Families Fife Issue 17 Jan 2013

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Inco rporating Perth & Kinross

the really useful magazine and website for families in the fife region Issue 17 • Jan/Feb 2013

www.familiesfife.co.uk

Slide into 2013!

Families guide to setting achievable goals for the New Year

012 10:16 Page 1

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DELIVERY!

FREE

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Also including:

Nurseries in West Fife guide, and NEW local parks feature Pick up your copy in

Dunfermline  Glenrothes  Kirkcaldy  Perth  Kinross  Cupar  St Andrews or a village in between

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

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

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t’s 2013 and the year of The Smart Money Mum. Here are a few New Year tips to help you Shop Smartly, Spend Less, and Save.

TAKE A NOTE. Make a resolution to always ask for a receipt and to write down everything you spend.

Detailing all of your spending allows you to look back at the end of each month and see where the money went, a crucial first step if you want to work out where to make savings – you might be surprised at how much money was wasted!

Book Now. If you’re lucky enough to be planning a trip abroad in the summer, book as far ahead as you can for up to 70% flight and rail savings.

Also, start a family savings jar now just for holiday spending. 30 weeks until your holiday, at £10 per week that’s £300 in the jar.

WOOLY SAVINGS. The ever-climbing price of fuel means it could be cheaper to buy good quality 100% wool thermals which trap a layer of heat to the body, allowing you to turn your radiators down now and completely off by mid-March, late Arctic blasts permitting.

LOSE WEIGHT. If slimming is on your list of New Years’ Resolutions, then it could come with a cash bonus.

Spending just £5 a day on lunch while at work, or out and about, adds up to a whopping £1715 per working year. Make your

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own sandwiches for pennies, guaranteeing a healthy choice and big savings on ready-made sandwiches full of mayonnaise that sell for £3 or more.

STOP SMOKING. The ultimate New Year’s resolution is also the biggest money saver. At £7 a pack, quitting a 20-a-day habit will put an amazing £4000 back in your pocket over the year.

PLAN AHEAD. How often do you get to the weekends with nothing scheduled and end up spending far too much on pricey days out with hardto-please youngsters? Set aside time during the week to browse what’s-on listings and find plenty of fab FREE events. Pack a lunch and you could be enjoying family days out during the year for virtually nothing! See p15 –Ed! CLEAR OUT & CASH IN. Recent research suggests that families can have up to £1000 worth of useable but unused items sitting in their cupboards. Sell them either online or at nearly-new markets and release the cash locked up in them to reinvest in what your family now need.

SAVE ON NEARLY-NEW PRICES. You can save up to 90% off the retail price by buying nearly-new – and it’s great for the environment and will save you a fortune!

Wishing you a Super-Saver Year.  The Smart Money Mum is a trademark of the Jack & Jill Market.

Inco rporating Perth & Kinross 3 Welcome to Families Fife 4 Who, What, Where, When Party bags from the Whole Shbang and local updates 6 Education and Childcare West Fife nurseries share their successes and plans 8 Health & Wellbeing Get help looking after no.1 this New Year 11 Birth, Baby & Beyond Holistic baby service providers have their say 12 Clubs and classes Introducing Kingdom Gymnastics group and class updates 13 Holiday Ideas Time to get away from it all 14 Nosey Parkers Undercover Dad puts Craigtoun Park St Andrews through its paces 15 What’s on Not a lot…it’s January!

Contact us

Editor: Susan Kirkwood, editor@familiesfife.co.uk Tel: 01383 735938 or 07734 289 143

Front Cover: Katvig image supplied by Tootsie and Fudge Design: White Creative www.whitecreativecompany.co.uk Circulation: 12,000 copies printed. Distributed free of charge throughout Fife, Perth and Kinross by kind permission of Fife Libraries, Fife Leisure Centres, antenatal clinics, health visitors, surgeries, community use schools, Theatres in Fife and Perth, places of historic interest, local attractions, selected shops and playgroups and play centres.

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

NEXT ISSUE: March - April 2013 Booking deadline: 01 Feb. Out 01 March 2013 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

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ack in November, I really thought I’d have very little to share with Families readers in this issue. How wrong I was. In fact, this issue had to be edited back to within an inch of its own back page to accommodate all our usual features plus our new guide to the regions parks. So watch this space as I think we may well be getting bigger and better in 2013.

You can help. Keep picking up the magazine, spread the word, befriend us on Facebook and register with www.familiesfife.co.uk to be kept up to date with what’s on listings. Use the online directories for everything from party planning to finding a nursery. ‘Let’s Kick It’ is the byword for 2013!  Susan Kirkwood, Editor

Winter warmers at the Peacock Rooms

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hose outside Dunfermline (or even local residents) who may wish to pay a visit to Pittencrieff Park to see it in all its winter glory should take note that there are now indoor dining facilities in the park, known to locals as the Glen.

The Peacock Rooms café at the Glen Pavilion is open throughout the winter serving up winter warmers such as hot chocolate, soup and other hot dishes to help you and your family warm up after enjoying some time in the great outdoors.  Thinking about plans for next year?

For more information on the Peacock Rooms and the wedding, conference and meeting room facilities available in the Glen Pavilion visit www.fifedirect.org.uk/glenpavilion

Good cause to wear a hat Brain Tumour Research – Wear A Hat Day. Thursday 28th March 2013 ear a hat on Thursday 28th March and help fund the fight against brain tumours. If people ask you why you’re wearing a hat, your answer ‘It’s for Brain Tumour Research’ will spread awareness of the deadly disease that kills more children and adults under 40 than any other cancer.

You can get involved now by organising something to raise funds. From sponsored silences to charity runs and school bake sales, educational facilities around the country are being encouraged to raise money in any way they can. Save the date! 

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Register your interest today by emailing sarah@braintumourresearch.org

Unlock your child’s potential at the Kumon Glenrothes Study Centre

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e all know the importance of maths and English. It has been widely shown, for instance, that young people with better literacy and numeracy skills are far more likely to succeed in gaining good employment and fulfilling their potential later in life.

Kumon Educational, the UK’s largest supplementary education provider, offer maths and English study programmes which are tailored to each child’s ability.

Established for over 50 years, Kumon’s unique worksheet-based method can help your child to excel academically, develop their capacity for learning independently and boost their all-round confidence.

The Kumon programmes complement

classroom learning, building speed and accuracy and developing abilities such as time management and problem-solving.

Above all, the programmes nurture independent learners, ensuring each child can study by themselves.

There are currently over 67,000 students studying at more than 660 Kumon study centres across the UK and Ireland.

The Glenrothes Study Centre is located at Cadham Neighbourhood Centre on Huntsmans Road.  For more information, or to take advantage of a Free Assessment, contact Glenrothes Study Centre Instructor Lesley Shaw on 01383 822 814 or email glenrothes@kumoncentre.co.uk

Kumon’s maths and English study programmes work to build your child’s confidence and inspire a passion for learning.

Contact your local Instructor for a Free Assessment.

Glenrothes Study Centre Lesley Shaw 01383 822 814

Boost your child’s confidence 0800 854 714 kumon.co.uk

www.familiesfife.co.uk

Issue 16 Families Fife | 3

News: Who, What, Where, When …

Party bags to treasure

by The Whole Shbang

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ove them or hate them, party bags are like gold dust to young partygoers. I am firmly in the camp that doesn’t like them – nasty little poly bags full of junk. Or at least I was until my youngest came back with something I’d hitherto considered impossible, a nice party bag! This was because she’d been at a party where the bags had been supplied by The Whole Shbang.

Susan Fletcher, the woman behind the good goodie bag business explained; ‘I started this because I was upset when kids just raided the bag for the cake and sweets and left the plastic blowy things aside.

Following this philosophy, Susan now supplies perfect party bags for any occasion at affordable prices.

They come filled with interesting items such as purses, frisbees, stationery and don’t contain sweets or cake, and they actually work out cheaper than doing them yourself if you were to buy all the products individually. Another bonus is that you won’t find any of the products in your local supermarket! The Whole Shbang will take orders for a minimum of 10 bags and can create themed bags for birthdays, weddings (to keep the kids quiet whilst the speeches are being done) or for events, such as the Halloween party bags commissioned by the Play Planet in Dalgety Bay. The Whole Shbang is the official party bag supplier to Dunfermline Academy of Sport and recently supplied unisex bags for an Open Day for Persimmon Homes. 

To find out more contact Susan Fletcher on 07916 118 003 or visit www.thewholeshbang.co.uk or find them on facebook.

For quality themed party bags for any occasion

Contact Susan 07916 118 003

www.thewholeshebang.co.uk 4 | Families Fife Issue 16

Get the ball rolling in 2013 F

football skills classes, sporty merchandise and cool clothing.

Be the Manager or the Coach; if you have a sporty, supervisory, managerial, sales, marketing, recruitment or self-employed background and would like to work from home, Kiddikicks could be the best New Year’s resolution you make and keep. 

ed up of juggling motherhood, work and personal commitments? Go for it – join the business Mums!

Kiddikicks has franchise opportunities across the UK. Start the New Year as you mean to go on – less work, less stress, more exercise, more support and more quality time with your children.

Work for yourself and run your own successful franchise business with Kiddikicks toddler and child football-themed and

Call us on 020 7937 7965. Or email sarah@ kiddikicks.co.uk www.kiddikicks.co.uk

Quote “Families” in your enquiry for a 5% discount.

Members appeal from the Kirkcaldy Model Engineering Society

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re you interested in engineering, railways, painting, making things or even just looking for a little bit of fun? If so, the Kirkcaldy Model Engineering Society (KMES) would love to hear from you.

You could even learn to become a train driver, guard, ticket collector or simply join the maintenance staff of this 24 year old model train society. Next year they’ll be celebrating 25 years service so the more members the merrier. Trains run throughout the summer months in Beveridge Park Kirkcaldy (weather permitting!). To find out more contact George on 01592 590439 or leave a message. 

Cupar indoor market

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ith many enterprising people finding shops difficult to take on due to the high rentals and rates, the Cupar Indoor Market couldn’t have opened at a better time.

Since last September, they’ve been offering high quality indoor selling space for traders in the area in the form of individual booths from which traders can display their wares.

All spaces are offered at affordable rental prices and traders do not have to man their stalls or booths. There is a central paying counter which is manned at all times so customers simply choose their items and pay at the till. CCTV operates throughout the market and some of the traders who do man their stalls are on hand to keep an eye on things.

A new coffee shop is in open selling a variety of hot and cold snacks with a seating capacity of 30 – great news for buyers and sellers alike! There is also a spacious car park with disabled bays located onsite and toilet facilities with both disabled and baby changing facilities available.

Located in Front Lebanon in the Old Crash Repair Centre which locals know as Heggies Old yard the market is just up Burnside before the hospital.  A map is available on the website at www. cuparindoormarket.co.uk and on Facebook under Cupar Indoor Market. Telephone: 01334 844920.

www.familiesfife.co.uk

Parent to parent Online Outfit

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ootsie and Fudge are an online children clothing company based in Fife, they sell a range of fun and funky children’s clothing for ages 0-6 years. For winter 2012 they have a great selection of winter suits, jackets, fleeces, hats, gloves and boots.

Tootsie and Fudge mainly sell Danish brands such as Molo, Katvig, Mikk-Line and Ej Sikke Lej, which means they are designed to keep your little people warm and cosy this winter.

This year, they are particularly excited about Danish brand Katvig’s Uni Jacket and Pants (as per the front cover image) which have been developed by Katvig in collaboration with older kids who say they don’t like traditional all in one snow suits.

In response to this, the suit comes with the specially designed Katvig Zipper joint, which makes it possible to turn a jacket and trousers into an all in one suit. The suit also comes with a detachable hood with 180° outlook and hidden drawstring, water repellent zipper with storm flap and it’ s even glove friendly with hand gaiters to keep out the snow and cold. With all these amazing design features it’s hard to believe that the suit is also eco friendly! The outer and inner fabrics as well as the lining are made from recycled plastic bottles, without any toxic processing to make them into cosy snowsuits.

Why not take advantage of the Tootsie and Fudge’s winter sale with many items (including some snow suits) with 50% off.  To view the collection log on to their website www.tootsieandfudge.com

What is Tartan Kipper?

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artan Kipper is the brainchild of Charlotte Giacopazzi. Based in Milnathort, Charlotte creates totally original ideas for personalised pictures, stationery, textiles, table decorations, wine labels and more! Each commission is bespoke and Charlotte works through ideas with her customers to get to the real essence of the recipient’s style.

She will work within your budget and can help you realise ideas and bring these to life. Currently, she has been toying with the idea of taking on studio space, perhaps sharing with others, so if there is anyone out there looking to do the same then get in touch!  Email: tartankipper@yahoo.co.uk See more: www.tartankipper.co.uk or facebook

www.familiesfife.co.uk

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laire Graham had been working at a call centre for 6 years before having her children. Despite starting out determined to return to work, the finances after childcare costs were taken into account just didn’t add up. A familiar story. So Claire, like many of us, opted to stay at home with the kids, something which she has enjoyed as she has been able to spend this time with them. What happened next however, is less familiar to the rest of us. Spotting ‘some gorgeous patchwork quilts’ whilst pregnant with her older daughter, she wasn’t prepared to pay the price asked for them. So, what did she do. She learned how to use a sewing machine and made her own. Go mum!

Over to Claire; ‘After the quilt, came more and I started ButtonBox Boutique. Now I do bespoke wooden name plaques, personalised blankets, bags, bunting, teacup candles and anything else I can dream up! I love vintage and retro items and prints and as such the majority of my items are in this style. I take part in craft fairs and fundraisers regularly.’

Details of these and other items can be found through her facebook page which is www.facebook.com/buttonboxboutique Claire lives in Kirkcaldy with partner Gordon and children Alex (6), Eva (2), Maisie (1/2!).

Why you like living where you do?

We have a beach which is a never ending source of fun and interest come rain or shine. The children also love the Links Market that visits annually. Kirkcaldy is pretty central to places like Fife Animal Park, Muddy Boots and the Scottish Deer Centre and there are plenty of soft play centres such as Jumping Jacks and Bongos around to choose from on wet/cold days.

With the beach, two great parks, indoor play centres, swimming pool and lots of groups on offer for children, there’s always something to do if you’re at a loose end.

Favourite shop: I love Rejects! The haberdashery is where I sneak off to when I’ve not got the kids and the rest is like an Aladdin’s cave to us all, particularly over the Christmas period as the kids always ask to go just to see the lights and displays.

Favourite park: We have two great parks to choose from and the kids love both! Alex loves the Ravenscraig park; we always take a walk along to Ravenscraig Castle and then onto the beach. Eva loves feeding the squirrel there too. They all love feeding the ducks at the Beveridge Park and having a go on the bouncy castle during warmer weather.

Favourite child friendly restaurant : The kids love Home Farm View as it has indoor and outdoor play areas and there’s always lots of other children to play with.

Favourite day out: We love Cluny Clays at Cluny for the range of activities on offer – they have the most amazing outdoor play area with a kart track

and kids driving range. For the older ones there’s a 9 hole course, clay pigeon shooting and archery. They do a lovely lunch or dinner too, there’s something for everyone.

Proudest eco-friendly moment: Turning jam jars into very cute and useable pin cushions!

Best planet saving tip: Follow your children around switching off lights as they don’t seem to understand the concept of switching off the light if you’re not in the room!

No parent should be without: Wet wipes!

Parenting pet hates: The ‘ride on’ and ball machines that are at exits of playcentres and supermarkets – as if you’ve not already spent enough money! There’s always an argument over these things!

Funniest comment: Eva was eating seafood risotto but was picking out the mussels and throwing them over the side of her high chair shouting “EEEEWWW, STONES!”

Favourite family holiday spot:

Portinatx in Ibiza as we spent our first foreign holiday there as a family. It’s quiet and has a laid back, easy atmosphere and an amazing beach.

Best children’s book: The Mr Men and Little Miss series are all very popular in our house.

Best children DVD or video: Everyone loves Pirates of the Carribean, Harry Potter or Star Wars.

Most played with toys: Good old paper and coloured pencils!

Most successful recipe/food: Minus the mussels, seafood risotto! 

Issue 16 Families Fife | 5

Education & childcare

Choosing early years care in West Fife Little Smarties Childcare: Dunfermline

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ittle Smarties is a day care facility for children from birth to 12 years based at 6 Park Avenue, Dunfermline. The facility is a home based childcare service run by Shirley Brogan and 2 other qualified part-time staff looking after up to 6 pre school and 6 school aged children daily. Such a high carer-tochild ratio means that the care really meets the needs of the children. The town centre location allows easy access to local parks, the library, theatres and shops for outings. The secluded garden also provides a safe place to play. ÊWhat Ê does a day look like at Little Smarties? Children arrive from 8am and are offered breakfast. Then a staff member does the school run to St. Margaret’s and Commercial Schools. This is followed by child–led free-flow play with snack at 10am.

Weather permitting, everyone heads out on a trip/outing or enjoys the garden. In adverse weather, the team uses this time for cooking & baking, craft, sticky kids, keep fit, dressing up, singing and drama or any activity that the children choose. All meals and snacks are provided, including a nutritious lunch at noon. After lunch younger children take a nap while the older children have quiet time. School pick up is around 2.45pm and all the children have a snack together at 3.30pm.

The older school children have a fantastic relationship with the pre-schoolers and want to spend time with them. This is borne out by the fact that many of Little Smarties’ former kids who’ve moved onto school want to come back for visits!

All staff are qualified to H.N.C. level and are dedicated to providing a first class service

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to families. Indeed, a recent inspection by the Care Inspectorate gave Little Smarties the maximum rating of Excellent (grade 6) on all areas inspected for the third consecutive year.

This year they have also been nominated for a feature in the Care News.  Hours: 8am till 5pm Monday to Friday.

Tel: 01383 735653, go to www.little-smarties.co.uk or visit the Little Smarties Facebook page.

Lilliput Nursery , Dunfermline

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ooking for childcare? Well maybe we can help! Lilliput Nursery can be found in the

we have worked hard to retain its original characteristics whilst creating a bright spacious and fun environment both inside and out!

With flexible opening hours, fully inclusive packages and parent concierge services we offer our customers great value for money and work to ensure that all our families needs can be met. Our delicious menus have been designed in consultation with food nutritionists and all food is freshly prepared on site offering a well balanced diet to all ages of children. We understand the demands of working parents and offer easy drop off and pick up to support with the smooth transition from home to nursery each day. It’s not easy leaving your precious ones each day and our aim is to make it as simple as possible!

Our great staff team is passionate and committed and works hard to create an atmosphere of care, respect, learning and fun which radiates throughout our happy establishment. Michelle, our dedicated manager leads a team of qualified professionals who work in partnership with our parents to ensure that the needs of all children are met.  To find out more why not visit our website www.lilliput-nursery.co.uk or call 01383 626261to find your local nursery and pop along and see for yourself what we have to offer. A warm welcome is waiting for you! Lillput Day Nursery 30-32 Canmore Street, Dunfermline.

Access to the rear of the building via New Row Car Park

heart of Dunfermline and provides a stimulating safe environment so you can be sure that your children are happy and learning whilst in our care.

Our nursery is a unique converted terraced property designed with children in mind and

Appin Nursery and Creche, Dunfermline

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ppin Nursery and Crèche is a new 40 place nursery on Halbeath Road, close to Dunfermline town centre, catering for children aged six week to five years. Its mission is to offer top quality care, fun and

www.familiesfife.co.uk

Partnership status with Fife council is anticipated by October 2013, providing families with their funded places. Parents can pay with childcare vouchers. There is also a car park on site providing free unlimited parking to nursery and crèche users.

Tel: 01383 249053, e-mail: info@ appinnurserycreche.com or visit our website www.appinnurserycreche.com.

Clever Clogs Nursery, Kelty

W Fife Childcare Information Service Rain, Wellies & Puddles!

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hat could be better than a wellie waddle in the rain to raise money for a worthwhile charity?

Young wellie waddlers aged 1 – 3 years old from Ochilview Crèche and the Broom Crèche Leven donned their wellies and waterproofs and jumped and splashed in every puddle they came to during their walks.

Thanks to their efforts the total raised so far is £775. The money is going to support the Scottish Cot Death Trust.

Fife Child Care & Early Years Crèche Service is registered with the Scottish Care Inspectorate to provide a service throughout Scotland. We can operate between 9am – 11pm, 7 days per week if required.

learning and to create opportunities for children to be together and feel secure whilst developing at their own pace.

Yolanda Pearson, Early Years Manager, is an experienced and highly skilled manager and committed childcare professional. She has spent the last 3 years working on a voluntary basis with the local Beaver Scout troupe. Yolanda is passionate about outdoor learning and active play. Appin Nursery and Creche has direct access to a consultant education psychologist, who will undertake staff training and consult with staff as and when required.

For full class listings please check online at www.familiesfife. co.uk as we have limited space to list full programmes here

www.familiesfife.co.uk

Our crèches have supported community events, adult learning classes and the Scottish Open Golf Tournament in St Andrews.

In the past few years our wedding crèche service has become very popular.  If you would like any further information about our crèche service or after school club network please contact us on 01592 583145.

Families magazine asked what a typical day looks like at the Appin Nursery and were told that there is no such thing! Staff work with the children to meet their own individual needs and thus they are taken in different directions daily. The nursery has ten rooms, including two separate sleep rooms, a quiet area, and indoor physical area and a large enclosed garden. The nursery is open 7am to 7pm, offering flexibility for shift working parents.

Parents can also use the crèche on a fairly ad hoc basis. The crèche is available to nursery and non nursery families equally.

e have been busy developing our woodland area and nursery garden.

Natural wooden stepping stones, see-saw, tepee, benches and a snack table have all been added from the cut trunks and branches.

An outdoor music area has also begun and next we’re hoping to make some dens in the woods and plant some bulbs and fruit trees in the garden. The children and staff are looking forward to more snow so they can have fun sledging down our hill.

We are also working in partnership with Fife Council’s Youth Work Team to help start the development of the community allotment. It is hoped we will be able to assist in showing the community how important it is to maintain an active and healthy lifestyle by growing their own fruit and vegetables. The children will take an active role in the development of our own fruit and vegetable patch as well as the community allotment at Earls Row. We appreciate all the support we have been given over the last 4 months and are pleased to see children coming from Kelty, Cowdenbeath, Ballingry, Kinross and Lochgelly to join our Clever Clogs family.

We wish you all the best for 2013 and look forward to your continued support. 

NURSERY

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

Tel: 01383 832883

E: cleverclogschildcare@yahoo.co.uk

www.cleverclogs-childcare.co.uk Issue 16 Families Fife | 7

Health feature

Here’s to a happy holistic 2013!

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o here we are again at the start of a new year. Feeling positive that we will manage to change and to do better than we did last year. But will we? Usually we start off well, in January, and then trail off somewhere towards the beginning of February! We can change, but it’s arguably far easier to do so, if you don’t try to go it alone. We’ve gathered together advice and tips from local experts on food and fitness, on breathing and conditioning and on nutrition to talk us through positive changes we can all make to help us feel better and have more energy in 2013 and hopefully beyond!

Start 2013 with planning, the yoga way!

Susannah Dean teaches general, pregnancy, birth, postnatal and baby yoga classes in Dunfermline & Inverkeithing. She offers her take on how to positively approach this new year.

What can we do when energy levels seem set to stay low? My first thing is to take a couple of deeper breaths, do some yoga to free up my energy and then make a plan!

1. Breath like you’re on holiday

Breathing well releases muscular tension around the chest, tones the abdominal organs and energises the body through releasing toxins on the exhalation and enriching the blood with oxygen. When we are distracted, tense, fearful and irritable, our breathing pattern changes and our breath becomes shorter and shallower.

When we feel relaxed and content, our breathing is more efficient and sustains us better. Expanding your lungs through

singing and exercise can be very enlivening, whilst exercising without full breathing can exacerbate bad habits. When you breath well there is a 3 way action of the lungs: as you breath in the lungs widen to the sides, the rib cage lifts and there is also a ‘bucket-handle’ type of movement in the front of the ribs. You can learn to improve your breathing through yoga. This involves various poses that release tension, restore health and unblock stagnant energy as well as specific practices for breathing. ÊÊ To prepare, set aside a little time and get a warm drink. Then place your feet on the ground and sit in a position where you can lengthen your spine, now take 3 really easy expansive I’m on holiday’ breaths. Focus on your breathing become easy and smooth.

2. Get your mojo working

Yoga poses often focus on the health of the spine as this is the backbone of our energy system. All the nerves wrap around our body from the spine, so any imbalance in the spine can manifest as disharmony in other areas.

When your spine is free to move easily, and is well aligned you will find your energy levels lift. As well as raising your energy levels you will find yourself to work steadily without becoming exhausted. ÊNow Ê you are ready to get your energy levels moving. Gently undulate your spine back and forth, from a gentle backbend to a forward bend. Work back and forth, and side to side so your energy feels alive and alert.

3. Make a great plan!

Making a plan of what you want to achieve, and easy steps towards it, is very enjoyable. ÊPut Ê some ideas down on paper. If the ideas help you breath more fully and more easily keep them on the list... if the ideas make you feel tight in your chest of your notice your breathing speeding up or becoming shallow, the make these ideas more manageable.

On surveying your plans you feel bored and

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

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disinterested then you need to free up some energy and get more playful. Plan something silly, or outside your normal comfort zones!

2013 is here for the taking - so enjoy your breathing, get your spine well aligned and make some wonderful plans to begin!

by Susannah Dean Susannah is the author of ‘Yoga and breathing for pregnancy and birth’ which is available on Amazon. Call for details on 01383 413121 or visit her website www. theyoga.co.uk

Fast Fitness Bootcamps coming west

As we mentioned already, going it alone in the pursuit of fitness, is difficult. But help is at hand. For 5 years Kirkcaldy’s Mind & Body Studio has been delivering high quality group exercise sessions at their facility in Kirkcaldy, thus helping thousands of people to accomplish their health and wellbeing goals. The good news for those living further west is that they are now bringing their early morning Bootcamps to Dalgety Bay & Dunfermline.

Loosing weight and keeping it off can only be accomplished by combining exercise and diet and Keith and the Mind and Body team will give you the complete package and support to help you get fantastic results in only 4 weeks. This includes 2 outdoor classes per week, a daily home exercise program (15-20 mins), a nutrition pack including recipes and meal plans and all of the support you need is all included in the price. After 4 short weeks you will feel self

Kids Parties new year With Ayou Difference new

Catwalk Party (age 5-13 yrs) Mind & Body Bootcamps Try our most popular party 4 weeks A Fashion- £49 showDuloch, themedDalgety party

Bay (outdoor) & Kirkcaldy with a real catwalk, light(indoor) makeup, accessories, disco lights and Includes: • 2 Outdoor Classes per music with a performance the week • Daily Home ExerciseatPlan end for parents. Party cost £8 (10-12 toning exercises) per child. • Nutrition Pack / Diet Call Mind andPlan Body See www.mindandbodystudio.co.uk Studio, Kirkcaldy on 01592 236700 forfor more info or call 01592 263700 details

www.familiesfife.co.uk

motivated and self educated to continue with the change in routine until you achieve the body that you deserve. Bootcamp includes a 60 page step by step guide with home exercise and diet plan to follow – with website support.

For only 4 weeks attend 2 bootcamps per week. Following the principle of short duration/high intensity interval training for all levels (don’t worry – there’s no rolling around in mud!)

Follow our High protein / Low Carb eating plan. Your pack includes

a 2 stage nutrition plan offering ideas and recipes using the Glycemic Index of Food whilst retaining a balanced and safe diet.

Complete your 15 minute daily home exercise plan. Your pack gives you a 4 week plan of toning and strengthening exercises (imperative to ensure that any loss in weight is fat loss not lean tissue loss) Working on the principle of short duration, high intensity interval training, this programme moves away from the typical military style Bootcamp of muddy, shouty discipline to a new way of thinking for Body shape change.

There is also a buggy bootcamp version of the above programme for Mums with preschool children from 6 months, mother and child classes and Post Natal personal training options available in the Kirkcaldy Studio.

For prices and times contact www.mindandbodystudio.co.uk or call 01592 263700.

And now for something new… FRED’s EMPORIUM

Families is delighted to be in the know about a whole new lifestyle and wellbeing concept in St Andrews. Fred’s Emporium in South Street combines upstairs pilates studios with a retail ground floor stocking a range of wellbeing and organic clothing for exercise.

Added to this the shop will also stock work by handpicked Scottish and UK designer/

www.familiesfife.co.uk

makers and vintage inspired gifts. What a treat!

For those looking to concentrate on traditional pilates workouts, pilates Matwork classes are taught in small groups of about six participants, to enable a more individualised approach. Classes are an hour in length and focus on challenging the ‘core’ stabilising muscles with various exercises in different positions on the floor. Great for wellbeing and improving core strength and alignment.

The Reformer Studio is ideal for those wishing to pursue a pilates personal training programme. An initial consultation and postural assessment determines a client’s strengths and weaknesses. From there a personalised programme is devised – ideal for people with a busy lifestyle or as a precursor to attending matwork classes.

Small group sessions are also available for 2 people and are based on the same principles as a one-to-one session.

Fred is a Pilates teacher with 14 years experience in teaching the technique.

Originally a dancer (her career started at Dundee Rep Dance Company) she brings a wealth of teaching experience to her popular classes. She will be joined by two local teachers. Cáitlin Heavey wlll be teaching Yoga for beginners and Yoga for back pain and Shelagh Keegan will also be teaching Pilates, both matwork and the Reformer.

Located at the Westport end of South Street, the Emporium is close to parking and the bus station. Pop into the Emporium or look

 Call Susan on 07734 289 143 to advertise here

online for further info on classes and the shop. Fred’s Emporium: 01334 474298

Mother-care tip: Try a little tenderness

We also suggest adopting a new attitude for the New Year. Instead of being constantly hard on ourselves why don’t we give ourselves some slack? Like, for example, resolving to practice the Buddhist concept of ‘maitri’; unconditional compassion for yourself, on a daily basis. We know that children respond better to understanding and compassion for their mistakes than being berated – and so do we! So we suggest renouncing beating yourself up for good in 2013.

OR TRY ANIMAL THERAPY

Did you know that creatures of all shapes and sizes are being used today for therapy in society?

For years, dogs have been welcomed into both residential and day care centres and homes. But now interest has turned even to smaller creatures which can aide both sensory and mental issues.

Alison from Eden’s Garden tells Families about the benefits of interactions with her animals.

When I visit day centres, residents are given cushions for their knees and are then given an animal to care for. Residents may feed, brush, pat or even just blether to the animals. Smiles appear, eyes open wide and conversations start both to the animal and to friends. Chinchillas are caressed and idle hands become active with the little hamsters.

Such visits provide stimulation to both the body and mind, if only for a short while and welcomed by both staff and relatives. The benefits to the residents are plain to see.

Eyes that for the main stay closed are opened

Fancy something completely different for your child’s next birthday?

Eden’s Garden

Animal handling parties and displays Animal handling fun and crafts combined to capture the attention of both the children & adults. Also available for schools, nurseries, play groups, care homes, weddings, christenings and corporate events.

1-1 sessions also available - ideal for therapy and special needs!

Call Alison on 07745594571

Visual interactive fun www.edensgardenparty.co.uk Issue 16 Families Fife | 9

Health feature bright and alert, far away looks are drawn to the animals and silence is broken by caring chat. All these actions are noted at visits again and again. Stimulation for language and for the senses benefits our children and also adults with specific needs. Hedgehogs, lizards, tortoises and other small creatures challenge all the senses and may stimulate language response where a human carer may fail.

Of course as well as the human species, all the animals enjoy the love, care and ongoing attention which they all deserve.

Guinea pigs chatter and tortoises pop their heads back and forth- animal company benefits us all!

Eden’s Garden: Contact Alison on 07745594571 or visit www.edensgardenparty.co.uk

Managing stress through nutrition

Alisa Wilson from Nutritionalise specialises in helping people treat a whole range of ailments through adapting their diet and promoting lifestyle changes. She looks at how stress can affect us and suggests simple changes we can make.

An estimated seven million people in the UK are living with anxiety problems and approximately 415,000 people in the UK suffer from stress levels that are making them ill. Known health problems caused by stress may include headaches, high blood pressure, digestive issues such as irritable bowel syndrome, panic attacks and insomnia.

Other conditions can be triggered because of the strain put on the immune system.

Allergies, colds and minor infections, eczema and other illnesses are known to occur at times of stress. There have even been links made between stress and cancer.

Food and Stress

Nutritionalise will offer a free nutritional assessment and 15% discount on first consultation to all ‘families’ readers in 2013. www.nutritionalise.com

Lastly, when looking at food and nutrition, particularly as parents, we must also mention dental care and hygiene. We look at tooth friendly foods here and top rotters.

Top Five Tooth Friendly Foods!

Cheese! As you’re tucking into a chunk of cheddar you’ll be pleased to know that not

Looking for a gentle approach to dentistry?

A warm welcome • High quality private dentistry for all the family • Friendly relaxed atmosphere • General and cosmetic dentistry • Dental hygienist available • Patient centred preventative approach

85 SOUTH STREET, ST ANDREWS, FIFE, KY16 9QW 01334 475433 • www.standrewsdentist.co.uk 10 | Families Fife Issue 16

only is it rich in calcium, which promotes healthy teeth, it also balances out the PH in your mouth which lessens the damaging effects of acid from a festive glass of wine on tooth enamel and helps kill bacteria that cause tooth decay and gum disease.

Peanuts (unsalted if possible) contain calcium and vitamin D, both vital for oral health as well as your general health.

Walnuts, which are often used in puddings and cakes, also contain zinc fibre, folic acid, iron, thiamine, magnesium, vitamin E & B6, potassium and zinc – all of which play an important role in keeping our teeth and gums healthy. brocolli and carrots in particular are great for your oral health as they contain vitamin A which help strengthens the tooth enamel.

Crudités will promote good oral health as, because they are eaten raw, they massage your gums, which encourage blood flow, and clean your teeth too Chicken or Turkey provide us with a great source of protein, which is rich in phosphorus.

This combines with calcium and vitamin D to make our teeth (and bones). By eating plenty of protein you will help reduce tooth decay and keep your teeth strong and healthy.

Eating and greeting with Santa

Enjoy: Wholemeal bread, cereals and pasta.

These are rich in vitamin B and help the nervous system.

Brightly coloured fruit and vegetables.

These will help boost the immune system because they are packed full of diseasefighting phyto-nutrients.

Herbal teas made from relaxing herbs such as camomile and lemon balm, especially before bed.

Avoid: Alcohol. It is a sedative and acts as a depressant. It can affect sleep patterns and will irritate bowels.

Caffeine in coffee, tea, cola etc. These stimulate the nervous system and can make you feel more jittery and tense, will disrupt your sleep and can cause palpitations.

Highly processed foods. These contain additives that will not help you to feel calm. They are often full of ‘empty calories’ and will not give you the longlasting energy boosts you need to deal with stressful situations.

Alisa also advises to increase uptake of certain vitamins such as Vitamin C, Vitamin B complex especially B5, Magnesium, Iron and Zinc asthese are the main requirements for producing stress-coping ‘adrenal’ hormones

See the mag on your smart phone

Top Five Teeth Rotters:

Sweets, biscuits and cakes Acid resulting from frequent consumption of refined sugar dissolves the minerals essential for healthy teeth. When you do indulge, its best to have sweets in one go after your meal, rather than picking throughout the day. This is not a licence to binge!

Fizzy drinks If you like a bit of fizz in your soft drinks or mixers why not opt for soda water? Fizzy drinks are loaded with sugar and even sugar-free or diet drinks are still acidic and in excess can cause tooth enamel to erode away. But, if you can’t resist them, use a straw as this will lessen direct contact with your teeth Processed cereals Avoid processed cereals! You’ll be amazed at how much sugar is hidden in these. Opt for porridge or bran based cereals – or, better still eggs! Either clean your teeth before you eat or half an hour after, to avoid damaging your enamel Crisps Cooked starch breaks down into component sugars – the main enemy for teeth.

Why not opt for carbs low on the glycaemic index such as vegetable crisps instead?

Wine We all love a glass of wine or two white wine can be very acidic and contribute to enamel erosion, try drinking it just at your main meal, as drinking little and often is far worse than drinking once a day. Red wine can also increase the risk of staining. If you are drinking red wine, try to remember to leave a gap before you brush your teeth to remove any stains. 

www.familiesfife.co.uk

Birth, baby and beyond

Baby Sensory MamaBabyBliss comes to Fife makes sense T

B

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

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

Award winning Baby Sensory classes provide a myriad of colourful sensory experiences and new sensations. Imagine taking your baby on a jungle, water or space adventure, to a winter wonderland or to a world of light and magic? Mums and Dads also find out how to settle and soothe their baby, how to get them on their tummies, how to perform simple massage techniques and a whole lot more. There are also some wonderful games and activities which are fun to do together. Music therapy is another sensory delight that cannot be missed!

Each activity is supported by useful learning and developmental information, so that parents know how to lead their baby’s learning forwards, and every week is different.

Baby Sensory classes also provide an exploratory play area where parents can try out the equipment and developmental materials, interact with others and gain ideas for home use. And then it’s back to the sensory area for more activities, music and dancing that always ends with cuddles and big yawns from the

he people behind MamaBabyBliss have a clear mission: to pamper and nurture mothers, mothers-to-be and babies in the most natural way possible. Practitioners provide natural holistic services that support mothers in pregnancy and thereafter. It seemed therefore, like a natural career progression for Alex Mitchell to become a MamaBabyBliss practitioner after the experience of pregnancy and the birth of her own one year old daughter. Alex also has over 20 years of experience in the health and wellbeing having worked in some of the top hotel spas in both Scotland and London. Alex explains ‘Having experienced these classes in London at Sure Start Centres, my intention as an NCT volunteer for Eltham in the Greenwich Borough, was to outreach to parents and offer these amazing classes across Fife in Scotland. Thus Alex became a qualified Baby Massage and Yoga Associate Teacher with MamaBabyBliss. Her classes provide parents with some essential bonding and nurturing time each week for them and their little one, whilst teaching them the skills and understanding the benefits of baby massage and baby yoga. 

To reserve a place in a local Cupar class, contact Alex by phone 07855 840842 or email at alex.mitchell@mamababybliss.com 1-1 and group sessions & weekend workshops for Dads all available. Pregnancy Massage & Yoga & Relaxation classes also planned.

babies. Not even a busy little baby can fight off sleep after so much activity!

Parents looking for an unforgettable experience won’t go far wrong with Baby Sensory! The joy and sense of awe that arises from seeing baby learn and develop is well worth the effort of squeezing it into the weekly schedule. 

ÊWednesday Ê Kinross, Lodge St Serf Masonic Hall 1.15pm - 2.00pm Birth - 13 months ÊFriday Ê Inverkeithing Lodge St John Masonic Hall, 10.00am - 10.45am 7 - 13 months, 11.15am-12.00pm Birth-6 months & 1.00pm - 1.45pm 7-13 months.

Clare Wilson runs Baby Sensory classes throughout West Fife. See below for times.

See ad for contact details.

ÊMonday Ê Dunfermline Our Lady of Lourdes Church Hall, 10.00am - 11.00am 7-13 months, 11.30am - 12.30pm Birth - 6 months & 1.30pm - 2.30pm Birth - 6 months. ÊWednesday Ê Cowdenbeath, Broad Street Community Centre, 10.30am - 11.30am Birth - 13 months

Baby massage, baby yoga and pregnancy massage to nurture you and your baby Contact Alex on 07855 840842 or alex.mitchell@mamababybliss.com

Let’s Pretend – making light of party planning At this very busy time of year give yourself one less thing to worry about by letting us take the stress out of organising your child’s party.

Simply choose from our variety of brilliant value for money packages.

Then book a fantastic fun filled event for your child. We look forward to meeting you.

www.familiesfife.co.uk

For extra value just when you need it, we are offering a - free birthday child place on all parties booked before 28/02/13. Simply quote promotional code FA0113 when booking.

Visit us at www.lets-pretend. co.uk to see our party themes or contact us on 07977 203 440.

Issue 16 Families Fife | 11

Clubs and classes Clubs and Classes news Doodle and Spat

Spring 2013 Term Times Classes start back w/c 14th January and will run for 10 weeks through to w/c 25th March with one weeks holiday w/c 11th February. Classes cost £40 for the 10 week block for 1-2.5yrs and £50 for the 2-5yrs classes.

At both the classes we have our free play areas which include sensory trays with water, sand, slime, shaving foam, and the favourite rice! Plus we have play doh, colouring pictures, rubbing plates, stencils, chalk boards, building noodles in the the free play areas. Each week these is a choice of 3-4 areas to try out! Along side this we have one art & craft activity at the 1-2.5yrs class and two art & craft activities at the 2-5yrs class. There will always be something for the wee ones to try out! Classes are held in Dunfermline and Kirkcaldy. Call on 0794 282 5224. www.doodleandsplat.co.uk

If you’d like to join one of our classes please call Julie on 01383 734080, e-mail jojinglesfife@hotmail.co.uk or visit our facebook page www.facebook.com/ jojinglesfife

Shuffledance

Are putting on their very first show on 3rd March 2013 in the illustrious Carnegie Hall and they’ve been doing lots of fundraising for costumes. Efforts to raise cash have include a Halloween Disco, Christmas Party and a Sponsored Walk which 22 of their children attended. They managed to raise a whopping £610 on the walk alone so well done to them!

Bonjour La France! With La Jolie Ronde

Jo Jingles start our new term of classes from Wednesday 9th January. If you’re looking for a fun, interactive and educational class for you and your little one then why not come along and try one of our classes? Our classes are suitable for children from 3 months to age 5. Each week we enjoy singing, playing percussion instruments, music and movement and fun with lots of different props too - parachute, puppets and pom poms to name but a few! All children are welcome to come along for a free trial class and babies under 6 months get their first 4 weeks classes FREE!

Experience has found that children starting their language learning at 3 or 4 are more successful than children starting at 8 or 9. At this young age they are very receptive to new sounds, which become familiar very quickly. They are uninhibited and quickly become confident and at ease with the foreign language.

For these reasons, La Jolie Ronde programme is designed for 3-12 year olds to enable them get the best start in life in learning the language just like young French children do and in the same way as they learnt their mother tongue.

La Jolie Ronde gives your child the opportunity to develop an enthusiasm for languages through unique, recognised language programmes for nursery & primary aged children. These are activities they enjoy and will repeat over and over again, absorbing language as they ‘play’.

Classes: Monday St. Bryce Kirk Church in Kirkcaldy Tuesday- Cadham Neighborhood Centre in Glenrothes. 

LET’S LEARN FRENCH!

For more information or to book a free taster contact Aleksandra on 07510596798 or email: aleksandrak@lajolierondelicensee.co.uk

Jo Jingles

Bonjour la France classes give your child the chance to excel in a foreign language through fun games, songs & stories.

Classes in Glenrothes and Kirkcaldy Call on 07510 596798 or email Aleksandrak@lajolierondelicensee.co.uk For 3 - 11 year olds

Jo Jingles is Here!

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

Develop your child’s

Art, Craft & Messy Play Classes for under 5's Classes for children aged 1‐2.5 yrs & 2‐5 yrs In Dunfermline & Kirkcaldy Birthday parties with a difference for ages 2‐8 For further details on classes/parties: Call Lynda/Pamela on 0794 282 5114 Email: doodle@doodleandsplat.co.uk Web: www.doodleandsplat.co.uk

12 | Families Fife Issue 16

• Social Skills • Language • Confidence • Listening Skills • Co-ordination • Imagination Children’s Parties & Nursery Sessions also available!

One family, two languages

T

he season of snuffles and coughs is upon us. I heard Puce sneeze the other day – the type of cartoon sneeze that only children can produce – shrieking ATCHOOOM! And that’s how I knew that she was sneezing in French.

Bilingual children have a tough time of it; it’s not enough that they have to learn the words for the world that surrounds them in the language of their own country and that of the “other” parent, but they also have

to learn the words for the sounds.

Unlike clocks in this country, French time pieces go tic tac, fire engines apparently have a “pan pon” sounding siren and, my personal favourite, cockerels say cocorico. We spent our first Scottish holiday with Puce on a small farm and devoted considerable time to standing listening to the cockerel, trying to settle whether it was cocorico or cockadoodle-do. The jury’s still out.  Jenny Clark, Strictly Speaking: One Family, Two Languages www. culturefrog.blogspot.co.uk info@culturefrog.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

Get away Calling all budding young gymnasts…

P

re-School Gymnastics is the ideal way to help your children to develop their balance, coordination and other physical skills from a very early age.

The Pre-School programme in Bruce Street Gymnastics Centre in Dunfermline offers seven daytime classes each week for young children from 12 months to 5 years.

Classes are based on the British Gymnastics approved programme and run by BG qualified coaches specifically trained in Pre-School Gymnastics.

Bruce Street Gymnastics Centre is a full time gymnastics training centre catering for all levels of gymnastics. The apparatus includes a large carpeted sprung floor area and lots of equipment specifically designed for use by Pre-School boys and girls.

Pre-School Class Times

Tuesdays - 1.15 to 2pm - age 3 to 4 years Tuesdays - 2 to 2.45pm - age 4 to 5 years Wednesdays - 9.45 to 10.30am - age 1 to 2 years Wednesdays - 10.45 to 11.30am - age 2 to 3 years Wednesdays - 1.15 to 2pm - age 3 to 5 years Fridays - 9.45 to 10.30am - 3 to 4 years Fridays - 10.30 to 11.15am - 4 to 5 years The Bruce Street Gymnastics Centre is centrally located in Dunfermline, close to car parking, the main Bus Station and the High Street.

Full details of all classes are available on the website at www. kingdomgymnastics.co.uk where a booking/enquiry form can be submitted. Also, telephone messages can be left on 01383 665 026 Kingdom Gymnastics Trust is registered as a Charity in Scotland, Number SC040303.

Travel time

F

antastic family holidays don’t just happen. They’re crafted, often by hours of work from one or both parents, who spend endless amounts of time planning, plotting, budgeting and making sure safety nets are in place to stop hiccups becoming disasters.

Travelling, particularly with a young family, can be very stressful.

Families has handpicked these family getaways both at home and abroad to inspire you to start planning what you’re going to do as a family this summer…

Where to go...north Devon

W NG NOOKI BO BRUCE STREET GYMNASTICS CENTRE, CENTRAL DUNFERMLINE

Devon is one of the UK’s most popular holiday destinations, and for good reason: wonderful beaches, plenty to do (even in the rain), beautiful scenery and a wide choice of where to stay.

Libbear Barton, a country estate on the north side of the county, hits just the right note of luxury (beamed cottages that are beautifully laid out and furnished) and has everything on hand, from stairgates to babysitters, for the hard-pressed family.

There’s an indoor pool, games room, play areas inside and out, fishing lake and woods – all on a rolling, 40-acre estate, and with the sea a half hour’s drive away. Perfect for big families or families holidaying together – the farmhouse sleeps up to 14. Prices vary, but for example Moley’s Place, sleeping eight in four bedrooms, costs around £1,700 a week in high summer.

More information at www.libbearbarton.co.uk

For information/booking form see website www.kingdomgymnastics.co.uk Or leave us a message on 01383 665026 Kingdom Gymnastics is a Scottish charity, No SC040303

www.familiesfife.co.uk

Where to go...the Alps

The Alps are much too good to save for your skiing holidays – in fact, those who’ve tried the area summer and winter often say summer is the best time to be

there. For a wonderful family Alpine holiday, you’ll be hardpressed to improve on the Chilly Powder formula – choose from a luxurious hotel or a villa, all set in a biscuit-tin picture-perfect

location, complete with in-chalet childcare and – for the foodies – an in-chalet chef. Sports on offer include white water rafting, rock-climbing, trekking, tennis and summer tobogganing (which is one of the most fun summer sports I’ve ever tried, and kids adore it). Prices vary depending on what sort of package you’re after, but as a for-instance, Chalet des Amis (three bedrooms; sleeps up to eight) is £1,200 in the midsummer.  More information at www.chillypowder.com

Issue 16 Families Fife | 13

Dads page

Just how good are our local parks?

W

e decided to find out. With the help of our Undercover Dad from Perth we are going to be looking at the region’s parks throughout 2013. And when we say looking… we really mean scrutinizing. Armed with Families strict criteria, a questionnaire, camera and with notebook at the ready, the first park up for inspection was Craigtoun Country Park, Fife.

Undercover Dad visited this green space near St Andrews accompanied by baby son to see how it measured up to Families strict 'family friendly' criteria.

Q. Park name:

Craigtoun Country Park

Q. Where is the park?

2 miles southwest of St Andrews and signed from the B939. It may also be signed from the A915.

Q. Getting there…

By car, taxi from St Andrews, walking (core footpath network) and easy cycle on minor roads or some core footpath routes from St Andrews. Unfortunately the bus service has been discontinued. Score: 4

Q. Sign of signage…

The adventure starts off with the hunt for direction signs on the way to the park. It was a bit patchy in places; we followed a mixture of brown signs for the park and the Duke Golf Course. On entering the park there are no direction signs but by good fortune we spotted a small map on a distant notice board. Score: 3 (big map or sign at entrance please!)

Q. Take the weight off your feet...

There were no seats at the entrance, but once we made our way to the main hub of the park and the play area there are lots, including low walls, picnic benches and seating in the summerhouse. Score: 4

Q. Stroller stroll or wheeled workout?

The path network around the park is excellent and the main routes are surfaced, smooth and wide enough to accommodate all types of wheeled chariots, from small wheeled strollers up to bush bikes and scooters although roller skates and skateboards might struggle.

For the more adventurous there are many ‘off road’ routes too on which to explore...but more on that later! Score: 5

Q. Let’s climb/jump/ scramble…

The adventure park looks impressive and for the older kids (8-12 and including undercover dad!) there’s a tall pointy tower to scale with a very high and spiraling chute to slide down, again lots of sand, high climbing nets, and trampolines. Good for those who have a head for heights. We were told that during the school summer holidays there is also a

14 | Families Fife Issue 16

bouncy castle (weather permitting). Score: 4 (swings would make it perfect)

sitting on a bench. Score: 4 (wide variety of potential picnic spots)

Looks like an exciting play area with lots and lots of sand – we love sand, but the day we visited it was like chipping through permafrost!

Formal play for toddlers was limited to 2 diggers, a basket swing, trampolines and small climbing unit with slide. Score: 2 (more pieces for small people please!)

There is a café, but it is unclear whether it will be open next summer. Score: 2 (uncertainty)

This park is superb for exploration; it’s just a question of where to start? There are many small hiding places, woodlands, formal hedge and tree plantings in which to play hide and seek. There are avenues, Italian Garden, rustic rocks and cascading stream, Dutch village on an island (closed in winter), a multitude of small bridges, historical relics, rocks to climb and jump on and open space in which to run. It’s a landscape crying out to be explored.

If you get bored of exploring and it’s the school summer holidays then take a trip on the train or paddle out into the boating pond in a boat. Perfect! Score: 5

The unique feature about this park is undoubtedly the historic parkland setting, with boating ponds and islands and kids of all ages will love the prospect of riding on the train (but check its running to save disappointment). Score: 5

Q. Top trumps for toddlers…

Q. EXploration factor…

Q. Time for tea – outdoor dining

Picnic benches next to the play area, informal picnic locations include hiding out in the Italian garden, on top of the hidden hill, by the pond edge, on a boat in summer, summerhouse – or just

Q. Time for tea – indoor dining Q. Legs crossed?

The toilets close for the winter. However, there are two toilet blocks and at least one has baby changing facilities and this is located near to the café. Score: 3

Q. What’s your USP?

Q. Lasting Impressions

I have to admit that I had limited expectations when we arrived, however I have been won over by the rich variety of landscape to explore and setting for imaginative play and I can’t wait to take our wee boy back to see the park change throughout the seasons. I also think that in the coming years as the voluntary group ‘Friends of Craigtoun Park’ become established that the Key facilities in the park will improve 1 Poor: Oh No!, further. Score: 5 2 Not impressed: Overall Score: 42 out of 60 Not so good If you would like to help find 3 Ok: fair to middling out more about Friends of 4 Good: Keeps us all Craigtoun Park, they can be happy contacted via their website: 5 Excellent: Terrific! www.friendsofcraigtoun.org.uk

I.T.Dad Kids,Computer & Internet I.T. Dad is Jagdeesh Hiremath a local Families reader and father to a 3 year old girl. He currently works as a Software Build & Integration Manager in Fife. or most children and teenagers, computer and internet is fun. It’s a play tool, they learn without any pain. Two-year-olds using an IPad and schoolchildren playing video games is very common.

Technology is becoming more social, adaptive and customised and as a result, it is an amazing teaching tool for all. Whether you are passing your touch screen phone back and forth to your child or your toddlers preferred

F

playtime is at the computer, every parent or guardian must make sure their child’s experience with technology is educational and fun.

What is unique about the internet? According to research, children who use the internet have higher scores on standardised reading tests. This is because the websites are text-based in nature. So, more time spent in reading which might account for improvement.

We should encourage children to use technology for creativity, and not just entertainment. We should encourage them to record a story on an iPod or record a song thus helping them create new sounds

using playback options, they can slow down or speed up the voice for example, add different backgrounds or beats until they are creating something unique.

In the process, if they use technology in a wrong way, always pressing the incorrect button for example, ask why? It may be that they like hearing the noise it makes or they might be stuck and can’t figure out the correct steps.

It is important that children should be exploring and playing with the technology. Computers, smart phones, and tablets aren’t going away, but with a few tweaks and consideration, you can make your child’s technology-time productive, educational, and fun! 

www.familiesfife.co.uk

Out and About: familiesfife.co.uk/whatson January 2013 Saturday 12th January

Open Day at Press Here Workshop Coupar Angus. 10am to 4pm: Admission free.

The Press Here workshop is an operational traditional letterpress printing press – lead type is hand-set exactly as Gutenberg did over 500 years ago. Come and see how it is done, and try your hand. Children welcome. Parking and disabled access. ‘A hidden gem…can’t wait to come back!’—2012 visitor.

Find us on Facebook under ‘Press Here Letterpress Workshop’. Beech Hill House, Beech

Hill Road, Coupar Angus, PH13 9AZ. Saturday 26th January Bird Ringing Demonstration RSPB Loch Leven Get up close and personal with some of the birds on the reserve at this Big Garden Birdwatch ringing demonstration. Watch trained and experienced BTO ringers in action, and get the opportunity to learn more about garden birds.

Look on as they handle the birds and record their vital statistics. They’ll show you the finest feathers on a blue tit, and maybe even the sharp beak of a woodpecker! There will be the opportunity to ask lots of questions, and find out how bird ringing has increased our knowledge and understanding of the secret lives of some of our most familiar birds. Free 10am - 12 Location: RSPB Loch Leven Centre, Vane Farm Reserve, Kinross, KY13 9LX

To book telephone: 01577 862355 Saturday 2nd February The Jack & Jill Market - Dunfermline 10.30am -1.30pm 40 stalls bursting with quality nearly-new baby & kids items, clothes, toys, books, equipment & a large item gallery full of cots, buggies, bikes, highchairs & much more!!

(0-9yrs).Snap up great BARGAINS and SAVE £££.

The Vine Venue, 131 Garvock Hill, Dunfermline KY11 4JU.

For more info visit: www.jackandjillmarket.co.uk

February & March 2013 Friday 8th February

Trad in the City Family Ceilidh Perth Concert Hall Join Norrie MacIver from Scottish band Mànran(fresh from their STV charity single) and friends as they lead you through a fun ceilidh for all the family. Come along and dance the night away to great traditional music played by leading figures in the Scottish music scene. Featuring a short performance from Perth Academy’s Trad in the City project. £8; concessions £5 (includes stovies + oatcakes)7.30pm. www.horsecross.co.uk

13th -17th February 2013 Snowdrops by Starlight 2013 Cambo Estate Snowdrops by Starlight 2013 is a beautiful new light and sound trail around Cambos stunning and world renowned Snowdrop Estate. There will be dramatic new landscapes, magical walks, a Woodland Art Gallery, storytelling and much

www.familiesfife.co.uk

Have a ball!

L

ooking for a competitive, enjoyable day out for you and your friends, somewhere original and exciting for the family or the opportunity to have the most fun birthday party? Then why not come along to Adventure Golf Island! Months of gloating could be yours by sinking that winning putt on the 18th. You are sure to love it, whether you are an expert golfer or have never held a club before!

Not only does Adventure Golf Island have 2 outstanding 18 hole courses, but now they has an inflatable Paintball shooting range great for having a practice of shooting a gun or showing off to your friends and family your pro skills. The Paintball shooting range is available to anyone from the age of 8 and up. It is fully enclosed, so can be played in the rain, hail or shine!

Great for birthday parties, stag and hen nights, team building or just another activity for a family day out. So come on down and splatter and obliterate the targets under a hail of paint. This is what other customers have said “It was really fun and the rotating targets keep you on your toes” “I thought my dad would be the best but I’ve been practicing on call of duty so I was better.”

Also for the winter Adventure Golf Island are opening a spectacular ice rink which is great for young kids who have never skated and are too intimidated to go on the large clustered ice rinks elsewhere, or even for the adults who want to get on the ice and show their skills or lack of! The ice rink will be available till the end of March so hurry before you miss your chance!  So for more information on a great day out just go to www.adventure-golf-island.com

more including special winter warming indoor and al fresco catering. This is not a timed walk visitors can arrive at any time during opening hours though we recommend visitors to give themselves at least an hour to walk round and longer if they wish to take in the storytelling and other amenities. 5pm -9.15pm each evening.

CAR PARKING: New for this year is free car parking on site at the Cambo Estate. The car park will be fully sign posted on arrival. The illuminated trails

start just yards from the car park area.

www.snowdropsbystarlight.com Saturday 16th February Build a Bird a Home RSPB Loch Leven Valentine’s Day is traditionally the date when birds start to pair up and think about making a nest. Celebrate National Nestbox Week at RSPB Loch Leven and hammer together your own nest box to take home Cost: RSPB Members £5/non members £8 11am - 3pm RSPB Loch Leven Centre, Vane Farm Reserve, Kinross, KY13 9LX

To book telephone: 01577 862355 The Jack & Jill Market - Dunfermline 10.30am -1.30pm 40 stalls bursting with quality nearly-new baby& kids items, clothes, toys, books, equipment & a large item gallery full of cots, buggies, bikes, highchairs & much more!!

(0-9yrs).Snap up great BARGAINS and SAVE £££.

The Vine Venue, 131 Garvock Hill, Dunfermline KY11 4JU.

For more info visit: www.jackandjillmarket.co.uk The Singing Kettle Fairytale Castle’ Alhambra Theatre Dunfermline The Singing Kettle’s sensational Fairytale Castle is overflowing with superb audience participation, non-stop favourite songs and amazing costumes. This electrifying singalong will enthral both young and old and is the perfect treat for the whole family. Cilla the Good Fairy, Artie the Mad Hatter, Gary as Prince Charming and Kevin as the Pied Piper will see the Singing Kettle at their breathtaking best.

www.alhambradunfermline.com Saturday 23rd February Horsecross Stories Perth Concert Hall Storytelling workshops for 3yrs+ 10.15am – 10.55am. Foyer, Perth Concert Hall.

Grab a coffee and relax as your child is whisked off into a magical fairy tale world with puppets and pictures. Let our storytellers take their imagination on an amazing adventure through time as they tell their tall tales. Led by a different storyteller each month.

Free to attend and no need to book in advance.

Saturday 2nd March 2013 The Jack & Jill Market - Dunfermline 10.30am -1.30pm 40 stalls bursting with quality nearly-new baby & kids items, clothes, toys, books, equipment & a large item gallery full of cots, buggies, bikes, highchairs & much more!!

(0-9yrs).Snap up great BARGAINS and SAVE £££.

The Vine Venue, 131 Garvock Hill, Dunfermline KY11 4JU.

For more info visit: www.jackandjillmarket.co.uk

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.

Issue 16 Families Fife | 15

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

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

We can advise on: l Childcare

costs and how to pay

l Options

- nursery or childminder l 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

Registered charity:1093411

WEAR A HAT DAY Thursday 28 th March

2013

REGISTER NOW | Tel: 01296 733011

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