Families Fife Issue 12 Mar Apr 2012

FREE Issue 12 March/April 2012

Inco rporating Perth & Kinross

The Recycling issue The really useful magazine for families in the Fife region: • Things to do outdoors • Easter What’s On • Competitions

www.familiesfife.co.uk

Contents

Guess what? It’s our birthday!

Families Fife celebrates it’s 2nd birthday in the May-June issue.

And what better way to celebrate than with our

GREAT BIG BIRTHDAY & PARTY FEATURE?

To make sure your business is seen in the party feature get in touch - MLQ\WZ(NIUQTQM[ÅNM KW ]S COPY AND ARTWORK DEADLINE: 30 March 2012 Have you checked out our website?

Use this code to take you to our weekly Family Life blog from Sharon /QTÅTTIV W]Z 3QZSKITLa U]U _PW shares the ups and downs of parenthood with us. Warning: may be ILLQK\Q^M ___ NIUQTQM[ÅNM KW ]S JTWO

Inco rporating Perth & Kinross 3 Welcome to Families Fife 4 Take life on Families finds out what’s on and what’s new in and around the region 6 Education and childcare Lots of ideas for getting the kids back out into the fresh air plus nursery news 8 Reduce, reuse, recycle What you can do as a family to make a small but significant environmental impact 11 Birth, baby and beyond Our look at maternity matters

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

2 | Families Fife Issue 12

12 Clubs and classes With new column from Jenny Clark, one third of a bilingual family living in Milnathort 13 Shopping, offers and competitions 14 Out and About at Easter

Contact us

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.

Cover image: McAteer Photograph

NEXT ISSUE: MAY-JUNE 2012 Booking deadline: 30 March. Out 01 May 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

www.familiesfife.co.uk

Revive, reuse or re-cycle ... your bike!

N

o I haven’t gone all camera shy. I just wanted to bring readers attention to our new QR codes. Now, those of you with smart ‘phones can simply hold your phone over the page when you see a code and be taken directly to the Families Fife website.

Clever stuff and handy for checking what’s on when out and about. Try it out.

After what seems to have been a long, if mild winter, this issue is all about getting back outdoors. There’s lots on locally over the coming months so do get planning and get out and enjoy it.

We’re also looking at ways to recycle more and minimise your environmental impact as a family. Other than that, there’s competitions, mother’s day shopping inspiration, Easter activities and craft and more. Read on.

Susan Kirkwood, Editor

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here are lots of good reasons to cycle and walk more often – being green is just one of them. Cycling and walking are also great fun, easy ways to get around, can save you money and keep you healthy.

Fife Council and UK charity Sustrans are working together on an initiative called Make your move Kirkcaldy, to help more people walk and cycle more often. And for those living in other parts of Fife, there’s lots going on near you, too.

We’re all used to recycling glass, paper and plastic these days, but did you know that bikes can be recycled? Bikeworks is a charity in Glenrothes which does exactly that – refurbishing donated bikes to a high standard and selling them on at affordable prices.

Make your move Kirkcaldy will be hosting bike sales in partnership with Bikeworks – look out for more information during Bike Week (16-24 June).

In many Kirkcaldy schools, the I Bike programme is underway to encourage more kids to cycle and it’s getting a great reception from pupils, staff and parents – at one primary school more than 200 people came along to a Bike Breakfast! More cycling to school means healthier children, and makes the area around the school a safer place to be as well.

If you’ve got a bike, and your children or

grandchildren are cycling to school – why not try getting out on a bike yourself? If it’s been a while, you might be interested in some training to build up your confidence. Make your move Kirkcaldy is offering FREE one-toone sessions with a qualified cycle trainer for adults living or working in the town. There are a limited number of sessions available, so get in quick.

And if you just want a reason to get out and cycle – why not try a CycleStart ride?

These are regular bike rides over shorter distances and at a comfortable pace – so you can have a chat as you go. The first in a programme of Kirkcaldy rides is on March 17th, and there are groups in Dunfermline as well as Kirkcaldy with more planned around Fife, with opportunities to help out as well.

If you’d rather get out for a walk, check out Bums Off Seats walking groups all over Fife. Details can be found on Fifedirect.

There will be loads more fun activities for all ages throughout the summer, so there’s never been a better time to get into the cycling habit.  For more information visit www.makeyourmovekirkcaldy.co.uk or contact the Project Co-ordinator, Michael Nimmo on 08451 555 555 ext 477009.

3yoga3 stretch & relax 3 pregnancy & birth baby & postnatal general mixed ability

3

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

3

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g includin pening rides, p a h 's t what ycleStart led t abou C Find ouycle training, FREE c ts more: and lo

www.theyoga.co.uk

www.familiesfife.co.uk

Issue 12 Families Fife | 3

News: Who, What, Where, When …

Take life on, one step at a time I

f you find prizing the Nintendo DS out of your children’s hands and getting them moving is easier said than done, then the people at the Take Life On campaign have a few useful tips for you.

Children need at least 60 minutes physical activity every day to help prevent the risk of heart disease, type 2 diabetes and cancer later in life so making sure they’re getting their share is vital.

Regular exercise and running around doesn’t just prevent the risk of serious conditions, it helps build stronger bones and develops children’s coordination, concentration levels and confidence.

Even busy families can build some activity into their everyday lives and take life on.

Here are some ideas to cut down on couch time and get minis moving: ÊÊ You could break down the 60 minutes into bite-sized chunks of 10 to 15 minutes throughout the day ÊÊ Children should have no more than two hours in front of the TV a day. Limit the amount of time they spend sitting down in front of the TV or computer screen ÊBuy Ê some skipping ropes, a frisbee and a ball. They’re all cheap, easy to use and you can set challenges to keep them motivated ÊÊ Kids who have a short attention span won’t spend long on solitary games. The more

excitement the better, so introduce them to team games and big sporting events as early as possible ÊÊ The local park is great for letting off steam, playing tig with pals or working up a sweat on the swings or climbing frame. ÊÊ If you live in a flat or a house with no outside space, it can be difficult to think of activities in winter. But a bit of research into what’s happening locally can solve the

What’s ON at Fife?

A pril is a really busy month across On at Fife venues with lots of shows to fire the imagination and captivate the audiences.

On Sunday 1 April, Hiccup Theatre presents The Owl and The Pussycat. Based on the poem by Edward Lear, this show features puppetry, live music and beautiful storytelling. Performed at Adam Smith Theatre in Kirkcaldy, the show is suitable for children aged 3 – 7.

Monday 2 April sees the start of the popular Puppet Animation Festival with companies from all over the UK performing their unique and charming shows.

The final show at Carnegie Hall in Dunfermline on Wednesday 11 April is Peter and the Wolf. Clydebuilt Puppets will

4 | Families Fife Issue 12

present this large scale puppet show with life sized animal puppets and actors, which is ideal for family audiences.

Still in April, the Singing Kettle will be Shake, Rattle and Rolling into Adam Smith Theatre on Thursday 12 to Sunday 15

problem. Families website is a good place to start -www.familiesfife.co.uk/whatson Recent research by NHS Health Scotland found 55% of parents felt they could make their children’s lives healthier. Ensuring your child gets their 60 minutes of activity a day will help you instil good habits in their lives for the future.  For more ideas on getting your children active visit www.takelifeon.co.uk

April. Cilla, Artie, Gary and Kevin invite you along to this brand new musical extravaganza!

The Science Museum Live on Tour promises to be explosive fun for all the family. Suitable for children aged 7 upwards, the show features spectacular science, dangerous demonstrations and extraordinary experiments, all performed at Carnegie Hall.

The final April offering is Charlie and Lola’s Best Bestest Play which will be performed at the marvellous, newly re-opened Lochgelly Centre on Saturday 14 & Sunday 15 April. The stars of the hit BBC TV series are brought to life by a magical mix of puppets, live action and music. Suitable for children age 3 upwards.  Full details of all these shows and more can be found at www.onfife.com

Organised mum’s diary date:

C

airnie Fruit Farm and Mega Maze reopens on the 30th of March in time for the Easter holidays.

Hoping for some nice weather, loads of daffodils, chocolate galore, baby chicks and lambs (maybe) on display and our usual delicious homebaking on offer. 

www.familiesfife.co.uk

Baby show

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cotland’s biggest baby & toddler event, The Scottish Baby & Toddler Show is back at the SECC, Glasgow from 27-29 April 2012. For the second year Mothercare and Early Learning Centre are back on board as headline sponsors.

As well as seeing the latest products and services for parents, babies and toddlers, visitors can make huge savings, obtain expert pregnancy and parenting advice, with features including: ÊÊ Free crèche by Bertram ÊÊ Free nappies, wipes and nappy sacks at the Boots Changing Area ÊÊ Free facilities at The Baby & Toddler Feeding Area ÊÊ Baby Play Area and new to the show this year, our Toddler Activity Area, both sponsored by Early Learning

Centre packed with games and toys The popular Expert Advice and Information Area will be back with free seminars from expert speakers including Annabel Karmel, Jo Tantum, Road Safety Scotland, British Red Cross, Dr Titzer and more!  Opening hours are 10am – 5pm daily. *Advance tickets are £6. On the door tickets are £10/£38 for a group of 4. All tickets include brochure RRP £2. Free entry for under 16s. Further information and tickets are available through 0844 395 4000 or by visiting www. thescottishbabyandtoddlershow. com. You can also follow the show on Facebook – thescottishbabyshow and Twitter@Babyshowsecc *Advance tickets available until 25 April 2012 and subject to booking fee

H

See Page 13 to win FREE tickets to the Baby Show

www.familiesfife.co.uk

Step by Step to a bright future at Clever Clogs S et on the edge of Kelty, a new nursery, Clever Clogs, is set to open its doors to babies, toddlers and pre-schoolers after Easter.

The nursery, owned and run by Alan and Audrey Kinnersley and managed by their youngest daughter, Lynne, has a lot to offer working parents looking for local childcare. ‘One of our key strengths’ explained Audrey Kinnersley, ‘is our commitment to high quality childcare in a home-from-home environment’.

Audrey herself should know what high quality childcare is, having 35 years experience in Early Years education. She is currently head teacher at a local nursery, which was described by HMIE as a ‘Centre of Excellence’ and was voted ‘Nursery of the Year’ in 2009.

At Clever Clogs, outdoor learning is seen as a key objective. As well as the 3 separate indoor rooms for babies, toddlers

and pre-school children, the nursery offers large outdoor area with woodland on site and is adjacent to a local stream for nature walks. Audrey explains ‘Outside children can learn so many skills; social skills, teamwork, leadership, open-ended play, physical skills to name but a few.

They will do this whilst learning about the seasons, the weather, the natural world and importantly – whilst having fun’. As all parents know, fresh air, light and open space stimulates the brain and body, which in turn, helps keep children fit and promotes restful sleep. The perfect recipe for great home from home childcare. 

Clever Clogs is situated at 42, Black Road, Kelty, For further details and fee structure call 07714788484 or email: cleverclogschildcare@yahoo.co.uk www. cleverclogs-childcare.co.uk Half day and hourly sessions are offered subject to availability.

Yummy days out

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adbury Easter Egg Trails in Fife are taking place again this year. For lots of fresh air fun in Fife and Perth, make sure to make a date at one of the National Trust for Scotland’s beautiful historic buildings. There will be trails with clues to collect, face painting and for those that solve the puzzles – a chocolate Easter egg.

What’s more, you can visit the properties themselves. 

See page 14 for all properties taking part, dates and timings.

Issue 12 Families Fife | 5

Education & Childcare

101 things to do outside!

Find your most favourite things to do outside!

By Ian Hanton hristmas is a distant memory and we are still wondering how we are going to fit all the new toys into the already overburdened toy cupboard. When you are reorganising the toy cupboard to maximise its capacity, depressingly you come across all the toys that are untouched or rarely used since last year.

To ease the pressure on the toy cupboard, to reduce your stress levels and to bring some magic to your child’s life check out this list of things to do. Granted you will need that most precious of commodities, time. I for one, would argue that it is a shrewd investment.

They will object when you unplug their Xbox, but when you are out enjoying our beautiful native countryside… it will make sense - honest!

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39 Bury treasure and make a map 1 Build a tree house 40 Look for animal tracks or 2 Skip droppings 3 Plant a butterfly garden 41 Learn how to tie different knots 4 Build a fort 42 Count the kinds of trees in 5 Play “Red Rover” your garden or park 6 Play “Simon Says “ 43 Make an outdoor collage 7 Look at bugs 44 Swim in the sea 8 Make a tyre swing 45 Listen to crickets and frogs 9 Have a picnic 46 Make a mud pie 10 Climb a tree 47 Close your eyes, touch things 11 Go swimming and guess what they are 12 Run through the sprinkler 48 Build a sculpture or make 13 Make a mud slide jewellery out of things you find 14 Paint or draw outside in your garden or park 15 Read a book on the lawn 49 Make leaf prints or under a tree It’s a fact!

50 Dig in the earth 26 Draw on for worms pavement with Across the world, chalk we spend more on shoes 51 Touch leaves and trees 17 Play and jewellery than on 52 Play tag hopscotch higher education and 53 Kick a ball 18 Plant a garden more on ocean cruises 54 Feed and 19 Dig a hole to than on drinking watch animals see what’s below water for all.

55 Make a snowman the ground 56 Smell flowers 20 Make a bird feeder 57 Weed 21 Watch the weather 58 Rake leaves 22 Look for shapes in the clouds 59 Visit a waterfall 23 Play spray bottle water tag 60 Swim in the sea 24 Make a lemonade stall 61 Count acorns and pine cones 25 Fly a kite 62 Chase and catch butterflies 26 Roll down a hill 63 Throw snowballs 27 Play with your pets 64 Sledge or play outside in the 28 Do a scavenger hunt snow 29 Jump on a trampoline 65 Collect leaves and make things 30 Collect rocks with them 31 Play “4-Square” 66 Watch water ripples in ponds 32 Play “Duck-Duck-Goose” 33 Play “I Spy” 34 Look at the moon, stars and Ian Hanton is the Team Leader night sky Marketing and Inclusion at Fife 35 Ice skate Childcare and Early Years Service 36 Try to identify bird calls For ideas 67 to 101 visit 37 Howl to dogs at night www.familiesfife.co.uk/101outdoorideas 38 Bury a time capsule

6 | Families Fife Issue 12

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It’s all systems go at Lauriston nursery

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nother action packed year at Lauriston Nursery has begun. Staff, children and parents celebrated their 3rd year of opening with a fancy dress party to mark the growing success of fun and learning.

Staff, children and parents have been busy over the past year taking part in the Eco-schools initiative to reduce their carbon footprint and have successfully been awarded their bronze and silver award. They have taken part in activities such as weekly recycling and litter picking. The children put their ideas together to help develop the nursery grounds resulting in the creation of a paved area for their bikes. This has been put to good use and the children are developing their knowledge about road safety.

This year, the focus is on their garden and the children learn about biodiversity by looking at natural life cycles by observing frogspawn and caterpillars. The children also had great fun collecting rainwater then using it to water their plants in their recycled tyre planters.

The Forest Kindergarten is a great success with the children too, exploring their local environment where they observe the changes in the seasons, climb trees and look at various natural materials and record their findings.

Plans for Easter include creating colourful artworks, egg making and rolling and bonnet making judged by residents in the nearby Canmore Lodge when they join the children, as tradition dictates, for Easter tea and cakes. 

Lilliput is going green

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he Bertram Nursery group are making a firm commitment towards ensuring all their nurseries are working hard to ensure that they are fully green. Hot on the heels of the Falkirk nursery who achieved the coveted ECO Schools Green flag award last year Lilliput Nursery in Dunfermline are fully embracing the awards scheme into all areas of nursery life.

The children at the

nursery are actively encouraged to participate in the recycling process and are learning how to make the most of all waste materials both at home and at the nursery.

Michelle the nursery manager says that the children really enjoy learning more about our environment and love to explore our outdoor ECO growing areas. The staff team provide the children with numerous positive learning

experiences and promote awareness of how important it is to care for the environment and are determined to ensure that they will be flying the green flag soon.  If you would like more information about how Lillput Nursery are embracing the recylcing process then please call 01383 626 261 or visit the nurseries website www. lilliput-nursery.co.uk and download a prospectus today.

Awards announced

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he shortlist for the Blue Peter Book Awards 2012 has been announced, celebrating the best authors and greatest reads for children. This year’s shortlist includes a fact book about the 2012 Olympics, a treasure trove of information about the extremes of the planet, a novel that investigates those strange howls in the night, and a tale of time travel and tragedy.

The shortlisted books will be judged by more than 200 young Blue Peter viewers from 10 schools across the UK, and this year the winner will be announced on a special edition of Blue Peter to coincide with World Book Day in March.  www.booktrust.org.uk

Opening Spring 2012

Lauriston Nursery

NURSERY

High quality childcare and education in a cosy home from home environment on the outskirts of Kelty.

Tel: 07714788484

E: cleverclogschildcare@yahoo.co.uk

www.cleverclogs-childcare.co.uk www.familiesfife.co.uk

For more information call

01383 741900

www.lauristonnursery.com

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

most environmentally friendly, purpose built nursery.

Our children have the World at their feet Issue 12 Families Fife | 7

Focus on recycling

Reduce, reuse recycle in 2012

By Susan Kirkwood

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wondered why my mum looked at me quizzically the other day when I asked her where they kept their waste bin. She said ‘Susan you seem to have a mental block about this’. The confusion, it turns out, stems from the fact that in Edinburgh grey bins are green. And so the bright green bin, which as a Fife resident, I could be forgiven for thinking was for cans and plastics, in Edinburgh is for the generic ‘rubbish’.

But what is rubbish? Well, there are many answers to that. One is that one person’s rubbish is another’s treasure – more of that in our creative section – see opposite!

Another answer is that soon, there will be no such thing as simply ‘rubbish’. When the council in Fife has rolled out it’s new 4 bin service throughout the Kingdom, it won’t so much be ‘put the rubbish out’ but ‘sort the rubbish out’. What are you putting out? Is it paper? Is it potato peelings? Is it last night’s take away containers?

Most of us, are already sorting out our waste to quite a high degree. Indeed, in 2010/11 Fife achieved a recycling rate of 48.1%. This is the percentage of waste we recycle, compost or incinerate and the figure against which all local authorities are compared. This puts Fife third in the national league table behind Clackmannanshire and Falkirk. Perth achieved a rate of 46.7%. But is it enough? For the answer I guess it depends who you ask. I’d say no and I am sure many would agree with me. The councils certainly

would. In Fife, the recycling rate target for 2013 rises to 50% and by 2025 we ought to be recycling 70% of our waste. So no, we are not doing enough yet.

So why is that? Is it because we don’t see that what we do individually or as families, can really make a difference? If that is the case then it is a total misconception – think about it. In 2010 there were approximately 161,274 households in Fife and 147,780 in Perth. So, if one person in each house recycled one bottle a year that would be over 300,000 bottles. Or one bottle a month, would equal 3.6 million bottles or one a week would be 15.6 million bottles! That is the collective power of the community. So, let’s look at some simple ways that we can all help negate our environmental impact. ÊÊ Packaging choices It does seem, when you bring home your shopping, that there is an awful lot of packaging that is surplus to requirements.

Quite often, there doesn’t seem much you can do about this but in fact you can. You can stop buying the croissants that are in the big plastic package. Embrace the risk of the crushed croissant! Alternatively, you can opt to shop locally buying more and more food from the producers. A positive example of this are those families already signed up to the Fife Diet, choosing to eat what they can source in the local region. Apparently, 35 of the major grocery retailers, suppliers and brands have

signed up to a voluntary agreement called the Courtauld Commitment. This aims to design-out grocery packaging waste and help reduce the amount of food we throw away.

But is it working? The results tend to speak for themselves. ÊÊ Eat the food you buy According to the Zero Waste Scotland’s website, consumers in Scotland alone waste over £1 billion worth of food. This equates to £430 per household. We throw away a staggering 566,000 tonnes of food every year. More surprising still is the fact that two thirds of this food was good to eat and £18 million worth is still in date. In real terms this food waste equates to 1.7 million tonnes of wasted carbon dioxide each year in Scotland.

It is equivalent to taking every fourth car off the road. Easy solutions abound here. Make

Zero Waste Volunteers

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ould you like to become a waste champion? Perth & Kinross Council has a programme to spread the message of reducing waste. The ten volunteers newly on board have already received training in the national zero waste campaigns which they can promote in their area such as Love Food Hate Waste, and Stop the Drop.

Those who have signed up for the programme also have the opportunity to earn zero waste goodies and access related incentives as a thank you for their support, when they undertake various

8 | Families Fife Issue 12

Perth & Kinross, including Blairgowrie, Auchterarder, Errol and Invergowrie so if you’re looking for waste reduction tips there’s likely to be someone keen near you who can help! We are also interested in hearing from anyone who is holding any events in the next few months or has any space for an information stand.”  activities including writing news items, giving a talk and attending or organising events.

Volunteer Coordinator Jennifer Aird said: “Volunteers are based all over

The next training day for local Zero Waste volunteers is March 5th at 6.30pm at Glenearn Campus, Perth, but people should contact Jennifer Aird zerowastevols@pkc.gov.uk for more information.

www.familiesfife.co.uk

Creative recycling projects

That’s not rubbish mummy – that’s junk!

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here is no such thing as rubbish when you have young kids. In fact, the minute you find out your are pregnant, go and get your household a giant, attractive recycling bag [you will use it a lot so you’d better like looking at it!]. From now on, every toilet roll inner, eggbox, yoghurt pot can be washed out and stored for foetus’s future use. My children are positively indignant if I try to discard anything that could be a robot leg or a future rocket.

I had 2 cardboard crocodiles under the bed for as many years till recently.

more soup! Eat banana muffins. Buy for 2 days at a time not two weeks, use your freezer, look to buy food with long sell by dates. Plan your family meals before setting foot in a supermarket. Use farmers markets to buy less of what you fancy more and savour the flavour. ÊÊ New parents? Consider using Real nappies Real nappies make good economic sense as well as being kinder to the environment.

Using even just one reusable nappy instead of one disposable nappy each day has the potential to save a family over £40 a year. You can save around £500 a year by using real nappies and washing them at home. And you can save even more if you use them for your second or third child or buy them secondhand. Using real nappies will reduce your household waste, which goes to landfill sites. ÊÊ Home composting The reason that the government is keen for us to compost is that food and garden waste can break down into methane gas in landfill sites.

A molecule of methane has a greenhouse gas potential 20 times that of CO2.

March sees the introduction in some parts of Fife of new brown food waste caddy to allow households to recycle even food waste. For those of us who are not yet on this system however, it is coming so it may be a good idea to embrace the principles at this stage and to get home composting.

Taken in the right spirit, composting can be fun, think of the wellie aspect/mud potential and bug sighting opportunities!

Getting the children involved will help it become a way of life. Sadly there is not enough space here to give you a definitive guide to home composting but to get one follow the Zero Waste Scotland link over the page. 

www.familiesfife.co.uk

Creative recycling project 1 Japanese Blossom – ideal for Mother’s Day This is a pretty springtime project brought to you from re:make using scrap fabric.

See ad below for their fantastic creative camps this Easter.

You will need: ÊÊ Fallen small branch or selection of long twigs ÊÊ White poster paint ÊÊ Thin light pink fabric ÊÊ Scissors ÊÊ Needle & dark pink thread Find a nice branch such as a silver birch that has fallen to the ground. Allow your branch or twigs to dry indoors overnight and brush off any debris.

Laying down newspaper first and using a large house paintbrush, lightly paint the branch with white paint. The best effect is achieved if the brush is totally dry with just a bit of paint.

Allow to dry, turn the branch over and paint the other side. Leave to dry completely.

For the blossom, cut circles about an eggcup diameter in size from your scrap fabric.

We cut up a thin voile curtain which didn’t fray easily but you could also use any fabric and spray with starch to stop from fraying.

Remember to use sharp dressmaking scissors for cutting fabric so you have a nice clean edge.

And look after those scissors – don’t use them on paper as they will quickly become blunt!

For each flower you will need about 3 or 4 circles roughly the same diameter. Thread your needle and knot so that you have a longish tail after the knot. Gather 3 or 4 circles together and with your needle and thread, sew through the middle at least twice. Pull the thread tight so it secures the circles and give the flower a centre.

Finish up each flower by feeding your needle through to the back of the flower so that you now have 2 tails at the back. Tie these around the branch a few times to secure and then knot.

Place the branch in a nice vase without water!

Families spoke to Jenny Clark, who does a lot of creative recycling and upcycling. Jenny and French husband Stephen, run First Steps in French classes in Kinross and now Perth. ‘We often try to incorporate a strong recycling theme in the craft activities we do in the First Steps in French classes, so the week we did a song about a mill, we had the kids making miniature mills from toilet rolls. Jenny has a lovely idea for reusing those old board books when children grow out of them which she shares here with Families readers. The original idea was to create a book for her own child to give her father for his birthday.

Creative recycling project 2 New look baby book – an Easter Holiday project ÊÊ Find an old board-book that is on it’s last legs. ÊÊ Use fine sandpaper to rough the pages and give a suitable surface to paint on. ÊÊ Paint over the pages in white acrylic paint and allow to dry. ÊÊ Give free-reign for cutting, sticking and glittering.

For younger diarists, Jenny recommends drawing squares on a piece of A4 paper which can either act as a ‘storyboard’ for the real thing or can be cut out and stuck into the book.

Hey presto – a new book is born. 

Issue 12 Families Fife | 9

Parent to parent Where there’s muck, there’s brass

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his adage should perhaps be updated to where there is bright plastic, there is dosh.

Anyone who has had a baby will remember the joys and tears of buying baby equipment.

The tears are the cost of it. So don’t just throw it away – recoup that expense. There are more and more ways to do this. The National Childbirth Trust runs regular nearly new sales which are great for buyers and sellers alike (see page 15 for details of next sale date). You don’t have to be a member to offer items for sale, just get in touch with your local NCT branch.

They have strict criteria on what they sell and insist on good quality, clean items and check that equipment is in full working order. A similar idea, the Jack and Jill markets are where buyers rent a table and sellers simply turn up at the well organized sales and bag a bargain.

The Jack and Jill markets take place most months, currently in Dunfermline or Perth and are always listed on Families website. www. familiesfife.co.uk/whatson. If you don’t have much to sell or have mainly clothes and textiles, then why not simply bag it and take it along to your local Cash for Clothes recycling point?

They will weigh it and give you 50p per kilo which you can keep or donate. Many schools also have charity bins which work on a similar principle with the school benefitting financially from the donated items.  ÊÊ Useful links • fifediet.wordpress.com • www.zerowastescotland.org.uk/ homecomposting • www.scottishfarmersmarkets.co.uk • www.wasteawarelovefood.org.uk • www.greenerkirkcaldy.org.uk • www.keepscotlandbeautiful.org • www.nct.org.uk.

• http://uk.freecycle.org • www.JackandJillMarket.co.uk • www.lothian-recycling.co.uk

10 | Families Fife Issue 12

Jane and Mark Murray live in St. Madoes, 5 minutes outside of Perth on the road to Dundee. Having completed a stint as a full time mum to Mya (7) and Luke (3), Jane is now back handling accounts and marketing for the family business Glenearn Flooring. Husband Mark runs his own business Aerial Adventures which specialises in aerial adventure games primarily for the retail mall and leisure attraction market, www.aerialadventures.co.uk. He is also a director of Waterski Scotland, www. waterskiscotland.com. Jane claims that they have tried to bring up their children to come and go with their activities and NOT the other way about. Well said Jane!

Why do you like living where you do? The village is very friendly with a great community spirit. We feel safe and the kids have a great enviroment for play. The local school has huge grounds with areas dedicated to different sorts of play and sports facilities.

Favourite park: Camperdown Park in Dundee is a great option on a sunny day, there is plenty to amuse the kids. The new park at the North Inch in Perth is a big improvement although I do feel Perth is missing an opportunity by not having a really great destination park.

Favourite children’s club/class: My little boy has started a football class in Bridge of Earn called Little Kicks (www.littlekicks.co.uk). My husband is extremely impressed by the structure, focus on fun and the message of good team spirit the organisers convey.

Favourite day out: We really enjoyed a day out with friends recently at Xscape in Glasgow. The mums took the kids sledging on the indoor ‘real snow’ slopes and the Dads went snowboarding.

Afterwards we all went for dinner in one of the many restaraunts. Once we get our kids up to speed with their skiing we would definitely spend more time there during out of ski season.

Favourite child friendly restaurant: Where the kids are involved I would probably have to say Frankie & Benny’s in Perth. It is totally geared up for families and I do tend to think that anyone going there without kids should know what they are letting themselves in for.

Proudest eco-friendly moment: My sister-in-law, Tanya Ewing, winning British Female inventor of the year with her energy monitoring device ‘EWGECO’ Best planet saving tip: I am probably the worst person to ask!

No parent should be without: Baby wipes or tissues Parenting pet hates: Trying to make a phonecall or having a conversation in

general - there is always a little person vying for the limelight and it is either hard to finish a sentence or hear what the other person is trying to say.

Funniest comment: When we were at the Enchanted Forest in Pitlochry a moth fluttered past it’s wings all aglow in the coloured lights. Mark said to Mya who had just recently lost a tooth ‘oh look Mya that must be the tooth fairy’. Mya replied ‘Don’t be silly Daddy -that’s just a normal fairy’.

Favourite family holiday spot: South of France. My parents have a home there which has become a home from home for us too. It is a beautiful part of the world and we have become very familiar with the area over the past few years and feel it has plenty to offer us as a family.

Best children’s book: ‘Guess How Much I Love You’ by Sam McBratney. I have read this book to my kids countless times.

It’s a very simple story but so lovely.

Best children DVD or video: ‘Bedtime Stories’ I find it hilarious, the kids like it too although I cant wait to see the new Muppets movie!

Most played with toys: Outdoor ones, bikes, scooters ride-ons etc. When indoors Mya has a preference for drawing rather than playing with toys. The Wii has also come in handy over the winter months and they both enjoy playing this together and sometimes it’s a family affair.

Biggest waste of money: When Mya was born we bought a top of the range high chair, really well padded etc.

It drove me crazy as food would get into all the little crevices of the padding etc it was just a nightmare to keep clean.

When Luke came along I refused to go through that again and bought an £11 molded plastic high chair from Ikea - it changed my life!

Most successful recipe/food: I do like to cook and I don’t know that I have a favourite, my daughter is so easy as she will eat most things that I put down. My son on the other hand lives off weetabix and fresh air! 

www.familiesfife.co.uk

Birth, baby and Beyond Better beginnings with the Synergy Centre A pain in the backside

M

ost women accept that they will get some form of backache whilst pregnant but for those that suffer from sciatica it can start to affect their day-today lives and be very debilitating.

Sciatica is inflammation of the sciatic nerve, which runs from the lower back through the buttock and down the leg.

During pregnancy the nerve can be inflamed due to a combination of posture, muscular restriction, hormones, stretching of uterine ligaments and the position of the baby. Generally if you have a shooting pain in your buttock and down into your legs, then you may have sciatica. It can be painful enough to restrict movement, especially certain actions such as getting in

or out a chair, or going upstairs. It is more common in the 2nd and 3rd trimester but can occur earlier, especially if you have previously suffered from low back problems.

The best way of dealing with it is to seek pregnancy massage or osteopathy where the muscles can be relieved and advice can be given on specific situations. Regular stretching and maintaining the muscles through activities such as pregnancy yoga or aquafit classes, or swimming will also help. Note that the breaststroke is not ideal for sciatica; you are better sticking to the back stroke or crawl, or perhaps just use a float and kick your feet.

When doing any activity, try to work the core muscles behind the baby, as these are the ones that are important for supporting your posture.

Maternity move F

or the first time since 1976, expecting mothers of Fife will no longer give birth in Forth Park Hospital. New mums will now give birth in the new Maternity Wing of the Phase Three Victoria Hospital (try saying that, in labour to a taxi driver!). There is no doubt about it, the new unit is state of the art. Gone are the drafty windows piled up with towels and blankets that I remember from daring to give birth on a chilly Hogmanay. But the emphasis of the new wing is not only on equipment and fancy kit to ensure the safe Available in Fife and surrounding areas

Person Centred Homecare helping people in their homes

delivery of babies but rather on the human side. Post natal mothers are encouraged to bring their own toiletries to help them relax after their birth experience and to bring magazines to read and music to listen to.

They learn how to be with their baby but also how to relax. For this reason, new parents are encouraged to use their mobiles only to text close family and friends who can ‘spread the word’. Maternity nurses know how important Improve the way you look, move and feel with Aspire Pilates.

Offering person centred nursing and maternity care to people in their own homes. Call 07913 690773 to discuss how we can help you.

aspire

P I L AT E S Pilates Matwork classes n� Pilates 1-1 and small group sessions n� Spirals movement classes n�

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 www.familiesfife.co.uk

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

Getting out of bed can be enough to set off a painful spasm for some people, so to reduce this try rolling on one side and letting the legs dangle off the bed, allowing their weight to help you up to seated.

After the birth, sciatica usually eases, but to reduce the chance of it reoccurring, especially as lifting and carrying the baby can exacerbate the low back, aim to maintain the muscles with continued stretches and exercise. Having low back problems is no fun, especially when you have a small child needing cared for, so keeping on top of your back health is vital.  Jennifer Syme specialises in Pregnancy Massage and Remedial Massage – see www.jstherapies.co.uk for further information.

the time just post birth is and encourage mums and dads to take these first steps as a new family unit, supported but without too much intervention, either from the staff or from well- meaning relatives and friends.

Parents need space to develop confidence in their new roles and it is the genuine aim of all the staff at the unit to listen to the needs of the new parents and to respond to these thus sending home confident parents.

Good news too. The unit has retained its Baby Friendly Accreditation Award for another year in its move to its new home. The Infant feeding Team can be contacted on 0152729204 or text 07810637767. They are located in the VHK Phase 3, 2nd floor in the postnatal ward for the 'Drop in Clinic' Weekdays 11.30 - 14.00. (apart from public holidays). Last arrival time 13.30.

Parking from Hayfield Road end has a manned barrier to allow visitor access for clinics. 

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 12 Families Fife | 11

Clubs and classes: familiesfife.co.uk/whatson Clubs and Classes news

J

o Jingles offer fun, interactive and educational music and movement classes for babies, toddlers and pre-schoolers. Their new term starts from Monday 16th April and they have classes in Duloch, Kirkcaldy, Dalgety Bay and Dunfermline. If you’d like to book a free trial class call Julie on 01383 734080 or emailjojinglesfife@ hotmail.co.uk Babies under 6 months receive their first 4 weeks classes free!

They also do children’s birthday parties and can provide tailored sessions in playgroups and nurseries too. Julie would love to have you come and join in with our jingling fun!

STOP PRESS* 1st Steps Dance and Movement have announced new classes on Fridays in Auchermuchty and in Freuchie.

Email Elizabeth for more details: elizabeth_ dancedaze@hotmail.co.uk elizabeth_ dancedaze@hotmail.co.uk

For full listings, scan this QR code with your smart phone

First Steps in French The Culturefrog team brings you First Steps in French - a great way for children to start exploring the sounds of a new language. The fun of games, stories, songs and craft activities, combined with early French immersion helps children develop an ear for the language, laying down the foundations for future learning and many other skills. Why start languages early? Why wait?! For information on classes for Under 5’s or after school in Perth, Kinross or Edinburgh, or to find out about nursery sessions, contact Jenny: jenny@culturefrog.com, 0131 208 1789 or visit our website www.culturefrog.com

Musical Steps

Are about to announce new classes in the Glenrothes area. Check our website for an update or email: rhona.bain@musicalsteps. 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

Jo Jingles is Here!

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

Develop your child’s

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

12 | Families Fife Issue 12

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

One family, two languages

P

arenting in two languages adds another dimension to the usual fun and games of life with children. We’ve got to that stage where we have most of our conversations in capital letters, spelled out across the dinner table.

“Did you get the I-C-E-C-R-E-A-M?” I ask. “Le quoi?” asks Monsieur R, not quite having caught all the letters. I spell it again in French. Monsieur R takes a moment to reassemble the letters before formulating an answer.

Puce looks like she’s watching a tennis match, wondering who’s going to

give the game away and say the word out loud. It doesn’t help that I get the letters mixed up when I spell in French. Or that Monsieur R has trouble visualizing them in English. By which time, Puce has usually guessed what we’re on about, helpfully phonetically spelling out in both languages “ey-esgree-eeem? G-l-aaa-asss?”. Maybe we should try Morse…  Jenny Clark, Strictly Speaking: One Family, Two Languages www. culturefrog.blogspot.com

*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

www.familiesfife.co.uk

Competitons, shopping and offers

Mother’s Day made simple Don’t know what to get mum for Mother’s day? Here are a few ideas…

Stylish and cool

W

hat about something special from Urban Cuckoo? This ubercool online shop has lots to offer discerning gift hunters.

From gorgeous wall art in the shape of antique silver frames, the Frama mirrors will be a hit with stylish mums everywhere. Or what about their decorative ‘in the Woods plates? Organised mums will

love the icelet jewellery stand or perhaps the bauble bird dish. For more inspiration go to www.urbancuckoo.com to treat your mum.

And as everything is despatched beautifully packaged, your biggest problem will be simply, just what to choose. 

Lasting momento

Sweet treat

See our offers page for readers discount code. www.familiesfife.co.uk/offers

H

I

ow about giving mum a really lasting mum-ento for Mother’s day? The Ceramic Experience has Mother’s day covered. Most mums will melt at the sight of a hand painted vase or a hand or footprint mug. Or what about a plant pot to plant out some seedlings or a photo frame for a picture of yours truly?

They are also gearing up for Easter with a great selection of Easter bunnies, chicks, ducklings and novelty eggcups for the kids to paint. Entertainment and productivity rolled into one. Now that is eggciting! 

s your mum a sweet tooth? Well, she’s not alone in that. How about treating her to a dozen custom cupcakes from Candi’s cupcakes. A deliciously decadent treat that hopefully she’ll s hare with the whole family. 

Tel: 07950 488198 or candi.martin@btinternet.com

The Ceramic Experience, Elgin Industrial Estate, Dunfermline, www.theceramicexperience.com Tel: 01383 840640

For stylish and unique gift ideas for Mothers Day and Easter browse online now at...

Custom Cakes & Cupcakes made to order for any occasion

www.urbancuckoo.co.uk

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

The Ceramic Experience Dunfermline

● Ceramic

Painting Studio

● Free ● Cafe

Soft Play

with snacks

● Homebaking ● Easy

Parking & Access

The Ceramic Experience 17b Elgin St. Ind. Estate Dunfermline, KY12 7SN

theceramicexperience.com 10am – 5pm 01383 840640 Open 7 days a week www.familiesfife.co.uk

 Call Susan on 07734 289 143 to advertise here

Competitions WIN TICKETS TO THE SCOTTISH BABY & TODDLER SHOW For your chance to win a pair of tickets simply answer the question below Q. Who will return to the show to talk about brain development in children?

The first 5 correct entries will win a pair of tickets.

TERMS & CONDITIONS: Travel and parking not included. Cannot be used in conjunction with any other discount, offer or promotion. Winners will be contacted by email and tickets will be sent out by the Baby Show.

Pin Yin Panda book competition Edinburgh Zoo and renowned children’s author Sarah Brennan have teamed up to offer five lucky Families Fife readers the opportunity to win a copy of her latest book The Tale of Pin Yin Panda.

The tale follows Pin Yin on her journey to turn the Year of the Dragon into the Year of the Panda! She has beauty, brains and an ego to match, however things don’t go quite as smoothly as planned. This is a must read for any panda fan, the tale delivers Chinese history and culture in a highly entertaining and accessible way.

To be in with your chance of winning your very own copy of The Tale of Pin Yin Panda, all you have to do is answer the following question.

Q: Edinburgh Zoo’s female panda is called Tian Tian but what is the English translation of this?

A) Sunshine B) Sweetie Terms and Conditions: Closing date for entries is 20 APRIL 2012. There is no cash alternative. The prize cannot be exchanged for other retail goods within our gift shop. Only one entry per person and no employees of RZSS are permitted to apply.

Winners will be chosen at random by the Families Fife and contacted by email. Winners will be sent their book by Edinburgh Zoo within 2 weeks of the closing date. All entries will be offered the opportunity to receive further news and offers from Edinburgh Zoo

To enter these competitions and access special offers, simply login to www. familiesfife.co.uk/offers Registering just takes a minute then you will be able to enter lots more competitions and offers in the future.

Issue 12 Families Fife | 13

Out and About: familiesfife.co.uk/whatson March 2012 Friday 2nd – Monday 5th March Chinese State Circus – Yin Yang - Adam Smith Theatre Kirkcaldy An action-packed show from the world’s greatest circus! www.onfife.com Box Office 01592 583302

Monday 5th March Training day for local Zero Waste volunteers 6.30pm at Glenearn Campus, Perth. Contact Jennifer Aird on zerowastevols@pkc.gov.uk for more information.

Friday 9th March The Attic 11am + 2pm Studio, Perth Theatre Grandma and Lucy are up in the attic where all the memories are stored. For children aged 3-5, their parents and carers. www.horsecross.co.uk Tel: 0845 612 6324

9th March – 18th March Fife Science Festival THROUGHOUT FIFE Tel: 01382 868610 www.fifesciencefestival.org.uk

Saturday 17th March Jack and Jill Market The Vine Venus Dunfermline 10:30 AM - 01:30 PM Baby & Kids markets (0-9 years). Book a stall to sell your items, or come along to market day for great bargains. www.jackandjillmarket.co.uk Easter Treats Chocolate Making Workshop: Duloch Library Art Room 1- 5pm Mould a chocolate gift box. Decorate eggs ‘Faberge-style’.

Make 4 solid chocolate cupcakes and edible cake stand. Make gorgeous truffles. £35 for 4 hour workshop. www.umbrellafife.org.uk

Easter Camps

Mon 2nd – Fri 6th April 2012

Spring into Creative Adventures with Remake and Do It Outdoors This year Remake (www.remakescotland.co.uk) have teamed up with Do It Outdoors to run the Spring workshops at Ardvreck School in Crieff. Workshops are open to children aged 5-12 years with prices ranging from £12.50 for a morning or afternoon workshop, £20 for full day and £90 for a full week.

Remake specialise in craft and construction workshops finding new uses for reclaimed, scrounged and found objects.

To Fri 13 April th

Cluny Clays Easter Camps At the day camps children can try new activities which are fun and educational, make new friends and most of all have lots of fun! Wide range of activities, including sports, arts & crafts. For children aged 5 - 14 years .www.clunykids.co.uk

Mon 2nd – Fri 6th April & Mon 9th- Fri13th April Easter Holiday Clubs (for ages 7-12) Centre for Stewardship Falkland 10am-3.30pm. Our

14 | Families Fife Issue 12

Friday 30th March Cairnie Fruit Farm & Mega Maze will open for the 2012 season

Saturday 31st March Jack and Jill Market North Inch Campus Perth 10:30 AM - 01:30 PM Baby & Kids markets (0-9 years). Book a stall to sell your items, or come along to market day for great bargains. www.jackandjillmarket.co.uk

Sunday 1st April The Owl and the Pussycat Adam Smith Theatre Kirkcaldy 3pm. www.onfife.com. 01592 583302 Cluny Clays Kids adventure park open day 1pm – 4pm, new attractions in the adventure play area. www.clunyclays.co.uk

17th March until 13th May Wemyss & other wares exhibition St Andrews Museum free. During the Easter holiday the following events events are runnning

April 2012 Tuesday 3rd April Pots, pots and more pots. St Andrews Museum Morning Create your own pot and get messy! For 4-8 years. FREE but please pre-book on 01334 659380. www.fifedirect.org.uk/museums Go Potty for Easter Mugs. St Andrews Museum Afternoon. Decorate your own pottery mug taking inspiration from the beautiful pots on display in the Museum. For 7-12 years. £3 (£2.50 with Fifestyle Card). Book on 01334 659380. www.fifedirect.org.uk/museums

Holiday Clubs offer kids the chance to spend a week on Falkland Estate trying out new skills, enjoying outdoor activities and having a great time along the way. Activities could include den building and bushcraft, treasure hunts, adventure walks, puppet making, arts and crafts. Cost £85 for week. 01337 858838 www.centreforstewardship.org.uk

Wed 11th & Thurs 12th April Easter Artsparks Inspired by Jupiter Artists Shane Waltener and Andy Goldsworthy, this action packed workshop will cover chocolate sculpture, weaving, decoupage and outdoor nest making. It’s full on full day fun for 5 – 14 year olds. 10am to 3.30pm £80 for 2 day workshop Jupiter Artland, Bonnington House steading, Nr Wilkieston Edinburgh, EH27 8BB www.jupiterartland.org

Wednesday 4th April Potty about Cats. St Andrews Museum Morning Find out about the famous Wemyss cats of Fife, dressing up and cat costume making. For 4-8 years. FREE but please pre-book on 01334 659380. www.fifedirect.org.uk/museums Face Painting St Andrews Museum. Afternoon FREE animal face painting based on Wemyss pottery designs. Everyone welcome - just come along. www.fifedirect.org.uk/museums

Friday 6th April Various Easter events at the Byre, St Andrews Easter Egg Hunt. 10am – 5pm. Free.

Easter Bonnet Making Workshop. 10am – 12 noon. Make your own Easter Bonnet in our Easter Bonnet workshop. Either bring your own Bonnet or use one of ours. Egg Painting & Daffodil Making Workshop 2pm – 4pm. £4.

Saturday 7th April Various Easter events at the Byre, St Andrews Easter Egg Hunt. 10am – 5pm. Free.

Easter Art & Craft Fair 10am – 5pm. Free.

Easter Bonnet Making Workshop 10am – 12 noon. £3 with own Bonnet. £5 without per bonnet.

Easter Bonnet Fashion Show 2pm – 4pm. Free.

Show off your bonnet making skills in our fashion show! For tiny toddlers to glamorous grannies.

CADBURY EASTER EGG TRAILS IN FIFE & PERTH Sat 7th & Sun 8th April

Falkland Palace, Falkland, Fife, KY15 7BU. Tel 0844 493 2186 As well as the trail, there’ll be face painting and more! Sat 11am -4pm, Sun 1-4pm.

Usual admission prices apply plus £1 per trail.

Sun 8th & Mon 9th April Hill of Tarvit Mansionhouse Cupar, Fife, KY15 5PB. 12-4pm. Tel 0844 493 2185 As well as the trail, there’ll be face painting and more on Sunday. £2 per trail. If you’d like to visit the house, usual entry prices apply.

Sun 8th & Mon 9th April 12-4.30pm. Culross Palace, Fife, KY12 8JH Tel 0844 493 2189 Trail is included in normal admission price.

Sun 8th & Mon 9th April 12 – 4pm. Kellie Castle & Garden Pittenweem, Fife, KY10 2RF, Tel 0844 439 2184. £2 per trail. If you’d like to visit the castle, usual entry prices apply.

Sat 7th & Sun 8th April 12 – 3pm. Killiecrankie, Pitlochry, Perthshire, PH16 5LG. Tel 0844 493 2194 £2 per trail.

www.familiesfife.co.uk

Sunday 8th April Easter Sunday at East End Park Dunfermline 3 course carvery served between 12pm and 4pm @ only £12.50ph with complimentary teas and coffees for all guests. www.eastendevents.co.uk or www.dafc.co.uk 01383 745901/724295 Cluny Clays Easter party 1pm – 4pm a day of Easter fun for all the family.

Egg decorating, egg rolling, crafts and outdoor activities. www.clunyclays.co.uk

Monday 9th April Various Easter events at the Byre, St Andrews Easter Egg Hunt. 10am – 5pm. Free.

Easter Storytelling 10am – 12 noon. £3. Easter storytelling sessions with Lauren Bianchi telling the tales. Suitable for children of all ages.

Easter Drama Workshop 2pm – 4pm. £9. For ages 7+.

Monday 2nd - Friday 13th April Puppet and Animation Festival See advert below for details

Daft for Crafts - Easter Craft event at the Kingsgate Centre in Dunfermline, Runs till Wed 4th April Tel: 01383 825777

Wednesday 4th April Cloud Man Lochgelly Centre www.onfife.com. 01592 583303

Thursday 5th April Fiddlesticks Carnegie Hall Dunfermline Garlic Theatre conjures a spellbinding tale of rhythmical twists and turns with a lively blend of clowning, rod and shadow puppets, percussion and live music. www.onfife.com. 01383 602302

Saturday 14th & Sunday 15th April

Friday 6th April Funnybones Adam Smith Theatre www.onfife.com. 01592 583302

Saturday 7th April Oscar and the Quest for the Underground Princess Rothes Hallswww.onfife.com, 01592 611101

Monday 2nd April

Sunday 8th April

Fiddlesticks Norie-Miller Studio, Perth Concert Hall A spellbinding tale of rhythmical twists and turns with a lively blend of clowning, rod and shadow puppets, percussion and live music. www.horsecross.co.uk 0845 612 6324 Potato Needs a Bath Carnegie Hall Dunfermline A light-hearted, gentle and highly visual show featuring fruit, veg and original music. www. onfife.com Box Office 01383 602302

The Pea, The Bean and The Enormous Turnip Adam Smith Theatre www.onfife.com 01592 583302

Charlie and Lola’s Best Bestest Play Lochgelly Centre The stars of the hit BBC TV series and books by Lauren Child are brought to life by a magical mix of puppets, live action and music. www.onfife.com Tel: 01592 583302

Sunday 15th April The National Children’s Orchestra of Scotland Perth Concert Hall 7pm Scotland’s National Children’s Orchestra joined by Dutch conductor and broadcaster Roland Kieft .

Sunday 22nd April

Monday 9th April Peter and the Wolf Norie-Miller Studio, Perth Concert Hall. A large scale puppet show with life-sized animal puppets and actors, it’s ideal for family audiences. www.horsecross.co.uk 0845 612 6324

Tuesday 3rd April

Wednesday 11th April

The Selfish Giant Norie-Miller Studio, Perth Concert Hall. The Selfish Giant, it is performed with found objects, puppets and shadows and is intended to be a gentle introduction to puppet theatre. www.horsecross.co.uk 0845 612 6324 Thumbelina Carnegie Hall, Dunfermline Thumbelina is the perfect introduction to puppet theatre for young children. www.onfife.com. 01383 602302

Friday 13th April The Pea, the Bean and the Enormous Turnip Norie-Miller Studio, Perth Concert Hall www.horsecross.co.uk. 0845 612 6324 Funnybones Lochgelly Centre www.onfife.com 01383 602302 Science Museum Live on Tour Carnegie Hall Dunfermline Experience spectacular science, dangerous demonstrations and extraordinary experiments as the Science Museum takes to the stage with a fantastic live show. Runs till Saturday 14th www.onfife.com. 01383 602302

Peter and the Wolf - Carnegie Hall www.onfife.com. 01383 602302

Thursday 12th – Sunday 15th April The Singing Kettle Shake, Rattle and Roll Adam Smith Theatre Kirkcaldy Bang a pot, shake a storage tin, bring anything you can to make a din – then play along with The Singing Kettle in this brand new musical extravaganza. www.onfife.com. 01592 583302

Children’s Classic Concerts: All Drummed Up: 1.30pm + 3pm Norie-Miller Studio, Perth Concert Hall Workshops last roughly 45 minutes, family friendly- any age plus parents £5 Whilst every care has been taken to compile the Out and About section with accuracy, please remember to check with the venue before making plans to avoid any disappointment as Families magazine is put together weeks in advance of actual publication.

www.onfife.com

Puppet Animation Festival Across all our venues I performances start at 11am I £4.50, conc. £3.50

Mon 2 April

Shona Reppe Puppets Potato Needs a Bath

Tue 3 April

Norwich Puppet Theatre Thumbelina

Carnegie Hall Studio

Wed 4 April

Ailie Cohen Puppet Maker Cloud Man

The Lochgelly Centre Studio

Thur 5 April

Garlic Theatre Fiddlesticks

Carnegie Hall Studio

Fri 6 April

The Puppet Lab Funnybones

Adam Smith Theatre Studio

Sat 7 April

Mousetale Puppets Oscar & the Quest for the Underground Princess

Rothes Halls Studio

Sun 8 April

Storybox Theatre The Pea, The Bean & The Enormous Turnip Adam Smith Theatre Studio

Wed 11 April Clydebuilt Puppet Theatre Peter & The Wolf Fri 13 April The Puppet Lab Funnybones

Carnegie Hall Studio

Carnegie Hall Main Auditorium The Lochgelly Centre Studio

Local parents selling top quality baby and children’s clothes toys and equipment at bargain prices!

Saturday 21st April 2012 12 - 2pm (11:30 for NCT members with membership card) Admission £1 in aid of NCT charity Refreshments will be available

NCT is

a regis

tered char

ity (No.

801395)

The Vine Church,131 Garvock Hill, Dunfermline For more information please call 0844 243 6110 or email fifenct-nns@hotmail.co.uk

01592 583302

www.familiesfife.co.uk

01592 611101

01383 602302

01592 583303

www.nct.org.uk/branches/dunfermline

Issue 12 Families Fife | 15

Take life on, one step at a time.

16 | Families Fife Issue 12

www.familiesfife.co.uk