Families Edinburgh January/February 2020

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IN THIS ISSUE Great Big Birthday Party Guide What's On Around Edinburgh Clubs & Classes

Issue 118 January / February 2020

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Happy New Year! Welcome to the January/February issue of Families Edinburgh.

Do you need help with your child's sleep? Won't stay in bed? Can't sleep? Waking in the night? Michael can help you uncover causes and introduce practical solutions. Experienced sleep councellor and CBT Therapist 20 + years working with children and teenage sleep difficulties.

Call 07555 089385 michael.adair@hotmail.co.uk

I hope you all had a lovely festive period and some well earned time hanging out in your jim jams! The party season is never really over when you have a child - so if you’ve got a special day looming and need some help deciding how to celebrate head to page 6 for this year’s updated Great Big Birthday Party Guide. If you’re itching to shake off the Christmas cabin fever turn to page 12 to find out what’s on around Edinburgh in January and February. We’re already hard at work finding out what you can look forward to in March and April. We love hearing from you so if you need to get in touch there are plenty of ways:

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Call us on 0131 622 0405

E Email us: editor@familiesedinburgh.co.uk

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

Nestled in the heart of the stunning Dordogne, Le Chevrefeuille B&B and self-catering 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

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Join the biggest sports club in town!

Edinburgh Leisure is the biggest provider of sports coaching services in the city! We’ve 14 sports programmes taking place every week at our venues and pride ourselves on welcoming everyone, regardless of age or stage to join us. So, whether you’re interested in learning to swim, climbing, or something in between, we think we’ve got it covered. Our quality sports programmes are led by dedicated sports coaches and teachers, where we pride ourselves on delivering an excellent progressive learning experience in a fun environment. We look forward to welcoming you to the biggest coaching club in town.

Play but not as you know it!

Scotland’s Premier Pregnancy & Family Fair returns to Edinburgh this Spring!

Nurture the Play is officially open with a focus on unlocking your child's curiosity and natural desire to explore. With a selection of natural and real life objects you will be hard pushed to find a conventional toy there, the aim is to bring current early year focuses to the mainstream and support parents and carers to participate through free play sessions and groups whilst providing coaching and consultancy for the early years sector. Nurture the Play is a social enterprise with 10% of profits donated to Juno Perinatal Mental Health Support with the remaining being used to fund further projects. 5a Portland Gardens, Edinburgh, EH6 6NY. Opening Times: 10am to 3pm Monday - Thursday. (Check Facebook to keep up to date) www.nurturetheplay.co.uk

Bonnie Bairn returns to Edinburgh Corn Exchange on Sunday 1st March. Bringing together the best local experts, service providers and independent retailers who can support you from pregnancy, to birth and through parenthood; ensuring you and your baby get off to the best possible start. A day packed with informative talks and workshops for the grown-ups, as well as taster sessions and entertainment for your babies and young children. There is something for the whole family to enjoy, plus premium goody bags for the first 250 families and a free Epic Prize Draw. A local fair, for local families, sharing everything that is wonderful about raising a family in Scotland. Get your tickets in advance & save! Visit www.bonnie-bairn.co.uk Use code FAM25 for 25% discount

Call us on 0131 622 0405

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Studio48 - learning art through fun.

Hanah Mack Music Tuition

Drawing and Painting. This art course will focus on learning art in a fun way. It will help to develop art skills as we examine line & shading, perspective, composition, and figurative drawing. We will also look at different materials, various craft techniques are explored. This course will boost confidence and foster creativity. Being in a real artist’s working studio environment is fun for the children, as they learn what it means to be an artist. With a limit of 9 children, it is a supportive and relaxed creative environment where they can let their imagination and creativity blossom. For ages 6 - 14. To book email sally@sallyannjohns.com. For info visit www.sallyannjohns.com Follow @studio48art on Instagram and Facebook

More music classes added for 2020! All teachers at HMMT are passionate about delivering fun, focused and flexible lessons for all ages and abilities. Due to popular demand, we have increased our after-school availability for individual piano lessons for children aged 5+, and singing lessons for children aged 6+. We also offer flute and music theory lessons for children in Primary 6 and above. Preschool music classes and nursery workshops have recently been added for the first time and spaces are filling up quickly! All lessons at HMMT are tailored to the needs of each individual child and build confidence, musical knowledge, and skill, through the use of a wide range of games, activities, worksheets and resources. Check out our website for more information and to book your free taster lesson. www.hanahmackmusictuition.co.uk hanahmackmusic@gmail.com

Jupiter Artland

Development Through Drama!

Looking for a new activity for boys and girls aged 4 - 16 years?

Based in the Forest School teaching ethos, Jupiter Artland’s ground - breaking learning programme focuses on developing confidence, curiosity and creativity by engaging with and responding to both the unique outdoor setting and the worldclass sculpture collection. From our weekly Littlesparks classes, our woodland birthday parties to our seasonal holiday courses, there is something to spark the interest of all young people. Our experienced teaching professionals will guide, support and encourage your child on their personal journey of discovery. For more information, please visit our website or email learning@jupiterartland.org

With our unique curriculum, the Helen O’Grady Drama Academy aims to develop confidence, self-esteem and communication skills. Our well thought out, structured drama programme allows each student to be involved in something positive and successful. The varied curriculum, which includes speech, movement, script work, improvisations and theatre productions, is constantly revised and updated. Classes are great fun and non-competitive. Please do get in touch for further information or to book a FREE TASTER SESSION. Weekly classes in Linlithgow, Corstorphine, Edinburgh South, Edinburgh City, Broxburn, Livingston, Musselburgh, Bonnyrigg, Hawick and Galashiels. 0131 667 0939 or 07701 33347 midscot@helenogrady.co.uk www.helenogrady.co.uk www.facebook.com/HelenOGradyMidScotland

DN Academies offers fresh, fun and engaging performing arts classes and workshops in central Edinburgh and Musselburgh. Run by the team behind the well-known DN Dance school, the classes are professional, safe and specifically-designed for kids aged of 4-16 years. The Mini Theatre Academy is the perfect first step on stage to help develop little personalities and creative team work (suitable for ages 4 - 7 years). The Theatre Academy offers more in-depth coaching and workshops (ages 7-16 years) with time split between singing, acting and script work, plus dance and movement. If you’d love to step up on stage and sing, dance or act your heart out, DN Academies are for you! dnacademies.co.uk

Kidscene After School and Holiday Club Kidscene provides after school and holiday care to children aged 4-16, 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. Facilities are furnished to a high standard and include a messy room, a playroom and a kitchen, all with full disabled access. 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. Visit royalblind.org/child-care for fees and more information.

Edinburgh Young Musicians (EYM) currently finds itself in the unusual position of having all its Saturday morning Musical Play classes taken by a mother & daughter team. Laura Cross, who spends most of the rest of the week as a P2 class teacher at Buckstone Primary School, first discovered EYM when she brought her daughter Mairi to its pre-school Musical Play classes back in 1998. Fast-forward 22 years and Mairi herself is now teaching those very same pre-school Musical Play classes. EYM caters for youngsters from their final pre-school year up to 18-year-olds and currently has 3 places available for P1 children & 7 for pre-school children to join classes in January or February 2020. All enquiries to Jean Murray, admin@e-y-m.org.uk. 0131-226-3392. www.e-y-m.org.uk.

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HEALTH AND HOME TOP TIPS to help you save money on your energy bill this winter! Managing your gas and electricity bill can be a struggle, especially over the winter months. We’ve put together some handy top tips for saving money this winter. 1 Switch and save! Switching your energy supplier can help you save hundreds on your bills, especially if you’ve never switched before. Use the Citizens Advice Energy Compare site to find the best deal for you- www.energycompare.citizensadvice.org.uk 2 Turn it down! Turning your heating down by 1 degree could save you £85 per person per year. Keeping it between 18-21 degrees will save you money while keeping your home cosy. 3 Turn them off! Turning appliances off standby could save you £30 per person per year. 4 Claim it! If you’re on benefits or have a low income, you might be able to claim a discount of £140 on your electricity bill through the Warm Home Discount scheme. Check with your supplier or visit your local CAB to see if you’re eligible. 5 Improve your home! You may be able to claim free home energy efficiency improvements through the Scottish Government Warmer Homes scheme. Get free support and advice on any of your energy issues from your local Citizens Advice Bureau. Our trained Energy Best Deal advisers can help you in lots of ways – like dealing with outstanding debts, saving money by reducing your energy use, switching supplier, complaints, accessing financial help and more. Find your local Citizens Advice Bureau and book an appointment today www.cas.org.uk/bureaux

Coughs • Colds Asthma • Eczema?

Salt Therapy can help!

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

Do you need help with your child's sleep?

Won't stay in bed? Can't sleep? Waking in the night? In an initial 2 hour session Michael can help you uncover causes and introduce practical solutions aimed at improving the sleep of all concerned. Experienced Sleep Councellor and CBT Therapist 20 + years working with children and teenage sleep difficulties. Call 07555 089385 michael.adair@hotmail.co.uk

33-35 Marionville Road, Edinburgh, EH7 5UD

www.edinburghsaltrooms.co.uk

Beat the Winter bugs! Does your child have a constant cough/cold/earache or suffer from asthma, eczema or allergies? The cold weather can often make all of these conditions worse so why not give Edinburgh’s only Salt Room a try this year. It’s simple, effective and best of all drug free! Salt kills bacteria, it’s anti-inflammatory and helps break up mucus. It also removes airborne particles and toxins to improve the ability to cope with allergic reactions. Kids can have fun without even realising they are having any treatment! Whilst playing, they inhale dry, saltenriched air deep into their lungs, clearing the airways and making breathing easier after just a few sessions. It can have a lasting effect on their health, boosting their immune system to prevent the frequent recurrence of their symptoms. Salt Therapy is definitely becoming a preferred method to treat many conditions so come along and take advantage of our Salt Therapy packages. Edinburgh Salt Rooms, Meadowbank, is open Tuesday-Saturday. Please call 0131 297 5555 for any enquiries or bookings (Previously The Salt Cave)

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Planning your fresh start. 5 tips to make separation easier for children. If you and your partner decide to separate, your main concern will always be the effect it will have on your children. The fact is, it doesn’t have to be negative. If handled correctly, children can still feel as though they are in a supportive and loving family, even if your future looks a little different. Here are a few tips to bear in mind.

Honesty is key There is no point in lying to kids about what’s happening, even with the best of intentions. You owe it to your children to be honest about why you are separating and what the future holds. Keep it simple and positive and reinforce that their parents love them and will be there for them. Keep the conversations going and encourage their questions.

Address their feelings Whether it’s sadness, anger or anxiety, children in separating families will experience a lot of different feelings. It’s important that you recognise these and address them. Let your children know it’s okay to feel what they are feeling and it’s important to talk about it with you.

Agree on structure Most kids function best when they follow a routine. With so much changing in their lives when their parents separate it’s more important than ever to give their days some structure. Mealtimes, bedtimes and visitation rights should be planned and discussed with them, so they feel secure in what they’re doing day-to-day.

Give them some control While routine is important, it’s also good to let children make some of the decisions, so they know their feelings are being considered. Whether it’s what’s for dinner or weekend activities, giving children a say in decisions that affect the whole family lets them know they are valued and that not everything is beyond their control.

At Gibson Kerr, our family law solicitors have been helping and advising families for over 100 years. If you have any questions about divorce or separation please get in touch and we’ll be happy to talk to you.

Fiona.rasmusen@gibsonkerr.co.uk 0131 226 9161

Have a plan It’s likely that your separation has left you confused and worried, and your children will need you to have answers to their questions about what happens next. Speak to an expert and get all the advice and answers you need. As hard as it is, life will seem easier when you know your options.

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www.gibsonkerr.co.uk

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Creating memories to last a lifetime ♡ info@heyjevents.co.uk Facebook - Hey J Events Instagram - hey_j_events 07977 509786

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

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Great Big Birthday Party Guide 2020

There are plenty of things I know I could do myself if I had to. I could paint the walls of my home or I could cut my own hair - but I would MUCH rather those tasks went to a decorator or a hairdresser (in exactly that order!) And to save myself from whatever the wonky, self inflicted haircut equivalent of a kid’s party is I would rather rely on the services of a professional for help with that too! We’ve done the leg work for you so if you want help giving your child an AMAZING birthday party read on. Remember that if you get in touch with anyone on these pages to tell them you found them in Families Edinburgh.

GET THE PARTY TO COME TO YOU! Digital Ninjas – Creative Parties for Kids Unique Tailor Made Children’s Parties with a Tech Twist! Digital Ninjas Children’s birthday parties are a perfect combination of fun and learning that will ensure a birthday party experience like no other! Digital Ninjas offer a fantastic range of children’s birthday party packages from Crime Scene Investigation for budding detectives to Minecraft Quests, Tipi Sleepovers, Lego® Robotics and Wacky Rockets. Our prices include specially themed party bags and birthday party invites. Consistent five star ratings on our Facebook page @DigitalNinjasSco “Just wanted to say thank you for an amazing birthday party – all the kids had a great time! I will certainly be recommending your parties to all parents” For further information call: 0131285 6443 or email: info@digitalninjasscotland.co.uk www.digitalninjasscotland.co.uk ★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★

Pure Brilliant Events Pure Brilliant Events is a specialist face painting and balloon modelling company who also offer bouncy castles, glitter tattoos, popcorn and candy floss machines, mascots and balloon décor! We are also home to Edinburgh's Batman and the Batmobile! Covering all of Edinburgh and the Lothians we are happy to come to your local community centre, leisure centre or even your home. You will be in safe hands with our highly trained team who are also Disclosure Scotland checked and fully insured. Amazing rates, starting from just £35 per hour and there are fantastic savings to be had with our Party Package deals which are available to view on our website – www.purebrilliantevents.co.uk Book before the end of January to benefit from 2019 prices!Contact Bex on 07593 332744 or info@purebrilliantevents.co.uk

Call us on 0131 622 0405

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Let Hey J Events provide everything your children would need for the perfect sleepover or picnic party in the comfort of your own home, with our range of beautifully themed teepees & luxe picnic set ups.

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UNFORGETTABLE SLEEPOVERS & PICNIC PARTIES

CeilidhKids A ceilidh is a great way to celebrate – if all the guests like to dance! CeilidhKids ceilidhs are especially suited to whole family parties with a mix of generations – under 5s need an adult or older child to partner them; older children and adults can dance together. We will come and lead an hour’s family ceilidh dancing, and then leave the rest of the party to you to eat, drink and be merry. You choose the venue and bring the cake – we bring the music and ideas and help the guests have fun! www.ceilidhkids.com For 5 years we have been delivering amazing birthday parties across Scotland. With 11 incredible activities to choose from, our full time office team can not wait to organise your next celebration. Last year, we delivered over 800 parties (thats more than 15 a weekend) from Nerf Wars, Hot Tubs, Tipi Cinemas and loads more. We love creating the newest, coolest, never seen before parties. Thanks to those who have been on this journey with us too! We love birthday parties and we love getting to play a part in your child's special day! www.ActivityDelivered.com

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Foam Dart Thunder: The Ultimate Party Idea! Having hosted 100’s of parties and huge events, we are proud to be the UK’s Award Winning Premier Nerf Party and Event Provider. We provide organised, safe, foam dart games, tournaments, events and Nerf parties for kids (ages 6 and over) and adults of all ages – yes the adults get to join in too! “My son absolutely loved his Nerf party with the guys at Foam Dart Thunder – David was great with the kids!” Shauna – East Lothian Fully insured and have PVG/Disclosure Scotland. Get in touch to find out more and book your party! www.foamdartthunder.com We also run the award winning “Terminal Infection” events which take place in a multi level shopping mall with zombie actors!

Celebrate in creative style with a crafty party brought to you by Kiss the Fish – Edinburgh’s mobile arts & crafts studio. Choose from a selection of fun party activities – try your hand at making a mosaic mirror, decopatch a funky animal, felt a picture or bag or even learn to sew. We’ll supply all the materials and tuition – and ensure that everybody leaves with a masterpiece! Suitable for ages 5 – 105, our prices start from just £10 per guest and we’re able to attend any venue within the Edinburgh area. Call us on 0771 826 7728 or www.kissthefishstudios.com for details.

Rugby Tots Our parties are excellent value and led by energetic, fun and passionate coaches. Games and activities are designed to be suitable for all children, not just children who attend our classes. For further details, please contact Sandra at sandra@rugbytots.co.uk or call 0345 313 3252 “Rugbytots was the best party we’ve had. The kids had an absolute ball and were captivated by the goodhumoured coach who had them using their imaginations, taking part in really fun games and activities. All the parents commented on how well run the activities were and how much fun it looked”. Scott Christie, Edinburgh.

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Monkey Music Monkey Music love doing parties and every event is tailored to suit each occasion. The parties last for up to an hour and include the same award winning ingredient as to the regular classes. You can expect instrument playing, musical games, singing, dancing and much more all delivered to original songs sung live by the party host. Optional craft activity is available for ages 2+. Invitations and a gift for your child to help remember their special day with Monkey provided. Parties can be held in your own home or at an external venue. Please contact Abbey Smith, morningside.pentland@monkeymusic.co.uk or visit www.monkeymusic.co.uk

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Great Big Birthday Party Guide

Hey J Events Hey J Events can create the perfect bespoke party for an upcoming birthday or any other event, with our range of options! Choose from themed teepee sleepovers in the comfort of your own home, luxe picnic parties which can be held inside or out (weather dependant), or even have a mixture of both. We can also create stunning Children's Corners for weddings or any event where the kids can enjoy their very own special area and can even have a little nap when it gets late, leaving the adults to dance the night away. The fun is not just for kids, we can also create beautiful adult friendly parties perfect for hen dos, baby showers or even just a girls night in. Info@heyjevents.co.uk Facebook - Hey J Events Instagram - hey_j_events 07977 509786

See also

Monkey Drama (page 10)

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Great Big Birthday Party Guide Cramond Kirk Hall Cramond Kirk Hall is an excellent venue for all sorts of functions - especially children’s parties. There is loads of space to burn off energy or to erect a bouncy castle in the Main Hall. Rooms are available for quiet receptions or wild ceilidhs! For larger functions there is a commercial kitchen, crockery, cutlery and loads of tables and chairs. The Halls are in open parkland with plenty of free parking. Remember, you don't have to arrange it all yourself, let us help you with catering, entertainment and decorations if you choose. Please contact David Haggarty on 0131 312 6911 or hallenquiries@cramondkirk.org.uk to discuss your requirements. Check out our website at www.cramondkirk.org.uk/aboutus/cramond-kirk-hall

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VENUES WITH SPACE FOR A PARTY A Unique Venue Experience in Edinburgh Want an experience to remember? Looking for a fantastic and unique venue for your children's party? At Re-Union Canal Boats you can cruise along the Union Canal from the centre of Edinburgh aboard our fabulous, fully accessible, wide-beam barge. The Lochrin Belle can hold 35 passengers and our experienced skipper and crew will do everything they can to ensure you have a safe and enjoyable experience. Let your imagination run wild and host a pirate, Luau or mermaid party! www.re-union.org.uk info@re-union.org.uk 0131 261 8529 Facebook: reunion.boats Twitter: @ReUnion_Ltd

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LifeCare

Nurture the Play

Nurture the Play can help you celebrate Planning a birthday celebration? your little ones special occasion. We can At the LifeCare centre we love a party! offer venue hire or set up themed parties Situated in the heart of Stockbridge, we such as messy play, crafts, tinkering or offer great facilities for the perfect birthday something of your choice. party. Depending on your child’s age and Prices start from just £75 for 1.5 hours hire. number of guests, there are many options www.nurturetheplay.co.uk of room sizes available. 5a Portland Gardens T: 0131 343 0940 or Edinburgh, EH6 6NY. E: lets@lifecare-edinburgh.org.uk Opening Times: 10am to 3pm Mon- Thurs. LifeCare, 2 Cheyne Street (Check Facebook to keep up to date) Edinburgh EH4 1JB ★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★

VENUES WITH THE PARTY READY TO GO! Tubing Parties at Midlothian Snowsports Centre, Hillend. Join us for an exhilarating and unforgettable kid’s party. Ride up the travelator and slide down our purpose built tubing runs on round inflatable doughnuts. It’s fast, fun and exciting! We also offer junior tubing parties on the nursery slope. They are great fun! You can sit, spin, and go backwards, hold on to the person next to you. After an hour of tubing, whatever your style of party, food and drinks are provided in our cafe. We even provide free party bags! You can also pre book teas and coffees with biscuits or scones for the adults to enjoy! Please phone us to check availability. Early booking is essential to avoid disappointment. Call 0131 445 4433 for more information or to book your party All tubers must be at least 4 years old and more than 1m in height. ★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★

Ever wondered what it’s like to be a pop star? Wonder no more! Come to Yoo-Star and we guarantee to give you all the thrills you could hope for. Dress up in our glamorous dressing room for your photo-shoot, experience the thrill of being on stage in our funky stage area and enjoy a backstage rider. Then record in our professionally designed studio with a great pedigree, see yourself live on TV, sit in with the engineer as they mix your songs or enjoy the comfort of our VIP lounge and have a professionally designed cover featuring you. Record whatever you like in our professional studio as used by a number of chart topping Scottish acts. We cater for everyone from friends having fun, stag and hen parties to demos for record companies and tracks for worldwide release. Will you get your photo up in our hall of fame? Yoo-Star @ Groove Tunnel 0131 448 2170 www.yoo-star.co.uk

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Great Big Birthday Party Guide Using your chosen music tracks we plan a mash-up dance routine to present at the end in a mini show. Love Little Mix? A superfan of The Greatest Showman? Into pirates, disco, football or cheerleaders? Whatever your favourite tunes or theme, we've got it covered - we guarantee a party full of smiles! Take advantage of our full party package and use our dance studio - the ideal venue. It’s a ready-made studio that's perfect for dancing plus there’s a separate room to set up the party food. We’ll even provide party invitations and directions to the studio. Prices from £145. Min 10, max 28 children aged 5+ NEW for 2020: DN Dance Babies parties for tiny dancers aged 1 - 4 years DNStudios, The Basement, 4 Hutchison Terrace, Edinburgh, EH14 1QB 07545 551271 / 0131 443 0753 nicky@dndance.co.uk www.dndance.co.uk

Edinburgh Leisure Birthdays are special – why not celebrate the day doing something a little different with Edinburgh Leisure? As well as being the home of Aquadash and Clip n Climb, we offer a great range of activities across the city suitable for boys and girls of all ages. Younger children will squeal with delight on the bouncy castle or soft play, while older children can choose from climbing, swimming, football or multi-activities. What’s more, most parties can now be booked online – check out edinburghleisure.co.uk for more information and to book your special day!

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Dynamic Earth How about traveling back in time 13.7 billion years to the beginning of our universe and taking an action packed adventure through the life of our planet Earth. Dynamic Earth birthday party packages contain something for kids of all ages. For younger children we have a Storytelling Birthday Party, and for older children we have a fantastic Craft Activity Birthday Party. For children of all ages we offer our ever popular Adventurer Party. Parties are suitable for a minimum of 8 children and a maximum of 20 children. Birthday parties are available every Saturday and Sunday that the attraction is open. 0131 5231273 e - enquiries@dynamicearth.co.uk w - www.dynamicearth.co.uk

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Chocolate Making Birthday Parties Our chocolate-making and tasting parties are fun-filled, hands on, interactive experiences based at The Chocolatarium just off the Royal Mile. Create your very own chocolate bar, chocolate pizza or chocolate lollipops to take home and enjoy! Use the finest Belgian Chocolate and a huge range of the highest quality toppings to make the bar you’ve always wanted. While everyone's chocolates are setting you can choose from the following: • Learn all about where chocolate comes from and how it is made with the original Tour of the Chocolate, with chocolate tasters along the way! • Taste your way through the history of chocolate from the Aztecs to the latest inventions with the Taste of Chocolate History Experience. • Make your own wrapper with the bar wrapper design workshop. Then take home your chocolate, along with some great memories! info@chocolatarium.co.uk www.chocolatarium.co.uk Minimum age 7. Duration 1 hour 30 minutes. ★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★

Birthday parties at Almond Valley are special occasions. As well as all the normal attractions of Almond Valley your special party will enjoy the use of a brightly decorated room that serves as your base for the two hour duration of the party, a choice of delicious party food, party badges and tooters, your own exclusive tractor and trailer ride and a play session in the Morag’s Meadow soft play. The Simple Spread is included in all party packages, containing a variety of simple, uncomplicated food ideally suited for young taste buds. Additional catering options available for adult helpers and Goody Bags for the children. Standard birthday party package costs £10.50 per child, for a minimum of ten children. Almond Valley Heritage Trust, Millfield, Livingston, West Lothian EH54 7AR 01506 414957 www.almondvalley.co.uk

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Let DN Dance create a bespoke dance party for your budding star!

Cramond Kirk Hall

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Rooms All Sizes for Parties & Events

Call 0131 312 6911 or 07979 795331 hallenquiries@cramondkirk.org.uk

Families Edinburgh 9


Great Big Birthday Party Guide

www.nurturetheplay.co.uk Nurturetheplay@outlook.com.

10 Families Edinburgh

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A place to spark your child's imagination and boost their curiosity. Drop in, classes and venue hire.

Party planning made easy at Jump In Edinburgh Jump In Edinburgh’s awardwinning children’s birthday parties offer a two-hour package of fun for up to 10 children and come complete with: • Check in and safety briefing • Jump In socks for all guests • One hour to enjoy all the Jump In facilities • Dedicated party host • Water whilst jumping • Pizza (choice of pepperoni or Margherita) or hot dogs • Plates, cups, plasticware and napkins A range of optional birthday party extras can also be purchased. But essentially, all you need to bring is your guests and the cake! And what better than being able to leave all the clearing up to someone else at the end of all the fun? Time to head home and open those birthday presents instead! Further details on the party packages are available at www.gojumpin.com or email: hello@jumpin.com or call 01926 356290 to discuss your party needs. ★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★

Drama Parties – An adventure of the imagination! Monkey Drama will take the children on an hour-long themed drama session at The Monkey Hoose, which will be filled with drama, imagination, energy and fun from beginning to end; including lots of props, music and role play! This is followed by food and cake in the party room. Includes: • Invites • theme related party games and prizes • certificate & stickers for all children • Special Monkey Drama gift bag filled with goodies for the birthday child. We can also come to a venue of your choice and provide you with an hour long adventure. Packages for up to 20 or 25 kids. Prices from £150. Party themes include A Day at the Zoo, Superhero’s, Pirates, Builder Adventure and The Hidden Rainbow. Packages from £160 for 15 children.Bespoke themes can be arranged at an extra cost. Contact Alana, 07736298013 alana@monkeydrama.co.uk www.monkeydrama.co.uk, The Monkey Hoose, 3 Kinsgknowe Park, EH14 2JQ

For a birthday party that’s packed full of active fun, it has to enjoyleisure! Across East Lothian, there’s so much to choose from. Create a splash at a pool party! Slide down the flume at Dunbar Leisure Pool! Take on the Aqua-Run! Jump to your heart’s delight on a bouncy castle (or the trampolines at North Berwick Sports Centre). Scale the walls at the Climbing Wall in Tranent. Hire a hall for a sporting activity of your choice. Or exclusively hire Jamboree or Wiggles soft play areas for you and your friends! Wow! Just thinking about it is exhilarating. Better yet, enjoyleisure can do all the catering for you too. So all you need to do is send out the invites and bring the cake! For further information visit www.enjoyleisure.com or contact your local East Lothian Sports Centre. We look forward to welcoming you soon.

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Jupiter Artland Parties run from May to September (open season weekends only) Jupiter Artland's parties are 2 hours 15 minutes full of exploring, creating and having fun, all set within a magical landscape of beautiful woodlands. All parties are based in our classroom and in the outdoors. Themes include Build a Bothy, Outdoor Adventure and Fairy Kingdom, all of which can be tailored to the group’s specific ages and requirements. Parents can select additional extras, including marshmallow toasting, birthday cakes and party bags. Parties are led by Jupiter Artland’s learning team, who specialise in outdoor, creative learning.

Call us on 0131 622 0405

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Great Big Birthday Party Guide

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The Birthday Party Directory We are excited to share with you the UK's first accreditation service for children's birthday parties. In recent years, the birthday party market has exploded with loads of incredible birthday party ideas. We check that each of our members have the legal processes and safeguards in place to deliver a safe, incredible party. Our 8-point accreditation check can give you peace of mind that steps have been taken to ensure that your party is safe, legal and the very best it can be. Visit our website for more info! www.TheBirthdayPartyDirectory.com

adults too). They cost £14 a head. This means the children can choose one item each form a selection of wee ornamental figures or a mug /bowl/plate . We allow up to 2 hours for older children’s and for young children we would recommend a shorter time of 1.5 hours. Usually we divide the time between painting first (around 45mins-1.5 hours depending on the group) followed by a birthday tea. We don't supply food but we have (complimentary) teas or coffees and juice or water for children. Most people bring along a selection of finger foods, treats and a cake. We also have plenty of plates/platters/bowls for nibbles, a knife to cut cake, matches etc. If you would like to go ahead with the booking then please call us on 0131 229 1399 to discuss your plans. ★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★

TimeTwisters Play & Party Centre Your child’s Birthday party is one of the most important days of their year. We specialise in making sure it is an exciting, fun and memorable experience. As Edinburgh’s award winning kids birthday party specialist, we offer the widest choice of parties and options to ensure all guests have “The Greatest Fun in History”. From Soft-Play Parties to Make-A-Bear and Laser-Tag Parties, our party team know what it takes to make your child’s special day extra special. So make 2020 a year to remember - With a TimeTwisters Birthday Party, you know you’re in safe hands and can relax and enjoy the day as much as the children. Full details of all party options, availability and online party booking can be found at www.timetwisters.co.uk/parties or call 0131 639 0180

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• Adventure Park Only Party Come along for the day and enjoy full use of our fantastic adventure park facilities You are more than welcome to bring along your own picnic and make use of our picnic benches throughout the grounds. Prices on this package vary, depending on numbers. • Adventure Park & Bistro Party Come along for the day and enjoy full use of our fantastic adventure park facilities. Then come over and join us in our Bistro, where our chef will prepare lunch for you and your friends in your own private birthday room to celebrate. Choose from Freshly baked Margherita Pizza, Grilled Angus Beef Burger or a Conifox Hot Dog all served with fries, fruit cordial and something nice and sweet. Our Birthday Party time is 1.30pm - 3.30pm in the Adventure Park and 3.30pm - 4.30pm in the Bistro £14.95 per child www.conifox.co.uk

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Spend your Special day with us at Conifox

Doodles children’s pottery painting parties suit all ages from little ones to teenagers (and even

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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 18 January Walk, Talk, Make: Winter Ages 2-5 11am-12noon. National Gallery of Modern Art (One). Booking essential, via nationalgalleries.org Indoor sculpture-hunting, story-sharing, art and musicmaking for under 5s.

JANUARY 1 - 31 January Half Price Entry at Conifox www.conifox.co.uk Visit Conifox during January for HALF PRICE ENTRY to their adventure park where you can zoom around the track on pedal go karts or see how high you can reach on the giant jump pillow.

12 January Sunday Funday Please book online or call 0131 476 4506 from 9am to 5pm, Monday to Friday. Bookings for six children or more must be made by phone. Everyone is welcome to play at The Yard Edinburgh every Sunday Funday. You can drop in any time from 10am to 4pm. We suggest arriving before 2pm so you can play for two hours. Because we don't know how busy it will be, it is a good idea to book, especially if you are bringing a larger group. If there is a queue, you will be able to go straight in.

13 January - 1 March Almond Valley Heritage Centre Afternoon Tea Every day until the 1st March, (except between 8th to 18th February) we're serving very special high teas, ideal for mums, dads, and younger children. There's a tasty, tempting, tiered array of sandwiches, savouries and cakes for the grown-ups, and a perfect miniature version especially for the under eights. What's even better is that when you book a high tea, you are admitted to Almond Valley absolutely FREE, and can take time to explore the site and meet the animals. What's better still is that fives and unders can enjoy a camping adventure deep in the teddy bear woods; a warm, bear-infested corner the tearoom. Afternoon tea costs £9.95 per adult and £4.95 for each child, for a minimum of two people. Teas must be booked and paid for in advance by telephoning us on 01506 414957 during office hours and giving at least 24 hours notice. Places are limited, especially at weekends, so book early. Those booked for tea are admitted to Almond Valley free of charge.

20 - 26 January Red Red Rose Street Rabbie Ramble returns – where families can once again collect a Rabbie Ramble Map from the Information Centre at the Assembly Rooms, George Street, and set off to discover hidden clues and puzzles throughout the area. Once complete, claim your prize and earn a well-deserved rest in one of the many cafes or restaurants where you may find special Burns&Beyond offers.

©Derek Prescott

12 January www.filmhousecinema.com Films for a younger audience, weekly on Sundays at 11am. Tickets cost £5.00 (£5.50 for 3D screenings) per person, big or small! For these shows we choose to screen dubbed versions where these are available, but some films will be in their original language with subtitles – these are marked on individual film descriptions. Please note: although we normally don't approve of people talking during screenings, these shows are primarily for kids, so grown-ups should expect some noise! 12 January Postcard Portraits Ages 6+. 2-4pm. Scottish National Portrait Gallery Explore the gallery together and create your own portraits with different materials and techniques to play with each month.

12 Families Edinburgh

14 January Tiny Tales 10am & 11.30am (40mins) | £5 per child | 1-3yrs Scottish Storytelling Centre Tiny Tales is the perfect introduction to storytelling and the 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! With Claire Hewitt (Jan) and Fergus McNicol (Feb).

22 January - 1 February Chinese Lanterns at St Giles’ Cathedral Daytime Entry- Monday – Saturday 9.00am to 5.00pm, Sunday 1.00pm – 5.00pm FREE and Unticketed. Prices apply for evening entry. In celebration of Burns Night and Chinese New Year falling on 25 January, a stunning Chinese Lantern installation has been created to transform Edinburgh’s famous St Giles’ Cathedral with a canopy of over 400 lanterns. An evening illumination and soundtrack will create a spectacular sensory experience along with a programme of daytime and evening performances and events.

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Out&About ©James Hoban

23 January - 4 May Tyrannosaurs Exhibition Gallery 1, Level 3 National Museum of Scotland. Admissions charges apply. Visit nms.ac.uk/tyrannosaurs Meet the most feared and revered of all dinosaurs in this cutting-edge exhibition, bringing the latest palaeontological discoveries to life. Explore the tyrannosaur family tree with life-size cast skeletons, rare fossils and incredible models. Through an augmented reality experience and large-scale projections, interact with dinosaurs in real time inside the gallery, and even walk alongside them as they explore Edinburgh. 25 January Family Ceilidh 1.30pm – 3pm | £5 (£4.50 SCS) | All Ages Scottish Storytelling Centre Come with family and friends to dance and sing well-known Scottish dances and songs. All the dances will be called and there will be easier circles for littler ones. A fun introduction to sociable dancing with live music and some stories too. Part of Scotland’s Winter Festivals. 25 January Royal Rhyme Time: Puppets at the Palace 11:00 – 11:40 Please call 0303 123 7306 for booking and more information. Join us on a storytelling adventure with It’s in the bag! Hear tales from Holyroodhouse with Holly and Rudy as you enjoy rhymes, songs and drama as their friendly puppets bring the story to life. Suitable for children aged four and under. £10 for one adult and up to two children.

25 January World Beats: Spotlight on China 2pm to 3.30pm, St Cecilia’s Hall 50 Niddry Street, FREE Sign up at www.stcecilias.ed.ac.uk In honour of Chinese New Year, learn about some of the fascinating Chinese instruments we have in our collection and make your own Chinese Drum to take home with you. We’ll also learn about the signs of the zodiac so you can decorate your drum with your Zodiac sign.

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25 January Chinese New Year 11:00–16:00. Free, drop in. National Museum of Scotland Celebrate Chinese New Year at the museum with family friendly activities and performances to celebrate the Year of the Rat. Enjoy a spectacular Lion Dance, try your hand at calligraphy, make a lucky red envelope, dress up in traditional costume and discover more about the Chinese zodiac animals.

25 January Bairns’ Burns Supper 12noon – 1.30pm (doors open 11.45am) Freemason’s Hall, 96 George Street FREE New for 2020, the Bairns’ Burns Supper will have you and your little ones birlin’ for Burns with traditional ceilidh dancing for the whole family. Suitable for all ages, join the incredible Kilter Ceilidh Band and some superb ceilidh callers for an entertaining, relaxed, child-friendly event. Kids can also get a taste of their first Burns Supper with a bit of haggis and some surprise guests who will no doubt help supply plenty of laughs and amusement. No need to book a ticket, it’s FREE – just turn up with your dancin’ shoes at the ready! 25 - 27 January The Big Garden Birdwatch www.rspb.org.uk To take part, you need to watch the birds in your garden or local park for just one hour at some point over the three days and report your results to the RSPB. To make it fun, challenge your children to see who can spot the most birds. Take a bike ride to a local park to look for birds, or make a day trip out of it and spot birds in a new place. 25 January Family Art Tours 11am. Scottish National Portrait Gallery 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. 26 January Autism-Friendly Early Openings 9-10am. All Ages. Scottish National Portrait Gallery Booking essential. All families affected by Autism are invited to explore the gallery before the doors open to the public and take part in creative, sensory activities.

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Out&About FEBRUARY 1 February Wee Treasures Scottish National Portrait Gallery Ages 2-5 10.30am & 11.30am. Multisensory storytelling in the gallery, inspired by a different painting each month.

10 - 15 February Picture This! 2-4pm. Scottish National Portrait Gallery Photography-inspired art-making and live music for ages 4-12 during the February half-term holidays.

3 February BYOB (Bring Your Own Baby/Bump) Scottish National Portrait Gallery Ages up to 1 10.15am, 11am & 11.30am. Monthly informal gallery chats for grown-ups with their wee-est ones. 4 February Open Studio: Make an Impression Scottish National Portrait Gallery Ages 1 - 3 10.30-11.15am & 11.30am-12.15pm. Booking essential, via nationalgalleries.org Messy, open, art-making mornings in the Studio. 8 February Mary, Queen of Scots and the Missing Shortbread 11am – 11.50am | £5 per child | 4+ Scottish Storytelling Centre Queen Elizabeth’s delicious shortbread has mysteriously gone missing and, oh crumbs, she has accused her cousin, Mary, Queen of Scots of gobbling it all up! Join action Adventuretellers Brooke Conway and Hannah Mathieson as they venture across Scotland on a brave quest to get to the bottom of this mystery! 8 February Early Doors for Autism 09:00–10:00. Free, booking essential Visit nms.ac.uk/earlydoors Join us at pre-public opening sessions for autistic children and their families. Enjoy Tyrannosaurs - themed activities in February’s early-doors event. 8 February Stan and Mabel and the Race for Space Assembly Rooms www.sco.org.uk Join the Scottish Chamber Orchestra and the music-loving cat and dog duo Stan and Mabel for a fun-packed session of music and storytelling for the whole family. But watch out for a carnival of animals as they escape from the School for Wild and Dangerous Animals in search of a safe place to call their home! The concert is based on a brandnew illustrated story by Jason Chapman and original music by composer Paul Rissmann. Narrated by children’s TV presenter Chris Jarvis.

NEXT ISSUE March/April 2020 Book now - 0131 622 0405 editor@familiesedinburgh.co.uk

14 Families Edinburgh

8 – 16 February February Half Term at Dynamic Earth All activities are drop-in from 10am-4pm and free with admission to Dynamic Earth Blast off into space with an event that is truly out of this world! Explore the universe through explosive demos, fun interactive activities and hands-on crafts. Discover how satellites can be used for everything from weather predictions, to GPS to tracking pirates! Explore the surface of Mars using Lego rovers and VR and even learn how space telescopes can see back in time using amazing infrared technology. Guaranteed to leave you feeling inspired by our incredible universe and the scientists who help uncover its secrets! 9 February Postcard Portraits 2-4pm. Scottish National Portrait Gallery Explore the gallery together and create your own portraits with different materials and techniques to play with each month for ages 6+

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10 - 16 February Leonardo da Vinci: a life in drawing. The secret sketchbook The Queen’s Gallery 11:00 – 15:00 Collect your mirror, magnifying glass and secret sketchbook as you uncover mysterious messages from Leonardo da Vinci. It’s up to you to decode the messages and sketch your way to success. Children can also get hands on with a variety of handling objects as they discover Leonardo da Vinci’s extraordinary life and find out how he created his amazing drawings. COME BACK FOR FREE! Get your ticket stamped on your first visit and come back as many times as you like in a year at no extra cost. A great way to fill the school holidays! 11 February Tiny Tales 10am & 11.30am (40mins) | £5 per child | 1-3yrs Scottish Storytelling Centre Tiny Tales is the perfect introduction to storytelling and the 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! With Claire Hewitt (Jan) and Fergus McNicol (Feb).

12 February Peppa Pig: My First Concert 12pm, 2pm & 4pm Usher Hall Peppa Pig, along with Mummy Pig, Daddy Pig and George, are coming to you in Peppa Pig: My First Concert, a fun, interactive introduction to a live orchestra. Peppa and George learn all about the different sounds that instruments make together, and enjoy some of their favourite music from the show played by an orchestra as well as discovering some other exciting orchestral pieces. www.usherhall.co.uk

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Out&About Linlithgow Corstorphine Edinburgh South Musselburgh Bonnyrigg Livingston Broxburn Leith City Centre

12 -15 February Zog King’s Theatre Edinburgh. Zog is eager to win a golden star at Madam Dragon’s school. He tries so very hard, perhaps too hard, and he bumps, burns and roars his way through years one, two and three. Luckily, the plucky Princess Pearl patches him up ready to face his biggest challenge yet…a duel with knight, Sir Gadabout the Great! 14 February Crafty Burdies (10.30am – 3.30pm) £5 per person Ages 5-105 Scottish Storytelling Centre Join artists and storytellers Jan Bee Brown and Anne Hunter for a family friendly playday, with an informal performance at 12pm the following day. Following the story of the midwinter ‘burdies’, participants will enjoy stories, songs and crafting with a traditional seasonal swing.

15 February The Strange Visitor: Book Launch 2.30pm – 3.30pm Free (ticketed) 7+ Scottish Storytelling Centre Knock your knobbly knees and join us for the twitchy tale of a wily old woman, a wide-eyed cat, wild weather and the weird appearance of a very strange visitor… We dare you to discover this trad Scots tale re-imagined in English and in Scots by Renita Boyle, with graphic novel illustrations by Mike Abel, published by Curly Tale Books. Games and crafts included for some monstrous fun!

Tel: 0131 667 0939 web www.helenogrady.co.uk email midscot@helenogrady.co.uk Facebook https://www.facebook.com/HelenOGradyMidScotland

FREE TRIAL LESSON

15 February Walk, Talk, Make: Winter 11am-12noon. Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art (One) Booking essential, via nationalgalleries.org Indoor sculpture-hunting, story-sharing, art and music-making for under 5s. 22 February Winter Sensory Storytelling 2pm & 3pm. Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art (One) Booking essential. Fully inclusive multisensory storytelling to celebrate winter with storyteller Maureen Phillip from PAMIS. This event is for people of all ages with profound and multiple learning disabilities and their families, friends and supporters. 23 February Autism-Friendly Early Openings 9-10am. All Ages. Scottish National Portrait Gallery Booking essential. All families affected by Autism are invited to explore the gallery before the doors open to the public and take part in creative, sensory activities. 15 February Frozen Party Book early to avoid disappointment via Facebook: @conifoxadventurepark or to find out more call 07968 746355 or visit: www.conifox.co.uk. “Let it Go” as Elsa and Anna come to Conifox for their Frozen Party. Listen to story time and join in with singalongs then decorate your own biscuits and cupcakes. There will also be games and a meet and greet with the famous sisters so dress up and enjoy in the fun. 15 February Make a Masterpiece: Hidden pictures The Queen’s Gallery 13:30 – 15:30 In this fun family session, explore Leonardo’s masterpieces – then make your own! Use florescent paint to discover how light works and watch your work come to life under ultraviolet light. The event will be led by award- winning artist Gemma Coyle and includes an introductory talk in the Queen’s Gallery. Booking is required. Please call 0303 123 7306 for booking and more information. COME BACK FOR FREE! Get your ticket stamped on your first visit and come back as many times as you like in a year at no extra cost. A great way to fill the school holidays!

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23 February Royal Rhyme Time: Nature’s Wonders 11:00 – 11:40 Please call 0303 123 7306 for booking and more information Explore the Palace gardens and enjoy a nature walk with a local storyteller. Hear stories of the wild creatures who once lived in the Royal Menagerie and take part in a make and take activity. Suitable for children aged four and under, accompanied by parents or carers. £10 for one adult and up to two children. 29 February Wonderful Woodwind Instruments 2pm to 3.30pm, St Cecilia’s Hall, 50 Niddry Street, FREE Sign up at www.stcecilias.ed.ac.uk We have one of the largest collection of clarinets in the world, as well as several different types of flutes from across the globe. Learn about some of these instruments and make your own pan flute to take home with you. 29 February Family Art Tours 11am. Scottish National Portrait Gallery 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.

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Families Edinburgh 15


The Secret Sketchbook Monday 10 – Sunday 16 February 11:00 – 16:00 Collect your mirror, magnifying glass and secret sketchbook as you uncover mysterious messages from Leonardo da Vinci. Decode the messages and sketch your way to success. Children can also get hands on with a variety of handling objects as they discover Leonardo da Vinci’s extraordinary life.

Leonardo da Vinci: a life in drawing COME BACK FOR FREE! Don’t forget to ask a Warden to stamp your ticket to convert it into a 1-Year Pass.You can enjoy free re-admission for a year. A great way to fill the school holidays at no extra cost!

Make a Masterpiece: Hidden pictures Saturday 15 February 13:30 – 15:30 In this fun family session, explore Leonardo’s masterpieces – then make your own! Use florescent paint to discover how light works and watch your work come to life under ultraviolet light. Booking is required.

www.rct.uk/whatson

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.


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