Families Central Scotland Nov - Dec 2014

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

FREE Issue 25 Nov/Dec 2014

In this Issue

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

WIN a copy of Horace the Haggis and Christmas Mystery Reader offer from Edenmill Farm, With every Christmas tree bought, get FREE wreath or FREE delivery or £10 voucher for farm shop.

Falkirk’s newurs! fantastic flavo Now serving fresh homemade soup, Scottish stovies and innovative ice cream flavours every day from 10am until 5pm.

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

www.familiescentralscotland.co.uk

editor@familiescentralscotland.co.uk

079302 64979

Discover yourself at Beaconhurst Nursery Award Winning Nursery for 3-5 year olds Your children can discover...

Cycling skills, Foreign Languages, Daily Outdoor Learning, Dangerous Dave Explorer Club, Music & Drama, Friendships, Lots of trips and adventures Provide an exceptional start to your child’s education and

www.beaconhurst.com

FESTIVE FAMILY FUN FALKIRK CHRISTMAS

LIGHTS SWITCH ON © P&Co Ltd/SC 2014 Licensed on behalf of Studiocanal S.A. by Copyrights Group

Come and see Paddington

SUNDAY 16TH NOVEMBER 3.00 - 5.00PM THE STEEPLE IN FALKIRK HIGH STREET Come and join Provost Pat Reid as he switches on the town’s Christmas lights; with a special appearance from Paddington Bear! Family entertainment will be from 3pm. An early visit from Santa plus look out for Paddington appearing at intervals in town!

SANTA AND REINDEER PARADE SATURDAY 13TH DECEMBER 2PM - 4PM EAST END FALKIRK HIGH STREET TO TRINITY CHURCH

Don’tt forge your a camer

Watch the magnificent Aviemore Reindeer as they visit the High Street at 2pm, pulling Santa and his sleigh from the bandstand to Lint Riggs and then resting at the Trinity Church until 4pm. A great opportunity for children to meet and chat with Santa right beside his own herd of reindeer. Last minute presents to buy, shop around at the Christmas Market in the church grounds from 12pm to 4pm.

MERRY CHRISTMAS

Everyone!

VISIT FALKIRKDELIVERS.COM FOR FURTHER DETAILS

B RO U G H T TO YO U BY

contents Central Scotland’s

really useful magazine

for busy families of

children age 0-12

FREE

Issue 25 Nov/Dec 2014

In this Issue

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

Hello and welcome to our November/December issue of Families Central Scotland Magazine. This issue is packed with all things Christmas and festive.

From our fabulous gift guide, to our ‘where to find Santa’ article and great Christmas shows and events, there is something for everyone this Christmas. We have a lovely article about tips to help avoid those toddler tantrums when the excitement of Christmas gets too much, as well as our usual parent to parent interview, local news/views and handy out and about guide to events for all the family in November and December. Have a lovely Christmas.

WIN a copy of Horace the Haggis and Christmas Mystery

Reader offer from Edenmill Farm, With every Christmas tree bought, get FREE wreath or FREE delivery or £10 voucher for farm shop.

Local news and views..................................................4-7 Christmas gift guide.......................................................8-9

Falkirk’s new fantastic flavours!

Now serving fresh homemade soup, Scottish stovies and innovative ice cream flavours every day from 10am until 5pm.

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

www.familiescentralscotlan

d.co.uk

editor@familiescentralscot

land.co.uk

079302 64979

Fiona & Louise the editors

Parent to parent................................................................10 Tips for a stress free Christmas................................11 Where to find Santa.......................................................12

READER OFFERS Buy a Christmas tree from Edenmill Farm and get a free undecorated Christmas wreath or free delivery or £10 to spend in the farm shop.....Page 12

Christmas shows and events......................................13

WIN a copy of Horace the Haggis and the Christmas Mystery.....Page 8

Out and about........................................................... 14-15

contact us Check out our website at www.familiescentralscotland.co.uk where you will find more articles, our on line directory and what’s on guide.

Follow and ‘like us’ on facebook at www.facebook.com/FamCS and on twitter @familiescentral where you will get regular updates of local events for you and your kids. If you are interested in advertising with us we are now taking bookings for our January/February issue which will be our parties feature. Deadline for copy and adverts is 1st December so email us at editor@familiescentralscotland.co.uk for our media pack.

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 McKendrick of Lamb Designs

Printers

- J Thomson Colour Printers

Families Central Scotland is part of a larger group of magazines headed

by Families SW London who are celebrating 20 years of publishing. All Franchised magazines are operated under licence. We take every care preparing this magazine but the publishers and distributors cannot be held responsible for the claims of advertisers nor for the accuracy of the contents nor for any consequences. Any original materials are sent at the owners own risk and while every care is taken neither families nor its agents accept liability for loss or damage.

Unique merchandise inChristmas our Callendar House gift shop Seasonal Screenings | Arts and Crafts sessions | Christmas Fairs...

Visit us online at www.falkirkcommunitytrust.org for more details @fctrust Falkirk Community Trust gratefully acknowledges the support of Falkirk Council

Christmas Remembrance Service

A Christmas remembrance service for families who have experienced the death of a baby is being held in Stirling.

The service will take place in St Mary’s Church, Upper Bridge Street, FK8 1ES on Friday 5th December at 7.30pm.

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 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.

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.

Jack and Jill Stirling markets

The Jack & Jill Nearly New and Quality Kids Market has arrived in Stirling - just in time for Christmas! This fabulous not for profit community interest organisation holds markets throughout Scotland and offers families the opportunity to make and save money while being committed to recycling.

Mums can come along on market day and expect an organised and fun children’s market where they can find hundreds of items at bargain prices (toys, clothes, cots, prams, car seats and lots more!) The Jack & Jill Market helps mums provide for their families whilst saving money! The Stirling Jack & Jill Market will be held on a monthly basis at St Modans High School, and if you can’t wait for the next Market then you can always visit the Jack & Jill online Market.

November Market Date – Saturday 8th November December Market Date - Saturday 6th December www.jackandjillmarket.co.uk

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families central scotland / issue 25

Something new for parents and grandparents!

The Cardboard box play cafe is now running two new weekly drop-in groups!

Monday 10am-12pm Mums and Tots (0-18 months) Tuesday 10am-12pm Grandparents and Tots group (0- pre-school) These groups provide an opportunity to bond with your children through music, play (including messy play!) stories and craft activities whilst meeting others for a chat! £3.50 per child (£1 for any additional children) - includes all activities, a healthy snack for children and a hot drink and biscuit for adults. Please see our Facebook page for more details or visit our website www.cardboardboxplaycafe.co.uk

Festive fun for all the family

If you are looking for the best festive experience for all the family this Christmas, look no further than Edenmill Farm. Only 45 minutes from Stirling and open 7 days a week from 1st December, they have Christmas all wrapped up for you. Adults can enjoy some mulled wine whilst choosing their own freshly cut, home grown Christmas tree, sample some mouth-watering festive fayre and pick up everything you will need for “the big festive feast.” Children can visit Santa in his Grotto, have fun on the hay bales in the play area, and meet Santa’s Reindeer and other friendly farm animals! Edenmill Farm, Blanefield, Glasgow, G63 9AX

Christmas lights switch on near you Stirling Town Centre - Sunday 16th November - Entertainment from 12noon with Santa parade through town switch on at 5.00pm Falkirk Town Centre - Sunday 16th November - Entertainment from 3pm with family fun and music. Switch on at 5.00pm Grangemouth Town Centre - Saturday 15th November - Family entertainment from 2pm, switch on at 5.00pm Bo’ness Town Centre - Saturday 15th November - Family entertainment from 2pm, switch on at 4.00pm Stenhousemuir Town Centre - Saturday 29th November - Family entertainment from 2pm, switch on at 5.00pm

Stirling Rock School ready to roll

Stirling Rock School has opened its doors to the public. Owned by multiinstrumentalist, singer-songwriter, producer and Runrig keyboard player Brian Hurren, the school offers specialist tuition in keyboard, piano, guitar and drums from ages 3+. Brian has toured internationally and performed extensively as keyboard player and singer with Scottish Celtic Rock Legends Runrig for the past 12 years.

The school is open Monday-Saturday and offers Classes, One to One, Group Learning and bespoke tuition packages. Based in Springkerse at Stageworx School of Performing Arts, the school is easily accessed from both central Stirling and the motorway. We also run Music Monsters classes for ages 3-5 every Saturday from 12pm.

A fun introduction to music for little monsters aged between 3yrs – 6yrs.

macrobert presents

A brand new panto written by Johnny McKnight

GET READY TO CHEER, BOO-GIE AND HISS YOUR WAY THROUGH ANOTHER CHRISTMAS SPECTACULAR AT MACROBERT!

WED 26 NOV - SUN 4 JAN ROM TS F 0 – E K TIC 2.5 T £1 JUS C!

I

MAG

We offer a free trial to everyone wishing to find out more about what we offer.Contact us on 01786 448 417 or email : info@ stirlingrockschool.co.uk

Looking for something new, fun AND educational ?

At Bricks 4 Kidz® we believe that children learn best through activities that engage their curiosity and creativity. Our classes provide an extraordinary atmosphere for children where we learn, we build, we play…using LEGO bricks®.

Programmes are built around our proprietary model plans and designed by engineers and architects. Our specially designed project kits and themebased models provide the building blocks for the Bricks 4 Kidz approach to educational play.

Now in Central Scotland, we offer activities for children aged 3 -13+ including breakfast / after-school clubs, pre-school classes, school holiday camps, birthday parties, Bricks 4 Dadz and much more. Visit our website for more information at www. bricks4kidz.co.uk/central-scotland or find us on facebook.

Christmas is all wrapped up at macrobert great live entertainment for everyone aged 0-100!

Frozen Charlotte and macrobert

Too Many Penguins?

Illustration: Katy Wilson

For ages 3-6

Tue 2 - Sun 28 Dec (Not Mondays) Times vary T I C K E T S

O N

S A L E

N O W !

macrobert & Barrowland Ballet Presents

For ages 0-3

Sat 6 - Sun 21 Dec (Not Mondays) Times vary T I C K E T S Contact Gail 01259 211218 forthvalley@stepaheadtuition.com

O N

S A L E

N O W !

MACROBERT, UNIVERSITY OF STIRLING, FK9 4LA

01786 466666 | WWW.MACROBERT.ORG 5

Shop locally this Christmas and give more than just presents...

Christmas is upon us once again, and unless you are amazingly prepared and have bought all your presents already, there’s shopping to be done! The big retailers have been bombarding us for weeks, and you can rarely walk down the street or switch on the television without seeing adverts for this year’s Christmas must-haves. But what about the small, local, independent retailers? The businesses which are owned and run by local residents, often parents who are trying to feed, clothe and support their own families. Small businesses easily get ‘lost’ in the hubbub of Christmas, when really it’s a time of the year when we should be using them just as much, if not more, than usual.

Small Business Saturday UK is a grassroots, non-political, non-commercial campaign, which highlights small business success and encourages consumers to ‘shop local’ and support small businesses in their communities. The day itself takes place on the first shopping Saturday in December each year, but the campaign aims to have a lasting impact on small businesses. In 2014 Small Business Saturday UK will take place on Saturday December 6th.

by Sal Jefford

Will you shop local this Christmas?

Shopping locally gives you: Handmade goods – made by local craftspeople, these are often one-of-a-kind items that you won’t find in the big retailers.

In-depth product knowledge and advice – small business owners often have a better knowledge of the lines they stock, for example which clothing brands ‘run large’ and which are true to size, or which shoes offer the best fit for narrow feet.

Customer service – love the item but don’t like the colour? Independent retailers are often happy to order in products in other colours or sizes for you, and they usually deal with any complaints or problems in a far friendlier way than bigger businesses do.

A more enjoyable shopping experience – local business owners frequently like to take the time to chat and get to know their customers, which makes for a far nicer experience Stronger community ties – shopping locally helps to create town centres which are more sustainable and vibrant, meaning people feel part of the community. Local businesses are also often more willing than larger chains are to support local causes that have more meaning to them, and the area in which they live and work.

Little Stars Stirling, Falkirk and Alloa

Little Stars nursery at Craigforth in Stirling (just off jct10 on the M9) is set in 20 acres of parklands, fields and forests, this amazing location allows the children to enjoy and benefit from this unique environment. The children have an outdoor day once a week when they spend the whole day outside (come rain or shine) at their base camp or various camps within the grounds. This amazing opportunity to climb trees, forage and play, gives our children confidence and knowledge that will last a lifetime.

This close involvement with nature and the children’s hard work on protecting the environment has earned the nursery its first ever Green Flag.

Little Stars has been looking after children from the age of 6 weeks up to 5 years for nearly 10 years, with parents working for Prudential, Capita, FES and tenants of Castle Business Park all enjoying the benefits of a nursery near their workplace and convenient for drop off and collection.

Recently awarded partnership with Stirling Council the nursery can now provide pre-school funding for all 3-5 year olds. Tel 01786 445552 or visit our website www. littlestarsnurseries.net for more information.

6

families central scotland / issue 25

Hartbeeps – musical classes for your baby, toddler and pre school child At Hartbeeps we put your child at the heart of our magical musical adventure.

We offer original and super fun developmental classes from birth to 5 years and fabulous children’s parties.

All of our classes are set to a sound track of original songs, remixed nursery rhymes and lullabies. We take you and your little one on a sound journey and bring the story to life.

Come and experience the amazing world of Hartbeeps with classes to compliment and enhance every stage of your child’s early years – from birth to school. We can’t wait to welcome you to our award-winning classes. Contact Lynsey for further details.

Magic Sprinkles xx email Lynsey on Lynsey@hartbeeps.com phone on 07914023928 or visit www.hartbeeps.com

The largest and still the best network of performing arts schools in the world.

Nurturing and developing young people’s potential through dance, drama and singing. for 4-18 year olds, after school, at weekends and holiday workshops.

Little Stars Stirling is now in partnership with Stirling Council for pre-school funding and now taking bookings for the new term.

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

Where the stars of the future shine!

STAGECOACH STIRLING Enrolling now for JANUARY 2015

www.littlestarsnurseries.net STIRLING

Craigforth House, c/o Prudential Craigforth, Stirling FK9 4UE 01786 445552.

Also at ALLOA and FALKIRK see website for detail.

Arnhall Nursery is a private day nursery that provides high quality childcare from birth up to 5 years • Graded Excellent in 7 areas by SCSWIS 2014 • Set in beautiful surroundings near Dunblane with ample parking • Open all year round from 7.30am to 6.30pm • 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

Babies to 5 years Pre Schoo l

Fund Avail ing able

Christmas gift guide Special Christmas treats for mums to be and little ones at Stirling Pram

I

t’s our first Christmas here at the new Stirling Pram and we are super excited!

As the largest independent nursery store in the area we love to source beautiful products for your little ones and Christmas time is no exception. With a dedicated interiors and furniture department in our top floor showroom and a new gift and toys department on the ground floor to compliment the existing pram department.

•

Sophie la giraffe baby,

•

BabyArt, give a unique gift that

the most gorgeous baby skincare range. Certified natural and organic these make a delicious gift for baby and smell nice on mums too! (Prices start from £10.99).

families can create together! Don’t fancy doing it yourself? Then you can buy gift vouchers for the beautiful Lasting Memories castings. (Prices start from £10).

Our favourite five for Christmas: •

•

Silver Cross dolls pram, the ultimate little girl’s gift. This year sees two beautiful special editions added to the collection.

(Prices start from £300).

•

My first Christmas stocking fillers, no need to travel to Glasgow for your mamas and papas delights we have the full range here

Rocking horses, from

little toddler horses that neigh to the stunning collection from MJ Marks.

(Prices start from £50).

in Stirling.

From Santa stockings, snow globes and Christmas baubles to little gift baskets of romper suits and Christmas soft toys.

(Prices start from £5).

Stirling Pram is - all things baby - so come and visit us this Christmas for something different to pop under the Christmas tree or even on it!

We are open Monday to Saturday 10am to 5pm and Sundays 12pm to 5pm, down by the Riverside in Stirling. Stirling Pram, 42-44 Forth Street, Stirling, FK8 1UF 01786 472392 www.stirlingpramcentre.co.uk

Horace the Haggis and the Christmas Mystery

H

orace the Haggis gets a terrible shock when he visits his friends on Christmas Eve. Every one of them has vanished.

Worse, pinned to each house is a note with the single letter V—the personal sign of the most feared gangster in Acre Valley. What has happened to his friends? Can Horace and Major Mole find them in time? And what if the dreaded Don Volio should discover our loveable hero in the Darkling Forest with only his hair-gel for a weapon?

Third in the popular series created by BBC broadcaster and journalist Sally Magnusson and illustrated by her husband TV director Norman Stone, Horace the Haggis is a loveable Scottish children’s book character with a timeless quality and a modern twist, this is an adventure for the whole family.

WIN a copy of Horace the Haggis by Sally Magnusson – we have 3 copies to give away - simply email editor@familiescentralscotland.co.uk put Horace the Haggis in the subject line and give us your name and address for your chance to win a copy! Closing date Friday 5th December.

FRIENDS

AFTER-SCHOOL & BREAKFAST CLUBS PRE-SCHOOL CLASSES SCHOOL HOLIDAY CLUBS BIRTHDAY PARTIES & MORE

engineering

playful

TECHNOLOGY

Exciting Interactive & Fun The most original musical baby & toddler classes on the planet

Classes held in Falkirk and Stirling Please contact Lynsey T: 07914023928 E: lynsey@hartbeeps.com Facebook: hartbeepsfalkirk

playful

07594 062687

rmaitland@bricks4kidz.com

Register at: www.bricks4kidz.co.uk/central-scotland/ 8

Twitter: HartBeepsFalk

families central scotland / issue 25

www.hartbeeps.com

Little touches make the difference at Toy Hub Our top toys this Christmas are:

A

t your local family run toy shop ‘Toy Hub’ we work hard to help you make sure that you can have the perfect family Christmas. It’s the little touches that make all the difference with free click & collect on our website www.toyhubdirect. co.uk , removing the price tags when you buy your gifts and of course expert advice to make sure you select the perfect gift for the special child in your family. From LEGO to Playmobil, Barbie to Monster High, Minecraft to Frozen and of course all the best games to entertain your family throughout the festive season.

1. Frozen Elsa Musical Snow Wand £15 2. LEGO Minecraft 21116 Crafting Box £50 3. Barbie Sparkle Studio £25 4. Playmobil 5208 Take Along Fairyland £30 5. Pass the Bomb £20 6. Hexbugs Strandbeast £25 7. Little Live Pets Birds & Butterflies from £10 8. Spy Net Ultra Tough Video Recon Bot £60 9. Bounce Off £15 10. LEGO 70816 Benny’s Spaceship, Spaceship, SPACESHIP £80

Christmas gift guide Top stocking fillers 1. Create your Minimoomi Colouring Book £5.50 2. Lil’ Zelfs £2.50 3. Trash Pack Rotten Eggs £2.50 4. Dobble £13 5. Frozen Anna & Elsa Tiara & Jewellery Set £7.50 each 6. LEGO Mixels £3 7. Loom Bands from £2 8. The Original Chocolate Machine Money Box £8 9. Minecraft Hangers £5 10. V-tech Toot Toot Animals £7 Shop in our Dunblane High Street Store 7 days a week throughout November & December or 24/7 on our website www. toyhubdirect.co.uk You can also keep up to date with the latest news on Facebook www.facebook.com/toyhubdirect or Twitter www.twitter.com/toyhubdirect

The Wrapper – great stocking filler or present for the teacher

School packed lunches are traditionally wrapped up in cling film, tin foil or plastic bags, which just ends up in the bin and land fill sites. Now you can do your bit for the environment, and have a great sandwich bag. The Wrapper has a plastic side for keeping food fresh in and a colourful fabric outer. You simply place the sandwich in the middle of the Wrapper, fold it over the food and seal with the handy velcro strip. This keeps the food fresh inside and then, when needed cleverly unfolds into a plate.

With so many colourful materials to choose from, they are perfect for toddler, school packed lunches, at the office or out in the countryside. It also makes the ideal present for your teacher, or a party bag for children, to be filled with birthday cake and sweeties, or the perfect stocking filler for Christmas morning treats.

Come and see us at The Country Living Fair at the SECC on 20th -23rd November.

For more information about The Wrapper contact us at www.re-wrap-it.co.uk or phone 0141 954 4739.

parent to parent M

y name is Nicola Beveridge and I live with my husband Graeme and our 2 year old daughter Ellis. I run Daisy Baby classes within Bridge of Allan, Bannockburn and Kincardine. Daisy Baby classes range from 6weeks old to 5years old. Tinies Baby Massage is for our tiny babies (6weeks to 5/6months), Wrigglers Baby Yoga (4months to crawling) for those needing some more stimulation and enjoy being bounced around and then Movers Toddler Yoga for those little ones on the move until around 2.5years.

I can also run Daisy Tots in nurseries which is a 6 week imaginative yoga based programme for 3-5 year olds. Before baby has arrived mums to be are welcome along to our weekly Daisy Birthing classes incorporating gentle movement, education and relaxation. It’s a unique and friendly active birth antenatal class, so please get in touch to find out more info!

Phone me on 07815 516528 or email at nicola-beveridge@lazydaisybirthing.co.uk Why you like living where you do We live in the Alloa Park area. It’s quiet and child friendly and luckily we have a grassy area in front of our house that the children can play on. I enjoyed staying close to the centre of Alloa when Ellis was a newborn as only a short walk away I could visit the supermarkets and local shops.

Favourite park Our closest park is the West End Park in Alloa so we are there lots! It has two play areas one for younger children and one for older children with lots of open space to play in as well. Ellis attends Kidzworld Nursery and they also often use this park.

Favourite children’s club/class We love attending our weekly Waterbabies class. We have taken Ellis since she was 4 months old and she is now on the toddler programme and still loving it. She did go through the Water Wobbles for a while but we continued going to classes and this stage soon passed!

We also love attending Inky Tots and recently had an Inky Tots birthday party.

Katie was fab, working with me to design

the type of party we wanted and created a Keepsake Tree with all the children’s handprints and adults thumbprints on it.

It’s a very special piece of artwork which looks great and proudly hangs up on our wall!

Favourite day out Blairdrummond Safari Park is our favourite day out! You can spend so much time there looking at all the animals, watching the sea lion show, visiting chimp island, playing in the huge park area and of course having lunch and snacks throughout the day. We like to take a packed lunch with us and love that there are BBQ facilities, however we haven’t quite managed to use them yet!

No parent should be without A black out blind! We bought ours from The Gro Company which sticks onto the window so you can take it with you wherever you stay.

Most embarrassing moment At our first Waterbabies class, I got mixed up and used a normal nappy instead of a swim nappy! Needless to say Ellis soon floated to the top of the water and we quickly had to change her into the correct nappy!

Funniest comment your kids have ever made Ellis often tells us to “wait one minute” with the actions to this as well. First time she said this it was very funny and she regularly uses this line now.

Most loved children’s book We read lots of books in our house, a couple of favourites are What The Ladybird Heard by Julia Donaldson. Ellis loves pointing to the glittery ladybird on each page. Some more favourites are Don’t Worry Hugless Douglas by David Melling and any Usborne That’s Not My....books

S T I R L I N G

ROCK SCHOOL Professional Tuition from one of Scotland’s Premier Rock Musicians

RUNRIG’S BRIAN HURREN Open Monday - Saturday (Ages 3+)

K E Y B O A R D | G U I T A R | D R U M S

E FR

ur L yo IA ok TR Bo E

10

Classes | One to One | Pre-School & Birthday Parties MUSIC

MONSTERS

Telephone:

StirlingRockSchool.co.uk 01786 448 417

www.

families central scotland / issue 25

Best children DVD or tele programme Ellis loves In The Night Garden and Something Special with Mr Tumble. We recently took Ellis to the In The Night Garden Live Show which we thoroughly recommend. Although she was a bit reserved during ‘meet the characters’ session she regularly speaks about the show and has told lots of people that she has “met Daisy and Piggle”. In the Night Garden is part of our night time routine and she knows that this is wind down time before bed.

Most played with toys Little Tykes Kitchen and Little Tykes Outdoor House and slide have been the most played with toys in our household. We got them when Ellis was just over 1 and we have had so much fun with them over the past year!

Nicola’s local recommendations

West End Park – Alloa Waterbabies Inky Tots Blairdrummond Safari Park In The Night Garden Live

Ten tips for a stress free christmas Ten tips for a stress free Christmas with toddlers

C

hristmas – a time of festive family fun and memory making, when it goes well that is, but for many parents of toddlers Christmas can be a time of stress, anxiety, exhaustion and arguments. From the everlasting lure of the Christmas tree ornaments, just begging to be stripped by curious chubby hands, to the frustration of your little darling refusing to eat any of their lovingly prepared Christmas dinner – not just the Brussel sprouts. For parents of little ones Christmas can be a fierce test of endurance and Christmas spirit, so are there ways to cope without downing Great Aunt Edna’s 20 year old bottle of sherry in the pantry?

Read on for ten top festive parenting tips written by Ally MacDonald, ToddlerCalm.

1. Reset your expectations Visions of 1950s movies, with roasting chestnuts and rosy cheeked children in awe at receiving a Satsuma in their stocking belong just there – in fantasy land. In reality most homes resemble a bomb site by 10am on Christmas morning, children won’t feign joy when unwrapping a boxed handkerchief set from your Grandmother and the only colour to their cheeks will come from the smeared chocolate orange they snaffled from the kitchen at 5am.

2. Stock up on batteries well beforehand Buy some in every size because inevitably your child’s favourite present will require batteries and you won’t have any that fit, resulting in much trauma for the rest of the day.

3. Toddlers love boxes Don’t be down-heartened or take it personally when they ignore their lovingly selected presents and prefer to play with the box, this is a universal toddler play law.

4. Don’t expect your toddler to eat their Christmas lunch especially if it involves Brussel sprouts, food tastes stronger and much bitterer to toddlers, to them you may as well be trying to make them eat neat vinegar.

5. Don’t take any unwanted parenting advice seriously The chances are your in-laws, parents, aunts and other relatives have a rose tinted vision of their early parenting years and have forgotten what it was really like. Nod and smile sweetly, or better still change the subject when they start to give you advice.

6. Don’t expect your toddler to sleep well the night before Christmas If the excitement is too much for them, why not give in and let them stay up and fall asleep on the sofa in front of a festive family film?

7. Be prepared that the idea of Father Christmas can be pretty scary to young children Think about it, would you like a big man with a long beard in a funny red outfit breaking in to your house whilst you were in bed asleep?

You could arrange that you meet him at the door and take in the presents when your child is asleep instead. Much less scary!

8. Stagger present opening throughout the day - or even over a few days so that your toddler doesn’t become overwhelmed.

9. Don’t expect your toddler to share his new presents with his siblings or cousins Toddlers really don’t understand the idea of sharing until at least 4 or 5 years old. Imagine if somebody told you to share your presents of new perfume or favourite chocolates as soon as you’d unwrapped them.

You wouldn’t like it much either!

10. Try to restrict the amount of sweets and chocolate that your toddler eats All of the extra sugar and colourings are likely to make him hyper which will have a negative effect on both sleep and behaviour. Plus you can secretly eat them all when he’s gone to bed instead.

For more toddler tips contact your local ToddlerCalm teacher Ally MacDonald on ally@toddlercalm.co.uk or visit www. toddlercalm.co.uk/teachers/ally-macdonald

Unit 5 Stirling Arcade For families who like to play, chat and have fun!

bowyv

Wednesday—Saturday 10am-2pm

See website for details of additional weekly groups and events www.cardboardboxplaycafe.co.uk www.facebook.com/cardboardboxplaycafe

11

Where to find Santa Santa and his Aviemore Reindeer in and around Falkirk

Santa in Dunblane

Santa and his reindeer will parade down the High Street on Thursday 27th 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

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. Monday 8th December Livilands/Shirras Brae, Tuesday 9th Broomridge (Upper), Thursday 11th Broomridge/Wallace Park, Monday 15th Torbrex, Tuesday 16th Coney Park, and Thursday 18th Kings Park.

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, 28th /29th Nov, 6th /7th Dec, 13th/14th Dec and 20th/21st Dec. Booking is essential, phone 01506 825855 or visit www.bkrailway.co.uk

Brunch/Afternoon Tea with Santa at Callendar House For many years we have tried our hardest to get a space in Santa’s diary for him to visit Callendar House. This year he said, “Yes”! Take a break from last-minute holiday shopping and festive-fever to enjoy a memorable family brunch or afternoon tea with Santa and his Happy Little Elf. Each brunch or afternoon tea will be hosted by our Happy Little Elf who will entertain with festive stories and songs, before a special visit from Santa himself who has a lovely Christmas gift for each child. Booking via the Steeple Box Office, High Street, Falkirk 01324 506850. Available on Saturday 20th, Tuesday 23rd and Wednesday 24th December at 11.30am and 2.30pm.

12 12

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 fun, music and family entertainment.

Denny - Saturday 29th November 10-1pm Parade through the town at 10am then the reindeer will be penned until 12pm. Music and fun on stage from 12pm with a visit from Santa and the Teenage Mutant Ninjas Turtles, ice rink and craft market. On Sunday 30th there will be a Christmas Craft Market, Ice Rink, Christmas Fun Fair, and live Christmas music.

Stenhousemuir - Saturday 29th November 3-5pm Parade through the town at 3pm then the reindeer will be penned until 5pm. Live Nativity Scene, with animals, baby Jesus, telling the story of the meaning of Christmas. Music and fun on stage from 3pm with a Santa and the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles helping switch on the lights at 5pm.

Bo’ness - Saturday 6th December 2-4pm Following a short parade into the towns Market Square the reindeer will be penned there until 4pm. From 4.30 to 5.30pm join us with Bo’ness Bands for a torch light procession around town, meeting in East Pier Street car park, and playing in Market Square.

Grangemouth - Saturday 6th December 10-12noon Parade through La Porte Precinct then the reindeer will be penned near the bandstand until 12pm. Craft market in the afternoon from 12noon until 4.00pm.

Falkirk Town Centre - Saturday 13th December 12--4pm Parade through the town at 2pm then the reindeer will be penned in the Trinity Church grounds on the High Street until 4pm.

There will be a Craft Market at Falkirk Trinity Church 12-4pm

Santa in Alloa

Santa will be in his grotto in Alloa Town Centre on Saturday 29th November, 6th, 13th and 20th December. 10-4pm.

Come along and meet Santa in his sleigh. Tickets cost £5 per child and each child will receive a quality gift from Santa. Parents are more than welcome to take photos of their own children with Santa. www.atcbid.com

Howgate Shopping Centre From Saturday 15th 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 15th/16th November, 22nd/23rd November and then every day from 29th November until the 24th December. A visit to Santa costs £3.50 including gift, photography and additional gift items may be purchased and on line booking will be available.

For more information visitwww. intohowgate.co.uk

Santa at Edenmill Farm

Whilst buying your Christmas tree, children can visit Santa in his Grotto, have fun on the hay bales in the play area, and meet Santa’s Reindeer and other friendly farm animals! Santa’s grotto open daily from 1st December. www.edenmill.co.uk

FRESHLY CUT CHRISTMAS TREES DIRECT FROM THE GROWER

Stirling Town Centre and the Thistles Shopping Centre

See Santa and his reindeer parade through town on Sunday 16th November. The parade starts at 2pm from the Corn Exchange going down King Street ends with the opening of Santa’s grotto within the Thistles shopping centre at 2.20pm. The reindeer will then be outside Costa Coffee until 4pm 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

familiescentral centralscotland scotland/ /issue issue254 families

Wreaths and stands also available.

Stirling Rugby Club from 1st December

£10

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07/10/2014 14:27

xmas shows & events

Saturday 22nd November to Wednesday 24th December

Victorian Christmas Kitchen at Callendar House

The Georgian Kitchen will be transformed into the Victorian Christmas Kitchen where you can help Cook stir the Christmas pudding, sample popular dishes and find out how the Victorians would celebrate in a home like Callendar House. On Saturdays throughout December the Kitchen will be filled with the smells of traditional slow roast turkey. Visit in the afternoon and you might be right on time to try a piece! Free Saturday 29th, 6th, 13th and 20th December

Christmas Fun in Alloa Town Centre

There will be a variety of Christmas fun and entertainment in Alloa Town Centre from Christmas parties, giant snow globe, balloon modelling, Cairngorm reindeers, face painting, Song and Dance Factory and the Amazing James. For times and details of what is on visit www.atcbid.com Wednesday 26th November to Sunday 4th January (ex Mondays and 25th Dec and 1st Jan)

Aladdin at the Macrobert, Stirling

A brand new panto written by Johnny McKnight. Grab your boogie shoes because this xmas we guarantee that you will be dancing. The Twankey family live in the town that Stirling Stella almost forgot - Discotopia. Here lives Widow Marge O’Reen Twankey owner of the last laundrette in town. Her oldest daughter, Aladdin, is wildly in love with Prince Jasper but can love survive the grease stains and smell of fabric conditioner?

What will happen when Aladdin rescues that old disco lamp from the cave of wonders? And what evil plan does Lilith have up her bat-winged sleeve. Get your tickets now for a great family panto. For tickets phone 01786 466666 or book online at www.macrobert.org Tuesday 2nd to Sunday 28th December (ex Mondays and 25th Dec)

Too Many Penguins at the Macrobert, Stirling How many

penguins are too many penguins? Mr Polaro thinks that one is more than enough, thank you very much. Penguina wants someone to play with. Just one friend... Well, maybe two... Or three...

How many penguins can we get in one space? Squeeze into this fun theatrical experience, created especially for 3-6 year olds, to find out. It might get crowded, but we promise the arrival of the penguins, however many, will entertain and delight.

For tickets phone 01786 466666 or book online at www.macrobert.org Friday 5th December

The Hunch Back of Notre Dame at Alloa Town Hall M&M Productions

proudly bring to life the wonderful production of The Hunchback of Notre Dame. Beautifully written with strong characters and lots of fun and laughter thrown in, this superb show will thrill and delight audiences alike. This well-loved Pantomime is aimed at Nursery and Primary School aged children. Tickets available by calling the booking office on 01259 213131.

Friday 5th to Saturday 13th December (ex Monday)

Falkirk Youth Theatre presents Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs by Simon Beattie at Falkirk Town Hall This is the must-see

Christmas show for all the family to enjoy with songs, dance and lots of laughter. Get ready to laugh, boo, hiss and sing along!

For tickets phone 01324 506850 Saturday 6th and 13th December

Christmas Tales by the Fireside at Callendar House Gather round

the fireside for a Christmas tale with a difference. Travel back in time and join us in the Callendar House Kitchen for Victorian style story telling this festive period. All children must be accompanied by a supervisory adult. Free but booking essential phone 01324 506850. Suitable for ages 4-10 years. 11.30 and 2.30pm.

Saturday 6th to Sunday 21st December (ex Mondays)

The Pine Tree, Poggle and Me at the Macrobert Stirling

Vince wants to explore the forest but he’s too scared to go on his own. Until one day he meets Poggle, a friendly creature who takes him on an adventure exploring the forest and the magical musical tree.

A funny, sensory dance theatre piece for ages 0-3, with live music, clapping rhythms and bubble popping throughout!

For tickets phone 01786 466666 or book online at www. macrobert.org Monday 8th December

Beaconhurst School presents its annual Carol Concert performed by the School Choir at St Columba’s Church in Stirling 6.30-8.30pm. Funds will be raised for one of the local charities supported

by Beaconhurst. Contact the school on 01786 832146 for tickets or more information. www.beaconhurst.com Tuesday 9th to Saturday 13th December

Dunblane Centre presents Knight Fever A traditional family panto with

fabulous songs, a dragon and more sequins than Strictly. Tickets available from the Dunblane Centre or online www. theatreindunblane.co.uk Saturday 13th December

Winter Lantern Workshop and Parade at Jupiter Wildlife Centre, Grangemouth Make a lantern out of

materials at the centre then if the weather is good come back for the parade at 4pm.Phone 01324 486475 or email jupiterranger@scottishwildlifetrust.org Sunday 14th December

It’s a Kelpie Christmas Join us in

celebrating the Kelpies’ first Christmas with a mince pie and a hot drink as you’re entertained with a selection of festive songs at the Kelpie Plaza. 4pm. Free.

13

out & about

aturday 1st September

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

Saturday 1st November

Howie’s Kids Club at the Howgate Shopping Centre Artie’s Tartan Tales, shows at 11am, 1pm and 3pm www.intohowgate.co.uk

Grangemouth Christmas Lights Switch On With Santa and the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles.

Music and fun in La Porte Precinct from 3pm with the lights going on around 5pm.

Friday 28th November The Beaconhurst Duathlon (running and cycling race) for youngsters aged 8 and above takes place at Stirling University from 9am. For more information phone 01786 832146. www.beaconhurst. com

Wild at Art at Jupiter Wildlife Centre, Grangemouth 2-4pm.

Phone 01324 486475 for more details.

Christmas Craft Fair at the Dunblane Centre

Jupiter Wildlife Centre Wildlife Watch Club: X Marks the Spot Geocaching fun! Monthly wildlife club for children aged 8 to 12 years old. Contact the Jupiter Ranger on 01324 486475.

Dolphin Tale 2 (Autism friendly) Bo’ness Hippodrome.

Shorts for Wee Ones Bo’ness Hippodrome 11am.

Falkirk Christmas Lights Switch On With Santa and Paddington Bear. Music and fun at the Steeple from 3pm with the lights going on at 5pm.

Beaconhurst School Christmas Fayre All are welcome to come along and enjoy the festive fun with a variety of stalls plus games and a Santa’s Grotto for children. Entry is £2.50 for adults, which includes coffee and cake, and free for children. 11am-2pm. www.beaconhurst.com

Antboy Bo’ness Hippodrome 11am.

Clackmannanshire Story Telling Festival Free story telling events for children include Northern Lights at 11am at GR McFaralane Art Gallery and Tales From the Arctic People at 2pm at Resonate Arts House. www.clacksweb.org. uk

Sunday 16th November

Thursday 20th to Sunday 23rd November Country Living Fair at the SECC The Re Wrap It company will be there exhibiting their products. www.re-wrap-it.co.uk Friday 21st November

Saturday 1st and Sunday 2nd November Paranorman (PG) Macrobert Frankenweenie (PG) Macrobert Sunday 2nd November Little Seedlings Club Check in store for details. 01786 458860.

Winter Craft Fair at Bannockburn Primary School 6-8pm. 01786 813274 Saturday 22nd November Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (PG)Bo’ness Hippodrome 11am.

Vintage and Craft Fayre at Falkirk Town Hall 11-4pm.

Sunday 23rd November

Saturday 8th November Jack and Jill Market, Stirling 10.30am - 1pm. 40 stalls of quality, nearly-new baby and kids clothes, cots, toys, buggies, bikes and all the rest (0-9 yrs) Adults £1. St Modans High School, Stirling. To book a stall visit www.jackandjillmarket.co.uk Windstorm (PG) Bo’ness Hippodrome 11am.

Sunday 9th November Jack and Jill Market, Falkirk 10.30am - 1pm. 40 stalls of quality, nearly-new baby and kids clothes, cots, toys, buggies, bikes and all the rest (0-9 yrs) Adults £1.

Grangemouth Sports Complex, Abbots Roads, Grangemouth.

To book a stall visit www. jackandjillmarket.co.uk Saturday 15th November Dolphin Tale 2 Bo’ness Hippodrome 11am.

Bo’ness Christmas Lights Switch On With Santa and the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles. Music and fun in Market Square from 2pm with the lights going on at 4pm.

14

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (Autism friendly) Bo’ness Hippodrome.

New 2 You Market at Alloa Town Hall Have you any pre-loved babies or children’s clothing, toys etc, if so why not book a stall and raise some extra cash? Stands cost £25. Or alternatively, come along and grab yourself a bargain. For more information phone 01259 404104.

Wednesday 26th November to Sunday 4th January (ex public holidays) Macrobert presents Aladdin Grab your boogie shoes because this xmas we guarantee that you will be dancing. Fantastic panto fun. www.macrobert.org Thursday 27th 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. www. discoverdunblane.co.uk

families central scotland / issue 25

Saturday 29th November

Christmas Fun Day and Aviemore Reindeer in Denny Town Centre Santa and his reindeer will parade through the town at 10am then the reindeer will be penned until 12pm. Music and fun on stage from 12pm with another visit from Santa and the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles.

Christmas Lights Switch On and Aviemore Reindeer in Stenhousemuir Town Centre Santa and his reindeer will parade through the town at 3pm then the reindeer will be penned until 5pm. Music and fun on stage from 3pm with a Santa and the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles helping switch on the lights at 5pm.

Children’s Christmas Princess Party at Alloa Town Hall 11am – 1pm. 2 hours of children’s entertainment hosted by one of Santa’s elves, with special guest appearances from Snow White and Belle. Children must be accompanied. Suitable for children aged 3 – 8 years. Phone 01259 404104. £3.

Children’s Christmas Superhero Party at Alloa Town Hall 2pm – 4pm. 2 hours of children’s entertainment hosted by one of Santa’s elves, with special guest appearances from Batman and Spiderman. Children must be accompanied. Suitable for children aged 3 – 8 years. Phone 01259 404104. £3.

Kippen Toddlers and Playgroup Christmas Market at Kippen Village Hall 1pm-4pm. Local stalls as well as Santa’s grotto. Adults £3, Children £1, Concessions £2.

Entrance fee includes tea and cake.

Festive Pop Up Shop at Callendar House A showcase for some of the wonderfully talented artists and craftspeople in the local area.

10.30-4pm.

Saturday 29th and Sunday 30th November Christmas Food Festival at Edenmill Farm, Blanefield 106pm. Packed with a host of exhibitors offering top quality food and drink, entertaining cookery demonstrations, a wealth of craft and gift ideas, Santa’s Grotto, friendly farm animals, a children play area and lots of merriment, there will be something for all the family. www.edenmill.co.uk Saturday 29th November, 6th, 13th and 20th December Santa in Alloa Town Centre Come along and meet Santa in his sleigh.

Tickets cost £5 per child and each child will receive a quality gift from Santa. Parents are welcome to take photos of their own children with Santa. www.atcbid.com 10-4pm.

Saturday 29th and Sunday 30th November, 6th and 7th, 13th and 14th 20th and 21st December Santa Train at Bo’ness Steam Railway Santa travels by steam train, giving a gift to each of the young passengers. www.bkrailway. co.uk Sunday 30th November Christmas Craft Market and Ice Rink in Denny Town Centre Tuesday 2nd to Sunday 28th December Macrobert presents Too Many Penguins Squeeze into this fun theatrical experience, created especially for 3-6 year olds. It might get crowded, but we promise the arrival of the penguins, however many, will entertain and delight. www.macrobert.org Friday 5th December The Hunch Back of Notre Dame at Alloa Town Hall M&M Productions proudly bring to life the wonderful production of The Hunchback of Notre Dame. Beautifully written with strong characters and lots of fun and laughter thrown in, this superb show will thrill and delight audiences alike. This well-loved Pantomime is aimed at Nursery and Primary School aged children.

10am and 7pm. Call the booking office on 01259 213131.

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

Project Theatre present Winter Wonderland at Scott’s Bistro, Grangemouth Friday 5th to Saturday 13th December (ex Monday) Falkirk Youth Theatre presents Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs at Falkirk Town Hall With songs, dance and lots of laughter!

Feel festive in Falkirk this winter.

01324 506850.

Saturday 6th December Small Business Saturday Support your local independent retailers.

Howie’s Kids Club at the Howgate Shopping Centre Song and Dance Factory with Elsa and Mickey Mouse at 10.30 and Snow White and Ben 10 at 12.30pm. www.intohowgate.co.uk Jack and Jill Market, Stirling 10.30am - 1pm. 40 stalls of quality, nearly-new baby & kids clothes, cots, toys, buggies, bikes and all the rest (0-9 yrs) Adults £1. St Modans High School, Stirling. To book a stall visit www.jackandjillmarket. co.uk The Book of Life Bo’ness Hippodrome 11am.

Santa and the Aviemore Reindeer in Grangemouth 10am – 12pm There will be a short parade through La Porte Precinct then the reindeer will be penned near the bandstand until 12pm.

Santa and the Aviemore Reindeer will be in Bo’ness Town Centre 2-4pm Following a short parade into the towns Market Square the reindeer will be penned there until 4pm.

Jupiter Wildlife Centre Wildlife Watch Club: Christmas Cracker A Christmas party with a difference! Phone 01324 486475 for more details. 10.30-12.30pm.

Bridge of Allan Primary School Christmas Fair Santa’s grotto will be one of the highlights of the fair which takes place at the school from 10am. Everyone is welcome to come along for some festive fun including a fantastic raffle, tombola, toy, book and gift stalls, home baking and competitions.

Giant Snow Globe in Alloa Town Centre Ever fancied yourself in your own Snow Globe ornament for Christmas? Well now you can actually step into the festive spirit inside our huge inflatable ball full of Christmas cheer. Get your photograph taken in front of a huge themed backdrop with snowflakes blowing all around. £3 10-4pm.

Balloon Modelling in Alloa Town Centre As one of the best

Balloon Modellers in Scotland, Mr Puffin has been twisting oneof-a-kind, eye-catching balloon sculptures and models for decades.

His unique talent for creating inventive balloons draws crowds everywhere he goes. 10-4pm. Free.

Rollerbeats Christmas Family Roller Disco at Grangemouth Sports Complex Rollerbeats regular family roller disco comes to Grangemouth with a festive flavour, where you can boogie around on skates to pop tunes and Christmas classics. For more information visit www.rollerbeats.co.uk Saturday 6th and 13th December A Christmas Tale by the Fireside at Callendar House Travel back in time and join us in the Callendar House Kitchen for Victorian style story telling this festive period. All children must be accompanied.

Free but booking essential. 01324 506850. Suitable for ages 4-10.

11.30 and 2.30pm.

Saturday 6th to Sunday 21st December Macrobert presents The Pine Tree, Poggle and Me A funny, sensory dance theatre piece for ages 0-3, with live music, clapping rhythms and bubble popping throughout! www.macrobert.org Sunday 7th December Medieval Merriment at Stirling Castle Little Seedlings Club at Dobbies Check in store for details Monday 8th December Beaconhurst School presents its annual Carol Concert performed by the School Choir at St Columba’s Church in Stirling.

6.30-8.30pm. Funds will be raised for one of the local charities supported by Beaconhurst.

Contact the School on 01786 832146 for tickets or more information. www.beaconhurst. com Tuesday 9th to Saturday 13th December Dunblane Centre presents Knight Fever A traditional family panto with all the usual adult culprits, a chorus of 80 (ish) fabulous kids, some fabulous songs, a dragon and more sequins than strictly.

Saturday 13th December Santa and the Aviemore Reindeer and Craft Market at Falkirk Trinity Church on Falkirk High Street Market from 12-4pm with Santa and the reindeer parading through the town at 2pm before

the reindeer penned in the Church grounds until 4pm.

Winter Lantern Workshop and Parade at Jupiter Wildlife Centre, Grangemouth Come and make your lantern out of materials at the centre. 11-3pm. Then if the weather is good come back for the parade at 4pm. £2 Phone 01324 486475 or email jupiterranger@ scottishwildlifetrust.org Hopetoun Christmas Family Workshop Cairngorm Reindeer in Alloa Town Centre Come and see the Cairngorm Reindeer Herd, Britain’s only herd of reindeer, found free ranging in the Cairngorm Mountains in Scotland. These tame and friendly animals are a joy to all who come and see them. Free.

Face Painting in Alloa Town Hall Come along and let Amy transform you into a princess, a pirate, a clown or anything you would wish to be. All products we use are skin friendly, nontoxic and washable. 10-4pm. £2.

Christmas Song and Dance Factory at Alloa Town Centre The children will be transported to our magical Christmas Island, and then alongside our Song and Dance Factory Elf, the children will take part in Christmas themed games, interactive dances and activities using musical instruments and props with a visit from Buzz Lightyear and Woody. 12 and 2pm.

Children must be accompanied by an adult. Suitable for children aged 3 – 8 years. Phone 01259 404104.

Saturday 13th and Sunday 14th December Miracle on 34th Street (U) Bo’ness Hippodrome Sunday 14th December It’s a Kelpie Christmas at The Helix Join us in celebrating the Kelpies’ first Christmas with a mince pie and a hot drink as you’re entertained with a selection of festive songs. 4pm. Free.

Friday 19th December Christmas Choir Concert at the Dunblane Centre Saturday 20th December Father Christmas and The Snowman (U) Bo’ness Hippodrome 11am.

Face Painting in Alloa Town Hall Come along and let Amy transform you into a princess, a pirate, a clown or anything you would wish to be. All products we use are skin friendly, nontoxic and washable. 10-4pm. £2

out & about

Amazing James in Alloa Town Centre Enjoy this 2 hour show with the Amazing James, from musical games to singing and dancing, magic and balloon modelling. 11-1pm. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

Suitable for children aged 3 – 8 years. Phone 01259 404104.

Saturday 20th Tuesday 23rd and Wednesday 24th December Brunch and Afternoon tea with Santa at Callendar House 11.30 and 2.30pm. Each brunch or afternoon tea will be hosted by our Happy Little Elf who will entertain with festive stories and songs, before a special visit from Santa himself who has a lovely Christmas gift for each child. For tickets phone 01324 506850.

Sunday 21st December

A Bairns Christmas Concert at the Falkirk Town Hall A wonderful carol concert for the whole family.

2.30am and 7pm.

Sunday 21st, Monday 22nd and Wednesday 24th December It’s a Wonderful Life (U) Bo’ness Hippodrome Tuesday 23rd and 30th December Winter Children’s Startrack Athletics Festival at Grangemouth Sports Complex Children and young people can keep active with us at our Winter Children’s Startrack Festival where they can take part in festive themed sporting activities and games.

Booking essential. 01324 590940.

Saturday 27th and Sunday 28th December Winter Diesel Gala at Bo’ness Steam Railway www.bkrailway. co.uk Tuesday 30th and Wednesday 31st December 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 www.bkrailway. co.uk Thursday 1st January New Years Day Skate at the Helix Join Falkirk Wheelers for a bracing January 1st skate at Helix Park before tucking into your steak pie lunch. For more information visit: www.falkirkwheelers.co.uk 11am.

into christmas

Come and visit...

Santa’s

Each visit isit includes a special gift from Santa £3.50 per visit Photograph memorabilia available from £5.00

Opening Times Sat 15th 11am-5pm, Sun 16th 12pm-6pm Sat 22nd 11am-5pm, Sun 23rd 11am-4pm Open every day between 29th Nov until Christmas Eve Located just outside Argos Book your visit online or at the help desk

www.intohowgate.co.uk