Families Central Scotland Magazine March-April 2020

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IN THIS ISSUE Early Years Special Easter Holiday Fun One Child Goes Free Voucher for Blair Drummond!

for under 5s SCOTLAND Best da y out for Under 5s

COTLAND Book your session, party or special Sevent at:

w w w. k i d z t o w n rol e p l a y. co m www.kidztownroleplay.com

Book your session, party or special event at:

Issue 57 March/April 2020 familiesonline.co.uk

Falkirk’s newurs! fantastic flavo Now serving fresh homemade soup, Scottish stovies and innovative ice cream flavours every day from 10am until 5pm.

Glen Farm Glen Village Falkirk FK1 3AA Tel. 01324 630703 www.themilkbarn.co.uk

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www.littlestarsnurseries.net

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LIMITED SPACES AVAILABLE

FREE COUNCIL FUNDED CHILDCARE 2.5 days free childcare per week

Open 51 weeks of the year

Schedule your free hours to suit your family

Open 7:30am - 6pm

Available for all children age 3+

20 acres of parkland

STIRLING - Craigforth House, c/o Prudential, Craigforth, Stirling, FK9 4UE | 01786 445552 We have nurseries in Alloa, Falkirk, Glasgow and Hillington.

Easter Holiday Activities 2020

A packed programme for all ages To book call us on 01324 506850 www.falkirkcommunitytrust.org 2

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FACEBOOK: /FamCS TWITTER: @FamiliesCentral

editor@familiescentralscotland.co.uk Design: 45 Degrees Design & Print Printers: J Thomson Colour Printers Cover Image: YMN

Circulation: 12,000 copies distributed directly to schools, nurseries, playgroups, health centres, libraries and leisure facilities, as well as selected tourist attractions, cafes, clubs, classes and shops throughout Stirling, Falkirk, Clackmannanshire and West Lothian, and also available to read online via www.familiescentralscotland.co.uk Please contact us if you wish to receive our media pack in relation to advertising. Bookings are now being taken for the May/June 2020 issue with features on Fostering, Summer Camps, Travel and Health. The deadline for all advertising & editorial submissions is 3rd April 2020.

Families Central Scotland is part of Families Print Ltd, a franchise company.

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

News & Competitions Parent to Parent 1140 Hours… What does it mean?

Focus on… The Early Years How to get a good night’s sleep Local Ideas for the Easter Holidays Out and About

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...to our lucky January/February prize winners, who will be receiving MadeGood snacks, tickets to the musical ‘Annie’ in Stirling and a complete set of Ross Welford’s children’s books!

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Advertising & Enquiries:

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Winners will be announced in the May/June issue of Families Central Scotland.

Photo Credit: Bigstock

Editor: Fiona Bunting

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ISSUE 57: MARCH / APRIL 2020

Offering 1140 funded hours for eligible 3 & 4 year olds from August 2019

Competition Terms and Conditions: 1. Competitions are open to residents of the UK, aged 18 years or over. 2. Only one entry per household will be accepted. 3. No responsibility is accepted for ineligible or fraudulent entries. 4. Entries must be received by the closing date and proof of sending cannot be taken as proof of receipt. 5. One correct entry and winner (or as stipulated per competition) will be selected and notified by email as soon as reasonably practicable after the closing date of the competition unless otherwise advised. 6. All decisions of Families Central Scotland are final and no correspondence will be entered into. 7. If a winner does not confirm acceptance of a prize within 7 days from notification, he/she automatically foregoes the right to claim the prize. 8. No prize is exchangeable for any other prize.The prize is not transferable. 9. All competitions hosted by Families Central Scotland will close at midnight on the closing date stated. Any entries after this time and date will be void. 10. Automated/bulk entries and entries from third parties will be disqualified. 11. Families Central Scotland is not liable for any delay or failure by the prize provider to deliver any prize or for the quality of the prize or for any loss or damage arising in connection with the prize or competition. 12.The winner agrees to have his/her name publicised in the Families Central Scotland magazine, including the digital publication. 13.The winner agrees to have his/her name, address and email address passed on to the prize provider for the purposes of obtaining their prize. 14. By entering the competition, entrants will be deemed to have accepted and agreed to these terms and conditions. 15.The competition is free to enter and no purchase is necessary.

Offering 1140 funded hours for eligible 3 & 4 year olds from August 2019 Offering 1140 funded hours for eligible 3 & 4 year olds from August 2019

Arnhall Nursery is a private day nursery that provides high quality childcare from 3ismonths to school Arnhall Nursery a private day age. nursery that provides highGood quality • Graded Excellent and Very by the Care Inspectorate childcare from 3 months to school age.

• in beautiful surroundings nearby the • Set Graded Excellent and Very Good Dunblane with ample parking Care Inspectorate • to daily Forest Schoolsnear • Access Set in beautiful surroundings • Open all year round from 7.30am to Dunblane with ample parking • 6.30pm Access to daily Forest Schools • meals - home • All Open all included year round fromcooked 7.30ambytoour in-house chef 6.30pm • qualifed & trained • Fully All meals included - homestaff cooked by our in-house chef For further details or to arrange a visit • Fully qualifed & trained staffplease contact the Nursery direct

o Kids g free!*

Visit the Bo’ness & Kinneil Railway Travel on our steam railway and enjoy Scotland’s largest railway museum.

Open 4 April - 31 October www.bkrailway.co.uk

Registered charity SC002375

Union Street, Bo’ness. EH51 9AQ

*one child free with a paying adult with this ad.Valid for one transaction only, any day until end May 2020 (except 16 & 17 May) ref famCent

on 01786 822 391 Keirplease Estate, Dunblane FK15 9NU contact the Nursery direct www.arnhallnursery.co.uk on 01786 822 391

For further details or to arrange a visit

Keir Estate, Dunblane FK15 9NU www.arnhallnursery.co.uk

all Nursery is a private day familiesonline.co.uk

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News & Views Competitions

Animals in the Sky “Every night, when the sky is clear, it’s filled with twinkling stars. But did you know that it’s full of pictures too? If you draw lines between some of the brightest stars you can find animals...”

Hippodrome Silent Film Festival In 2020, the Hippodrome Silent Film Festival (aka HippFest) will celebrate 10 years of presenting great silent films with great live music. The Festival runs from 18-22 March at the Hippodrome Cinema in Bo’ness and other venues across the town and kicks off with a massive ‘Custard Pie Fight’ on Tuesday 17 March at Kinneil House - all welcome.

The programme includes our traditional Saturday morning ‘Jeely Jar’ double-bill (Behind the Screen & Sherlock Jr.) full of non-stop gags and impressive stunts in the company of two comedy greats: Charlie Chaplin and Buster Keaton offering 2-for-1 entry if you bring a clean jam jar and lid; and our hugely popular Laurel and Hardy triple bill on Sunday 22 March featuring the recently rediscovered Duck Soup, comedy classic Two Tars and our audience pick Liberty.

Full details of our 2020 HippFest programme of silent films, workshops, talks, and walks around Bo’ness are available on the website hippfest.co.uk.

Digital Family Pledge Celebrity Mum and former Spice Girl Emma Bunton has joined forces with Vodafone to launch the Digital Family Pledge – a free online tool that allows families to create digital ‘house rules’ together in a fun and easy way.

Emma, partner Jade and their kids Beau and Tate are the first family to use the new tool, designed to bring parents up to speed on key digital topics and prompt family conversations about online behaviour. It was launched after new YouGov research revealed millions of parents have never been given advice on the topic and over half are unaware of what their kids are doing online.

The Digital Family Pledge offers parents an easy way to get up to speed on four important topics: screen time, online bullying, social media, and gaming. Using a series of quiz like questions, it then prompts families to discuss what they’re doing online. Once all the sections of the pledge have been completed, each family member promises to make a positive change to their behaviour. The tool then generates a bespoke set of family guidelines that can be downloaded, shared or printed out and stuck on the fridge.

Following the success of her highly praised and beautifully illustrated ‘Seeing Stars: A Complete Guide to the 88 Constellations’, author and illustrator Sara Gillingham returns to the cosmos with Animals in the Sky, an interactive and introductory guide to famous stars for younger stargazers aged 2-4.

Bringing together two of kids’ favourite interests, animals and the night sky, Animals in the Sky invites readers to guess each animal through a series of read-aloud clues. Get to know six of the most recognisable constellations: The Big Bear, The Southern Fish, The Big Dog, The Lion, The Eagle, and The Wolf.

Animals in the Sky is perfect for bedtime stargazing and a terrific conversation starter for inquisitive sky watchers about what we see when we look up at night.

Animals in the Sky by Sara Gillingham is published by Phaidon on 6 March, £8.95 (phaidon.com)

WIN To enter the prize draw for a free copy of Animals in the Sky, simply email your name and address to editor@familiescentralscotland.co.uk

by Tuesday 31st March 2020, with ‘Stars’ in the subject box. Terms and conditions can be found on page 3.

Vodafone has teamed up with the BuntonJones family to road test the pledge with Emma, partner Jade Jones, and two children Beau, 12 and Tate, eight. Vodafone Digital Parenting ambassador Emma Bunton said: “Doing the Digital Family Pledge was a really simple way of getting up to speed on the latest facts, sparking a conversation and agreeing some boundaries together - Jade and I included! The kids are at that age where they want to play with new apps and games and are getting more interested in social media. At the end of the day, it’s about being open and finding the right balance and the Pledge is a great way to help families do this.”

The Digital Family Pledge is available now at vodafone.co.uk/familypledge

ONE CHILD GOES FREE VOUCHER

This voucher is valid until Sunday 1st November 2020 and admits one free child per vehicle.

This voucher cannot be used in conjunction with any other voucher, offer or promotion.

Not valid with corporate tickets or seasonal memberships. This voucher must be presented on arrival at the Safari Park.

Online version and photocopies are not accepted.

Families Central Scotland

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News & News Competitions & Views

Disney On Ice presents

Magical Ice Festival ‘Disney On Ice presents Magical Ice Festival’ is the brand new show coming to Glasgow this April, highlighting the stories of Disney’s most beloved heroines with energetic choreography that will have audiences singing, dancing and cheering for their favourite Disney characters as they embark on their own epic journeys.

Disney tales both old and new including Moana, The Little Mermaid, Tangled, Beauty and the Beast and Frozen will be skating into the UK from the 26th March to the 3rd May 2020. The production will be visiting Glasgow at the SSE Hydro from 16th – 19th April.

Tickets are available from disneyonice.co.uk

WIN Win a family ticket for four people to Disney on Ice presents Magical Ice Festival at a Glasgow performance of your choice, subject to availability. To enter the prize draw, simply email your name and address to editor@ familiescentralscotland.co.uk by 20th March 2020, with “Disney” in the subject box. Terms and conditions can be found on page 3.

WIN! To celebrate our NEW weekday term time stay’n’play sessions, where you pay once and stay all day, Kidz Town are giving away two play’n’dine passes… so your kids can spend the day playing and enjoy a delicious lunch too! kidztownroleplay.com

Just tell us, according to the article on page 13, who delivers a treat to every child at Kidz Town’s Easter breakfast and tea events?

2020: THE YEAR OF SLEEP 2020 is set to be the ‘Year of Sleep’ as the third of a life we spend in bed takes a higher profile than ever before. With more and more wellbeing and mental health organisations focusing on the importance of a good night’s rest, even Tatler has called sleep ‘the new status symbol’. Already lined up for the year is the presentation of a Sleep Manifesto to an all-party House of Commons group on March 4. And, importantly, the Mental Health Foundation announced at the end of 2019 that the theme for Mental Health Awareness Week in May will be the connection between sleep - or lack of it - and mental health.

Said Lisa Artis, chief advisor for The Sleep Council: “There is clear and gathering momentum to have sleep pushed up the public health agenda and finally recognised as being as important to good health as diet and exercise […]

“Everyone is aware of public health messages around exercise and eating with the ‘Five a Day’ mantra well established. What we want to see is the same public awareness around the need to ‘Sleep for Seven’.”

For more information, visit sleepcouncil.org.uk familiesonline.co.uk

To enter, simply email your answer, name and address to editor@familiescentralscotland.co.uk by Tuesday 31st March 2020, with ‘Play all day’ in the subject box.

Terms and conditions can be found on page 3.

NEW Classes at Braeport Centre, Dunblane 9.30am-10am (2yrs-3.5yrs) 10am-10.45am (3.5yrs-5yrs - preschool) We also do Birthday Parties for children aged 4-9yrs Enquire for further details

Karen Forrester - 0781 791 5094

JumparoundStirling@yahoo.com or via

@Jumparoundstirling

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Early Years Special

Parent to Parent We’re so pleased to have Rugbytots’ David Grainey with us for our Early Years issue.

He talks to us about family life, the benefits of Rugbytots and top days out.

Hi, I’m David Grainey and the new owner of the Rugbytots Franchise for Stirling and Clackmannanshire. I have three beautiful daughters; Isabella aged 9, Rosie aged 2, and Penny aged 10 months. I run the Franchise along with my Fiancée, business partner and mother of my youngest two, Aileen Stewart. We stay in Cowie, Stirling. We’ve been running the Franchise for the last six months and look forward to growing the brand and classes throughout the area over the years to come. You can contact us on 0345 313 0424 or david.grainey@rugbytots.co.uk

Can you tell us a bit more about Rugbytots?

Rugbytots is an educational play programme teaching children everything from colours, shapes and numbers to hand-eye coordination, balance, sharing, discipline and listening. Our motto is to make it more fun. We do this through structured play sessions, engaging children’s imaginations and playful natures to help develop key skills such as pass, catch, kick, run with the ball and play in a team. We currently run our classes in a number of different venues; Cambusbarron Community Centre, Lornshill Academy (Alloa), Dunblane, Bannockburn, Bridge of Allan, Gartmore. We also run sessions for nurseries and schools.

Why do wee ones love Rugbytots so much?

According to feedback, it’s because the sessions are so much fun. We are able to interact with the kids and parents and make the classes engaging for everyone. We play and create games that interest them and their imaginations run wild. Our coaches are great at not taking themselves too seriously and making sure everyone feels welcome and safe. The children don’t always realise it but they are learning through play. They also make new friends and build confidence.

Why do you like living where you do?

We live in a quiet corner of Cowie, close to nursery and schools and within a 15-20 minute drive of both sets of Grandparents. Also, as my eldest daughter stays in nearby Fallin, it is very handy. We feel that Cowie is well placed to allow us links across the Central belt for classes and bigger cities. Cowie benefits from play parks and a skate park, along with good areas for long walks/runs.

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Families Central Scotland

Favourite shop?

I’m going to let Aileen answer this as she does the shopping! Aldi (we have shopped in the big three and found that it is more affordable. Also, over the years, the quality of goods has improved) and Primark (due to having young children who grow out of clothes and have a habit of making a mess, we find they are affordable and allow us to replace items more regularly than some of the bigger branded shops).

Favourite park?

King’s Park, Stirling. Lots of space and fields to play in – and a great park for all ages. We have used the tennis courts in the summer and run taster sessions from the playing fields. It is also a great day out when the ice cream truck is on site and the sun is out.

As well as Rugbytots, any top kids’ clubs & classes?

Best children’s DVD, TV show or app?

Disney, Mr Tumble, Mickey Mouse Clubhouse

Funniest thing your children have ever done?

We are very lucky and have great kids who crack us up all the time. They play off each other to be hilarious and we wouldn’t have it any other way!

Favourite family holiday spot?

We haven’t really had a family holiday in general due to circumstances and business, though managed a weekend or two in a caravan over the last year.

A holiday is definitely on the cards and something we would love to do. We all want to go to Disneyland and aim to take the kids away as soon as we can save up.

Most loved children’s book?

We took our little ones to Baby Sensory and found this to be a great introduction to classes and child development. Other than that, we have Rosie (2) at Rugbytots and feel that she greatly benefits from the classes. Can’t go wrong with Rugbytots!

Isabella enjoys Amelia Jane books, Rosie’s favourite is ‘WOW! Said the Owl’ and Penny enjoys any that make a noise! I enjoyed all the Harry Potter books but Hobbit, Lord of the Rings and David Gemmell novels are my favourites.

Top day out with kids?

No parent should be without…

Isabella loves the cinema, bowling or swimming. The two youngest are happy at a park or soft play, though we always look forward to our annual trip to Blair Drummond Safari Park and also Wellsfield Farm in Denny. Also, as we have to travel into Aberfoyle, Callander and surrounding areas to promote the business, sometimes a family day out in the car driving around the Trossachs is a great day out too.

Favourite night out without kids?

Night out without kids? What’s that?

For us, we do enjoy a cinema trip and a meal. However, we also enjoy going to the rugby matches if and when we can.

Nappy bags and wet wipes. Do not be caught short!

Most played with toys: Teddy. It has to go everywhere. Rosie cannot be without! Penny has her blanket. They all enjoy playing with the play kitchen set and colouring in.

Best advice you’ve ever received?

In Business – always reinvest. Build your business by reinvesting.

In Life – spend time with family; they will make you happiest.

Early Years Special

1140 Hours… What does it mean?

A nationwide public information campaign is encouraging families to enrol their children for funded early learning and childcare ahead of a major expansion this summer. Backed by an unprecedented £2 billion investment, the increase in funded hours to 1140 makes it the most generous offer in the U.K. and has required significant recruitment and infrastructure - more than 270 nurseries have been built, extended or refurbished since March 2018 and an additional 4,300 full time equivalent staff are already in post.

“I started using the early learning and childcare entitlement in its entirety following the October holidays, when Mayson was 3 years old. I had been offered a new job that offered more hours than my previous role and I was able to take it on because the increased entitlement allowed me to put Mayson into nursery for the hours I was working.”

Due to the phasing in of the increased entitlement, almost 50,000 children are already benefiting from more than the current 600 hours they are entitled to, allowing parents and carers to explore work, education and training opportunities.

“When he first started nursery, he wasn’t the most sociable, often choosing to play by himself. His speech wasn’t great either and he struggled to complete full sentences. Fast forward a couple of months, his development has been amazing. I’m able to have full conversations with him and learn what he’s done at nursery each day. He’s come on leaps and bounds. Mayson loves going to nursery. He totally thrives in the environment.”

Nicole Shearer, from the Shetland Isles is mother to Jack (nine years old) and Mayson (three years old). Before she took part in a pilot initiative at Cunningsburgh Nursery to access 1140 hours of funded early learning and childcare, mum Nicole was struggling to find the time to work or study for her degree. Her son Mayson is now able to attend nursery for 28 hours a week, up from 10 hours a week, which gives Nicole time to take on a new job that offers more hours and benefits: and allows her to spend more time focusing on her degree.

Nicole has also noticed a big difference in Mayson’s social skills during his fulltime attendance at nursery.

helped to boost their confidence and communication skills and given them access to more opportunities such as outdoor learning.

“I’ve also heard how it has made an enormous difference to families – relieving pressure and enabling mums and dads to get back into, or spend more time, studying, working or training.

“I would encourage all parents with eligible children to get in touch with their local authority to identify the funded option that is best for their child from the great choices available and find out when to apply.

“There is no cost to families who take up this offer so the 1,140 hours can save each family as much as £4,500, and we hope that this campaign will let as many families as possible know what they are entitled to.”

See: https://www.parentclub.scot/ articles/whats-your-child-entitled

Children’s Minister Maree Todd said: “If you’ve got a child who will be two, three or four, now is the time to see what they could receive from this August.

“Tens of thousands of children are already benefiting from high-quality ELC, and I’ve heard first-hand how it’s

All funded providers will be required to meet strict quality criteria as part of the new National Standard, including achieving good or better Care Inspectorate quality evaluations, and will also be required to carry out continuous professional development.

1140 Hours: TOP 5 Q&As What are the top five questions from parents about the new 1140 hours of free childcare? We asked the owner of Little Stars Group, Kevin Gilmartin, who has been in the childcare sector for over 21 years and has nurseries in Alloa, Falkirk, Stirling, Govan and Hillington.

Q) Who is entitled to 1140 hours free childcare per annum?

A) From August 2020, all 3 & 4 year olds, and around a quarter of 2 year olds (check with your local Council for full details).

familiesonline.co.uk

Q ) Can the free hours be split over two nurseries?

A). Yes: you can use them all at one nursery or split between two. You can even choose a childminder if they are in partnership.

Q ) How many free hours per week does the 1140 hours equate to?

A ) 30 hours per week term time or 22 hours per week if you spread it throughout the year.

Q) Can you forward free hours that you haven’t used in a week to the following week?

A) No. Q) How do I apply?

A) If your child is already at a nursery, talk to them. If not, contact your local Council Early Years Officer.

Little Stars Nurseries have been providing childcare and early education for children from birth to age five for more than two decades.

They are committed to providing the best possible experiences for both children and families. littlestarsnurseries.net 01786 445 552 7

Early Years Special

Volunteer Margaret, Walker Sarah-Jane, and Volunteer Kay

Jump Around Pre-School Classes Come along and join us in our brand new fun-filled preschool classes, taking place at Braeport Centre, Dunblane on Thursday mornings. There will be two classes available, with both looking to build children’s physical wellbeing, increase their confidence, and develop key core areas. The classes will be delivered in a fun and energetic manner, using a wide range of child-friendly equipment such as balls, fluff balls, quoits, hoops and more!

Why try buggy walks?

Parents have said: ‘I feel so much better after the fresh air and adult conversation.’

Where: Braeport Centre, Dunblane When: Thursdays in term time Time: 9.30 - 10am- Age Group: 2-3.5 years

(one to one ratio group)

10 - 10.45 am - Age Group: 3.5 - 5 Years

‘I’m new to the area, and it’s been great to find out where to walk.’

First class FREE, with block booking thereafter.

Please contact Karen @ Jump Around via Email:JumparoundStirling@yahoo.com or via Jump Around Stirling Facebook Page or mobile: 0781 791 5094

Volunteer Kay sums it all up: ‘It can be a struggle as a first-time mum. I enjoy leading walks to help bring mums together to support each other and make lifelong friendships. It’s lovely to see their babies grow and develop, and of course we all get some exercise’

Weekly walks are FREE, run throughout Stirling and led by qualified walk leaders. Walks finish at a venue where you can stop for a cuppa.

No need to pre book, just come along.

What do parents think of…

Music Bugs Stirling?

For more information on the walks or to find out about volunteering, e-mail darleyr@activestirling.org.uk join facebook.com/groups/buggywalkingstirling or visit www.activestirling.org.uk/buggywalks/

“These classes are absolutely fab for babies and toddlers, I would highly recommend” (Dec 2019) “If you’re looking to take your baby to a class full of musical fun, bond with your baby, meet other mums and be made to feel very welcome then Music Bugs is the class for you!”

(Aug 2019)

When and where?

Monday mornings – The Dunblane Centre Tuesday mornings – McLaren Centre, Callander; and The Dance Connection, Stirling Wednesday mornings – Viewfield Church Hall, Stirling Wednesday afternoons – St. Ninians Old Parish Church Hall* Friday mornings – The Dumyat Centre, Menstrie *This is a new afternoon Family Bugs class, running on a Wednesday at 2.15pm and suitable for all ages, newborn to 5 years.

For more information about the classes or to book in, visit musicbugs.co.uk or check out their Facebook page @MusicBugsStirling 8

Families Central Scotland

April Rhyming Rabbit Collect your trail map from the Café at Muiravonside Country Park and follow the clues left by the Easter bunny!

Find all the animals that hop and jump, complete all of the challenges and then collect your prize from the café.

1 – 19 April Muiravonside Country Park 10am – 3pm • £1 per person

Early Years Special

First for first aid… Arnhall Nursery hits the mark!

Looking for an inclusive class that allows your toddler the freedom to explore their senses? Look no further than Sensory Tots Stirling, an exciting new group bringing a sensory experience to toddlers aged 1-3 years in Stirling.

The Sensory Tots team is made up of Jennifer and Laura who met four years ago after their sons both received kidney transplants. Jennifer is a Registered Nurse who started Sensory Tots due to her passion for sensory play and the benefits it brings to all children. She says: “I have two sons, 11 year old Finlay and 14-month old Harrison. My husband and I live in Stirling with our sons and cat, Ralphy. Our eldest son has a rare genetic condition which means serious health problems, autism and developmental delays. He is the inspiration behind Sensory Tots. Helping Finlay develop has meant a lot of sensory learning on my part; taking part in courses and even converting our garage into a sensory room

Arnhall Nursery in Dunblane is celebrating being awarded Millie’s Mark, the gold standard for excellence in paediatric first aid in the early years. Its sister nursery, Pear Tree Meadowpark in Haddington, was the first in Scotland to achieve the award since its Scottish launch last year, and now Arnhall Nursery is delighted to join them - and to be the first in Stirlingshire to have gained the special endorsement.

Millie’s Mark, developed between Millie’s Trust and National Day Nurseries Association (NDNA), aims to keep children as safe as they can be in nursery, with staff training, policies and procedures in first aid well above national standards.

To achieve the accreditation, 100% of staff working with children in the nursery, pre-school or childminder setting must be trained and confident in paediatric first aid. They are also required to keep their knowledge fresh so they are ready and capable in any type of emergency situation where first aid is required.

Millie’s Trust was originally set up in England by Dan and Joanne Thompson following the tragic death of their young daughter Millie who choked on food while at nursery in 2012. They said:

“I have loved seeing the effects sensory play has had on developing his gross and fine motor skills, social skills, concentration, confidence, communication and understanding of language. I am so excited to see what effect it will have on your child too”.

“We are delighted to know that parents in Scotland can now turn to Millie’s Mark to find a nursery that goes above and beyond the requirements of paediatric first aid regulations in Scotland to ensure that their children are in the care of well trained and confident staff”.

Laura is a former midwife and a mum of four amazing grown up children. She is an SLA (Support for Learning Assistant) at an Autism provision and has years of experience in nursery settings. Her experience with sensory play is invaluable to the classes, together with her passion for nature and messy play.

For more information, please visit www.milliesmark.com

From under the sea adventures to exploring outer space, every week will be a different sensory experience. Sensory Tots run 60-minute classes for up to 12 children; held at St Ninians Old Parish Church, Kirk Wynd, St Ninians, Stirling, FK7 9AY; £8.00 per session; for info and booking, please visit their Facebook page @sensorytotsstirling

Psychology Kindergarten at the University of Stirling

OPEN MORNING - Saturday 2nd May 2020 NOW offering up to 30 hours of free childcare for 37.6 weeks per year with funding entitlement. Call today to discuss your requirements: 01786 467662 or email psychologykindergarten@stir.ac.uk

• • •

Graded ‘excellent’ Children’s voices at the centre Exploratory play, emotional wellbeing and outdoor learning

Available to children aged 2 years 9 months to 5 years; funded and unfunded spaces available; open from 8.55 am to 3.30 pm Psychology Kindergarten, University of Stirling –Cottrell Building FK9 4LA

https://www.stir.ac.uk/about/faculties-and-services/natural-sciences/business/psychology-kindergarten/

familiesonline.co.uk

Arnhall Nursery is a private day nursery, providing high quality childcare from three months to school age.

From August 2020, all three and four year olds will be entitled to 1140 funded hours. Applications are now open to secure your child’s funded space – please see www.arnhallnursery.co.uk or call 01786 822 391 for further details or to arrange a visit.

Having fewer toys may be better A new study suggests that children who have too many toys are more easily distracted, and do not enjoy quality playtime.

Researchers at the University of Toledo in Ohio, US, recruited 36 toddlers and invited them to play in a room for half an hour, with either four toys, or sixteen toys.

They found that youngsters were far more creative when they had fewer toys to play with. They also played with each for twice as long, thinking up more uses for each toy and lengthening and expanding their games.

The authors of the study concluded that parents, schools and nurseries should pack away most of their toys and just rotate a small number regularly, to encourage children to become more creative and improve their attention spans.

More info: www.sciencedirect.com 9

Better Sleep

How to get a good night’s sleep We spend a third of our lives doing it. It’s vital to our health and wellbeing. And yet we don’t always pay enough attention to why we need it! The answer, of course, is sleep.

“People go to huge amounts of time and expense to eat well and exercise regularly but without a good night’s sleep, all that effort will be in vain. Sleep doesn’t just make us feel better, it can improve our health by decreasing the risk of heart attacks, diabetes and strokes - and it helps us fight off minor ailments, deal better with depression and even tackle weight problems,” said Lisa Artis of The Sleep Council.

And it’s not just adults who need to become more ‘sleep aware’, so do children and teenagers.

“While it’s extremely important for parents to know how much sleep their child needs, we also need to teach youngsters about good sleep behaviour – and from an early age too,” said Lisa. “If a child isn’t getting enough sleep, then the parents probably aren’t either - causing increasing stress among the whole family.”

A decent night’s sleep will help children to do better at school, allow them to react more quickly to situations, have a more developed memory, learn more effectively and solve problems.

Plus, it will make them less susceptible to colds and other minor ailments, less irritable and better behaved. Sleep deprivation causes increased hyperactivity and other behavioural problems, as well as damaging physical and mental development. Poor sleep habits from an early age can lead to long term sleep problems.

Added Lisa: “An increasing body of evidence shows the damaging effect on children and teenagers who get less sleep than they need - from weight gain to depression, from poor performance and concentration to reduced creative

ability and lower immunity to diseases. This comes at a time when the pressures of the modern world are definitely leading to decreased sleep times.”

Daytime tiredness in young children and students is a real issue and The Sleep Council’s Time to Learn survey in 2012 revealed that lack of sleep among primary school children was having a devastating effect in schools, with nine out of 10 teachers (92%) complaining that pupils were so tired they were unable to pay attention in class. Worryingly, more than a third (38%) of teachers said lack of sleep among youngsters is a daily problem for them.

“While we teach children about nutrition and ensure regular exercise is part of their weekly activities, the third critical ingredient of a healthy lifestyle – sleep – is barely touched upon.

Youngsters need to know that a healthy lifestyle includes a good night’s sleep,” said Lisa.

“Lack of sleep is something of a national epidemic, so it is particularly important for parents to establish good sleep hygiene habits at an early age - not letting them stay up too late, sleep wherever they want and demand snacks and attention in the middle of the night.”

There are so many different factors which can affect children’s sleep so parents should check the obvious causes first such as room temperature, light, noise, hunger or thirst. Other influences are illness (actual or impending), changes or stress in the family, holidays and fear.

Here are The Sleep Council’s top tips for parents: Establishing and sticking to a bedtime routine right from the start until early teens can go a long way to minimising later problems.

This is normally along the lines of teatime, followed by quiet play, bath, story and then bed. Bedtime should be around the same time each evening (although on non-school nights, older children already established in a good sleep pattern may be allowed to stay up later).

Don’t expect children to go to sleep immediately – after all, most adults don’t – and they should be allowed to read or play quietly until they drop off. It’s still promoting a relaxing environment.

If your child can’t sleep, don’t be tempted to get them back out of bed - instead encourage them to be quiet and lie down.

Try not to get cross with your child if they’re refusing to go to sleep. This only aggravates the situation and doesn’t aid the relaxing atmosphere before bed.

Ensure the environment is right for sleep – it should be cool, quiet, dark and free from distraction. Ideally computers, gaming machines and TVs should be banned from the bedroom but if that’s unlikely then at least keep them away from the bed and try to limit the use of these devices in the hour just before bedtime!

It’s also extremely important to make sure the bed is comfortable and supportive for a growing child – many parents think nothing of spending a fortune on shoes for a child’s growing feet but scrimp on a mattress. Also make the bed a welcoming, positive place – never send kids to bed if they’re being naughty!

Keep regular bedtime hours. A good sleep routine will work wonders.

Know how much sleep your child needs. As a general rule of thumb, toddlers need around 12 hours of sleep a night; children aged four to six – 10.5-11.5 hours; six-12 years olds – 10 hours; and teenagers – around eight to nine hours.

For more information visit sleepcouncil.org.uk

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Families Central Scotland

Early Years Special

Why choose childminding?

From August 2020, all three and four-year-olds and eligible two-year-olds in Scotland will be entitled to almost double the current funded childcare allowance - from 600 to 1140 hours per year. This is around 30 hours per week during term time.

As a parent or carer, you could use some or all of your hours with a childminder, as long as they are listed as an approved provider with their local authority.

Why choose childminding?

Childminding is consistently rated by the Care Inspectorate as being one of the highest quality forms of childcare in Scotland and follows the same learning and policy frameworks as nurseries (including Curriculum for Excellence). The low adult-to-child ratio enables the childminder to tailor their care to best suits the needs of the child and their family.

“Anna found nursery quite overwhelming and I decided that a childminder setting with smaller numbers of children would suit her better. It’s made a fantastic difference to her. She takes part in lots of real-life activities and learning experiences with her childminder and gets to spend time with other children of all different age groups. She is also delighted to be given some independence in making decisions around the activities that she does each day.”

To find out more about funded hours and the many benefits of childminding, visit childminding.org/elc or call us on 01786 449063.

Your Childcare, Your Choice!

From August, all three and four year-olds and eligible two year-olds* are entitled to 1140 hours of funded Early Learning and Childcare.

As a parent, it’s your choice which provider(s) you choose to deliver this childcare for your family. riety n enjoy a va Our childre d interacting an es iti tiv of ac ey are children, th ills. with other ning new sk ar le ly nt ta cons

Why choose childminding? ✓it has one of the highest quality ratings and the lowest adult to child ratios of all forms of childcare in Scotland ✓children can learn and play with other ages – providing opportunities to enhance early learning, confidence and social development in a safe, nurturing, home-based environment

Did you know?

It is also possible to use a mix of childcare providers to suit your family’s needs - such as spending part of the day with a childminder and part of it with a nursery*.

Call SCMA on 01786 449063 or visit childminding.org/elc *Please contact your local authority to find out what is available to you.

1140 h

rs

Over half of parents feel lonely New research has found that over half (56%) of parents with children under the age of five years experience loneliness at least some of the time.

The study by the charity, Coram Family and Childcare reveals that the issue affects significantly more women than men, with twice as many mothers as fathers saying they often feel left out; as well as younger parents, with nearly 37% of parents aged 18 to 24 often feeling a lack of companionship, compared to 21% of parents aged 25 to 34.

Loneliness is most prevalent around the birth of a baby, particularly if parents are unable to get out of the house easily and when the children are older but haven’t yet started school.

Focus groups conducted by Coram Family and Childcare concluded that parents felt the best way to combat loneliness and isolation was to meet other parents by participating in activities that their child would enjoy.

More info: familyandchildcaretrust.org familiesonline.co.uk

11

Easter Holidays

Great Local Ideas for the Easter Holidays Spring is in the air and there are loads of family days out to enjoy in Central Scotland!

Blair Drummond Safari Park opens for the new season on 21st March and this year is going to be wilder than ever!

The family favourite is celebrating its fiftieth anniversary and has lots of exciting plans in store to mark the occasion, including a brand new dinosaur attraction which is due to open on 1st April. ‘World of Dinosaurs’ will be home to over 20 moving, roaring and life-size dinosaurs set in 1000 m2 of woodland, making it one of the UK’s best dinosaur experiences. And the best part? Entry is included in the price of a Safari Park ticket and free for members.

The Bo’ness & Kinneil Railway & Museum of Scottish Railways – fun for the kids Make the most of your visit to Central Scotland’s family friendly steam railway and museum when the 2020 season starts on 4 April. Come travel on our steam railway and enjoy Scotland’s largest railway museum. You can show your old-fashioned ticket to the Guard and he may even let you help him clip it on the journey! Watch the engine being coupled up to the carriages … is it really magnets that hold them together? Be Harry Potter in a compartment carriage with its own sliding door. Then enjoy some fun with our brass rubbings on the Visitor Trail to the museum. In the museum, get hands on and discover railway history through fun interactive displays, or have fun sorting letters in the Travelling Post Office!

Come along and have a great day out! Bo’ness and Kinneil Railway, Union Street, Bo’ness EH51 OAQ www.bkrailway.co.uk

Visit during the spring school holidays and there will be lots of free fun indoor activities for children in our cosy safari marquee, plus a chance to go on a dino stomp with a real live explorer, and an Easter bunny hunt with prizes.

Tickets: Adults £16.50, children £13.50 and infants FREE blairdrummond.com

Fresh air & fun for all the family Baby animals, spring flowers, fresh air after a long, dark winter… the Easter Holidays may just be the perfect time to visit a farm park! Briarlands is now open again for 2020 and it’s always a superb day out, with loads to see and do, indoor and outdoor play, animal feeding, tractor rides, home baking and much more (briarlandsfarm.co.uk); Wellsfield re-opens for the season on 30th March, with acres of space and great fun activities for all ages (wellsfield.co.uk); Almond Valley promises a wonderful day of adventure and play (almondvalley.co.uk/); or pop on your wellies and head to Muiravonside for a free fresh air stroll and a play in the park (falkirkcommunitytrust.org/venues/muiravonside-countrypark/).

Walking with a purpose More daylight, nicer weather, drier playparks, bluebells, daffodils, picnics, rolling Easter eggs… there are lots of reasons why more people walk in the spring! If the kids need more of an incentive to get out and about though, why not try a Treasure Trail of your local area (treasuretrails. co.uk), Geocaching (geocaching.com) or a family orienteering event (fvo.org.uk)?

There’s also the free Fairy Doors Trail at Zetland Park and the family-friendly Red Squirrel Trail in Devilla Forest – or, for older ones, there’s fun to be had at Scotland’s only dedicated footgolf course (footgolfcumbernauld.co.uk).

Turn the page for more local family activities during March & April - and keep up to date by following us on Facebook @FamCS and Twitter @FamiliesCentral!

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Families Central Scotland

Easter Holidays

Come and join in the Easter fun at KIDZ TOWN, Stirling This Easter there will be something for everyone at KIDZ TOWN. Follow the clues to find Easter eggs hidden in some of our 14 different fun-filled role play locations all around the town! There will also be various Easter craft activities and story sessions on selected dates throughout April.

Our popular Breakfast with the Easter bunny event is the perfect start to your Easter weekend, or why not try our Mad Hatter themed high tea with the Easter bunny? Both events include play in KIDZ TOWN before heading up to our lovely “Rooftops” room overlooking the “town”, where you will be served a delicious pancake breakfast or high tea before the Easter bunny arrives with an Easter treat for all the children.

To book your Easter holiday play session or event visit kidztownroleplay.com Don’t forget, you can stay’n’play all day, 10am -3pm Weekdays Term Time for only £6.95!!

The Falkirk Wheel Sail through the sky this Easter by taking a trip on the world’s only rotating boat lift. Learn about Archimedes’ principle as you venture from the Forth & Clyde Canal onto the Union Canal and back. With a choice of trips and under 5s going free, it’s a great family day out.

Come rain or shine, this feat of engineering has you covered this Easter. For a sunny day out, there are play areas and splash parks, as well as water based activities like zorbing and bumper boats – so be sure to bring a towel with you!

Grab an ice cream or wood-fired pizza in the outdoor food trucks, or head inside for a hearty lunch in the visitor centre before browsing for the perfect souvenir. Up for a bigger adventure? Why not take the #Wheel2Kelpies selfie trail to neigh-bours The Kelpies just four miles away? thefalkirkwheel.co.uk Facebook: @TheFalkirkWheel

Try Tenpin!

Ice-cream & space to play Come along to The Milk Barn and enjoy a delicious homemade ice-cream! The Milk Barn is situated on a working dairy farm and the ice-cream is made from their own pedigree herd of Holstein Friesian cows, with 36 different flavours on display every day. There is also soya ice-cream for diabetics, dairy free sorbets and frozen fresh fruit yoghurt. The Milk Barn is very child friendly, with indoor and outdoor play areas, a jumping pillow, and a fibreglass milking cow, Glenda! There are many more delicious treats on offer too, including paninis, sandwiches, baked potatoes and fresh home baking. The ice-cream milkshakes are amazing! Ask staff for any dietary guidelines.

Opening hours are 10am to 5pm every day. Glen Farm, Glen Village, Falkirk, FK1 3AA - contact 01324 630 703 or visit themilkbarn.co.uk

The Tenpin centre on Redbrae Road in Falkirk has had a refurbishment programme which has seen around £1 million being spent to create a newer and more stylish entertainment venue in the town.

It now has 18 bowling lanes, which have new screens above the lanes to keep score, new bowling balls and a faster system for resetting the pins to enhance the bowling experience. It has eight new pool tables, new table tennis tables, air hockey and some of the latest arcade games that have been installed in the extended amusement section of the centre.

The centre offers free car parking, with customers required to simply input their car registration details on arrival.

Tenpin at Redbrae Road, Camelon, Falkirk FK1 4HZ is open 11am to midnight Monday to Thursday and Sundays; and 11am to 1am on a Friday and Saturday, opening from 10am daily during the school holidays.

Book online at tenpin.co.uk/our-locations/falkirk/

Turn the page for more local family activities during March & April - and keep up to date by following us on Facebook @FamCS and Twitter @FamiliesCentral! familiesonline.co.uk

13

Out & About SUNDAY 1ST MARCH

We take great care in compiling our events guide, but check with the venues before you leave home just in case details have changed since we went to print.

Have a magical time at Inglewood House with this magical themed afternoon tea.

Phone 01259 216156.

SATURDAY 7TH AND SUNDAY 8TH MARCH

JUMANJI: THE NEXT LEVEL

hippodromecinema.co.uk/

screenings. There are films for all ages to enjoy including the Jeely Jar double bill on Saturday 21st with Behind the Screen & Sherlock Jr, then New Found Sound and Laurel & Hardy Triple Bill on Sunday 22nd. For full details of the programme of events visit hippfest.co.uk

SUNDAY 8TH MARCH

SATURDAY 21ST MARCH

WIZARDING AFTERNOON AT INGLEWOOD HOUSE

Bo’ness Hippodrome 1.30pm hippodromecinema.co.uk/

LAUNCH OF WACKY WIZARDS New escape room for kids, Falkirk escape-transcend. co.uk/kids-escaperoom/

TUESDAY 3RD TO THURSDAY 5TH MARCH ANNIE AT FTH THEATRE, FALKIRK After two years at the Edinburgh Fringe with sell out audiences and great reviews Captivate is bringing this muchloved family favourite to FTH Theatre. falkirkcommunitytrust.org

THURSDAY 5TH MARCH WORLD BOOK DAY

THURSDAY 5TH TO SATURDAY 7TH MARCH THE OFF THE PAGE SMALL PRINT CHILDREN’S BOOK FESTIVAL Run by Stirling libraries this festival will feature bestselling authors and will include a free programme of events for children and their families as well as a programme of events for schools. Facebook: @ offthepagefestival

SATURDAY 7TH MARCH WOODLAND MAGIC AT JUPITER WILDLIFE CENTRE Discover the magical inhabitants of Jupiter. Come along to find the fairies and elves hiding in the woodland and make them a new home.

Suitable for ages 3-10.

Booking essential. Contact the ranger: falkirkranger@ scottishwildlifetrust.org.uk

YDANCE DESTINATIONS 2020 AT MACROBERT ARTS CENTRE Offering a diverse line-up of high-quality performances, Destinations is a vibrant showcase of the best youth dance companies from across Scotland. macrobertartscentre.org

WACKY WORLD AT GRANGEMOUTH SPORTS COMPLEX The UK’s largest indoor

14

Families Central Scotland

inflatable activity arena event comes to Grangemouth! wackyworld.co.uk

PAW PATROL: READY, RACE, RESCUE Bo’ness Hippodrome

THE SECRET GARDEN AT MACROBERT ARTS CENTRE When Mary arrives from far away to live with her uncle, she is grumpy, difficult and lonely. Then one day a robin helps Mary find the key to a mysterious garden, and there she discovers a wonder and magic that she had never imagined possible. macrobertartscentre.org

FRIDAY 13TH TO SUNDAY 15TH MARCH MONUMENT DANCE PRESENT STEP IN TIME AT MACROBERT ARTS CENTRE Monument Dance showcase ballet, tap, jazz and contemporary dance macrobertartscentre.org

SATURDAY 14TH MARCH DYSLEXIA SCOTLAND YOUTH DAY For 10-11 year olds, Raploch Community Campus, Stirling dyslexiascotland.org.uk/youthdays

SATURDAY 14TH AND SUNDAY 15TH MARCH SPYCIES BO’NESS HIPPODROME

hippodromecinema.co.uk

SUNDAY 15TH MARCH WETLAND WILDLIFE WANDER AT LINLITHGOW LOCH Join a Ranger on a walk round the loch whilst keeping a look out for the wildlife that calls it home. Contact the HS Rangers on 0131 6528150 or rangers@ hes.scot

FAMILY SILENT DISCO AT DOBBIE HALL, LARBERT Grab your headphones and sing and dance to all your favourite pop, dance-along classics and lots more! With three channels of amazing music there is something for all the family. silent-knights.co.uk

WEDNESDAY 18TH TO SUNDAY 22ND MARCH HIPPFEST 2020 HippFest celebrates silent film and live music with an ambitious programme of

MOTHER’S DAY AFTERNOON TEA AT CALLENDAR HOUSE TEAROOM There’s nothing like a homemade Afternoon Tea to help celebrate a special occasion, so why not treat the special Mum in your life on Mother’s Day? Book online or phone 01324 506850.

CELEBRATE MOTHER’S DAY AT THE HOWGATE SHOPPING CENTRE A dedicated area on the mall will be transformed into a pamper zone where mums & grans can enjoy massage, Reiki or reflexology. Borg Grech Photography will take a free professional 8x6 portrait photo which you can either have on your own or with family members. Children can make Mother’s Day gifts at the craft zone to give to mum on Mother’s Day. 11-3pm. howgateshoppingcentre.co.uk

BLAIR DRUMMOND SAFARI PARK – NEW SEASON OPENING WEEKEND Scotland’s favourite family attraction is back with a roar for 2020 and is celebrating its golden anniversary with lots of new arrivals! blairdrummond.com

DYSLEXIA SCOTLAND YOUTH DAY For 12-13 year olds, Raploch Community Campus, Stirling dyslexiascotland.org.uk/youthdays

SATURDAY 21ST AND SUNDAY 22ND MARCH KELPIES SUPERNOVA 5K AT THE HELIX Come along and join in this family run. thehelix.com

SUNDAY 22ND MARCH MOTHER’S DAY

FRIDAY 27TH MARCH WEAR A HAT DAY The UK’s fun-filled, premier annual brain tumour awareness event helping support longterm research and saving lives. braintumourresearch.org/ wearahatday

SATURDAY 28TH MARCH THE WHIRLYBIRD AT MACROBERT ARTS CENTRE Music, bird song, puppetry and lots of things that spin, in a show for children and their families. macrobertartscentre.org

MASTER BUILDERS AT THE ENGINE SHED Families can get hands on with the skills used to conserve Scotland’s traditional buildings.

Discover the traditional skill of stonemasonry and dry stone dyking. engineshed.scot

SATURDAY 28TH AND SUNDAY 29TH MARCH SONIC THE HEDGEHOG Bo’ness Hippodrome. hippodromecinema.co.uk

SUNDAY 29TH MARCH HOLISTIC & WELLBEING FAIR AT THE DUNBLANE CENTRE Over 50 stalls offering different therapies as well as products to explore, talks, taster sessions and cafe. dunblanecentre.co.uk

PENCILS AND PICNICS WORKSHOP AT MADE IN STIRLING Join Illustrator The Grey Earl for a creative character drawing workshop. Using interesting materials and learning some unusual ways of drawing, with some foodie themes along the way. For budding artists aged 6-10. For tickets and information phone 01786 357550.

TUESDAY 31ST MARCH TO SATURDAY 4TH APRIL SABOS PRESENT ANNIE AT MACROBERT ARTS CENTRE It’s a hard knock life for orphan Annie in 1930s New York, but you can bet your bottom dollar that her grey and lonely days will soon be over! Book tickets now for this family friendly, toe tapping musical. macrobertartscentre.org

WEDNESDAY 1ST APRIL WORLD OF DINOSAURS DUE TO OPEN! Blair Drummond Safari Park’s ROARSOME new attraction is being billed as one of the UK’s best dinosaur experiences.

Behind huge Jurassic Park-style gates is a forest to explore with over twenty moving, roaring, life-size dinosaurs. Entry is included in the price of a Safari Park ticket and free for members. blairdrummond.com

Out & About

We take great care in compiling our events guide, but check with the venues before you leave home just in case details have changed since we went to print.

WEDNESDAY 1ST, 8TH, 15TH, 22ND AND 29TH APRIL

BIG FISH LITTLE FISH – NEON GLOW THEME FAMILY RAVE

SCOTLAND’S NATIONAL HERO AT THE WALLACE MONUMENT

City Nightclub, Falkirk 2-4.30pm bigfishlittlefishevents. co.uk/events/

Listen as a costumed actor gives a short presentation on the life of William Wallace.

This is free but admission prices apply should you wish to climb the monument. nationalwallacemonument. com/

TROLLS ON TOUR AFTERNOON TEA

WEDNESDAY 1ST TO SUNDAY 19TH APRIL

TALES FROM THE BATTLEFIELD AT THE WALLACE MONUMENT

APRIL RHYMING RABBIT AT MUIRAVONSIDE COUNTRY PARK Collect your trail, follow the clues & claim your prize! falkirkcommunitytrust.org

SATURDAY 4TH APRIL EASTER EGG HUNT AT RSPB BLACK DEVON WETLANDS Make and decorate your own Easter basket before heading off round the reserve to collect the eggs that the birds have left lying about. Phone 01324 832853 for tickets and details.

LIGHT SCIENCE DAY AT THE ENGINE SHED Come along and learn about the science of light through some amazing, fun, practical events in partnership with the Light Lab Project. engineshed.scot

SATURDAY 4TH TO MONDAY 20TH APRIL THE BIG SPRING FLING AT BLAIR DRUMMOND SAFARI PARK The Safari Park is all set to bring in spring with two weeks of family-friendly activities over the school holidays. Visitors can expect a fun-filled day out, with storytelling, Easter crafts and entertainment inside our beautiful spring-themed marquee. There will be the opportunity for intrepid explorers to join us for a Dino Stomp, and the usual traditional Easter bunny hunt with prizes.

All this is included in the standard price of admission.

Online tickets are £16.50 for adults, £13.50 for children, and free for infants and members. blairdrummond.com

SUNDAY 5TH APRIL EASTER OPEN DAY AT BANNOCKBURN HOUSE Enjoy fun for all the family with egg-painting, heritage treasure trails, storytelling, face painting and home baking, as well as guided tours of the house. familiesonline.co.uk

Airth Castle. Facebook @ AirthCastleHotel

WEEKENDS IN APRIL (INCLUDING EASTER WEEKEND)

As you listen to costumed actors you will be transported back to one of the most dramatic periods in Scottish history, when Stirling was at the centre of all the action.

This is free but admission prices apply should you wish to climb the monument. nationalwallacemonument. com/

WEDNESDAY 8TH APRIL PAPER MOON AT FTH THEATRE FALKIRK A delightful and memorable adventure show for under fives.

The moonlight is beautiful, shining across the bedroom floor as Poppy Diddle dozes off.

Join Poppy and her dog Peppy on this wonderful adventure as she launches across the canvas sky, at the speed of light, towards the Paper Moon. falkirkcommunitytrust.org

SPRING INTO SPRING AT JUPITER WILDLIFE CENTRE Join us at Jupiter to celebrate spring with crafts, games and nature exploration!

Suitable for ages 5-12.

Booking essential. Contact the ranger on falkirkranger@ scottishwildlifetrust.org.uk

EMERGENCY SERVICES DAY AT THE HELIX 11am-4pm Full of sirens and flashing lights, the Great Lawn will be a hive of activity.

There will be a sensory hour between 3-4pm with no sirens or flashing lights so that everyone who wants to can come along and enjoy the day.

Demonstrations will take place from Police Scotland Dog Unit, Scottish Ambulance Service and Fire Service. thehelix.co.uk

FRIDAY 10TH TO MONDAY 13TH APRIL EASTER WEEKEND EASTER EGG SPECIALS AT BO’NESS STEAM RAILWAY A free tasty Easter treat for every child, a journey by steam through the spring countryside and fun in the Museum hunting the Easter Eggs! bkrailway.co.uk

CADBURY EASTER EGG HUNTS National Trust locations throughout Scotland, including Alloa Tower, House of the Binns and The Battle of Bannockburn. nts.org.uk

SATURDAY 11TH APRIL SHARK IN THE PARK AT FTH THEATRE FALKIRK Featuring all three of the ‘Shark in the Park’ series – Shark in the Park, Shark in the Dark and Shark in the Park on a Windy Day – this fin-tastic, family musical follows Timothy Pope (and his telescope!) on his exciting adventures. falkirkcommunitytrust.org

SINGALONG SHENANIGANS AT HOWDEN PARK, LIVINGSTON A great family Disney singalong! howdenparkcentre.co.uk

SATURDAY 11TH AND SUNDAY 12TH APRIL EASTER FUN AT CALLENDAR HOUSE Follow a self-guided Easter trail around Callendar House and receive a wee Easter treat when you finish. £1 entry per child. falkirkcommunitytrust.org

MONDAY 13TH TO FRIDAY 17TH APRIL TINKERTOWN AT THE ENGINE SHED The City of Play is coming to the Engine Shed in Stirling. This is a free event for children and families to design, build and play as they like with hammers, saws and pallets. See Facebook at @TheCityofPlay for more details on sessions (three days will be open to all, subject to a maximum number).

WEDNESDAY 15TH APRIL PHENOMENAL POND LIFE AT JUPITER WILDLIFE CENTRE

SATURDAY 18TH APRIL FAMILY PHOTOGRAPHY WORKSHOP AT JUPITER WILDLIFE CENTRE Come along and discover some top photography tips! Suitable for families with children aged 8+. Booking essential. Contact the ranger on falkirkranger@ scottishwildlifetrust.org.uk

SPONTANEOUS POTTER KIDZ AT FTH THEATRE FALKIRK Grab your wands, don your house robes, and apparate yourselves to the box office! A very magical improv show awaits. 2pm. falkirkcommunitytrust.org

SATURDAY 18TH AND SUNDAY 19TH APRIL UNICORN AT STIRLING CASTLE Come along for a weekend of celebrating Scotland’s national animal at Stirling Castle.

Discover more about the mythical beast and take part in an exciting array of activities.

Included in general admission price. historicenvironment.scot/

WEDNESDAY 22ND APRIL MAPESTRY WORKSHOP COME FORTH FOR WILDLIFE FREE textile art workshops for all ages to create a tapestry of the Forth Valley and its local heritage. Draw, colour, paint, stick, cut and add to this wonderful textile Mapestry. froglife.org

SATURDAY 25TH AND SUNDAY 26TH APRIL FUNBOX PRESENT JUNGLE PARTY AT MACROBERT ARTS CENTRE Join Anya, Kevin, Gary and Bonzo as they swing into their latest musical adventure and follow the sound of the drums in search of the ultimate jungle boogie. macrobertartscentre.org

SUNDAY 26TH APRIL SCOTLAND’S STRONGEST MAN CONTEST Stirling County Rugby Ground, 1pm. ultimatestrongman.tv/

What lurks beneath the surface? We will discover the amazing variety of creatures who call our ponds home!

Suitable for ages 5-12.

Booking essential. Contact the ranger on falkirkranger@ scottishwildlifetrust.org.uk 15

RAIN OR SHINE...

THE FALKIRK WHEEL

HAS SOMETHING FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY THIS EASTER!

WEDNESDAY 18 - SUNDAY 22 MARCH 2020

Join us at the world’s only rotating boat lift for boat trips, scrumptious scran and outdoor activities!

BOX OFFICE: 01324 506850 THE HIPPODROME, 10 HOPE STREET, BO'NESS EH51 OAA HIPPFEST.CO.UK |

thefalkirkwheel.co.uk

@FalkirkWheel

MAKE YOUR CHILD’S SPECIAL CELEBRATION MORE FUN!

RUGBYTOTS PARTIES

A Rugbytots Party is a fun-filled way to celebrate your child’s birthday, starting school or any other special event.

Distinctive and dynamic, our parties place the emphasis on play, with plenty of party games and group participation.

rugbytots.co.uk david.grainey@rugbytots.co.uk