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• Acting • Singing • Dancing • Drama Classes for Children (from 4), Teens and Adults
www.actingoutuk.com 07704 714 607
hello@actingoutuk.com
Individual coaching, Workshop & Party Hire
www.welovefrugi.com
Age specific football training for children at walking age - 7 years. For more info contact: 07923 005534 Email: j.smith@soccerstarts.co.uk www.soccerstarts.co.uk
www.familiesedinburgh.co.uk
Email - editor@familiesedinburgh.co.uk
Tel. 0131 622 0405
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What’s inside...
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3–5 6–7 8 9
News and Views Clubs and Classes News Parent to Parent Does your child have ADHD?
The Power of Salt
10 – 11 12 – 21
Holidays Great Big Birthday Party Guide 2015
22 – 23 24 – 25 26– 31
Fashion for Eyes New year New job Out and About
Get in Touch Editor: Sarah Adair editor@familiesedinburgh.co.uk 0131 622 0405 Keep up to date online at www.familiesedinburgh.co.uk Follow us on Twitter @familiesedinbur Find us on Facebook Designer: kennydickson7@gmail.com
“The Salt Cave has given us better breathing, energy and immunity. And we’re loving it!” Gabriel’s mum Coughs are incredibly common. It is one of the main reasons for parents to visit their GP with their children. A cough is a reflex action to clear the airways of mucus and irritants, foreign particles and microbes. Coughs may be dry or chesty. Generally, children with a cough have an upper respiratory tract infection caused by a virus or in more severe cases, when their immune system is rundown, a chest infection or pneumonia. Most coughs clear up within two weeks, but if it continues for a long time, especially if it’s worse at night or is brought on by your child running about, it could be a sign of asthma. Some children with asthma also have a wheeze or breathlessness. • Salt is a natural antihistamine, anti-viral and anti-bacterial • Builds up the immune system to attack the invading microbes • Salt therapy helps by clearing up the mucus • 100% natural and safe for any age Inhaling fine particles of salt into the entire respiratory system helps relieve inflammation, breaks up mucus and relieves congestion. As a result of the therapy breathing becomes easier and the immune system grows stronger making you more resistant to everyday infections, such as colds, flu and coughs. Children can play here and they will not even realise they are under treatment! The Salt Cave, Meadowbank, Edinburgh, is open Tuesday to Saturday, and your first session is free! 0131 510 1091 www.saltcave.co.uk
Bright Horizons Nurseries Bright Horizons Nurseries and Preschool are holding an Open Week 26th – 30th January 2015. They understand that selecting a nursery for your child is one of the most important decisions you will ever make. To help you in the process they would like to give you the opportunity to view their facilities and meet the team during the Open Week. Register on the day and you will be entered into a draw for the chance to win up to £250 in vouchers towards your shopping (Terms & Conditions apply). For more information about your local nursery or to book a visit please: click: http://www.brighthorizons.co.uk/ call: 0800 0085 4074 email: parentenquiry@brighthorizons.com
Holy Corner Community Playgroup
Lily wears: Milly hat £16 one size, Little Maisie Cardigan £37 0 – 3 years, Little Hannah Reversible Dress £28 0-3 years, Little Twinkle Toe tights £12 all from www.welovefrugi.com
Holy Corner Community Playgroup provides a fun, safe stimulating environment which is caring and responsive to children and their guardians. Founded over twenty five years ago, the playgroup is run by a dedicated staff and parent committee. The playgroup offers full and part time places for children from 2.5 - 5 years with daily morning sessions from 9:05 - 12:30, and grant funding available. Holy Corner was awarded a Big Lottery grant to develop its outdoor play area so there are exciting times ahead! 6A Christ Church, Morningside Road, EH10 4DD 0131 228 2768
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N O W O N SALE ONLINE & INSTORE From ages 0-8 years & shoe sizes infant 3 to adult 4 10-12 Hamilton Place Stockbridge, Edinburgh, EH3 5AU Tel: 0131 225 1242 www.treehousechildrenswear.co.uk
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Edinburgh Body Tonic
If you’re looking to unravel your body after the Christmas break why not give Gyrotonic exercise sessions a try. A combination of yoga, tai chi and dance- the sessions are taught one-to-one on a machine that has been developed to help lengthen, strengthen and mobilize the entire body. The cleverly created movement sequences comprise circular, fluid motions with corresponding breathing that’s not only relaxing but also fun and feels great! Sessions can be adapted to suit all ages and ability levels and for more information you can visit www.edinburghbodytonic.co.uk or call Rhona on 07810234618.
Nature’s journey is an informal, inspiring and empowering approach that enables pregnant women and their birth partners to feel excited about the birth of their baby. Through the Relax and Breathe Birthing course, you are guided through a combination of gentle breathing, guided relaxation and visualisations (hypnobirthing), movement, massage and comprehensive birth preparation helping you to achieve a fear-free, calm and positive birth experience. Hi my name is Anne Young and I am one of the first trained Relax & Breathe Birthing Instructors in the UK. My 4 week Relax and Breathe Birthing courses will be starting on Saturday 7th February 2015 from 9.30am to 12.30pm at the lovely and tranquil Breath-Works, 7a Alva Street, Edinburgh, EH2 4PH. A very relaxed, informal and friendly course which is limited to four pregnant women and their birth partners. The best time to come to this course is between 24 and 35 weeks into your pregnancy. If this course isn’t the right time for you then get in touch to find out when the following courses will be running. *Special introductory offer £100 for the February 4 week course (usually £160)* To book your place, please contact Anne on 07811 073 202 or email: anne@scents-of-wellbeing.co.uk www.scents-of-wellbeing.co.uk
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The UKs largest inter-school cycling and scooting competition, The Big Pedal, returns for 2015. The Big Pedal (March 2nd – 20th) is open to nurseries, primary and secondary schools and challenges them to compete against one another to make the most journeys to school by bike and scooter over 15 days. Last year over 1,500 schools signed up to take part and pupils, teachers, parents, and siblings made over a million journeys (1,142,374) to school on their bikes and scooters in just 10 days. By signing up to The Big Pedal schools will receive a wall-chart to record their progress, whilst a range of resources designed to support schools are available in the teachers section of the Sustrans website. Winning schools will receive prizes including bike and scooter stunt shows and equipment. Registration for The Big Pedal 2015 is now open. To register your school or nursery go to: www.bigpedal.org.uk
KidsNLPScotland - Nurturing Well Being Children are generally very resilient. What can appear as a problem one minute is often forgotten about later in the day. They can squabble with their best friend and then quickly make up and be all smiles. However, there are times when children struggle to cope with external factors that may be affecting them. Even with the most nurturing of home environments, children can find it difficult to make sense of, or talk about what they are feeling. In younger children emotional problems may manifest in a change in their behaviour. They may display more anger and be more reactive than usual, or become withdrawn, weepy, be disinterested in playing or have sleeping or toileting issues. Up until the age of approximately 6 years old, children are in a slow brain wave rate called the 'theta' brain wave. This is akin to a hypnotic state. Effectively they are downloading all the sensory information from around them. Parents may go to great lengths to hide that they are going through difficult time in their relationship, or not tell the child they are worried about their health or that of a loved one, yet the child will still pick up on it, sense it. They too will be just as affected emotionally and physically. Older children may still display similar symptoms to that of a younger child. The change in behaviour is the first things parents notice. Fiction then kicks in the mind of parents. Are they being bullied, are they struggling at school? The child cannot explain how they feel or why because they may not have the cognitive skills to express their emotions. Families struggle to know how to support their child. Individual sessions involve the use of story, metaphor and other methods as ways to indirectly talk about how they are feeling and help connect with their unconscious mind to resolve the problem. Kidsnlp@gmail.com 07837930714 www.kidsnlpscotland.co.uk
January Sale Now On at Treehouse Online and In-store! Greycoat Lumleys, based in the centre of Edinburgh, offers a local, professional, friendly recruitment service for parents looking for childcare solutions, including Nannies, Nanny/Housekeepers and Mother’s Helps. Childcare Consultant, Toria Maclellan, interviews and reference checks every candidate and carefully matches them to the needs of individual families. If you are a parent or family looking for help, or a Nanny looking for a job, then give her a call today on 0131 556 5139 or email toria@greycoatlumleys.co.uk
You won’t want to miss out on Mayoral dresses & t-shirts, Kite Joggers, babywear and more within the clothing department. Shoes are also included in this fabulous sale, with customer favourites on Ricosta Winter boots, Joules wellies and StartRite canvas shoes plus a host of beautiful toys and accessories. Up to 70% off on selected items, from ages 0-8 years & shoe sizes infant 3 to adult 4! Shop online & receive FREE delivery on purchases worth £40 or more. www.treehousechildrenswear.co.uk, 10-12 Hamilton Place, Stockbridge, EH3 5AU. 0131 2251242.
Pharmaton
The School for Girls St George’s School Entrance Assessments 2015 Designed for girls in 1888, St George’s School for Girls, in Murrayfield, Edinburgh, has promoted and provided educational excellence for girls since its establishment. Applications are invited for entrance assessments for P1 and S1 entry in August 2015. Assessments will be held at the school on Saturday 10 January for P1, and Saturday 17 January for S1. Full details are available from Karen Batty, Admissions Manager T: 0131 311 8008, admissions@stge.org.uk and on the website www.stge.org.uk. St George’s offers financial support for families through means-tested bursaries of up to 100% remission of fees. Applications for bursaries should be submitted by the end of January 2015. “We are delighted that the school's excellent Advanced Higher results from 2013 and 2012 were formally recognised and that St George’s was at the top of the Best Schools' league table for Scottish Schools (ranked by Advanced Higher success at A and B grades) in 2013 and was named as best independent school in Scotland by The Financial Times in 2012. With a pass rate of 96% (grades A-C) in 2014, we are confident in our position as one of Scotland’s top schools.” To help cater for the needs of busy parents, the school also provides additional services such as school transport and wrap-around care between 8.00 am and 6.00 pm. Full details are available on the website www.stge.org.uk.
Could you be a host family? Academic Families is an Edinburgh based guardian agency which looks after international students when they come to boarding school in the UK. Although Academic Families is responsible for every student they rely on a team of host families to take an individual interest in each student. Most students are between 13 and 18 years old and return home for longer mid terms and holidays. Usually students only visit their host family for one or two weekends each term but of course hosts can visit their student at school, invite them for Sunday lunch and cheer them on at a school event. Academic Families takes responsibility for the students, organising their travel arrangements, and sorting out any problems that may arise so hosts are never on their own – in fact they simply have all the fun getting to know an interesting young person and including them in their family. Host families need to have sound family values, a sense of fun and adventure – oh and a spare bedroom for the student when they visit! Academic Families undertakes PVG disclosure checks on all adults in the home, organises all the arrangements and then hosts receive expenses for the stay so won’t be out of pocket. Your first step to hosting is to contact Academic Families and discuss expectations and discover if hosting is for you. www.academicfamilies.com
What will you and the kids be wearing on March 27th? Families are asked to support Wear A Hat Day, a fun-filled, annual brain tumour awareness event helping support research. The organiser, Brain Tumour Research, is asking families and children and schools across the UK to save the date, 27th March 2015, and register now. The involvement of families and school children in the campaign is poignant given that brain tumours are the biggest cancer killer of children and adults under the age of 40. And in many classrooms there remains a tragic reminder of a child whose life has been lost or damaged by this cruel cancer. Taking part is simple. Register today by visiting www.braintumourresearch.org/wearahatday. Fundraising materials including posters, leaflets, fridge magnets, pin badges, wristbands quizzes and hat making instructions. For further information email wearahatday@braintumourresearch.org or call the charity on 01296 733011.
We all know what it’s like to feel physically and mentally exhausted from a busy day at work or with the kids and coping with everything can be an everyday battle. Did you know that taking Pharmaton Vitality capsules helps reduce temporary tiredness and restore vitality when taken daily, and can be taken for a period of twelve weeks? Pharmaton Vitality capsules are packed with vitamins, minerals and the unique Ginseng G115 that’s clinically proven to relieve fatigue and also aid mental and physical wellbeing. Pharmaton Vitality capsules are also supported by over 30 clinical trials and studies. Try Pharmaton Vitality Capsules, to feel the positive difference. (Licensed medicine) For the relief of fatigue. Always read the label. (Text supplied)
New App launched to help families in Edinburgh get active for free Families in Edinburgh can now benefit from a new App that offers hundreds of short walking routes across Scotland, helping people to get active for free in their local area.
Ramblers Scotland developed the free Medal Routes App to inspire everyone in Scotland to be more active in their daily lives. Ramblers Scotland Medal Routes Project Officer, Rob Burns, said: “Family life can be very busy and it’s sometimes difficult to find time to catch up with all the family. Walking is a great way to spend some uninterrupted time together, as well as getting some exercise. Heading out as a family also helps to encourage children to form habits that will ensure a long and healthy life. The Medal Routes App is perfect for busy families to find a short route to walk near them at their convenience. The routes are circular and have three different levels, allowing people to choose how long they want to walk for.” Download now on Apple and Android devices and join a growing virtual community of people enjoying walking in Scotland – www.medalroutes.org
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eDInBurgH ACTIng SCHooL Edinburgh Acting School (EAS) has been around for over 30 years offering quality classes in speech and drama to those with a passion for acting. All tutors are experienced, friendly and working within the industry themselves to keep EAS the best at what it does. EAS provides an extensive programme of part-time courses in acting and related performance skills. It has given its many students, both adults and children, the opportunity to learn and train in a professional and supportive environment. Students are given a solid foundation in the performing arts and often go on to full-time training having developed confidence and gained experience. Classes are available to children and adults in class environments as well as individual lessons in voice work, presentation skills, audition work and many more tailored to suit your needs. We also provide exams for those interested and have a 100% pass rate! Classes start from Primary 1 age upwards. Email us at enquiries@edinburghactingschool.com for more info or to come join us!
kB-InSIgHTS
The ultimate pre-school dance experience NEW YEAR, NEW TIMETABLE! To find out more visit discoduckedinburgh or email discoduckedinburgh@btinternet.com
DISCo DuCk
Mid way through the school year! Is your child having difficulty concentrating? Is reading a struggle? Is getting your child to follow instructions exhausting? Do simple physical tasks like dressing themselves present a challenge? You thought there was a difficulty with listening, yet a hearing test noted ‘normal’. Such difficulties cause frustration so it may be a change in their behaviour you are dealing with. Maybe poor social skills with peers are evident. Your child is just not keeping pace with others, yet you know they are intelligent. Karen is an experienced Educationalist who looks beyond the presenting issues and offers a range of Interventions to support the development of reading, motor skills and listening and concentration. Various programme and assessment available Email Karen@Kb-Insights.co.uk 07837930714 www.Kb-Insights.co.uk
MuSIC LeSSonS – LAMP HouSe MuSIC High quality, affordable music lessons for all the family in a fun, friendly and welcoming environment. Since opening in April 2012, Lamp House Music (Haddington, East Lothian) has established a fantastic reputation. As a result of this success, the business has recently renovated an additional teaching room in its charming railway building, vastly increasing the music lesson times available and adding lots of new group classes to their timetable. A wide array of instruments are available including guitar, drums, vocals, ukulele, plus violin, piano and woodwind. Based close to Edinburgh just off the A1, Lamp House Music (Haddington) is easily accessible, with services including Pop Star Birthday Parties, youth projects and fully equipped professional rehearsal rooms. For more info and to book: 01620 825630 / www.lamphousemusic.co.uk
Disco Duck Edinburgh is very excited to announce his brand new Stockbridge Class. The Ultimate Pre-school dance experience designed for 18 months to 4 years has classes all over Edinburgh including Trinity, Corstorphine, South Queensferry, Portobello and he is also now adding a class in Stockbridge on Wednesdays at 1.45pm. If you’ve got a little one that loves to dance then why not check out one of our classes and get wiggling and giggling together! It’s just £2 for your first class with our very special furry friend. To find out more visit www.facebook.com/discoduckedinburgh or email discoduckedinburgh@btinternet.com
STeP IT uP DAnCe New term of classes for tots of 18 months right up to teens starts w/c 26th Jan in nurseries & communities across Edinburgh. www.stepitupdance.co.uk
BoogIe BeAT
www.boogiebeat.co.uk 07841 109730 or 0131 312 6535 6 FAMILIES EDINBURGH ISSUE 88
Put a mix of music, dance, singing, fairy tales, nursery rhymes, percussion instruments, parachutes and a very special monkey called Giggles together and the outcome is a fantastic energetic and fun class aimed at children aged 6 months to 5 years… otherwise known as Boogie Beat! The new Boogie Beat term starts in January 2015 with classes in Comely Bank, Ravelston, Barnton, Ratho, Fountainpark, Stirling and Bridge of Allan mornings and afternoons. Email zoe@boogiebeat.co.uk or call 07841109730 or 0131 312 6535 to reserve your place now. More information can be found on www.boogiebeat.co.uk or fb Boogie Beat music & movement Edinburgh and Stirling. I am also available to host Boogie Beat children's parties and workshops in nurseries, toddler groups and playgroups.
geT your CHILD ‘DAnCIng THrougH LIfe’ WITH eDInBurgH DAnCe SCHooL Edinburgh Dance School offer a great variety of dance classes for ages 2½ years upwards on Saturday mornings at Inch Park Sports Club and the Mary Erskine School, Edinburgh. Classes run from 9.30 am till 1.30pm and children can choose from Ballet, Tap, Modern, Performing Arts, and our very popular Junior Ballroom & Latin classes. Bring your child along for a free taster in any of our classes and get them fit, having fun and feeling positive for the week ahead. Where: Inch Park Community Sports Club & Mary Erskine School When: Saturdays 9.30am -1.30pm To Book: email us at info@edinburghdanceschool.co.uk or visit www.edinburghdanceschool.co.uk You can also call or text 07506572432
Monkey DrAMA Monkey Drama Classes are for children aged 2-5. These are great family classes where parents/carers can watch as the children go on a fun filled, imaginative Monkey Drama Adventure. Each week the children take away a certificate to show what they have Learned, Imagined and Explored. The classes are 45 minutes long and no adventure is the same. Drama is a great way for children to develop their personal and social skills and Monkey Drama encourage this throughout their classes. Children can also explore their worlds through their very own little imaginations. The classes use role play, characters, music and props to take the children to the moon, the wild west, on safari, the bottom of the sea…and everywhere in between! Classes currently run on Mondays at Juniper Green Village Hall at 2.15pm or 3.30pm. We also have classes at 3.45pm on a Thursday at Gorgie Memorial Hall, with more venues coming soon! If you are a nursery or school, please get it touch to book your classes! Book a Free trial by emailing alana@monkeydrama.co.uk, visit the website www.monkeydrama.co.uk or call 07736298013
kIP MCgrATH
PyjAMA DrAMA
For professional tuition in English and Maths book a free assessment out our Kip McGrath Centres in Marchmont and Inverleith. Our outstanding results speak for themselves and we have many :‘Our daughter gained the highest marks at the private school entrance exams and this meant a scholarship,’ Niamh. ‘Our son in P2 couldn’t read, hated his school reading and we just couldn’t get him to do any of it with us. He didn’t know any initial sounds…. Within a matter of weeks he learnt all of his sounds and started reading key words. Now he loves reading and his teacher at school has noticed a huge improvement. Thanks so much Indy’ R. Ahmed. For a FREE ASSESSMENT contact Indy on 07826525380 www.kipmcgrath.co.uk/edinburgh-central
Our motto at Pyjama Drama is ‘Sing, dance, pretend, play; where will our imagination take us today?’ and this very much sums up what happens in a class. Our priority is to encourage and allow children to use and explore their amazing imaginations in a variety of themed sessions. Not only are our classes lots of fun, they help children develop some important skills such as confidence, communication, concentration and co-operation. It’s also wonderful to watch children blossom before your eyes. Why not come along and try one of the ‘Monthly Saturday Specials’ at North Merchiston Club, 48 Watson Crescent, Edinburgh, EH11 1EP. (These are suitable for children aged 2 -5 years). For more information about Saturday Specials and all our weekly classes, please phone 0131 516 3099 or email: louisek@pyjamadrama.com
s ourse ay C d i l o a&H Dram vailable y l k A Wee
Monkey MuSIC Monkey Music, Edinburgh’s award winning musical class provider for pre-school children, is starting new Saturday morning classes at Tiki Tots Play Centre, Morningside from January. Saturday Classes will be held deep in the heart of the Jungle with free soft play before or after classes will be included in the class price. A great fun filled way to spend a Saturday morning with your little monkey(s)! Monkey Music Edinburgh South offer great fun classes in Balerno, Colinton, Fairmilehead, Marchmont, Morningside and Newington 6 days a week. Each class is packed full of movement, actions songs, sensory props and of course the all important instruments! For further information and to book a complimentary class please contact Lisa on 0131 441 4581 or email morningside.pentland@monkeymusic.co.uk
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Parent Parent Rachel has run the Monkey Music Franchise in North West Edinburgh for seven years and lives in the city centre with her daughter Beatrice aged 8 and their dog Jura. Favourite shop: Treehouse in Stockbridge has always been a fantastic asset to Stockbridge and is now offering workshops and taster sessions for children in their back room. TK Max and Ikea are also always fun for finding those things you hadn't a clue you needed!
Proudest eco-friendly moment: We recycle wherever possible and at Monkey Music we have been involved in supporting one of our nurseries with providing empty plastic bottles so they can make an eco playhouse.
Favourite park: Having a young dog means we walk her a lot and it is always great to combine favourite spots with a play park as well. Cammo Estate in Barnton is a wonderful place to go, as well as The Meadows, Inverleith Park and for amazing woodland walks we love Corstorphine Hill.
No parent should be without: The lastest edition of Families Magazine or a copy of Edinburgh for Under 5's. It is great to have a reference point of something different to do around the city on a particular day!
Favourite children’s club/class: Over the years we have been involved in lots of different clubs and classes with Beatrice, however the one that has always stood out is the swimming classes run by Edinburgh Leisure. The teaching is amazing and reasonable! Dance for All in Stockbridge offers great ballet, jazz and flamenco classes and it is definitely an Edinburgh intuition as I used to dance there as well when I little. The childrens art workshops run from the Galleries are also a great way to spend a Sunday afternoon and we have come home with many creations over the years!
Parenting high points (what makes it all worthwhile): Now my daughter is a bit older I think working your way through all the different stages of your childs development and then seeing them reaching a point where they can put some of those lessons into action is amazing. My daughter was recently involved in a race which she didn't win. Previously she would have been distraught but she dug deep, went and congratulated the other child and then came over and said "wow did you see how well she did, next time that will be me!" I could have wept!
Favourite day out: We spend a lot of time in Peebles and there is masses to do there with Go Ape, Glentress for cycling and beautiful family friendly cycle paths and forest walks. The EastGate Centre on Saturday morning is full of children's classes, activities and a great family cafe. Favourite child friendly restaurant: It has to be Porto and Fi in Newhaven every time for us as a family. Great family restaurant, delicious food and welcoming friendly staff. Skylark cafe in Stockbridge is also brilliant for children with delicious home made soup and baking and Jenn's Den is great for those crazy children's lunches where you never manage to finish a conversation - food is really good and young children always seem to have plenty to play with and do!
Funniest comment (from child): Beatrice aged 2 was given the part in the nursery nativity play as a Shepherd - she got home and handed me her line she had to say and said "I don't want to be a Shepherds Pie!" Still makes us laugh now! Favourite family holiday spot: You can't beat Scotland! We love camping and enjoy going to new places each year. Absolute favourite places are Colonsay and Oronsay. Dumfries and Galloway and Aaron. Best children’s book: You Choose - we have spent hours and hours over the years with this book and any Julia Donaldson book.
Best DVD: The Wiggles were a massive part of Beatrice's life when she was very young and then all the Disney Princess seem to become part of our lives for just too long! Favourite DVD now would have to be the Narnia series, Toy Story (but I can't watch Toy Story 3 as I fall apart), Parent Trap and got to be in there .... Frozen! Most played with toys: The dog! Barbie Dolls, dressing up, the trampoline (which we have inside) and the piano. Biggest waste of money: Oh so many things. Never be persuaded to buy anything on a whim! You will only regret it. Luckily for Monkey Music we get to use all the things that Beatrice hasn't even noticed are now moved from her toy box to the Monkey Music props room! Why you like living where you do: I lived in London for 15 years and even though I have been back for 7 years now I love the fact that Edinburgh is a village with so much to offer. So many things for children are so accessible and opportunities we can offer children in this city is brilliant.
As parents in Edinburgh you have so much fantastic local knowledge - if you would like to share your favorite bits of being a parent and living in our fantastic city then please email: editor@familiesedinburgh.co.uk
Anne Young BSc CBMI MIFPA Birthing Courses & Workshops Antenatal Relaxation Classes Breath Works 7a Alva Street, Edinburgh, EH2 4PH
Contact Anne 07811 073 202 www.scents-of-wellbeing.co.uk 8 FAMILIES EDINBURGH ISSUE 88
Pay Attention! But what if you can’t.... ...no matter how hard you try, your attention wanders and goes to many places, but not where you want it to. This may be Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), which is described as “a persistent pattern of inattention and/or hyperactivity-impulsivity that interferes with development, has symptoms presenting in two or more settings (eg home,school,work), and negatively impacts directly on social, academic or occupational functioning.” The symptoms must be present before age 12 (definition from DSM V). I prefer to think of ADHD in a less clinical manner by describing to the many children and adults that I work with, that ‘their brain is like having a super-powerful car, whose brakes are like those of a bicycle. Taking certain specific steps you can take advantage of the many benefits that ADHD conveys, while avoiding disasters on the way.’ There are 3 main types of ADHD • Inattentive - lack of attention,short attention span, difficulty blocking out background auditory or visual stimulation, difficulty with organisation of material and thoughts, losing, forgetting, misplacing things, difficulty with time management • Hyperactivity - difficulty sitting still, being fidgety, squirmy • Impulsivity - speaking or acting without thinking What Causes ADHD? There is no single factor that causes ADHD rather a combination of factors: • Genetics • Environmental • Inherited - if a parent has ADHD there is a 30% chance that children will inherit it The prevalence of ADHD in the United Kingdom is thought to be 2-5% in school-age children and young people, which equates to about 1 child in a class of 20. Childhood ADHD is more commonly diagnosed in boys than girls (NHS UK). How might ADHD Affect a Child’s Schooling? • Lower academic performance • Difficulty socialising • Poor concentration • Lack of working memory • Processing difficulties • Inability to stay focused and on task • Disorganised schoolbag, locker, desk All of these may create conflict with the teacher and friends which ultimately may result in low self-esteem, leading to school drop out and feelings of failure, depression and anxiety. Often, children with ADHD may also have one or more learning differences such as Dyslexia, Speech and Language Impairments.
You think your child may have ADHD, what next? For children there must be 6 symptoms of inattention and/or 6 symptoms of hyperactivity-impulsivity, for 6 months prior to assessment. To find a standard symptoms checklist please go to www.addiss.co.uk There is no fixed test to diagnose ADHD, but rather a series of visits with healthcare professionals starting with your GP and school educational psychologist to make a diagnostic evaluation. An individual treatment plan may include several interventions, based on the child’s requirements. Such as education, medication, diet, complimentary therapy, exercise, behaviour therapy and lifestyle changes. Encourage your child’s strengths, each person is unique and their ADHD is theirs, no two are the same. Lifestyle Changes The key lifestyle changes for your consideration are: • Sleep - make sure your child is getting enough, without enough sleep we all behave as though we have ADHD. • Electronics - reduce the amount of time spent on electronics such as phones, video games, TV and internet. Keep mobile phones out of the bedroom for a better sleep. • Diet - a balanced, healthy lifestyle. Our brains work better on a protein breakfast, as it is the best long-lasting source of fuel. • Exercise - regular, daily exercise for everyone, our bodies were designed to move not to sit for between 8-15 hours a day. Exercise stimulates the production of epinephrine, dopamine, and serotonin which is exactly like taking medication for ADHD but in a complimentary way. • Hugs and Smiles - positive human contact is so important for us all, next time you smile at someone you don’t know, take note of their reaction, you will likely make their day! Remind your child that ADHD does not define who you are, it is a part of who you are with its many strengths and challenges, it can be managed. There are many famous sports stars, TV personalities, Inventors, Authors, Actors etc who have had ADHD. For your consideration I recommend connecting with Dr Charles Parker, Dr John Ratey, Dr Edward Hallowell and Dr David Perlmutter on social media. For more information please contact: Jane Oliver, child and adult therapist at Bright Brain Scotland. Mob: 07512311317 E: jane@brightbrain-scotland.co.uk www.brightbrain-scotland.co.uk
Explore your favourite musicals! Thursdays, age 5+ Contact us for more details Also offering Kids dance classes, all styles for all ages Adult dance and fitness
07545551271 0131 443 0753 office@studiod14.co.uk
www.studiodedinburgh.co.uk The Basement @ 4 Hutchison Terrace, EH14 1QB
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Holidays Learning holidays Of course a holiday is a time to laze around and do nothing; but they're also bursting with opportunities to find out something new, and chasing those chances could give you the most fun of all. Joanna Moorhead reports. "A learning holiday?" said one of my daughters, when I suggested we could combine going on holiday with supplementing her education. "Have you gone completely bonkers?" I hadn't; but what I did realise, at that moment, was the folly of being upfront in my views about how holidays could be an opportunity to impart knowledge. The trick is never to mention it, and not under any circumstances to admit or volunteer that you are aiming to weave a thread of anything educational through your spring or summer break. But the truth is, holidays are one of the best learning opportunities a parent has - and finding out new things that complement what's happening in school can be a whole lot of fun when it's far from the classroom and a long way from home. In terms of focus, there are two possibilities. Either pick up on a child's existing passion — for art, perhaps, or for aeroplanes or fashion or whatever it is — or try to give them a new perspective on a subject they're finding difficult to engage with. In my own experience, I've always taken the former (easier) route; but I do sometimes think I should do more to help my kids with the parts of the curriculum they find hardest, and holidays could be the perfect time to do that.
Where to start? Here are some ideas.
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Art
Literacy
Children start learning about individual artists from nursery school. Pick an artist your child has talked about at school, or has seemed drawn to when you've looked at his/her work together. Easily-accessible artists who use a lot of bright colours are ideal - think Van Gogh, Hockney, Georgia O'Keeffe. It's easy to make any holiday art-orientated, since art galleries are everywhere: but if you want, you can make it about more than just museums. Try a trip to Arles in the south of France where you can see copies of Van Gogh's most famous paintings set up on permanent easels in the exact spot where he painted them, and dine at the Starry Night Café; or have a trip to Cornwall and find the landscapes and fishing village scenes made famous by the Newlyn School. Or holiday in Pont-Aven in Brittany, once home to Paul Gaugin; or head for Italy and one of the numerous artists' trails there such as the Piero della Francesca trail in Tuscany.
Literacy isn't just about books: taking your children to the places where the characters from, and authors of, their favourite books will show them a whole new side to reading. For younger children, theme parks such as Thomasland (www.draytonmanor.co.uk) or Peppa Pig World (www.peppapigworld), both open at February half term and then from March, bring their characters to life in a new way and will prompt even more interest in the books; older children might enjoy a trip to Haworth in west Yorkshire, home of the Brontes and their heartrending true story. Or head to the Jane Austen attractions in Hampshire, or to the Thomas Hardy museum in Dorset; or the Lake District for a taste of Wordsworth. Visit Scotland has a great section on Scottish literature that’s worth a look www.visitscotland.com and for a magical trip close to home the free Harry Potter Tour around Edinburgh is a brilliant way to spend a couple of hours. www.pottertrail.com
Science and nature
History
The simplest way to introduce nature into your holiday is to go for a walk in an undeveloped area, and to explore the green space around you. Look for bugs, birds, small animals and their habitats; if you're not very knowledgeable about these things yourself, head for a park or arboretum where there are trails and leaflets with advice on what to look out for. Star gazing is another great way to weave science into your holiday. You can see the stars from your back garden on a clear night, but a camping holiday is often the key to the most impressive display of the constellations. Wetlands centres and natural history and science museums are more great ways to introduce the subject into your vacations in an exciting way.
You can't go wrong with history: in fact, it's hard to have a holiday without it straying onto the margins even if you don't try. Castles, National Trust houses, museums, cathedrals, palaces; the world is heaving with history, and it only takes a tiny bit of imagination to put it into action on holiday. For something different, try taking your kids along to an event at a Historic Scottish, English Heritage or National Trust property designed to bring the history to life. Or join a child-friendly guided tour of a palace or cathedral good guides will be full of interesting stories that spark the imagination of even the child who might think history is boring in school. And don't forget to enjoy learning on holiday yourself!
Holidays 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, heated 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 awardwinning onsite restaurant with free baby monitors so you can enjoy gourmet French cuisine (and a few wines!) knowing your little ones are safe and sound just steps away. Visit www.dordognefamilyholiday.com for more information on this blissful family retreat!
Welcome to Gealach Lan (Full Moon) - a modern self-catering holiday cottage on the beautiful Isle of Jura. Located in a quiet setting close to the heart of Craighouse, it is within 500m of the island's shop, hotel/pub, cafe and village hall. The cottage sleeps six (plus cot or child’s bed) with a super king-size master-suite, second king-size double and a comfortable twin bedroom. The very well equipped family-sized kitchen-dinning area boasts spectacular views over Small Isles Bay and the living room is made cosy with a wood burning stove. The cottage is perfect for a family holiday and is an excellent base for exploring the Isle of Jura. Jura has some of the most spectacular scenery to be found in the Hebrides. With 115 miles of coastline there are plenty of sandy beaches to build sand castles on and the three ‘Paps’ provide walkers with a good challenge. The island is also a haven for wildlife with plenty of opportunities to observe Red deer, wild goats, seals, otters, golden eagles and if you are lucky enough dolphins and porpoises. There are plenty of things to do as a family on Jura including; renting a bike and cycling to the crofting communities, hiring a rowing boat to go mackerel fishing and collecting mussels on the rocky coastline. Or if this all sounds too exhausting just take a book and enjoy the views. Please go to www.gealachlan.co.uk or call 07906 158641 for further details.
Holiday Cottage on the Isle of Jura. Modern, comfortable and family friendly. Sleeps 6. Beautifully situated and surrounded by fantastic scenery. Plenty of wildlife and lots to do.
www.gealachlan.co.uk 07906 158641
The kids have fun and parents can relax and enjoy the peace at La Garenne family friendly gites. This is what La Garenne is all about, Specialising in family holidays in the Charente Maritime region of France. There are 6 stylish gites fully equipped for a fantastic family holiday. All the charm and beauty has been retained in this 16th Century fortified farm with beautiful exposed charentaise stone walls and oak beams through out. What makes this place so special is the setup of all the gites and the safety with in the walled garden. Each of the gites have a patio facing the communal walled garden with a fantastic wooden play house, ride on toys, climbing tree, tree swings, slides, and trampoline as well as a view to the swimming pools. A new enlarged pool with contemporary designed terrasse is being constructed for 2015 as well as a new baby and toddler pool. Both pools are heated and enclosed with a secure fence and child safe lock. Here you will also find a covered area with comfy seating. Also new for 2015 is a purpose build play area fully equipped with soft toys and a soft cushioned floor for the under 5’s. ( still under construction) There are lots of organised activities at La Garenne such as kids club for the over 3’s, pottery painting classes for adults and children and welcome BBQ. Babysitting can also be booked. Charente Maritime is the second sunniest department in France so warm weather is to be enjoyed throughout May – October. Take advantage of our lower prices in May, June and September. Travel mid week to lower your travel cost, we are flexible on arrival day and duration to suit your needs. Discounts are available on some weeks in May, June and September. Please quote Families when enquiring. Airports near by are Poitiers, La Rochelle and Bordeaux. Airlines such as Easyjet, Flybe, BA and Ryanair all fly to these destinations from as low as £100 return. For more details please contact Dorte on dorte@triliving.co.uk or visit www.familygites.org.uk
Superb gite complex in France...
...specialising in family holidays. Parents it is time to relax and enjoy the sun. We have thought of it all for you: • 2 heated pools incl. baby pool • Babysitting • Play house and play ground in safe garden • Arrivals meal & weekly food options • Indoor toddler play area • Kids club 3+ • Free wifi • Baby equipment free of charge
For further information visit www.familygites.org.uk email: dorte@triliving.co.uk
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Lessons in
Party Planning Like a lot of you, as a parent I have been to and thrown many, many children’s parties. Most have been amazing - some less so. There are two things that seem to play a huge part of a successful party - planning and luck. I am a meticulous planner but that doesn’t stop the rain falling/ the birthday cake not rising/ the car not starting/the birthday child being in a disgusting mood and wanting everyone to go home.... 10 lessons I have learnt: 1. Pick a date and let everyone know as early as
possible. Try to find out if anyone else is having a party the same day and if they are, try to pick a different date or see if they want to share. Going from one party to another is exhausting for everyone. 2. It is really annoying when people don’t RSVP.
I have been on both sides of this - we know we are/aren’t coming but just haven’t got round to communicating this. We know it’s really annoying for the person organising the party - because we’ve been that person organising a party and needing to know how many places to pay for, can the next person on the list be invited, how many party bags to buy..... 3. If the party is in your home or a hall an
uninvited sibling will inevitably end up staying so have a spare party bag or two How can you turn away that sad little face? Their brother/sister is being dropped off to a venue full of excitement and cake and you expect them to go home?! However, you are allowed to say no to extras. If there really isn’t space/you really can’t cope with extra numbers than say so. 4. The bruises and mental scarring of dragging
the screaming, kicking sibling who wasn’t allowed to stay home will eventually fade. One day. 5. Don’t put too much food out.
Either lots will get wasted or one child will eat until they are sick. And then when you come to pick your child up you get to feel really bad that your child is so greedy they threw up everywhere and others had to stop having fun to clear it up, and that the whole room smelt of sick for the rest of the party. And if anyone who was at that party is reading this - I still feel bad and I’m still sorry.
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6. Two hours is plenty for a party.
Plenty! 7. Party bags are a necessary evil.
In most cases the contents never make it out of the bags but they are expected. And loved by kids. Less so parents. 8. Gifts
No one will believe you when you say that you’d much rather they gave £1 - £2 to put into a birthday pot so that birthday boy/girl can buy one present rather than lots of small ones. Even though it’s a really good idea and would mean that as parent of the party go-er you didn’t have to stand sweating and panicking in a toy shop trying to find a suitable gift for a child you don’t even know. Or worse a child the opposite sex to your own so you really don’t have a clue. 9. Party Entertainers/Venues are worth their
weight in gold. They are the experts. They will have perfected the art of providing a great party, generating genuine squeals of delight and laughter, best methods of crowd control and generally making sure all the party people, especially the birthday child, have a fun, memorable time. In many cases they also do the tidying up. Sounds like an all round win to me. 10. It’s your child’s day.
I asked one of my daughters what her favourite birthday party has been - she told me she liked the one where I made an Incredibles cake, and the one where she got to dress up and sit in a throne, and the one at the soft play centre, and the one where I decorated the room as a fairy palace... So, now I’ve got to the end of this I can see that for me parties have been a bit stressful, a bit niggly, a bit not quite to plan. But for my birthday girls they have been wonderful, memorable, fun days full of friends, cake and a bit of magic. So, there’s lesson number 11 for me - it’s not about me.
Party Time! We’ve listed everyone and everything you should need to help give your child a wonderful, happy birthday. When you contact them remember they’d love to hear you found out about them in Families Edinburgh.
Cramond Kirk Hall Cramond Kirk Hall is an excellent venue for all sorts of functions, especially children’s parties. Rooms are available for quiet receptions or wild ceilidhs, formal or casual There is loads of space to burn off energy or to erect a bouncy castle in the Main Hall or have a more formal do in the luxurious Millennium Room. A commercial kitchen is available for the catering, crockery and cutlery is on site and there are loads of tables and chairs. Please contact Anthony Vennelle on 312 6911, 07979 795331 or avennelle@hotmail.com to discuss your requirements.
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HALLS LifeCare Edinburgh LifeCare Edinburgh has a number of rooms available to hire for the local community at their community centre based at Stockbridge House, 2 Cheyne Street, Edinburgh. We have rooms ranging in size from small meeting rooms to large halls suitable all types of events, from children’s birthday parties to weddings. If you are interested in any information about the classes in the centre or if you would like to hire a room please contact support services on 0131 3430940 or alternatively email: supportservices@lifecare-edinburgh.org.uk. LifeCare (Edinburgh) Limited is a charitable organisation, Charity Registration number SC 012641
CSI Parties for Kid Detectives Unique and tailor made children’s parties for budding detectives. From fingerprinting and hair analysis to facial photo fits using the latest software. Your children will have all the necessary skills to don their investigator suits and solve the crime. A crime scene within their very own home or party venue! CSI Parties are suitable for children aged 6 – 12 and include a CSI party bag. “Thank you for a wonderful party. From solving a crime scene to taking their finger prints it was perfect. I would highly recommend this.” Also Minecraft Quest and Lego Robotics parties. For more information see www.sescotland.computerxplorers.co.uk, email info@sescotland.computerxplorers.co.uk or call 0131 6530580
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Party Entertainers/Activities
Magical
Children's 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 can lead an hour’s ceilidh dancing and leave the rest of the party up to you, or stick around and do a few games after tea. But it’s still your party – you choose the venue, theme and so on – we just bring the music and ideas and help the guests have fun! www.ceilidhkids.com
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The Drama Studio – Themed Children’s Parties Pick a theme and a drama teacher will organise your party. We can include interactive story making, games, music, dancing, sketches quizzes and much more. Some of our most popular themes are – Medieval, Space, Pirates, Witches and Wizards, Fairies, Jungle and Pop Stars – or we are very happy to design a party around your child’s special interests. Prices start from £85 + VAT. Any numbers can be catered for, ages 3 and upwards. Call our party hotline 0131 444 1084. E-mail info@thedramastudio.com Early booking advisable!
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Boogie Beat classes are full of traditional stories and beautiful classical fairy tales which are structured around dance and music. I run regular weekly sessions for children 6 months to 5 years in classes, toddlers/playgroups/nurseries, birthday parties and weddings. Boogie Beat parties are really lively and the themes are based around Jungle, Super Heroes, Pirates & Princesses and are so much FUN! I use a wide range of lovely props, including puppets, scarves, bean bags, big ball, parachute and much more! zoe@boogiebeat.co.uk or 07841109730
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Boogie Beat
Music Bugs Music Bugs are available for birthday parties for boys and girls aged 1 – 5 years. Our parties are great fun and we can accommodate up to 20 children. We will plan every step of your child’s birthday session with you, making sure that all their favourite Music Bugs songs and props are included. Our parties cost £80 for 45 minutes and the price includes party invitations, a small gift for the birthday child and a balloon and sticker for each party guest. For further information or to discuss planning your party, please contact Shelley on 0844 822 1159 or shelley@musicbugs.co.uk
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Monkey Music parties are great fun for under 5's! We love doing parties and every event is tailored to suit each occasion. Our parties last for up to an hour and include the same award winning ingredients: musical games, playing instruments and much more. We can provide birthday party invitations and a special birthday gift for your child to help remember their special day with Monkey and your party will be a very special occasion for all your guests! Lisa Fleming in Edinburgh South on morningside.pentland@monkeymusic.co.uk or 441 4581. Rachel Huggins in Edinburgh North West on comelybank.corstorphine@monkeymusic.co.uk or 260 9667
Soccerstarts Soccerstarts Football Academy provide Brilliant Birthday Parties for children from 3 Years - 10 Years. We can visit you at a local sports venue or community centre near you. Our football parties consist of 1 hours of fun with a full qualfied coach who will arrange Football games and competitions. Our Packages are: Option one: One Hours Game time with coach for £5.50 per Child Otion Two: One Hours Game time with coach & Football party bag for every child who attends and all Football Party Tablewear (plates, cups, napkins, table cover) for £7 per child. For more information contact: email: J.smith@soccerstarts.co.uk or phone 07923 005534
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Monkey Drama parties are a great option for all children aged 2-6. Monkey Drama will take your children on an hour long themed Drama session which will be filled with drama, imagination, energy and fun from beginning to end, including lots of props, music and role play! You will receive invites, a couple of theme related party games included in the session as well as some prizes, a certificate for all children and a special Monkey Drama gift bag filled with goodies for the birthday child. Our standard party themes are A Day at the Zoo, Superhero’s, Pirates, Off to the Fairground and The Hidden Rainbow. For prices, more details and availability contact alana@monkeydrama.co.uk, call 07736298013 or visit www.monkeydrama.co.uk
Huggy Bears Have a bear making party with Huggy Bears no sew bear and animal kits. The easy to use kits include your chosen bear or animal, stuffing, hugs and kisses, birth certificate and full instructions – just stuff, pull closed and cuddle. Plus, each Huggy Bear comes in its own bag, no need for expensive party bags. Extras include bear sized t-shirts for decorating, voice boxes and clothing. We can provide a party hosting service, or you can host yourself. Full information available at www.huggybears.co.uk or call us on 0333 335 0120.
Add originality and style to your child’s special day with an award-winning Step It Up Dance party! We offer Creative Dance or Urban Dance parties for age 3 - 5 and Urban Dance or Cheerleading parties for ages 5 - 12. Our parties are highly active and can be tailor-made just for you, accommodating any theme and can include original dance-themed party games, teaching of dance moves and routines, active, creative storytelling (for younger children), performance of dances for parents & carers, an award ceremony with personalised certificates and a medal for the birthday child and lots more! Kids not only enjoy an active and fun dance party, they also gain a real sense of achievement and with loads of praise thrown in, you will see their selfesteem grow before your very eyes! Please visit www.stepitupdance.co.uk for more details and keep an eye on our facebook page www.facebook.com/stepitupdance for feedback from happy parents and kids.
Tumble Tots We would love to take the stress out of your little one’s birthday party. No need to worry about the weather, the children can play and be active indoors. You can hire a hall near you. The parties run for an hour and a half with fun from start to finish and are age specific. The children will climb, balance, enjoy forward rolls and above all have fun in a safe and caring environment. Finishing off with the parachute fun. For children aged a year to 7 years, a parent would need to assist children under 3 years old. Please contact Jo for parties in Edinburgh East and South area on 01875 819966 ★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★
Pyjama Drama Welcome to the world of Pyjama Drama – a world in which anything can happen! Our themed parties are packed full of drama games, music and activities . We offer two types of party, an astounding Adventure Party for children up to five years and a fully interactive Performance Party for children between 5 - 7 years. We'll attend your party armed with stickers, balloons and a HUGE imagination, so if you're having your very first birthday or are nearly all grown up, look no further for an action packed party that will delight your guests with an unforgettable experience! For more information please phone 0131 516 3099 or email: louisek@pyjamadrama.com
! e id l S d n a e id R Exciting new snow tubing comes to Hillend
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Damo and Marvo Fun filled children's party entertainment for all ages. Our Magic parties featuring Marvo The Magic Rabbit are a real hit with both children and adults alike! Or how about our action packed kids disco party with colourful disco lights, exciting games, party dances and more. We pride ourselves on being experienced family entertainers and have the ability to entertain not just the kids but everyone who comes along. When you book a party with us we will ensure every child goes home with a smile on their face and one of our balloon models. www.damoandmarvo.com 01620 820337 ★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★
3v2 Soccer Academy Parties! Are you looking for ideas on how to make your child's next birthday different, special and fun? Then look no further... Allow us to help! Our fully qualified, fun loving and enthusiastic staff understand that it's a very special day on your child's calendar, so do all they can to ensure it's as memorable as it should be. Four fantastic party packages are available and include personalised invitations, wristbands, medals, trophies, footballs and photographs of the day itself! For full further details please see our website or call us in person. www.3v2socceracademy.co.uk Roddy Maughan 07872448788 or Murdo Steven 07969434840
ng new snow on the exciti n ow d e id sl orts Centre Ride up and thian Snowsp lo id M at s n tubing ru e family
It’s fast & it’s
fun for all th
Call 0131 445 4433 to book your party or group. See our website for all the details at ski.midlothian.gov.uk Midlothian Snowsports Centre, Hillend, Biggar Road, Edinburgh EH10 7DU
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Rugbytots
Hula Hoop Workshops and Parties! Hula Honeys is obsessed with sharing the joy of hooping with people of all ages. Hooping is possibly the most happy activity you can think of. Children LOVE to hoop on and off their bodies, to learn simple routines and to play AMAZING hooping games. Hula Honeys offer original and fun children's birthday parties. We are available to come into schools, youth clubs or independent venues for workshops. To find out more about Hula Honeys please contact Kim Sibbald at kim.sibbald@hulahoneys.co.uk or phone 07824 641133. Hula Honeys is keen to promote fitness and well-being in whole community and also leads adult bootcamps, fitness classes and hoop jams in Morningside Edinburgh ★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★
Rugbytots are now offering a new party experience suitable for all children aged between 4-7years. The content is focused on games with mass participation, to be enjoyed by anyone who loves a good runabout. The content is not skill specific, so if you do not attend one of our weekly classes, you won’t be at a disadvantage. Our coaches are enthusiastic and well trained to ensure everyone has an enjoyable experience. “Thanks for a great party on Sunday. The whole family enjoyed it!! The games where fantastic and kept all the children very well entertained” For further details please contact Sandra at sandra@rugbytots.co.uk or 0845 313 3252 ★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★
Have an Acting Out UK Party! You bring the food - we bring the entertainment! Let your children Act Out during the best party of the year (theirs)! We can provide a drama/dance/singing party based around on a theme of your child's choice (from Princess Parties, Fantasy Fun (like the Hobbit), Frozen or other Disney Classics, Catwalks, Ballroom Glitz, Dinosaurs or Animal Themes, Pirates and even Vampires (and everything in between)! We also provide prizes for the games and party goodie bags for the children to take home. Parties start from only £99 including goodie bags and prizes! Get in touch at hello@actingoutuk.com/07704714607. www.actingoutuk.com
Jo Jingles Jo Jingles offers fun, musical parties for babies and children up to 5 years, held at a venue of your choice or in your home. We use lively action songs, musical instruments, songs with a parachute as well as lots of other fun props. We tailor your party individually and can include your child's favourite songs or your theme. Jo Jingles parties are great fun and everyone can join in with our familiar songs. Call Joanne 0131 443 4196 (West Edinburgh and West Lothian) or Susan 078550 13232 (East Edinburgh and Midlothian) or Leigh 01875 616607 (East Lothian and Borders) ★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★
A-Star Sports A-Star Sports parties offer fun-filled and inclusive games for everyone. For children 3+ years, our parties focus on fast paced and fun games that keep children engaged from start to finish. For children 7+ years, we offer sports-based and/or themed parties for an action-packed multi-sports adventure and families can choose to have activities from our range of ten core sports. Invite up to 30 friends for a fun packed 2 hours* for the most memorable sporty occasion. *Subject to venue size and chosen activities. Visit www.a-starsports.co.uk/local-classes/edinburgh or call Brian on 07876021073. ★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★
Beano the Clown In my clowning, I use magic, music, juggling and balloon modeling. My shows are in one or two hours, for the under 5s or the over 5s. Children become the magicians, everybody participates, each child gets a balloon. The birthday boy gets a motorcycle with five balloons and the birthday girl a Tweety Bird on a perch. With the under 5s, we play two songs on the guitar, do magic with a puppet and finish with the balloons. In the two hour show, we play games after the magic and balloons. I also have a show for toddlers. As seen on GMTV, Nickelodeon and BBC2: "Beano, the newsnight clown" - Jeremy Paxman. I am a member of Equity and Clowns International and have a CRB check. Tel: 07948-070 569 Website: Beano.theclown.free.fr (without www) ★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★
Eat - Play - Party Jenn's Den Parties from £56
10% off with this voucher (t&c apply) Quote 'JD parties 2015' at time of booking to receive the Discount.
COme anD BOunCe arOunD at eDinBurgh’S OnLY trampOLine, aCtivitY & partY Centre
unit 2-3, 109 restalrig road, edinburgh eh6 7nY tel: 0131 553 7676 www.clownaround.me.uk 16 FAMILIES EDINBURGH ISSUE 88
31 Corbiehill Road, Edinburgh EH4 5BQ
Open Seven Days 9-5
0131 312 7077 info@jennsden.co.uk
As well as parties at our studio we can also offer a take home party in a box kit. 29 Marchmont Crescent Edinburgh, EH9 1HQ. 0131 229 1399
Disco Duck Edinburgh is now running parties… Do you have a little one that loves to dance? Are you planning a party? Then why not invite Disco Duck along as your special guest? Our 45 minute parties are a combination of Disco Duck dances and movement based fun and games. We will have your little ones wiggling and jiggling and the grown-ups too!! Our parties are suitable for 2 – 5 years old and can be held in a venue of your choice or your home. For more information email discoduckedinburgh@btinternet.com or call Claire on 07871633260. ★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★
Lttle Ninjas Why not choose to be different and hold a little ninjas themed birthday party. The session will showcase your child and have them lead in all the martial arts demonstrations making them feel like a champion. Have them board braking, kicking pads and playing fun games. Various packages available and we can come to your venue and take the session letting you sit back and relax. All coaches are fully qualified, insured and hold full disclosures. For more info visit www.little-ninjas.co.uk. ★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★
Honey Pot Ceramics Our Birthday Parties are perfect for children who love their arts and crafts. Introducing our "Party in a Box" - choose your activity and we'll send everything you need to your home or chosen venue. Contact us on: 0131-333-6348 info@honeypotceramics.com ★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★
Tatty Bumpkin parties – bend, stretch, dance and play! We take the children on a magical yoga adventure with music, games and movement. The party can be tailored to your child’s specific request - sail like a pirate, find the fairy woodland, roar with the lions or swim with dolphins. Some comments from customers: "SO good!", “it was absolutely brilliant”, "the best party ever", “it was exactly what I wanted and the kids had a fantastic time” Parties for 2 – 7 year olds in Edinburgh. Invites included. Prices depend on duration, and numbers– call to discuss your requirements. Email: edinburghwest@tattybumpkin.com Phone: 07411 571001 www.tattybumpkin.com/edinburghwest/parties.html ★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★
Kiss the Fish 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 07467 088409 or www.kissthefishstudios.com for details. ★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★
Dynam-nic Dance Every year a child's birthday is special. Let Dynam-nic Dance create a bespoke dance party for your dancing star! Using your chosen music tracks, we create a mash up dance routine which we present at the end of the party in a Mini Show. 0754 5551271 or 0131 4430753
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Almond Valley
Honey Pot
Arts & Crafts Studio Fantastic arty, crafty Birthday parties for all ages. Ceramics, glass, Decopatch, Soaps, Bathbombs, messy play, Jute Bags
As well as all the great attractions of Almond Valley your special party will enjoy exclusive two hour use of a party room, a tasty birthday tea from a choice of two menus, a half an hour session in Morags Meadow Indoor Soft Play, your own private Tractor and Trailer Ride and each child will receive balloons, badges and tooters all at the low price of £8.50 per child (min 10 children) Options available for adults starting at £1.50 per adult and we can also do children s party boxes at £3 per child. Please telephone in advance to check for availability on your chosen date 01506 414957
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Party Venues/On site Clown Around – Soft Play, Trampoline & Party Centre A fantastic family run venue to hold your child’s special day. Let the kids run off some excess energy on our large trampolines, have fun in our large softplay climbing frame or chill out in our new sensory room. You’ll then have exclusive use of our large decorated party room (complete with music and disco lights). Your own party co-ordinator will ensure everything runs smoothly. Hot and cold food options available. Suitable for up to 10 years, prices from just £6.50 per child. Open 7 days 10am - 5.45pm (last entry 4.45pm) 109, Restalrig Road, Edinburgh, EH6 7NY. Call 0131 553 7676 to book your party now. For all packages see www.clownaround.me.uk 10% off all parties booked in January 2015 for anytime in 2015. T&C apply.
For more details please visit
www.honeypotceramics.com
or better still pop in and see us. Based at the EICA Ratho, South Platt Hill, EH28 8AA
UNDER NEW MANAGEMENT ★Party packages available BOOK NOW for birthdays Pre-school soft play open ★ s ie rt Pa t Teenage Discos star ★ from 8 only £ ad 9-4 Mon-Fri, 10 -2 Sat-Sun per he with a seperate refurbished café ★ Check our Facebook page for daily activity sessions Open: Mon-Fri 9am-4pm, Sat-Sun, 10am-2pm 39 Baileyfield Road, Edinburgh EH15 1NA • 0131 669 1231
www.planetcafeedin.co.uk
Let’s get your party started!
Beano the Clown Magic, Balloons, Songs & Games -5s & +5s, 1hr & 2 hr,
Tel: 07948-070 569 Web: Beano.theclown.free.fr
Maddie & Mark’s Play Town at Ocean Terminal is paradise for a party. There’s a fantastic range of themes to choose from - Baby & Toddler, Pirates & Mermaids, Fairies & Knights, Frozen, Superhero, Chocolate Fondue, Pamper or Simply Softplay. There’s something to suit tinies to teens. There’s delicious, freshly prepared food from our seaside café too with tasty treats tailored to your party theme. From Dragon Lollies and Pirate Ship Hotdogs to Super Juice to keep the kids enthralled even while eating. You also get a dedicated party host and a delightful view right across the Firth of Forth and the Royal Yacht Brittannia. A party at Maddie & Mark’s Play Town all adds up to a perfect party – let the kids have a ball and you don’t have to clean up after them! Get your party started today, call 0131 343 3289 or email parties@maddieandmarks.co.uk www.maddieandmarks.com
Dynam-nic Dance Let Dynam-nic Dance create a bespoke dance party for your dancing star! Using your chosen music tracks, we create a mash up dance routine which we present at the end of the party in a Mini Show. From Pirates to Cheerleaders, One Direction to Little Mix, we can guarantee a high energy, full of smiles party! Packages from £110. Including our full Studio package, a readily available party venue within our dance studio. Including a separate food room and DNDance party invitations. (Age 5+. min 10/max 28 children) Contact us for more details nicky@dndance.co.uk www.dndance.co.uk 0754 5551271 or 0131 4430753
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Ride and Slide Snow Tubing Parties at Midlothian Snowsports Centre Come and enjoy our premium tubing parties for everyone from primary 4 upwards. Ride up the travelator and slide down our new purpose built tubing runs on round inflatable doughnuts. It’s fast, fun and exciting! We also offer junior tubing parties for ages 4+. These junior tubing parties take place on the nursery slope and are great fun! You can sit, spin, and go backwards, hold on to the person next to you. After an exhilarating hours tubing, whatever your style of party, food and drinks are provided in Cafe 360. We even provide free party bags! Please phone us to check availability. Early booking is advised. Call 0131 445 4433 for more information or to book your party
Parties at Jenn’s Den At just £7.00 per child our standard play party is a popular choice for a simple, good value, birthday party. Kids can play in a safe and fun environment and accompanying adults are welcome too. • • • • • •
One hour of play Tasty birthday buffet in our exclusive area Bring your own cake (children’s cake only) Tables reserved for accompanying adults (when purchasing food/drinks) Help on hand from our friendly staff Guests can stay and play after the party
Parties for any time in 2015 booked by the end of January 2015 will receive a 10% discount - just quote JD Parties 2015 www.jennsden.co.uk (t&c apply) ★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★
Gambado Edinburgh’s largest soft play centre, Gambado, has extended its bespoke party packages to include everything from Princess and Make a Bear to Tiger and Foam Dart Frenzy. The centre, which features a 3-tier climbing frame with ball cannons and slides, climbing wall, traditional carousel and gated sensory area for toddlers, has 6 party rooms for up to 30 kids aged 1 -12 years. Parties start from £7.95 and include a special gift for the birthday child, rides on the carousel, magic tricks and games, buffet, squash and water, party host and optional character guest appearances. Invites, party bags, thank you cards and catering for the parents is also available for an additional cost. Call 0131 202 3566 today. ★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★
Recording Studio Kids Parties One and a half hours of laughter and fun for only £15pp (min 10 - max 20). As well as singing together as a group, the birthday girl/boy will be encouraged to sing a solo part too. And we will also help to encourage any ideas the kids may have for their recording. The resulting mix will be burned to CD for each participant. The entire event will be photographed and an mp3 of the track will also be provided. You are welcome to bring your own food and drink along. 107 High Street, Royal Mile. To find out more or to book your party go to www.royalmilerecordingexperiences.com
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Toots, the party venue for the under 5's. Private hire available from as little as £129.00. Standard Play Party - 1 1/2 hours exclusive use and party food. Kiddies Disco and Play Party - 1 1/2 hours exclusive use, party food, hosted party games & prizes, disco lights and dancing. Prices from £145 Toots can also supply party bags, cakes and sandwiches for the grown ups, tea & coffee. Extended hire is also available. Full details available at www.tootsplay.com or email info@tootsplay.com. ★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★
Mikes Military Mayhem We are Proud to Offer.....A Birthday Party to remember. Mikes Military Mayhem is a fun packed outdoor activity party for everyone from age 6 upwards! Have a blast on the obstacle course, work in teams to ward off the enemy, carry out a secret mission all with limitless water, mud and FUN. Each party booking is tailored to suit the age and ability of recruits. Encouragement is limitless and everyone leaves as a hero. We provide invitation/camouflage face paint/a certificate for every recruit/birthday card/water/juice. MMM is only 50 minutes from central Edinburgh in the beautiful Scottish Borders. W: www.mikesmilitarymayhem.co.uk E: mikesmilitarymayhem@hotmail.co.uk M: 07810562543
Doodles offers a great party package in its Marchmont studio. Acrylic painted pottery such as miniature animals, picture frames, trinket boxes and other ornaments can be taken home the same day at a cost of £10 per head. Items which need to be food safe, such as mugs or plates cost £11 per head and will be ready for collection after 3 days. Doodles provides sweets and juice and parents may bring other party food and a birthday cake. Up to 30 children can be accommodated in the studio. Doodles is really a perfect destination for any age to come and party (from 1 upwards) You can also customise your party to suit your budget, for example they could all paint a door plaque or hand print tile for £6 a head. We are always happy to discuss your party ideas with you. We can also offer a take home party in a box kit. We also now do decopatch as a 3rd party option from £8 per head. 29 Marchmont Crescent, Edinburgh, EH9 1HQ. 0131 229 1399
One of Edinburgh’s best kept party secrets – Dance Base Create a dream dance party for the young dancer in your family at Dance Base! Your child chooses a track by their favourite artist and an experienced dance teacher will theme a party around it. Over an hour in their amazing Grassmarket studios, they'll create a fun, simple routine with the children. After dancing, parents can bring their own food and enjoy the space for another hour – eating, dancing or playing party games! Parties cost £150, which includes 1 hour with a teacher and 2 hours studio space. Parents looking for a party with a difference should look no further. dancebase.co.uk
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enjoyleisure offers a birthday celebration packed full of active fun! Choose from a wide range of options including aquarun pool parties, bouncy castles, soft play, trampolines and climbing wall parties! You can also hire one of our indoor halls or outdoor synthetic pitches to deliver a sporting activity party of your choice. COMING SOON! A brand new multi-level adventure soft play area at the Loch Centre, Tranent! Call 01875 824140 for details. For information about each party option and catering available visit www.enjoyleisure.com
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enjoyleisure
Honey Pot Ceramics Our Birthday Parties are perfect for children who love their arts and crafts. A wide range of activities to choose from to suit all ages. Messy play parties, ceramic painting, soap/bath bombs, jewellery, glass fusing, pottery wheel, Introducing our "Party in a Box" - choose your activity and we'll send everything you need to your home or chosen venue Parents and children love our parties but don't just take our word for it - check out our reviews on Trip Advisor. “Brilliant birthday party!!” review 25/11/14 Contact us on: 0131-333-6348 info@honeypotceramics.com
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Cramond Kirk Hall Rooms All Sizes for Parties & Events
Choose any backing track of your choice 11⁄2 hours fun fILLeD in the studio - we ALSo photograph the whole event
Kids Recording Studio Parties From only £15.00pp
you are free to bring along your own food and drink Call 0131 312 6911 or 07979 795331 avennelle@hotmail.com
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Call us now on 0131 556 4882 or email: info@rmre.co.uk
www.royalmilerecordingexperiences.com
Providing an incredible experience as real Pop Stars, groups of friends can enjoy 2 hours of singing and recording fun, in the modern rehearsal and recording studios of Lamp House Music. Choose favorite songs – rehearse with lyrics and backing music - then with the help of a professional sound engineer, lay down those tracks! Also includes: Photo Shoot, Party Tea, VIP Passes, CD for every guest, 1 CD of photographs plus fun and friendly staff to host your party. Suitable for ages 8+ Lamp House Music - renowned for their music lessons, music schools and fun activities - promise the best party EVER with a Pop Star Birthday Party! More info/to book: www.lamphousemusic.co.uk / 01620 825630 ★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★
Active Parties with Edinburgh Leisure Children love being active and parties are the perfect opportunity to let them run wild. Just treat them to a party with us and you won’t have to run wild organising it. We’ve so many parties at so many venues around the City it’s difficult to choose! From EICA:Ratho to the Royal Commonwealth Pool, from Gracemount Leisure Centre to Drumbrae, we’ve 10 venues with a mix of gymnastics, softplay, climbing, Rock Tots Playroom, multi-sport and games, bouncy castles, football, swimming and even go-karting. Phew! So there’s a brilliant Edinburgh Leisure Active birthday for every child. For more information visit www.edinburghleisure.co.uk/activities/birthdayparties
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 occasion a delightful and memorable experience for everyone. So, whatever your party choice you 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/party or call 0131 308 2464 and speak with our friendly staff. ★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★
Contini Gelateria We are very excited to launch our new and totally yummy gelato ice cream parties at Contini Gelateria in Cannonball House just next to Edinburgh Castle. Our purpose built parlour is a beautiful venue for any party from 20 to 40 guests whether little ones or grown up we've got packages to suit every taste. Following in our family food footsteps our Gelato parties are focused around great quality food and amazing homemade artisan ice cream. Our gelaterista will be on hand to give top tips on how to make the very best ice cream and most fabulous sundaes! Bookings 0131 225 1550 (opt 4) ★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★
Party Planet Party Planet is a unique party venue, which offers themed and bespoke parties from ages 1+ to teenagers. Recent new additions include: Star Wars, Football Fever, balloon modelling and Ice cool 'Frozen'. Everything is taken care off from entertaining the kids, yummy party food, party bags, themed cups balloons and plates. No mess, no stress, all you need to do is turn up and relax! Planet Cafe is also open during the week, offering mini soft play sessions, offering a delicious menu, Artisan Roast coffee, afternoon teas and home baking all in a warm comfortable cafe. 39 Baileyfield Road, Edinburgh EH15 1NA Tel: 0131 669 1231 Email: hello@planetcafeedin.co.uk www.planetcafeedin.co.uk
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Lamp House Music
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TimeTwisters Play & Party Centre
Edinburgh Butterfly & Insect World Edinburgh Butterfly & Insect World hold Children's Parties on Saturdays and Sundays starting at 10.30am and 1pm (or any time midweek depending on availability). Parties last a maximum of 2hrs, include use of the Party Room and a private talk, tour of the attraction and animal handling session for up to 20 children. Party Lunch Boxes, Personalised Luxury Cake, Party Bags and a sign displayed in our Burmese Python's tank can all be arranged as part of your party! For further information and costs or to make a booking, please e-mail info@edinburghbutterfly-world.co.uk or call 0131 663 4932. ★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★
www.familiesedinburgh.co.uk All this and more online at www.familiesedinburgh.co.uk
Remember to say you saw it in Families Edinburgh Next issue March/April 2015
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21 for
outdoor adventure and interaction themed parties for iboys and girls aged 6-15 years ibirthday parties and group ibookings
get muddy get outside get wet have fun
ibook now
tel 07810 562543
www.mikesmilitarymayhem.co.uk ellwyn glen | galashiels | scottish iborders 21 FAMILIES EDINBURGH ISSUE 88
Fashion For Eyes Clare Downes of Downes Opticians, Leith, writes about Fashion. Inspired by my recent New York trip I felt it was about time I wrote an article about fashion and eyewear. Like it or not your spectacles make a statement about you and your style, perhaps even more so than your clothes, after all they are sat on your nose for all to see! The fashion savvy themes for this year are: 1. Texture – frame materials such as velvet, leather, bone, wood and bamboo. 2. Shape – Round is particularly on trend, however a tricky shape to wear so alternatively square styles, the bigger the better, oversized is very much in vogue. Anything with an air of Retro is also very cool. 3. Colour – Two tone colours are back, colour pops of clashing colours like reds with pink, blues with violets. Strong block colour of browns and blacks are also in fashion.
Matching Frames to Face Shapes You should consider three main points when choosing an eyeglass frame for your face shape: 1. Eyewear should repeat your personal best feature (such as a blue frame to match blue eyes). 2. The frame shape should contrast with your face shape. 3. The frame size should be in scale with your face size. Unless following the trend of oversizing.
Also, while most faces are a combination of shapes and angles, there are seven basic face shapes: Round A round face has curved lines with the width and length in the same proportions and no angles. To make a round face appear thinner and longer, try angular narrow frames to lengthen the face, a clear bridge that widens the eyes, and frames that are wider than they are deep, such as a rectangular shape. Oval An oval face is considered to be the ideal shape because of its balanced proportions. To keep the oval's natural balance, look for frames that are as wide as (or wider than) the broadest part of the face, or walnut-shaped frames that are not too deep or too narrow. Oblong An oblong face is longer than it is wide and has a long straight cheek line and sometimes a longish nose. To make an oblong face appear shorter and more balanced, try frames that have more depth than width, decorative or contrasting sides that add width to the face, or a low bridge to shorten the nose. Base-Down Triangle A base-down triangular face has a narrow forehead and widens at the cheek and chin areas. To add width and emphasize the narrow upper third of the face, try frames that are heavily accented with colour and detailing on the top half or cat-eye shapes. Base-Up Triangle This face has a very wide top third and small bottom third. To minimize the width of the top of the face, try frames that are wider at the bottom, very light colours and materials and rimless frame styles (which have a light, airy effect because the lenses are simply held in place by a few screws, with no surrounding frame material). Diamond Diamond-shaped faces are narrow at the eye line and jawline, and have broad cheekbones that may be high and dramatic. To highlight the eyes and soften the cheekbones, try frames that have detailing or distinctive brow lines, or try rimless frames or oval and cat-eye shapes. Square A square face has a strong jaw line and a broad forehead, plus the width and length are in the same proportions. To make a square face look longer and soften the angles, try narrow frame styles, frames that have more width than depth, and narrow ovals.
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Colour Analysis You may be tempted to choose a frame colour that "goes with everything." But consider instead a colour that truly flatters you and helps you make your personal style statement. As long as you're open to new colour ideas, you'll never be accused of having boring eyewear. The three keys to colour analysis are: 1. All people have either cool (blue-based) or warm (yellow-based) colouring. 2. Everyone looks best in his or her own colour base. 3. Eyewear colour should complement personal colouring. Once you have determined if you are "warm" or "cool," then you can find the frame colours that will suit you the best. For warm colouring try these colours: camel, khaki, gold, copper, peach, orange, coral, and offwhite, fire-engine red, warm blue and blond tortoise. For cool colouring, the best frame hues are black, silver, rose-brown, blue-grey, plum, magenta, pink, jade, blue and demi-amber (darker) tortoise.
Helps children to move forward, overcome anxieties, habitsand behaviours holding them back. Working with parents to help improve communication at many levels with their children. Masterful Parenting course - book now! Mind Matters - preparing for exams Individual sessions throughout the year Call karen 07837930714 www.kidsnlpscotland.co.uk
Now it wouldn’t be a families article if we didn’t spend a little time talking about our lovely kiddies: If you're a parent in search of the right pair of glasses for your child, you probably know that walking into an Opticians can be confusing. How do you figure out which ones your child is willing to wear and will last longer than the journey home? To begin with, most children who need glasses are either long or short sighted. Some kids will be instructed to take their glasses off for schoolwork, while others need to have them on every waking moment. Here are 9 items to consider to make your trip to the Opticians an enjoyable experience and to ensure that you get children's glasses that will endure. 1 Lens Thickness The spectacle prescription is always the primary consideration in choosing glasses. Before you start looking for the frames, consult with the optometrist or dispensing optician about lens considerations. If the prescription calls for strong lenses that are likely to be thick, it is important to keep the frames as small as possible to reduce the final lens thickness. Also, smaller lenses tend to have fewer distortions near the edge of the lens reducing blur. 2 Fashion Forward Whether they are full or part-time eyeglass wearers, most kids get at least a little teasing about their specs, especially the first time they wear them. So it's very important that they avoid frames that make them look "uncool." Just keep in mind that the real object is to get your child to wear the glasses. Extra enticement may be found in ultra-cool features like photochromic lenses with tints that darken outdoors, which may help inspire any child to want to wear glasses. 3 Copying Mummy and/or Daddy Many manufacturers copy adult styles for children's frames. Kids may be attracted to these styles because they look more grown-up. It's not unusual for kids to ask for glasses that look just like Mum's or Dad's. In the past, plastic frames were a better choice for children because they were considered more durable, less likely to be bent or broken, lighter in weight and less expensive. But now manufacturers are making metal frames that incorporate these features as well and now there are flexible metal materials making frames almost unbreakable. Ask for hypoallergenic materials if your child has shown sensitivity to certain substances. 4 Proper Bridge Fit One of the toughest parts about choosing suitable frames for young children is that their noses are not fully developed, so they don't have a bridge to prevent plastic frames from sliding down. Metal frames, however, usually are made with adjustable nose pads, so they fit everyone's bridge. Most manufacturers recognize this difficulty with plastic frames and make their bridges to fit small noses. If any gaps exist between the bridge of the frame and the bridge of the nose, the weight of the lenses will cause the glasses to slide, no matter how well the frame seems to fit before the lenses are made. It is important that the glasses stay in place, because kids tend to look right over the tops of the lenses instead of pushing slipping glasses back up where they belong. Your optician usually is the best judge of whether a frame fits properly.
The Osteopathic Practice • Unsettled colicky babies, flat head syndrome • Growing pains, asthma, glue ear, autism • Sports injuries, stiff back and neck pain
Tom Kelman, BSc (Hons) Ost, DPO Registered Cranial and Paediatric Osteopath
1 Wester Coates Avenue, Edinburgh EH12
5 The Right Side Style Sides that wrap all the way around the back of the ear help keep glasses from sliding down or dropping off a child's face completely. Another option is a strap that goes around the head. 6 Spring Hinges A nice feature to look for is sides with spring hinges. These special hinges allow the sides to flex outward, away from the frames, without causing any damage. Although they sometimes cost a bit more, spring hinges can be a worthwhile investment for children's eyewear. They also come in handy if the child falls asleep with the glasses on or just has a rough day at play. Spring hinges are strongly recommended for toddlers, who sometimes get carried away playing with their new glasses. 7 Lens Material Children's lenses should be made of polycarbonate or a material called Trivex, because these lightweight materials are significantly more impactresistant than other lens materials. In addition to being the safest materials, they also are lighter in weight than regular plastic lenses, a nice advantage for strong prescriptions. Polycarbonate and Trivex have built-in protection against potentially damaging ultraviolet (UV) rays, and the lenses are scratch-resistant coated.
0131 346 0134 Natural relief from pain and discomfort
Kb-Insights: Helping Children To Succeed Kb-Insights offer a range of services aimed at enhancing learning and potential to support children in overcoming barriers to learning. Reading and writing problems, dyslexia, dyspraxia, poor listening and concentration skills, speech and language delay, AD(H)D, poor fine motor skills, low self esteem, auditory processing difficulties, poor social skills. More information about the various interventions available at www.kb-insights.co.uk Email: karen@kb-insights.co.uk or call 07837 930714
8 Sports Eyewear Regular frames do not provide enough protection from large objects such as balls and flying elbows. So if your kid is involved in sports, a proper sports goggle with polycarbonate lenses will provide the best protection against eye injury. 9 Backup Pair Because children can be tough on their eyewear, it's always a good idea to purchase a second, or backup, pair of eyeglasses for them.
Downes Opticians 2 North Junction Street Edinburgh Midlothian EH6 6HN 0131 553 5358 www.downesopticians.com
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NEW YEAR, NEW YOU The New Year is not just about detox-ing our bodies – it can also be a time to detox our lives. In fact, January is a fantastic time for those of us with children in nursery or full time education for the first time to go back to work, start a new venture, set up our own business or to re-train in something that will get us leaping out of bed every morning! There are plenty of websites out there to help you get started and find a new job, re-train, choose the right business, give you ideas, advice you on tax and even help you design your logo, so there’s no excuse not to get stuck in this New Year. Take a look at www.gov.uk/starting-up-a-business, www.workingmums.co.uk, www.mumandcareer.co.uk, www.mumandworking.co.uk and www.mumpreneuruk.com.
So, if you’re looking to go back to work - Is your CV ready? Going back into work, changing jobs or starting a new venture can all be a daunting process. However if you’re already thinking about it then you are half-way there. Change is a good thing when the time is right. As a career coach and professional recruiter, I would say the time could not be better as companies need talent now. In 2015 the job market will be the most buoyant we have known for a number of years. This is down to not only new opportunities as the market grows but also as people put their head above the parapet and move to new companies creating new vacancies (perhaps you’ll be one of them!) This doesn't mean that you can take the 'job of finding a job' lightly. Companies will be vying for the best talent - if they have sustained through the recent hard times then they are unlikely to compromise on new hires now the time has finally come to grow.
Do your CV. This is definitely one job that gets put off and it always seems so much more complicated than it really is. There is no such thing as a perfect CV: there are no absolutes, just best practices. Once you are happy with your CV then putting yourself forward for new roles or registering with a specialist agency seems far less daunting and of course you have to be “in-it-to-win-it” so make this your first goal. Where to start? Think of your career story. When did you start work? Where and what did you do? Write a paragraph describing what you did on a daily basis as you remember it. Then move to your next job and do the same, keep going until you get to the present day. Don’t leave any gaps in your CV - if you have had a career break then write the dates this took place and put “Career break” next to it. Complete it to the present day then look at your paragraphs and start changing them to bullet points. Take a break from it so you can view with fresh eyes and when you go back, look at the bullet points and decide whether you can sell yourself more by going into more detail and also check that you are not using jargon. Once you have your employment history completed, add on sections for Education, IT Knowledge, Interests and at the top a Personal Profile that you can use to match your skills with the job you are looking for. Remember to add your achievements - this is not a time to be modest.
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The simple, but absolutely golden rule is don't forget to put your contact details on your CV - you would be amazed at how many great CV's I have seen over the years but with no idea who it is from or how to contact the person it belongs to! Remember, this is your tool to get an interview and that is where you can give them a far more detailed description of your past experience and work history. Be mindful that you are giving information on your CV that will be of interest to the person reading it and minimise what they won’t be. You now have a master CV! If you are registering with a recruitment company that's all they need as they can always get more information from you directly to add themselves if required. If you are applying directly to a company, then look at the job description and if you have the experience they want, make sure you have it highlighted on your CV, ideally summarising it in your Personal Profile at the top. A good, well-tailored CV will help open doors for you in the growing job market so it should then be onto the interview. But that’s for another article…! Pauline Dickson is the Managing Director of Dickson Lewis, a specialist Accountancy Recruitment Company and the Director for Scotland of the Institute of Recruitment Professionals (IRP). Pauline is also an accredited career coach and most importantly mum to Connor and Charlotte, who love to see their names in this! Dickson Lewis is based at Wemyss House, 45 Frederick Street, Edinburgh. Tel: 0131 225 2000 e-mail pauline@dicksonlewis.com ... also on FB / Twitter and www.dicksonlewis.com
NEW YEAR, NEW YOU Fiona Anderson is an experienced Recruitment professional with qualifications in occupational testing and nearly twenty years' commercial experience working with candidates in sectors including Financial Services, IT, Consultancy, Healthcare, Manufacturing, Educational and Voluntary sectors. Fiona now specialises in interview skills coaching for mums and dads returning to work after a career break, and here she shares some advice about some of those tricky interview questions you may face. Interviews can be daunting, and sometimes they include those those tricky, awkward or confusing interview questions which can make candidates nervous or unsure of how to tackle them. Here are a few examples of these questions which often arise in an interview, and here are my tips on how to approach them: “Tell me of a time you made a mistake/missed a deadline/had an unhappy customer.” Your initial reaction is no doubt to deny you've ever made a mistake, or missed a deadline, or had an unhappy custome, right? Wrong! This is usually not true – we're all human, and everyone makes a mistake in their job at some point, and so on. The important thing to point out to the interviewers is how you noticed your mistake, what you learned from it, and how you ensure you don't make the same mistake again. Remember, the interviewers aren't trying to trip you up with 'negative' questions like these – they just want to see how you've grown and developed in your career.
What development areas have you identified in yourself? Again, we all have weaknesses, but don't go overboard in describing at length all of them! Just pick a thoughtful one which you know you can happily acknowledge, and remember to end your answer positively by talking about how successfully you've been addressing it.
What would you bring to the role? It's best not to turn this into a lengthy speech, but do prepare to talk about a few of your strengths, ensuring you tie them into the vacancy and so showing the interviewers see why your strengths are so relevant. For instance, don't just say “I am a brilliant communicator” - say why you're a brilliant communicator and give examples of communication which are really relevant to the job profile.
“How do you see your career plans for the next 5-10 years?” This is a rather old-fashioned question but can still be asked to test if you've really thought about your long term commitment to this career. If you don't feel comfortable talking about job titles in case it sounds aggressively ambitious, then you can always talk more in terms of the commercial experience and personal development or qualifications you aim to gain over the next few years. And remember, never feel that any of your answers to the above questions sound too cheesy – to stand out, you really need to show enthusiasm, since this could be the crucial element which differentiates you from all other candidates with a similar professional background.
“Tell me why you wish to leave your current job”. Sometimes it's straightforward, for instance, you're about to be made redundant. But sometimes you may have mixed reasons about leaving the current job, but it's best to focus on the positives. Touch lightly on factors such as reorganisation and so on if you wish, but also talk about why you're so interested in this new opportunity, rather than dwelling on what you don't like about your current job. Never be derogatory about any current colleagues or managers, even if this has been a factor influencing your decision to look for a new job – it can sound unprofessional and bitter. Instead, talk about the skills you've acquired, and why they'd be such a good match for this new role.
Fiona now specialises in CV fine-tuning and interview skills coaching, and her one-off individual sessions can be tailored to teach you either general interview skills, or can be tailored to help you prepare for a specific job interview. For more details, see www.anderson.gb.com, or email fiona@anderson.gb.com or call 07900 974421.
We can help you get back to work after a career break. The PCT Partnership’s highly successful course for Women Returning to Work gives you tuition and 1-1 feedback on writing your CV, completing application forms and preparing for job interviews, as well as making sure your IT skills are up to date. The 4 week part time course will also re-introduce you to today's working environment and give you guidance and support in finding a job. Our courses are funded by Skills Development Scotland and are free if you live in Edinburgh and the Lothians and have been away from work for 13 weeks or more. Our next course starts in March 2015.
For information call The PCT Partnership on 0131 622 6240 or email training@thepctpartnership.co.uk
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Out&About
Further details on events listed can be found at www.familiesedinburgh.co.uk/whats-on
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 14 January Magic Carpet The National Museum of Scotland, Chambers Street, Edinburgh, EH1 1JF Suitable for ages 2-4 (+ their adult). Free – sign up on day at Info Desk, Entrance Hall, Level 0, as places are limited. The National Museum of Scotland’s magic carpet introduces little ones to some of the fantastic things in the museum through 20 minutes of stories, songs and activities. Join us as the carpet visits a different gallery or theme every week. Look out for special guests too! 10:30 and 11:30 (25 mins) Every Wednesday in term time.
JANUARY Until 18 January Aladdin Join us for a magical carpet ride as panto legends Allan Stewart, Andy Gray and Grant Stott return to the King’s for another unmissable pantomime adventure at the Kings Theatre! With sensational special effects, this year’s King’s Panto will make all your wishes come true. Prices from £14 www.edtheatres.com/aladdin 7 January Magic Carpet The National Museum of Scotland, Chambers Street, Edinburgh, EH1 1JF Suitable for ages 2-4 (+ their adult). Free – sign up on day at Info Desk, Entrance Hall, Level 0, as places are limited. The National Museum of Scotland’s magic carpet introduces little ones to some of the fantastic things in the museum through 20 minutes of stories, songs and activities. Join us as the carpet visits a different gallery or theme every week. Look out for special guests too! 10:30 and 11:30 (25 mins) Every Wednesday in term time. 8 January Magic Carpet Minis The National Museum of Scotland, Chambers Street, Edinburgh, EH1 1JF Suitable for ages 0-2 (+ their adult). Sign up on the day in the Entrance Hall as places are limited. Join the National Museum of Scotland for magic carpet sessions for really little ones and their adults. Go along for songs, stories, rhymes and objects in the unique museum setting. Thursdays during term time. 10.30 and 11.30 (20mins)
10 & 11 January Panda Storytelling Sessions -
The Story of Chi Chi and the Missing Bamboo
Edinburgh Zoo, 134 Corstorphine Road, Edinburgh, EH12 6TS. Come along and join in with our enchanting panda storytelling sessions. Step in out of the cold and hear the exciting story of Chi Chi, a little panda with a big appetite. 11.45 - 12pm / Free with Zoo Admission charge ©Alicia Bruce
11 January Portrait Detectives The Scottish National Portrait Gallery, 1 Queen Street, Edinburgh, EH2 1JD Collect your kit, follow clues and solve a mystery from history! Supported by the friends of the National Galleries of Scotland. For ages 4 - 12. 14.00 - 16.00
9 January feely fridays The National Museum of Scotland, Chambers Street, Edinburgh, EH1 1JF Fridays during term time. Free, drop-in. Feely Fridays gives you the chance to explore our fascinating handling collections – from meteorites to mammals and Vikings to Victorians! Check out information screens on the day for details. 13:30 – 16:30.
12 - 18 January Teeny Tiny Toddlerfest ‘15 Camera Obscura and World of Illusions, Castle Hill, The Royal Mile, Edinburgh, EH1 2ND Camera Obscura and World of Illusions transforms into a haven for babies, toddlers and their parents this winter. Escape the cold and rain - discover one of Edinburgh’s best loved attractions while all the bigger kids are at school.Make coloured shadows, swim without getting wet, take interesting family photos, and watch your toddlers delight in their mixed up reflections. Tickets at the door or discounts for those pre-booked. 10am 6pm. See website for more information.
The Springboard to confidence for your child Britain’s leading National Active Physical Play Programme for children from 6 months to 7 yrs
pa We rti d es o to o!
Morningside, Joppa, Fairmilehead, Haddington and Marchmont contact Jo – 01875 819966
www.tumbletots.com/Edinburgh 26 FAMILIES EDINBURGH ISSUE 88
15 January Magic Carpet Minis The National Museum of Scotland, Chambers Street, Edinburgh, EH1 1JF Suitable for ages 0-2 (+ their adult). Sign up on the day in the Entrance Hall as places are limited. Join the National Museum of Scotland for magic carpet sessions for really little ones and their adults. Go along for songs, stories, rhymes and objects in the unique museum setting. Thursdays during term time. 10.30 and 11.30 (20mins) 16 January feely fridays The National Museum of Scotland, Chambers Street, Edinburgh, EH1 1JF Fridays during term time. Free, drop-in. Feely Fridays gives you the chance to explore our fascinating handling collections – from meteorites to mammals and Vikings to Victorians! Check out information screens on the day for details. 13:30 – 16:30. 17 - 18 January Big garden Birdwatch The Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh, 20A Inverleith Row, Edinburgh, EH3 5LR Real Life Science Studio, John Hope Gateway, No booking required, All ages, (Free). Are there fewer blackbirds these days? Are blue tits ruling the roost? Every year half a million people take part in the RSPB’s Big Garden Birdwatch to find out. Join the RSPB and contribute to the largest garden bird survey ever! With RSPB Scotland. 12.30 - 3.30pm 17 - 18 January Panda Storytelling Sessions -
The Story of Chi Chi and the Missing Bamboo
Edinburgh Zoo, 134 Corstorphine Road, Edinburgh, EH12 6TS. Come along and join in with our enchanting panda storytelling sessions. Step in out of the cold and hear the exciting story of Chi Chi, a little panda with a big appetite. 11.45 - 12pm / Free with Zoo Admission charge 18 January Bags of Art The Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art, 75 Belford Road, Edinburgh, EH4 3DR Cool and creative fun with artists Tessa Asquith-Lamb and Louise Fraser. Supported by the Friends of the National Galleries of Scotland. Ages 4 -12. 14.00 - 16.00
Out&About
including any contact or further booking information. 18 January Talking Trees The Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh, 20A Inverleith Row, Edinburgh, EH3 5LR John Hope Gateway, No booking required, 5+, (Free). Let the RBGE’s volunteer storytellers grow your imaginations with tall tales from around the world. Have you visited our Little Free Library located beside the Glasshouses or The Dell area located in the John Hope Gateway? 2 - 2.45 pm
21 January Magic Carpet The National Museum of Scotland, Chambers Street, Edinburgh, EH1 1JF Suitable for ages 2-4 (+ their adult). Free – sign up on day at Info Desk, Entrance Hall, Level 0, as places are limited. The National Museum of Scotland’s magic carpet introduces little ones to some of the fantastic things in the museum through 20 minutes of stories, songs and activities. Join us as the carpet visits a different gallery or theme every week. Look out for special guests too! 10:30 and 11:30 (25 mins) Every Wednesday in term time. 22 January Magic Carpet Minis The National Museum of Scotland, Chambers Street, Edinburgh, EH1 1JF Suitable for ages 0-2 (+ their adult). Sign up on the day in the Entrance Hall as places are limited. Join the National Museum of Scotland for magic carpet sessions for really little ones and their adults. Go along for songs, stories, rhymes and objects in the unique museum setting. Thursdays during term time. 10.30 and 11.30 (20mins)
20 January Tiny Tales: Cosy Stories The Scottish Storytelling Centre, 43 - 45 High Street, Edinburgh, EH1 1SR Cosy in with storyteller Claire Hewitt and hear tales from the land of ice and snow and how the Sun was rescued by a brave little Hare. With songs and lullabies to make a sleepy bear even sleepier! Advanced Booking Recommended. For ages 1 - 3. 10am & 11.30am (40mins) / £5 per child
23 January feely fridays The National Museum of Scotland, Chambers Street, Edinburgh, EH1 1JF Fridays during term time. Free, drop-in. Feely Fridays gives you the chance to explore our fascinating handling collections – from meteorites to mammals and Vikings to Victorians! Check out information screens on the day for details. 13:30 – 16:30.
24 January
Children's open day at The red Bus depot 10am - 2pm. Come down to The Red Bus depot at 28 West Harbour Road, Granton, EH5 1PN and climb on board our three red shiny double decker 1962 Routemaster buses! Get a ticket from the bus conductor to go on a round trip, meet the bus driver and get into his cab and behind the steering wheel. Refreshments available from Gary's ice cream and waffle van. Free entry to garage and all the buses. Bus trips £4 per ticket from the bus conductor. 07599912687.
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Out&About 24 - 25 January Macastory: The Twa rabbies The National Museum of Scotland, Chambers Street, Edinburgh, EH1 1JF This fun-filled show has not one but two Rabbie Burns claiming to be the real McCoy! We let the audience decide who is telling the truth as the Rabbies tell outrageous tall tales of their amazing adventures and perform songs and verses from the Bard himself. 12:00, 14:00 & 15:00 24 January Sam & rosie's Highland Adventure: The Mystery of the Lost Haggis! The Scottish Storytelling Centre, 43 - 45 High Street, Edinburgh, EH1 1SR Oh No! Disaster strikes just as the Highland Feast and Ceilidh are about to begin. Grandad's prize winning haggis has gone. Dressed in their finest tartan Sam & Rosie must solve the mystery… for 3 - 6 yrs. 11.15 am & 1pm / £6 (per Child) 24 January Sam & rosie's Tartan Tea Party The Scottish Storytelling Centre, 43 - 45 High Street, Edinburgh, EH1 1SR Join Sam & Rosie as they journey to the North of Scotland for the annual Tartan Tea Party. With lots of well-known Scottish nursery rhymes and songs. Guaranteed fun for little ones. For 0 - 2 years. 10am & 2.15pm / £6 (per Child) 24 - 25 January Panda Storytelling Sessions The Story of Chi Chi and the Missing Bamboo Edinburgh Zoo, 134 Corstorphine Road, Edinburgh, EH12 6TS. Come along and join in with our enchanting panda storytelling sessions. Step in out of the cold and hear the exciting story of Chi Chi, a little panda with a big appetite. 11.45 - 12pm / Free with Zoo Admission charge 25 January Storytelling - Happy Birthday rabbie! The Scottish National Portrait Gallery, 1 Queen Street, Edinburgh, EH2 1JD Come and celebrate Burns Day with Scottish song, story and poetry. Enjoy wee bit of the great Bards work, learn some Scots language and listen to some Scottish traditional tales. For ages 7+. 2pm. 2.45pm & 3.30pm (45 mins)
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Further details on events listed can be found at www.familiesedinburgh.co.uk/whats-on
25 January Winter Wildlife Warmers Holyrood Park Rangers Centre, Queens Drive, Edinburgh, EH8 8HG scottishwildlifetrust.org.uk/things-to-do/activitiesfor-children/edinburgh/ Learn about the little things we can do that make a huge difference to wildlife in Winter. Join us as we make fat ball feasts for birds, discover top tips for hedgehogs, squirrels, slow worms and much more! For ages 5 - 10. Email to book you child's place. 10am - 12pm / £1 per child 28 January Magic Carpet The National Museum of Scotland, Chambers Street, Edinburgh, EH1 1JF Suitable for ages 2-4 (+ their adult). Free – sign up on day at Info Desk, Entrance Hall, Level 0, as places are limited. The National Museum of Scotland’s magic carpet introduces little ones to some of the fantastic things in the museum through 20 minutes of stories, songs and activities. Join us as the carpet visits a different gallery or theme every week. Look out for special guests too! 10:30 and 11:30 (25 mins) Every Wednesday in term time. 29 January Magic Carpet Minis The National Museum of Scotland, Chambers Street, Edinburgh, EH1 1JF Suitable for ages 0-2 (+ their adult). Sign up on the day in the Entrance Hall as places are limited. Join the National Museum of Scotland for magic carpet sessions for really little ones and their adults. Go along for songs, stories, rhymes and objects in the unique museum setting. Thursdays during term time. 10.30 and 11.30 (20mins) 29 January north edinburgh nappuccino in Leith Come along to one of our Nappuccino coffee mornings, an informal, friendly ‘one stop’ event which will meet all of your real nappy needs. Get free advice and information from parents with lots of experience of using real nappies, see different types of nappies and if you’d like, apply for a trial pack or lending kit. You can also buy great value good quality second hand nappies. Any income generated is ploughed back into the Real Nappy Project to continue providing services such as the lending kits. Venue to be confirmed, please see the events page at www.changeworks.org.uk for up-todate information 30 January feely fridays The National Museum of Scotland, Chambers Street, Edinburgh, EH1 1JF Fridays during term time. Free, drop-in. Feely Fridays gives you the chance to explore our fascinating handling collections – from meteorites to mammals and Vikings to Victorians! Check out information screens on the day for details. 13:30 – 16:30.
31 January Shake your Tale! Macrumba & fandango's, Stories & Tangos! The Scottish Storytelling Centre, 43 - 45 High Street, Edinburgh, EH1 1SR Travel around the world in story and dance! Globetrotting dance sensation Carmen Fandango and DiscoBothy storyteller Ruridh MacRumba take you on a storydance adventure to celebrate different countries and cultures. Carmen has the moves, Ruridh has the tales, just bring some comfy gear and they'll have you shaking that tale in no time! Edinburgh based Zumba instructor Frances Bavin and storyteller Fergus McNicol bring you a fully participative, fun-filled family session of story and dance, perfect for parents and kids aged 6-10. 11am (1 hour) / £6 (£4) 31 January & 1 February Panda Storytelling
Sessions - The Story of Chi Chi and the Missing Bamboo
Edinburgh Zoo, 134 Corstorphine Road, Edinburgh, EH12 6TS. Come along and join in with our enchanting panda storytelling sessions. Step in out of the cold and hear the exciting story of Chi Chi, a little panda with a big appetite. 11.45 - 12pm / Free with Zoo Admission charge
Out&About
including any contact or further booking information.
6 February feely fridays The National Museum of Scotland, Chambers Street, Edinburgh, EH1 1JF Fridays during term time. Free, drop-in. Feely Fridays gives you the chance to explore our fascinating handling collections – from meteorites to mammals and Vikings to Victorians! Check out information screens on the day for details. 13:30 – 16:30.
FEBRUARY
©Andy McGregor
1 February Art Maker The Scottish National Gallery, The Mound, Edinburgh, EH2 2EL Join the Art Maker Club and make your own masterpieces with artists Tessa Asquith-Lamb and Louise Fraser. Supported by the Friends of the National Galleries of Scotland. For ages 4 - 12. 14.00 - 16.00 4 February Magic Carpet The National Museum of Scotland, Chambers Street, Edinburgh, EH1 1JF Suitable for ages 2-4 (+ their adult). Free – sign up on day at Info Desk, Entrance Hall, Level 0, as places are limited. The National Museum of Scotland’s magic carpet introduces little ones to some of the fantastic things in the museum through 20 minutes of stories, songs and activities. Join us as the carpet visits a different gallery or theme every week. Look out for special guests too! 10:30 and 11:30 (25 mins) Every Wednesday in term time.
6 February first Steps: A Child’s Coppelia 3.00pm. A introduction to this delightful ballet, specially adapted for children age 3-7. In this hour-long program, a storyteller sets the scene and introduces the music and characters, followed by an excerpted performance featuring the full company of dancers and orchestra. Dance, music, costumes and lots of fun; a perfect introduction to ballet. www.edtheatres.com. Festival Theatre, Edinburgh. 6 February nappuccino Pregnancy and Parent Centre, 10 Lower Gilmore Place, Edinburgh, EH3 9NY Come along to one of our Nappuccino coffee mornings, an informal, friendly ‘one stop’ event which will meet all of your real nappy needs. Get free advice and information from parents with lots of experience of using real nappies, see different types of nappies and if you’d like, apply for a trial pack or lending kit. You can also buy great value good quality second hand nappies. Any income generated is ploughed back into the Real Nappy Project to continue providing services such as the lending kits. 10 - 11.30am
5 February Magic Carpet Minis The National Museum of Scotland, Chambers Street, Edinburgh, EH1 1JF Suitable for ages 0-2 (+ their adult). Sign up on the day in the Entrance Hall as places are limited. Join the National Museum of Scotland for magic carpet sessions for really little ones and their adults. Go along for songs, stories, rhymes and objects in the unique museum setting. Thursdays during term time. 10.30 and 11.30 (20mins) 5 February The Pine Tree, Poggle and Me A funny, sensory dance theatre piece for ages 0-3, with live music, clapping rhythms and bubble popping throughout! Show times 11.30am & 2pm Vince wants to explore the forest but he’s too scared to go on his own. Until one day he meets Poggle, a friendly creature who takes him on an adventure exploring the forest and the magical musical tree. Recommended for ages 0 – 3. Book for this event in person or by calling box office on 0131 665 2240. The Brunton, Ladywell Way, Musselburgh, EH21 6AA
7 February nearly new Sale and real nappy and Sling Information Day Pregnancy and Parent Centre, 10 Lower Gilmore Place, Edinburgh, EH3 9NY The Pregnancy and Parents Centre holds fantastic Nearly New Sales and Information Days. Lots of bargains will be available of maternity and baby clothes, nursery equipment, accessories and all things for little ones up to 3 years old approx. Demonstrations and information on slings and real nappies are also available to see what is right for you plus tea and chat in the cafe area. These are popular events but not as busy as other sales so there is more room to grab a bargain. A local charity supporting all expectant parents and young families, money raised goes towards running the Centre and the sessions they offer. 10am - 1pm / Entry £1 7 - 8 February Panda Storytelling Sessions -
The Story of Chi Chi and the Missing Bamboo
Edinburgh Zoo, 134 Corstorphine Road, Edinburgh, EH12 6TS. Come along and join in with our enchanting panda storytelling sessions. Step in out of the cold and hear the exciting story of Chi Chi, a little panda with a big appetite. 11.45 - 12pm / Free with Zoo Admission charge ©Alicia Bruce
8 February Portrait Detectives The Scottish National Portrait Gallery, 1 Queen Street, Edinburgh, EH2 1JD Collect your kit, follow clues and solve a mystery from history! Supported by the friends of the National Galleries of Scotland. For ages 4 - 12. 14.00 - 16.00 7 - 8 February Drawing from nature The Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh, 20A Inverleith Row, Edinburgh, EH3 5LR Real Life Science Studio, John Hope Gateway, No booking required, All ages, (Free). Design and print greeting cards with a springtime theme with the use of handmade paper and plant-based inks.With Greengage Arts. 1 - 4pm
9 - 10 February edible gardening Seasonal Advice The Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh, 20A Inverleith Row, Edinburgh, EH3 5LR Demonstration Garden, No booking required, All, (Free). Drop in to find out how to grow your own food and take a look around our productive garden with the Edible Gardening Project team. Supported by the players of People’s Postcode Lottery 1 - 3pm
Detectives Royal Portrait February Half Term at The Palace of Holyroodhouse Join us for a week of family fun events on Monday 16 to Sunday 22 February 2015 · Palace Family Room with games, activities & costumes · · Storytelling · Make and take craft · Family Audio Tour · And much more!
For full details of events and dates visit
www.royalcollection.org.uk/whatson
COME BACK FOR FREE! Get your ticket stamped on your first visit and come back as many times as you like at no extra cost! 29 FAMILIES EDINBURGH ISSUE 88
Out&About 10 February Tiny Tales: Snowdrops and Daffodils The Scottish Storytelling Centre, 43 - 45 High Street, Edinburgh, EH1 1SR The first signs of bloom are in the air, with dewy snowdrops in the garden. Join storyteller Tim Porteus for a fun morning of story and song for little ones. Advanced Booking Recommended. For ages 1 - 3. 10am & 11.30am (40mins) / £5 per child 14 - 22 February I'm game The National Museum of Scotland, Chambers Street, Edinburgh, EH1 1JF www.nms.ac.uk/families You’ll never be ‘board’ this half term with our playful family events programme all about games. Try your hand at games through the ages, have fun with crafty characters, complete our power-up challenge trail, learn space invader dance moves and more.
Further details on events listed can be found at www.familiesedinburgh.co.uk/whats-on
14 - 15 February Scottish Beavers The Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh, 20A Inverleith Row, Edinburgh, EH3 5LR Real Life Science Studio, John Hope Gateway, No booking required, All ages, (Free). Come along and find out how the reintroduced beavers are adapting to life in Scotland. Meet the Scottish Beaver Trial education team who will be here with games and activities as well as pelts, skulls and video footage. With the Scottish Beaver Trial 1 - 4pm 14 & 15 February Panda Storytelling Sessions -
The Story of Chi Chi and the Missing Bamboo
Edinburgh Zoo, 134 Corstorphine Road , Edinburgh, EH12 6TS. Come along and join in with our enchanting panda storytelling sessions. Step in out of the cold and hear the exciting story of Chi Chi, a little panda with a big appetite. 11.45 - 12pm / Free with Zoo Admission charge
16 - 22 February royal Portrait Detectives The Palace of Holyroodhouse, Canongate, The Royal Mile, Edinburgh, EH8 8DX www.royalcollection.org.uk/whatson Become a Royal Portrait Detective this February half term. Follow the clues on our family activity trail and investigate the mysteries lurking in the portraits that decorate the Palace’s walls. What secrets will you discover? During your investigation learn how to use secret symbols and create your own mysterious masterpiece in the Palace Family Room available everyday from 11:00 – 15:00. On Monday 16, Wednesday 18 & Friday 20 February listen as the portraits come to life through imaginative tales of past royal residents with an expert storyteller. The Palace of Holyroodhouse offers a great day out for families! 11am - 3pm / See website for more information.
©Lisa Fleming
14 February Sir Scallywag and The golden underpants Assembly Rooms, 54 George Street, Edinburgh, EH2 2LR Join the world-renowned Scottish Chamber Orchestra and CBeebies presenter Chris Jarvis for a laugh-outloud musical adventure at Edinburgh’s Assembly Rooms! Based on the book by Giles Andreae, Sir Scallway and the Golden Underpants is the new children’s concert by composer Paul Rissman. Suitable for children age 3+ www.thequeenshall.net 12pm and 2pm (two performances) / Children £5 Adults £12 Family (2 adults, 2 children) £28
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15 February Bags of Art The Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art, 75 Belford Road, Edinburgh, EH4 3DR Cool and creative fun with artists Tessa Asquith-Lamb and Louise Fraser. Supported by the Friends of the National Galleries of Scotland. Ages 4 -12. 14.00 16.00 15 February Talking Trees The Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh, 20A Inverleith Row, Edinburgh, EH3 5LR John Hope Gateway, No booking required, 5+, (Free). Let the RBGE’s volunteer storytellers grow your imaginations with tall tales from around the world.Have you visited our Little Free Library located beside the Glasshouses or The Dell area located in the John Hope Gateway? 2 - 2.45pm
©Andy Saunders
20 February T-his/T-hat The Scottish Storytelling Centre, 43 - 45 High Street, Edinburgh, EH1 1SR T-his/T-hat is an interactive dance performance, in which children are invited to play a very important role. This fun afternoon is introduced with a story about two girls who have lost something during a journey, before leading into a creative workshop where the children join in to help tell the story. The performance looks at the difficulty in making choices and the possibility of failure, but also introduces Italian language and lets you explore and learn some basic words such as letters, numbers, colours and foods. For 2 - 7 years. 2pm (45 mins) / £5
Out&About
including any contact or further booking information.
21 February
The enchanted forest Adventure The Scottish Storytelling Centre, 43 - 45 High Street, Edinburgh, EH1 1SR Adventure teller Brooke Laing performs and delights in an interactive action-packed adventure through an enchanted forest where a miserable witch has been up to mischief. Can we save Bottom and his fairy-tale friends from the witch’s spells before Big Ben chimes midnight, or will we be trapped in the enchanted forest forever? For 3 - 6 yrs. 10.30 am (45 mins) / £6 per child 21 & 22 February Panda Storytelling Sessions The Story of Chi Chi and the Missing Bamboo Edinburgh Zoo, 134 Corstorphine Road , Edinburgh, EH12 6TS. Come along and join in with our enchanting panda storytelling sessions. Step in out of the cold and hear the exciting story of Chi Chi, a little panda with a big appetite. 11.45 - 12pm / Free with Zoo Admission charge 22 February great Auks have gone but Beavers are back! Holyrood Park Rangers Centre, Queens Drive, Edinburgh, EH8 8HG scottishwildlifetrust.org.uk/things-to-do/activities-for-children/edinburgh/ Find out all about the creatures that used to call the British Isles home. Our ancestors lived alongside wolves, lynx and pelicans! Why did they go and will they return? Which species are close to disappearing and how can we help them to stay? Learn more about the exciting projects to bring wildlife back to Britain. For ages 5 - 10. Email to book you child's place. 10am - 12pm / £1 per child 22 February Storytelling -
from ballads to lullabies
The Scottish National Portrait Gallery, 1 Queen Street, Edinburgh, EH2 1JD Join storyteller Claire McNicol as she brings alive music and stories connected to portraits in the gallery, from the Maid o'Norraway to the Fisher Lassies of Newhaven. For ages 7+. 2pm & 3pm (45 mins)
©Andy McGregor
25 February Magic Carpet The National Museum of Scotland, Chambers Street, Edinburgh, EH1 1JF Suitable for ages 2-4 (+ their adult). Free – sign up on day at Info Desk, Entrance Hall, Level 0, as places are limited. The National Museum of Scotland’s magic carpet introduces little ones to some of the fantastic things in the museum through 20 minutes of stories, songs and activities. Join us as the carpet visits a different gallery or theme every week. Look out for special guests too! 10:30 and 11:30 (25 mins) Every Wednesday in term time. 26 February Magic Carpet Minis The National Museum of Scotland, Chambers Street, Edinburgh, EH1 1JF Suitable for ages 0-2 (+ their adult). Sign up on the day in the Entrance Hall as places are limited. Join the National Museum of Scotland for magic carpet sessions for really little ones and their adults. Go along for songs, stories, rhymes and objects in the unique museum setting. Thursdays during term time. 10.30 and 11.30 (20mins) 26 February north edinburgh nappuccino in Leith Come along to one of our Nappuccino coffee mornings, an informal, friendly ‘one stop’ event which will meet all of your real nappy needs. Get free advice and information from parents with lots of experience of using real nappies, see different types of nappies and if you’d like, apply for a trial pack or lending kit. You can also buy great value good quality second hand nappies. Any income generated is ploughed back into the Real Nappy Project to continue providing services such as the lending kits. Venue to be confirmed, please see the events page at www.changeworks.org.uk for up-to-date information 27 February feely fridays The National Museum of Scotland, Chambers Street, Edinburgh, EH1 1JF Fridays during term time. Free, drop-in. Feely Fridays gives you the chance to explore our fascinating handling collections – from meteorites to mammals and Vikings to Victorians! Check out information screens on the day for details. 13:30 – 16:30.
31 FAMILIES EDINBURGH ISSUE 88
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