wraps & Paninis • Freshly Made Soups

The National Wallace Monument

Abbey Craig | Hillfoots Road | Causewayhead | Stirling FK9 5LF www.nationalwallacemonument.com Open Every Day | Tel: (01786) 472140