Families Central Scotland Jul-Aug 2103

FREE

Central Scotland’s really useful magazine for busy families of children age 0-12

Issue 17 July/Aug 2013

In This Issue

• Great ideas for the Summer holidays • Back to school • Out and about guide

Celebration Candy Cart Cart hire and candy buffet services throughout Central Scotland, including pick & mix stand and kids party bags. www.celebrationcandycart.co.uk 07896 971258 www.facebook.com/CelebrationCandyCart @candy_cart

WIN a family ticket to Doune the Rabbit Hole Music Festival

Is your next local Jack & Jill Market on this weekend? www.jackandjillm arket.co.uk Scotland’s Quality Nearly-New Baby & Children’s Market

info@singledup.co.uk

www.familiescentralscotland.co.uk

editor@familiescentralscotland.co.uk

07506 697509

079302 64979

Keep the kids busy all Summer holidays with Falkirk Community Trust Multi-sport activities, free craft sessions, Outdoor activities, cinema and much more...

For full details visit us online at -

Beaconhurst Nursery is officially ‘Excellent’ Our Nursery, or Junior Start as we call it, has recently been awarded an ‘Excellent’ in Care & Support, Quality of Environment & Staffing and Management & Leadership by the national independent body, Care Inspectorate.

This prestigious accolade is testimony to the unique learning environment at Beaconhurst.

Contact Laura John now and learn more about what makes us excellent!

‒ New, highly compet it ive rates ‒ ‘Wrap -a round ’ ca re from 8a m to 6pm ‒ A 46 week package ‒ 1 teacher for ever y 8 children ‒ Diverse teaching: from learning Spanish to unrivalled outdoor education

Tel. 01786 832146 www.beaconhurst.com

Discover yourself at Beaconhurst

contents Local news and views....................................4-6 Central Scotland’s

really useful magazin

e for busy families

of children age 0-12

FREE Issue 17 July/Aug 2013

Hi and welcome to the July/August issue of Families Central Scotland.

The summer holidays are here but don’t panic, in this issue we have lots of great ideas to keep the kids happy and active throughout the summer. If you are planning a holiday over the summer we have some top tips for travelling with the kids and our ‘Back to school’ feature is a must for all parents – those who are returning to school with their kids and those who are starting school/nursery for the very first time. All our regular features are inside and make sure you read through the’ Out and about’ which is packed with fantastic events across Stirling, Falkirk and Clacks.

Happy holidays!!!

Nursery news......................................................... 7

In This Issue

• Great ideas for the Summer holiday s • Back to school • Out and about guide

Celebration Candy Cart

WIN a family ticket to Doune the Rabbit Hole Music Festival

Is your next local Jack & Jill Market on this weekend? www.jackand

Cart hire and candy throughout Central buffet services pick & mix stand andScotland, including kids party bags. www.celebration candycart.co.uk 07896 971258

CelebrationCandyCa

Scotland’s Quality Nearly-New Baby & Children’s Market

rt

info@singledup.c o.uk

www.familiescent

Ideas for the summer holidays............10-11

jillm arket.co.uk

www.facebook.com/

@candy_cart

Top tips for travelling with kids.................8-9

ralscotland.co.uk

editor@familiesce

ntralscotland.co.u

k

07506 697509

079302 64979

Back to school feature.............................12-14 Parent to parent..................................................15 Out and about.............................................17-19

Fiona & Louise the editors Win a family ticket to the Doune the Rabbit Hole Festival ..................................page 5

contact us To have your event listed in our magazine or to advertise with us email editor@familiescentralscotland.co.uk Bookings are now being taken for the September/October issue - deadline 1st August Visit our website for more articles and our local directory www.familiescentralscotland.co.uk Find us on facebook www.facebook.com/FamCS and on twitter @familiescentral Circulation 12 000 copies delivered directly to nurseries, playgroups, health centres, libraries, leisure facilities as well as selected shops, cafes and schools.

Please contact us if you wish to receive our media pack, detailing costs and sizes of adverts.

Design – Gillian Lamb of Lamb Designs Printers – J Thomson Colour Printers Families Central Scotland is part of a larger group of magazines headed

by Families SW London who are celebrating 20 years of publishing. All Franchised magazines are operated under licence. 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 are sent at the owners own risk and while every care is taken neither families nor its agents accept liability for loss or damage.

3

Off the Page Now in its eighth year, Off the Page is once more bringing an exciting line-up of writers, poets and entertainers to Stirling in a wide-ranging celebration of the written word. The authors appearing as part of the full programme of children’s events will include Barry Hutchison and Jonathan Meres; winners of the two older categories in the Scottish Children’s Book Awards 2012. Family events include a Bright Bricks Lego building event and a Doctor Who 50th anniversary session with Daniel Blythe.

off the page

Events are taking place throughout the Stirling Council area, so something is sure to be happening near you! Pick up a brochure from your local library or check out our Facebook page. www.facebook.com/offthepagefestival

New on-line community for single parents Singled Up Ltd has now launched its On-line Community. This community has been set up to allow you wonderful single parents to chat, encourage and support each other in achieving your professional and/or personal goals. You can sign up for FREE at www.singledup.co.uk/community and meet other single parents experiencing the same challenges you are at home, work, in education or starting/owning your own business.

Sublime Celebrations!

Sublime Events Scotland offers a fresh approach to party planning. Whether it’s simply to provide party supplies, decorations, favours, party bags, candy buffet, cake or you want us to plan it all for you, we are more than happy to help.

M: 07449 068 230 E: anna@sublimeeventsscotland.co.uk www.sublimeeventsscotland.co.uk/balloons www.facebook.com/sublimeeventsscotland

Falkirk’s new fantastic flavours!

The Milk Barn is now open! A new ice cream parlour, coffee shop and farm shop has opened at The Glen Farm in Falkirk. Situated on a working dairy farm, The MIlk Barn is very child friendly with indoor toys and an outdoor play area. The coffee shop provides fantastic homemade refreshments and the farm shop has lots of local produce. Learn about the process of cow to cone, enjoy a fun, delicious educational day out for all the family and have a try at milking our fibreglass cow. Children’s parties available. Open 9.30am ‘til 5pm every day. The Milk Barn, Glen Farm, Glen Village, Falkirk, FK1 3AA. Contact Suzannah on 01324 630703 or visit www.themilkbarn.co.uk

This community is available to ALL single parents wherever you are based. The community’s main aim is to create a portal of support that is not available to you elsewhere. www.singledup.co.uk info@singledup.co.uk 07506 697509

Is the Xbox taking over?

Do the kids only put down the DS to pick up the Play Station?

Give yourself and your loved ones the opportunity to think strategically; to calculate, plot, avenge and have fun together, playing and socialising at Common Ground Games.

Located in Central Stirling, we’ve the largest dedicated games room north of the border. With tables for 70 to play Magic, Yu-Gi-Oh, board or role play as well as 20 custom built tables for all types of wargaming.

Bring your favourite game to share or select something new from our shop which offers a wide range, covering all genres. We also stock all major miniature ranges from Games Workshop to Hell Dorado and everything in between.

Our cafe serves barista coffee, toasties and snacks with additional space to comfortably relax. If you cannot tear yourself away, order from the games room and keep playing! Common Ground Games, 40 Cowane Street, Stirling. www.commongroundgames.co.uk

Cherry Tree Nursery Full and part time places Fully qualified experienced staff

 

Caters for children from birth to 5 years Large secure outdoor walled garden Open from 8:00am-6:00pm 51 weeks per year Established Children’s Nursery providing quality childcare Located at Beancross Farm Polmont with easy access to motorways Contact Anne/Kathrine @ 01324 716900 Email: 1cherrytree@btconnect.com

4

families central scotland / issue 16

   

  

Hypnobirthing – calm and natural Learn everything you need on how to birth your baby in a calm and natural way. Come to understand that childbirth does not necessarily need to cause pain and gain the confidence to birth your baby in the way you want to. During the 5 week course you and your birthing companion will learn how to work with your birthing body, using relaxation, breathing, visualisation and self-hypnosis techniques. Classes are informal and fun and teaching involves watching some hypnobirthing DVDs, some practical work and some relaxation and hypnosis techniques that you then practice at home. Group classes or private classes are both available with a discount for groups. More information on www.hmh-therapy.co.uk/hypnobirthing or call 07787807609

Thumbs up for new virtual visitor and education centre It’s a brand new innovation for the Hillfoots area and the only one of its type in the Scottish Central Belt – a Virtual Visitor & Education Centre which is bringing the history and heritage of the area to life at the click of a mouse. The Ochils Landscape Partnership, recently unveiled the new Virtual Centre at the Family Friendly Ochils Fest Day, which took place at Dumyat Centre in Menstrie on Saturday 15th June.

One of the aims of the Ochils Landscape Partnership in developing this Virtual Centre was to ensure that it brings the fascinating history and heritage of the Ochils and Hillfoots to life for those who are less physically able to visit in person some of the places that are being improved through the partnership – the hills, the rivers, the woodland parks, the ancient kirkyards. All the apps are free to download!

For more information visit : www.ochils.org.uk

Doune the Rabbit Hole For alternative family fun this August go Doune The Rabbit Hole! August 22nd - 25th sees the fourth Doune The Rabbit Hole, the small-scale, family-friendly music and arts festival which this year takes place at Cardross Estate, near the Lake of Menteith in Stirlingshire.

As well as a great array of musical acts including Clinic, Alasdair Roberts & Friends, July, Orkestra del Sol, Rachel Sermanni, Robyn Hitchcock, The Pastels and PAWS, the festival will offer lots of activities for younger visitors and their families.

Full weekend camping tickets are £78 in advance for adults (a saving of £10 on the full price if bought before August 1st), £48 for children aged 12-16, and accompanied under 12s go for free. Tickets are on sale now from www.dounetherabbithole.co.uk

Competition Win! a family weekend ticket to the Doune the Rabbit Hole Festival Simply email editor@familiescentralscotland.co.uk to enter the prize draw

Closing date 26th July

Lecropt Nursery • Easy drop off and pick up point • Located near local train station and bus stops nearby • Daycare for 3 mths - 5 years old • Child centred care • Large outdoor secure play area • Healthy snacks provided • Full & Part Time Places • Professional & Experienced Early Years Practitioners • Member of NDNA • Established 2003 • Mon Fri 8 am. 6 pm • work in partnership with the local authority

Tel 01786 834596 www.lecropt-nursery.co.uk

Old Doune Road Nursery • Easy drop off and pick up point • Located near local train station and bus stops nearby • Daycare for 3 mths - 5 years old • Child centred care • Large outdoor secure play area • Healthy snacks provided • Full & Part Time Places • Professional & Experienced Early Years Practitioners • Member of NDNA • Established 2006 • Mon - Fri 8 am - 6 pm • work in partnership with the local authority

Tel: 01786 822854 www.olddouneroadnursery.co.uk 4A Old Doune Road. Dunblane, FKI5 9AG

Bridge of Allan OSC After school care dedicated to Bridge of Allan Primary Provided on school premises Term Time - Mon to Fri, 3.15 till 6.00 pm • • • •

Enjoy healthy snacks A place for children to relax Or simply just have fun Service provider also owns the wellestablished Lecropt Nursery

For further details please contact Lorna Jack Mob: 07812997850 Email: manager@bofa-outofschool.co.uk

5

Hippodrome introduces autism friendly screenings

Summer reading challenge 2013

Falkirk Community Trust has announced that a season of autism friendly screenings for young people with autism and their families will be piloted this summer. Specially adapted screenings will ensure that, for selected showings, the film and the cinema environment within the Hippodrome will be suitable for children with autism spectrum disorders and/or sensory hypersensitivity.

The screenings are priced as normal and everyone is welcome to attend but the following modifications will be observed: • no adverts / trailers • modified lighting (ie. brighter lit in the auditorium) • reduced volume • a relaxed approach to moving from your seat • the option to bring your own refreshments if specific dietary requirements are not available from the Hippodrome café.

Alison Strauss, Arts Development Officer, said “At the Hippodrome we want to play our part in making great cinema experiences part of everyone’s childhood. One of the biggest anxieties faced by parents of children with autism is taking them in to environments that might cause them distress. By making the small adjustments we have planned, more families can enjoy a trip to the Hippodrome. And families with children who do not all have autism, and who otherwise have to organise separate activities, can experience their outing together. This is an important development for our programme and I am looking forward to hearing the feedback of the pilot from our audiences.”

Hippodrome, 10 Hope Street, Bo’ness 01324 506850

Children’s reading can ‘dip’ during the summer and research shows that taking part in the Summer Reading Challenge can help children keep up their reading skills during the long summer holiday. The annual Summer Reading Challenge helps get three quarters of a million children aged 4-11 into libraries to keep up their reading skills and confidence over the summer break. Children are encouraged to read six books from whatever genre they like - fact books, joke books, picture books, audio books - just as long as they are borrowed from the library. Each year sees a different theme - this year it’s ‘Creepy House’. Each time your child finishes a book they’ll receive stickers and rewards - and there’s a certificate for everyone who finishes. It doesn’t matter what level your child is at either as the challenge is open to children of all reading abilities.

Your child’s school will probably give you some information but if you want to know more pop into your local library or visit www. creepy-house.co.uk where you’ll find out all about the challenge.

You’ll also find a brilliant ‘book sorter’ which allows children to search for books that will suit their age and tastes.

NYCoS Mini Music Makers Mini Music Makers runs 15 groups across Scotland, of which 2 are in Falkirk(Tuesday) and Stirling(Wednesday) . The classes have been specially developed to give babies and children, aged 0-5 years, an engaging introduction to music making. Weekly 40-minute sessions give you and your child the opportunity to make and enjoy music together in a fun and friendly setting. At Mini Music Makers the main emphasis is on learning subconsciously through fun activities. Your child is sure to enjoy participating in circle games with parachutes, singing songs with puppets, tapping drums and shaking shakers with the group. The structured NYCoS method offers your child a progressive journey through musical learning. Research in this area has shown that early musical activity can have huge benefits in many areas of child development including language, motor skills, memory and concentration. This is not only an opportunity to develop your bond with your child as you explore music together, but it is a chance for you to meet and socialise with like-minded parents of other young children in a relaxed environment.

Find out more at www.nycos.co.uk 0141 287 2943

Where the stars of the future shine!

ALLOA, FALKIRK, STIRLING and now GLASGOW

5% off your first year for all new bookings July-August

www.littlestarsnurseries.co.uk 6

families central scotland / issue 17

nursery news

Beaconhurst Nursery

At Beaconhurst, we know you want an exceptional education for your child, which is why we provide the highest standards of care and learning right from the very beginning. Our award winning nursery has recently been given the highest accolade possible by the Care Inspectorate, in every aspect of its practice.

Our priority is to offer a stimulating environment for your child, where imagination and enthusiasm for learning can flourish.

Wherever your child’s potential lies, we excel at bringing out their individual strengths from an early age. Beaconhurst is dedicated to helping all our young children become motivated, enthusiastic and responsible adults, with a lifelong desire to learn.

Situated in a fantastic campus in Beaconhurst School, in the heart of Bridge of Allan, our nursery caters for 3-5 year olds and is open from 8am -6pm weekdays. We have recently developed a unique 46 week package starting in August 2013 which means that the nursery will be open outwith the school term for the first time.

Add that to our highly competitive fees, home cooked hot lunches, outdoor education activities and language lessons and you can start to see why we are so highly rated by our parents. www.beaconhurst.com

Arnhall Nursery – Open Day, Saturday 14th September

Little Stars – Where the stars of the future shine!

Little Stars are a family group of nurseries offering quality nursery services in Central Scotland. Little Stars in Alloa opened over 14 years ago with Falkirk Stadium, Stirling and Glasgow opening within the last 7 years. Little Stars, Stirling is based within 20 acres of parkland and beautiful gardens. The children spend as much time outside as they can with a 100m gym trail, outdoor classroom, play park and a woodland forest on their doorstep. All of the nurseries were graded as very good in their most recent inspections which looked at Care and Support, Environment, Staffing and Management. Little Stars aim is to care for your child in a warm, secure and stimulating environment designed around the needs of your child.

Little Stars are now taking bookings for the next term with 5% off your whole years bill for bookings made in July and August.

Call 01786 445552 for more information and to book a show around the nursery. www.littlestarsnurseries.co.uk

First Steps Nursery Learning through the seasons

We have been established in the At First Steps the aim of our beautiful rural surroundings of the Nursery is to be a safe, happy and Keir Estate, on the outskirts of secure environment, where your Dunblane, for over 20 years and child will be cared for and looked after by our highly experienced operate in partnership with Stirling and qualified staff team. We offer a very competitive “Schedule of Council. Following Curriculum for Fees” with various discounts depending on the place that you book.

Excellence and Pre-Birth to Three Book a place of 3 – 5 full days per week for a pre-school age child planning, children from birth up to 5 years receive high quality childcare and First Steps will match the free pre – school grant. (ante pre – by qualified and fully trained staff; working closely with parents to school excluded ) 10% discount for all new bookings in 2013 ( for ensure an excellent service is provided at all times. Nutritional meals first 6 months minimum 3 sessions per week). are provided by our in-house chef enabling your child to experience We will help your child to develop through risk taking and a variety of homemade foods. Open all year round between 7.30am challenging experiences, which will build their self esteem and and 6.30pm we have ample car parking facilities for drop-off and confidence in their own abilities and which will enable them to picking up. Children who come to Arnhall will experience playtime become confident individuals. At First Steps we value outdoor in our fabulous gardens/outdoor classroom and enjoy woodland walks. We work alongside outside agencies for activities and arrange learning and give children lots of outdoor experiences. First Steps Day Nursery, Allandale View, Glasgow Road, Longcroft, FK4 1QN visits to local attractions for all age groups throughout the year.

01324 876949 www.firststepsnursery-longcroft.co.uk Come to our Open Day on 14th September , we look forward to meeting you!! To arrange a visit, or for further details please contact the Nursery direct on 01786 822391.

MMM_advert_families_mag_Layout 1 copy 1 31/05/2013 10:18 Page 1

Music classes for the under 5s Join in, listen and learn as singing, games and rhymes bring music to life for you and your little one Mini Music Makers available in: Falkirk (Tuesdays) Stirling (Wednesdays)

Find out more: www.nycos.co.uk

0141 287 2943

kirsty@rugbytots.co.uk

7

Top tips for travelling with kids

The Big Summer Holiday - Tips for Travellers •

•

•

Y

ippee! It’s the break we’ve all been dreaming of and looking forward to through the dank winter and spring months – here comes this year’s summer holiday. Hands up who remembers when it was just you and your beloved, grabbing a cheap deal, filling a backpack at the last minute and heading for the sun? Those were the good old days... Now you’re a family, there’s a third ‘p’ to add to ‘passport and packing’ – ‘planning’.

Here at Families(now a mighty group of 40 local magazines), the editors have children spanning all ages from three months to the early twenties, so you could say we’ve been there, done that. We put our heads together to pool our experience and best ideas for you. Happy travelling!

•

•

•

BEFORE YOU GO •

Label your child’s clothes, towels and backpacks, especially if you will be using kids’ clubs – they WILL go missing.

Labels 4 Kids (www.labels4kids.com/ fam) stock packs of instant labels so the job’s a breeze and it’s a much cheaper

•

solution than replacing lost items. They also have ID wristbands so you can label the children with your contact details.

Use Google Street View with the children to look round your planned location and help get familiarised with the landscape, ‘foreign’ signs and local attractions. You can also use it to create a list of places to visit.

Photocopy everyone’s passport and keep the copies in a different place. If the originals go missing, proof that you had passports will make it much easier to tussle with overseas authorities when it’s time to come home.

Have up to date pictures of your children on your phone - if they go missing you can show authorities what they look like.

Freeze food to await your return - even fresh milk can be frozen - so you don’t come home to an empty kitchen. Some very organised mothers even do an online shop towards the end of their holiday, for delivery on their first day home. Now, that’s organisation!

Lost luggage is a nightmare. Rather than filling one suitcase per person, pack a couple of daytime and evening outfits for everyone in each case so you can all get started while the hotel/airline tracks down the missing bag.

Involve your children in the packing even if just a small part is their responsibility. It occupies them while you are busy and gets them into the holiday mood. Then check their choices: you may find fancy dress costumes and nothing sensible (OK, I admit this is from experience!).

Add a small ‘emergency bag’ to your hand luggage, with plasters, tissues, sachets of paracetamol, cotton wool, needle and thread, safety pins, wetwipes and a few sweets (for bribing and

Put down the DS, it’s time for...

• Family boardgames • Collectable cards • Miniatures • Coffee bar • Snacks and treats • Great location • After school • Weekend events

www.commongroundgames.co.uk 40 COWANE STREET, STIRLING 8

families central scotland / issue 17

• •

•

By Robina Cowan

wiping away tears). Oh the satisfying feeling to have what you need just at the right time!

Pack spare clothes in your hand luggage in case of ‘accidents’.

Leave a spare set of keys with a friendly neighbour in case of home emergencies, losing yours or locking yourself out (I’ve done that just when we were about to leave!).

Cancel the newspapers and ask your friendly neighbour to return the wheelie bins to your property on collection day, so you’re not advertising an empty home.

ON THE WAY •

•

Long car journeys are not all about being plugged into gadgets. Try story tapes - as a family, we are all totally addicted to the ‘How to Train your Dragon’ series. The ‘Michelin I-Spy’ activity books are great fun, as are the free downloads from www.rac.co.uk/ advice/car-knowledge/top-ten/cargames/. I made up some sheets myself for a journey through France and they kept my boys amused for hours.

For flights, Usborne’s ’50 Things do on a Plane’ will keep them occupied, rrp £5.99, while the Top Trumps range

Learning through the seasons

High Quality Care for children 0 - 5 years providing a safe happy stimulating learning environment • Convenient for M80 motorway links to Glasgow/

• • • • • •

Falkirk/Stirling Qualified and Experienced Staff Large Secure Outdoor play areas Open 7am - 7pm 51 weeks of Year Out of School Club (Enquire within) Located in the village of Longcroft, Bonnybridge Competitive Schedule of Fees. Discount available for pre-school children

To arrange a visit please contact Joan/Janine Tel 01324 876949 or email joan@firststepsnursery-longcroft.co.uk www.firststepsnursery-longcroft.co.uk First Steps Day Nursery Allandale View Glasgow Road Longcroft FK4 1QN

•

•

•

•

is great for older children, especially if you’re willing to join in.

Flying is the one time I am relaxed about screen time - if you have electrical gadgets, use them. Make sure you have some child friendly headphones to hand so as not to ‘share’ your child’s love of Peppa Pig with the entire plane.

Sucky sweets (as they are known in our house) are great for little ones who struggle with their ears on take off.

Give babies a bottle (or breastfeed) to stop their ears popping.

Pack an extra layer for the flight even if you’re flying from a warm UK to a tropical destination. Planes can be chilly and children won’t relax if they’re not cosy.

If your child is crying on the flight, don’t panic. Most of the passengers on board will be either parents or grandparents and will have sympathy for you.

Your priority is settling your child in the best way you can.

If your child has a favourite teddy or comfort blanket, make sure it’s in your hand luggage. It may help calm them and that in turn will calm you.

Top tips for travelling with kids

unseen. Have a quick rifle through the hotel/resort Lost Property box for mislaid hats/ t-shirts etc (patting yourself on the back for labelling them beforehand).

WHEN YOU RETURN •

•

Fun, fully interactive and creative music classes starting from £12 per hour

Take your holiday laundry for a service wash - it’s a small price to pay for not having to sort, wash and dry all those gritty beach towels and sunscreen covered t-shirts.

Keyboard / Piano / Guitar and much more..

AND FINALLY Work on a 70:30 ratio. Holidays are not effortless when you have children, just as life at home is not effortless. If you can enjoy 70% of the time you are away together, that’s a result. 30% will be about tantrums, tiredness and bad moods.

But if you come home knowing that for most of the time, you relaxed, laughed and enjoyed the time spent together as a family, it’s been a success!

WHILE YOU’RE THERE •

PlanetKeys Music Centre

Resist the temptation to Facebook your day’s antics you’re advertising that you are away and your home’s empty.

Not a good idea.

When packing to come home, check the back of every drawer, cupboard and even under the beds for favourite toys that might be lurking

On AL e To ww SO O w. n Pl AV e T an et AIL ui Ke t ys AB io n .co .uk LE

This Summer Join us and get your first month Half Price Call Us:

01786 448 417

HMH THERAPY

HYPNOBIRTHING IN FALKIRK 5 weeks of 2.5 hour complete birth preparation classes

Classes Forming Now Telephone: 07787 807609 Email: heather@hmh-therapy.co.uk Website: www.hmh-therapy.co.uk

(offer includes free entry to soft play)

9

Ideas for the Summer holidays Ideas for the summer holidays The Milk Barn Why not try your hand at milking and enjoy delicious homemade ice cream at the same time. The Milk Barn is situated on a working dairy farm, and is very child friendly with indoor and outdoor play areas. Enjoy a fun, delicious educational day out for all the family and have a try at milking the Fibre Glass milking cow. Coffee and farm shop open 9.30am - 5pm Every Day! Glen Farm, Glen Village, Falkirk, FK1 3AA Contact Suzannah on 01324 623426 or visit www.themilkbarn.co.uk

Alloa Leisure Bowl There will be FREE swimming on every day throughout the summer holidays at the Leisure Bowl in Alloa for Under 16s, - anyone under 8 must be accompanied by an adult.

This will start on Monday 1st July 2013. Clacks are running a summer sports programme called ‘Fill up your summer’ with multisports, gymnastics, and football. For more activities visit www.clacksweb.co.uk

Falkirk Town Centre Come on down to the Falkirk Town centre where there is lots going on over the summer. You might even bump into a storm trooper!

Robots, cyborgs, and androids from the world of TV, film and beyond will be coming to The Arts Place, 43 High Street Falkirk from Friday 21st June – Fri 2nd August. Open daily 10am – 5pm Sunday 12pm – 4pm Entry £3.00 (concessions available).

Bairnsfest – Sat 3rd Aug – Sat 10th Aug. A week long street celebration of the culture and customs from all Falkirk’s Bairns.

With Music, Dance, Story-telling food and Arts & Crafts from the many different cultures in the area.

For further details of these events contact Falkirk Delivers on 01324 611293 or on Facebook at www.facebook.com/ falkirkdelivers

Cinema Looking to catch Monsters University or Despicable Me 2 this summer? Then head for the Bo’ness Hippodrome www.falkirkcommunitytrust. org/venues/hippodrome and the Macrobert in Stirling www.macrobert.org/cinema for these and lots more family friendly films.

10

families central scotland / issue 17

Cadgers Brae, Polmont Come on down to the Cadgers Brae restaurant and soft play. You can have breakfast with Brewster Bear on June 29th, July 20th and August 16th. £8.25 per Adult and £2 per child, 9.30 11.30. This includes breakfast, soft play, games, a visit from Brewster and face painting. On the 26th of July celebrate Brewster’s birthday party. £7.99 per child, 2-4pm. This includes soft play, games, party food (buffet, dessert and a drink) party games and a visit from Brewster Bear.

The soft play is open all year round. If you have breakfast then kids not only have a free breakfast but also get free entry to the soft play. www.brewersfayre.co.uk

Build your bear with Little Paw! Are you looking for something fun to do this summer without spending a fortune? At Little Paw in the Stirling Arcade you can build your own teddy bear for only £12.50! We have over 40 different styles in stock and we’re sure there will be something to catch your eye. We also have a great range of outfits with prices starting from £6.99! We are open Monday to Saturday and on Sundays for special birthday parties. You can have your party with us from as little as £14. Little Paw, Stirling Arcade - enter on Murray Place or King Street, Stirling. www.littlepawcompany.co.uk

Gartmorn Dam 300 To celebrate Gartmorn Dam’s 300th anniversary in 2013, a range of events and exhibitions will take place at Gartmorn Dam and in Alloa Tower, the ancestral home of the Erskine Family. Gartmorn Dam is the oldest reservoir in Scotland, and was built for John Erskine, 6th Earl of Mar (1675 - 1732) a talented visionary, who laid the foundations of Alloa as an industrial town. Events will take place throughout July, August and September, and will include a Family Ceilidh, Miniature Steam Train, craft workshops, Yarn Bombing, Off Road Cycling, Geo-Cashing and much, much more. An exhibition on the history of Gartmorn Dam at Alloa Tower on the 26th July will commence the celebrations. Alloa Tower is open daily (except Tuesdays and Wednesdays) from 1pm until 5pm and you can take advantage of the discounts for families and residents. www. clacksweb.org

Ideas for the Summer holidays The Springkerse View Play Zone, Stirling

Families Central Scotland Top Ten Free Ideas for the summer holidays

The Springkerse View is a family restaurant with a great soft play area for kids aged 1-10 years!

There are also 3 outside areas where you can relax and enjoy a meal or just a drink, one with a childs playground and one that is in a south facing garden. During the summer holidays from 1st July to 31st August get one kids meal for £1 for every adults main meal purchased. 01786 446092 www.springkerseview.co.uk

1. Parks – there are loads of great parks in the local area. Callendar Park in Falkirk, Zetland Park in Grangemouth, Cochrane Park in Alva, Causewayhead Park and the Kings Park in Stirling. Why not pack up a picnic, phone a few friends and meet up.

Common Ground Games

2. Cycling – there are some lovely family friendly cycle paths around the central belt – go to our website to find our top family friendly suggestions at www.familiesonline.co.uk

Think strategically and have fun together, playing and socialising at Common Ground Games in Central Stirling, we’ve the largest dedicated games room north of the border. Bring a game or select something from our wide range on sale and have a coffee and a bite to eat while you’re playing! Cowane Street Stirling www. commongroundgames.co.uk

3. Country parks. We are so lucky to live on the doorstep of the Loch Lomond National Park and more locally we have Muiravonside Country Park, Gartmorn Dam, Beecraigs Country Park, Mugdock Country Park and Plean Country Park. There are places to walk, cycle, watch wildlife and look out for free ranger events suitable for all the family.

Howgate The Howgate Shopping Centre has FREE activities on throughout the summer holidays with Jo Jingles, face painting, Zoolab and lots more. Events happening on 6th, 19th, 20th July and 3rd, 13th to 20th August. All events take place between 12pm – 3pm in the Community Hub next to M&S. For more information and to register visit www. intohowgate.co.uk

Callendar House There is so much going on at Callendar House this summer and it’s all FREE. Inspired by the ‘Pictures of the Past‘ exhibition, there are craft activities on every Friday afternoon to make a variety of things, including a pin hole camera, a shadow puppet and a kaleidoscope. Every Thursday there will be cooking and tasting demonstrations on in the Georgian kitchen and on 3rd, 10th 31st July and 7th August there will be special workshops in the walled garden from making your own vegetable creature to learning about bees and honey. The house, exhibitions and park are open every day so makes a great day out in the holidays. www.falkirkcommunitytrust.org

Play Pots Ceramics Play Pots is a paint your own pottery studio located at 158 Drip Road, Stirling. With a large number of blank unpainted pottery to choose from, catering for all ages and all budgets. Prices start from just £6. The range includes mugs, plates, plaques, bowls, banks and boxes, animals and figurines as well as Hello Kitty, Mr Men and Disney ranges – its a fun day out for all the family whatever the weather! There is a small, free soft play area, free car parking and a cafe. Why not pop along and create your own masterpiece ? www.playpotsceramics.co.uk

4. Geocaching, a fun free way to go and explore your local countryside and look for hidden treasure. Find our local article at www. familiesonline.co.uk 5. Jupiter Wildlife Centre in Grangemouth has loads on offer over the summer from pond dipping to den building. There may be a small donation but the centre ranger is on hand to show you around. www.scottishwildlifetrust. org.uk/reserve/jupiter-urban-wildlife-centre 6. Callendar House Open throughout the summer, entrance to the house is Free and the Georgian kitchen is open daily and there are demonstrations on every Thursday. There are arts and crafts workshops on every Friday and some workshops in the walled garden. www. falkirkcommunityturst.org 7. Smith Gallery, Stirling, Entrance is free and there is dressing up and brass rubbings for the kids, a fantastic garden to explore and a cafe to get a well deserved cup of tea!

8. Play in the Park and the Superbus will be coming to a park near you in the Stirling Council area throughout the summer holidays.

These events are free and great fun. Email play@stirling.gov.uk or phone 01786 233993 to get a programme of events and venues.

9. Libraries. Don’t forget to join the summer reading challenge. This year’s theme is Creepy House. Pick up a leaflet at your local library and follow the challenge and get stickers and rewards along the way. Check out your local library for a programme of storytelling, competitions and arts and craft events. It’s all FREE! 10. Howgate Shopping Centre has FREE activities on during the summer holidays check out www.intohowgate.co.uk and our out and about guide on pages 17-19.

11

back to school

Back to school – a terror or a treat?

W

by Joanna Parry

hether your little one is starting a new school or nursery this August or just returning after the long summer break, the first days back can be difficult. Starting school is a major milestone for you and your child and whilst some kids rush into their new classroom, unfazed by new faces, for others it’s stressful and scary and in the end, the tears flow. And it’s not just the kids battling mixed emotions - we parents can suffer too.

We’re reluctant to accept that our little ones are going ‘out into the world’ – they still look so tiny and their new uniforms dwarf them! It can be difficult to predict how you and your child will react to the first days of school but with some preparation you can make this time enjoyable and fun.

Before school starts • Be positive – your child will know if you are dreading it! Talk to them about starting school and tell them what you remember from your school days.

• Make a countdown calendar and count down until the big day. My little one loved making a paper chain and tearing off one link each day.

• Make the school familiar by walking past, find out the names of the teachers and even pop in and look at the classroom together.

• Avoid separation anxiety by encouraging your child to be independent. Help them be comfortable spending time with other people, and if you’re worried that your child might find it difficult to leave you, let staff know in advance.

• Let your child wear their uniform as a treat beforehand – they’ll feel very smart and grown-up!

• Shop together for school supplies

12

– a new backpack and lunchbox is exciting.

• Ease into a school bed-time schedule.

Don’t let it be a shock when you suddenly ask them to go to bed an hour earlier!

• It sounds obvious, but you’ll avoid a chaotic first morning by packing bags and laying out uniforms the night before.

On the day “I’ll be worse than her,” says Stephanie of her daughter’s first day at school. “I’ll be a wreck!” There might be nerves, tears and first-day chaos but try to be confident on the day and keep these top tricks in mind: • Separation anxiety can be heartwrenching but leave your child with a quick kiss, a big smile and reassurance that you will be back later. Don’t linger, don’t sneak out (although this seems like the easy option it can cause distress when your child realises you have gone), and even if you hear

families central scotland / issue 17

screaming, don’t come back!

Remember, most children only cry for a few minutes after their parents leave.

• If your child is clingy or very upset ask staff to help. They are used to it and will help both you and your child adjust.

• If you feel emotional try to hold back the tears until you leave the classroom – I promise you, you won’t be alone! Ask the other mums to go for a coffee after drop off – they may be feeling just like you.

• At the end of the day pick your child up on time, and don’t forget to bring a snack!

• Leave the house with time to spare and arrive early. Stressing over time definitely does not help nerves! It will also give your child more time to meet friends before the day starts.

back to school The first few weeks Even if the first day goes well it can still take time to settle in, as your child slowly realises that school is a permanent feature of their lives.

• Encourage small talk: talk to your child about their day, but don’t be surprised if you get little back.

“What did you do at school today?” often gets the reply “Nothing!” or “I can’t remember.” Try asking specific questions: “Who did you sit next to at lunch?” “Did you use the computer at school today?” You’ll get a much more positive response.

• Homework adds pressure too. “I was unprepared for the amount of work my son received in his first term and was faced with cries of “why do I have to do homework?” Give your child two choices of when to do it – they’ll feel empowered and be more co-operative.

• Stick week-planners to the fridge to keep on top of school life. www. activityvillage.co.uk has printable

rosettes, badges and medals that you can use as rewards, plus back to school games, activities, crafts and jigsaws.

• Cut down TV time. TV is stimulating and may cause sleep problems, especially if the TV is in the child’s bedroom. On the other hand exercise and playing sports are great stress-busters. Let them run off their anxiety and they’ll sleep better too!

• Walk to school. It’s a great time to chat and catch up and it gives your child a chance to wake up properly, ensuring they are refreshed and ready for the day. Make sure you start this good habit on Day 1, and don’t turn back!

• Set a good regular routine with healthy meals, early nights and baths.

• Why all the rush? Leave half an hour early and stop to play in the park.

Make it fun: run, kick a ball, spot caterpillars, collect leaves, marvel at the changing seasons.

Most importantly, try to enjoy their first days at school and look forward to the year ahead!

Our top tips for a happy, healthy start to school: Be positive – don’t let your own anxiety show Prepare in advance and when the big day arrives keep calm, get up early and don’t rush Talk to your child about what to expect at school Don’t forget it will all be over soon once your child is settled the whole thing will seem like a breeze!

offer ends 30/09/2013

13

back to school Back to school

FLabels4kids.com - Top Tips

amilies Central Scotland asked some of our local experts for some top tips on preparing for the first term back to school after the holidays.

Take their advice, be ready and don’t leave it until the last minute!!!

For Labelling

Labels4Kids new website www. labels4kids.com/ fam launched mid-May after a major investment to make it easier for you to find your way to the right products. High quality labels can prevent lost property and wasted time and money investing in new uniform! Take a look around with 10% discount using the code families at the checkout. Local Stirling mum and founder Ann-Maree was recently invited to be a member of Number 10 Downing Street, EU E-Commerce task force along with ASOS to give her advice on e-commerce, so she knows what it’s like to make the site clear and easy to use.

Ann-Maree’s tips for new school mums are particularly useful having 3 boys to cope with, so here are her top tips 1. Label EVERYTHING from hair bands to swimming goggles… BECAUSE KIDS LOSE STUFF! 2. Better still, label it twice, once inside a pocket or on the care label, and once on the collar so there is no doubt who things belong to.

3. There are brilliant stick on clothing labels, easy to use iron on labels and woven iron on labels from our range. See our Selection Packs for these combined with vinyl labels for hard surfaces, especially shoes, and

screening for our children so I have made bag tags too. Remember that not all labels marketed as ‘vinyl labels’ are it a priority to provide free examinations the same and not all ‘shoe labels’ are to all children under the age of 16. Let’s the same. Labels4Kids are particularly teach our children the importance of high quality and work. healthy eyes by testing them at least once 4. Cheap name tape just will not live up every year and improve quality of sight for to the wash and neither do marker the next generation. Ochil Eyes, 105 High pens which fade. Belongings are too Street, 752755. Call us allTillicoultry, year 01259 expensive to replace compared to un dbe delighted or pop in and visitro - we will the cost of good labels.

Made to last qualty sch to fro see you! ool uniforms m Trutex, and a super 5. ORDER EARLY, waiting until August speedy embroidery service, just adds to your stress and the kids makes us the first choice for school uni forms in Falkirk. don’t grow out of name labels in the sun like sunflowers! www.labels4kids.com/fam Call: 01324 618810

great value schoolwear

School uniform – buy it now!

Trutex, 32

Vicar Street, kirk, Scotland FK1 1JB Undetected eye Falconditions ail: falkirk@trutex.com can disrupt yourE-mchild’s education

Eyes stop developing at the delicate age of eight, so it is essential for us as parents to protect our children’s eyes. Eye conditions are often undetected and as many as 1 in 5 will have an unnoticed eye condition - often caused by sitting too close to the television or holding reading books too near. Your child’s eyesight is precious and can determine how well they perform both inside and outside of school. Eye strain can not only trigger headaches and fatigue but may also cause long-term damage to their eye sight.

Sadly, schools no longer hold eye test

Now is the time to buy your child’s school uniform to avoid that last minute panic in August, when you may find some sizes out of stock. Write out a list and remember to include PE kit, school bag, gym bag, packed lunch boxes, shoes and of course school uniform! Trutex in Falkirk is a great place to go for all your school wear and kids club uniforms/sports kit. They sell a huge range of good quality durable school uniform at affordable prices. Trutex also stock: - dance wear - sports and swimwear - Rainbows, Brownies and Guide uniforms - Beavers, Cubs and Scout uniforms - School, gym and lunch bags Trutex , 32 Vicar Street, Falkirk, FK1 1JB Call 01324 618810 or visit www.border-embroideries.co.uk

Clinic, July, The Pastels, PAWS, Rachel Sermanni, Orkestra del Sol, Alasdair Roberts & Friends, Zs and many more!...

www.dounetherabbithole.co.uk cardross

14

families central scotland / issue 17

closest to us but very near my mum’s house so we often walk mum’s dog here. Lots of big open spaces for the dog (and Georgie) to run around in and of course Georgie enjoys talking to the ducks.

The slides are maybe a little challenging for a 22 month old but that just means Mummy gets to join in the fun too.

H

i, I am Amy Mcfadzean and live in Redding, Falkirk with my husband Doug and my 22 month old daughter Georgie. Some of you may know me as Baby Sensory Amy as I run the local Baby Sensory classes in Stirling and Falkirk, although my colleague Sara Speirs will be running classes in the Stirling area soon. Baby Sensory offers a world full of exciting experiences which give everyone a wonderful sense of well being. Activities and experiences vary weekly, there is always something new. The developmental play session is a perfect time to socialise and build up relationships with other parents and babies. You can join at any point and the sessions are aimed at babies from birth to 13 months. For more info you can contact me on 07977490606 or falkirk@ babysensory.co.uk Why you like living where you do?

We like living in Redding because it is a nice quiet community with lots of young families, this means there are lots of groups and activities locally for babies and young children.

There are some nice walks especially along the canal.

Favourite park Our favourite park is Callendar Park – not the

Favourite children’s club/class Well, when Georgie was a baby my favourite class was Baby Sensory by far. It always offered something new but her favourite was always the light shows. Sadly she has outgrown this now but we attend Baby Ballet which is lovely.

All the little girls are so cute in their tutus and the other one we like is the Inky Tots. Inky Tots is a messy play class with lots of paint and glue all the mess and none of the cleaning up. We also love Toddler Sense. This is the next step up from Baby Sensory. There is lots of variety but it is designed for toddlers so much more lively.

Favourite day out Our favourite day out so far has been Edinburgh Zoo. We went on the spur of moment so did not manage to see the Pandas but Georgie really loved seeing all the animals and refused to leave the monkey house.

No parent should be without Musical toys such as maracas and bells, they are noisy but always serve as a good distraction. Not to mention great for little ones listening skills, hand eye co-ordination and good way to release frustrations.

My husband thinks these should also be accompanied by some ear plugs.

Funniest comment your kids have ever made Georgie is not yet at the point where she is putting whole sentences together but she is very good at copying things we say. Mostly she tells my mum’s dog Holly off. Recently caught her telling Holly to stay, more amazingly the usually very excitable puppy did stay.

parent to parent

Most loved children’s book Our most loved book is the Gruffalo by Julia Donaldson in Scots. We started Georgie off with the touch and feel book when she was really little but when I saw it in Scots I couldn’t resist. Really love the Scots dialect and making all the funny voices for the different characters.

Best children DVD or tele programme We find ourselves spending a lot of time watching The Singing Kettle DVDs. Georgie loves singing along and joining in with the actions. Not so sure it is her Daddy’s favourite though. However, I am looking forward to taking her to see it live at the theatre in Edinburgh in July as it is just 2 days before her 2nd birthday.

Most played with toys Her most played with toys are a Fisher price My first Kitchen which she still plays with even though she has a much bigger kitchen.

Another firm favourite is the Playskool Elefun with the balls that fire out the trunk. She also often plays with Jigsaws and colours in.

Biggest waste of money For us the biggest waste of money was the baby sling we bought. It was not a lot of money but we only used it 2 – 3 times as Georgie screamed every time we put her in it.

She much preferred her pram.

Amy’s Local Recommendations Callendar Park, Falkirk.

Baby Sensory www.babysensory.com Baby Ballet www.babyballet.co.uk Toddler Sense phone Bill on 07814 448239 or email stirling@toddlersense. co.uk Inky Tots - phone Kate on 07984639530.

The Singing Kettle will be at the Falkirk Town Hall on 24th and 25th August.

7 High Street - Dunblane - 01786 825933 www.toyhubdirect.co.uk 15

Arnhall Nursery is a private day nursery that provides high quality childcare from birth up to 5 years.

We have pre-school grant funded places available and have been graded Excellent & Very Good by SCSWIS in our recent report; the Nursery is set in the beautiful rural surroundings of the Keir Estate on the outskirts of Dunblane with ample car parking.

• Open all year round from 7.30am to 6.00pm • All meals included - home cooked by our in-house chef • Fully qualifed & trained staff.

Stagecoach Stirling is now taking bookings for the Autumn term!

For a Prospectus call Stagecoach Stirling now on 0131 337 7774 or email: stirling@stagecoach.co.uk

For further details or to arrange a visit please contact the Nursery direct on 01786 822 391 Keir Estate, Dunblane FK15 9NU www.arnhallnursery.co.uk

Summer 2013 Workshop July 29th-Aug 2nd ENROL NOW!

out & about

Saturday 1st September Saturday 1st June to Sunday 9th September Robot Exhibition at The Arts Place, 43 High Street, Falkirk A collection of robots, cyborgs and androids from the world of film, T.V and beyond. Open daily 10am – 5pm Sunday 12pm – 4pm Entry £3.00 (concessions). For further details contact Falkirk Delivers on 01324 611293.

Friday 28th June to Thursday 11th July Despicable Me 2 (U) (ex Tues) Bo’ness Hippodrome various times .

Despicable Me 2 (U) Macrobert various times.

Saturday 29th June Autism friendly screening of Despicable Me 2 Bo’ness Hippodrome 2.30pm.

Drop in Treasure Hunt at Larbert Library 10am and 3pm.

Breakfast with Brewster Bear at Cadgers Brae This includes breakfast, soft play, games, a visit from Brewster Bear and face painting. 9.30-11.30am £8.25 per Adult and £2 per child.

Saturday 29th and Sunday 30th June Mr Bloom and CBeebies at Callendar House www.bbc.co.uk/ showsandtours/events Saturday 1st July to Sunday 29th September Pictures of the Past Exhibition at Callendar House From the Falkirk Herald archives, these images span the early decades of the 20th century. FREE Wednesday 3rd July Learn about Bees in the Callendar House Walled Garden Suitable for ages 5-12. Booking essential, phone 01324 506850 Children must be accompanied. 11-12noon and 1-2pm.

Hairy Maclary and friends at the Macrobert 01786 466666 2pm.

Water World at Jupiter Wildlife Centre Grangemouth Booking essential. Contact the ranger on 01324 486475 or jupiterranger@ swt.org.uk 2-4pm.

Craft Session at Larbert Library Suitable for ages 7 – 12. FREE 11am.

Thursday 4th July Herbal Histories in the Georgian Kitchen at Callendar House Find out amazing things about familiar herbs and how we can use them.

2-3.30pm.

Friday 5th July Make your Own Thumatrope at Callendar House Suitable for ages 5-12. Drop in activity, children must be accompanied by an adult.

2-4pm.

Craft Session at Meadowbank Library FREE 2-3pm.

Saturday 6th July Craft Session at Larbert Library FREE Suitable for 4-7 year olds.

10.30-11.15 am.

Howie’s Kids Club at the Howgate Shopping Centre FREE Drop in Rod Puppet Making Workshop with Scottish Mask and Puppet Centre. 12pm – 3pm in the Community Hub next to M&S. For more information and to register visit www.intohowgate.co.uk Doune and Dunblane Show Keir Mains, Dunblane www. douneanddunblaneshow.co.uk Saturday 6th and Sunday 7th July Walk with Wallace at the Wallace Monument Follow in the footsteps of William Wallace and see how he led his army to victory. This is a 45 min guided tour with costumed actors on the Abbey Craig. First walk at 11am, last walk 3pm.

Spectacular Jousting at Linlithgow Palace 12.30-4.30pm. www.historic-scotland.gov.uk Sunday 7th July Autism friendly screening of Despicable Me 2 Bo’ness Hippodrome 2.30pm.

Little Seedlings Club Dobbies Flower Festival. FREE Monday 8th July Craft Session at Denny Library FREE 11-12noon.

Wednesday 10th July Investigate where our fruit comes from at Callendar House Walled Garden Suitable for ages 5-12.

Booking essential and children must be accompanied. 01324 508650 FREE 11-12noon and 1-2pm.

Crazy camouflage at Jupiter Wildlife Centre Grangemouth Booking essential. Contact the ranger on 01324 486475 or jupiterranger@swt.org.uk 2-4pm.

Bugs and Beasts Animal Handling at Bonnybridge Library 1112noon and Slamannan Library 1.30-2.30pm. Suitable for ages 5 – 12 years. Free tickets available 2 weeks before session.

Craft Session at Grangemouth Library FREE 2.15-3.15pm.

Thursday 11th July Herbal Histories in the Georgian Kitchen at Callendar House Find out amazing things about familiar herbs and how we can use them.

2-3.30pm.

Playstation Competition at Larbert Library FREE Ask at Larbert Library for more information. 10.15– 4pm.

Friday 12th July Make your Own Kaleidoscope at Callendar House Suitable for ages 5-12. Drop in activity and children must be accompanied by an adult. 2-4pm.

Bug bonanza at Carron Dam Booking essential. Contact the ranger on 01324 486475 or jupiterranger@swt.org.uk 2-3.30pm.

Come on in to Macastory’s Spooky House at Falkirk library Storytelling fun suitable for 5 years upwards. Free tickets available 2 weeks before session. 11-12noon.

Friday 12th to Thursday 25th July Monsters University (U) (ex Tues) Bo’ness Hippodrome various times.

Monsters University (U) Macrobert various times.

Saturday 13th July Alva Highland Games Johnstone park.

Pop up shop at Callendar House Saturday 13th and Sunday 14th July Autism friendly screening of Monsters University Bo’ness Hippodrome 2.30pm.

Sunday 14th July The Jack & Jill Market 40 stalls bursting with quality, nearly-

new baby & kids clothes, toys, buggies, bikes, equipment, etc (0-9 yrs). Grangemouth Sports Centre, Abbots Rd, Falkirk FK3 8JB. To book a stall visit www. jackandjillmarket.co.uk 10.30am – 1.30pm.

Tuesday 16th July

Junior Craft session at Larbert Library Suitable for 4 - 8 year olds.

FREE 2-3pm.

Young Rangers at Linlithgow Palace. FREE but booking essential. Contact the rangers on hs.rangers@scotland.gsi.gov.uk 10-12 noon.

Wednesday 17th July Brilliant Butterflies at Jupiter Wildlife Centre Grangemouth Booking essential. Contact the ranger on 01324 486475 or jupiterranger@swt.org.uk 2-4pm.

Craft Session at Grangemouth Library FREE 2.15-3.15pm.

Thursday 18th July Ice Cream making demonstration in the Georgian Kitchen at Callendar House 2-3.30pm.

Craft Session at Falkirk Library 11-12noon and Bo’ness Library FREE 2-4pm.

Friday 19th July Make your Own Tricky Picture at Callendar House. Suitable for ages 5-12. Drop in activity and children must be accompanied by an adult.

2-4pm.

Bug bonanza at Carron Dam Booking essential. Contact the ranger on 01324 486475 or jupiterranger@swt.org.uk 2-3.30pm.

Ready Steady McShow performance Tickets from the Steeple Box office 01324 506850 7pm.

Friday 19th to Tuesday 30th July Funny in Falkirk www.funnyinfalkirk.com Saturday 20th July Design a flower at Callendar House Workshop for 8 to 10-yearolds creating their own flowers in 3D using clay. £10 For information phone 01324 503770 10-4pm.

Children’s Festival at Grangemouth Stadium Lots of free games, activities and workshops for all the family. 1-5pm.

17

out & about

Saturday 1st September

Whilst every care has been taken to compile the Out and About section please remember that this magazine is printed weeks in advance of the event. Please call and check events with the venue to avoid any disappointment before setting out.

Breakfast with Brewster Bear at Cadgers Brae This includes breakfast, soft play, games, a visit from Brewster Bear and face painting. 9.30-11.30am £8.25 per Adult and £2 per child.

Sunday 21st July Under The Trees Nature Club Meet at Callendar Park. 0-5 yrs 10.30-11.30am and 6-13yrs 1.303.30pm. For more information visit www.facebook.com/ underthetrees Monday 22nd July Spooky Stories with Story teller Bea Ferguson at Denny Library 11-12noon and Bonnybridge Library 2-3pm FREE Tuesday 23rd July Spooky Stories with Story teller Bea Ferguson at Falkirk Library 11-12noon and Meadowbank Library 2-3pm FREE Wednesday 24th July

Friday 26th and Saturday 27th July Celebrate Brewster Bear’s birthday at Cadgers Brae This includes soft play, games, party food (buffet, dessert and a drink) party games and a visit from Brewster Bear. £7.99 per child, 2-4pm.

Once on this Island at the Macrobert A theatrical adaptation of The Little Mermaid, presented by the Macrobert 2013 Take Part Summer Festival . 01786 466666.

Craft Market at the Howgate Shopping Centre Friday 26th July to October Gartmorn Dam 300 As part of the tercentenary celebrations there will be an exhibition on at Alloa Tower. Open Thursday to Monday 1-5pm. Look out for loads more events and activities on www. clackmannanshiretourism.com/ gartmorn-dam-300 Saturday 27th July

Paw prints and poos at Jupiter Wildlife Centre Grangemouth Booking essential. Contact the ranger on 01324 486475 or jupiterranger@swt.org.uk 2-4pm.

Wild at art! Jupiter Wildlife Centre Grangemouth Booking essential. Contact the ranger on 01324 486475 or jupiterranger@ swt.org.uk 2-4pm.

Spooky Stories with Story teller Bea Ferguson at Larbert Library 11-12noon and Slamannan Library 2-3pm. FREE

Autism friendly screening of Epic Bo’ness Hippodrome 2.30pm.

Big Pond Dip in Kippen Booking essential. For information and to book, call 08452 777 000 or countryside@stirling.gov.uk 10-12noon.

Minibeast Hunt in Kippen Booking essential. For information and booking, call 08452 777 000 or countryside@stirling.gov.uk 1.30-3.30pm.

Thursday 25th July Herbal Histories in the Georgian Kitchen at Callendar House Find out amazing things about familiar herbs and how we can use them.

2-3.30pm.

Spooky Stories with Story teller Bea Ferguson at Grangemouth Library 11-12noon and Bo’ness Library 2-3pm FREE Friday 26th July Make your Own Shadow Puppet at Callendar House. Suitable for ages 5-12. Drop in activity and children must be accompanied by an adult. 2-4pm.

18

Airth Highland Games North Greens Park.

Epic (PG) Bo’ness Hippodrome 11am.

Saturday 27th and Sunday 28th July Hopetoun Town and Country Fair www.hopetoun.co.uk Family Campout at Gartmorn Dam Experience a night in the woods with your family and the guidance of the rangers. FREE Booking essential. For booking and information phone 01259 450000.

Sunday 28th July Ba Ba Boom Summer party at Falkirk Town Hall Get ready for the hottest disco of the year beach balls, hula hoops, punch ‘n’ judy show, sand pit, duck pond and the coolest summer tunes around for little folks to groove to. 12.151.15pm. For tickets phone 01324 506850.

The Jack & Jill Market 40 stalls bursting with quality, nearlynew baby & kids clothes, toys, buggies, bikes, equipment, etc

families central scotland / issue 1

(0-9 yrs). West Lothian College, Almondvale Crescent, EH54 7EP, Livingston. www.jackandjillmarket. co.uk 10.30am – 1.30pm.

Monday 29th July to Saturday 3rd August Cute Kids Competition in the Howgate shopping Centre, in partnership with the Falkirk Herald.

Pop along and have your child’s photo taken, entry to competition not essential, portraits available for purchase.

Wednesday 31st July Sunography in the Callendar House Walled Garden Make light sensitive photo print using materials found in the garden.

Suitable for ages 5-12. Drop in activity and children must be accompanied by an adult. 2-4pm.

Dragons and Damsels at Jupiter Wildlife Centre Grangemouth Booking essential. Contact the ranger on 01324 486475 or jupiterranger@swt.org.uk 2-4pm Craft Session at Grangemouth Library FREE 2.15-3.15pm.

Thursday 1st August Herbal Histories in the Georgian Kitchen at Callendar House Find out amazing things about familiar herbs and how we can use them.

2-3.30pm.

Craft Session at Falkirk Library and Meadowbank Library FREE11-12noon.

Friday 2nd August Create a Pin Hole picture at Callendar House Suitable for ages 5-12. Drop in activity and children must be accompanied by an adult.

2-4pm.

Carron Dam guided walk Booking essential. Contact the ranger on 01324 486475 or jupiterranger@ swt.org.uk 2-4pm.

Robot and Monsters Craft Session at Larbert Library Suitable for 7 - 12 year olds. FREE 11am.

Friday 2nd to Thursday 15th August The Smurfs 2 (U) Macrobert various times.

Saturday 3rd August Fun Session at Larbert Library FREE suitable for 4 - 7 year olds.

Galaxy Quest (PG) Bo’ness Hippodrome 11am.

Howie’s Kids Club at the

Howgate Shopping Centre FREE Song & Dance Factory return with a Princess show in the morning and a Superhero show in the afternoon (pre-booking required).

12pm – 3pm in the Community Hub next to M&S. For more information and to register visit www.intohowgate.co.uk Saturday 3rd and Sunday 4th August Day out with Thomas at Bo’ness and Kinneil Steam Railway Engines with friendly faces, children’s entertainment, competitions, face painting, fairground attractions. www.bkrailway.co.uk Saturday 3rd to Monday 5th August Walk with Wallace at the Wallace Monument Follow in the footsteps of William Wallace and see how he led his army to victory. This is a 45 min guided tour with costumed actors on the Abbey Craig. First walk at 11am, last walk 3pm.

Saturday 3rd to Saturday 10th August Bairnsfest in Falkirk A week long street celebration of the culture and customs from all Falkirk’s Bairns. With music, dance, story-telling food and arts and crafts from the many different cultures in the area. For further details contact Falkirk Delivers on 01324 611293.

Sunday 4th August Autism friendly screening of Galaxy Quest Bo’ness Hippodrome 2.30pm.

Little Seedlings Club Dobbies EEK (Environmental Education for Kids) FREE Bridge of Allan Highland Games www.bofagames.com Monday 5th August Dance workshop at Denny Library am and Larbert Library pm 1 session for 5-8 year olds and 1 session for 9-11 year olds. Ask at your library for more information.

Monday 5th to Saturday 10th August Strathcarron Hospice Pop Up Child & Baby Shop in the Howgate Shopping Centre Tuesday 6th August Dance workshop at Meadowbank Library am and Bo’ness Library pm.

1 session for 5-8 year olds and 1 session for 9-11 year olds. Ask at your library for more information.

Peppa Pig Party at Grangemouth Library. Suitable for the under 5s. Free tickets available 2 weeks before session. 2.15-3.15pm.

Tuesday 6th to Friday 9th August 4 Day Outdoor Adventure Organised by the Clacks rangers and part of the John Muir Award, this is suitable for children age 8-12.

FREE Booking essential.

For information and booking phone 01259 450000.

Wednesday 7th August Make your own vegetable creature at Callendar House Walled Garden Suitable for ages 5-12. FREE drop in activity.

Children must be accompanied.

2-4pm.

Get lost! Jupiter Wildlife Centre Grangemouth Contact the ranger on 01324 486475 or jupiterranger@swt.org.uk 2-4pm.

Summer story party at Larbert Library Suitable for ages 3- 5. Free tickets available 2 weeks before session, 11-12noon.

Watery Wilderness at Doune Booking essential, children must be accompanied. countryside@ stirling.gov.uk or 08452 777 000.

10-12noon.

Minibeast Hunt at Doune Booking essential, children must be accompanied. countryside@ stirling.gov.uk or 08452 777 000.

1.30-3.30pm.

Thursday 8th August Ice Cream making demonstration in the Georgian Kitchen at Callendar House 2-3.30pm.

Come on in to Macastory’s Spooky House at Grangemouth Library Storytelling fun suitable for 5 yrs upwards. FREE tickets available 2 weeks before session, 11-12noon.

Craft Session at Falkirk Library FREE 11-12noon.

Friday 9th August Workshop at Callendar House on how does a camera work A 20 minutes session to investigate how a camera works. Drop in activity and children must be accompanied by an adult. 2pm, 2.30pm, 3pm and 3.30pm.

Saturday 10th August

Oz the Great and Powerful (PG) Bo’ness Hippodrome 11am.

Autism friendly screening of Oz The Great and Powerful Bo’ness Hippodrome 2.30pm.

Wee Bopper Baby Disco Live DJ, soft play, baby chill zone, healthy snack bar, face painting, dance competition and lots more. Visit www.weeboppersdiscos.co.uk Beancross Restaurant, Polmont 2-4pm.

Geocaching Event at Gartmorn Dam Test your navigational and treasure hunting skills as a family.

FREE 11-3.30pm. For information and booking phone 01259 450000.

Outdoor Family Ceilidh At the Community Woodland at Gartmorn Dam 7-9pm. For information and booking phone 01259 450000 Sunday 11th August The Jack & Jill Market 40 stalls bursting with quality, nearlynew baby & kids clothes, toys, buggies, bikes, equipment, etc (0-9 yrs). Grangemouth Sports Centre, Abbots Rd, Falkirk FK3 8JB. To book a stall visit www. jackandjillmarket.co.uk 10.30am – 1.30pm.

Tuesday 13th August Craft Session at Denny Library FREE 11-12noon.

Howie’s Kids Club at the Howgate Shopping Centre Jo Jingles Music and Dance Workshops. All events take place between 12pm – 3pm in the Community Hub next to M&S. For more information visit www. intohowgate.co.uk Wednesday 14th August Super spiders at Jupiter Wildlife Centre Grangemouth Booking essential. Contact the ranger on 01324 486475 or jupiterranger@ swt.org.uk 2-4pm.

Wednesday 14th and Thursday 15th August Howie’s Kids Club at the Howgate Shopping Centre FREE Kids Soft Play. 12pm – 3pm in the Community Hub next to M&S. For more information and to register visit www. intohowgate.co.uk Thursday 15th August Teddy bears picnic at Bo’ness Library Suitable for 18 mths - 5 yrs. FREE tickets available 2 weeks before session, 2-3pm.

Camp Craft and Orienteering at Gartmorn Dam Suitable for ages 9+ FREE 1-5pm. For information and booking phone 01259 450000 Friday 16th August Howie’s Kids Club at the Howgate Shopping Centre FREE Kids Bee Happy Craft Workshop with coloured sand.

12pm – 3pm in the Community Hub next to M&S. For more information and to register visit www.intohowgate.co.uk Breakfast with Brewster Bear at Cadgers Brae This includes breakfast, soft play, games, a visit from Brewster Bear and face painting. 9.30-11.30am £8.25 per Adult and £2 per child.

Friday 16th to Monday 26th August Encounter with Wallace at the Wallace Monument Costumed actors will recreate episodes from Wallace’s life in three dramatic presentations. www.nationalwallacemonument. com Saturday 17th August Howie’s Kids Club at the Howgate Shopping Centre FREE Circus Skills Workshop. All events take place between 12pm – 3pm in the Community Hub next to M&S. For more information and to register visit www. intohowgate.co.uk Craft Session at Meadowbank Library FREE 11-12noon.

Saturday 17th and Sunday 18th August To Kill a Mockingbird (PG) Bo’ness Hippodrome various times.

Sunday 18th August Under The Trees Nature Club Meet at Callendar Park. 0-5 yrs 10.30-11.30am and 6-13yrs 1.303.30pm. For more information visit www.facebook.com/ underthetrees Autism friendly screening of To Kill a Mockingbird Bo’ness Hippodrome 2.30pm.

Monday 19th August Howie’s Kids Club at the Howgate Shopping Centre FREE Zoolab – Mega Beasts workshop.

12pm – 3pm in the Community Hub next to M&S. For more information and to register visit www.intohowgate.co.uk

out & about

Tuesday 20th August

Howie’s Kids Club at the Howgate shopping Centre FREE Face Painting & Balloon Modelling.

12pm – 3pm in the Community hub next to M&S. For more information and to register visit www.intohowgate.co.uk Wednesday 21st August Food for free at Jupiter Wildlife Centre Grangemouth Booking essential. Contact the ranger on 01324 486475 or jupiterranger@ swt.org.uk 2-4pm.

Thursday 22nd to Sunday 25th August Doune the Rabbit Hole Family friendly music festival at the Cardross Estate, Port of Mentieth. www.dounetherabbithole.co.uk Saturday 24th August A Little Princess (U) Bo’ness Hippodrome 11am.

Sunday 25th August Kinneil Heritage Day at Kinneil Estate, Bo’ness A great family day out with lots of FREE activities, workshops and more plus the chance to look inside Kinneil House 12.30 – 4.30pm.

The Jack & Jill Market 40 stalls bursting with quality, nearly-new baby & kids clothes, toys, buggies, bikes, equipment, etc (0-9 yrs).

West Lothian College, Almondvale Crescent, EH54 7EP, Livingston. www.jackandjillmarket.co.uk 10.30am – 1.30pm.

Saturday 31st August Oz The Great and Powerful (PG) Bo’ness Hippodrome 11am.

Sing-a-long Joseph at the Falkirk Town Hall 2.30pm.

Arts and Crafts Workshop at Gartmorn Dam Suitable for ages 10+ For information and booking phone 01259 450000 1-3pm.

Saturday 14th September Scotfest 2013 Clackmannanshire’s festival of food and drink, and arts and crafts. Cochrane Park Alva. www.scotfest.co.uk

19

FUN F O ALL T R H FAMI E LY

GARTMORN DAM

300 th Anniversary Celebrations MINIATURE STEAM TRAIN FAMILY CEILIDH CRAFT WORKSHOPS OFF ROAD CYCLING YARN BOMBING TREASURE TRAIL e!

And Muc h Muc h Mor

Event Guide now available.

See local press for details!

Events Through

out July, August

and September

For further information tel. 01259 450000 or visit Clacksweb: www.clacksweb.org.uk

Come and get up-close and personal with some of the most iconic robots, cyborgs and androids from the world of film, TV and beyond.

Friday June 21st - Friday August 2nd 2013

10am - 5pm Monday - Saturday, 12 - 4pm Sunday Entry £3 (concessions apply) THE ARTS PLACE, 43 HIGH STREET, FALKIRK S P O N S O R E D

B Y

D.J. Manning Moving. Storing. Selling... One Call Does It All. • Domestic and Commercial Removals • Self and Managed Storage • Auctioneers 01506 827 693 djmanning.co.uk