Families Fife Issue 11 Jan - Feb 2012

FREE Issue 11 Jan/Feb 2012

Inco rporating Perth & Kinross

The really useful magazine for families in the Fife region:

A healthy happy 2012

• Choosing a nursery • Health and wellbeing for 2012 • Interview with Sir Steve Redgrave

Families Fife, Perth and Kinross  editor@familiesfife.co.uk

Contents The smart money mum A new year budget - a new you!

Nicole Diamond is founder of The Jack & Jill Market, the quality nearly-new baby & children’s market where Smart Mums Sell and Save.

I

t’s 2012 and the year of the Olympics. Will you win the gold medal for being a champion savvy saver this year? Here are few New Years tips to help you cross the finishing line first. ÊÊ BOOK NOW. If you’re lucky enough to be planning a trip abroad in the summer, book as far ahead as you can for up to 70% flight and rail savings.

And, to ease the pocketmoney blow when you get there, start a family savings jar now just for holiday spending. 30 weeks until your holiday, at £10 per week that’s £300 in the jar. ÊÊ WOOLLY SAVINGS. The ever-climbing price of fuel means it could be cheaper to buy good quality 100% wool thermals which trap a layer of heat to the body, allowing you to turn your radiators down now and completely off my mid-march, late Arctic blasts permitting. ÊÊ LOSE WEIGHT. If slimming

is on your list of New Years’ Resolutions, then it could come with a cash bonus. Spending just £5 a day on lunch while at work, or out and about, adds up to a whopping £1715 per working year. Make your own sandwiches for pennies, guaranteeing a healthy choice and big savings on ready-made sandwiches full of mayonnaise that sell for £3 or more. ÊÊ STOP SMOKING. The ultimate New Year’s resolution is also the biggest money saver.

At £7 a pack, quitting a 20-aday habit will put an amazing £4000 back in your pocket over the course of 2012. ÊÊ PLAN AHEAD. How often do you get to the weekends with nothing scheduled and end up spending far too much on pricey days out with hard-to-please youngsters?

Set aside time during the week to browse what’s-on listings [check www.familiesfife/ whatson - ed!] and find plenty of fab FREE events. Pack a lunch and you could be enjoying family days out during the year for virtually nothing!

Wishing you a supersaver year.  The Smart Money Mum is a trademark of the Jack & Jill Market.

Where Smart Mums Sell & Save

The Jack & Jill Market Over 40 stalls at each market bursting with quality nearly-new baby & kids clothes, toys, buggies, cots, car seats, and all the rest (0-9 yrs).

0 -9 Indoor markets. yea r s Entry £1 adults.

Dunfermline The Vine Venue Perth

North Inch Campus

Sat 4 Feb Sat 25 Feb

All markets 10.30 am—1.30 pm

www.JackandJillMarket.co.uk

2 | Families Fife Issue 11

 Call Susan on 07734 289 143 to advertise here

Inco rporating Perth & Kinross 3 Welcome to Families Fife 4 Time for nursery Families offers pre-school parents tips on choosing the right nursery 6 Education and childcare A pilot outdoor out of school club evaluated 8 New Year – new you?

Our guide to keeping focused on our good intentions 11 Birth, Baby and beyond The Synergy Centre discusses yoga as a useful tool to get birth fit 12 Interview Sir Steve Redgrave discusses his Great Olympic Moments 13 Book review 14 Clubs and Classes update 15 Out and About What’s on guide and listings

Contact us

Families Fife, PO Box 29205, Dunfermline, KY12 2BL Editor: Susan Kirkwood, editor@familiesfife.co.uk Tel: 01383 735938 or 07734 289 143 Design: White Creative www.whitecreativecompany.co.uk 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.

NEXT ISSUE: march-april Booking deadline: 31 January. Out 01 March 2012 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.

www.familiesfife.co.uk

H

appy New Year to all our readers. This issue is full of the joys of the New Year and hope for 2012. Will we be better this year? A self-confessed cynic, I think not, but for one, I hope to never give up trying! There is no want of inspiration in this slim volume for those that do want to get healthier this year.

There’s advice from local health and wellbeing professionals on how to set and KEEP to our goals this year. If you’re looking for a role model, you could do worse that look to our interview with Sir Steve Redgrave - okay Olympic greatness may be too late for most readers but it is surely in sight for our talented children?

To be great you have to think great. I am sure that you can spot the homespun quote there! And note this. If you can resolve to do nothing more than simple WALK more, then you will already be affecting a positive change.

Susan Kirkwood, Editor

Est. 1997

What is Make your move Kirkcaldy?

M

ake your move Kirkcaldy is a new initiative to get residents and visitors to Kirkcaldy to make more use of their bikes and indeed their feet as a first choice for getting around town. Bike try outs, cycle training and bike sales are all part of the busy programme for 2012 to get more of us cycling and walking more often. The benefits? A fitter you, fitter children, cost savings and a cleaner, safer environment just for starters.

Fife Council and UK charity Sustrans are working together to deliver the Make your move Kirkcaldy project, which is also supported by the Scottish Government.

A key part of the project is the development of a network of routes for both cyclists and pedestrians.

Recent improvements include new cycle routes at Dunnikier Way and Oriel Road.

To help you find these routes, a new map and information leaflet has also been developed which is available on the project website at www.makeyourmovekirkcaldy.co.uk.

There is also a focus on schools, with a cycling officer delivering a range of inspiring activities in nine Kirkcaldy schools, as part of Sustrans work to encourage children to cycle, and building on existing work by Fife Council. Bike checks and

repairs have already been popular at schools – at one primary school, 90 bikes were brought in on one day in mid November!

During 2011, Make your move Kirkcaldy ran a series of successful events with activities for all ages like bike try-outs and stunt displays, finishing with a fun day in Ravenscraig Park in September which attracted more than 800 visitors. These events were also a great chance to give out information and get feedback.

More fun events like this are planned for 2012, along with other activities to help you to be more active. These will include cycle training to build confidence, and bike sales in Kirkcaldy offering low cost, high quality bikes for adults and children. There will also be a series of led cycle rides, called CycleStart, for people who are new to cycling or haven’t been on a bike for a while.

You can find more information about the project at www.makeyourmovekirkcaldy.co.uk, or by calling the Project Co-ordinator, Michael Nimmo, on 08451 555 555 ext 477009. If you’re interested in any of the activities above, please feel free to get in touch!

Families will be keeping you posted on up and coming events so look out for our ads and updates in the magazine or our website and facebook. 

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Philip Taylor, Dalgety Bay ([WHQVLRQV )LWWHG .LWFKHQV X39& :LQGRZV 'RRUV X39& 5RRÁLQH )DVFLD /DPLQDWH )ORRULQJ 6WDLUFDVHV 7LPEHU 'HFNLQJ 5HQRYDWLRQV )DFLQJV 6NLUWLQJV %DWKURRPV

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Childcare and nursery feature

S

o, your little one’s growing up and it’s time to start thinking about childcare. There are many options, childminders, nursery school, nannies and of course family. Here, Families looks at nurseries and attempts to guide you through the maze.

Studies have shown that children who attend nurseries can be more confident and often go on to do better at school. A good nursery will prepare your child for those first few nerve-wracking weeks at school and help them with the transition from the home environment to that of the school.

Private day nurseries, local authority nursery schools, community nurseries and workplace nurseries are all options and navigating your way through them can be daunting. The choice ultimately, will largely be dictated by whether mum, dad or both parents work and the availability or proximity of willing grandparents. ÊÊ Day private nurseries Open usually 8am-6pm, day nurseries are a good option for working parents as many will take babies from as early as 6 weeks. Another advantage is the year-round care they offer, and you know your child is being looked after by qualified staff who won’t become ill and need time off work – at least not all at the same time! Your child’s day follows structured activities interspersed with naps, meals and outdoor play. Day nurseries offer continuity of care and your child doesn’t have to stay all day – many day nurseries will do half days or you can collect early.

Time for nursery

ÊÊSchool Nursery State nursery schools are often sessions. They usually take children from 3 years and provide a grounding for starting school, teaching letters, shapes, numbers and sometimes even early-stage reading. Nursery schools give children the opportunity to make friends of the same age as most require children to do either 5 morning or 5 afternoon sessions, so the same children will be there everyday.

Top Ten Checklist 1 Start early – it is fine to sign your bump up for a nursery if you feel it’s the right choice.

2 Near or far? There’s a lot to be said for a nursery around the corner from home or near your workplace.

3 Does the nursery have a welcoming, happy, cheerful atmosphere? Gut instinct is a powerful tool.

4 Consider your child’s routine. If your son sleeps from 1-3pm then forget an afternoon place.

5 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.

6 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 7 If you want a handover with your child’s key worker at the end of each day, make sure that your nursery is happy to do this.

8 Read the latest OFSTED report - a great way for detailed info on everything from quality of care and education to cleanliness and opportunities for play.

Although all nurseries follow OFSTED guidelines, there’s room for interpretation!

9 Is the nursery flexible if you need to swap a day or add an afternoon. You’ll soon discover how useful this can be.

10 For advice on costs and paying for childcare see this website www.payingforchildcare.org.uk

They are often smaller scale with a personal touch, too, but perhaps are not so convenient for working families, unless grandparents are able to help with pick up and lunch for part time working parents. ÊÊ 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. 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. ÊÊ Workplace nurseries Much sought-after, workplace nurseries provide full or part-time childcare, but think about the location. If your journey to work is an hour long your toddler may not appreciate the trip home at 6pm and a nursery around the corner from home might be a better idea.

NURSERY CHECKLIST

Once you’ve found a nursery, go and have a look. Go back again if you’re still not sure. A good nursery will welcome a visit and might even let your child join in. By watching the other children you’ll get a good idea of whether it's the right environment for your child.

MORE INFORMATION

ÊÊ For local nurseries and links to Ofsted

4 | Families Fife Issue 11

Lilliput Nursery, Dunfermline

L

ocated in the heart of Dunfermline, Lilliput Day Nursery offers that home from home feel in a carefully designed and cosy environment. The nursery is based over two levels of a large town house having generously resourced play rooms for each age group of children with great pick up and drop off space within Canmore Street car park with easy links for public transport.

As the name suggests Lilliput Nursery is a treasure trove of excitement and fun specially designed for little people from birth to five years of age. Children attending the nursery enjoy a wide range of learning opportunities delivered in a fun, friendly and caring environment. A strong emphasis is placed on quality of care and early year’s education and the children enjoy regular outings to the Library and walks to the Glen.

The Nursery is run by a staff team who are both passionate and committed.

Michelle the nursery manager is very proud of her team who value and respect children as individuals and work closely with parents to ensure every families experience at the nursery is a happy one. Fresh nutritious and delicious meals are prepared and served daily on site and the nursery is an ECO schools centre where the children are encouraged to play and take active part in the recycling of waste materials. 

If you would like more information about Lillput Nursery then please call 01383 626 261 or visit the nurseries website www.lilliput-nursery.co.uk and download a prospectus today.

See advert on back page.

Lauriston Nursery, Dunfermline

L

auriston Nursery is a purpose built facility which was designed with children’s needs in mind. It boasts gym hall facilities and a large secure garden with climbing frames, swings, wildlife and vegetable gardens.

The nursery follows the pre-birth to three curriculum and curriculum for excellence, providing a child-centred environment for children, developing their interests and ideas.

Children are actively involved in planning and PLP building.

The pre-school children take part in forest kindergarten outings and have a yearly trip based on topic or plans in the room. The nursery has a friendly parents committee up and running and welcomes parents to parent play sessions once a month so parents can see their child in the nursery setting.

Parents will be pleased to know that

Pre-school grant funding is available and that there is a large accessible car park for ease of drop off and collection. The nursery offers commuting parents easy access to M90 motorway and Dunfermline rail link.

CCTV indoors and outdoors is in place for childrens’ safety and parents peace of mind.

The nursery provides home cooked meals and milk time and following the NHS child smile programme. The nursery is also pleased to take part in the eco school initiative organisation: monthly litter picking outings and weekly recycling, and they are going for their green flag next year. They hope to get the children and parents involved in the making of their new greenhouse using recycled plastic bottles. Watch this space for updates.  Lauriston Nursery – see ad on back page for details. Call 01383 741900.

Building Blocks Nursery, Rosyth

An Early Start

B

uilding Blocks Childcare Nursery in Rosyth works closely with the parents of their children to ensure that each parent and child’s needs are catered for in the best possible manner. A family run, purpose built nursery there is no better place to start your child’s social and educational path. The early opening was adapted to meet the demand of many parents who travel to work. They can rest assured their children are in a safe, secure and in a friendly environment from as early as 7am in the morning.

Laura Taylor, Owner & Manager of Building Blocks states “the difference here is our commitment to each child’s future and the peace of mind we are able to give the parents. We are here for them when the demands of the workplace mean longer hours for childcare”.

With experienced, friendly and committed staff and innovative learning programmes Building Blocks provide the children with an unsurpassed learning experience. At Building Blocks Nursery an early start in your working day is an early educational start in your child’s play! 

Call now to arrange your visit 01383 419319.

reports go to www.findmyschool.co.uk ÊÊ The National Day Nurseries Association provides information for parents. Search for NDNA member nurseries at www.ndna.org.uk/parents ÊÊ The Preschool Alliance www.pre-school.org.uk ÊÊ SureStart has information about childcare options, tax credits and free nursery places, plus links to the Children’s Information Service www.surestart.gov.uk ÊÊ www.childcarelink.gov.uk has contact details for registered childcare providers ÊÊ OFSTED www.ofsted.gov.uk ÊÊ For more articles on choosing a nursery, early learning, independent or chain of nurseries, childminder versus nursery, Montessori education and more visit www. familie sonline.co.uk 

Issue 11 Families Fife | 5

Education and Childcare

Donaldson’s School information day W

hen your child is diagnosed with communication difficulties or a syndrome that will affect their learning, finding the right nursery or school is essential.

Donaldson’s School in Linlithgow educates and cares for children who are deaf or have communication difficulties, including many who have a diagnosed syndrome or condition. As the school is a Grant Aided Special School, pupils are referred by their local authority, funded jointly with the Scottish Government. The school offers full support and guidance throughout the application process.

Many of the pupils have a diagnosed syndrome (including Waardenburg, Feingold) but Donaldson’s also caters for children who have Profound and Multiple Learning Difficulties. This includes children with a range of conditions including Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Smith Magenis Syndrome (SMS), Angelman Syndrome (AS), Severe Language Difficulties, Social and Communication Difficulties and Verbal Dyspraxia.

Ensuring the right education for each child is important and the school carries out assessments to provide an individual programme tailored for each pupil by our interdisciplinary team of expert staff. 

The Sunshine Nursery Kirkcaldy & Glenrothes

T

he Sunshine Nursery has come of age! Set up in Kirkcaldy in November 1990, the Sunshine Nursery has just turned 21! It’s main concern however is the care of its pre-school children and the nursery prides itself in its consistently high ratings in its Care Commission inspections – Glenrothes was recently awarded 5 plusses with no recommendations for change. Over the two sites in Kirkcaldy and Glenrothes, the nursery takes care of over 80 children in 7 rooms which are split into different age groups. Linda Frazer explains the nursery’s overriding policy ‘We believe that pre-school children need to be looked after in small groups as this is the best way to support a child through their nursery journey helping them to become inquisitive and active learners’. You can contact the nursery on 01592 641 296. See advert for information. 

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6 | Families Fife Issue 11

Donaldson’s School is holding an Information Day for parents and professionals on Saturday 25 February from 9.30am – 1.30pm, you will have the opportunity to ask questions and have a tour of the school.

Donaldson’s School Information Day A day for parents and professionals Saturday 25 February 2012, 9:30am - 1:30pm

Situated in Linlithgow, Donaldson’s School is Scotland’s national school for pupils who are deaf or have communication difficulties.

Our Information Day provides a perfect opportunity to find out more about our wide range of services and offers professionals an opportunity for CPD: Meet our specialist staff team and learn about our unique environment of inclusive communication Attend workshops covering topics including Educational Audiology, Speech & Language Therapy and Learning and Teaching

 Call Susan on 07734 289 143 to advertise here

Find out about our flexible range of places, funded by local authorities including nursery, primary, secondary and residential Enjoy a full tour of the modern facilities and refreshments

Please register your place in advance by contacting Kim Pedder, School Secretary, on 01506 841900 or email kpedder@donaldsons.org.uk

www.donaldsons.org.uk

Preston Road, Linlithgow, West Lothian EH49 6HZ Donaldson’s is a Grant Aided Special School support by the Scottish Government. Donaldson’s (Governors of Donaldson’s Trust) is a registered charity (SCO17417)

The Play Outdoors Project I

n the summer of 2011, Fife Childcare and Early Years Services piloted an Out of School Care Project that was run entirely out of doors. The aim was to explore the practical possibilities of implementing an exciting, challenging opportunity for children to enjoy the kind of unstructured free play activities that it is increasingly difficult for them to access in our modern ‘risk averse’ society. Put simply, the aim was to allow children ‘out to play’. Ian Hanton from the Early Years Service describes the objectives and outcomes of the pilot.

‘We believed that the tide of opinion was turning and that we could join the increasing numbers of people who know that there is a real danger of children becoming ‘cotton wool kids’ noted Ian, ‘In order to promote their development fully, children need opportunities to take risks and face challenges, to develop their physical skills, to learn about the natural world and to take the initiative in deciding what activities they wish to pursue’.

Hence our project, which was held at Fordell Firs, set out to offer opportunities for an exciting and challenging range of outdoor play experiences to children aged from 4 to 9. The aims were to enable the children to develop their confidence and new skills in a caring, supportive and rich learning environment; to improve the quality of life through play for children living in identified disadvantaged areas of Fife; and to provide enhanced support to families through respite care.

Further objectives included providing opportunities for self-directed free play out of doors, and supporting such free play with experienced and qualified staff. The children were able to learn about the natural environment and at the same time staff were identifying and addressing children’s individual care and learning needs.

‘Our initial evaluation demonstrates

clearly that the outcomes for children were very positive’ says Ian. ‘There were three groups of children, attending for one week at a time and even in that short period great progress was made. As predicted the children loved climbing trees, playing in the mud, den building, going down the caves, sawing wood, fire building and the shared experience of preparing and cooking their own fresh

 Call Susan on 07734 289 143 to advertise here

food on wood burning stoves. They loved playing in the rain – and they were healthily tired out at the end of every day!’

The staff reported, that after some initial nervousness, they too enjoyed themselves and were equally tired out at the end of the day! Staff reported that they saw the benefits to children in action and they too valued spending so much time out of doors.

There were some practical problems to be overcome but there were few problems with the children and any that did arise were solved together. Good relationships were made and staff noted that children took the positive experiences that they had enjoyed back into the regular childcare provision.

The benefits of playing outdoors are clear and wide-ranging. Fife Childcare and Early Years Services are developing and organising opportunities for children in the outdoors for next year. If you would like your children to spend their holidays playing outside, enjoying activities like those described above then please let us know.  Email us at Fife.CHIS@fife.gov.uk

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

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

We can advise on: O Childcare

costs and how to pay

O Options

- nursery or childminder O Availability

It's our job to get you to yours. And get you a good sleep the night before.

Call us on: 01592 583146 Email: fife.chis@fife.gov.uk or visit www.scottishchildcare.gov.uk

Issue 11 Families Fife | 7

Health and wellbeing

New year - new you?

Our guide to setting and keeping your goals for 2012

S

o here we are - January 2012. How are the ‘new year/new you’ plans going? If you are like most people they probably only lasted a few days. Statistics suggest that 93% of people who set resolutions did so to improve fitness or lose weight but only 50% stick with it beyond January.

So, why does this happen? Why is it so hard to stick to good habits and so easy to fall back into bad? Families has brought together local practitioners in the fields of sports massage, yoga and nutrition to look at just why our best intentions fail at the first hurdle – usually before the snow has melted in January”.

Don’t rush it

Yoga

At New Year the phrase ‘new year new you’ often springs to mind as we resolve to be better, fitter, faster, kinder. Whilst these are valiant goals, they can get in the way of true transformation. True transformation is kind and slow. It involves allowing the muscles, and fascia to relax and find a new balance. As the body learns new positions and ways to hold itself the mind gradually changes too.

This can’t be done by pushing and forcing your body into shapes.

The most fascinating part of yoga is the link between the mind and the body – how our simple postures and bodily habits affect our emotions and where we find ourselves in our lives. Phrases we use in daily life remind us of how we use our bodies affects our lives ‘he had heart in his boots’ and ‘stand on your own 2 feet’. To accept where you are right

Welcome the new year

Firstly: don’t let the weather stop you, celebrate the day as it is. Stand outside, feet

“True transformation is kind and slow”

3yoga3 stretch & relax

alive, healthier body and a calmer mind – come to yoga. It may sound far-fetched to find love by ‘opening your heart’ or a new home by ‘getting better grounded’, but this is the potential of healing transformative yoga.

now is the first step – to look honestly and clearly. To dream to a more comfortable, more enlivened future comes next.

Choosing how to move, whether you want a calmer mind or a fitter body is how the transformation can begin. If you want popping muscles go to the gym. If you want a more

close but not necessarily touching, both feet coming straight forwards. Feel you can lift your ribs up whilst keeping your back curves the same. Lift your arms and lift your heart.

Open yourself to really enjoy a big fresh breath of cool air. Look up into the clouds and the future. Imagine your mind and life

3 pregnancy & birth baby & postnatal general mixed ability

3

Dunfermine, Inverkeithing S. Queensferrry & Edinburgh Susannah Dean IYT, BWY, YogaBirth, IAIM 01383 413121

3

3

www.theyoga.co.uk

8 | Families Fife Issue 11

Yoga for birth

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ogaBirth classes offer mind-body exercise for pregnancy. Poses come from traditional yoga, an understanding of pregnancy and birth research. Back pain and anxiety can be reduced, posture and wellbeing can be improved as well as preparing for your birth. How you use your body in pregnancy has an affect on your birth, by learning yoga you will learn how to position your baby so birth is easier, as well as learning pain relieving breathing.

Susannah Dean has been teaching yoga for pregnancy since 2007, To hear more about what people have said about her classes  [http://www.theyoga.co.uk/2.htm], to hear about Susannah’s local classes

nutrient deficient. Indeed it would appear that cases of rickets in children are increasing, which is a direct result of vitamin D deficiency.

So how can we ensure we are providing proper nourishment for our children?

It is reassuring to know that by simply providing a sensible wholefood diet and supporting our children with essential, goodquality nutritional supplements, we are able to encourage and maintain the best possible growth and development.

expanding so that your horizons can broaden to encompass your dreams.  Welcome 2012 and the changes it will bring.  Susannah Dean is qualified with Yogabirth, Inner Yoga Trust, British Wheel of Yoga and IAIM. She runs classes for adults, pregnancy/ birth, and postnatal/baby. For detail call 01383 413121 or visit www.theyoga.co.uk

Get into good nutritional habits

Ă&#x160;Ă&#x160; The importance of getting nutrition right in young children Nutrition in the first few years of a childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s life will have a direct impact not only on the childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s growth, but also on energy levels, mood, resistance to disease and the ability to concentrate and do well at school. It is of paramount importance then, that children receive the best possible nutrition in these early years, to sow the early seeds of good health.

As if this wasnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t daunting and complex enough for parents, they also have to contend with the constant conflicting good food advice and barrage of junk food promotions which threaten to corrupt sound dietary choices. Meanwhile, an increasing body of research, such as that on vitamin D, is telling us that despite having more food choices than ever before, our children may still be

Simple rules to remember: Ă&#x160;Ă&#x160; Make every meal and snack count towards nourishing your child. Choose fresh, whole foods every time. Ă&#x160;Ă&#x160; Balance blood sugar levels â&#x20AC;&#x201C; avoid all forms of sugar, caffeine drinks and refined carbohydrates (such as white bread, white rice and refined cereals) as they result in a rapid increase in blood sugar levels and a corresponding surge in energy â&#x20AC;&#x201C; which you will have seen if you have ever picked your child up from a birthday party and opened the door on a roomful of kids bouncing off the walls! Ă&#x160;Ă&#x160; Choose wholefoods â&#x20AC;&#x201C; wholegrains, lentils, beans, nuts, seeds, fresh fruit and vegetables.

With fruit and vegetables, go for dark green, leafy and root vegetables, such as watercress, carrots, sweet potatoes, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, spinach, green beans or peppers, raw or lightly cooked. Ă&#x160;Ă&#x160; Provide at least five or more servings of fruit and vegetables each day. Ă&#x160;Ă&#x160; Avoid overly processed foods. Ă&#x160;Ă&#x160; Combine protein foods with carbohydrate foods for good blood sugar balance. Give cereals and fruit with nuts or seeds, and ensuring your child eats carbohydrate-rich foods, such as potatoes, bread, pasta or rice, with protein rich foods such as chicken, lentils, beans or eggs. Ă&#x160;Ă&#x160; To ensure your child gets the right kinds of fats provide plenty of seeds, nuts and coldwater fish such as mackerel, herring, kipper or salmon two or three times a week. Ă&#x160;Ă&#x160; Choose good vegetable protein sources including beans, lentils, quinoa, tofu and â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;seedâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; vegetables such as broccoli. If your child eats animal protein, choose free-range eggs, fish or lean meat and go for organic whenever possible.

Ă&#x160;Ă&#x160; Regular, healthy snacks are important for children. Ă&#x160;Ă&#x160; Ensure your child drinks plenty of water â&#x20AC;&#x201C; at least 4 -5 cups of filtered tap water every day.

The 80:20 rule If this seems impossible, remember, for most children, the 80:20 rule can be applied. This means that provided they eat healthily for 80% of the time, you can relax for the other 20%. Try to stick to healthy food at home so you can relax when on holiday, visiting friends or going to parties. If their basic diet is the best it can be, the occasional packet of crisps or bowl of chocolate icecream is fine! ď&#x192;&#x2122; Alisa V Wilson is a nutritional therapist working in the Althos Clinic, Perth. www. nutritionalise.co.uk . In the new year Alisa will be providing a series of local talks for Mums and carers on what to feed their children and how to encourage healthy eating. Call 07796 213312 for more details.

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Issue 11 Families Fife | 9

Health and wellbeing

Help! Where is my off switch

By Helena Foss

I

’m not sure mothers ever really switch off. Being a mother is, as they say, a life sentence; our care provider services can be called on at any time of the day or night and interrupt every single activity (like important phone conversations) and bodily function.

But being busy mothering our children does not mean we should forget to mother ourselves too.

All very well, but where, I hear you ask, do

I find the time? Life is so busy; there are emails to reply to, piles of laundry, tax forms, scraped knees, runny noses and dirty floors screaming for attention – and that urgent report to submit yesterday.

Prioritise Soul Food

If, like me, you regularly find yourself arriving breathlessly at Overwhelm Central, running like fury to escape the clutches of the Things To Do monster (the one that gnaws away at you during occasional idle moments or jolts

Start as you mean to go on… ÊÊ Take lead from the experts One reason people give up new activities is the aches and pains they suffer because their body is unused to the physical effort.

Many people start off full of enthusiasm, forget about the boring stuff like stretching or warming up and end up sore or even injured. This can result in those who had set their sights on a specific challenge such as a 10k, not taking part, or not doing as well as they had hoped. Don’t let that happen to you, take a tip from the pros and look after your body, especially if you are planning on entering an event.

Remedial Massage

Remedial massage can ease aches or pains after that latest gym session, help maintain your muscles health so as to avoid further pain or injuries and also help you to relax.

Serious athletes use it as part of their training regime, why don’t you?

Of course, massage is not just for sports or activities. If you already have a problem

Remedial Massage

such as back/neck issues, RSI or headaches then remedial massage therapists can work on those areas of concern and support your recovery.

Or perhaps your resolutions are more to do with smoking or weight loss? Why not reward yourself for resisting temptation by spending what would have gone to cigarettes or the sweetie machine, on a relaxing massage treatment.

This year, why not try for long-term goals that last, rather than short-term resolutions that are vaporizing before the bells have stopped ringing on Hogmanay.

All massage is not the same, try a professional, remedial massage and feel the difference in yourself.  Orla Beaton and Jennifer Syme are both professional massage therapists who can support you through this period and help you maintain your goals. See – www. orla-beaton.co.uk (Perth and Kinross appointments) www.jstherapies.co.uk (Fife and Edinburgh appointments)

Improve the way you look, move and feel with Aspire Pilates.

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07854 196 955

07847 101 942

10 | Families Fife Issue 11

Full details and booking go to: www.aspirepilates.co.uk info@aspirepilates.co.uk St Andrews, Cupar, North East Fife

you anxiously awake at 3am), then it is time to prioritise your Soul Food. Your rational mind will not think that Soul Food is necessarily ‘important’ nor ‘productive’, but your body and heart will recognise it immediately; by feeling warm and relaxed. It could be half an hour alone under a favourite tree, lunch with a close friend, singing, painting or writing just one paragraph of that novel inside you.

These things nurture us – and nurturers need nurturing. Simple as that.

When I need to get my priorities straight, I use the ‘rocks and sand’ analogy. The really important things are a mix of pressing Things To Do and Soul Food – meeting an article deadline, a spot of tree hugging, my boy’s urgent dental appointment, a dance around the living room, dinner, regular exercise – are the rocks, the rest is gravelly stones or grains of sand. Pour sand in a metaphorical jar first and only a few rocks fit on top. But pop the rocks in first and all the itty bitty stuff will fit in around it. My sandy items sit on a list and will easily get done once my rocks are in place.  Find out what your rocks are [but don’t forget the Soul Food] and prioritise them.

Then let the sand trickle in. If nurturer’s not happy, then it’s difficult for the nurtured to be happy. So make time for this – it IS important.

To read Helen’s full article go to www. familiesfife.co.uk/offswitch

Aspire Pilates

P

ilates can help to improve your posture, give you a better understanding of core strength and contribute to your overall sense of wellbeing. Based in the North East of Fife, Aspire Pilates teaches matwork classes to small groups (no more than twelve people) which enables greater attention to those in the class. The classes are progressive and participants book for a block. Aspire is also able to offer one-to-one and small group sessions (two to three people) for clients who would prefer personal training with a programme specifically tailored to their needs. Aspire is delighted to offer Spirals, a new movement base d exercise class that draws on Dance and Pilates to improve participants’ strength, coordination, balance and flexibility.

Available only at a few exclusive centres in Scotland, this new movement class is a must for those looking for a more flowing and energising workout.  For information on all aspects of Aspire Pilates please contact info@ aspirepilates.co.uk or go to the website: www.aspirepilates.co.uk

Birth, baby and Beyond PHOTOGRAPH: lemonphotography.co.uk

Better beginnings with the Synergy Centre Birth Fit?

I

Sensory makes sense for babies … and toddlers

B

abies learn more in the first year of life than at any other time. Never again will there be such an extraordinary pace of development. They are totally attentive and absolutely fascinated by everything that they can see, hear, touch, taste and smell.

Baby Sensory doesn’t waste a moment of this valuable time!

Parents looking for an unforgettable experience won’t go far wrong with Baby Sensory! The joy and sense of awe that arises from seeing baby learn and develop is well worth the effort of squeezing it into the weekly schedule. Founded on over thirty years of university research and practical theory, Baby Sensory is a unique programme that promotes learning and development from the start.

Each activity is supported by useful learning and developmental information, so that parents know how to lead their baby’s learning forwards, and every week is different. Parents are provided with hundreds of simple ideas for activities that they can do with their babies at home. Baby signing for example, is a great way to develop speech and language, whereas movement activities can help with the development of sight and hand-eye co-ordination, so important for later reading and writing. As well as fantastic props – light and puppet shows, bubbles, musical instruments each week includes a discovery playtime, during which your baby can enjoy our exploratory play area whilst you have the opportunity to meet other parents.

Toddler Sense Adventure Play is the

C la s s e s i n P e r t h

Book now for a free session Nicola on 07769 788717

www.babysensory.com

t’s wonderful to spend time lovingly preparing the nursery to welcome your new baby, but are you spending time preparing yourself for a positive experience of labour? Going to Yoga for Pregnancy & Birth during your second and third trimesters can prepare you for the unpredictability of labour by getting fit physically, mentally and emotionally.

Birth is a very physical and sometimes quite lengthy activity that benefits from strength and stamina and also from your baby engaging in the optimum position. Specific yoga postures and moves may enable you to labour more comfortably and allow you to stay more upright and mobile in labour. Working with gravity speeds up the process.

But being Birth Fit isn’t just about being physically strong, it’s also important to be able to relax and let go.

During pregnancy you need a toned pelvic floor to support the growing baby, but when it’s time to push or breathe your baby out, you want to be able to relax and release the pelvic floor. There’s also the mental and emotional side to this. If you’re terrified of the idea of birth, your flight-fight system will be on red alert, and your body will be tense and ready to run. But when your mind perceives it is safe, your body relaxes and this includes your pelvic floor.

In the management of pain and panic, there are a some really effective

next step in the Baby Sensory programme.

Designed for children aged 13mnths – 3 yrs this programme focuses on mobility, excitement and adventure. Each week we set out on a new adventure from going to the jungle, under the sea or climbing a mountain, to magic shows and hunting for dinosaurs. With great equipment and great ideas it is a fabulous, fun filled hour every week.  Classes in Perth are run on a Wednesday and Thursday. You can join the classes at any time. Classes also take place in Dundee and Broughty Ferry. For more details please visit us on www.babysensory.com , find us on Facebook (PerthBabySensory/Toddler Sense Perth) or contact Nicola on 07769 788717 to book a FREE taster session at one of our classes.

tools to work with including breathing awareness and practices, visualising a ‘safe place’ and working with sound.

Pregnancy is a time when you may feel more naturally intuitive and Yoga invites you to strengthen and trust this connection. During the pregnancy classes, you will experience a range of practises so that they become embodied knowledge rather than learned techniques. Then when you go into labour you can trust the innate wisdom of your body to respond to the moment-by moment changes and guide you towards what is right for you and your baby.  Sally Roach is qualified in Yoga for Pregnancy & Birth and runs weekly classes at the Synergy Centre in Glenrothes. To book a place call 01592 564892

Specialist Care for Pregnancy

Complementary Therapies Available Pre & Post Natally

Yoga Reiki Shiatsu Massage Birth Partner Workshops Manual Lymphatic Drainage Reflexology

Gift Vouchers Available Synergy Natural Pregnancy Services

01592 631672 www.synergycentre.co.uk Issue 11 Families Fife | 11

Parent to parent

PHOTOGRAPH: J Bewley/Sustrans

This issue, to celebrate Britan’s year of Olympic fame and to tie in with our health and wellbeing theme, Families brings you an exclusive interview with Sir Steve Redgrave, one of Britain’s healthiest icons. Sir Steve has published an Olympic themed book, Great Olympic Moments. Complete with stunning, specially selected photographs, he recounts his favorite Olympic stories and reveals what it is that makes these moments truly great. Read on to hear Steve’s thoughts on sport and the part it can play in children’s lives.

Free Range Kids

W

hen asked to reminisce back to childhood many adults will recall riding their bikes, exploring new and unfamiliar places or being out and about with friends. Indeed, around 70% of today’s adults experienced most of their childhood adventures outdoors.

Contrast this with today’s children. Top of their list is also playing on their bikes and exploring new and unfamiliar places. But only 29% are experiencing adventures outdoors, often closely supervised by adults.

Charity Sustrans thinks it’s time to change this, believing every child deserves to be free range and experience freedom from their front door to go exploring and play out.

They also need more opportunities to travel independently, to make their way safely and confidently to school and beyond on foot and by bike.

Sustrans is asking people to support their Free Range Kids campaign by signing up to the pledge at www.sustrans.org.uk/ freerangekids It is already being backed by TV presenter and wildlife enthusiast Miranda Krestovnikoff, the campaign’s ambassador. The website also has loads of ideas and support to help kids become more free range. Lots of fantastic prizes are also up for grabs in Sustrans’ winter competition which is looking for imaginative and creative bike sticker designs. 

12 | Families Fife Issue 11

How did you get in to rowing?

The head of the English department at my small comprehensive in Marlow asked me if I would like to try the sport. Going out of school during school time always appealed to me.

Being this country’s and one of the world’s most successful Olympians is quite an accolade- how have you managed to achieve so much? A lot of fun but hard work, dedication, focus and desire.

What do you think your greatest achievement is?

A combination of all the Olympics I competed at, being a consistent winner for nearly 20 years, which stands me out from almost every other Olympian.

It is possible to balance family life with being a competitive athlete?

Yes, I managed to balance it but it helped having a very supportive family.

You took part in the cycling race, Race Across America in the summer. Are you fully recovered from the accident you had and how much money did you raise?

Yes, I am fully recovered after my accident. We managed to raise about £35,000 for Sport Relief and my fund.

Do you think you are born with the desire to succeed or can you cultivate it?

There are so many different factors in achieving something. I am sure it is a combination of both.

The London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic rowing and canoeing events are being held at Dorney Lake next year, do you think that more young people will take up rowing and canoeing because of this?

Yes, definitely. After every Olympic games the intake of people taking up the sport increases. I am sure after the home games this will be even greater.

What is your advice to young sports men and women who want to take

up sport competitively?

I think the main factor is enjoyment. The more you enjoy something the more effort you will put in and the more you will achieve.

Many schools don’t hold competitive sports days, do you think we need to encourage more competitiveness in our schools? We live in a very competitive world and I feel sport helps you deal with the success and failure of life and this is something we shouldn’t be hiding away from until you leave school and enter the big wide world.

How can parents encourage their children to do more sport?

Most people find sport through education. But parents should play a big part in encouraging them to get involved outside school, but this is a very big sacrifice for them as well.

Marlow rowing club (where you used to train) has suffered a terrible blow because of the fire in August, do you think it can recover?

Yes, the club is going through a difficult time at the moment but it is amazing how much support the club has had from the local community and I am sure it will be stronger in the long term.

You have just released a new book Great Olympic Moments, apart from your own, what is your favourite?

It is difficult for me to pick out one because all the images mean something to me.

Mark Spitz was my first awareness of the Olympic games as a 10 year old, which had a big impact on me, but I love the image of Cathy Freeman sitting on the track straight after her success at the Sydney Games.

She looks like she has just lost and not won and I can empathise with that feeling. So much focus, dedication and sacrifice has gone in to that moment, but no thought has been given to what happens once you cross the line. 

Book review

Are we nearly there yet?

A tale of travel with pre-schoolers

ÊÊ Phoebe at the Famous Grouse Experience

B

en Hatch, author of Are We nearly There Yet?, his wife Dinah and their two children Phoebe (3) and Charlie (1) spent 5 months touring Britain’s family-friendly attractions. In the course of 8000 miles they reviewed 900 attractions, slept in tents, mobile homes, castles, hotels, and, once, in their car. They were attacked by bats, had confrontat ions with puff adders, Nazis and Billie Piper’s pyjamas. In the book Ben highlights some of the things he now knows. Read on for useful insights to travel with pre-schoolers.

1) Not owning a sat-nav today is like being a 14th century sailor and trying to round the Cape without a nautical chart. We bought one halfway through our trip. Put it this way, if I’d a choice – brakes or sat-nav? - I’d gladly drill a hole in the driver’s footwell and use my feet to slow down.

2) Containing the world’s largest collection of David Hockneys, The 1853 Gallery in Saltaire, West Yorkshire, has a café where staff heat up baby food and turn a blind eye while your toddler daughter completes, fittingly, her first mixed media work (a rabbit that involved crayons, a pencil and a sachet of Ketchup from her fish-finger sandwich).

3) At the Jorvik Viking Centre in York it’s possible, through responding to a series of questions about your hair colour, and also, somewhat baffling, your sandwich filling of choice, to see how much Viking blood you possess.

4) After almost being blown up in a field of live ordnance inside a Military Zone, near Otterburn, we’ve learnt to be careful taking the kids for nature wees and to look out for signs saying: “Warning: This may explode and kill you.”

5) You can impersonate David Blaine on the A719 between Dunure and Croy in Scotland.

Here there’s an optical illusion created by the

Custom Cakes & Cupcakes made to order for any occasion

T: 07950 488 198 E: candi.martin@btinternet.com

surrounding landscape which means that if you put your car in neutral and release the brake it appears to slowly roll up hill. Known as the Electric Brae (brae meaning slope), the spot is marked by a stone cairn inscribed with an explanation that you needn’t trouble your awe-struck family with.

6) On long journeys don’t oversell destinations… as we did visiting the Wensleydale Cheese Visitor Centre due to a Wallace and Gromit on their leaflet. It wasn’t exciting.

7) Cheap in-car dvd players are inadvisable.

Ours kept disconnecting from the cigarette lighter and returning the film to the beginning every time my wife scratched her leg in the passenger seat. Consequently despite watching Finding Nemo 10 times our kids are still unaware Nemo was eventually reunited with his father.

8) Scone Palace near Perth was where Queen Victoria was taught curling on the polished floor of the Long Gallery. It’s also where Robert the Bruce and Charles II were crowned

 Call Susan on 07734 289 143 to advertise here

and where we heard one the funniest utterances of our trip. A German man in the café ahead of us ordering “Von Bobbily Bobbily.”

9). You can have fun in the Scottish Central Highlands at Doune Castle, used in the filming of Monty Python and the Holy Grail, shouting from the ramparts on our best John Cleese voices: “I fart in your general direction.

Your mother was a hamster and your father smelled of elderberries.”

10) Finally, if all distractions in the car fail, turn up Classic FM to max volume and kid yourself you aren’t muffling the kids’ din with an even louder one, but that you’re educating them about Haydn.  Are We Nearly There Yet? 8000 Misguided Miles Round Britain is available from all good bookshops and from Amazon for £5.

The new place on the web to find stylish and quirky home and lifestyle gifts. www.urbancuckoo.co.uk

Issue 11 Families Fife | 13

Clubs and classes: familiesfife.co.uk/whatson Water lot of fun!

T

eaching water confidence and safety techniques from birth, the uniquely structured Water Babies programme is designed to make the most of babies’ natural affinity with water.

With progressive training, babies can be taught life saving skills such as turning onto their backs or, following a sudden submersion, swimming to the nearest solid object. Within the last three years, at least ten of our children have saved themselves from drowning – and five of them were just two at the time!

Swimming from birth is excellent for babies’ development, providing a complete physical workout which in turn aids the development of the brain.

What’s more, regular swimming can enhance their awareness and improve eating and sleeping patterns – a definite bonus!

With a clear emphasis on having fun, lessons are generally very sociable occasions – and excellent for strengthening the bond between carer and baby. 

Water Babies classes run nationwide with local classes in Fife, Cumbernauld, Stirling and Falkirk. For more information call 01786 430314, email makeasplash@ waterbabies.co.uk or visit www. waterbabies.co.uk

Clubs and Classes News

Listed under Kids Clubs and Classes in Fife, Perth & Kinross 1st Steps Dance & Movement Classes for under 5’s provides fun dancing, singing, action, stories, rhymes, play and movement classes for babies and young children. We run classes in a friendly and informal manner so you can be safe in the knowledge that your child and maybe you too will learn dancing in a stimulating and secure environment. 1st Steps Under 5’s Dance & Movement Classes now have classes in the following locations across the region: Alloa, Kinross, Kirkcaldy, Dundee, Burntisland, Leven, Dalgety Bay, Cowdenbeath, Perth, Blairgowrie, and Glenrothes. BABIES UNDER 6 MONTHS ARE FREE (Spaces Limited) E-mail: elizabeth_dancedaze@hotmail.co.uk or susan_dancedaze@hotmail.com Tel.: Elizabeth 07923949530, Susan 07773279797 or Caroline 07897617725 Jo Jingles Classes start their new term from Monday 16th January 2012. If you are looking for a fun, interactive and educational experience for you and your little one why not come along and try one of our classes? Our classes are suitable for children from 3 months to age 5. Each week we enjoy singing, playing percussion instruments, music and movement, and fun with lots of different props too - parachute, pom poms and bubbles to name but a few! All children are welcome to come along and have a free trial class, and babies under 6 months get their first 4 weeks of classes for free. If you’d like to join one of our classes in Dalgety Bay, Dunfermline or Kirkcaldy please call Julie on 01383 734080 or e-mail jojinglesfife@hotmail .co.uk

Classes available in Ballet, Tap, Modern, Highland and Musical Theatre Contact us now to reserve your place!

Web: www.robertsondanceacademy.co.uk Email: robertsondanceacademy@live.co.uk Call: 07590 925490 14 | Families Fife Issue 11

 Call Susan on 07734 289 143 to advertise here

Doodle and Splat Our new term starts back w/c 16th Jan and we run for 9 weeks until w/c 26th Mar 2012. We are also offering some FREE taster sessions for mother & toddler groups 9th 13th Jan and also to 13th - 17th Feb. If you would like to book a session for your group, drop an email to doodle@doodleandsplat. co.uk. Spaces a limited to book early!

Moves and Grooves Fun and flowing movement & dance classes created to capture the imagination of both boys & girls from age approx.

18 months to school age. We introduce children to a variety of sports, dance and creative movement using music, songs and equipment. Classes currently held in Cupar but check website www.movesandgrooves. co.uk for news on new locations. Contact Jenni on 07967 010727 or jenni@ movesandgrooves.co.uk Helen O Grady Drama Following a busy and exciting term leading up to Christmas, the children of the Helen O’Grady Drama Academy

Jo Jingles is Here!

Fun Music, Singing & Movement Classes for children aged 3 months to 5 years

Develop your child’s t Social Skills t Language t Confidence t Listening Skills t Co-ordination t Imagination Children’s Parties & Nursery Sessions also available!

*Babies under 6 months receive their first 4 weeks of classes free!* For details on classes in: Dalgety Bay, Duloch, Dunfermline & Kirkcaldy Call Julie on 01383 734080 jojinglesfife@hotmail.co.uk www.jojingles.com/fife

Under 5s Dance & Movement Classes Classes held throughout Fife, Kinross, Perth and Dundee Franchise opportunities available Low start up costs and manageable hours Call or look on facebook for your local class Call 07923 949530 or 07773 279797 www.facebook.com/1ststeps

Out and About: familiesfife.co.uk/whatson have now replenished their imagination store, topped up their energy reserves and recharged their drama batteries for the new term which begins in all our studios the week beginning Monday 9th January. For information about joining our stimulating and empowering classes ring Barbara on 01382 330052.

Robertson Dance Academy Boys and Girls classes in Ballet, Tap, Modern Dance, Highland Dancing and Musical Theatre.

Enrol now @ www.robertsondanceacademy. co.uk See advert for details!

❄

Highlight of the month Snowdrops by moonlight This February Cambo Institute is set to recreate the bewitching light and sound spectacle in the renowned snowdrop woods of Cambo Estate in Fife. From 11-19 February the charity will hold nine evening walks, leading visitors under the starlit skies through 70 acres of frosty landscape.

january - february 2012 Till Saturday 7th January Jack and the Beanstalk Perth Theatre Fee Fi Fo Fun – get ready for an adventure of Giant proportions... Poor Jack; his mum is embarrassing, his brother is daft, his beloved cow has run off and the princess he fancies doesn’t even know his name.

But Jack’s problems are about to get much, MUCH bigger. The local giant is hungry and he wants cow and princess for tea! With your help, a bit of magic and a lot of fun, he can put all his troubles BEHIND HIM. But if things are going to end happily ever after, Jack is going to need all your shouting and cheering and a fair bit of singing along too! www.horsecross.co.uk 01738 621 031

Till Saturday 14th January Cinderella Adam Smith Kirkcaldy The most magical of all pantomimes. A long time ago in a land NOT very far away... Fife’s favourite Pantomime is back with an extra special Scottish retelling of the most magical of all fairy tales. Join Cinderella and her pals for an amazing adventure full of joy, laughter, music, comedy, thrills, spills – and not forgetting the odd ball and the lost glass slipper! And it wouldn’t be Fife’s favourite panto without Fife’s favourite dame! Billy Mack returns as Nanny Mac in this marvellously, magical Christmas treat for the whole family. www.onfife.com

Saturday 7th January St Andrews Farmers Market Argyle St Car Park St Andrews KY16 9BX 9:00am - 1:00pm www.fifefarmersmarket.co.uk

Saturday 14th January Dunfermline Farmers Market Glen Gates Bridge Street Dunfermline KY12 8AQ 9:00am - 1:00pm www.fifefarmersmarket.co.uk

Saturday 21st January Cupar Farmers’ Market Crossgate Cupar 9.00am - 1.00pm www.fifefarmersmarket.co.uk

Saturday 28th January Kirkcaldy Farmers Market Town Square, Wemyssfield Kirkcaldy KY1 1XW 9:00 am 1:00pm www.fifefarmersmarket.co.uk

Tickets must be booked in advance by calling 01333 450054 or online at snowdropsbystarlight.com. Tickets are priced at £9 for adults on Monday to Thursday and £12 from Friday to Sunday.

A child ticket (3-16 years) is £15 and those under 3 years are free. Family tickets are also available. Pre-booked park and ride from Kingsbarns Golf Links will then take visitors to the start of the walk. Disabled access and parking on request.

For further information visit snowdropsbystarlight.com

30th January 2012- 12th February Fife Festival of Music Venues in Cupar, Dunfermline & Kirkcaldy www.ffom.org.uk

1 February to 13 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. Feed the piglets.

01333 450054 www.camboestate.com

Saturday 4th February St Andrews Farmers Market Argyle St Car Park St Andrews KY16 9BX 9:00am - 1:00pm www. fifefarmersmarket.co.uk Perth Farmers Market King Edward Street and St John’s Place, Perth, from 9am to 2pm www. perthfarmersmarket.co.uk

11 February to – 19th February SNOWDROPS BY STARLIGHT Cambo Estate St Andrews An Enchanting Family ExperienceA light spectacular creating a magical wonderland in the famous Cambo snowdrop woods.

01333 450054 www.snowdropsbystarlight.com

Loo coup

Great news. Much loved Muddy Boots farm near Cupar has won a five star award for their toilets! Their facilities won the accolade of best Cafe toilets in Scotland in the Loo of the Year Awards. They also pooped, sorry scooped runner up place for the best baby and childrens’ facilities in Scotland.

Added to this they’ve now been nominated for the best on farm attraction, and they are the only finalist north of London this year in the FARMA awards. Big bums up, ahem, thumbs up to Muddy Boots! 

Saturday 11th February Dunfermline Farmers Market Glen Gates Bridge Street Dunfermline KY12 8AQ 9:00am - 1:00pm www.fifefarmersmarket.co.uk

Thursday 16th – Sunday 19th February Cinderella on Ice Perth Concert Hall After the hit shows Snow White on Ice and Peter Pan on Ice, The Russian Ice Stars return with another much loved fairy tale as they deliver a dazzling interpretation of the enchanting Cinderella.

The high-speed combination of extraordinary skating and breath-taking aerial feats will leave you mesmerised - a spectacular treat for the whole family. www.horsecross.co.uk 0845 612 6324

Saturday 18th February Cupar Farmers’ Market Crossgate Cupar 9.00am - 1.00pm www.fifefarmersmarket.co.uk

Saturday 25th February Kirkcaldy Farmers Market Town Square, Wemyssfield Kirkcaldy KY1 1XW 9:00 am 1:00pm www.fifefarmersmarket.co.uk

Monday 27th February Little Princess Live on Stage Rothes Hall Glenrothes Come and join in the celebration with Little Princess in the theatrical Premiere of the hit children’s book and favourite TV character The Kingdom is brimming with excitement as it seems everyone has something to celebrate on a very special day. King & Queen, Admiral & General and even Chef & Maid have all invited Little Princess to tea and Little Princess has said yes to everyone! Oh no how can she be at three parties at once? Be part of the action and songs as Little Princess, Puss & Scruff and all her friends discover the best way to celebrate.

01592 611 101 www.onfife.com

Issue 11 Families Fife | 15

Lauriston Nursery

For more information call

01383 741900

www.lauristonnursery.com

Š Excellent care commission reports Š Quality staff who care, in Scotlands

most environmentally friendly, purpose built nursery.

Our children have the World at their feet

16 | Families Fife Issue 11