Families Fife Jan-Feb 2011

FREE Issue 5 Jan/Feb 2011

Inco rporating Perth & Kinross

The really useful magazine for families living in Fife, Perth & Kinross

✱ What’s on and clubs and classes listings ✱ Porridge politics – how do you like yours? ✱ A look at registered childcare

New Year New You Families guide to health and wellbeing in 2011

Pick up your copy in Dunfermline  Glenrothes  Kirkcaldy  Perth  Kinross  Cupar  St Andrews or a village in between

Features Contents

Keep kids cosy I

t seems that ever since Funky Rascal kids clothing shop in Cupar opened its doors on the 6th November it hasn’t stopped snowing!

Owners Anne and Graeme know a thing or two about keeping children warm.

Anne explains “so often, I see children out sledging in jeans tucked into wellies. The jeans get soaked in 5 minutes and the wellies fill up with melting snow.”

So to put things right follow this guide to keeping your children warm during the cold snap. As Anne points out “a warm, dry child is a much happier child and that makes for happy parents!”

We couldn’t agree more!

There are 3 key layers for keeping warm and dry base, thermal and waterproof.

Base-layer

For going sledging requires a proper thermal layer.  Try Lindberg range  Base layer - Out and about requires tights or leggings & a t-shirt and/or long-sleeved top.

Breathable fabrics are best.  Try Maxomorra range.

Thermal layer

 Fleece tops and trousers are ideal. Try Didriksons, one of Sweden’s oldest and most reputable outdoor clothing manufacturers.

Inco rporating Perth & Kinross 3 Welcome to Families Fife 4 Who, What, Where, When: What’s new and update

Waterproof layer: 3 options  A winter jacket and salopettes which will keep children both dry and extra warm  A fully waterproof and/or windproof jacket and trousers set will keep the snow and slush out  An all-in-one suit, either padded, again for extra warmth, but at least waterproof.  Try Togz for their all-in-one suits which have proven a big hit.

And finally don’t forget hats and gloves. In severe weather such as we’ve had, ditch the wool gloves and go for waterproof, fleece lined styles.  You can find Funky Rascal at 59 Crossgate in Cupar, open from Tuesday to Saturday, 9.30am to 5pm. Alternatively call Anne or Graeme on 01334 659 047, visit their website www.funkyrascal. co.uk or keep up to date on new stock, offers and more on their Facebook page #Funky Rascal.

Breaking news… Sale starts Tuesday 4th January

6 Childcare: A look at registered childcare with the Fife Childcare Information Service 7 Parent to Parent: With Kelly McMahon, one of Fife’s fittest mums 8 Finding balance: Moving on into a healthy, happy 2011 11 Birth, Baby and Beyond: Updates for mums to be and new mums 12 Healthy eating: A celebration of oats 13 Clubs and Classes: Local clubs and classes listings 14 Out and About: What’s on at the start of the year

Contact us Families Fife, PO Box 29205, Dunfermline, KY12 2BL Editor: Susan Kirkwood, editor@familiesfife.co.uk Tel: 01383 735938 or 07734 289 143 Circulation: 12,000 copies printed. Distributed free of charge throughout Fife, Perth and Kinross by kind permission of Fife Libraries, Fife Leisure Centres, antenatal clinics, health visitors, surgeries, community use schools, Theatres in Fife and Perth, places of historic interest, local attractions, selected shops and playgroups and play centres.

Print: J Thomson. Due care was taken to source print and other services required to produce this magazine from within the local area.

Deadline for Issue 6 March/April: 31 January 2011 Families Fife© is a part of a larger group of magazines headed by Families SW London©. All franchised magazines are independently owned and operated under license. We take every care preparing this magazine, but the publishers and distributors cannot be held responsible for the claims of advertisers nor for the accuracy of the contents nor for any consequences. Any original materials submitted for publication are sent at owner’s own risk and, while every care is taken, neither Families nor its agents accept liability for loss or damage.

2 | Families Fife Issue 5 FunkyRascal_73x50_ad_cmyk.indd 1

30/11/2010 18:14

Features teach your baby to swim!

OF 3 N

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fun, innovative classes creating life-saving confidence from birth

0131 554 6682

waterbabies.co.uk

Watch that space!

During the cold months we will be updating and expanding the Families Fife website.

Look out for blogs, join forums and use the local directory at www.familiesfife.co.uk. Registering once will make Fife, Perth & Kinross your homepage (as opposed to the group site).

Fife Childcare Information Service Childcare costs keeping you awake at night?

To get a better night’s sleep, call us.

We can advise on: • Childcare costs and how to pay • Options – nursery or childminder • Availability

Help your child go far with Kip McGrath

It’s our job to get you to yours.

And get you a good sleep the night before.

Our qualified teachers create individual tutoring programmes for your child, using proven Kip McGrath methods of tuition.

Maths Reading Call today English Spelling for a FREE Comprehension assessment Dunfermline: Sue 01383 621622 Kirkcaldy: Karen 01592 647 703

IONAL

WINNE

he new year is all about goals and resolutions so this issue’s focus is wellbeing. The pages are packed with ideas to try so that you and your family can start 2011 on the right foot. This may be as simple as trying something new like a new class or it could be just deciding to eat more healthily. Take inspiration from our feature on the humble oat – there’s a lot you can do with oats and do check our website for more ideas.

As always, I implore you to get in touch by ‘phone or by email to let me know what you think of the magazine and what features you like to see. Also, if you use any of the services you see advertised in the magazine, do tell the companies concerned as they like to know how you found out about them.

And finally, don’t forget your friends. Christmas is all about spending time with family but in the cold, dark months it’s great to remember who your friends are and to meet up, share child care and drink hot chocolate!  Happy New Year!

Susan Kirkwood, Editor

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AR AW DS

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 Call Susan on 07734 289 143 to advertise here

Call us on: 01592 583146 or visit www.scottishchildcare.gov.uk

kipmcgrath.co.uk

Issue 5 Families Fife | 3

News: Who, What, Where, When …

Features

Circle of Comfort needs your support Orla Beaton am always keen to support local charities and one which I came across recently seemed to me to be an extremely worthwhile cause. Circle of Comfort is a registered charity which offers complementary therapies to diagnosed cancer patients in their own home or in hospital. Massage, aromatherapy or reflexology treatments are given by one of a team of therapists to patients in the Fife area, free of charge.

The charity was established in 2007 by Dunfermline based therapist, Roseann Haig, who had been inspired to give something back to the community that helped her build a successful business. As part of her private practice Roseann treated clients with various cancer diagnoses and saw firsthand the benefit that complementary therapies can provide to patients with cancer.

I asked Roseann what her clients thought of the service and she explained, “We ask clients to complete a simple evaluation form on sleep, appetite, pain, relaxation etc. to find

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out if our therapies help with these specific issues. We have found that the feedback is extremely positive both in terms of client experience of the therapist and the benefits they feel come from treatment.”

Given that 1 in 3 people will develop cancer in their lifetime most of us will be touched by this issue in some way. Treatment is far from straightforward and having spoken to Roseann I can see how people living with cancer would value the service highly. Through the hard work of Roseann and her team, Circle of Comfort has now established itself as an important service within the local community & area of palliative care. However, more funding is needed to ensure that the service can continue to operate and allow it to expand in the future. I would urge you to support Circle of Comfort and give what you can. All donations, big & small, make a vital difference to people living locally with cancer.  If you would like to donate or know of someone who may benefit from this service, you can find out more at www.circleofcomfort.org.uk.

Putt amongst poles & palms

H

WOW – It’s Women Out Walking!

O

ne of the easiest ways to become more physically active is through walking. To celebrate the benefits of walking, women in Fife are being invited along to Templehall Community Centre, Kirkcaldy on the 8th March to experience the WOW factor. WOW (Women Out Walking) will coincide with the 100th anniversary of International Women’s Day and offer a choice of two led walks, a Health Fair, balloons, music and goody bags to all who complete the walk, with lots of information available about how to become and remain more active.

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Physical Activity Co-ordinator, Sue Whisler explained “The event will run from 10am-12.30pm and we are expecting quite a crowd of women of all ages. The led walks are accessible to all and the event has already attracted a lot of interest from local groups, including many mums who will be pushing buggies.”  If you would like more information about WOW or would like to register to take part, please contact: Active Fife Team, Tel: 01383 602393 e-mail: Sue.Whisler@fife.gov.uk

ave you seen the new spitting totem poles at Scotland’s first ‘Florida style’ 36 hole outdoor Adventure Golf at Fife Leisure Park? These are a must see and guarantee lots of fun for those who dare pass them. Will you get away with it or will they get you?

The Pirate themed courses – Treasure Island and Pirate’s Cove – offer you the opportunity to have fun, test your skill and win “Treasure” to exchange for a FREE game!

Putt your way admidst waterfalls, fountains, Pirate forts, Palm trees,Tiki Huts and a fully rigged Pirate Ship! Experience the challenge of “night play” on the floodlit courses and enjoy putting on the luxury “carpeted” greens.

This unique experience is the ideal fun activity for everyone, from toddlers to grandparents. Adult entry is £6 and children £5 or just £3 for 4 year olds and under. Family tickets and group booking rates available. *Kids Birthday Party Offer*- £5.00 per child, £7.50 for both courses (36 holes). Also there is an area to use for birthday food which keeps the costs down as you can bring your own food/cake.  Tel: 01383 737 152 or see www.adventure-golf-island.com

Features Families meets…

Becky Roche

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Be one of fifty fiver fifers… …taking part in the monster bike and hike for Maggie’s Fife’s fifth birthday

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011 marks the eighth year of the Monster Bike and Hike, Maggie’s Cancer Caring Centres flagship fundraising event. This year is also the fifth anniversary of the opening of Maggie’s Centre in Fife. Tu Edwards, Community Fundraiser for the centre, has decided to join the two anniversaries together and lead by example by taking part in the event and attempting to get fifty five Fifers to join her.

Tu said: “Monster 2010 raised over £600,000 for Maggie’s, it is an incredibly

important event for the charity and one that captures the imagination of people across Scotland. I decided to sign up for 2011 to give myself a fitness focus and to have a great weekend with friends. So if you and your friends, family or colleagues fancy taking part, I would love to speak to you.”

The eighth annual Monster Bike & Hike takes place on the 30th April into 1st May 2011. To find out more about the 2011 Monster Bike and Hike visit www. maggiescentres.org/monster where you can watch a short promotional film. 

f you are about to visit Forth Park hospital, be sure to look out for their new poster campaign to support breastfeeding. The eyecatching posters each portray a calm mother and are simple and bright in their designs.

Aimed at letting mums know that Forth Park is a baby friendly hospital, each highlights a different aspect of breastfeeding, from the importance of latching on to how to pick up feeding cues from one’s baby.

Baby friendly means that the hospital supports mothers in their choice of infant feeding. To do this midwives are running

Becky has work on show at Art Room 59, Townhill Road in Dunfermline. You can also see her work on facebook. facebook.com/becky.roche1. Contact her by email: beckyroche@yahoo.co.uk

If you are interested in becoming one of the Fifty Five Fifers, please call Tu Edwards on 07825 056 386 or email tumong.edwards@maggiescentres.org

Designs on breastfeeding

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s a champion of women in general and mums in particular, Families magazine is pleased to have discovered enterprising mum Becky Roche.

Currently well into her second maternity leave, creative Becky, a graduate of Grays School of Art in Aberdeen, Becky is now firmly back to designing and making. When asked what motivated her creative return she replied honestly; “It is a welcome change from feeding and nappy changing and great to get my creative juices going again.” A self confessed hoarder Becky likes to collect decorative papers and fabrics which she combines with techniques such as felting, printing, batik on paper, and both machine and hand stitching to make tactile panels. Her work centres around the themes of fish and birds.

Most recently she has been focusing her energies on celebratory events such as Love, New Home, Weddings, Engagements, Anniversaries, New Baby and children’s names. Becky would love to hear from readers who’d like to commission a bespoke panel to celebrate a special occasion. 

ÊÊ Becky knows her way around a sewing machine

Infant Feeding Talks where mums have the opportunity to ask questions and be reassured they will be supported in the choice they make. Also at these sessions, mothers will be given advice on how to care for their new baby and what to expect in the change to their lifestyle with having a little baby to care for.

Infant feeding advisor Irene Fenske comments to Families magazine ‘it is such a precious time in a family’s life and to have some insight can give confidence that will make the experience all the more enjoyable.’  See back page for poster designs

Issue 5 Families Fife | 5

Education and Childcare

Demystifying registered childcare C

hoosing childcare which takes place outside of the home is an important step for any family. There are a number of options available so with the help of Fife Childcare Information Service, Families has put together this guide to the various options.

The most important thing to bear in mind when choosing your childcare provider is to check that they are registered with the Care Commission as this is mandatory for all care services. In fact the registration of all care workers with the Scottish Social Services Council is now underway though this won’t filter through for all workers for another few years yet - see www.sssc.uk.com for further information. Interesting to note however, is that nannies do not have to be registered but an agency that introduces nannies to parents does. Therefore do check the registration of any agency claiming to want to provide you with a nanny as they may masquerade as a job agency to get round this loophole (and thus avoid Care Commission inspections).

Local authority nurseries, private nurseries, community nurseries, workplace nurseries and playgroups can all provide free nursery places.

Information is available by finding Early Years Education on www.FifeDirect.org.uk. In the case of private nurseries the free place is unlikely to be available without further paid for sessions.

They will more usually tie you into fixed sessions at their going rate then will deduct the cost of the ‘free’ sessions to which your child is entitled from this total. The current entitlement is 12.5 hours per week. For peace of mind it is helpful to know that all organisations working in partnership with the Council providing the free

places are inspected by HMIe (Her Majesties Inspectorate Education). Inspection reports are available on their website.

Most people are aware of the more common childcare options such as local authority and private nurseries and childminders but don’t forget that there are other options which are designed to fit round the families needs.

Playgroups

Playgroups provide sessions of play and education for children. Some playgroups also work in partnership with their local authority to provide free, part time pre-school education places for three and four year olds.

You will find playgroups in most areas across the country, often wherever parents or voluntary groups have set them up, in city centres and in most rural villages. As parents help the staff normally on a rota basis, playgroups tend to be more suited to parents who are home based and who are perhaps just looking for extra support with daily childcare.

They are good for socialising for children who are used to playing on their own.

Out of School Clubs

Out of school clubs are for school-age children to play and learn and have fun in groups.

Usually based in or near schools, more are being set up to help families where parents work.

Playworkers will plan some activities and will often pick children up from local schools where the club is separate from the school. Most out of school clubs provide places for between 10 and 40 children although some are smaller

SCMA Childminder... has your child got one yet? ...Today I played with Lucy and Tom in the snow and we built a snowman then we cut up the Christmas cards and made a collage Tomorrow we are going to the indoor soft play area Is it nearly tomorrow, mummy?

Did you know that it is a legal requirement that anyone being paid to look after someone else s children for more than 2 hours per day, is registered with and inspected by the Care Commission?

A childminder is someone who is registered and inspected by the Care Commission who provides a flexible, home based childcare service.

Parents - If you are looking for a flexible childcare option that fits around your lifestyle and puts your child at the centre then select an SCMA childminder. Your child will benefit from a range of important developmental experiences such as socialising with other children and learning through active play outdoors all within a nurturing and safe family home environment.

For more information on finding a childminder call the local SCMA Childminding Development Officer on 01592 756986 or check out the website www.childminding.org.

6 | Families Fife Issue 5

 Call Susan on 07734 289 143 to advertise here

and others are larger. Some clubs also provide places for three and four year olds to fit around nursery or preschool education. There are breakfast clubs, after school clubs and holiday playschemes. These services are regulated by the Scottish Commission for the Regulation of Care (Care Commission) www.carecommission. com and are subject to annual inspection [unless they are caring for children for under 2 hours a day and fewer than 6 days a year].

Top 10 tips for choosing childcare

1 2 3 4 5 6 7

Check it out. Visit several possible options and keep an open mind Take your child. They will have an opinion [this may depend on age!]

Go with your heart - you are the expert on your child Don’t choose style over substance choose on quality of care not how it looks Talk to other parents with children who are a similar age or just a bit ahead of yours Look at community notice boards or ask at the local/catchment school Request and take up at least two references. Childcare providers should be happy to give you names of other parents to speak to about the service they provide.

Fife’s Childcare Information Service is the best place to get information on local registered childcare providers. Lists are available of registered childminders, nurseries, out-of-school and holiday clubs, pre-school/ playgroups and children’s leisure activities. T: 01592 583146 or www.scottishchildcare.gov.uk Perth and Kinross residents will find a similar service by calling 0845 601 4477, or e-mail childcare@pkc.gov.uk For advice on costs and paying for childcare see this website www.payingforchildcare.org.uk 

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Looking for childcare Mon - Fri mornings for your pre-school child?

Pitcorthie Pre-School Playgroup @ the John Marshall Community Centre

in the grounds of Pitreavie School is a long-established, friendly, playgroup at the heart of the community. We have places for children between ages 2.5 and 5. Sessions available Mon-Fri 9.30-12.00.

Further info: Susan 01383 729666 or 01383 602382 or visit our website: www.pitcorthieplaygroup.co.uk Funding options available for nursery aged children.

Regularly inpected by HMIe and Care Commission

Parent to Parent

Little ones love Lilliput F

rom Road Safety Week and Pudsey Bear to dripping icicles and of course Christmas, there’s so much fun on offer for little ones at Lilliput.

Children at Lilliput Nursery, a part of the multi award winning Bertram Nursery Group, had great fun participating in Road Safety Week events raising awareness of safety on the roads and encouraging local drivers to slow down near nurseries and schools.

All nurseries in the group took part in this event and enjoyed a wide range of activities including visits from community police, traffic light dress up days, Beep-Beep Day parties and lots more. Each child over the age of three years was gifted a high visibility slap wrap arm band to increase their safety making them clearly visible to local drivers.

Graeme Scott, Bertram’s Chief Executive, said “Safety is hugely important to us and if we can help the children in our care to understand the risks of the road we believe this event will have been a great success.

Children and staff at Lilliput, situated in the heart of Dunfermline, enjoyed a visit from their local Road Safety Officer who helped them practise following the Green Cross Code using a pretend road. Each child then received a sticker and a certificate of merit in recognition of their achievements.

Other recent events at the nursery have included a fabulous pyjama party and lots of spotty activities raising funds for Children in Need.

Current topics of interest at the nursery have naturally moved to the winter weather we are currently experiencing and the joys of the Christmas season. Michelle Nelson, Nursery Manager, and her team of dedicated staff are embracing the season providing lots of festive fun and frolics including Christmas parties with a very special visitor expected, song and dance, arts and crafts, baking and loads more. 

To find out more visit the group’s website at www.bertramnurserygroup.com

Lucky residents of Dunfermline may recognise Kelly McMahon from the local Zumba classes around town. Yes, Kelly is the one smiling whilst cracking the whip and rarely breaking a sweat as the rest of us turn purple and bump into our neighbours! As a qualified fitness instructor for over ten years, who better than fighting fit Kelly to talk to us this issue about what she and her children Mya (5) and Luca (2) get up to in Fife?

Why you like living where you do? I live in Dunfermline and I

absolutely love it. There are lots of facilities nearby and I live in a small child friendly street where there are lots of kids of all different ages who play together really well. I also have the best neighbours, so much so we have an annual street barbeque!

Favourite park Limekilns is my favourite park in the area. It has lots to do for children of all ages and is safe and easy to keep an eye on your kids at all times.

Favourite children’s club/ class Both my children have gone to

gymnastics at Dalgety Bay Leisure Centre t: 01383 602306 from a very early age and they both absolutely love it. Mya also enjoys her dancing with Geilda’s School of Dance at Dalgety Bay t: 01383 825361 where she does rock ‘n’ roll and disco. I would also recommend ‘Let’s Pretend’ who, as well as running kid’s parties, run an arts and crafts club in the school holidays. t: 01383 731447 www.lets-pretend. co.uk

Favourite day out I would have to

say that Cairnie Fruit Farm is my favourite day out (as long as the weather is good). There are loads to keep the kids amused – fruit picking, go karts, sandpits, slides, trampolines, a mega maze and a barrel bug ride. You can take a picnic or eat in the tea room which sells delicious cakes!!!!! www.cairniefruitfarm.co.uk

Favourite child friendly restaurant We often eat out at the

Crooked Glen at Duloch Leisure Park. The kids have a ball as they get to play in the soft play while waiting for their dinner. T:01383 840070.

Favourite child friendly restaurant We often eat out at the

Crooked Glen at Duloch Leisure Park. The kids

have a ball as they get to play in the soft play while waiting for their dinner. T:01383 840070.

Proudest eco-friendly moment Remembering to take my ‘bags

for life’ into Tescos with me!!!!

Best planet saving tip My daughter Mya often lectures me that in order to save the world we shouldn’t run the water while brushing our teeth or leave the lights on in rooms when we’re not in them!!! That’s me told!

No parent should be without Baby wipes. They’re even quite

good for getting biro pen off a leather couch!

Funniest comment A few years back we were on our way to see Sleeping Beauty in panto and when I asked Mya if she knew how you woke up Sleeping Beauty she replied “you rattle her in the chops”. [priceless! - Ed] Favourite family holiday spot We went to Costa Teguise in

Lanzarote for our holidays last year and it’s the best family holiday we’ve had so far. The best part of the holiday was the entertainment for the kids at night.

Best children’s book

The Gruffalo by Julia Donaldson

Best children DVD or video

My children love The Wizard of Oz

Most played with toys

Luca – ELC garage, Mya – anything arty

Biggest waste of money ELC doll’s house. It sits there and looks pretty!!  To find out about Kelly’s classes check on www. kmpilates.co.uk or www.mad4zumba.co.uk or call her on 07834 618157.

Issue 5 Families Fife | 7

Health and Wellbeing

Moving into the New Year S

ometimes the winter months bring a sinking feeling. Dark cold nights can tend to make us feel worn out and in need of rejuvenation. Christmas preparations and partying are great fun but can easily become overwhelming. Embracing a new year with this feeling of heaviness can be a challenge.

To combat such feelings and to get us off on the right foot for 2011, Families has consulted with local health and wellbeing practitioners to offer us advice on how best to treat ourselves and our children in the coming year.

Breathe

Over time tight muscles leave us emotionally drained and more prone to ‘snap’. Our breathing becomes shallow, and when something stressful happens we tighten up even further. Gentle stretching will release physical and emotional tension, and bring energy back to the body. This is why yoga is so effective - it works on the mind and the body, leaving us feeling better all round. Physically yoga works on the muscles, nerves, bones and even the connective tissue. Emotionally it works on the mind through energy channels of the body and releasing unnecessary tension.

Simple movements are modified to your needs, so you can bring your body into a better balance. When you’re tired it brings energy, and when you’re rushed it helps you slow down and relax.

Focus

How you move your body affects how you experience life. Try moving extra fast one day, or extra slow another and notice the effect.

The way you do yoga matters too. It’s no good running through yoga poses without awareness. By focusing on how your body feels and moves you can learn what is best for

As Bananarama said, ‘It ain’t what you do it’s the way that you do it!’ you at that time. Yoga should feel good and be a little challenging. As Bananarama said, ‘It ain’t what you do it’s the way that you do it!’

Whatever it is that is less that fantastic in your life, take a good look at it and ask yourself ‘What can I do to make this better?’‘How can I change and improve?’Take the challenge to

8 | Families Fife Issue 5

make your life better in 2011, be open enough to find the way.

And if the answer might be ‘yoga’ then feel free to call Susannah Dean. Susannah teaches various yoga classes in Dunfermline, Inverkeithing, South Queensferry & Edinburgh. Call for details 01383 413121, or see the website www.theyoga.co.uk.

Ward off the winter blues

Winter can be a truly miserable time for many of us. Let’s face it; the cold, wet & often grey days in Scotland drive most of us to the comfort of our sofa! However, we can take comfort from the fact that there is there is a physiological reason we feel this way. The lack of sunlight can leave us susceptible to a dose of winter blues and up to a third of us with Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). Low mood, tiredness, lack of motivation & reaching for comfort food are typical symptoms. But it needn’t be that way! By taking responsibility for our own health we can ward off the misery & and see ourselves through to spring. Simple strategies include: ÊÊ Try a light box* & increase your exposure to natural daylight ÊÊ Research points to exercise as the most effective natural anti-depressant ÊÊ Learn to say “no” (without guilt) & cut back on stresses during winter months ÊÊ Consider getting advice on herbs, diet & supplements. Learn to curb blood sugar fluctuations and boost your immunity. ÊÊ Accept what you cannot change. Remind yourself that there are physiological reasons why you feel like this. Don’t beat yourself up!

Orla Beaton is a Massage Specialist who offers clients advice on how to achieve a holistic balanced lifestyle as part of her service. See her website for more details. www.orla-beaton.co.uk.

Boosting immunity and beating colds

A fighting fit immune system is vital to good health. It’s a proven fact that the nutrients present in the foods we eat every day can really help to strengthen our body’s natural defences and give us unbeatable protection against infection, disease and allergy. Poor diet, an unhealthy lifestyle and a toxic environment can all compromise and weaken the immune system, leaving us prone to everything from common colds

to more serious infections. An impaired immune system is an ‘open-door’ for colds and viruses.

Ideally, you must address nutrition, sleep, exercise and stress issues the moment you first feel yourself getting a bug. This is when immune-enhancing strategies will be most effective. Good food choices include plenty of fresh vegetables and fruit. Most minerals can be found in seeds, nuts and green leafy vegetables.

Garlic – a potent antimicrobial that kills bacteria, viruses and fungi. Ideally this should be fresh, eaten raw and crushed with a spoon just before eating. Make sure you are drinking plenty of fresh filtered water – it will help with nose stuffiness and loosening secretions. Great foods for the immune system include: beetroot, shiitake mushrooms, avocado, curly kale, grapefruit, blueberry, brazil nuts, soya beans, green tea and garlic. Why not try a zingy carrot juice with four carrots, two green apples, half a lemon and a 3cm piece of fresh gingerblend in a juicer and enjoy!  Article kindly provided by Alisa V Wilson Naturopathic Nutritionist (Dip. Nutritional Therapy). For more information visit Alisa’s website or make an appointment at her clinic. For details www.nutritionalise.com * www.lumie.com is a good source of information on light boxes. It is worth consulting your GP before you start using one.

Further Information The SAD Association (SADA) - www.sada.org.uk Winter Blues: Everything You Need to Know to Beat SAD by Norman E. Rosenthal

Wellbeing for mums to be Specialist pregnancy therapies from Synergy

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Immunity boosters at a glance: Foods rich in vitamins A, B complex, C and E ÊÊFoods high in minerals including zinc, selenium and calcium ÊÊOmega 3 and 6 fatty acids, found in nuts, seeds and oily fish ÊÊProtein, found in lean meat, fish and pulses ÊÊFibre, found in grains, pulses, fruit and vegetables ÊÊVitamin D supplement (normally produced in the skin following exposure to the sun. Most people are deficient due to inadequate direct sun exposure).

Recent research is proving that deficient vitamin D levels will significantly impair the immune response and increase susceptibility to contracting colds, flu, and other respiratory infections. ÊÊRegular exercise ÊÊSpending time with friends ÊÊA positive outlook on life ÊÊAdequate sleep ÊÊYoga and Meditation

Immune enemies at a glance:

ÊÊA lack of vitamins and minerals ÊÊVitamin D+ deficiency ÊÊSugar ÊÊStress ÊÊSmoking ÊÊExcessive intake of alcohol ÊÊLack of exercise ÊÊLack of sleep. 

regnancy is a special time in a women’s life but it’s not all plain sailing. This brief period can feel a lot longer if it’s accompanied by pregnancy related symptoms and difficulties. To address this, a team of specialist practitioners in Glenrothes have got together to offer a unique service to support women before and after birth.

At Synergy Yoga Centre, qualified practitioners can treat common issues such as pelvic problems, fluid retention, sleep issues and stress. Mums to be can benefit from a wide range of treatments on offer including pregnancy massage, manual lymphatic drainage, reflexology, reiki, shiatsu, yoga for pregnancy and also birth and post natal mother & baby yoga. Benefits are immediate and include improved energy levels and a better night’s sleep, an easing up of morning sickness, improved circulation and fewer aches and pains. They can also help with post birth issues such as mastitis or simply offer emotional support in helping you bond with your baby. Synergy provides tailored packages to support your needs and those of your partner and baby at this special time and beyond. Gift vouchers and packages also available. 

For further information on how Synergy can support you through your pregnancy and after it see www. synergycentre.co.uk or call 01592 631672.

yoga

3 3

release & invigorate

classes & workshops pregnancy & birth baby & postnatal general mixed ability

3

Dunfermine Inverkeithing S. Queensferrry Edinburgh

Susannah Dean

IYT, BWY, YogaBirth, IAIM

01383 413121

www.theyoga.co.uk

Specialist Care for Pregnancy

Complementary Therapies Available Pre & Post Natally Massage

(inc Birth Partner Teaching)

MLD Shiatsu Yoga Gift Vouchers Available Synergy Natural Pregnancy Services

01592 631672 www.synergycentre.co.uk Issue 5 Families Fife | 9

Health and Wellbeing

Baby and infant wellbeing What is Tuina?

I

nfant Tuina is the paediatric form of Chinese massage which works on the same meridian systems as acupuncture. In China, where it has been used for thousands of years, Tuina is used instead of physiotherapy for adults. Paediatric Tuina is used for managing children’s health problems without the need for medication. Issues such as constipation sleep disturbance, teething discomfort, behavioural problems and low immunity can be addressed by the parents, with no need for medication.

Mariette Lobo from Health Food and More in Kirkcaldy, who has been practicing Tuina for over 10 years says she often just needs one session with parents to teach them the technique. “Having a one-to-one sessions with parents and their babies means you have the opportunity to really focus and get things right very quickly” says Mariette, who has seen good results using the therapy.

One mum, Lisa, who recently attended Mariette’s clinic, said “I found the techniques that Mariette taught me really easy to learn.

I didn’t have to buy any oils and I was taught how to massage through Theo’s clothing, which means it’s really convenient and can be done anywhere. Ten minutes is enough time to do a treatment with him.”

Mariette is developing Baby Tuina Classes and Workshops in Fife and Dundee and is interested in hearing from health professional as well as parents, who are interested in a drug free way of managing childhood health

issues. Mariette Lobo can be contacted by email on mfmlob@yahoo.com or at Health Food and More Tel: 01592 566446.

Baby massage with Claudia

Baby massage creates the time and space to rediscover the very essentials for happiness and wellbeing: love, time and nurturing touch. Vimala McClure has developed baby massage in the west and it has been practiced for thousands of years in other cultures. It provides you with the opportunity to relax, enjoy being with your baby and allows your baby to learn how to relax too. It can also be very effective in healing postnatal depression.

Baby massage stimulates oxytocin

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10 | Families Fife Issue 5

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production in both baby’ and parent’s bodies and this is a natural pain and stress relief-hormone. Oxytocin is also responsible for bonding. Bonding is a reciprocal dance between baby and parent or other significant person providing enhanced love, security, peace, warmth and joy.

This special and lasting relationship is experienced through eye contact, listening, touch and smell. Continuous eye contact during the massage allows you to watch your baby communicating his/her physical and mental needs and respond to them. Touch is a baby’s foremost art of communication.

During a baby massage course you learn the techniques to massage your baby safely and their benefits (improved sleep, better circulation, digestive system (colic) and respiration and it boosts the immune system).

Furthermore, a course allows you to learn how to adopt techniques to suit you and your baby as he or she grows. The small group allows you and your baby to make friends in a relaxed and supportive environment. The physical and mental health benefits have been well supported by scientific research or as one mum said: ‘To see the smile on my daughters face… was enough evidence for me about how much she enjoyed it and how it was so worthwhile.’  Claudia Oellers, Certified Infant Massage Instructor qualified with the International Association of Infant Massage (IAIM), Registered Nurse and mum. To find out more or book a course, contact Claudia on 01383/733 146 or check out the website: www.tinytendertouch.co.uk and www.iaim.org.uk.

Birth Baby and Beyond

Nappy New Year!

W

ith the festive period behind us, January is often the time when we resolve to improve our health, that of our babies and, hopefully, our bank balances!

One way it is easy to keep your bank balance that bit healthier is by using real nappies.

Sue Terras, Perth & Kinross Real Nappy Network Project Officer, said: “Current estimates are that you can save £500 a year if you make the switch from disposable to real nappies. If you have more than one child it can add up to a lot of money.

There are also claimed to be significant health benefits to using real nappies.

Disposables are made of superabsorbent chemicals, paper pulp and plastics, while real nappies are mostly made of natural fabrics.

One parent who found this to be true is Clare Damodaran, who used real nappies on her children. She said: “My youngest son’s eczema was pretty bad when he was a baby, covering his legs and body, and I found that when we used disposables, the chemicals really aggravated his skin, causing significant flare ups.”

Perth & Kinross Real Nappy Network (PKRNN) is a voluntary group that offers impartial advice and guidance on the different types of real nappies available.

The Network holds events throughout the year to promote the use of real nappies, including nappucinos and free monthly nappy

I demonstrations where you can see how real nappies have changed, becoming practical and effective choice for parents. PKRNN has a range of hire kits available for parents/carers to try real nappies at home and offers an incentive voucher of £50 to help you buy real nappies once you have tried the kit and chosen your nappies.  For more information about PKRNN and current real nappy incentives please contact 01738 476476 or nappies@pkc.gov.uk or find us on Facebook.

Tayside residents can contact the Dundee Real Nappy Campaign at real.nappies@ dundeecity.gov.uk and Fife residents can contact the Fife Real Nappy Network at info@frnn.org.uk . Each network runs different activities and incentives.

Calling expectant mums from Fife to Inverness

P

erth Baby Scan Studio is ideally situated in Perth to provide a 3D/4D scanning service to parents to be in Inverness, Aberdeen, Dundee, Stirling and Fife as well as to local Perth parents.

Dr Christie is the most experienced ultrasound baby scanning operator in Scotland and introduced the first routine 20 week anomaly scans into the UK NHS in 1974. You can be scanned from as early as 5 weeks into your pregnancy - a real bonus for anyone who just can’t wait to get their first glimpse of their child.

Dr Christie is clear in his aims ‘we aim to give parents the best possible value for the lowest possible cost’. One satisfied mum had this to say ‘the detail of the pictures was exceptional.

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  

    

KEREN BRYNES MACLEAN’S ADVICE & MORE COLUMN

We are on cloud 9 and the ability to see our baby made everything seem so real and gave us such reassurance and I cannot recommend you enough to prospective parents’.  To capture this time forever for your family contact Dr Christie, Babyscan Studio, Friarton Road, Perth Tel: 01738 472007 or see www.babyscanstudioperth.com

Perth & Kinross Real Nappy Network

t feels a long time since we really got to soak up the sun on our skin, which means our vitamin D levels are at their lowest ebb as we need sunshine to produce vitamin D in our own bodies.

Vitamin D is one of the best researched nutrients and has a key role to play in maintaining a healthy immune system. Deficiency is being indicated in a wide range of autoimmune inflammatory problems and it is well recognised that vitamin D helps our general resistance to viruses.

One of the easiest ways to give vitamin D to children is in a liquid supplement, either in combination with fish oil or as a stand alone supplement. Children can safely take a dose of 500 i.u daily and I usually recommend upwards of 800i.u daily for an adult. With immune problems being so common now it is a worthy investment to support the whole family with a tried and trusted supplement. 

Baby Scan Studio Perth 3D/4D Imaging which can be recorded on DVD & CD

Offering: 4impartial advice 4demonstrations 4nappucinos 4incentives

Contacts: 401738 476476 4nappies@pkc.gov.uk 4www.pkrnn.org.uk

Or look us up on Facebook: 4perthandkinrossrealnappynetwork

Prices start from only £25 Baby Scan Studio Perth Suite 1.4 King James VI Business Centre Friarton Road Perth PH2 8DG Tel.: 01738 472007 www.babyscanstudioperth.com

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Issue 5 Families Fife | 11

FeaturesEating Healthy

In celebration of…oats W

hat better time of year than a cold and frosty New Year to celebrate the humble oat? Oats are amazing. They can be eaten savoury wise or sweet wise. They are not fattening, not bad for your teeth, they are good for your digestion, they are low GI, they are wholegrain and even more remarkable still, they are cheap.

Most people, when you mention oats will naturally think of porridge and that may be something to do with the fact that around 47 million gallons of Quaker porridge alone is consumed each winter in the UK. But there are many other things you can do with the humble oat. Think flapjacks, granola, and crumble. Think Bircher muesli and oatcakes. Even beauty products such as natural body scrubs which are good for those with sensitive skin can be made from this largely unsung grain. Once synonymous with prison breakfasts, nowadays porridge is the breakfast choice of Madonna, Nelson Mandela, Nicole Kidman, David Cameron, Kylie Minogue and Bill Gates.

Porridge - How do you tak’ it?

Traditionally Scottish porridge features salt and water, rather than creamy milk and sugar confection we now cook up. The funny thing about porridge is that although it only really has 3 or 4 ingredients, everyone makes theirs differently. I prefer the oats, salt, milk and water approach whereas my husband is a water only man. Or is that in whisky? At some of the world’s top food spots the dish gets a glamour makeover, Gleneagles hotel serves theirs with cream and Drambuie-laced raspberries, whereas London’s Claridge’s offers theirs up with honey, maple syrup and chopped Medjool dates. That’s more of a pudding if you live in our neck of the woods I’d say. In the interests of good culinary journalism, I decided to call in the help of a local expert in the field to bring you a tried and tested method…

Delicious Fife Porridge as served at last year’s Big Tent ÊÊ ½ cup Hogarth’s Kelso Mill – Medium arse oatmeal mix Ê11/2 Ê cups cold water sea salt to taste – you will only need a very little You can soak the oatmeal overnight to

Like home cooking? ÊYou Ê may want to sample it for yourself or visiting friends by staying at www.ochilvilla.co.uk where comfort and comfort food is always on the menu.

12 | Families Fife Issue 5

dip into the cool milk to fill your spoon. That way the milk and porridge don’t mix – the porridge stays hot and the milk cool.

Optional toppings to try ÊÊ Raisins, chopped apricots, chopped bananas or apples, runny honey and plenty cool milk. make it quicker next morning. Older people swear that this improves the flavour. Put the oatmeal into the pan and add the water. Turn on the heat to medium and stir the oatmeal and water together. Keep stirring all the time till the mixture begins to thicken and bubble.

Turn down the heat to low till the porridge is just bubbling – keep stirring a little.

Some people like thick gooey porridge and others like it smooth and runnier. If the porridge is too thick for you stir in a more water till it is just right as Goldilocks would say.

Simmer for about 10 minutes – you need to keep stirring or it will stick or go into lumps.

At the last moment add a little Sea Salt to taste – you will only need a large pinch. A pinch is enough to be held between your forefinger and thumb. Ready.

Coarse Oakcakes

Ingredients to make 18 three inch rounds Ê425g Ê medium oatmeal Ê25g Ê course or pinhead oatmeal Ê50g Ê melted butter or 40g sunflower oil Ê6g Ê salt Ê4g Ê soft brown sugar, optional Ê180g Ê of boiling water Method – preparation 20 minutes, baking 40 minutes: Mix the melted butter through the medium and coarse oatmeal thoroughly.

Dissolve the salt and optionally the sugar in the boiling water then add to the oatmealto make a soft but not sticky mixture.

If the mixture is very sticky, just wait a couple of minutes.

A silicon ice-cream scoop is ideal for transferring the mixture to the baking tray.

Pat each scoopful into a 3 inch round approx ¼ inch thick on a lightly oiled tray.

Bake at 150°C for 60 minutes until the cakes no longer bend if you lift a corner. Do not let the cakes go brown because even slightly burnt oatmeal tastes horrible.

Serving: Oatcakes go well with soft cheeses with honey or with butter. If you are a complete Hedonist then go for goats’ cheese with a spoonful of raspberry jam on top. With oatmeal bought in bulk the cost of ingredients is approx 3p each oatcake.

Serve it traditionally

With a little dish or cold milk or cream at the side. Take a spoon of hot porridge and then

Bircher muesli - porridge Swiss style

Ê2oz Ê rolled oats (roughly 1/2 cup) Êtwo Ê dessert spoons mixed seeds, crushed in a grinder or using a mortar and pestle Ê50/50 Ê apple juice/water roughly 1/3 cup Ê1 Êsmall apple, or half a big one, grated.

Mix all the ingredients together, leave it to soak for a few minutes, serve with a wee dollop of plain yoghurt. If you have any, two or three rasps or a couple of strawberries sliced on top looks and tastes great.

Try a mixture of sunflower, pumpkin, sesame and linseed, or experiment to see what you find tasty. Then keep a jar of seeds ready mixed, then just crush what you need each time. Don’t forget that plain old toasted oats make a great topping to have with natural Greek yoghurt and honey - my kids love them and call them sprinkles.

Recipes kindly supplied by Colin Lindsay, master porridge maker from Freuchie and runner up in the 2010 Porridge championships. More recipes at www.breadinfife.co.uk

Lowdown on oats

ÊÊ A bowl of porridge will keep you full for 4 hours and 21 minutes, long enough to stop you snacking before lunch. ÊQuaker Ê oats factory in Cupar produces around 60,000 tonnes of oats a year ÊÊ Superstition claims that porridge should only be stirred using your right hand in a clockwise direction to ward off bad spirits ÊÊ Oats are Scotland’s best export, 55% of oats produced are for the export market (Europe and EMEA). ÊÊ Historically, porridge purists stir their porridge oats with a specifically designed wooden spoon, called a ‘spurtle’. 

For more recipes go to Families Fife website. www.familiesonline.co.uk/Locations/ Fife-Perth-Kinross

Porridge forum ÊLog Ê onto Families Fife and join the Porridge forum to tell us your definitive perfect porridge method.

Features Clubs and Classes Arty Classes

ÊDoodle Ê and Splat New term w/c 17th January for 10 weeks, with a weeks break w/c 14th Feb. Tue 9.30 Play Planet, Dalgety Bay (12.5yrs). Tue 10.30 Play Planet, Dalgety Bay (12-5 yrs) Wed 1.30 Duloch Library, Dunfermline (2-5 yrs) Thur 10.00 Dunnikier Scout Hall, Kirkcaldy (1-2.5yrs). 11.00 Dunnikier Scout Hall, Kirkcaldy (1-2-5yrs) 1.30 Duloch Library, Dunfermline (2-5 yrs) Fri 9.30 Our Lady of Lourdes Church Hall, Dunfermline (1-2.5yrs) 10.30 Our Lady of Lourdes Church Hall, Dunfermline (2-5 yrs. Details/Bookings please contact Lynda or Pamela on 07942825114 or doodle@doodleandsplat.co.uk or see www.doodleandsplat.co.uk

Baby Classes

ÊBaby Ê Sensory Classes - West Fife Monday 10.00 and 11.30 Lady of Lourdes Church Hall, Dunfermline. Wednesday 10.30 Cowdenbeath Community Centre Friday 10.30 Play Planet, Dalgety Bay Friday 1.45 Carnegie Hall, Dunfermline Tel: Claire Wilson 07749 468864 ÊBaby Ê Massage Classes Tiny Tender Touch.

Learn to massage your baby a skill you can use for life with your growing child. Tel: Claudia: 01383 733 146 or email: tinytendertouch@ gmail.com ÊBaby Ê & Toddler Reflexology Workshops Bookings for workshops now being taken Classes max 6 people per workshop| Contact Judith Spriggs: 07843 615220 or www.judithspriggsmobiletherapies.co.uk ÊLabour Ê Massage Tuition for Birth Partners Contact Orla Beaton on 07854 196 955 or email info@orla-beaton.co.uk. See www.orlabeaton.co.uk for more info. ÊWater Ê Babies Unique structured swimming programme for under 1s. Classes now running in Bowhill Swimming Pool, Cardenden (Wed) and Levenmouth Swimming Pool (Thurs).

Tel: 0131 554 6682 to book a class or www. waterbabies.co.uk or email: woggle@ waterbabies.co.uk ÊBaby Ê Yoga Get back into shape and let your baby enjoy some yoga too. Regular classes: South Queensferry on Wednesday am, Inverkeithing on Thursday am, Edinburgh on Thursday pm, New class in Dunfermline possible. Call Susannah on 01383 413121 for further details and qualifications, or visit the website: www.theyoga.co.uk

Exercise Classes: Mum & Baby

ÊBumpBabyBlitz Ê from PG Fitness. Meets every Wednesday at 10.30am at Little Peas Pram shop car park in Dunfermline to head off to the Tel: Paula 07922 568960 ÊMum Ê and child friendly classes at Mind and Body Studio, Kirkcaldy Choose from Body Pump Tuesdays @10.45am, Body Vive Weds @ 10.30am, Bums, Tums & Thighs Thurs @ 10.30am. Cost: £5.50 per class Feel free to bring your preschooler along to socialise while you work out. Tel: 01592 263700 or www.

News ÊÊ New Party Idea - Balls, Boots and Bibs football parties are for kids from aged 3-7 year olds. A party session lasts for up to 70 minutes during which the children will be coached by professional coaches, play fun games, practise skills, penalty shoot outs, and have a mini match. At the end of the session there is a presentation and each child receives a medal for being a good sport and a personalised certificate, which always guarantees happy faces. Balls Boots and Bibs coaches come fully SFA qualified and are bubbly, enthusiastic and fully football party trained hosts! t: 07766 833579 e:balls.bibs@googlemail.com ÊCalling Ê all Perth babies and toddlers Bring a grown up and come and play…

Jumping - Gyms Physical activity for 0-5yr Olds. Gives mums, dads, and carers an opportunity to chat and make new friends. Babies learn to crawl and explore, whilst toddlers are encouraged to socialise, share, jump and climb using soft play and lots more, all in a clean and safe environment. See listing for contacts. ÊKinross Ê mums and babies Learn baby massage techniques and meet new people. New 5 week programme of Baby massage classes starting w/c 10th January. Visit babymassageandyou. co.uk for more details or call Lisa on 01577 864428 mindandbodystudio.co.uk ÊYoga Ê for Pregnancy & Birth Prepare for a more relaxed pregnancy & an easier birth.

Enjoy your pregnancy with increased strength and flexibility. Bring your body into harmony to feel vital & relaxed. Regular classes in Inverkeithing on Tuesday eve, Dunfermline on Wednesday eve, Edinburgh on Thurs pm.

Call Susannah on 01383 413121 for further details and qualifications, or visit the website: www.theyoga.co.uk

or visit the website: www.theyoga.co.uk ÊZumba Ê For a full list of zumba classes with Kelly and collegues see list www.mad4zumba.co.uk t: 07834 618157 ÊLochore Ê Family Night Every Thursday night at Lochore Centre. From 5.30pm-7.00pm fun for all the family. Different activites every week.

Contact Nicole Nolan by email on nikki_ yvonne@hotmail.com

Music and movement classes

ÊJo Ê Jingles Mon Dalgety Bay Parish Church, Regents Way, Dalgety Bay 10.00-10.45 – mixed class, 11.00 – 11.40 – baby class.

Mon 1.45 - 2.30 – mixed class KIRKCALDY 2.40 – 3.25 – baby class Wed Jumpin Jacks, Kirkcaldy 11.45 -12.30 Mixed Class 1.30-2.10 Baby Class. Includes free entry to Jumpin Jacks.

Thur Duloch Library, Duloch, Dunfermline 9.45 - 10.30 – over 2 years, 10.45 – 11.30 – under 2 years, 11.40 – baby class 6 mths to walking FRi The Space Upstairs, High Street, Burntisland10.00 - 10.45 – mixed class, 10.50 – 11.25 – baby class Sat Duloch Library, Duloch, Dunfermline, 9.30 – 10.15 - over 2 years 10.30 – 11.15 – under 2s, 11.35 – baby class 6 mths to walking (new) Tel: 01383 734080 Email: fiona.jojingles@hotmail.co.uk Fiona ÊMusical Ê Steps Singing music, rhyme and movement for preschoolers. Classes across Fife. Mon AM Lomond Centre Glenrothes Tue AM St. Leonards Parish Church St Andrews & North Queensferry Community Centre Tue PM Swansacre Playgroup Kinross Wed AM Old Parish Church Cupar & St Andrews Erskine Church Dunfermline, Thur AM Collydean Neighbourhood Centre Glenrothes & Crossford Scout Hall Thur PM Free Church Kirkcaldy Fri AM Dance Bank, Dunfermline, Action Zone, Leven Fri PM Dance Bank, Dunfermline & Newton of Falkland Village Hall, Sat AM Queen Anne High School Dunfermline Tel: Inga 0845 224 0613 or www.musicalsteps.co.uk or for St Andrews classes tel: Cathy on 0845 838 2354 ÊTwinkle Ê Stars Pre- School Music Classes Fun educational classes for children aged 4

Exercise Classes

ÊÊ Pilates with Kelly McMahon www.kmpilates.co.uk for full list of classes. Or tel: 07834 618157 ÊPilates Ê @ Mind & Body Studio offers 6 Pilates Classes per week in Kirkcaldy. These include prenatal and post natal classes for mums who want to strengthen those abdominals in a sociable setting.

Cost: £6 per class. Tel: 01592 263700 or www.mindandbodystudio.co.uk ÊÊ Yoga Enhance your life with yoga: Increase energy levels, vitality, strength, flexibility... and your sense of calm! Regular classes in Inverkeithing on Tuesday eve, and Dunfermline on Wednesday eve. Call Susannah on 01383 413121 for further details and qualifications,

Issue 5 Families Fife | 13

Features Out and About months to 5 years. Tuesday: Duloch Leisure Centre 1.25pm 4 months - 18 months 2pm 18 months - 3 years Thursday: Dalgety Bay Leisure Centre-1.20pm 4- 18 months 1.55pm 18 months- 3years Friday: Duloch Leisure Centre - 11.10pm 3-5 years 1.15pm 4 - 18 months 1.50pm 3-5 years. For more info Tel Morag 01383 622315 email mo1906@ live.co.uk ÊBuckhaven Ê Brass Beginnings College Street, Buckhaven. Wednesday 5.45 pm – 7.15 pm. Contact: Brian Hutchison 01333 351231 or 07800771929 or e-mail brian_hutch1991@ yahoo.co.uk. Please check out our page on Buckhaven and Methil Miners Band’s website www.buckhavenband.com ÊJumping Ê - Gyms Perth Physical activity For 0-5yrs Thurs 9.30. 11am @ Tulloch Community Centre,Tulloch Terrace Perth.

Under 1s free 1yr+ £3.50 includes squash & biscuit. Call Marion On 01738 564348

Dance Classes

ÊThe Ê Dance Bank Dunfermline, Dalgety Bay, Kelty, Perth, Kinross. Children’s ballet, tap, bellydance, tribal classes. Tel: Rhona 01383 872132 or www.dancebank.co.uk Ê1st Ê Steps Under 5’s dance & movement for under 5s Fun dancing, singing, action, stories, rhymes, play and movement classes for babies and young children. Classes in Kirkcaldy, Burntisland, Dalgety Bay, Perth, Blairglowrie and Dunfermline. Contact Info E: elizabeth_dancedaze@hotmail.co.uk or susan_dancedaze@hotmail.com ÊSaut Ê Burgh Highland Dancers Monday: Dysart Community Hall, West Port, Dysart, KY1 2TD. 5.00 - 5.30 - Tinies/Beginners Class; 5.30 6.30 - Bronze upwards; 6.00 - 7.00 - gold ÊAllana Ê Brown School of Highland Dancing Music Institute, Dunfermline. Tel: 01383 734606 All levels of Highland dancing from age 4 upwards. 

January

1st – 8th PERTH Aladdin A traditional family, Perth Theatre 01738 621031 www.horsecross.co.uk 2nd COWDENBEATH Irn-Bru Scottish Football League Division 1 Tel: for info and other fixtures 01383 610166.

E-mail: office@cowdenbeathfc.com

Catherine Poole Suat Eman - FreeDigitalPhotos.net

Virtual Assistant For help with secretarial support on a ‘pay as you go’ basis catherine@catherinepoole.co.uk

www.catherinepoole.co.uk

07961 067062

14 | Families Fife Issue 5

2nd KIRKCALDY Irn-Bru Scottish Football League Division 1 Tel: 01592 263514.

E-mail: office@raithroversfc.com www.raithroversfc.com

4th – 8th KIRKCALDY Aladdin A Sparkling Family Pantomime The Adam Smith Theatre 01592 583302 www.attfife.org.uk

3rd KIRKCALDY Northern Ice Hocke League Tel: For info and further games 01592 595100 www.fifeflyers.co.uk

January Farmers Markets in Fife 8th DUNFERMLINE Glen Gates, Bridge St. 15th CUPAR Crossgate 29th KIRKCALDY The Town Square www.fifefarmersmarket.co.uk 15th DUNFERMLINE Irn-Bru Scottish Football League Division 1 Tel: 01383 724295 for info and other fixtures E-mail: enquiries@dafc.co.uk. www.dafc.co.uk

Dobbies Little Seedlings Club Sunday 9th January and Sunday 6th February, 10am, 11.30am, 1.30pm, 2.30pm. Come along for monthly handson workshops to learn fun facts about plants, wildlife and the environment.

Open to children aged between 4 and 10 years. Children must be accompanied by an adult for the duration of the workshop.

For further details or to book your place, please contact Dobbies Garden World Dunfermline on 01383 842757.

29th-01st KIRKCALDY Kirkcaldy Art Club 50th Anniversary Show Tel: 01592 583213 www.fifedirect.org.uk/museums

February

Farmers Markets in Fife 5th ST ANDREWS Argyle St Car Park 12th DUNFERMLINE Glen Gates, Bridge St. 19th CUPAR Crossgate 26th KIRKCALDY The Town Square www.fifefarmersmarket.co.uk

Features 5th DUNFERMLINE Dunfermline CITY Hockey Club vs Inverleith Hockey Club For info and other matches call www. dunfermlinecityhc.com 24th – 26th Feb The Wizard of Oz GLENROTHES , Tel:01592611101 E-mail: boxoffice.rotheshalls@attfife.org.uk www.attfife.org.uk Snowdrops Festival, 1st February to 13th March 2011. Celebrating the arrival of snowdrops, one of the first signs that spring has sprung. Events at several woodlands across Fife including Falkland Centre for Stewardship, Cambo Estate and Valleyfield Woodland Park.

1st February to 13th March 2011 Cambo Estate St Andrews SNOWDROP SPECTACULAR 70 acres woodland carpeted in snowdrops, snowflakes and aconites follow the burn to the shore! Over 300 different varieties of specialist snowdrops to view 01333 450054. www.camboestate.com 11th-27th SNOWDROPS BY STARLIGHT Cambo Estate St Andrews Enjoy the famous

Cambo Snowdrops as never seen before!

Walk through the snowdrop woods unde a starlit sky in a magical wonderland created by light and sound.

01333 450054 www.camboestate.com

Families 5 Minute Qs F

uelled by the desire to fit work round her family life, Catherine Poole, mum of 2 is launching her new Virtual Assistant service in January 2011. With an impressive list of positions under her belt including positions at Dundee & Napier University, and administrative and legal secretarial support at Martin Currie and Shepherd and Wedderburn LLP she is well equipped to handle whatever is thrown at her. Catherine tells us more…

Q. A.

So, what is a virtual assistant?

A virtual assistant (VA for short) is an independent contractor who works from her own office space, providing administrative and secretarial support to busy people on a ‘pay as you go’ basis. This means a VA can be booked as and when required on a remote basis without all the hassles and overheads that come with hiring full time support and you only pay for the time worked.

Q. A.

What sort of clients would

benefit from the services of a virtual assistant?

Any type of organisation could benefit, but particularly those who don’t need or can’t afford full time support such as small businesses, sole traders and partnerships, ‘mumpreneurs’ or charities.

It would also be useful for adhoc holiday and sickness cover as you just ‘pick up and put down’ your VA as needed, whether it be for a few hours a week or only a couple of hours a month.

Q. A.

Do you have to be face to face with clients or is it all remote?

The work itself tends to be done on a remote basis, but if a client is local to me it would obviously make sense to meet up as and when necessary.

Catherine is real however and loves nothing more than to spend time with her kids and husband, sing with the Dunfermline Choral Union and even have the occasional night out. To find out more about how Catherine can cure your administrative headaches, call 07961 067062 or visit www.catherinepoole.co.uk .

Rates start at £20 per hour. 

Saturday 12th and Sunday 13th Children’s Creative Workshops Falkland Centre for Stewardship Snowdrop Sculptures – . For ages 8+On the first day we’ll be getting messy with paper mache and forming the shape of our snowdrop sculptures We’ll leave our creations to dry for a day then come back the next day to get painting. You get to take your sculpture away with you. Numbers limited so booking in advance required. 01337 858838 www.centreforstewardship.org.uk Sunday 27th Children’s Baking Classes For ages 8+ Cheered on and helped by one of Fife’s most enthusiastic bread makers Colin Lindsay, you will mix, shape, bake and eat lovely crunchy breadsticks (in the shape of snowdrops!) and you will also bake super seasonal muffins. We are holding two sessions, 10am to 1pm and 2pm to 5pm. Ages 8+. Numbers limited so booking in advance required. No experience required! 01337 858838 . www.centreforstewardship.org.uk Sunday 27th Family Baking Classes For ages 8+. This is an opportunity for parents and children to bake together, no experience required, cheered on and helped by one of Fife’s most enthusiastic bread makers, Colin Lindsay, you will mix, shape, bake and eat lovely crunchy breadsticks, and will also bake super seasonal muffins. We will also go for a walk through the Estate to see the snowdrops while we wait for the dough to rise. Numbers limited so booking in advance essential.

01337 858838 www.centreforstewardship.org.uk Saturday 19th 10am to 4pm Family Drop in Arts and Crafts Workshops Come along and try your hand at a range of snowdrop related craft including creating snowdrop gardens, willow weaving and even knitting some snowdrops. 01337 858838 www.centreforstewardship.org.uk

Issue 5 Families Fife | 15

NHS

Attention all pregnant women!

How do we know baby is getting enough?

NHS

Baby swallows rythmically Wakens for feeds Contented look

come to an

INFANT FEEDING TALK Ask your midwife or health visitor

16 | Families Fife Issue 5

or contact your local hospital clinic

Wet and dirty nappies