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

Issue 19 Nov/Dec 2013

In this issue

• Where to find Santa • Christmas shows and events • Christmas gift guide

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

y Come and enjo Falkirk’s newurs! fantastic flavo

Glen Farm Glen Village Falkirk FK1 3AA Tel. 01324 630703 www.themilkbarn.co.uk

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

info@singledup.co.uk

WIN a family ticket to Beauty and the Beast at the Macrobert, Stirling

www.familiescentralscotland.co.uk

07506 697509

WIN a copy of The Gruffalo’s Wean or Horace the Haggis and the Ghost Dog

editor@familiescentralscotland.co.uk

079302 64979

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.

‒ New, highly compet it ive rates

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

‒ 1 teacher for ever y 8 children

‒ ‘Wrap -a round ’ ca re from 8a m to 6pm ‒ A 46 week package ‒ Diverse teaching: from learning Spanish to unrivalled outdoor education

Tel. 01786 832146 www.beaconhurst.com

Discover yourself at Beaconhurst

Christmas All Wrapped Up!

Countdown to Christmas with our advent of daily deals & offers @

www.falkirkcommu nitytrust.org @FCTrust

/FalkirkCommunityTrust

Supported by Falkirk Council

contents News and views..............................................................................................4-5 Welcome to the November/December issue of Families Central Scotland. This issue is packed with lots to do over the next 2 months. We have a great local shows and events feature, our essential where to find Santa and a fantastic gift guide with some great pressie ideas and top toys for this Christmas! Read our twelve days of an active Christmas article and have some outdoor fun with the kids . All this and our regular features – out and about, news and views and parent to parent, phew… hopefully that is enough to keep you all busy!!! Reader competitions Win a family ticket to Beauty and the Beast at the MacBob..................pg 7 Win a copy of The Gruffalo’s Wean or a copy of Horace the Haggis and the Ghost Dog.................................................................................................pg 12

Fiona & Louise the editors

To advertise with us or to have your event listed in our magazine email editor@familiescentralscotland.co.uk

Shows and events...........................................................................................6-7 Where to find Santa.....................................................................................8-9 Gift guide.......................................................................................................10-11 Twelve days of an active Christmas...................................................12-13 Parent to parent............................................................................................... 14 Out and about............................................................................................15-19 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 Front cover - Yours Truly Photography www.yourstrulyphotography.co.uk

Bookings are now being taken for the January/February 2014 issue – deadline 1st December Find us on facebook www.facebook.com/FamCS and on twitter @familiescentral and visit our website for more articles and our local directory www.familiescentralscotland.co.uk

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.

Christmas memorial service

Baby loves massage

Massage has been used for hundreds of years, by people from many cultures. Over the last few decades the benefits of baby massage in particular have been highlighted. In today’s hurry, baby massage provides the perfect opportunity to take some time for you and your baby to relax and get to know one another.

A Christmas memorial service for families who have experienced the trauma of losing a baby is being held in Stirling. The service will take place in St Mary’s Church, Upper Bridge Street, FK8 1ES on Friday 6th December at 7.30pm.

Baby Loves Massage is the new business venture of Susan McGill, a qualified nurse, midwife, health visitor and baby massage instructor. “The benefits a family gain by learning to massage their baby are enormous, from helping bonding, soothing baby, helping with sleep routines and colic, to enhancing the immune system - and that’s just for the baby!” said Susan “ I

The Lights of Love event is being organised by Forth Valley Sands (Stillbirth and Neonatal Death Charity) and provides parents the opportunity to come together and acknowledge the lives of their babies at this difficult time of year. The Scottish Cot Death Trust will also be taking part in the service.

am looking forward to helping mums and dads learn the skills involved in baby massage. Small classes (of up to 8 mum/dads with their baby), will begin after the October holiday in Dunblane and Cambusbarron, for babies aged 4 weeks until they can crawl. The course lasts for 4 weeks and costs £40. Saturday morning Dads classes TBC. One-to-one, ante- natal and pre-term baby classes by arrangement. Please contact Susan on 07816280125 or susan@babylovesmassage.org for further details and to book a place.

TKD Tigers

Garry Shaw Martial Arts provides world class tuition in TaeKwon-Do and Kickboxing from beginner level through to Black Belt and beyond. Garry runs a TKD tigers club in Falkirk which is a fantastic specific programme for children aged 3 – 6 years teaching stranger danger drills, bully drills, health and nutrition, emergency skills, teamwork and leadership all in one course. This course runs throughout the year including school holidays.

The service consists of traditional carols, inspiring readings and beautiful music and there will also be an opportunity for people to light a candle in memory of their loved one.

TaeKwon-Do is for all ages and is becoming very popular for its self defence and discipline. There is much to learn including sparring, kicking techniques, fitness and wellbeing, all carried out in a fun way. Our gym is fully matted for your child’s safety. Visit our website www.shawmartialarts.co.uk for more information or call Garry on 07734 461615

Everyone is welcome to attend and no booking is necessary. For more information or directions to the venue, please visit www.forthvalleysands. org.uk or contact Caroline on 07948 562321.

Salvation Army, clubs in Falkirk

The Salvation Army, Falkirk are running 3 great clubs for children, toddlers and babies. On a Tuesday and Friday the Parent and Toddler, Wee Stars Group meet from 930-1130am, the cost of this group is £3 and includes ball pit, time in the café, a healthy snack for children and a cuppa for the adult. There is a waiting list for this club so call quickly to get your name added. The Baby Song Group is an adult and baby/toddler singing group for 0-3 year olds and meets on a Wednesday from 101045am, this group is FREE for all!! The ‘Safe til Six’ After School Club is weekdays from 3-6pm and can hold 50 children, a school holiday club is also available for out of school hours, places are limited so call now to make enquiries. Falkirk Salvation Army, 1 Woodside Court, Falkirk, FK1 5AN – call 01324 627425 to enquire about all of the above.

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

families central scotland / issue 19

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

Beaconhurst sports project gets top marks A Beaconhurst sports initiative which teaches movement skills to children as young as three has been backed by Stirling University academics. Researchers launched a study into the project which sees nursery pupils learning basic skills such as running, jumping and throwing during daily PE sessions. The research, led by Stirling Sports Studies graduate Ross McKechnie, evaluated the project by comparing the Beaconhurst youngsters with a control group of pre-school children from another nursery. He analysed how well each group performed tasks like hopping, jumping and catching a ball and found the Beaconhurst children “significantly outperformed” their peers in these movement skills. The Beaconhurst programme is delivered by nursery staff at the independent Bridge of Allan school who have all completed a ten-week Fundamental Movement Skills (FMS) course. The course was developed by Stirling University’s School of Sport following studies which show early childhood is a critical period to develop such skills. Beaconhurst’s Director of Sport Judith Ramsay is delighted with the endorsement given by the academic study. She says: “From the start we knew the project was something quite different and it was important to monitor what we were doing and gauge its impact on our children. We are delighted with the results and will continue to monitor the pupils involved.”

Park and Ride, direct to Scotland’s Heart this Christmas Travel to Stirling by car, and continue your journey to the City Centre by bus. Get there quickly without worrying about parking charges or traffic jams. Let the bus take away the hassle of driving and parking in Stirling this festive season. Our two Park and Ride sites offer free parking and provide a frequent bus service direct to the City Centre. As well as the usual service, Springkerse will operate buses on Sundays throughout December giving you an extra day to take advantage of the free parking. An adult return is £1.20, a child return only 60p and under 5s travel for free! You can use your sat-nav to find us by using the postcode FK7 7TL for Springkerse or FK9 4TW to travel to Castleview. For full information on the Park & Ride Service visit www.stirling.gov.uk

For more information about Beaconhurst School check out the website at www.beaconhurst.com

Magical letter from Santa

Make this Christmas a truly memorable one by sending a child you know a magical letter from Santa. For a suggested donation of £5 to the NSPCC your child will receive a fun, colourful and personalised letter from the man himself. Every £5 raised could ensure when a child needs help Childline is there to answer their call. Every penny makes a difference!! The reindeer mailroom will be open until Monday 16th December and all who request a letter from Santa this year will be entered into a free prize draw to win a once in a lifetime trip to Lapland for a family of four. Go to www.christmas.nspcc.org.uk/Santa or call 0845 839 9304 to place your order.

Christmas shows & events

Christmas shows & events Wednesday 27th November to Sunday 5th January

Arts and Crafts at Callendar House Inspired by the Victorian decoration of the kitchen, drop in and join in the craft fun making your own snowman spoon. The sessions run in the afternoon and should take approximately 15 minutes (all children must be accompanied by an adult) and be prepared to get covered in glitter! 2-4pm FREE suitable for ages 3-12.

Saturday 16th November to 21st December The Victorian Kitchen at Christmas, Callendar House Sample life below stairs and find out how the Victorians prepared for the Christmas festivities. Help Cook stir the Christmas pudding and sample popular dishes from Victorian times including mince pies, shortbread, Scotch Christmas Bun and cloutie dumpling. Pop in on a Saturday in the afternoon, and you might be right on time to try a piece of the slow roasted turkey too! FREE Saturday 16th 23rd 30th November and 7th 14th 21st and 28th December Christmas Lantern Hunt at Callendar House Follow the trail of Christmas lanterns hidden around Callendar House. They will light your way as you discover the story of 12 Christmas traditions. Complete the trail and enter the Mystery Prize Draw! FREE Children must be accompanied. Tuesday 26th to Saturday 30th November Larbert Amateur Dramatics society present Mother Goose at the Dobbie Hall in Larbert. Great family fun and entertainment. Tickets Available from the Steeple Box office on 01324 506850.

Saturday 30th November, 7th and 15th December

Sunday 1st, 8th, and 14th December Beauty and The Beast at the Macrobert, Stirling Written, directed by and starring Johnny McKnight. Once Upon A Time in a far, far, faraway land, further than even Falkirk, lived a handsome young Prince and a beautiful young girl named Belle. Stirling Stella is not a happy place. The recession is STILL in full force. Bunty Buntock is worried about her two children, Belle and Sebastian. Belle is sick of men, especially her psycho-ex Gaston, who keeps slapping his thighs and declaring Belle his prize. All Belle wants is her equal (oh and to win the Stirling Stella Showchoir competition). Sebastian is tired of being the silly billy, if only the local evil witch Valentina Rizzla would notice him. And think on poor Prince Matthew Creepy-Crawley, confined to the ground of Bouffin Abbey. He used to be the heart-throb of Stirling Stella, and now thanks to an evil curse he’s scarier than Bigfoot. Who would know that a stolen rose and a Showchoir final, would change their lives forever? The greatest love story in the pantosphere as you’ve never heard it before. Part Grease, part Downton Abbey and a whole lot of fun! For tickets phone 01786 466666 or book online at www.macrobert.org.uk

families central scotland / issue 19

Re:Action Drama present “Tales from the house” Callendar House has a long and varied history, which has inspired youth drama group Re:Action over the past few months. This promenade performance, by members of the group, guides you through the house (literally, from room to room) and brings its history to life! For tickets phone 01324 506850. Tuesday 3rd to Saturday 7th December Sleeping Beauty at the Dunblane Centre. Traditional family panto fun. For tickets phone 01786 824224.

Tuesday 3rd to Sunday 29th December The Little Boy that Santa Forgot at the Macrobert. Johnny hates Christmas. The presents, the tree, Brussels sprouts. Yuck! The problem is that Johnny lives next door to Mr McGregor. Mr McGregor

loves Christmas. Every year Mr McGregor gives Johnny a present but Johnny doesn’t want it. That is, until this year. This year there is no present. And no sign of Mr McGregor either. Now Johnny must search for clues and discover the truth about his presents and what has happened to the mysterious Mr McGregor. An adventure story for 3-6 year olds about gifts, friendship and eating your vegetables. For tickets phone 01786 466666. Friday 6th to Saturday 14th December (ex Monday) Falkirk Youth Theatre present Jack and The Beanstalk at the Falkirk Town Hall. Following on from the success of Cinderella last year, this year’s classic is once again written by Simon Beattie for our Falkirk Youth Theatre. Featuring giants, beanstalks, laughter, songs and dancing (plus a few madcap characters) this year’s pantomime will make this Christmas magical, festive and fun! For tickets and information phone The Steeple Box office on 01324 506850. Saturday 7th December Howie’s kids Club at the Howgate Shopping centre Song & Dance Factory Christmas Show. Morning show with Peppa Pig and Iggle Piggle and an afternoon show with Buzz & Woody. www. intohowgate.co.uk Tuesday 10th to Sunday 22nd December Innocence at the Macrobert. A unique playroom performance, Innocence invites 0-3 year olds (and their adults), to explore the world of William Blake’s imagination. Together with Scottish Dance Theatre’s captivating dancers, join us on a magical theatrical journey full of song, dance

and play with live music by Paul Bradley. Innocence is a wonderful dance experience for young ones, their families and friends this Christmas. For tickets phone 01786 466666.

with the Baron’s comedy capers and laugh along at the Christmas puppet show. You can also learn about the traditions of Christmas and get the chance see the traditional festive foods served at court. Included in admission price. 12.30-3.40 in the Great Hall. Christmas events at Briarlands Farm nr Stirling

Sunday 15th December Christmas at Stirling Castle Join us in the spectacular setting of Stirling Castle for an afternoon of festive fun. Sing-along with music from the Swinging Santas, join in

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

On Sunday 22nd December there will be a family carol sing along, on Saturday 28th December and Sunday 5th January, there will be a family walk. Enjoy a traffic free walk around country lanes leaving from the farm. On Sunday 29th December there will be a family film day in the farmers den. For details please phone 01786 841309 or check the facebook page at www. facebook.com/briarlandsfarm

WIN

A family ticket to see Beauty and the Beast at the Macrobert. To enter our prize draw please email us at editor@ familiescentralscotland.co.uk and put Macrobert in the subject box. Closing date is 30.11.2013

Christmas and Festive Fairs/Markets Christmas Craft fair at the Dunblane Centre – Saturday 16th November Howgate Shopping Centre Festive Craft Fair – 29th and 30th November Falkirk Jack and Jill market – Sunday 1st December Dunblane Craft Market – Sunday 1st December Alloa Tower Christmas Fayre – 1st (1-4.30pm) and 2nd December (4.30-8.30pm) Stirling Castle Christmas Fayre – Tuesday 3rd December (6-9pm) Falkirk Town Centre Festive Farmers market – Friday 6th December Springkerse View Stirling, Festive Craft Fair Saturday 7th December 12-5pm Tryst Craft Market, Dobbie Hall, Larbert – Saturday 7th December Briarlands Farm, nr Stirling, Christmas Country Fair Sunday 8th December Craft Fair at Grangemouth Town Hall – Saturday 14th December Bridge of Allan Primary School Christmas fair – Saturday 14th December Stirling Farmers Market – 14th and 21st December

Stagecoach Stirling is now taking bookings for the Spring term! For a Prospectus call Stagecoach Stirling now on 0131 337 7774 or email: stirling@stagecoach.co.uk

Where to find santa Santa in Alloa

Santa will be in his grotto in Tree Tops in Mill Street every Saturday from 23rd November 10-4, and also on 21st to 23rd December. Santa’s reindeer will be visiting on 14th December. www. facebook.com/AlloaTownCentre

Bo’ness and Kinneil Railway

Make a great start to the festive season with a visit to Santa aboard the Bo’ness and Kinneil Steam Train. During the journey Santa will meet all the children on the train and give each one a present. There will be refreshments available and a festive sing along. Trains run, 30th Nov/1st Dec,7th/8th Dec 14th/15th and Dec, 21st/22nd Dec. Booking is essential, phone 01506 825855 or visit www.bkrailway.co.uk

Cadgers Brae, Brewers Fayre, Beancross, Falkirk Come and have breakfast with Santa, every weekend in December and on Tuesday 24th (Christmas Eve) at Cadgers Brae nr Polmont. The event starts at 9.30 and costs £7.99 per child which includes breakfast, (eat as much as they want) a visit to Santa in his grotto, a gift and play in the fun factory soft play. Pre booking advisable. All the parents can join in too and can have their own ‘all you can eat breakfast’ for £8.25. Phone 01324 720726 to book or for more details.

Santa in Dunblane

5 Y ea rs +

Santa and his reindeer will parade down the High Street on Thursday 28th November at 5pm; he will then be in his grotto all evening. There will also be live music, family entertainment and great Christmas shopping in all the local shops. Dunblane High Street 5-9pm

Whilst every care has been taken to compile these dates, please remember that this magazine is prepared some weeks in advance so please check before setting out to avoid disappointment.

Santa’s Super Sleigh Parade in Falkirk

On Saturday 14th December Santa will parade from the Bandstand up the High Street and back from 3.30pm.The rousing finale to this year’s town centre festive events will feature the Q20 Theatre Group’s Super Sleigh. Santa will be joined by Frosty the Snowman, the stilt walking Christmas Trees, Rudolph and the Christmas Elves. Christmas shopping with a very special treat for the youngsters in the family.

A Magical Christmas at The Falkirk Wheel

Santa and all his elves will once again be transforming the Falkirk Wheel into a winter wonderland. Tickets £10.95 per person, and includes a gift for each child. Babies go free and will receive a token gift. Boat trips available on Saturday 14th and Sunday 15th December, Friday 20th to Tuesday 24th December Call 08700 500 208 to book your Santa trip now, early booking is highly recommended

The Carse of Stirling Rotary

Santa and his sleigh will be visiting a street near you courtesy of the Carse of Stirling Rotary. Santa’s helpers will be collecting money for local charities. The collections are generally between 6-8pm. Thursday 5th December Torbrex, Sunday 8th Broomridge, Monday 9th Braehead, Tuesday 10th Riverside, Thursday 12th Coney Park, Monday 16th Bannockburn, Tuesday 17th Cambusbarron, and Thursday 19th Kings Park.

PlanetKeys Music Centre

Bo’ness - Saturday 7th December 2-4pm (parade through the Town Centre) Grangemouth - Saturday 7h December 10-12noon (parade through Town Centre to La Porte Precinct) Denny - Saturday 30th November 122pm. Stenhousemuir - Saturday 30th November 3-5pm (in the precinct) Falkirk Town Centre - Sunday 8th December 2pm-4pm Santa and his reindeer will parade from the band stand up the High Street and back to Callendar Square.

Wee Bopper Jingle Bell Baby Disco

Come and visit Santa at the Wee Bopper Disco on Sunday 15th December 2-4pm, with Christmas songs, sing a long, face painting, and live DJ. See www.weebopperdiscos.co.uk for details and tickets.

‘Safe til Six’ After School Club Weekedays from 3pm - 6pm

Babysong Group - adult and baby/toddler singing group

All books and materials are included

Parent and Toddlers - Wee Stars Group

Prize weeks, games and activities Recordings of progress 100% Interactive classes Keyboard, Piano and Guitar

Only £12 Per Hour Book a FREE TRIAL with us

Santa and his Reindeer will be arriving in a town near you. Come along and join in the festivities in Bo’ness, Grangemouth, Denny, Stenhousemuir and Falkirk. There will be family entertainment with some of your favourite characters, and music at some venues including the Forth Bridges Accordion Band, local Glee Clubs, school choirs, Bad Wolf Theatre Company and Falkirk Children’s and Youth Theatre Company.

Fun, Educational and Creative Music Classes Small Classes – up to 4 students

www.PlanetKeys.co.uk

Santa and his Aviemore Reindeer in and around Falkirk

01786 448 417

families central scotland / issue 19

Wednesday 10am - 10.45am FREE, 0-3 years

Tuesday 9.30am 11.30am or Friday 9.30am - 11.30am includes a ball pit time in our cafe.

Falkirk Salvation Army, 1 Woodside Court Falkirk, FK1 5AN

Call 01324 627425 falkirk@salvationarmy.org.uk

Where to find santa Stirling Town Centre and the Thistles Shopping Centre

See Santa and his reindeer parade through town on Sunday 17th November. The parade starts at 12noon from the Albert Halls and ends with the opening of Santa’s grotto within the Thistles shopping centre at 12.30pm. The reindeer will then be outside Costa Coffee until 2pm so don’t forget your camera! Santa will be in his grotto (near HMV) every day until 24th December. For details visit www.thethistles.com

Falkirk Round Table

Santa will be visiting a street near you in Falkirk between 8th to the 19th December.

Santa At Dobbies

There will be family fun and entertainment on Sunday 17th November (11am) as we welcome Santa to Dobbies. He will then be in his grotto every weekend until Christmas. Check in store for details or phone Dobbies Stirling on 01786 458860.

Santa at The Bo’ness Toy Shop

Santa will be at The Bo’ness Toy Shop on Saturday 16th November and Saturday 7th December. £5 per child and each child will receive a quality gift. www.thebonesstoyshop.com

Breakfast with Santa at Springkerse View Stirling

Come and have breakfast with Santa, Sunday 15th December. 10-12 noon. £10 per head which includes breakfast, a visit to Santa, a gift and play in the soft play. Pre booking advisable. Phone 01786 446092 for more details.

Santa at Sterling Homestore, Tillicoultry Come and visit Santa at the Sterling Homestore every Saturday/Sunday from 30th November/1st December to 21st/22nd December. Courtesy of the Rotary Club of Alloa. 12.00 3.00pm. Price includes a quality gift and a professionally taken photograph. All proceeds will be donated to local charities.

The Howgate Shopping Centre Falkirk

From Saturday 16th November, the magical world of Lapland will descend onto the town centre when Santa arrives in The Howgate Shopping Centre. He will open his spectacular Grotto and children will be able to visit him on 16th/17th November, 23rd/24th November and then every day from 30th November until the 24th December. A visit to Santa costs £3.50 (includes gift). Photography and additional gift items may be purchased and on line booking will be available. For more information visit www.intohowgate.co.uk

Christmas lights switch near you Grangemouth Town Centre Saturday 16th November - Family entertainment from 2pm, switch on at 5.00pm. Bo’ness Town Centre Saturday 16th November - Family entertainment from 2pm, switch on at 4.00pm. Stirling Town Centre Sunday 17th November – Family entertainment from 12noon starting with Santa parade through town, switch on at 5.00pm. Falkirk Town Centre Sunday 17th November – Family entertainment from 3pm with live music and your favourite characters. Switch on at 5.00pm. Alloa Town Centre Saturday 23rd November - Family entertainment in the afternoon and switch on at 4pm. Stenhousemuir Town Centre Saturday 30th November - Family entertainment and Santa from 2-4pm, switch on at 5.00pm.

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

Open 7 days a week during November & December Toy Hub - 7 High Street - Dunblane 9

Christmas gift guide We have asked some of our fantastic local shops for their top Christmas gift ideas, so read on to get some great ideas for this Christmas.

Common Ground Games, Christmas top 5 Buy quality time for all the family this Christmas with one of our boardgames, from Hey That’s My Fish to Spartacus we stock Scotland’s widest selection of board games for all ages and experience. If you’re looking for the perfect gift for the gamer in your life we stock a huge range of miniatures for Wargames as well as collectible card games and accessories. Gifts for the whole family this year; 1. X-Wing (12+) Become the pilot of a spacecraft in the Star Wars universe in an elegant, easy to learn space combat game which comes with pre painted spaceships. 2. Settlers of Catan (10+) One of the most successful games of recent times and an enduring classic. 3. Tsuro (6+) A deceptively simple game system giving hours of entertainment for all ages. 4. Survive (8+) Escape from a sinking island while avoiding the attentions of Sea Monsters and fellow players. 5. Dixit (8+) Every card tells a story, choose the correct one to move on. Beautiful artwork and innovative design make this game a firm family favourite.

DS, e h t n w Put do for... it’s time

Common Ground Games is an independent games venue in Stirling, Cowane Street. We have 20 tournament size wargaming tables, tables for cards, board and role playing games. This is the ideal venue to play and meet like minded gamers, to think strategically, calculate, plot, avenge and milyscrummy have fun together. The venue has a fantasticforshop the faand es anguard m a g ght Vfor fi rd a café which sells delicious coffee, come visit us and see yourself. rd a C • Bo , h o ures -gire figwww. tu agic, Yu Street, ia Common Ground Games, 40• M Cowane Stirling in m rray of commongroundgames.co.uk • A vast aand toasties • Coffee nd treats sa • Snack table ng ti in a •P ts location weekend even • Great nd a l o o h c • After s

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

KidsPlayKit, Christmas top 5 At KidsPlayKit.com our aim is to help parents create fun, organised and happy homes with a range of great quality, affordable and innovative play equipment, toys, playroom furniture and accessories that provide children with a sense of adventure and excitement, encourage their development, learning and imagination through play and discovery. We stock a great range of Millhouse wooden toys that are made in the UK...not many companies can say that these days! Here are our top 5 Millhouse toys that we are sure will be a big hit this Christmas! Visit our website at www.kidsplaykit. com or Call 08000 965 865

Millhouse Lollipop Easel £78.00 is Millhouse’s highest spec, top of the range easel. Made from the finest quality birch plywood, this easel will stand up to everything your budding Picasso can throw at it!

Millhouse Red Country Kitchen £89 The wooden toy kitchen features a charming Belfast Sink next to a hob top with rotating dials. The oven door also features our hallmark anti finger trap door hinges which prevent little digits from nasty nips. Millhouse Packaway Shop £89 can be positioned in a corner, along a wall or in the centre of a room to maximise all round play space. Best of all, it can easily be folded up and carried away for neat, compact storage when play time is over. Millhouse Stage School Dressing Up Trolley £100 comes complete with a ‘frontstage’ and ‘backstage’ area. Multi-directional castors allow the unit to be moved around freely and easily with little effort. Millhouse Dinosaur Toy Box Desk £99 This innovative storage unit cleverly maximises space by doubling as a worktop and play table for children.

Your local independent toy shops The Bo’ness Toy Shop 13 North Street, Bo’ness 01506 828002 www.thebonesstoyshop. com

Carters Toy Shop 2 King Street Stirling 01786 448988 www.carterstoyshop. co.uk

families central scotland / issue 19

Good Green Fun Unit 32 Stirling Enterprise Park Stirling 01786 849216 www.goodgreenfun. co.uk

Common Ground Games 40 Cowane Street, Stirling 01786 357414 www. commongroundgames. co.uk

Toy Hub 7 High Street Dunblane 01786 825933 www.thehubdirect.co.uk

Christmas gift guide Toy Hub with Christmas Smiles Guaranteed The nights are drawing in and lots of families are planning in earnest to have a fantastic family Christmas. At Toy Hub we work hard to help you make sure that your Christmas smiles are guaranteed. We have all the top toys in store, from LEGO to Playmobil, Barbie to Monster High and of course all the top family games to keep you entertained throughout the festive season. Our collectable ranges also make great stocking fillers with low low prices making it easy to stuff that stocking full of special treats! If you need help deciding just the right toy you can call in and see us in store or contact us on twitter @toyhubconcierge for 1-2-1 advice. We think some of this year’s must-have toys for Christmas are:

Top Toys

Top Stocking Fillers

• • • • • • • • • •

Furby Boom £60 LEGO Minecraft 21102 The Forrest £35 Nerf N-Strike from £10 LEGO Friends Dolphin Cruiser £60 Robofish & Playsets from £10 Skylanders Swap Force Game & Characters from £9 Pillow Pets Dream Lites £20 Think fun Rush Hour Game £15 Disney Planes Aircraft Carrier £35 Monster High 13 Wishes Dolls £23

Pillow Pet Keychain £4 Lil’ Zelfs £2.50 LEGO Minifigures £2 Uno Card Game £7 Finger Spies £1 Skylanders Swap Force Cards £1 One Direction Tattoos £2 Hexbug Nano V2 £8 Playmobil Minifigures £2 V-tech Toot Toot Drivers £6.50

Convenience is key at Toy Hub just pop by and see us 7 days a week throughout November and December or visit our website www.toyhubdirect.co.uk and shop from your own home. Presents can be reserved for free collection from our Dunblane High Street store or we can offer full UK wide delivery which is free when you spend over £40. Toy Hub, 7 High Street, Dunblane 01786 825933 Are you looking for a great book to give as a present this Christmas, here are two fantastic books for younger children, although as an adult I love them too!! As a wee Christmas treat we have copies of each book that you could win, read on to find out more. Horace the Haggis and the Ghost Dog When the moon is full and the sky lights up with fire, beware the Ghost Dog! Pity nobody told Horace the Haggis. When he sets off to the Secret Loch to teach the accident-prone Professor Nut the bagpipes, our hair-gelled hero has no idea what is lurking among the dark trees. In the sequel to the hugely popular and bestselling Horace and the Haggis Hunter all the old Acre Valley friends are back – Martha Mouse, Ferdy Fox, Major Mole, Ronald Rook and, of course, Stacey and Tracey, the Tweeting magpies. Horace’s arch-enemy, The Cat With No Name, is never far away either, along with her fearsome allies Skull, Fang and Needletooth. Be Scared. Be Very Scared. (But have a laugh, too.). Created by Sally Magnusson and Norman Stone, Horace the Haggis is a loveable Scottish children’s book character with a timeless quality and a modern twist, and surrounded by his band of woodland creatures in Acre Valley, this is an adventure for the whole family. The Gruffalo’s Wean One wild and windy night the Gruffalo’s Wean ignores her father’s warning and tiptoes out into the snow. After all, the Muckle Mad Moose doesn’t really exist … does he? When Itchy Coo’s Scots version of The Gruffalo was published in 2012 it immediately became a Scottish children’s bestseller. In the same format and using the same rich Scots vocabulary that has thrilled thousands of readers, the sequel is here. Using rhymes and cleverly laid visual clues this is just as much a spine-tingling, mock-scary tale as the original.

WIN

Courtesy of Black and White publishing Families Central Scotland have 3 copies of Horace the Haggis and the Ghost Dog and 5 copies of The Gruffalo’s Wean to give away. To enter our prize draw simply email editor@ familiescentralscotland.co.uk with the name of the book you would like to win and your name to enter our prize draw. Competition closes December 6th.

12 days of an active Christmas The twelve days of an active Christmas

3. Try leaf rubbing - Children

12 outdoor play ideas to get your child active this winter Outdoor play and exposure to nature is one of the best and most effective ways to educate children about the world around them and encourage environmental awareness. Getting children active outdoors is also vital for their health and physical development as well as helping them to improve their sensory, cognitive and social skills.

can create their very own autumn inspired artwork by leaf rubbing. Simply take a large leaf and place on a hard surface. Put a piece of plain paper over the leaf and gently rub over the leaf with a crayon and the leaf pattern will appear on the page. You can have hours of fun by experimenting with different types of leaves and coloured crayons.

Despite the weather, the winter months provide a surprisingly wide range of fun and exciting outdoor learning opportunities for your children.

7. Briarlands - Open all year round,

4. Get wet! - Allowing children to

1. Fly a kite - What better way to

spend a breezy, sunny winter day than flying a kite. You could even get creative and have a go at making your own. Encourage your child to run, jump and chase their kite to keep them active.

play with water is not only fun, it can also teach basic science. Encourage your child to throw different objects (sticks, stones, leaves etc.) Get them to guess if they will float or sink. Teach them to skim. The Falkirk Wheel has a fantastic water park, so get those wellies on and have a great splash about.

2. Have a nature walk adventure Organise a treasure

all year for your first ookings new b ec Nov-D

walks into fun. Cycle, climb trees, sing, play simple games such as eye spy, tag and hide and seek or build simple dens with fallen branches, moss and leaves. Check out Gartmorn Dam for some great walks as well as Beecraigs Country Park, Muiravonside and Plean Country Park. All on your door step and all free. Callendar Park has loads of lovely walks and paths for you to enjoy and of course the all important tea room to get a hot drink after a brisk winters walk.

6. Blow bubbles - Itâ€™s easy to make

your own bubble potion. All you need

Then simply arrange a visit to one of our local nurseries or visit us online to see what all the smiles are about:)

www.littlestarsnurseries.co.uk

ALLOA

Call: 01259 720 142

5. Make walks fun - Turn boring

family friendly cycle paths, either along the canal, down at The Helix, the Callendar Estates or along the Hillfoots. Just wrap up warm and check on our website at www. familiescentralscotland.co.uk for more suggestions or visit www. sustrans.org.uk or the Stirling Cycle Hub at www.stirlingcyclehub.org Check out our whatâ€™s on and our website for details of family bike rides.

Are you looking for safe, exciting and nurturing childcare in Scotland.

Big smiles wit

FALKIRK

Call: 01324 636 377

families central scotland / issue 19

little stars nursery strip ad.indd 1

what better place for the kids to run about outside on the bouncy pillows, go carts and play equipment and for you to enjoy a well deserved cup of tea and delicious home baking. There are also animal tours where you can help to feed some of the animals. Ask about the tours at the ticket desk. www.briarlandsfarm.co.uk

8. Cycling - There are some fantastic

hunt or get children to find and collect a list of objects. Feathers, leaves, fir cones, acorns and animal foot prints are great things for children to look for. www.huntfun. co.uk have downloadable maps for exploring various towns in Scotland, or try www.naturedetectives.org.uk which has loads of colourful activity cards and little booklets that can be downloaded and taken on walks. Visit the Woodland Trust at www. visitwoods.org.uk where you can find a local wood to walk and play in. Why not try Geocaching? It is free and there are over 300 geocaches in the Central Belt. Pop onto our website for an article on Geocaching in the Falkirk, Stirling and Clacks areas.

5% off

is water, washing up liquid and a dash of sugar to thicken the mixture. Using coat hangers and pipe cleaners you can easily make your own bubble blowers and create bubbles in all different shapes and sizes.

GLASGOW

Call: 0141 427 0020

Where the stars of the future shine! HILLINGTON

Call: 0141 570 4080

STIRLING

Call: 01786 445 552 14/10/2013 15:19

12 days of an active Christmas

9. Winter BBQ/campfire/ice cream! - Yes we know

it is winter by why not dust off the BBQ, get your coats hats and scarves on and enjoy a winter barbie, even if it is just to toast marshmallows under the stars! Alternatively why not head for The Milk Barn in Falkirk, the ice cream is made on the farm and doesn’t just have to be for a hot day! www. themilkbarn.co.uk There is a children’s play area and fibre glass cow and a chance to view the ice cream being made so you can see the whole process from milking to the finished product. There is a good cafe selling ice cream (of course!) and lovely home baking and hot food.

NEW BUMPS & BABIES GROUP Mondays 9.30am - 11.00am Mayfield Centre, Stirling

Group for pregnant mums, and families with babies and toddlers. For details see NCT Central Scotland website/Facebook page

or phone: 08442 436079 option 1

HMH THERAPY

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

Classes Forming Now 10. The Wallace Monument and the Abbey Craig.

On a crisp and bright winter’s day, the views from the top are spectacular, there is a good cafe and some great walks all round the Abbey Craig. Use your imagination and go on your own William Wallace walks around the paths and trails. To celebrate St Andrews Day, admission is free on Saturday 30th November and Sunday 1st December. www.nationalwallacemonument. com

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

11. Sledging/Tubing - If the snow comes this winter then

sledging is great fun for kids and adults alike. There are great local hills big and small! Or have you tried tubing? Available at Firpark Ski slope and Polmont Ski slope a group can book a tubing session where you go down the slope in a giant inflatable rubber ring. Brilliant fun for all ages. www.clacksweb.org.uk/ culture/firparkskicentre and www. falkirkcommunitytrust. org/venues/polmonthillski-centre

12. The Helix - Wrap up

warm and visit the Kelpies at The Helix. Explore the new paths either on foot, bicycles, scooters or rollerblades! www.thehelix.co.uk

parent to parent

i I’m Tamsin , I live with my husband Chris and my 4 children Jonathan(16), Timothy(8), Blair(3) and Sofia(18 months). We live in Polmont/Falkirk. I am the owner of Eventulitious Events and I host Wee Boppers Baby Discos, I also organise tribute bands for children and adults.The next events are Halloween Baby Disco, Hannah Montana tribute and Colin Cloud forensic mind reader all on the 3rd November at The Beancross Restaurant, Polmont. Come and meet Santa at the Christmas ‘Jingle Bell’ Disco on the 15th December. For details of these and future events please see www.weeboppersdiscos. co.uk Why you like living where you do? Polmont is a nice place to live with a lovely park, friendly people and good shops. Favourite shop The Braes Larder in Brightons is a great shop for lovely food; it caters well for people with allergies and has very friendly staff. Favourite park We don’t have one particular good park we like to go to lots of different parks.The boys love being on their bikes so Callendar Park in Falkirk and Beecraigs near Linlithgow are both great for cycling. Favourite children’s club/class A music class called Bouncy Tots in Reddingmuirhead Community Centre is lots of fun, lovely lady with lots of energy which the children pick up on and love to join in. Favourite day out Other than my Wee Boppers Baby Discos we love going to Almond Valley in Livingston, lots to do and great value for money. Favourite child friendly restaurant The Park Bistro in Linlithgow is brilliant for children with a nice enclosed play room, it makes between courses more relaxing and the menu is a colouring sheet.

Favourite night out without the kids. A good restaurant and a dance. Best planet saving tip I use reusable nappies, they save your pennies and your bin space but they look cute on your child’s bottom. No parent should be without A handbag full of snacks! With 4 growing kids, it keeps the tantrums and whinging at bay and equals 4 happy kids. Favourite family holiday spot Aviemore and Loch Torridon are both picturesque and great places for exploring with children. We go every year for the summer because I think I would have nervous break down on an aeroplane! Most loved children’s book ‘We’re going on a bear hunt’ by Michael Rosen is great for remembering when you’re trying to get a child to walk. We act it out and it becomes fun! Best children DVD or tele programme My 3 year old is addicted to Octonauts but on reflection it teaches them to be kind and caring and lots of facts about under the sea. Most played with toys Bricks and Lego are always played with most indoors and outside it would be the bikes, trampoline and climbing frame. Biggest waste of money A bumbo seat, was used a handful of times for only minutes. Most successful recipe/food Pampered chef ‘curry in a hurry’ the whole family loves it and it’s ready in 30 minutes. (please see the recipe in Tamsin’s article on our website at www.familiescentralscotland.co.uk )

families central scotland / issue 19

Tamsin’s local recommendations Callendar Park, Falkirk www.falkirkcommunitytrust.co.uk Beecraigs Country Park, nr Linlithgow www.beecraigs.com The Braes Larder, Main Street Brightons www.thebraeslarder.co.uk Bouncy Tots, Contact Lynne on 07710 493104 The Park Bistro, nr Linlithgow www.theparkbistro.co.uk

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. Tuesday 29th October to Saturday 2nd November Project theatre presents Grease at the Falkirk Town Hall Tickets available from The Steeple Box office 01324 506850 Friday 1st November to Sunday 3rd November Art and Design Exhibition at Beaconhurst School. An exhibition of the work of six former Beaconhurst pupils takes place in the school’s Cameron Hall. The opening night is on Friday 1st November from 7pm when cheese and wine will also be on offer. The exhibition showcasing the pupils’ art and design work will also be open from 12-3pm on Saturday 2nd November and Sunday 3rd November. For more information contact the school on 01786 832146. www.beaconhurst.com Saturday 2nd November Howies’ Kids Club at the Howgate centre Join the Glasgow Cook School with their cupcake decorating workshop and a fantastic Cook School competition. FREE To register visit www. intohowgate.co.uk Hopetoun Bonfire and fireworks Night 4-9pm.

Alfie the Little Werewolf (PG) Bo’ness Hippodrome 11am.

Shelters and Storytelling at Jupiter Urban Wildlife Centre, Grangemouth Make some shelters and then gather round the camp fire for stories. 2-4pm. Children must be accompanied. £2 per person. For booking and details contact the ranger on 01324 486475 or email jupiterranger@ swt.org.uk

be accompanied. Phone 01786 458860 Dunblane Craft Market Victoria Halls 11-4pm.

Craft Session at Larbert Library FREE Suitable for ages 4-7 10.30am. Saturday 2nd and Sunday 3rd November Planes (U) Macrobert 11am. Bridge of Allan Contemporary Arts festival Set in the gardens of Vecchia Bologna Restaurant. Bonfire Bash at Briarlands Farm (nr Stirling) Bonfire Bash with our own special Bonfire Party on 3rd November (no Fireworks) 01786 841309 www.facebook.com/ briarlandsfarm Sunday 3rd November Wee Boppers Halloween 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. Little Seedlings Club at Dobbies Find out why leaves turn from green to orange at this time of year and what leafy giants must do to survive throughout for many years. Make an eco friendly masterpiece. FREE Children must

Tuesday 5th November Fireworks Spectacular at Callendar Park FREE Starts at 6.30pm. www. falkirkcommunitytrust.org Wednesday 6th and Thursday 7th November Catherine Wheel presents Lifeboat at the Falkirk Town Hall Lifeboat is the extraordinary true story of courage, survival, and of enduring friendship during the darkest days of WWII. For tickets phone 01324 506850

out & about

14s should be accompanied by an adult). 1-6pm at Common Ground Games, Cowane Street, Stirling. Drop in event, Tickets are free, but places are limited, sign up online to reserve your place.www. thegamespeopleplay.eventbrite. com Under the Trees Wild Welly Boot Walk Mud, puddles, and lots of things to see and do. Meet at Callendar Park. 1.30-3.30pm. £2 For booking details contact Jess on 07854 490550 or email jess@ underthetrees.co.uk

Vintage Fair at Bridge of Allan Church Halls. A fantastic selection of cute collectables, furniture, classy clothes and all washed down with real home-made vintage tea and cakes ! Entry is by donation and proceeds go to Strathcarron Hospice. 11-4pm. Tryst Craft Fair Dobbie Hall Larbert 10-4pm.

Saturday 9th November Justin and the Knights of Valour (PG) Bo’ness Hippodrome 11am. Festival of Social Science: The Games People Play, build or explore, cooperate or fight, negotiate or trade.You will get the chance to do all this and more while trying out a wide range of exciting board games. The games will be suitable for beginners and experienced gamers alike. Come on your own, with friends or as a family (ages 8 to adult – under

K dsP ayK Creating fun, organised, happy homes

com

Saturday 9th and Sunday 10th November Planes (U) Macrobert 11am. Sunday 10th November Justin and the Knights of Valour (PG) Bo’ness Hippodrome 2.30pm. Autism friendly screening. The Jack and Jill Market – Falkirk 10.30am - 1pm. 40 stalls of quality, nearly-new baby & kids clothes, cots, toys, buggies, bikes, and all the rest (0-9 yrs) Snap up great BARGAINS and save £££. Adults £1 Grangemouth Sports Complex, Abbots Road, FK3 8JB. To book a stall visit www.jackandjillmarket. co.uk Friday 15th November BBC Children in Need Night

(offer includes free entry to soft play)

08000 965 865

Enter c FMCS2 ode 0 for 10%13 discou nt!

theteam@KidsPlayKit.com KidsPlayKit Ltd, Roughton Rd, Kirkby on Bain Woodhall Spa Lincs LN10 6YL oﬀer ends 15/12/2013

Friday 15th to Sunday 17th November Hopetoun Christmas Shopping Fair With over 60 stalls selling a wide range of unusual and quality Christmas gifts. www.hopetoun. co.uk Saturday 16th November Bo’ness Christmas Light Switch On at 4.00pm and Grangemouth

out & about

aturday 1st September

Christmas Lights Switch On at 5.00pm Provost Pat Reid and this year’s Fair Queen/Children’s Day Queen will switch on this year’s Christmas lights in Bo’ness and in Grangemouth. From about 2.00 onwards musical entertainment will be provided by the Big Bad Wolf Theatre Company and the Glee Club. Joining Provost Reid for the big switch on will be every youngster’s favourite character , Peppa Pig.

the annual switch on of the town centre festive illuminations. The entertainment starts at approx. 3.00pm and features festive music by the Singforth Community Choir,, the Big Bad Wolf Theatre Company and the Grangemouth Glee Club. Joining Provost Reid to switch on the lights this year will be a very special appearance by everyone’s favourites from the Ice Age movies – Sid and Scrat! You’ll also be able to see Sid and Scrat around the town centre from early afternoon.

heard it before. Part Grease, part Downton Abbey and a whole lot of fun! Phone 01786 466666 for tickets and information or book online at www.macrobert.org Thursday 28th November Christmas celebration and shopping extravaganza in Dunblane High Street 5-9pm. See Santa and his reindeer as they parade through the high street to Santa’s grotto. The shops will all be open with loads of great Christmas offers. Great family fun with live music. www.discoverdunblane. co.uk Friday 29th November

Saturday 23rd November The Secret Garden (U) Bo’ness Hippodrome 11am. Christmas Craft Fair at the Dunblane Centre 11-4pm. 60 stalls for that Christmas shopping with beautiful gifts and presents for the festive season. SANTA will be there with lovely gifts for every ‘good’ boy and girl. Mince pies, hot drinks and festive music to get you in the mood for the big day For information phone 01786 824224 Saturday 16th and Sunday 17th November Justin and the Knights of Valour (PG) Macrobert 11am. Saturday 16th 23rd 30th November and 7th 14th 21st and 28th December Christmas Lantern Hunt at Callendar House FREE Follow the trail of Christmas lanterns hidden

Turbo (U) Bo’ness Hippodrome 11am. Kippen Toddlers and Playgroup Christmas Market Kippen Town Hall 1-4pm. Local stalls including jewellery, wreaths, cards, home baking, gifts and local produce as well as Santa in his grotto. Adults £3 Children £1 (includes tea and cake) Saturday 23rd and Sunday 24th November Justin and the Knights of Valour (PG) Macrobert 11am. Sunday 24th November The Jack and Jill Market – Livingston 10.30am - 1pm. 40 stalls of quality, nearly-new baby & kids clothes, cots, toys, buggies, bikes, and all the rest (0-9 yrs) Snap up great BARGAINS and save £££. Adults £1West Lothian College EH54 7EP. To book a stall visit www.jackandjillmarket.co.uk Tuesday 26th to Saturday 30th November

around Callendar House. Saturday 16th November to 21st December The Victorian Kitchen at Christmas, Callendar House. Sample life below stairs and find out how the Victorians prepared for the Christmas festivities. FREE Sunday 17th November Christmas Lights Switch on at the Steeple in Falkirk High Street Join Provost Pat Reid for

Larbert Amateur Dramatics society present Mother Goose at the Dobbie Hall in Larbert. Tickets available from The Steeple Box office on 01324 506850. Wednesday 27th November to Sunday 5th January Beauty and The Beast at the Macrobert Written, Directed By & Starring Johnny McKnight . Once Upon A Time in a far, far, faraway land - further than even Falkirklived a handsome young Prince and a beautiful young girl named Belle. The greatest love story in the pantosphere as you’ve never

families central scotland / issue 19

The Beaconhurst Duathlon (running and cycling race) for youngsters aged 8 and above takes place at Stirling University. For more information contact the school 01786 832146. www. beaconhurst.com Friday 29th and Saturday 30th November Festive Craft Market at the Howgate shopping centre Saturday 30th November Festive Event in Denny Town Centre Take time out of your busy pre-Christmas schedule to pop into Denny town centre to see this year’s visit by Santa and his herd of reindeer between 12 noon and 2pm. Bring the family to join in the festive fun with Provost Reid and singers every youngster’s favourite character – Peppa Pig . Musical entertainment will be provided by the Forth Bridges Accordion Band, the Big Bad Wolf Theatre Group and the Denny Primary School carol singers. Christmas Lights switch on and Santa and his reindeer in Stenhousemuir Join Santa and the Aviemore Reindeer in Stenhousemuir from approximately 3 – 5pm in the precinct. Musical entertainment will be provided by the Forth Bridges Accordion Band, the Falkirk Children’s and Youth Theatre, the Big Bad Wolf Theatre Company, Stenhousemuir Primary School carollers and the local Glee Club. Join Provost Reid and Peppa Pig for the switch on of this year’s Christmas lights at 5pm. Christmas Explored hosted by Tryst Community Church An interactive Nativity presentation re-creating the ambiance of the first Christmas in Bethlehem. Members of the local community will be dressed in period costumes; you’ll get a chance to see real farm

animals in their special penned area. Meet Mary and Joseph, the Wise Men, the Shepherds and sign the Nativity Census. Please take some time out from the hustle and bustle of the modern Christmas and discover the real meaning of the birth of Jesus Christ. All welcome. Starts at 1.00pm

Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs 2 Bo’ness Hippodrome 11am. PTA Christmas Fayre at Beaconhurst School, Bridge of Allan. All are welcome to come along and enjoy the festive fun with a variety of stalls plus games for children. 11am-2pm. www.beaconhurst.com Decorate the Tree at Bonnybridge Library 12noon. Saturday 30th November, 7th and 14th December Arts and Crafts making Snowman Spoon at Callendar House FREE The sessions run in the afternoon and should take approximately 15 minutes (all children must be accompanied by an adult) and be prepared to get covered in glitter! 2-4pm FREE suitable for ages 3-12. Saturday 30th November and Sunday 1st December Santa Train at Bo’ness Steam Railway Santa travels by Steam Train, giving a gift to each of the young passengers. See www. bkrailway.co.uk for details.

Celebrating St Andrew’s day at The Wallace Monument FREE admission to all visitors over the weekend. Sunday 1st December Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs 2 Autism friendly screening Bo’ness Hippodrome 2.30pm.

Accessible Shopping Day The annual Christmas Shopping Day in Falkirk with the emphasis on our elderly and disabled customers. Central Shopmobility based in Callendar Square Shopping Centre will be open specially to provide wheelchairs and personal shoppers if requested. Special transport arrangements have been made. To register and for full details, please call Falkirk Council’s Equal Opportunities team on 01324 506102. The Jack and Jill Market – Falkirk 10.30am - 1pm. 40 stalls of quality, nearly-new baby & kids clothes, cots, toys, buggies, bikes, and all the rest (0-9 yrs) Snap up great Bargains. Adults £1 Grangemouth Sports Complex, Abbots Road, FK3 8JB. To book a stall visit www. jackandjillmarket.co.uk Dunblane Craft Market Victoria Halls 11-4pm. Dobbies Little Seedlings club Christmas Party Phone 01786 458860 Sunday 1st December (14.30pm) and Monday 2nd December (4.30-8.30pm) Christmas Fair at Alloa Tower Come see the tower decorated for Christmas, festive stalls including soaps, candles, jewellery, hampers and much more. Carol singing and face painting for the children. Adults £3 Children £2 free mulled wine and mince pie. 01259 211701. Sunday 1st, 8th, and 15th December Re:Action Drama present “Tales from the house” Callendar House has a long and varied history, which has inspired youth drama group Re:Action over the past few months. This promenade performance, by members of the group, guides you through the house (literally, from room to room) and brings its history to life! Tickets 01324 506850. Monday 2nd December Decorate the tree at Bo’ness Library FREE 5pm. Decorate the tree at Falkirk Library FREE 6-7pm. Tuesday 3rd December Christmas Shopping Fayre at Stirling Castle Set in the stunning Great Hall with its roaring log fire and festive music, the annual shopping fayre offers a unique mix of suppliers and inspiring gift ideas. Entry costs £5 and includes free on-

out & about

site parking. Children under 16 go free but must be accompanied by an adult. Tickets are available from Stirling Castle Tuesday 3rd to Saturday 7th December Sleeping Beauty at the Dunblane Centre. Traditional panto fun. For tickets phone 01786 824224.

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.

Tuesday 3rd to Sunday 29th December The Little Boy that Santa Claus Forgot at the Macrobert Johnny hates Christmas. The presents, the tree, Brussels sprouts.Yuck! The problem is that Johnny lives next door to Mr McGregor. Mr McGregor loves Christmas. An adventure story for 3-6 year olds about gifts, friendship and eating your vegetables. For tickets phone 01786 466666.

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

Friday 6th December Christmas memorial Service organsied by Forth Valley Sands 7.30pm St Marys Church, Upper Bridge Street. For more information contact Caroline on 07948 562321 or www. forthvalleysands.org.uk Festive Farmers Market Falkirk High Street 11-4pm. The very finest in fabulous goodies brought straight from the countryside to Falkirk by some of the country’s leading producers. Produce perfect for festive consumption including: mouth-watering beef, pork and venison, sensational seafood, dairy, organic and gluten free produce, vegetables, plus a range of locally made crafts. www.falkirkdelivers. com Friday 6th to Saturday 14th December Falkirk Youth Theatre presents Jack and the Beanstalk at the Falkirk Town Hall Featuring giants, beanstalks, laughter, songs and dancing (plus a few madcap characters) this year’s pantomime will make this Christmas magical, festive and fun! For tickets phone 01324 506850.

out & about

Saturday 1st September

Saturday 7th December

The annual visit to Bo’ness and Grangemouth by Santa and his herd of Reindeer See the reindeer parade walk around the town centre along with the Forth Bridges Accordion Band 10pm and 12noon in Grangemouth. 2.00pm – 4.00pm in Bo’ness. Under the trees Natural Christmas crafts Outdoor natural craft session using natural objects to create Christmas gifts and decorations. Meet at Callendar park £3. Booking essential. Contact Jess on jess@underthetrees.co.uk or phone 07854 490550. 1.30-

Festive Toy Trail at Mugdock Country Park Organised by Wild at nature. Booking essential. £5 per child. 0141 956610.

Sunday 8th December Santa and his reindeer in Falkirk Watch the sensational Aviemore Reindeer walk up the High Street at 2pm from the bandstand to Lint Riggs and back again to Callendar Square where they will be penned until 4pm. A great opportunity for children to meet and chat with Santa right beside his own herd of reindeer. Christmas Country Craft Fair at Briarlands Farm Various stalls selling great gift ideas for Christmas. For details phone 01786 841309.

3.30pm. Festive Craft Session at Larbert Library FREE fun and festive. 10.30-11.30am.

along to our fun, free and friendly Christmas craft session for 5 – 12 year olds where we get creative and crafty. FREE Suitable for ages 5-12. 01324 503295. Christmas crafts at Meadowbank Library Free fun festive session, suitable for ages 5-11, 11-12noon. Festive Craft Session at Falkirk Library FREE fun and festive. 1112noon. Lantern Workshop and Parade at Jupiter Urban Wildlife Centre, Grangemouth A chance to celebrate mid winter by constructing some willow and tissue paper lanterns and then a twilight walk at 4pm. 10-5pm. Children must be accompanied. Booking essential phone the ranger at 01324 486475 or jupiterranger@swt.org.uk Santa’s Super Sleigh Parade at Falkirk Town Hall From the Bandstand up the High Street and back from 3.30pm The rousing finale to this year’s town centre festive events featuring the Q20 Theatre Group’s Super Sleigh. Santa will be joined by Frosty the Snowman, the stilt walking Christmas Trees, Rudolph and the Christmas Elves.

Festive Craft Session at Bo’ness Library FREE fun and festive. 11-12 noon. Howie’s Kids Club at the Howgate shopping Centre Join the Song & Dance Factory Christmas Show. Morning show with Peppa Pig & Iggle Piggle and an afternoon show with Buzz & Woody. FREE Register your place at www.intohowgate.co.uk Santa Dash in aid of Strathcarron Hospice Callendar Park, There will be a 5k route for runners and a 2k route suitable for families and buggies etc. www. strathcarronhospice.org/ forthcomingevents Festive Craft Fair at Springkerse View Stirling 12-5pm. www. springkerseview.co.uk Pirate Pete in Alloa Town Centre see www.facebook.com/ AlloaTownCentre for details. Tryst Craft Fair Dobbie Hall Larbert 10-4pm. Saturday 7th and Sunday 8th December Santa Train at Bo’ness Steam Railway Santa travels by Steam Train, giving a gift to each of the young passengers. See www. bkrailway.co.uk for details.

Tuesday 10th to Sunday 22nd December Innocence at the Macrobert A unique playroom performance, Innocence invites 0-3 year olds (and their adults), to explore the world of William Blake’s imagination. Together with Scottish Dance Theatre’s captivating dancers, join us on a magical theatrical journey full of song, dance and play with live music by Paul Bradley. Innocence is a wonderful dance experience for young ones, their families and friends this Christmas. Phone 01786 466666 for tickets. Thursday 12th December Beaconhurst School presents its Carol Concert performed by the School Choir at Dunblane Cathedral. 7.30pm. Contact the School on 01786 832146 for tickets or more information. www.beaconhurst.com Saturday 14th December Christmas Craft session at Bonnybridge library Come

families central scotland / issue 19

Bridge of Allan Primary School Christmas Fair Festive fun including a Santa in his grotto, fantastic raffle, tombola, toy, book and gift stalls, home baking and competitions. Entry is £1.50 for adults which includes tea or coffee and a mince pie. (FREE for children) Christmas Crafts family Workshop at Hopetoun House Come along for a day of family fun, making various Christmas decorations. Materials will be provided, most from the grounds themselves. Mince pies, refreshments and Christmas music will also be provided. 10.30am to 12pm £5 Booking essential.

Festive Toy Trail at Mugdock Country Park Organised by Wild at nature. Booking essential. £5 per child. 0141 956 6100 Sunday 15th December Wee Boppers Jingle Bell Baby Christmas Disco Come and meet Santa at Beancross Restaurant. With Christmas music, singalong with Kirsty Dewart, dance and face painting for ages 0-8. Book your tickets at www. weeboppersdiscos.co.uk 2-4pm. Family Christmas Magic Show at Beancross Restaurant, Polmont. For tickets and details see www. weeboppersdiscos.co.uk 6-8pm.

Christmas at Stirling Castle Join us in the spectacular setting of Stirling Castle for an afternoon of festive fun. Sing along with music from the Swinging Santas, join in with the Baron’s comedy capers and laugh along at the Christmas puppet show. 12.30-3.30 Events included in admission price. Tuesday 17th and Wednesday 18th December Choir Lunches at Springkerse View, Stirling see www.springkerseview.co.uk for details. Thursday 19th December Scottish Opera present Platypuss in Boots A festive adventure for 3 to 5 year olds. Tollbooth, Stirling.

Craft Fair at Grangemouth Town Hall 1-4pm. Saturday 21st December Saturday 14th and Sunday 15th December Santa Train at Bo’ness Steam Railway Santa travels by Steam Train, giving a gift to each of the young passengers. See www. bkrailway.co.uk for details.

Christmas crafts at Grangemouth Library Free fun festive session, suitable for ages 5-11, 10.3011.30am. Christmas crafts at Falkirk Library Free fun festive session, suitable for ages 5-11, 11-12noon.

Saturday 21st and Sunday 22nd December Santa Train at Bo’ness Steam Railway Santa travels by Steam Train, giving a gift to each of the young passengers. See www.bkrailway. co.uk for details.

out & about

Saturday 28th December Family Walk at Briarlands Farm, nr Stirling A traffic free walk around country lanes leaving from the farm. For details phone 01786 841309.

Christmas Is All Wrapped Up @ macrobert Starring, Written & Directed By Johnny McKnight

“Scotland’s King Of Panto” Lyn Gardner, Guardian

Saturday 21st to Monday 23rd December Ice Rink in Alloa Town Centre see www.facebook.com/ AlloaTownCentre for details.

Saturday 28th and Sunday 29th December Winter Diesel Gala at Bo’ness Steam Railway Relive the sights, sounds and smells of the Swinging Sixties at our Winter Diesel Gala. www.bkrailway.co.uk for details.

Beauty t s a e B e h & t 27 NOV 2013 - 5 JAN 2014

Sunday 22nd December A Bairns Christmas Concert at Falkirk Town Hall Falkirk Caledonia Choir, Falkirk Festival Chorus and Falkirk Tryst Orchestra present their annual Carol Concert. Carols old and new, carols for all to join in and orchestral pieces make up the programme. 2.30pm and 7pm. For tickets phone 01324 506850.

Sunday 29th December Family Film Day at Briarlands Farm, nr Stirling Family films screened in the Farmers Den. For details phone 01786 841309. Monday 30th and Tuesday 31st December

Family carol sing along at Briarlands Farm an afternoon of joyful festive tunes. For details phone 01786 841309. Monday 23rd December Christmas crafts at Meadowbank Library Free fun festive session. 2-3pm.

Friday 27th and Saturday 28th December The Singing Kettle presents Christmas Wishing Well at the Albert Halls Stirling Family sing-along and entertainment. Bring a Santa hat and a bucket for the well. For tickets phone 01786 274000.

Black Bun Specials at Bo’ness Steam Railway Complimentary traditional Scottish Hogmanay Black Bun and a hot drink whilst travelling aboard our nostalgic steam railway, juice and shortbread for the kids. www.bkrailway.co.uk for details. Sunday 5th January Family Walk at Briarlands Farm, nr Stirling A traffic free walk around country lanes leaving from the farm. For details phone 01786 841309.

TICKETS ON SALE NOW! macrobert Presents

Created by Gareth Nicholls & Oliver Emanuel

for ages 3-6

Families Central Scotland Magazine now on facebook. Visit us for regular what’s on updates. www.facebook.com/FamCS @familiescentral

01786 466666 / WWW.MACROBERT.ORG MACROBERT, UNIVERSITY OF STIRLING, FK9 4LA

Park and Ride IN STIRLING

Park and Ride buses taking you direct to the heart of Stirling this Christmas Our two Park and Ride sites offer free parking and provide a frequent and direct service to the city centre so why not let the bus take the traffic out of your festive season. An adult return is £1.20, a child return only 60p and under 5’s travel free!

Springkerse Line (temporary route until 25 January 2014) Springkerse • Kerse Road • Stirling Bus Station • Kerse Road • Morrison’s Store • Springkerse Mon-Fri every 12 mins 7.30am – 6.30 pm, Thurs 7.30am – 8.16pm, Sat every 15 mins 7.30am – 6.28pm Springkerse P&R will operate on Sundays 1st, 8th, 15th & 22nd December from 10am - 6pm

Castleview Circular Castleview • Castle Business Park • Lower Bridge Street • Viewfield Place • Murray Place • King Street • St John Street • Broad Street • Corn Exchange Road • Dumbarton Road • Castleview 7.30am - 6.12pm (departing King Street)

Over Christmas both sites will be closed 25th & 26th December and 1st & 2nd January. For full information on the Park & Ride Service visit www.stirling.gov.uk

A MAMMOTH CHRISTMAS

FESTIVE MUSIC & FUN FALKIRK CHRISTMAS FOR ALL THE FAMILY LIGHTS SWITCH ON COME AND SEE SID AND SCRAT FROM

SUNDAY 17TH NOVEMBER 3.00 - 5.00PM THE STEEPLE IN FALKIRK HIGH STREET

Come and join Provost Pat Reid as he switch’s on the towns Christmas lights; Ice Age favourites Sid & Scrat will be there too! Entertainment will be from 3.00pm by The Sing Forth Community Choir, Big Bad Wolf Theatre Company and The Grangemouth Glee Club. You’ll also be able to see Sid & Scrat in the town centre at intervals throughout the day, before the lights go on.

SANTA AND REINDEER PARADE SUNDAY 8TH DECEMBER 2PM - 4PM EAST END FALKIRK HIGH STREET

Watch the sensational Aviemore Reindeer as they visit the High Street at 2pm, pulling Santa and his sleigh from the bandstand to Lint Riggs and back again. They will then rest at Callendar Square where they will be penned until 4pm. A great opportunity for children to meet and chat with Santa right beside his own herd of reindeer. Don’t forget your camera!

Don’tt forge your camera

SANTA’S SUPER SLEIGH PARADE

SATURDAY 14TH DECEMBER 3.30PM FROM THE BANDSTAND UP THE HIGH STREET & BACK The rousing finale to this year’s town centre Christmas events, featuring the fabulous Q20 Theatre Group’s Super Sleigh. Santa will be joined by a host of festive characters which will thrill and delight all the family. Wrap up warm and wear your best Santa hat!

MERRY CHRISTMAS e!

Everyon

VISIT FALKIRKDELIVERS.COM FOR FURTHER DETAILS

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