Families Edinburgh March/April 2019

IN THIS ISSUE Easter Fun What's On Clubs & Classes

Issue 113 March / April 2019

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2 Families Edinburgh

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Welcome to the March/April issue packed full of Easter fun

news and

views

Gandeys Circus

What’s inside...

3-5

Local News and Views

6-7

Clubs and Classes News

8

A Survival Guide to Holiday Car Travel

9

Family Holiday Ideas

10

How to Make a Bird Cafe

11

Help! My Child Has to go to the Eye Hospital

Gandeys Circus returns to Edinburgh with a new actionpacked family production! The Greatest Show Tour brings over 30 international circus artistes to Sighthill Park from Saturday 13 to Monday 22 April.

Performing high in the roof of the Big Top, The Gerlings walk, dance, and ride a bike on a single silver thread. A ‘rubber man’ contorts into shapes you didn’t realise were possible. Our courageous Cubans launch themselves off the springboard. Jacqui and Brandon delight with a romantic aerial ballet on the silks, and Gina displays mystical artistry and poise on the low wire. Acrobats balance, tumble and bounce on a Russian bar… there’s electrifying excitement from the African Warriors… and bellyfuls of laughter as Europe’s favourite clown Chico Rico returns!

Top it off with adrenaline-fuelled antics in the space wheel, and motorbikes in the ‘globe of death’. You’ve never seen anything like it!

With production numbers inspired by the West End, in a fully-heated big top of A Million Dreams, this truly is The Greatest Show! All seats £7.99 on Saturday 13 April at 7.30pm. All seats two-for-one on Friday 19 April (no voucher required).

Discounted family tickets available. For tour dates, times, prices and bookings visit: gandeyscircus.com.

We have a family ticket for the 6.30pm show (on your choice of night between Monday 15 to Thursday 18 April) Head over to our Facebook page to enter.

Win!

Murrayfield Nursery

Win!

12 - 13 Easter Fun Around Edinburgh 14 - 17 Easter Camps and Activities 18 - 23 Out and About

Get in Touch T

0131 622 0405

E

editor@familiesedinburgh.com @FamiliesEdinburghMagazine @Familiesedinbur

The Murrayfield Nursery continues to develop and grow and over the winter the team have continued with refurbishing all the rooms, taking into account what the children are interested in. They have also focussed on outdoor play, despite the weather, developing the eco-garden and spending as much time as possible on Forest School. The nursery is always a busy place, and this year is no exception, but there will be some spaces this summer as the older children move on to school, so do get in touch if you are interested in having a look around the nursery and finding out a bit more about what they have on offer.

Win! Family ticket (4) for In The Willows on 27th March at Festival Theatre, Edinburgh The classic story leaps into the twenty first century with ballads, beats and backflips! For ages 6+ Mole’s first day in ‘The Willows’. Her classmates look a bit scary. Surely Mr Badger will look out for her, as streetwise Rattie, rich kid Toad and cheeky Otter teach her the ways of The Riverbank. But when Toad gets locked up for joyriding, the Weasel Clan break into his (lily)pad. It’s now only a matter of time before Chief Weasel reveals Mole’s dark secret…www.capitaltheatres.com Head over to our Facebook Page (facebook.com/FamiliesEdinburghMagazine) to enter.

TUTU TOTS A fantastic fun class for tiny twirlers from the age of 2 with a participating adult.

Drop in classes. No term commitment.

Tutu provided.

Check out or website for full range of classes at our North Edinburgh Dance Studio

Educational Singing Sessions for preschoolers at Skylark Cafe.

40 Hamilton Place, Stockbridge songcircle.gill@gmail.com 07973 493933

Waterfront Dance Studio Dancing Fun For Everyone!

Waterfrontdance.co.uk

07772 504958 familiesonline.co.uk

Unique • Fun • Educational For more local news for your family like us on Facebook @FamiliesEdinburghMag

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news and

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Limited spaces available for August 2019 at the ESMS Nursery

ESMS Nursery is a special place for children, aged 3 and 4. Based at our Ravelston site in the west end of Edinburgh, our Nursery children learn in a happy, stimulating and welcoming environment. We are rated ‘Excellent’ in every category assessed by the Care Inspectorate.

Experienced and highly qualified staff take time to really get to know each child ensuring their well-being and happiness is always at the heart of what we do. Specialists enhance learning through regular PE, Music, Forest Kindergarten, ICT and Library sessions.

Children who join the ESMS family of schools at Nursery level do not need to be assessed.

We have a limited number of spaces available for August 2019 and we would love to show you our amazing facilities and the happy, engaged children. Please contact Mrs Sarah Russell at nursery@esms.org.uk for more information or to arrange a personal tour.

For information about admissions please contact our Admissions Manager, Mrs Aoife MacKenzie, at admissions@esms.org.uk or on 0131 311 1111.

4 Families Edinburgh

Host an International Student Increasing numbers of families are benefiting from an international cultural experience in their own home and earning some pocket money at the same time.

Academic Families hosts, Sue and John, have welcomed teenagers from a variety of countries over the years. Sue explains that she enjoys supporting an international child settle in and understand British culture and family life however, they have benefitted as a family too and she highlights the impact hosting has had on her own children.

“They love learning what, how and why we do things and it’s very interesting for us to understand their culture too. Personally, I have found it very rewarding helping new children find their feet quickly.

We see our children being considerate and welcoming hosts.

After some initial encouragement from us, they now step up every time and their social skills have really developed.”

Hosts are carefully matched with children and fully supported by Academic Families – the only Scottish based AEGIS accredited guardianship agency. Expenses are reimbursed including a nightly allowance so hosts aren’t out of pocket.

Bonnie Bairn is excited to be hosting a Premium Pregnancy & Family fair at Edinburgh Corn Exchange on Sunday 10th March.

Whether you have a young family or a baby on the way, the fair gives you a fantastic opportunity to meet some of the best family orientated businesses in Edinburgh and the Lothians. Offering inspiring talks, informative workshops and a wide range of taster sessions, along with Premium goody bags, an Epic prize draw and much more, this really is a day not to be missed!

Book your tickets at www.bonnie-bairn.co.uk/tickets.

Use code FAM35 for 35% discount

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Inviting a child to your home for the weekend is only the beginning and before you know it, you will have family links and invitations all around the world. What could be a better preparation for your children in our increasingly global world?

Contact Academic Families to learn more about supporting an international student info@academicfamilies.com 0131 331 3317

Last Minute Simple World Book Day Costumes Ah, dressing up for world book day. What a lovely idea. What a lovely idea if it’s not something that is presented to you over breakfast on the day it’s happening!

One year as I was making the packed lunches my daughter appeared in front of me asking where we kept the viking helmets and diamonds…So, with World Book Day coming up on 7 March you might want to head over to www.worldbookday.com/dressing-up to arm yourself with a few ideas.

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St George’s Junior School and Nursery Activity Open Morning

CUCINEMA A fun way to learn about the basics of animation, a family-orientated workshop for everyone. No previous knowledge or experience is necessary, just enthusiasm and a sense of fun!

After a short practical introduction about how to draw and paint on film, with examples of what sorts of sequences of images are most effective, you will create your own section of animated film with easy to use materials. Participants will also use simple, effective foley techniques to record an accompanying soundtrack and music for the finished film.

Towards the end of the workshop, while your section of film is being edited with everyone else’s into one whole film, you can, if you like, assist the Cucinema company members to make a simple dinner of pasta with tomato sauce all participants. Everyone then eats together and watches the film they have all contributed to the making of.

Southside Community Centre, Saturday 13 April, 0131 667 0484, southsidecommunitycentre.co.uk For exact workshop timings, please visit www.puppetanimation.org

St George’s is running an Activity Open Morning for families who are interested in finding out about St George’s Junior School and Nursery (from 3 – 9 years) on Saturday 16 March from 9.30am – 11.30am.

Visiting girls are invited to take part in some action-packed activities including hands-on science, outdoor learning in our Fantastical Forest, sport and art.

For parents, this is an informal opportunity to meet and talk to staff. As part of our welcome talk, you will hear about class sizes, our girls-only ethos and the broad and enriching curriculum we provide. Beyond the classroom, you will hear about the range of activities and new experiences we offer, including our extensive Outdoor Learning programme, designed to inspire and challenge your daughter.

Over the last year we have extended our school transport service. We now offer morning and evening transport in Edinburgh, the Lothians and Fife.

Find out more http://bit.ly/2Bn3whk, or contact our Admissions Department T: 0131 311 8008, E: admissions@stge.org.uk

Enjoy British Science Week

Nappuccino

Families can enjoy wonder-full time together during British Science Week 2019 which will take place from 8 to 17 March. Download a series of FREE activity packs at www.britishscienceweek.org filled with resources and ideas to try out at home or school, without the need for a science background or expensive equipment. To find an event close to you, visit www.sciencelive.net

Nappuccino at the Pregnancy and Parents Centre is 10-11.30am on Friday 5th April Demos and preloved sales (cash only). Come along if you’re new to cloth or a seasoned pro who’d like to share their experience. Tea and coffee by donation to the PPC. We look forward to seeing you!

The Bo’ness & Kinneil Railway & Museum of Scottish Railways – fun for the kids Make the most of your visit to central Scotland’s family friendly steam railway and museum when our 2019 season starts on 23 March.

Come travel on our steam railway and enjoy Scotland’s largest railway museum. You can show your old fashioned ticket to the Guard, he may even let you help him clip it on the journey! Watch the engine being coupled up to the carriages … is it really magnets that hold them together? Be Harry Potter in a compartment carriage with its own sliding door. Then enjoy some fun with our brass rubbings on the Visitor Trail to the Museum. In the museum, get hands on and discover railway history through fun interactive displays, have fun sorting letters in the Travelling Post Office! Come along and have a great day out! Bo’ness and Kinneil Railway, Union Street, Bo’ness EH51 OAQ www.bkrailway.co.uk

Enqui now f re summ or e space r s

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clubs&classEs ©BBC/Syco/Thames/Tom Dymond

EdInburgh dancE acadEMy

PortobEllo MusIc school

EDA, recently voted highest ranked dance school in the UK and Ireland offers classes and exams in RAD Ballet, the faculty being led by RAD Ballet examiner Julie Mitchell. We also offer classes in Commercial, Pre School Dance (for those little movers!), Jazz, Modern, Tap, Acro, Turns and Limbering, Progressing Ballet Technique, Contemporary (led by i-d Dance examiner Jenni Inglis), Competition and much more! (Including performing each year at the King's Panto).

Huge congratulations to EDA pupil, Ellie, who as this issue of Families went to print, had just won BBC 1’s The Greatest Dancer!

So this year we will be running Greatest Dancer Easter Days of Dance, please look out for more info coming soon!

We pride ourselves on our high standards and constantly apply ourselves to be the best but the most important thing is that all of our pupils are cared for, nurtured and have FUN!!

Portobello Music School is delighted to be in its 13th year with over 350 students from babies to teens attending its Saturday music classes. Children up to primary 2 age attend a series of progressive creative music classes which prepare them for group instrumental lessons starting in primary 3. Children can choose from a wide range of instruments including: flute, clarinet, saxophone, violin, cello, guitar, piano and drums, taught by an enthusiastic team of highly experienced music teachers. As well as receiving instrumental tuition, children also attend weekly musicianship classes which develop essential aural skills and music theory.

We provide these classes from primary 3 to primary 7 after which time children can either continue with us having individual lessons or we can prepare them to study part-time at the junior departments of Edinburgh Napier University or the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland. Some children have also gone on to study full-time at Edinburgh Music School and the prestigious Yehudi Menuhin School.

Online enrolment for August 2019 opens to new members after the Easter school break

song cIrclE

JoIn all stars crIckEt today!

All Stars Cricket is a programme aimed at children aged 5-8 years old to give them a great first experience in cricket. Sessions are accredited by the England & Wales Cricket Board and delivered nationwide at over 2,000 centres. All Stars Cricket will help your child develop key skills in a fun and safe environment where parents can join in too and help create #BigMoments you’ll both treasure!

Following successful registration, All Stars Cricketers will receive a brand-new kit bag full of goodies to help them get their summer of cricket started and fully look the part when they attend their 8 weekly sessions. This year we have a brand-new Cricket World Cup themed activity book that is full of top tips, games and, it’s a great place to keep those weekly stickers to celebrate your All Star's achievements. Plus, it’s all delivered straight to your door.

To find out more about how to get involved this summer, simply visit www.allstarscricket.co.uk and get your place booked as session begin May 2019.

Singing with babies and toddlers is known to stimulate development and Song Circle in Skylark Cafe, Stockbridge provides a warm welcome, fresh brewed coffee and pots of tea with plenty of chocolate biscuits in the break. You and your wee one will learn a whole lot of songs, poems and action songs and enjoy the benefits of releasing feel good endorphins and meeting new friends. The groups are small and the room bright and cheery and Scottish folk singer and songwriter Gill Bowman has structured her classes to include some dancing and percussion.

MON - FRI 9.10am &10.30am (must be booked) Also Monday 3.10pm and Saturday 10.30am (drop in) Text 07973493933 or email songcircle.gill@gmail.com

at www.portobellomusicschool.com

InstItut françaIs d’EcossE Enrolment is open for the Institut français d’Ecosse’s Spring and Summer terms, offering weekly classes for children and teens at all levels of French mastery, in addition to after-school clubs, holiday exam preparation (all levels, Scottish and English exams), Holiday MiniCamps, and Summer Camps for kids and teens.

We also offer a broad selection of courses for adults.

Book before April 2nd to benefit from early bird rates for the Spring term. info@ifecosse.org.uk

dancE for all Did you know you could book 2 trial sessions at Dance For All? RAD Ballet, ISTD Tap, SDA Spanish, Contemporary, Modern Jazz and Acrobatic dance classes available. “My daughter has been attending for 7 years and has never once grumbled about it. It has helped her self-confidence enormously.” ~ Sophie, mum to 11yr old pupil.

Dance For All's popular Summer School is back this August! An energy filled, funpacked week of dance, choreography & musical theatre for enthusiastic young dancers (6 to 16yrs), culminating in an exciting studio performance. 5th - 9th Aug; 9.30-3.30pm; £150 with 10% off per sibling.

Established in 1985, Dance For All, nurtures pupils aged 2½ - 18yrs to enjoy, and excel, in the finest dance genres. Principal, Tracy Hawkes, leads an inspirational faculty of staff in delivering professional dance training and over 70 weekly child, teen & adult classes. Browse testimonials, timetables, photos & more on www.danceforall.co.uk or call 0131 226 5533.

Scottish dancing is fun, great exercise and a good way to make new friends Classes to suit all abilities

Expert teachers and live music

The Church of the Good Shepherd 15 Murrayfield Avenue, Edinburgh EH12 6AU

Find out more at www.rscdsedinburgh.org Contact us info@rscdsedinburgh.org

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clubs&classEs MonkEy draMa Monkey Drama public classes are suitable for children age 2 and a half up to P3 and we offer a 2 week trial for £13 so you can try before committing to the term. We are excited to be making plans for classes for P3 and above and expanding our work within schools and nurseries as well as offering amazing all inclusive party packages!

We are also working on plans for our summer camps so make sure you keep an eye in our Facebook and website! www.monkeydrama.co.uk alana@monkeydrama.co.uk 07736298013

dn dancE babIEs DN Dance Babies is a brand new activity for babies, toddlers and their adults in the Edinburgh area. As a new offering from the city’s well-known DN Dance school, you can expect DN Dance Babies classes to be professional, safe and specifically-designed for little ones aged from 6 months to 3 years.

Even if your baby hasn't yet taken their first step, it's never too early to discover the joy of dance. DN Dance Babies classes use a combination of music and imagination to take little ones on a magical adventure where movement to music forms the foundations of dance technique.

The team has planned class content and length to be the perfect fit for babies and toddlers at each stage. Each of the classes is designed for children and adults to attend together, and takes place in a fun, relaxed and welcoming environment.

Classes launch in three locations from March, with bookings open now for Corstorphine, Davidson's Mains and Ferry Road venues. dndancebabies.co.uk

MInI frEnch™ For a brain-boosting activity where the whole family will benefit make sure to check out Mini French™ and, new to 2019, Mini Spanish! When is the best time to start languages? The answer to that question is always - now! And Felicity & her team can show you how. The Music & Movement methodology is highly engaging and has you learning from WEEK ONE. Book online or contact Felicity, founder of Mini Languages and Mum to three bilingual children, who is always happy to chat! P.s. keep a lookout for “MiniVille” - the new online language learning portal due for release this summer! www.minifrench.co.uk or Facebook/MiniSpanish

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Jack and JIll Jack and Jill’s Music Fun for Tots offer weekly music classes for children aged 0-5 and their accompanying adult (and siblings!). Classes take place in Marchmont, at St Catherine's Argyle Church on Grange Road.

Led by a qualified teacher and experienced musician, classes explore the world of music through singing, movement, playing and listening to live music. With props such as puppets and scarves to enhance the experience.

Due to popular demand, additional classes will be running in 2019, with classes on Wednesday and Friday mornings.

For more more information and to book your place, contact Mary on info@jackandjill-music.co.uk

rElax kIds and baby MIndful classEs Thursday and Friday in Tollcross.

Weekly Baby Mindful and Relax Kids classes.

Ages 0-6 months, 3-5 years and 5-9 years See website for more details.

Healing for Kids 20 Valleyfield Street Edinburgh Contact Jess van Lieshout info@healingforkids.scot www.healingforkids.scot

Relax Kids and Baby Mindful Classes Thursday and Friday at Healing for Kids 20 Valleyfield Street, Edinburgh www.relaxkids.com

www.babymindful.com

Contact Jess van Lieshout info@healingforkids.scot www.healingforkids.scot

Next Issue May/June 2019 suMMeR CAMPs & CLuBs Book now - 0131 622 0405 Book now - 0131 622 0405 editor@familiesedinburgh.co.uk editor@familiesedinburgh.co.uk

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Are We Nearly There Yet? A Survival Guide to Holiday Car Travel

By Claire Winter

Spring is here and it’s possible you may be heading away during the Easter holidays or, if not, in the months to come. Many families opt to travel to their holiday destinations in the UK or Europe by car which can be economical and also means you can generally take more luggage. The trick is how to survive these trips without things turning nasty in the backseat.

Be Realistic

Bring Plenty of Snacks

It’s All about Audiobooks

Take into account unscheduled loo stops, unexpected car sickness and getting lost despite having an excellent Sat Nav and Google Maps.

Pack a cool bag or lunchbox full of snacks for each child and adult (you don’t want a ‘hangry’ driver). If you don’t want the kids going loopy from eating too much sugar, try sugar-free lollies. But remember most sugar-free sweets eaten in large quantities may have a laxative effect! Travel early or late. Get on the road early to beat traffic jams or leave after rush hour or even later. Just pop the kids in PJs and eventually they will fall asleep and hopefully sleep through the journey.

Many families have given up on reading and watching films in the car because of carsickness, but audio books are always a winner! The whole family can listen to all the Harry Potter books, some Roald Dahl classics and many other favourites.

You can borrow audiobooks from the library or download them onto your phone and sync it with the car’s stereo. We also create holiday playlists with everyone’s favourite music on them too.

Take Gadgets Digital devices such as iPads, Kindles or similar are great for long journeys but do not peak too soon! Car journeys are also a great opportunity to talk to your kids and have some really fun and more in-depth conversations than usual. Equally, listening to music on the radio or on CDs can be a great shared activity. Golden oldies, in particular, can spark conversations of the “Remember when ….” variety. Save the gadgets for when things start getting tricky. You can whip out a fully charged iPad when they have asked ‘are we nearly there yet?’ for the tenth time or started turning on each other in a menacing way. Be sure to bring portable chargers so you can recharge your devices. A headphone-splitter is also a great invention, as this allows two children to plug headphones into the same device.

Games are Good Top Trumps, travel games and story dice are all winners when it comes to travelling in the car.

Kids also love a drawing pad and felt tips. Make sure they don’t draw or look down for too long though as this can often cause car sickness.

Don’t overload the car interior. Try not to shove things into every seat well. If the kids are comfortable they are less likely to moan! Just pack stuff into the boot or invest in a roof box.

Don’t Forget the Essentials Baby wipes, tissues, water, travel sickness medicine, snacks (never forget the snacks!), different layers of clothing, a bag for rubbish (this can double up as a sick bag too but hopefully you won’t need it)!

Remember to Have FUN Last but not least, don’t forget your sense of humour. Things often go wrong when small people are involved. Family time isn’t all hearts and flowers and learning to cope with friction and setbacks are all part of life’s big adventure. The journey to a destination can be just as fun if you decide it’s going to be!

Asthma • Eczema Coughs • Colds?

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Some of the benefits that your child can experience after 100% natural salt Recommended from 6 months therapy treatments are: • Breathe easier.

• Alleviate sneezing, coughing and shortness of breath.

• Improved ability to cope with triggers that provoke respiratory illnesses.

0131 297 5555 33-35 Marionville Road, Edinburgh, EH7 5UD

www.edinburghsaltrooms.co.uk

8 Families Edinburgh

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Family Holiday Ideas Summer in the Alps The Alps may be an obvious destination for the ski season, but how about a summer visit?

Summer offers enough green (the mountains) and blue (the sky) to set you up for the whole year - and plenty of fresh air to fill your families’ lungs.

With reasonably priced flights from Edinburgh to Geneva then a short drive to Morzine, there is a warm welcome waiting from Paul and Francesca Eyre at Chilly Powder. With the main chalet - Au Coin du Feu - plus two chalets next door, you can organise your own meals, or join the party at ‘Au Coin du Feu’ for dinners that you usually only dream of. Family friendly early evening meals for the children and a daytime crèche for little ones not quite as active as you, with drinks in the bar for the grown ups – or in the Jacuzzi on the terrace – Paul and Francesca will make you wish that this was home!

For more about Chilly Powder chalets for summer and winter visit www.chillypowder.com and more about summer in Morzine visit en.morzine-avoriaz.com/activities/summer-activities/

Family holidays on your doorstep You don’t have to travel far to enjoy a fantastic family holiday.

Elie Holiday Park, for example, is a real hidden gem and offers a fine selection of Castaway holiday home accommodation nestled behind the beach, or close to forest walks with spectacular meadow views. It’s also home to the impressive (free) Robinson Crusoe Adventure Park, the superb Kincraig View Restaurant and must-visit Mirador Café serving some of the best barista coffee – come for the day and you’ll want to stay longer.

Located close to the pretty East Neuk villages of Elie, Pittenweem and Ansruther, Elie Holiday Park is set on the Fife Coastal Path at Shell Bay (great for relaxing on the beach or rock pooling at low tide) and is bordered by expansive forest walks (look out for deer and red squirrels).

During the school holidays there’s free evening entertainment and free football coaching sessions too. With all this on your doorstep it’s no surprise that Elie Holiday Park has been voted the Best Visitor Attraction in Fife and awarded Scotland's Best Family Holiday Park runner up.

Castaway (forest) holiday homes at Elie Holiday Park. 4 nights from £256 per family at Easter. Book online at abbeyford.com

Dreaming of a family retreat to South West France this summer?

Nestled in the heart of the stunning Dordogne, Le Chevrefeuille B&B and selfcatering is the ideal family holiday haven.

Approved by leading UK preschool tour operators, Le Chevrefeuille is easy to reach with low-cost direct flights from Edinburgh to Bergerac and Bordeaux. This stunning accommodation has won Tripadvisor’s Certificate of Excellence every year since opening and is centrally located to Dordogne’s most famous tourist sites.

Onsite there’s ample kid-friendly entertainment: toy-room, pool with safety fence, animals, bikes and beautiful grassed play area. All baby equipment is provided and for kids of all ages: babysitting!

Parents will love the stunning poolside views, beautifully appointed rooms and cottages and award-winning cookery school. For a unique experience, sign up for the highly acclaimed family cookery course - it’s fun, educational and a great opportunity for some family bonding time!

Quote ‘Families Edinburgh’ for a 5% discount off all bookings (outwith July and August).

Visit www.dordognefamilyholiday.com for more information on this blissful family retreat!

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Let’s Make a Spring Bird Café The Easter holidays will soon be here, and, this being the UK, the sun may not always shine. So why not use one of those rainy or chilly days to celebrate the arrival of spring and get creative making this fun craft project created by our friends at Wonderbly?

You can make your own (really) small family business with an upcycled milk carton and get to feed the local bird population at the same time. Let’s get ready for the bird café opening day!

Here’s how to do it.............

First things first, grab your (empty) milk carton. Take your ruler and get your child assistant to measure and trace two flaps for awnings and a hole for the birds. Your team’s builder can then cut the holes.

Step 1

You will need: • A milk carton • A paper plate • A pencil

Time to get creative.

Paint the milk carton and paper plate to make your building and outdoor area. For sharper colour, give your milk carton two coats.

Step 2

Step 3

It’s all in the details.

Tile your roof by painting them on with the brush, and adorn your awnings.

We used decorative tape, but you can paint or colour in with pens and pencils.

• A ruler • Scissors or a Stanley knife (for adults only) • Paint (use acrylic paint if you want it to go outside but make sure you wear an overall or apron as it doesn't wash out!).

• Bell and paper clip (optional) • Decorative tape (optional) • Bobbins and mini umbrellas • Dowel or BBQ sticks • Yummy seeds • Flappy customers

Get your bird café Step 4 customer-ready. Add a doorbell (obviously) by rolling a paper clip around a pencil, thread the bell into it and push it through the milk carton. Make some bunting using thread and decorative tape. You can even make a window plant box by folding up some paper and gluing it underneath one of the awnings.

While you’re doing the fiddly bits, let your child one make their café’s sign with some cardboard and paint.

Let them paint with their fingers for more sensory fun! Leave to dry, and then help the café owner write their name with a marker before you cut and glue it.

Step 5

Almost time for the grand opening. Get the kids to stock the café with seeds. Birds especially love sunflower seeds and peanuts.

Step 6

Nearly ready! Grownups, make a little ‘X’ with the Stanley knife below the seed hole and push a piece of dowel or a cocktail stick through.

Finally, pop some tables and parasols outside for your first customers. Bobbins and mini umbrellas are perfect for this, or you could use corks and leaves if you want more plants.

Take your bird cafe outside for the birds to enjoy or play inside with your own paper birds, you decide!

Wonderbly creates beautiful, personalised children’s books that inspire courage, curiosity, and kindness in children all over the world. A treat for any curious little mind. Find out more at www.wonderbly.com

Step 7

Children’s Music Classes from birth to teens • New baby and toddler classes • Creative music classes (Preschool to P2) • Individual and group instrumental classes (P3 to teens) • New musicianship classes (P3+) • ABRSM Music Medal Syllabus Enrol at www.portobellomusicschool or tel: 0131 623 2513

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HeLP! My child has to go to the eye hospital Being told your child has an eye condition that requires further treatment or investigation at the hospital can be a very scary prospect.

Downes Opticians specialises in children’s eyecare and has a very strong working relationship with the Eye Hospital (Princes Alexandra Eye Pavilion).

They regularly refer patients and between them help provide the best care for our precious little people.

“I can wax lyrical about how important it is to have your child’s eyes tested by an Optometrist rather than just relying on the pre-school screening, especially as it is free and fully funded by the NHS - in short, all children should have an opticians eye examination before the age of 8” The majority of children’s eye problems can be simply rectified with glasses or eye exercises which can be looked after by your friendly Optometrist.

If, however your child requires further investigations or treatments you may be referred to the Eye hospital to see either an Orthoptist (a person who has specifically trained to deal with squinting or lazy eyes) or a paediatric Ophthalmologist, a surgeon who specialises in children specific eye problems.

Your initial consultation will be similar, if not a little more hectic, than your visit to the Opticians.

WHO WILL YOU BE SEEN BY

Parents perspective Sam Miller, an Edinburgh based illustrator has attended the Eye hospital with her daughter on a number of occasions and has some helpful advice.

1. The outside of the building can appear a bit imposing, so if your child feels intimidated by it you can reassure them that inside it is bright and friendly.

2.

The waiting time can be quite variable, we have been there for a few hours and also for a few minutes. As it is also an adult's hospital there is no play area so you might want to take toys or a book for your child to keep them amused while you are waiting to be called.

3.

The staff are very knowledgeable and clear, explaining any procedure they need to do and making sure your child is comfortable. If you or your child are worried or need any more information don't be afraid to ask questions, the staff are definitely keen to make sure you understand what is happening and that you are both comfortable with what they are doing.

4.

Although it can be very worrying and frightening as your child's eyes seem so fragile I can reassure you that our experience with the Eye Pavilion has been completely positive - the staff are experienced, friendly and caring.

The Orthoptist Orthoptists have trained at University to specifically deal with squints and lazy eyes. With the Orthoptist you may find you are sharing a room with many other children and Orthoptists, so this can be a little scary or distracting for both you and your child. However, please remember your Orthoptist is a specialist who works daily in these conditions and can retrieve the required measurements with amazing speed and accuracy.

The Ophthalmologist If your appointment is with the Ophthalmologist this will usually be in a private room, again it will possibly appear to you as a quick check, especially after possibly a long wait but these are very skilled and experienced professionals who can extrapolate information and measurements in what appears like a blink of an eye.

It is indeed likely that you will meet both these health care professionals at your initial consultation.

The dreaded drops It is most likely that your child will need to have drops - yup those stinging sore ones that blur their vision and make their pupils huge. Your child may have already experienced these at their Optometrists appointment and will quite possibly never wish to have them again. But they are an essential way to determine the most accurate prescription for your child’s eyes and allow the most thorough health check, it is unfortunately a necessary evil. The good news is that these do not have to be used at every appointment.

As Quick as a Flash Often the consultation can be quick, and you may leave feeling like you have been bamboozled with information and advice. You will receive a letter explaining your child’s consultation and if after receiving this you are not fully happy, I would advise taking this along to your Optometrist as they will be able to take the time to explain the jargon and answer any questions.

Sams work can be viewed at www.sammiller.co.uk Or follow her on facebook @SamMillerUK for daily updates.

Clare Downes of Downes Opticians Leith and North Berwick has a specialist interest in children’s eye care and both practices and staffprovide a fun, friendly and welcoming environment for you and your children.

Appointments can be booked via the website www.downesopticians.com or Leith:0131 553 5358 or NB: 01620 893007.

SPECIALIST CHILDREN’S EYE CARE CLINICS: DYSLEXIA MYOPIA VISUAL STRESS CONTROL EYE EXAMINATIONS

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Hop along for some

Easter Fun EastEr at natIonal MInIng MusEuM scotland Easter Bunny Hunt 5th – 22nd April 2019 If you’re taking a Pithead Tour during the Easter holidays remember to pick up your FREE Easter Bunny Hunt sheet! Find all the bunnies and collect your prize at reception!

Easter Puppet Making Workshop on 21 April at 11am Make your own cone puppet in our Easter workshop. £2.50 per child. nationalminingmuseum.cloudvenue.co.uk/easterpup petmakingworkshop

Easter Sunday Lunch (12 - 5pm) Come along and enjoy a 3 course Easter lunch with the family in our beautiful Power House. Every child under 16 will receive a FREE Easter egg!

To book contact Opulent Catering on 0131 654 6474.

See website for menu.

Adults (13+) £25 per head, Children (0-12) £12 per head.

EastEr at thE castlE Join us for our annual family Easter event at Lauriston Castle on April 21 which kicks off our 2019 events programme. There will be trails, games and crafts as well as lots of chocolate treats! Of course, there will be our annual egg and spoon race. £7 per person. 10am - 1pm Please ring Lauriston Castle on 0131 336 2060 to book or book online.

12 Families Edinburgh

coME to conIfox thIs EastEr for an “EggcEllant” tIME. Join us in the Adventure Park for our amazing Easter Egg Scavenger Hunt (15th – 21st April). Find the clues hidden around the park by the Easter bunny and hop along to the next one. Once you have found all the clues you will receive a goody bag of sweeties from the cabin. Find the magical golden egg and get a special prize. Head along to the marquee where we will be doing an Easter craft event.

Whilst in the park come play on our new berg race karts and choppers.

Stables Bistro will have a delicious lamb roast available on Easter Sunday between 12pm and 4pm. Call 0131 333 1444 to book your table to avoid disappointment. Our famous BBQ will also be fired up on Easter weekend (weather dependent). So come along and join us for a juicy burger and a cold refreshment on our comfy rattan furniture and enjoy the early summer sun.

Like and Share on our Facebook page to be kept up to date with all the details of the events.

EastEr Eggstravaganza The Easter Eggstravaganza is back once more for a fabulous day of egg hunting, egg painting and lots of other activities on April 21 (11am - 5pm) With the largest hedged maze in Scotland, there could be no better place for an Easter Egg Hunt. Now in its 19th year, there will be 6,000 mini eggs to be found during a series of egg hunts throughout the day and we guarantee no child will leave empty handed.

The Easter egg hunts are confined to the Under 10’s with an easter egg scramble for under 5’s in the Walled Garden.

But the event is not all about a mad rush for chocolate! There are lots of other fun, hands on activities for families including Scavenger Hunts with Big Egg prizes, Spot the Egg in the House Competition, Easter Bonnet making, musical instrument making, storytelling and face painting.

There are also lots of opportunities to decorate your own egg with eggs kindly donated by Glenrath and you can also join in with the communal decorating of the gigantic 6ft Egg which definitely is not one to be cracked!

In addition, delicious home cooked lunches and teas in our Garden Café with some home brewed Traquair Ales for the grown ups. Traquair House, Innerleithen

EastEr fun at thE scottIsh sEabIrd cEntrE Join the fun at the Scottish Seabird Centre this Easter. We have lots to keep your little ones entertained, from our daily science shows, 3D films and boat trips to our ever-popular Seabird Holiday Club.

Escape! is our new puppet show, for kids age 2+. Percy the Puffin is trying to leave his burrow to escape to the sea, but his route is a dangerous one, will he make it? Older kids (5+) can help Professor Egghead use robots in his fantastic new science show Ro-bish Removals. Kids will learn how robots can be used to remove plastics from the ocean.

Shows start from 12 April. www.seabird.org

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Easter Fun EastEr bonnEt ParadE Sunday 21 April 1 - 4pm Celebrate Easter at the Palace of Holyroodhouse. Visit our Family Room to make and decorate your very own Easter Bonnet. Wear your bonnet to explore the Palace using our new Easter trail, then join us in the Great Gallery for a fabulous Easter Bonnet Parade at 15:30 This event is free with a Palace ticket or a 1 – Year Pass.

EastEr EggcItEMEnt 30th March - 22nd April Easter weekend at the end of the holidays 19th - 22nd April Throughout the Easter school break, the farm is alive with the cheeps and bleats of baby animals, who will be introduced to you at handling and encounter sessions. Grab your clue sheet, sharpen your pencil, and tear around the farm collecting clues on the springtime trail. Keep a look out for hidden eggs that might win you a prize. In the craft area you can make bonnets, masks and other springtime decorations. There will be still further special attractions over the four days of Easter (19th to the 22nd April), including our famous plastic duck race along the mill lade. Almond Valley Heritage Centre, Livingston.

cadbury EastEr Egg hunts natIonal trust for scotland Bring the whole family together this Easter and treat your loved ones to the magic of our Cadbury Easter Egg Hunts across Scotland! Get ready for a long weekend of fun as you and your family discover the special places the National Trust for Scotland looks after. Follow bunny’s clues and complete your adventure to win a delicious chocolatey prize.

Find out more: nts.org.uk/easter

thE botanIcs bunny EastEr traIl Saturday 6 – 22 April 2019, 10am – 6pm daily.

Join the Botanics Bunny on a quest to explore new frontiers in our family Easter Trail! Complete the trail and receive your yummy Easter treat. Supported by Mackies of Scotland.

Suitable for ages 3+ Pick up a trail booklet from the John Hope Gateway reception Price: £2 per trail map.

Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh, Entrances on Inverleith Row and Arboretum Place, Edinburgh. www.rbge.org.uk

EastEr holIday actIvItIEs and EvEnts for EvEryonE at dynaMIc Earth Dive into the deep this Spring at Dynamic Earth with hands-on, familyfriendly activities and crafts. Jump into our time machine and blast off on an adventure to experience the primeval forces of our planet. actIvItIEs frEE wIth adMIssIon, 10aM-4PM.

EastEr Egg sPEcIals at bo’nEss & kInnEIl raIlway Good Friday, Easter Saturday, Sunday and Monday 19th, 20th, 21st, & 22nd April A free tasty Easter treat for every child. Wear your traditional Easter Bonnet for the chance to win a prize and have fun in the Museum hunting the Easter Eggs!

oPEratIon fun: EastEr at fort douglas Fort Douglas adventure park has ramped up the fun factor with their latest addition: Sky Maze. Just a year after opening the Zip Wires, this breathtaking new section features a thrilling network of sky-high, twisting, turning walkways, treehouses, glass floors, rope bridges and huge slides created for brave young adventurers and their adults (yes, you can play too).

Sky Maze means everyone can let their imaginations (and their feet) run wild.

Plus, this Easter, there’s a fantastic programme of daily additional activities complimentary with entry. Every day throughout the holidays your littlies can take part in balloon twisting, spaghetti architecture, creating mini big hotels and more. Over Easter Weekend itself join in our Easter Egg Hunt, bonnet and crown making. And on 20th April come to our open-air cinema screenings. What’s more, it’s all set within the immense fresh air of a 2,000 acre park besides a gorgeous café and fabulous shopping just a few miles from Edinburgh. Epic.

Visit www.dalkeithcountrypark.co.uk

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Easter Camps, Clubs and Workshops School holidays can be a great opportunity for kids to spend more time doing something they love.

As well as that, at a club or camp, your child will probably learn new skills, grow in confidence and make new friends.

Various studies have shown that extra curricular activities can have a positive impact on a child, both academically and socially.

Have a look through the next few pages where you can find everything from Art to Zipping (down a hill). If you get in touch tell them you found them in Families Edinburgh Magazine. ©Andrew Grieveson

sEabIrd holIday club Seabird Holiday Club will run from the 8 - 12 April. Primary aged children will have the chance to join in with a whole host of activities with our Education Officer, Fran. Learning lots about the local environment, rock formations, chemical eruptions and not forgetting lots of outdoor fun!

Check our website for further details www.seabird.org

whIzzkIds

chIldrEn’s EastEr holIdays clay workshoPs at doodlEs Play with clay on the morning of the 9th, 10th and 11th April. 10.30-12.30pm daily.

Cost is £20 per session, please call us on 0131 229 1399

14 Families Edinburgh

Whizzkids is offering a range of computer courses this Easter for children aged 5 and up. In the ever-popular Raspberry Pi course children can learn the basics of the pocket-sized computer including programming Minecraft through the Python language, setting up LEDs and buzzers and creating fun games. With lots of new activities those who have already attended the course can come back to develop their skills further. Those new to coding might like the Scratch course. Children can make fun games and animations with the easy-to-use Scratch programming language. If coding’s not for you then there’s desktop publishing, project creation, PowerPoint, touch-typing, computer art, educational games and a general computer skills course. For the more advanced there’s the OCR ITQ course which leads to a computing qualification. For further details on the courses, or to book, please e-mail gillian@whizzkids.uk.com, see the website at www.whizzkids.uk.com or call 0131 447 5893.

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EdInburgh lEIsurE Not sorted your holiday childcare? Sign up your children to the ‘biggest holiday club in town’ at one of Edinburgh Leisure’s seven venues across the city this Easter. They’ll be getting active and having fun in a reliable, safe setting.

Open Monday to Friday from 9am – 5pm, it has early drop offs at 8am and late pick ups at 6pm. Every day is packed full of games, sports, arts, crafts, drama, challenges and educational activities. Kids can try a wide range of sports camps including gymnastics, tennis, diving, climbing, and much more. Full week or daily bookings available for kids from P1-P7. Special NRG Zone sessions are available at select venues to keep S1-S5 pupils active and get accredited for our gyms. Book before the end of February for Easter and save 10%. We will also be Edinburgh Leisure runs Holiday Clubs during the Easter, Summer, and October breaks. www.edinburghleisure.co.uk

EnJoy an actIon PackEd EastEr at thE MIdlothIan snowsPorts cEntrE, hIllEnd Whether you enjoy skiing, snowboarding or tubing, we have an activity for you!

Easter Junior and Kinder ski and snowboard camps are available from 8th – 12th April and 15th – 19th April. Running mornings or afternoons and available for all levels.

Contact reception on 0131 4454433 to check availability or request your booking at ski.midlothian.gov.uk.

For those who simply want to enjoy practice skiing, great value lift tickets are available and an added bonus is the fact that the views across Edinburgh from the chair lift are spectacular. The Tubing Runs are open every day through the Easter period, zipping down the hill in an inflatable tube is made even easier with a travelator to help you back up the slope again. It is fast, fun and exciting!

kIds EastEr holIday coursE at rEd thrEad studIo 8 - 11 April, 10am-12noon This Easter holiday we are hosting a fantastic kids sewing course! Packed full of fun & crafts, we're sure to have a great time together.

Suitable for children aged 8-12yrs and perfect for complete beginners or for those who have already done some sewing before. Be sure not to miss this!

During the week we will be learning some basic sewing techniques, and making a fun, creative Easter apron!

Our Kids' courses are especially designed for children aged of 8 - 12 years and our classes are lovely and small, enabling each child to have plenty of assistance.

Our studio is well equipped with sewing machines, cutting tables & snack area. The course will be led by Rachel Treloar, who has full PVG disclosure and is highly experienced at working with children. www.redthreadstudio.co.uk

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Easter Camps, Clubs and Workshops EastEr rugby coachIng caMPs Keep the kids active during the Easter break, whilst improving their rugby skills and techniques.

Our structured programmes will engage and educate in a fun and safe learning environment.

TotalRugby is open to players of all abilities, providing a great introduction to rugby, or an opportunity for skill development, but most importantly a fun way to spend the holidays with friends or make some new ones.

3 day Easter camp - Monday 8th April to Wednesday 10th April 2019 10am to 3.30pm - £90 for 3 days Summer dates are also available for booking, please see website for details Fettes College Playing Fields, Edinburgh, EH4 1QX (indoor facilities available if required) For more information visit www.totalrugby.org or contact us at info@totalrugby.org

kIdscEnE aftEr school and holIday club Kidscene provides after school and holiday care to children aged 416, with and without disabilities. We especially welcome children with a vision impairment and we reserve a number of spaces for partially sighted and blind children.

Our premises are within the Royal Blind School campus in Morningside, Edinburgh. Our facilities are furnished to a high standard and include a messy room, a playroom and a kitchen, all with full disabled access.

3 caMPs In onE! gaMEs at thE gatE 10% discount with code FAM10 (t & c apply) We at Games at the Gate believe that variety is the spice of life. Our Camp combines lots of different sports and activities with a fun-filled blend of dance, drama, arts and crafts and games - all of which are inspired by the kids who attend each day.

This camp is ideal if playing just one sport or activity for a week isn’t your thing and you would like a real pick and mix of fabulous activities to try. Our unique programmes have been specifically designed to ensure that we activate your body and inspire your mind, whilst having lots of fun and making new friends along the way.

We have everything from exploring the great outdoors and fun/fair access to a whole range of Sports, right through to Hair Braiding, Mask making and Face painting, Foam Dart Tag, Treasure Hunts and Drama Games, Go Karting, Crazy Olympics, Parachute Games, Kite Flying, Building and Construction, and much, much more... Phew!

Hours 8.30am - 5.30pm 8th - 18th April 2019 (not Friday, Saturday or Sunday) Flexible option of early drop off/late pick up (additional cost) £18 full day/ £9.50 half day Refer a friend price £14 per day gamesatthegate@hotmail.com or call 07515 633386 www.facebook.com/gamesatgate55

16 Families Edinburgh

Our playroom includes a chill out zone, imagination area, construction area, computer and console games, board games and puzzles, and a sensory area. We also have access to the Royal Blind School’s facilities including a hydrotherapy pool, sensory garden, soft play area and outdoor multi-use games area.

Please visit www.royalblind.org/child-care for fees and more information.

draMa studIo EastEr holIday club bookIng now!

The Drama Studio's very popular Easter Holiday Club for students aged 5-15 is running as follows: 8-12 April Liberton Kirk Halls, Kirkgate, Liberton Fantastic weeks meeting new friends, doing activities such as Drama, Art and Craft, puppets, filming, song, dance, dressing up, soft ball, parachute games, performing and outside activities weather permitting.

Different afternoon activities for every age group and a Musical Theatre Afternoon Course for age 10+.

Go to www.thedramastudio.com to HOLIDAY CLUB and read excellent Parent Reviews, more details and to register. 0131-453-3284 or e-mail info@thedramastudio.com Sibling Discounts also available. A great week guaranteed!

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Easter Camps, Clubs and Workshops ExcEl sPorts runs all sPorts EastEr caMP £195 (8th - 12th April).

Also available ART and ComputerXplorers this week.

Book online at www.excel-sports.co.uk.

We run the camps at St Georges School for children aged 5-15 years. Our friendly, experienced staff and sports coaches run the camps and the children follow a structured timetable each day. Drop off from 8am with pick up until 6pm. Day places available for All Sports £45 per day.

Summer Camps include Excel+ activity camps - Art, Tennis, ComputerXplorers, Football, Athletics, Sports Leaders Level 5, Dance, Gymnastics, Horse Riding, Canoeing, Professional Training, Swimming and Diving. NEW for 2019 – Cooking for Kids, Rookie Life Guarding and Drama. Prices vary.

Excel is a place to learn, develop and have fun. Come along and join in the Excel Experience in 2019.

InstItut françaIs d’EcossE Throughout the Spring term, the Institut français d’Ecosse will be running a series of 2-hour workshops on Friday afternoons. Young learners will be immerged in French language and culture in this new fun, inclusive and creative afterschool club programme created by l’Institut français in collaboration with Théâtre Sans Accent and Le Petit Monde. The programme will include craft, storytelling, puppetry, drama and more.

DISCOUNT code – ‘FAMILIES19’ for £15 OFF a full week booked.

We accept CHILDCARE VOUCHERS - please contact our office for details.

lookIng for a fun, EnErgEtIc EastEr holIday actIvIty? It’s tIME to ‘coME alIvE’ wIth a grEatEst showMan-thEMEd caMP froM dn dancE THE GREATEST SHOWMAN! • Monday 8th - Friday 12th April @ DN Studios, Chesser.

• Classes 9.30am - 4pm (doors open 8:30-5:00) • Open to ages 5-16 yrs • £145 Each day we cover a range of activities, looking at everything we need to put on a show, from singing, acting and dance right through to props and set-making - building up to a stunning end of week presentation!

Any super-eager dancers aged 8 or over can choose our Dance Intensive option swapping some of the singing and acting sessions for further dance training. They’ll develop advanced skills in acro, jazz and ballet with additional choreography for the end of week show.

A million dreams are ready to be made and we think this is going to be incredibly popular - places are limited so early booking is advise.

Email nicky@dndance.co.uk to secure your space.

dancE basE Dance Base is a brilliant resource for families in and around Edinburgh, looking to stay busy and keep healthy. Scotland’s National Centre for Dance has four studios like no other dance studios in Scotland – one even has a glass roof looking up to Edinburgh Castle.

Dance is fun and it’s incredibly good for you, and Dance Base is all about making it accessible for everyone.

This April, they’re running an Easter School; it’s a fabulous way to keep the kids (age groups 7 – 9 and 10 – 12) entertained over the Easter break. From Monday 8 April to Friday 12 April, Dance Base will provide a fun-filled week of energy, imagination and music-making, as they learn all about dance, puppetry, and percussion. Then they’ll end the week with a performance, showing off everything they’ve learned to family and friends.

It’s a brilliant way to ensure they have an exciting, energetic time over the holidays. dancebase.co.uk/classes/holiday-schools

BOOK NOW FOR EASTER SCHOOL HOLIDAYS MONDAY 8TH TO THURSDAY 18TH APRIL 2019 8.30AM TO 5.30PM - EXCLUDING FRIDAYS, SATURDAYS & SUNDAYS

Gate 55 SPACES ARE LIMITED!!

Quote FAM10 for discount

For all enquiries contact Gavin:

(t&c apply)

55 Sighthill Road, Edinburgh, EH11 4PB

10%

gamesatthegate@hotmail.com 07515 633 386 www.gamesatthegate.weebly.com / www.facebook.com/gamesatgate55

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Out&About While every care has been taken to compile the OUT AND ABOUT section please remember that this magazine is printed weeks ahead of some of the events. PLEASE call and check events with the venue to avoid any disappointment before setting out. If you have any events you would like listed free in this section please email them to editor@familiesedinburgh.co.uk

MARCH Until May 5th Robots National Museum of Scotland Exhibition Gallery 1, Level 3.

Admission charges apply Featuring more than 100 objects this is your chance to see the most significant collection of humanoid robots ever assembled.

Friday 1 March - 5 April Wee Creatives Festival Theatre.

11.30am. £5 for a joint ticket for 1 adult and 1 child (2 - 5yrs) Additional children £2.

Box office 0131 529 6000 Creative antics for 2-5 year olds and their adults! Join us to explore multiple art forms at weekly workshops this spring.

Book for one, several, or all ten sessions!

Wee Creatives gives you the chance to work alongside artists from a range of disciplines, exploring some of the children’s shows in the spring season. It’s all about first steps in the arts, plus ideas and inspiration for continuing creativity at home.

Saturday 2 March Wee treasures Scottish National Portrait Gallery 10.30am & 11.30am.

Multi-sensory storytelling in the gallery, inspired by a different painting each month.

Saturday 2 March tales from the Magic Drum Scottish Storytelling Centre, High Street. 11am & 2pm (45mins) £5 per child (ages 4+) Come on a global journey through the wonder tales of the world, dancing to a rhythm or two along the way! A riotous selection of stories and West African drumming from storyteller Dougie Mackay promises a fun, interactive storytelling session for ages 4+ but is likely to delight anyone with a sense of adventure and imagination.

Monday 4 March BYOB (Bring Your Own Baby/Bump) For ages 0 - 1 10.15am, 11am & 11:30am.

Venue changes, national galleries.org for more details. Monthly informal gallery chats for grown-ups with their wee-est ones.

Tuesday 5 March Open studio: Make an Impression Scottish National Portrait Gallery 10:30am-12:30pm. For ages 1 - 3.

Messy, open, art-making mornings in the Studio. Bring a change of clothes!

18 Families Edinburgh

Thursday 7 March storytime Central Children’s Library. Free drop-in (Ages 3-5). 10:30 - 11:00am.

Come to our friendly and fun Thursday mornings picture books storytime readings in the fantastic Children’s Library on George IV Bridge. Join the library for free with parental ID, and borrow up to 12 stories to read at home.

Friday 8 March Magic Carpet Minis 10:30 and 11:30. Free but booking required.

Meet at the Green Fountain in the Grand Gallery on Level 1. National Museum of Scotland. Explore the fantastic things in our collection in these fun pre-school sessions. Ages 0 to 2 years. Sessions are for individual families with a minimum of 1 adult to 2 children ratio.

Saturday 9 March superheroes show Conifox, Kirkliston, EH26 10.30am, 12.15pm and 2pm Bumblebee, Iron Man, Captain America, Spider-Man, Batman & The Hulk will be getting the kids involved in activities & games. The superhero show will be followed by a meet and greet with all the kids, to give great photo opportunities.

Ticket prices include Free Day entry into the Adventure Park Prices: £12.95 per child £7.50 per Adult.

Members: £10.95 per child £6.25 per Adult Get dressed up as your favourite Superhero to join in the fun, and there are prizes to be won for best dressed and best performance!

Sunday 10 March Postcard Portraits Scottish National Portrait Gallery 2-4pm. Free. Ages 6+ Pick up your postcard pack, find your portraits and create your own personal masterpieces! © Solen Collet

Tuesday 12 March tiny tales: spring Babies Scottish Storytelling Centre, High Street. 10am & 11.30am (40mins) £5 per child (ages 1-3yrs) Join Allison Galbraith for a fun morning of bouncy bunny rhymes and dancing duckling ditties to celebrate the coming of spring. A gentle introduction to stories for your wee ones.

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Wednesday 13 March Lego 18:00 - 19:30pm. Central Children’s Library. Free, drop-in. Ages 7 - 11 Come to our friendly and fun fortnightly Wednesday evening library Lego sessions. Build castles, create fantastic landscapes and creatures, and make Lego stories!

Join the library for free with parental ID, and borrow books to enjoy at home.

Thursday 14 March storytime Central Children’s Library. Free drop-in 10:30 - 11:00am.

For ages 3 - 5 Come to our friendly and fun Thursday mornings picture books storytime readings in the fantastic Children’s Library on George IV Bridge.

Friday 15 March Magic Carpet 10:30 and 11:30. Free but booking required. Meet at the Green Fountain in the Grand Gallery on Level 1.

National Museum of Scotland Take a trip on our Magic Carpet! Explore the fantastic things in our collection in these fun pre-school sessions. For ages 2 to 4 years Sessions are for individual families with a minimum of 1 adult to 2 children ratio.

Friday 15 March First steps: Beauty and the Beast Festival Theatre, Edinburgh This hour-long, interactive show, specially adapted for children aged 3+, features ballet excerpts from Beauty and the Beast, performed by Birmingham Royal Ballet's amazing dancers and orchestra, interspersed with scenes in which a storyteller introduces the children to the music and the leading characters, and shares some technical magic. A feast of dance, music, costumes and lots of fun, this is a perfect introduction to ballet.

See website for times and prices Saturday 16 March springtime sensory storytelling - Disabled Access Day 2019 Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art, Modern One 2 & 3pm. Free.

Fully inclusive multi-sensory storytelling with storyteller Maureen Phillip from PAMIS. For people of all ages with profound and multiple learning disabilities and their families, friends and supporters.

Booking essential: 0131 624 6428 or AMurray@nationalgalleries.org

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Out&About Saturday 16 March st George’s Junior school and Nursery Activity Open Morning 9.30 - 11.30am Visiting girls are invited to take part in some action-packed activities including hands-on science, outdoor learning in our Fantastical Forest, sport and art.

For parents, this is an informal opportunity to meet and talk to staff.

To find out more or book your place contact our Admissions Department T: 0131 311 8008, E: admissions@stge.org.uk

Saturday 16 March Walk, talk, Make 11am-12.30pm. Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art, Modern One Outdoor explorations in the grassy grounds of Modern One and Two. Dress for the weather!

Thursday 21 March storytime Central Children’s Library. Free drop-in 10:30 - 11:00am For ages 3 - 5 Come to our friendly and fun Thursday mornings picture books storytime readings in the fantastic Children’s Library on George IV Bridge.

Saturday 16 March Wild and Windy songs and stories Scottish Storytelling Centre High Street. 2pm – 3pm £6 (£4) (£3.50 SCS). All Ages Join us on Disabled Access Day for some blustery March multi-sensory adventures! Storytellers Ailie Finlay and Marie Louise Cochrane lead this lively session of tales with multisensory props and lots of joining-in.

All welcome, but particularly suitable for children and adults with additional needs and their families and friends.

Friday 22 March Magic Carpet Minis 10:30 and 11:30. Free but booking required. Meet at the Green Fountain in the Grand Gallery on Level 1.

National Museum of Scotland Take a trip on our Magic Carpet!

Explore the fantastic things in our collection in these fun pre-school sessions. Ages 0 to 2 years. Sessions are for individual families with a minimum of 1 adult to 2 children ratio.

Sunday 24 March Autism-Friendly early Openings Scottish National Portrait Gallery 9-10am. Free. All ages.

All families affected by Autism Spectrum Disorder are invited to explore the Portrait Gallery before the doors open to the public and take part in creative, sensory activities.

Booking essential: 0131 624 6428 or AMurray@nationalgalleries.org

Sunday 24 March Make a Medal for Mum Workshop Restoration Yard Dalkeith Country Park 10am-11.30am £15 Mums deserve a medal every day – make this one extra special by letting your little ones get crafty with clay! In this fun, hands-on workshop, kids of all ages can paint and glitter premade clay medals to create their very own Mother’s Day gift. Workshop located in The Loft, above Restoration Yard’s Store. Buy tickets online at restorationyard.com Wednesday 27 March Lego 18:00 - 19:30pm. Central Children’s Library. Free, drop-in.

Ages 7 - 11 Come to our friendly and fun fortnightly Wednesday evening library Lego sessions. Build castles, create fantastic landscapes and creatures, and make Lego stories!

Join the library for free with parental ID, and borrow books to enjoy at home.

Wednesday 27 - 30 March In the Willows Festival Theatre, Edinburgh. For ages 6+ The classic story leaps into the twenty first century with ballads, beats and backflips!

Mole’s first day in ‘The Willows’. Her classmates look a bit scary. Surely Mr Badger will look out for her, as streetwise Rattie, rich kid Toad and cheeky Otter teach her the ways of The Riverbank. But when Toad gets locked up for joyriding, the Weasel Clan break into his (lily)pad. It’s now only a matter of time before Chief Weasel reveals Mole’s dark secret… www.capitaltheatres.com

Thursday 28 March storytime Central Children’s Library. Free drop-in. (Ages 3-5). 10:30 11:00am. For ages 3 - 5 Come to our friendly and fun Thursday mornings picture books storytime readings in the fantastic Children’s Library on George IV Bridge.

Saturday 30 March Mother's Day Apron Making at Red thread 10am-1pm. Includes flowers and chocolates for mum!

Our special Red Thread Mother's day class is back! Bring your mum (or treat a mum you know!) to a few hours of peace, tea, cake, fun and creativity making vintage style aprons together, all in Red Thread's beautiful surroundings.

This class is suitable for complete beginners to intermediate sewers. info@redthreadstudio.co.uk Saturday 30 March Family Art tours Venue changes see nationalgalleries.org for details 11- 11:40am. Free Designed to boost confidence in looking and chatting about art; these short, interactive, creative tours are the perfect introduction to art for your whole family. This tour will also be BSL interpreted.

Sunday 30 March Jack & Jill edinburgh Kids Market Affordable Quality Baby and Kids Goods 0-9 years.

Join us for amazing offers at Edinburgh College West Granton Road, Edinburgh. 10:30am to 1pm.

To recycle and sell with us book at www.jackandjillmarket.co.uk

Saturday 30 March - 22 April easter eggcitement Almond Valley Heritage Centre Throughout the Easter school break, the farm is alive with the cheeps and bleats of baby animals, who will be introduced to you at handling and encounter sessions. Grab your clue sheet, sharpen your pencil, and tear around the farm collecting clues on the springtime trail. Keep a look out for hidden eggs that might win you a prize. In the craft area you can make bonnets, masks and other springtime decorations. There will be still further special attractions over the four days of Easter (19th to the 22nd April), including our famous plastic duck race along the mill lade.

Saturday 30 March - 20 April Puppet Animation Festival 2019 Puppet Animation Festival is the UK’s largest performing arts event for children, with a diverse programme of events for children between the ages of 0-12. This programme includes puppet-making and stopmotion animation workshops, puppet theatre and animated films.

For the full programme go to puppetanimationfestival.org Sunday 31 March Happy Mother’s Day

Skiingboarding Snowng Tubi

ard camps Easter ski and snowbo – 19th April

Running 8th – 12th

April and 15th

Call: 0131 445 4433 http://ski.midlothian.gov.uk • Email: ski@midlothian.gov.uk Midlothian Snowsports Centre, Hillend, Biggar Road, Edinburgh EH10 7DU

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Out&About Sunday 31 March Mother’s Day at Doodles Treat your mum this Mother’s day to a special personal gift handmade at Doodles or bring her to the shop on Mother’s Day for a glass of Fizz and a free mug! Booking essential, please call us on 0131 228 1399.

Easter at the Palace

Easter Bonnet Parade

Monday 8 – Sunday 21 April Visit over the Easter holidays and enjoy our new Easter trail, enter our competition and win an Easter Hamper.

Sunday 21 April 13:00 – 16:00 Visit on Easter Sunday to make an Easter Bonnet.

Explore the Palace, and join us for an Easter Bonnet Parade.

APRIL Monday 1 April BYOB (Bring Your Own Baby/Bump) For ages 0 - 1 10.15am 11am & 11:30am. Free.

Venue changes, nationalgalleries.org for more details. Monthly informal gallery chats for grown-ups with their wee-est ones.

Saturday 6 - Sunday 21 April edinburgh science Festival at Dynamic earth Join us for a packed programme for the Edinburgh International Science Festival.

• Go on Atlantic Adventures with oceanthemed family activities (April 11th, 14th, 15th, 20th & 21st).

• Discover Aliens of the Deep with the Marine Conservation Society (20th & 21st).

• Join artist Julia Barton to create #LitterCUBES using ocean plastics (6th – 10th).

• Investigate litter on our coastline with the SCRAPbook project (9th & 10th).

• Find out about Scotland’s Marine Protected Areas with Shore’s media project How We See the Sea (12th - 13th).

• Discover the Volcanoes that Rocked Edinburgh on guided walks with geologist Angus Miller (12th, 14th).

• Join the British Geological Survey to discover secrets of the underground world (16th).

• Meet scientists who are Revealing Scotland’s Cold Water Coral Reefs, create your own reef to take home (17th, 19th).

• Explore the importance of farmland for biodiversity with the guests from RSPB and Hutton Institute (18th).

James Admission charges apply.

Saturday 6 - 21 April edinburgh science Festival at National Museum of scotland The National Museum of Scotland will be packed to the rafters with science of all shapes and sizes as part of the 2019 Edinburgh Science Festival. 10am - 5pm

Tuesday 2 April Open studio: Make an Impression Scottish National Portrait Gallery 10:30am-12:30pm.

For ages 1 - 3. Free Messy, open, art-making mornings in the Studio. Bring a change of clothes!

Thursday 4 April storytime Central Children’s Library. Free, drop-in (Ages 35). 10:30 - 11:00am. For ages 3 - 5 Come to our friendly and fun Thursday mornings picture books storytime readings in the fantastic Children’s Library on George IV Bridge.

Friday 5 - 22 April easter Bunny Hunt National Mining Museum of Scotland, Newtongrange If you’re taking a Pithead Tour during the Easter holidays remember to pick up your FREE Easter Bunny Hunt sheet! Find all the bunnies and collect your prize at reception!

Saturday 6 April Wee treasures Scottish National Portrait Gallery 10.30am & 11.30am. Free.

Multi-sensory storytelling in the gallery, inspired by a different painting each month.

Saturday 6 - 21 April edinburgh science Festival Inspired by the 50th anniversary of the Moon landings, the 2019 Festival theme is Frontiers, exploring the boundaries of knowledge and the spirit of adventure and enquiry that drives science, technology, engineering and maths.

For full programme go to www.sciencefestival.co.uk

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© Helen Pugh Photography

Saturday 6 - 22 April Fort Douglas easter Holiday Activities 11am-3pm Free with admission Play, build, create, learn! Get the kids outdoors and away from the screens this Easter with a visit to Fort Douglas. If you’re looking for things to do with the kids during the Easter holidays you’ll find lots of extra activities in this magical adventure playpark, included in your entry fee.

The sessions are designed for kids with some parental/guardian help, so be prepared to get (a little) messy. The sessions will differ every day with something for all ages. Some of the sessions on offer include spaghetti architecture, balloon twisting, clay creatures, Easter forest faces, paper boat making, pebble painting and mini bug hotels. Different sessions on each day – sign up on arrival to get your activity wristband.

More details at dalkeithcountrypark.co.uk/easter

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Saturday 6 - Monday 22 April the Botanics Bunny easter trail Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh, Entrances on Inverleith Row and Arboretum Place, Edinburgh. 10am – 6pm daily. For ages 3+ Join the Botanics Bunny on a quest to explore new frontiers in our family Easter Trail!

Complete the trail and receive your yummy Easter treat. Supported by Mackies of Scotland. £2 per trail map.

Tuesday 9 April tiny tales: Mrs Mash the storytelling Cook Scottish Storytelling Centre High Street, 10am & 11.30am (40mins). £5 per child. For ages 1-3yrs Tiny Tales is the perfect introduction to storytelling and the Scottish Storytelling Centre for your wee ones. A different storyteller each month will share stories, songs and rhymes, with plenty of space for buggies and roaming around! April’s fun is with Mrs Mash the Storytelling Cook!

Wednesday 10 April Lego 18:00 - 19:30pm. Central Children’s Library. Free, drop-in. Ages 7 - 11 Come to our friendly and fun fortnightly Wednesday evening library Lego sessions.

Build castles, create fantastic landscapes and creatures, and make Lego stories! Ages 7 - 11 Join the library for free with parental ID, and borrow books to enjoy at home.

Monday 8 - Sunday 21 April easter at the Palace Palace of Holyroodhouse, Edinburgh Visit over the Easter holidays and try out our new Easter trail - search the Palace to spot the weird and wonderful hats, wigs and crowns worn throughout the ages. Visit our Family Room to enter our competition to design an Easter bonnet for The Queen and win an Easter Hamper. This event is free with a Palace ticket or a 1 – Year Pass.

Thursday 11 April storytime Central Children’s Library. Free, drop-in 10:30 - 11:00am. For ages 3 - 5 Come to our friendly and fun Thursday mornings picture books storytime readings in the fantastic Children’s Library on George IV Bridge.

Monday 8 - Friday 19 April Poster Club: Paolozzi & Warhol 2-4pm (not weekends). Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art, Modern One Create your own pop-art poster, inspired by Eduardo Paolozzi and Andy Warhol every weekday during the Easter holidays.

Tuesday 9 April River Dipping Water of Leith Visitor Centre 24 Lanark Road, Edinburgh 2 - 4pm £5 per child. For ages 4 - 12.

Put on your wellies and join us IN the river for this fun event BOOKING ESSENTIAL 0131 455 7367 admin@waterofleith.org.uk

Thursday 11 April HuNt!! Water of Leith Visitor Centre, 24 Lanark Road, Edinburgh 2 - 4pm £5 per child. For ages 4 - 12.

Seek out animal tracks and trails along the river and in the woods!

BOOKING ESSENTIAL 0131 455 7367 admin@waterofleith.org.uk Friday 12 April Call of Nature Royal Botanic Garden, Edinburgh 12:30pm to 2.30pm. Age 5 to 8 years, £6.

Meet at the John Hope Gateway, Arboretum Place The institute of Eggsperts needs you and it might get muddy! Join our playful field trip and expert fools to explore the local landscape in search of a rare egg., finding laughter and wonder in the most unexpected places.

A playful performance that puts young explorers in the driving seat using character clowning, improfisation, puppetry and adventure.

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Out&About

Friday 12 - Sunday 14 April Aliens Love underpants Kings Theatre, Edinburgh Aliens love underpants Of every shape and size But there are no underpants in space So here's a big surprise!

This zany and hilarious tale based on the bestselling children’s book is delightfully brought to life on stage for the very first time. With stunning effects, madcap action, original music (and lots of aliens of course!) this fantastically fresh and funny production will delight the whole family. You'll laugh your PANTS off! See website for times and prices Friday 12 - 22 April - easter fun at the scottish seabird Centre Join the fun at the Scottish Seabird Centre this Easter.

We have lots to keep your little ones entertained, from our daily science shows, 3D films and boat trips to our ever-popular Seabird Holiday Club.

Escape! is our new puppet show, for kids age 2+. Percy the Puffin is trying to leave his burrow to escape to the sea, but his route is a dangerous one, will he make it? Older kids (5+) can help Professor Egghead use robots in his fantastic new science show Ro-bish Removals. Kids will learn how robots can be used to remove plastics from the ocean. www.seabird.org Friday 12, Saturday 13 and Sunday 14 April RsPB at the Castle Lauriston Castle 10am - 4pm. Free. Drop in We love nature — we're passionate about wildlife and wild places. We believe the environment should be at the top of the agenda whether the subject is building houses, setting up wind farms, fishing our seas, transporting goods or educating our children. We never give up, we get things done; making changes for the better, for wildlife and for people. Come along to Lauriston Castle to take part in some wildlife themed activities and see how you can be part of saving nature!

Friday 12 April Oscar and the Highland Castle (part of Puppet Animation Festival) National Mining Museum Scotland, Newtongrange. 1pm It’s 1307. Scotland lies defeated and Robert the Bruce is hiding from the English.....

Answering a call for help, Oscar the mouse leaves his attic home and heads for Loch Ness where he finds Incy Wincy Spider among the ruins of an old castle. Mysteriously swept back in time, Oscar joins Incy’s campaign to free the castle from English rule and restore Scotland’s independence! Here, one of Scotland's most evocative folk tales is imaginatively re-told with wit and charm, using a combination of ultraviolet effects, shadow puppetry and upbeat music. Adults £6, Children £4.50, Family £20 (2 adults & 2 children) nationalminingmuseum.cloudvenue.co.uk/ oscarandthehighlandcastlepuppetanimati onfestival

Thursday 18 April River Dipping Water of Leith Visitor Centre, 24 Lanark Road, Edinburgh 2 - 4pm £5 per child. For ages 4 - 12 Put on your wellies and join us IN the river for this fun event. BOOKING ESSENTIAL 0131 455 7367 admin@waterofleith.org.uk Thursday 18 April storytime Central Children’s Library. Free, drop-in.

10:30 - 11:00am. For ages 3 - 5 Come to our friendly and fun Thursday mornings picture books storytime readings in the fantastic Children’s Library on George IV Bridge.

Saturday 13 - 22 April Gandeys Circus Sighthill Park, Broomhoouse Road The UK’s biggest and most spectacular Big Top show, GANDEYS returns with an all new action-packed star-studded production for all the family! Over 30 international circus artistes – from Cuba, Kenya, Colombia, Mexico, Ghana and the UK – will have you Come Alive, as they assemble in a spectacular production proudly presented by HAYLEY and MARISKA, the fourth generation of the famous GANDEY family’s circus dynasty. See websites for times and prices gandeyscircus.com Sunday 14 April Postcard Portraits Scottish National Portrait Gallery 2-4pm. Free. Ages 6+ Pick up your postcard pack, find your portraits and create your own personal masterpieces!

Saturday 13 April Wild Day Out Holyrood Park, Edinburgh 10am – 4pm. Free There’s a wild adventure waiting for you at Holyrood Park!

Join Historic Scotland and RSPB Scotland for a day of discovery as you learn more about the rugged landscape and the amazing wildlife living in the heart of the city.

With face painting, worm charming, minibeast hunts, a nature science lab and lots of other hands-on activities, don’t miss the opportunity to discover your wild side at this drop-in family event taking place at the Holyrood Park Education Centre in Edinburgh.

Run as part of the Edinburgh Science Festival, experts will be on hand to help you get up close with nature and to show you how every member of the family can help the natural world in your own back garden.

Free to attend, we can’t wait to see you and your family!

Monday 15 - 21st April easter scavenger Hunt at Conifox Find the clues hidden around the park by the Easter bunny and hop along to the next one.

Once you have found all the clues you will receive a goody bag of sweeties from the cabin. Find the magical golden egg and get a special prize. Head along to the marquee where we will be doing an Easter craft event for all you crafftys. Whilst in the park come play on our new berg race karts and our new choppers.

Tuesday 16 April suRVIVe!!

Water of Leith Visitor Centre, 24 Lanark Road, Edinburgh. 2 - 4pm £5 per child.

For ages 4 - 12.

Build a shelter, forage for food and learn to create fire BOOKING ESSENTIAL 0131 455 7367 admin@waterofleith.org.uk

Friday 19th, 20th, 21st & 22nd April easter egg specials Bo’ness & Kinneil Railway A free tasty Easter treat for every child. Wear your traditional Easter Bonnet for the chance to win a prize and have fun in the Museum hunting the Easter Eggs! See website for times and prices www.srps.org.uk Friday 19 April the Incredibles – Film screening (part of Puppet Animation Festival) National Mining Museum Scotland, Newtongrange, 11am A family of undercover superheroes, while trying to live the quiet suburban life, are forced into action to save the world. Adults £3, Children £2 nationalminingmuseum.cloudvenue.co.uk/ theincrediblescinemascreening Saturday 20 April Fort Douglas Open Air Cinema The Greatest Showman – 6.30pm NEW for 2019 are our open-air cinema screenings in Fort Douglas. Watch firm family favourites in the magical setting of this wondrous woodland adventure playpark.

Snacks are a must for watching any film and will be on sale from the food and drink cabin in Fort Douglas. More details at dalkeithcountrypark.co.uk/easter Saturday 20 & Sunday 21 April Fort Douglas easter egg Hunt & Craft Activities 11am-3pm. Free with admission In addition to our daily Easter Holiday activities, over Easter Weekend you’ll find a giant Easter Bunny and Easter egg hunt! Yippee! Meet the Fort Douglas Easter Bunny, find those rubber eggs to get a treat and make your very own Easter bonnet or crown to feel like you’re king or queen of the Fort. We’ll provide a range of natural and creative materials so you can help your little one design their own headpiece to wear proudly – the more glitter the better!

More details at dalkeithcountrypark.co.uk/easter

Calling all mums thinking about returning to work!

The PCT Partnership specialises in helping women return to work after a break.

Our 1-day Masterclass will help you: • understand recruitment and selection • identify your skills • prepare your CV • help you to match to jobs and write successful applications • prepare for the interview process.

Contact us at training@thepctpartnership.co.uk.

Feel free to ask for a short free consultation to discuss your needs.

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Out&About Saturday 20 April Walk, talk, Make Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art, Modern One 11am-12.30pm. Free Outdoor explorations in the grassy grounds of Modern One and Two. Dress for the weather!

Sunday 21 April easter Puppet Making Workshop Make your own puppet in our Easter workshop. £2.50 per child nationalminingmuseum.cloudvenue.co.uk

Sunday 21 April easter Lunch at Conifox Stables Bistro will have a lamb roast available on Easter Sunday between 12pm and 4pm.

Call 0131 333 1444 to book your table to avoid disappointment. Our famous BBQ will also be fired up on Easter weekend (weather dependent).

Monday 22 April earth Day Come and celebrate Earth Day at Dynamic Earth Become a trainee environmental scientist, explore the microscopic world and help Earthy to solve some of the problems facing our planet. Drop-in activities suitable for all the family.

Sunday 21 April easter Bonnet Parade Palace of Holyroodhouse, Edinburgh 13:00 – 16:00 Celebrate Easter at the Palace of Holyroodhouse. Visit our Family Room to make and decorate your very own Easter Bonnet.

Wear your bonnet to explore the Palace using our new Easter trail, then join us in the Great Gallery for a fabulous Easter Bonnet Parade at 15:30. Admission charges apply.

Sunday 21 easter easter eggstavaganza Traquair House, Innerleithen. 11am - 5pm The Biggest Egg Hunt in the Borders in the Biggest Maze in Scotland. A fabulous day of egg hunting, egg painting and lots of other activities! With the largest hedged maze in Scotland, there could be no better place for an Easter Egg Hunt. Now in its 19th year, there will be 6,000 mini eggs to be found during a series of egg hunts throughout the day and we guarantee no child will leave empty handed.

The Easter egg hunts are confined to the Under 10’s with an easter egg scramble for under 5’s in the Walled Garden.

In addition, delicious home cooked lunches and teas in our Garden Café with some home brewed Traquair Ales for the grown ups.

Wednesday 24 April Lego 18:00 - 19:30pm. Central Children’s Library. Free, drop-in. Ages 7 - 11 Come to our friendly and fun fortnightly Wednesday evening library Lego sessions.

Build castles, create fantastic landscapes and creatures, and make Lego stories!

Join the library for free with parental ID, and borrow books to enjoy at home.

Thursday 25 April storytime Central Children’s Library. Free, drop-in 10:30 - 11:00am. For ages 3 - 5 Come to our friendly and fun Thursday mornings picture books storytime readings in the fantastic Children’s Library on George IV Bridge.

Friday 26 & Saturday 27 April In the Night Garden Live Kings Theatre, Edinburgh Join Igglepiggle, Upsy Daisy, Makka Pakka and friends at In the Night Garden Live for a brand new show on their first ever UK theatre tour in 2019!

Saturday 27 April Family Art tours Venue changes, see national galleries.org for details 11- 11:40am. Free Designed to boost confidence in looking and chatting about art; these short, interactive, creative tours are the perfect introduction to art for your whole family. This tour will also be BSL interpreted.

Sunday 21 April easter at the Castle Lauriston Castle. 10 am - 1pm Join us for our annual family Easter event at Lauriston Castle which kicks off our 2019 events programme. There will be trails, games, crafts as well as lots of chocolate treats! Of course, there will be our annual egg and spoon race. £7 per person. Please ring Lauriston Castle on 0131 336 2060 to book or click the book now button to book online.

Sunday 27 April Jack & Jill edinburgh Kids Market 10:30am to 1pm Affordable Quality Baby and Kids Goods 0-9 years.

Join us for amazing offers at Edinburgh College West Granton Road, Edinburgh.

To recycle and Sell with us book at www.jackandjillmarket.co.uk

Sunday 21 April easter Lunch National Mining Museum Scotland, Newtongrange Come along and enjoy a 3 course Easter lunch with the family in our beautiful Power House.

Every child under 16 will receive a FREE Easter egg! To book contact Opulent Catering on 0131 654 6474. See website for menu.

Adults (13+) £25 per head, Children (0-12) £12 per head.

Sunday 28 April Autism-Friendly early Openings Scottish National Portrait Gallery 9-10am. Free. All ages.

All families affected by Autism Spectrum Disorder are invited to explore the Portrait Gallery before the doors open to the public and take part in creative, sensory activities.

Booking essential: 0131 624 6428 or AMurray@nationalgalleries.org

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Families Edinburgh is part of Families Print Ltd, a franchise company. All franchised magazines in the group are independently owned and operated under licence. Families is a registered trademark of LCMB Ltd, Remenham House, Regatta Place, Marlow Road, Bourne End, Bucks SL8 5TD. The contents of Families Edinburgh are fully protected by copyright and none of the editorial or photographic matter may be reproduced in any form without prior consent of Families Edinburgh. Every care is taken in the preparation of this magazine, but the franchise company, Families Print Ltd and LCMB Ltd cannot be held responsible for the claims of advertisers nor for the accuracy of the contents, or any consequence thereof.