Families Fife Sep-Oct 2014

EE FR

the really useful magazine and website for families in the fife region

Inco rporating Perth & Kinross

Issue 27 • Sept/Oct 2014

www.familiesfife.co.uk

Back to class

Families is full of autumn colour, holiday fun and diary dates

Also including: local news, events and what’s on guide

Pick up your copy in…

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

Contents

Inco rporating Perth & Kinross

Learn to Read in 5 Weeks – for FREE! From 30 July to 30 September your child can join thousands of children across the UK taking part in the Reading Eggs Great Literacy Challenge – a nationwide effort to inspire children to read!

This FREE event will give your child 5 WEEKS FREE* access to Reading Eggs – the online reading programme that teaches children aged 3 – 13 the literacy skills needed for lifetime reading success.

Sign up for your FREE trial* today and see for yourself how your child’s reading improves by using Reading Eggs.

Welcome to Families Fife

5

Who, What, Where, When New Fife Families website and Kirkcaldy mum Sharon asks whether we overprotect our children

6

Birth, Baby & Beyond Looking at all things baby related

8

Education & Childcare Families explores the benefits of tutoring and playgroups

11

Clubs & Classes Update from local class providers

12

Holiday Guide With sports clubs, theatre shows, camps and more

14

Out and about Day by day guide to what’s on in September and October

Contact us

FREE

Editor: Susan Kirkwood, editor@familiesfife.co.uk Tel: 01383 735938 or 07734 289 143 Cover image: Anne and Lawrie with thanks to Alex McIvean Design: White Creative www.whitecreativecompany.co.uk Circulation: 12,000 copies printed. Distributed free of charge throughout Fife, Perth and Kinross by kind permission of Fife Libraries, Fife Leisure Centres, antenatal clinics, health visitors, surgeries, community use schools, Theatres in Fife and Perth, places of historic interest, local attractions, selected shops and playgroups and play centres.

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

5 WEEK TRIAL*

Hurry, offer ends 30 September 2014.

Register today at

www.readingeggs.co.uk/scotland

NEXT ISSUE: Nov-Dec 2014 Booking deadline: 3 October, Out: 3 November 2014

*Free trial only available for new customers who sign up at the above address.

The multi-award winning online reading programme!

2 | Families Fife Issue 27 RE_BTSUK1304_BTS_GLC_Scotland resized.indd 1

3

Families Fife© is a part of a larger group of magazines headed by Families SW London©. All franchised magazines are independently owned and operated under license. We take every care preparing this magazine, but the publishers and distributors cannot be held responsible for the claims of advertisers nor for the accuracy of the contents nor for any consequences. Any original materials submitted for publication are sent at owner’s own risk and, while every care is taken, neither Families nor its agents accept liability for loss or damage.

www.familiesfife.co.uk 14/07/2014 9:35 am

www.familiesfife.co.uk

Y

ou know it’s been a long summer break when, completely unbidden, the kids start to practice their times tables and start wondering what next term’s project topic might be.

Yes, this summer was great, the sun actually shone and when it rained, there was always the live coverage of the Commonwealth Games to fall back on. But alas, it’s now time again to sew (or let’s face it, iron) the name labels onto pristine blouses and trousers, to reintroduce fruit and veg into the family diet and even perhaps try to get the children in bed before you.

As always, there is masses to do and Families is here to help you find it. Interestingly, I found plenty of events around the Centenary of WW1 to encourage children to engage with the past (notably the exhibition at the Kirkcaldy Galleries) but nothing to engage them with thoughts on our future come 18th September. Perhaps because they don’t have a vote, they are not expected to have an opinion? I am sure that you do as parents, however, and I look forward to seeing you on the other side of the Referendum be that business as usual or a new Scottish Shangri la to come. 

Susan Kirkwood, Editor

Borrow bikes- have a go at cycling on us!

Desperately Seeking (another) Susan

Desperately Seeking (another) Susan

Families magazine is e x p a n d i n g … and I need help to make it happen.

The ideal person will most likely be a mum [or gran], who’s always considered running ake yourbut move her own franchise has perhaps been Kirkcaldy havecosts. a Working put off by the associated fleet of bicycles you can for Families Fife, you won’t have to incur borrow for freeor if you are any financial outlay, be responsible for living, orfees. studying covering anyworking franchise All you need in Kirkcaldy.

There’s an that is, a is love.

Of Families magazine assortment adult sizes passion for print,of a way with words and a each bike comes withalso need the greatand telephone manner.

You’ll all the to accessories you will confidence sell advertising and develop to getnew youterritory. going. Sound yourneed own brand exciting? Ifyou haven’t got a bike of your own and you’re interested in getting out and about on two wheels, this is a great way to see how you enjoy it. Cycling is a perfect way to get around a town the size of Kirkcaldy, you could use it as a way of commuting to work, nipping to the shops, taking the kids to school or just for a bit of exercise. Don’t know where to go? Grab a copy of our new map with all the cycle routes in Kirkcaldy. Or you can download a copy from our website www.makeyourmovekirkcaldy.co.uk Getting out into the fresh air on a bike burns calories, gets your heart pumping and even works the abs. It can lift your mood and improve your general health and wellbeing.

You might be losing pounds by cycling but you will be gaining them in your pocket with the savings you make on fuel and fares. 

Families magazine is e x p a n d i n g … and I need help to make it happen.

The ideal person will most likely be a mum [or gran], who’s always considered running her own franchise but has perhaps been put off by the associated costs. Working for Families Fife, you won’t have to incur any financial outlay, or be responsible for covering any franchise fees. All you need is love. Of Families magazine that is, a passion for print, a way with words and a great telephone manner. You’ll also need the confidence to sell advertising and develop your own brand new territory. Sound exciting? 

M

Interested? Simply get in touch with Make your move Kirkcaldy’s Project Officer Alex via email alex.mcintosh@ sustrans.org.uk or call on 07920 865 013 to check availability and schedule a suitable pick-up day.

Desperately Seeking (another) Susan Families magazine is e x p a n d i n g… … and my time is contracting.

So I need your help!

The ideal person will most likely be a parent living in Fife, Perth or Dundee who’s passionate about the region and looking for a work from home opportunity. They’ll also need sales experience and the confidence to sell advertising, both online and in print.

Sound like you?

Working for Families Fife, you won’t be able to retire at 50, but you will have fun, make contacts and earn cash and commission. Call me, Susan, on 01383 735938 for an informal chat. 

Pick up a new

free walking & cycling map

There's so much on that seven weeks may not be eno

to guide your family day out in Kirkcaldy download from makeyourmovekirkcaldy.co.uk or contact Alex T: 07920 865 013 E: info@makeyourmovekirkcaldy.co.uk www.makeyourmovekirkcaldy.co.uk

www.familiesfife.co.uk

@mymkirkcaldy

facebook.com/makeyourmovekirkcaldy

Issue 27 Families Fife | 3

News: Who, What, Where, When …

One stop shop for parents and carers A

one-stop-shop for parents and carers, a new website has been launched to provide support and advice from new-borns through to school age.

Hosted on Fife Direct, support and services from across Fife Council, NHS Fife, voluntary organisation partners and national bodies such as NHS Scotland can all be found at the click of a button. www.fifedirect.org.uk/families For new parents, advice can be sought from pregnancy and birth through to breastfeeding and baby safety such as fitting the right car seat.

For those with toddlers, the site can help guide parents through everything from applying for a nursery place through to advice from NHS Scotland on how to handle the emotional challenges faced as children grow up. For example dealing with tantrums, bedwetting or getting into a different routine as they get older.

For older children, starting school can be a significant time – for them and you. The Catchment Checker is an easy way of finding the schools local to you and the ‘Things For

Take Time To Get Involved

Take Time” is Fife’s campaign to inspire and encourage parents to give their child the best start in life. By taking more time to interact with their children through activities such as cuddling, playing, chatting and reading, parents and families can play a big part in a child’s development. The campaign aims to help crucial aspects of a child’s development namely: ÊÊ Attachment Ê Literacy Ê ÊÊ Physical wellbeing ÊÊ Healthy eating.

Take Time To Explore launched in July and is the third in our series of six campaigns.

Visit the Take Time Section of our Families site today to read about Explore and then click on our quick questionnaire. We want your views so we can continue to improve.

The consultation pages will be live from 1st September 2014 to 1st December 2014.

Kids To Do’ section has loads of great ideas to get children active in the community and have lots of fun.

Coming soon: Take Time… ÊÊTo Eat Well ÊÊFor A Story ÊÊ For You If you have any topics, themes or information you would like to see on our website, visit our site and let us know. 

www.fifedirect.org.uk/families

Perfect for a special birthday

K Take time to

explore Find out about free or low cost activities to explore this October break.

A host of ideas, services and support for you and your children is only a click away. Take Time to get involved and give us your feedback.

Working together to give children the best start

fifedirect.org.uk/families 4 | Families Fife Issue 27

atherine Pearson is local mum from Kirkcaldy, who runs a successful cake making and decorating business from home. She has a wealth of experience in both restaurants and hospitality but now focuses her culinary efforts around cakes and party cakes. She is a professionally qualified cake decorator and can turn her skills to all manner of speciality bakes. Her favourite commission is for children’s cakes, as they can be any design and shape. From football cakes to fairy castles and even the new ‘minion’ shaped cake, she has tackled them all, much to the delight of many local children.

Katherine usually takes around 2 weeks notice for cakes, but can be flexible as she works from home. The final creations can be delivered or picked up from her kitchen in Kirkcaldy.  Email: pearsonkatherine@hotmail.com Website: www. creativecakesbykatherine.co.uk Tel 07872 925318. Facebook: Creative Cakes by Katherine

Creative Cakes

by Katherine

T: 07872 925318 E: pearsonkatherine@hotmail.com W: www.creativecakesbykatherine.co.uk Creative Cakes by Katherine

www.familiesfife.co.uk

It’s a Wonderful Fife Are we really the generation bringing up “cotton wool kids”? Are we too protective of our children? Do we fear for them so much that we actually prevent them realising their own potential? Fife mum, columnist and blogger Sharon Gilfillan shares her concerns here.

Cotton Wool Kids

A

s a mum of two quasi-feral children, age 9 and 7, I am probably in the minority that currently allows their 7 year olds to walk their neighbourhood alone.

They were allowed to visit our corner shop at age 5, crossing one road and 5 minutes out of sight. Granted, I spent their first few excursions timing and standing look out at the gate, but they did it and gained their own sense of achievement. It is so important to their emotional development.

If children are not given the opportunity to challenge themselves by experiencing the world alone, how will they grow and learn to take care of themselves?

We are so fortunate in our street as our school playground remains open evenings and during the holidays. This is something more schools should be encouraged to do, providing a safe outdoor space within neighbourhoods, for children to play unsupervised. My two are free to play with friends and have learned to share the space with older and younger children, risk assessing bikes and football dodging but enjoying the freedom to build their own confidence whilst strengthening mine in them.

In the past 40 years the number of 7 year olds allowed to play outside unsupervised has dropped from just under 50% in 1971, to less than 10% in 2011 thus considerably diminishing our children’s freedom. Are our decisions as parents influenced by media headlines or do we actually restrict our children’s sense of adventure and imagination due to our own fears of them being hurt?

My kids spent glorious afternoons this summer climbing the trees in the Memorial Gardens. My fear isn’t about Grace or Gabe falling or breaking their arms, for in fact, both are competent tree-scalers and aware of their own abilities. My real fear is that next summer, when they ask to go back, there will be a plaque on the trees stating. “No Climbing”.

Such preventative measures are on the increase due to councils alleviating the possibility of [over] protective parents taking legal action for their children being hurt. But at what cost to our children’s life experiences?

Even in our home, I see my friends fear as their children gleefully spy Grandad’s homemade guiders with dodgy brakes and stilts, which my two have successfully mastered. Granted they have the grazes to go with their achievements but come on...

I appreciate parents concerns; indeed my Editor has limited my word count to fit in a disclaimer! Parents, we are here to teach our children to grow, to encourage their confidence, to allow them to develop their own strengths and determination, to give them the ability to assess life’s difficulties and discover their own resourcefulness.

Please, we are not here to wrap them up in cotton wool.

Editor’s note. Sticking plasters available in all good chemists.  Source: ITV Tonight Policy Studies Institute - 1971 just under 50% of 7 year olds walked alone around their streets, 40 years later <10% of 7 year olds allowed to walk alone around their neighbourhood.

Open Doors Day Sun 7th, 14th and 21st Sept in Fife

T

he first three Sundays in September will again provide the perfect opportunity for families from all over the region to get behind the scenes in some of Fife’s most famous buildings – many which are not always open to the public. Top of my hit list is the brilliantly named Urthrogle Mill in Cupar to see just how my favourite breakfast is prepared. What will you visit?

Choose from places like the newly improved Dreel Hall in Anstruther or the state of the art, Art Deco Fire Station in Kirkcaldy.

Or perhaps you’ll end up behind bars visiting one of the Sherriff courts. There are over 70 walks, buildings and places to visit and at many venues there will be storytellers venturing stories and rhyme to enchant and entertain.

Children will love picking up a Children’s Passport which allows them to plan their visits, answering questions at each venue to then send off for a prize.  For more information contact Theresa Hughes, 01345 555555 ext: 471813 or find details from libraries or search Doors Open Days on Fife Direct.

2014

Scotland’s Quality Nearly-New Baby & Kids Market

The Jack & Jill Market Where Smart Mums Sell & Save

DUNFERMLINE - Sat. 6th Sept. & Sat. 4th Oct. The Vine Conference Centre, KY11 4JU

PERTH - Sat. 6th Sept. & Sat. 18th Oct. Bell’s Sports Centre, PH1 5HS

Adults £1.50 Kids FREE

Book a Stall NOW - Keeping 100% www.jackandjillmarket.co.uk

0-9yrs

Indoor Markets 10.30am - 1pm Across Scotland + Online Market

www.familiesfife.co.uk

Buildings, walks & exhibitions across Fife - over 70 venues - free!

Don’t forget to pick up your Children’s Passport at any venue.

EAST FIFE Sun 7th Sept CENTRAL FIFE Sun 14 Sept WEST FIFE Sun 21 Sept Find details from libraries or search Doors Open Days www.doorsopendays.org.uk

Issue 27 Families Fife | 5

Birth, Baby & Beyond

Celebrating Pregnancy, Birth and Beyond When Sunday 28th of September 2014 11am till 4pm Where Synergy Yoga and Therapy Centre Crompton Road Glenrothes

*FREE EVENT*

T

he ‘Celebrating Pregnancy, Birth and Beyond’ event is unique collaboration of pregnancy, birth, and early years services, and the first of its kind in Fife.

Organised by a group of local women with varying skills but the same passion to ensure that ALL women/families have the access to information, resources and services that will make their journey through pregnancy, birth and early parenthood a happy, enjoyable and satisfying one.

Our journey into parenthood opens up a whole new world of products and services

that we didn’t know existed. We don’t know what’s right, what’s wrong, what we need and what we don’t need. Some people don’t find anything that appeals to them. It’s very easy to get swept along the conveyor belt of investing in highly marketed, well known products. Particularly as a first time mum it feels safe to go with what the majority.

But what if there was a whole other world out there, not highly marketed, but services that are available because the people behind them truly believe in them and are passionate that they can enhance your pregnancy, birth and early years’ experience.

Coming together for the first time

under one roof will be a range of pregnancy services, ante natal educators, early years parenting, and much much more.

Each service taking part will have a table where you can chat about what is being offered.

There will also be demonstrations taking place at regular intervals for the services that require a more ‘hands on’ display.

We hope that people coming along will enjoy the opportunity to learn more, and be inspired to make a change, come off the conveyor belt, and follow their heart.

Confirmed Participants

ÊÊ Emma Gilmour from SlingSure. Sound safe advice and demonstrations on all sorts of slings and carriers for you and your baby. ÊHelen Ê Kermode from Vital Spark Shiatsu.

Shiatsu for women’s health, fertility, pregnancy, birth preparation and post-natal or beyond. ÊBonnie Ê Ewan from HypnoBirthing Fife.

Information and talk on the highly successful HypnoBirthing, Mongan Method. The easiest way to prepare for a safe, calm, more comfortable birth. ÊMaggie Ê McKeen. HypnoBirthing Fertility Education Courses, Yoga for Pregnancy Classes & Yoga for Fertility one to one’s. ÊKaty Ê Brown from La Leche League.

Mother-to-mother support, information and encouragement for all women who want to breastfeed their babies. 

Daily difference

W

e all know what it’s like to feel exhausted especially during a long busy day, but that’s just part of modern day lifestyle, and coping with everything is an everyday battle.

Did you know that taking Pharmaton Vitality capsules can help reduce tiredness and restore vitality when taken daily for a maximum period of twelve weeks?

Try Pharmaton Vitality capsules (licensed medicine) which are packed with vitamins, minerals and the unique Ginseng G115 that’s clinically proven to relieve fatigue and also aid mental and physical wellbeing. It is supported by over 30 clinical trials and studies. 

Pharmaton Vitality Capsules, to feel the positive difference. Always read the label

6 | Families Fife Issue 27 55346 Pharmaton UK AD 87mm x 130mm AW.indd 1

www.familiesfife.co.uk 08/07/2014 12:44

SlingSure and Babywearing

Close, loving contact with their caregivers helps babies to thrive and increasing numbers of parents are turning to the ancient art of babywearing to support this bond. Babywearing is the practice of carrying your child in a baby carrier, or sling. Many people begin babywearing when their child is a baby, but parents of toddlers and pre-schoolers often find it has remained a fantastic parenting tool for them. Here are just some of the reasons why: ÊIncreasing Ê baby’s feeling of security, being in a sling soothes and calms them, promoting trust which, in turn, helps develop independence ÊUsing Ê slings to bond further can increase parental confidence and wellbeing ÊÊ Can significantly reduce infant stress and crying, especially in babies with colic ÊHelps Ê baby’s development emotionally, physically and socially ÊConvenience Ê – slings can often go where buggies can’t!

When you’re choosing the right sling for you and your baby, the huge array of options can be exciting, yet daunting. Emma Gilmour of SlingSure is a fully trained member of BABI (British Association of Babywearing Instructors) who offers one-to-one consultations (all levels), workshops and sling safety awareness talks. If you’d like to find out more about slings and babywearing, contact Emma for a chat and take the next step on your babywearing journey…  0777 315 8233 01592 501004 emma@slingsure.co.uk Like ‘SlingSure’ on Facebook for links, updates and offers www.facebook.com/slingsure

www.familiesfife.co.uk

Think positive

I

decided to train to be a Birth ROCKS antenatal educator because I am passionate about helping pregnant women and their birth partners to feel prepared to make informed choices for birth. I am also passionate about empowering pregnant women and their partners to feel confident and positive about birth, and to prepare with excitement…rather than fear.

The Birth ROCKS course is positive, honest and realistic and focused on the

unique needs of parents to be. The Birth ROCKS course teaches about a variety of coping techniques and soothing strategies so that pregnant women and their birth partners can choose techniques that are suitable for them. I also offer 1:1 mentoring on request.  The next available 2 day course is on 18th and 25th October at the Synergy Centre. Contact me for more details. roz@ yogabellies.co.uk www.birthrocks.co.uk

Back on track

P

hysiotherapist led Antenatal and Postnatal educational exercise programmes ran over 4 sessions. Each session consists of a short discussion followed by gym ball and mat based exercises targeting the muscles weakened through pregnancy. The antenatal programme is suitable after 12 weeks and covers understanding the changes your body goes through; the importance of posture; safe and effective exercise in pregnancy; the pelvic floor; physical preparation for labour and a practical session on relaxation.

The postnatal programme is suitable after your 6 week check and beyond, it’s never too late to work on things! It provides you with the information and tools to regain your flat tummy and fitness after pregnancy, addressing abdominal splits and developing the pelvic floor muscles to reduce the incidence of incontinence. Ideal for ladies

who are uncertain of how to exercise safely, have back pain, pelvic pain or pelvic floor issues or want to be proactive in their prevention. Participants are provided with an exercise pack for home reference.  Email or telephone for more details or visit www.fitbackandbumps.co.uk

FitBack & Bumps

Ante and Post Natal educational exercise programmes All classes run by experienced and chartered physiotherapist Annabelle Di Salvo Tel: 07877 452632 Email: info@backfitphysio.co.uk Web: www.fitbackandbumps.co.uk Issue 27 Families Fife | 7

Education and Childcare

How to get on better with your child’s school or nursery

By Hannah Hunter esearch shows that the better your relationship with your child’s school, the more they will enjoy learning and do well.

However it’s often impossible to know what really goes on at school – children are not very forthcoming when it comes to recounting their day. If they do raise any issues, or if you sense something is amiss, it can be difficult to know how to broach the subject with school.

As both a parent and a primary teacher, I know how hard it can be to strike the right balance. If you’re meeting a teacher outside of parents’ evening or class surgeries, it’s because there is a problem. These meetings can easily become tense, with both ‘sides’ on the defensive.

R

Here are a few tips for successful communication:

Ê Assume Ê the best of your child’s teacher.

They are trained professionals who understand the curriculum and child development. They ultimately want the same as you – a happy child who is learning. ÊLet Ê teachers know if there are problems at home. You don’t have to go into graphic detail, just tell them if something’s happened which may affect your child’s behaviour. Ê Please Ê don’t assume that your child always tells the truth! After all, teachers don’t automatically believe what your child tells them about home.

Ê Remain Ê calm and neutral “Little Johnny came home rather upset about xxx, I wondered what your take on it is…”, rather than “Why did you shout at Little Johnny like that?” Ê Mediation Ê If you have issues with a teacher’s conduct, and feel upset or angry, it’s best that an additional member of staff is present. Ê Talk Ê to the teacher first Even negative feedback is appreciated. Going directly to the head is a bit like them phoning your boss whenever your child misbehaves! Ê Remember Ê that teachers are human.

They sometimes make mistakes, so try to forgive them for it.

Helping out in school

Get an insight into how things are run and improve your relationship with the school by volunteering. ÊParent Ê Helper. Helping out in class can be fun and rewarding. Research shows that having a parent who volunteers improves a child’s experience of school. Organise a DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) check (Disclosures in Scotland) - you can then volunteer regularly or as a one-off. ÊSchool Ê Trips. If you’ve had the DBS check, this one is great for ingratiating yourself. On what is invariably a stressful day, a responsible parent helping out can be a lifesaver!

Kumon’s maths and English study programmes are tailored to your child’s individual needs, nurturing their independence and enthusiasm for learning.

To unlock your child’s potential, contact your local Instructor for a Free Assessment.

Glenrothes Study Centre Lesley Shaw 01383 822 814

Develop your child’s independence kumon.co.uk

8 | Families Fife Issue 27

ÊUse Ê your Expertise. Maybe there’s a school club that would fit your skill set or interests.

If not, you could talk to the class or even do an assembly. One volcanologist parent at my son’s school did a legendary presentation including exploding volcanoes. ÊJoin Ê the PTA. Fostering closer home-

Learn to Read in 5 Weeks for

FREE*

with the Reading Eggs Great Literacy Challenge!

F

rom 20 August to 30 September your child can join thousands of children across the UK taking part in the Reading Eggs Great Literacy Challenge – a nationwide effort to inspire children to read!

Readings Eggs provides a comprehensive range of online reading lessons and eBooks that teach children aged 3–13 the literacy skills needed for lifetime reading success. The reason why over 90% of parents using Reading Eggs report a noticeable improvement in their child’s reading skills is because the programme makes learning phonics and basic reading skills fun.

Sign up for our special 5 WEEK FREE trial* as part of the Reading Eggs Great Literacy Challenge and see for yourself how your child’s reading improves by using Reading Eggs. 

Simply register your child at www.readingeggs.co.uk/scotland Registration is quick, easy and FREE! *Free trial only available to new customers who sign up at the above address. Not applicable for schools.

www.familiesfife.co.uk

One-to-one tuition

school links, the PTA usually organise the school’s fundraising projects, from fetes to family quiz nights. Run by committee, they may include ‘class reps’ who pass on information from other parents in the class. ÊSchool Ê Governor. Comprising parent governors and other community members, this group of elected volunteers helps to make management decisions, such as running buildings and budgets, supporting staff and setting discipline standards.

It can be time-consuming, particularly if the school’s results are getting worse or it’s going through a big change like appointing a new head teacher, or joining with another school. ÊParent Ê Council member. Some schools have a Parent council, where parents meet to share ideas that are fed back to the school governors. This is great if you’re too busy to commit to PTA or Governors, but want to have an input.

For tips on Back to School like how to settle a child at nursery or health packed lunches etc go to www.familiesonline.co.uk

www.familiesfife.co.uk

ÊEmbrace Ê the new academic year with the help of Kumon Every parent wants their child to enjoy school, achieve their potential and go on to lead a happy and successful life. At this time of year as our children return to school, we often consider how to best support them in the year ahead. In the school classroom, some pupils are ready to move on faster than others and feel they aren’t motivated or stretched enough or conversely some pupils may be moved on before they have fully mastered previous work. So, many parents are looking beyond school for effective ways to ensure their child has the support they need to excel.

Kumon Educational, one of the leading supplementary education providers in the UK, offers maths and English after-school study programmes, designed to help all children to fulfil their potential. As the Kumon programmes are tailored to the needs of each individual child they can support children of all abilities. Enrolling your child at a Kumon study centre at this time of year is a great way to kick start the new academic year.

By enriching a child’s school education, Kumon’s programmes, which are tailored to each individual child, allow all students to advance and thrive at their own speed.

ÊSTEP Ê AHEAD Tutoring and Educational Services, the leading teacher organisation offers one-to-one tuition in the homes of clients or tutors throughout East and Central Scotland.

The power of individual tuition is being felt by countless children and is reflected in the outstanding results achieved in national examinations, including Highers and Advanced Highers, as well as at all younger stages.

All academic subjects are catered for from primary through secondary in the new Curriculum for Excellence, including the new National 4 and 5.

STEP AHEAD also helps children to start their new school with confidence, ensuring that they will enjoy equal academic attainment as their new school friends.

STEP AHEAD has expertise in, and an outstanding record for, helping children gain places in independent schools.

Our commitment to nurturing the raw ability and developing self-confidence in all children, regardless of background or experience, ensures we continually help pupils reach the best standards for independent and high school entry.

A highly personal and caring service is provided - by selected tutors - starting with detailed assessment, then regular and consistent tutoring, leading to considerable progress, as reflected in hundreds of testimonials.  For further information: www.stepaheadtuition.com Tel : 01383 624599 / 07967024726

Nursery News

Happy Halloween! Staff and children will be taking part in various spooky activities for Halloween. There will be dressing up, carving pumpkins, dooking for apples and lots of messy fun. The playrooms will be full of many eerie decorations with witches, ghosts, black cats and devils in the midst. Lauriston Nursery, Dunfermline 01383 741900.

This can sit as a wee feature of its own perhaps on the second education page? Insert the table in the best readable format you can. It shouldn’t be too big as they aren’t paying much so see what you can do. No logo as such but any toy image may spice up? Hoping to encourage others to use and pay for this format too going forward. 

Issue 27 Families Fife | 9

Education and Childcare

Playgroups – where learning is fun P

lay is an essential part of a child’s development. It helps them become confident and independent. Playgroups provide a safe environment in which your children can learn through play and develop

new skills. They also provide an opportunity to socialise with children of their own age in a safe environment without parents/carers being present.

Most groups provide a range of free play

areas including sand/water tables, home corner, construction, small world, & story corner with more structured activities also available. Pop in for a visit and see for yourself what they can offer you and your child. 

Nursery

Address

Days

Time

Age range

Contact us

Little VIPs Playgroup

United Reform Church, 6 Canmore Street, Dunfermline

Mon, Wed & Fri

9.30-12.00

2 – 5 yrs

07731 502298. info@littlevipsplaygroup.co.uk

Markinch Playgroup

252 Memorial Hall, 26 Betson St, Markinch

Mon - Fri

9.00-12.10

2 1/2 - 5 yrs

Pitcorthie Playgroup

John Marshall Community Centre, Pitreavie School Grounds, Pitcorthie Drive, Dunfermline

Mon - Fri

Pitreavie Playgroup

The Bungalow, Pitreavie Playing Fields, Queensferry Road, Dunfermline

Mon - Fri

Aberdour Playgroup

Aberdour Community Centre, 9 Shore Road, Aberdour

Benachie Playgroup

07922 412348. admin@markinchplaygroup.com

9.20-12.30

2 1/2 - 5 yrs

01383 729666 susan.playgroup@btinternet.com

Morning & afternoon sessions

2 1/2 - 5 yrs

Mon, Thur, & Fri

AM: 9.00-12.10 PM: 12.40-3.50 Lunch club available

2 1/2 - 5 yrs

07434 523099. info@aberdourplaygroup.org

The Studio at the Music Institute, Carnegie Hall, Dunfermline

Mon, Wed, & Fri

9.15-11.30

2 1/2 - 5 yrs

07815056943

Dalgety Bay Playgroup

Dalgety Bay Parish Church, Regents Way, Dalgety Bay

Mon-Fri. Thur lunchclub Thur pm 2 plus session

9.10-12.20, 12.20–1.20 1.20–3.50 1.30– 2.45 Thursday 9.45–11.15 Friday

2 yrs Primary age

dalgetybayplaygroup@hotmail.co.uk

Brambles Playgroup

Rosyth Methodist Church, Queensferry Road, Rosyth, Dunfermline

Wed Thur Friday

09.15-11.45 & 12.45-15.15

2 1/2 Primary age

07758 877284

12.45-15.15 09.15-11.45 & 12.45-15.15

01383 622107. 07811219785. pitreavie playgroup@hotmail.co.uk

annettebo ndbenachie@gmail.com

07751 502 407 (during session times)

brambles@osythmethodist.org.uk

Free childminder pre-registration courses P

PERTH & KINROSS CHILDMINDING COURSES

Have you ever thought about whether it would suit you to be self-employed and working from home as a childminder?

If so you might be interested in attending one of the childminder courses being run by Perth and Kinross Council’s Childcare Strategy Team.

The next round of courses will run from 6.30pm to 9pm from 28th Aug until 2nd Oct. A two-day course will be held on 2nd & 3rd Sept, from 9:30am - 4:30pm with a free crèche provided.Plus a two day course on 11th & 12th Nov. Dates for courses in Spring 2015 will be announced in due course.

For more details: phone 01738 472350 or e-mail: childcare@pkc.gov.uk 10 | Families Fife Issue 27

erth & Kinross Council’s Childcare Strategy Team is continuing to offer free pre-registration training courses for anyone thinking about becoming a childminder in the Perth and Kinross area.

The next round of courses will be held throughout August and September. An evening course will run from 6.30pm to 9pm over six Thursdays, starting on 28th Aug to 2nd Oct. A two-day course will be held on Tues 2nd and Wed 3rd Sept, from 9:30am - 4:30pm each day with a free crèche provided. Plus a two day course on 11th and 12th Nov. Dates for courses in Spring 2015 will be announced in due course.

All of the sessions will be held in the Community Wing at Perth Grammar School.  For further information about the courses, or to find out more about childminding, please call the Childcare Strategy Team on 0845 601 4477 or email childcare@pkc.gov.uk Full details are also available on www.pkc.gov.uk/childminding

www.familiesfife.co.uk

Clubs and classes All stories and extraordinary plots!

T

he young students of the Helen O’Grady Drama Academy have been storing up stories, adventures, schemes, plots and surprises all summer, and we want to hear about them! True or imaginary, possible or contrived, each week they will be able to evolve their ideas into a workable play– they will stretch their imaginations and combine their ideas with those of their friends – they will learn how to co-operate, listen, prepare and perform, growing in confidence, and above all, having fun!

Our Drama classes encourage creativity, language skills and sociability in an encouraging and non-competitive environment, and there are 3 age groups for all children aged 5 – 17.  For more information, visit www.helenogradyeastcentralscotland.co.uk or ring 01382 330052

Clubs news Doodle and Splat

New term Starts W/C 1st Sept and runs for 6 wks. Doodle and Splat

Rugbytots classes in fife

L

ooking for an energetic fun class for your child. Rugbytots has limited spaces left in all classes in Fife.

Come along and join in the fun! We have availability in Letham, Dalgety Bay and Dunfermline. All bookings can be done online at http://www.rugbytots. co.uk.

One mum recently commented ‘Many thanks, Rugbytots has been by far the best activity that we have taken part in and worth every penny for the range of skills and the discipline.’ e-mail sandra@ rugbytots.co.uk or call 0845 313 3252

are also going to be in the Mercat Shopping Centre on Sat 20th September with FREE arts & craft for all ages. No booking is required for this as it is just a drop in

session from 10am - 4pm.

Dates for the diary: Doodle & Splat Christmas parties will be on Sat 13th December, details on tickets will be coming out soon! 

“Drama gives me the chance to be the person I want to be” Shireen aged 15

YT@FC Youth Theatre at Fife College

Classes for children and young people aged 3 - 25 (and beyond!). Established in 2001.

Classes run Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays at either Fife College Halbeath’s campus or at Duloch Community School, Dunfermline or at Rothes Halls Glenrothes. See classes listings for full details.

T: 0844 248 0115 W:www.fife.ac.uk E:enquiries@fife.ac.uk

Art, Craft & Messy Play "Let's make something fun

Arts & Craft Classes in Dunfermline & Kirkcaldy for ages 1-2.5 yrs & 2-5 yrs Birthday parties for 2-10 years Contact us: Lynda/Pamela on 0794 282 5114 doodle@doodleandsplat.co.uk www.doodleandsplat.co.uk

Carnegie Swimming Club • • •

Finished lessons but want to keep swimming?

Inspired by Glasgow 2014?

Want to be our new swimming star?

Carnegie Swimming Club, Dunfermline, would love to hear from you as we’re recruiting new members.

Email us at membership@carnegieswimmingclub.co.uk and you can find us on facebook and twitter.

www.carnegieswimmingclub.co.uk

www.familiesfife.co.uk

Issue 27 Families Fife | 11

Holiday happenings

A full timetable of active fun!

I know I know, we’ve just had a monster 7.5 weeks of holidays.

But as all you parents out there will appreciate, it’s time to look forward again to the next lot - the Autumn break as its known on the Fife Direct website. I should think that the leaves will be well

off the trees by that point, [and notably in an enormous, hedgehog friendly pile in our front garden], but here goes…what to do this autumn to keep the children entertained with lots of ideas for the October break too.

Theatres round up ÊOn Ê at Fife – Across various venues in Fife Totfest is back. Billed as a jamboree of theatre, stories, music and fun for the under sixes, Totfest returns to Fife this autumn with a series of exciting and innovative performances and interactive activities.

Running throughout October and early November, Totfest 2014 takes place in the Carnegie Hall, Adam Smith Theatre and Lochgelly Centre. Among many highlights in a diverse programme are the spellbinding storytelling and puppetry of Starbird, the enthralling interactive worlds of Adventures of Isabel, and an innovative and fun introduction to the French language in the shape of Lapin Wants Breakfast.

See advert for dates, venues and costs. www.onfife.com

ÊAdam Ê Smith, Kirkcaldy A Little Princess A show for all ages, families will love the classic A Little Princess play from the novel by Frances Hodgson Burnett. This family drama follows young Sara (Liesel Matthews) when she is forced to live in a New York boarding school after her beloved father enlists to fight in the First World War. When he is reported dead and Sara is left penniless, however, her circumstances change and she can only stay on at the school by working as a servant. It’s then that she discovers how strict Miss Minchin (Eleanor Bron), the headmistress, can be. See listings for details. Sat 20th September 11am.

Rapunzel A new take on the classic fairy tale. balletLOReNT’s Rapunzel is as much for adults as it is for children and tells the story of the parents forced to give up their child, the Witch who takes her from them, the woman the child becomes and the Prince who discovers and rescues her. Full of dark beauty, this compelling production brings together a collection of world-class collaborators; Poet Laureate Carol Ann Duffy, Doctor Who composer Murray Gold, and Michele Clapton, award winning Costume Designer for Game of Thrones. Fri 3rd October, 7pm & Sat 4th October, 2pm, £10/£8, Age 7+ Angel Shortlisted for The Writer’s Guild

12 | Families Fife Issue 27

of Great Britain, Best Play for Young Audiences 2012 and The Brian Way Award 2013, Angel is the story of Bill, who returns an old woman’s shopping bag on an afternoon when she had nothing better to do and finds her life is never the same again. Sun 26th October, 11.30am, £6.50/£4.50, Age 10+ ÊCarnegie Ê Hall THE SINGING KETTLE Fantastic Funfair Back over at the Carnegie Hall, young audiences can roll up roll up for the Singing Kettle’s most amazing adventure yet. Set in the neon-coloured world of Big Wheels, Merry-go-Rounds and Helter Skelters, join Anya, Kevin and Gary as they take a trip round the Fantastic Funfair. There are thrills and spills with games like hook the rubber duck and test o’ strength to win very special prizes; the Magical Singing Kettles.

Audience participation guaranteed! Sat 6th September, 2pm & Sunday 7th September 12pm and 3pm, £12, All Ages Big Book Tall Tales This funny piece of children’s theatre uses mime, voice and sign language to take you to a forgotten, tattered library. The Caretaker finds a large, old book, 6ft tall but discovers the story has gone – all the words have been washed away. So he starts to think of a story using colours to suggest things that might have been included.Wear your favourite colour when you go along! Sat 13th September, 11.30am, £5.50/£4.50, Age 5-9 ÊROTHES Ê HALLS Shakespeare Schools Festival Rothes Halls is delighted to mark Shakespeare’s 450th birthday by throwing him the biggest party he has ever seen with the largest Shakespeare Schools Festival to date.

www.familiesfife.co.uk

35,000 young people will take to professional stages across the UK. From Southampton to Inverness, from Londonderry to Norwich, 130 theatres will be hosting a party to remember. The Shakespeare Schools Festival is the UK’s largest youth drama festival and enables over 1,000 primary, secondary, and special schools to stage abridged Shakespeare productions in their local professional theatre.

Four schools will perform four different Shakespeare plays and promise you a wonderful evening of entertainment.Wed 29th October, 7pm, £8.75/£6.75, All Ages.

T

A full timetable of active fun!

here’s no need to get bored during the October school holidays – for active kids, there’s more than ever going on in your local leisure centre.

Fife Sports and Leisure Trust – the region’s leading provider of sports and leisure facilities – as well as having a packed term-time programme for children and young people, has a great selection of holiday activities. And, the Trust’s much-

loved Quid-a-Kid – which allows juniors, aged 17 and under, swimming and racquet sport for just £1 – is back.

Quid-a-Kid is available in the Trust’s facilities across Fife along with a fantastic range of sports and activities specially designed for kids and young people. From Tayport to Dunfermline there are options for all ages and abilities - for example, budding gymnasts, footballers, swimmers, badminton and tennis players will love the classes and discounts on offer.

Each of the Trust’s 13 centres can offer your child a great opportunity to learn a new skill and stay physically active – you’ll be amazed at the choice.

And, don’t forget – all of the Trust’s centres with swimming facilities offer the national Scottish Swimming Learn to Swim programme. The vast swimming programme offers lessons to for all ages – from babies of 4 months old up to adults – with classes designed to suit ability and confidence.

So, no matter where you are in the region, visit www.fifeleisure.org.uk for a full activities schedule for a guaranteed active school year. ÊFife Ê Council Outdoor Adventure Days The adventure weeks will provide the

Charlie and Lola come to Dundee Rep I have this little sister…

Familiar words to anyone whose familiar with the work of Lauren Child. Fans of her successful Charlie and Lola books will be delighted to hear that the loveable Charlie and Lola bring their very own style of fun to the theatre. This delightful brother and sister bring their brand new play Charlie and Lola’s Extremely New Play to Dundee for the first time.

The show follows the success of Charlie and Lola’s Best Bestest Play, which thrilled 1000s of children, including those of celebrities such as Nicole Kidman, Geri Helliwell and Simon Pegg and Charlie and Lola’s Extremely New Play has been receiving rave reviews.

Tickets are on sale at Dundee Rep Theatre’s box office 01382 223530 or on line www.dundeerep.

co.uk Dundee Rep 14 and 15 October Charlie and Lola are completely excited to be back on stage with their Extremely New Play and this time they're bringing along Sizzles the Dog. Children over the age of 3 will love this extra special, brand new show, written just for them, in which everything looks and sounds just right.

Charlie and Lola’s Extremely New Play uses specially made puppets.

Adaptor Jonathan Lloyd and director Roman Stefanksi wanted the show to be familiar yet surprising, recognisable yet distinctly different. The show is presented by five puppeteers. Charlie and Lola appear as cut-out cartoon characters in the same magical world they inhabit in the books and TV series. From pink milk to party rings, everything you expect is there!  Charlie and Lola’s Extremely New Play lasts 1 hour and 15 minutes with interval and is ideal for ages 3+.

www.familiesfife.co.uk

children with fun and exciting outdoor play experiences in a natural environment.

Some of the activities will involve den building, making rope swings, building camp fires as well as other outdoor self directed play activities where the children will experience new skills which will be facilitated by experienced and qualified staff.

Week 1 - w/c 13th October to 17th October, Craigtoun Park, St. Andrews Week 2 – w/c 20th October to 24th October, Riverside Park, Glenrothes All activities will be outdoors and the children will get mucky. Please provide suitable waterproof clothing and a change of clothes, wellies, towel, packed lunch and drink.

To book your place on the outdoor adventure week please log onto www.fifedirect.org.uk/outdooradventure

ÊChildren’s Ê Forest School Club, Fife Monday 20th to Friday 24th October Genuine Forest School - Build confidence, initiative, responsibility, learn forest skills with real tools, play games, watch wildlife and more. Come and have fun. Age 6 to 13yrs. 10:00am - 4:00pm. £125 for 5 days.

Early Bird Discount - £100 for 5 days if booked by Mon 29th September. 

Watershed Productions presents the BBC Worldwide and Polka Theatre production of

based on the characters created by Lauren Child adapted by Jonathan Lloyd

Tue 14 & Wed 15 October at 11am + 1.30pm Bookings: 01382 223530 / dundeerep.co.uk Issue 27 Families Fife | 13

Out and About September 2014 Sunday 7th September Doors open Day, East Fife & St Andrews area.

www.doorsopendays.org.uk Sunday 14th September Doors open Day, Central Fife & Kirkcaldy area.

www.doorsopendays.org.uk Sunday 21st September Doors open Day, West Fife & Dunfermline area.

www.doorsopendays.org.uk Perth farmers’ market Perth Farmers’ Market takes place on the 1st Saturday of the month in King Edward Street and St John’s Place, Perth, Scotland from 9am to 2pm. There is no market in January but there are two in December, on the first and third Saturdays. There are between 40 and 45 stalls selling a variety of quality local and Scottish produce throughout the year. 10am - 2pm

www.perthfarmersmarket.co.uk Till 25th October A Century of Childhood, Methil Heritage Centre Do you remember Dinky cars, Sindy dolls, or the Rubik’s Cube? Whatever your era, join us for a trip back in time with our whistle stop tour of the decades. From the 1880s to the 1980s, we’ll use toys, books, games, costume and photographs to explore changing attitudes to children and childhood. So, why not come along and have fun re-visiting some old friends and find out a bit more about what growing up was like for your grand-parents and great-grandparents.

Till 28th September Tall Tales & Fabulous Fables Kirkcaldy Museum & Art Gallery Go adventuring at Kirkcaldy Galleries this

A GREAT DAY OUT! Pick Your Own Fruit Strawberries l Raspberries l Tayberries Gooseberries l Black/Redcurrants Pumpkins l NEW Cherries & Brambles Farm Shop & County Tearoom Ready-picked fruit & seasonal produce Home-made take-away baking l Cairnie jams & other fine foods l Indoor/Outdoor plants l Large selection of gifts & cards 6 Acre Mega Maze to explore Funyard includes: Giant bouncing pillow l Go-Kart track Sunken trampolines l Twisters l 30m flying fox l Crazy swings l Straw Bale Climbing fortress l Huge sandbox lYoung Farmers Yard (with ride on tractors) l Football pitch and other surprisesl Cairnie Cresta Run l Large picnic areal Plenty of free parking l

The Country Tearoom boasts the best homebaking in Fife!

Cupar, Fife, KY15 4QD, Tel: 01334 655610 Apr, May, Jun, Sept, Oct 10 - 5pm 7 days July & August 9.30 – 5.30pm 7 days Maze opens on 25th July

www.cairniefruitfarm.co.uk 14 | Families Fife Issue 27

Cairnie Fruit Farm & Mega Maze

C

airnie Fruit Farm & Mega Maze is the place to visit during September and October when you can reap the benefits of the wonderful summer growing season.

On sale in the farm shop will be freshly picked fruit and veg all locally produced and sourced. There is also a great selection of specialty fine foods and a fun array of books, cards and gifts.

This year the Mega Maze depicts a golfer in full swing to celebrate the Ryder Cup being held at Gleneagles in September.

October sees the return of the “Torch Light” Maze nights to coincide with many Halloween and Pumpkin Festival events.

summer and explore the fascinating world of children’s books through our colourful, interactive exhibition. Create your own fairytale ending with our giant magnetic frieze, find out what’s inside the Mystery House, test your nerve in our spooky study, or try one of the many other hands-on activities on offer in our family-friendly show.

Saturday 30th August Kirkcaldy Farmers Market, The Town Square Local produce straight from the producers.

9am - 1pm

www.fifefarmersmarket.co.uk Sunday 31 August Mary Queen of Scots Extravaganza in Kirkgate Park, Kinross Plenty of activities will take place including historical re-enactment with horses, stunts and combat and a falconry display. Kinross & District Rotary will be organising rowing boat races on Loch Leven for teams of 5 (over 16’s only), but there will also be plenty of activities for the children. 12 -5 pm

www.kleo.org.uk Every Monday Grub Club at the Kaleyard The Beveridge Park , Abbotshall Road, Kirkcaldy, Fife, KY2 5LZ Free drop in session at Kirkcaldy’s newest community garden, the Kaleyard. Growing, cooking and crafty activities each week.

4pm - 5pm. www.fifediet.co.uk/grow/the-kaleyard Every Tuesday Kids Gardening Club Broomhill Gardens, Manse Lane, Burntisland, KY3 0BJ Free drop in session for kids of all ages at the local community garden. Growing, cooking, and crafty activities each week. 3.30pm til 4.30pm

www.fifediet.co.uk/grow/broomhill-gardensand-kids-gardening-club

Cairnie also offers 20+ acres of Pick Your Own soft fruit including strawberries, raspberries, gooseberries, red/blackcurrants, tayberries, brambles, cherries and sunflowers. Don’t forget to pick up your pumpkin for the end of October. It’s a great day out in the countryside for the whole family! Finally, choose from the popular family friendly menu in the lovely newly extended indoor/outdoor tearoom which offers wholesome healthy food and boasts the best homebaking in Fife!  The farm is open 7 days a week from 105pm until November 3rd

Saturday 6th September Free Children’s Tours and Creative Waste Workshops Earthship Fife Visitor Centre, Kinghorn Loch, An interactive children’s tour around the Earthship and a workshop where you will transform everyday household waste into something creative, and probably useful!

Workshop and tour. Bring a packed lunch and enjoy spending some time at Craigencalt!

Booking Essential 01592 891884 www.sciscotland.org.uk Jack & Jill Market The Vine Conference Centre, Dunfermline 40 stalls and a large item gallery of quality nearly-new baby & kids items (0-9yrs). You can’t afford to miss it and miss out! Adults £1.50 entry - Kids FREE. 10.30am - 1.00pm / Adults £1.50 Kids FREE

www.jackandjillmarket.co.uk Saturday 6th & Sunday 7th September The Singing Kettle - Fantastic Funfair The Carnegie Hall Dunfermline See page 12 for details.

Saturday 13 September Big Book Tall Tales, Carnegie Hall Dunfermline This is an old story that takes place in a forgotten tattered library, For ages 5-9.

Saturday 20th September Family History Fair, The Rothes Halls Ancestral Voices–Researching your Family’s Military Past One of the country’s premier family history events includes five expert speakers, as well as an exhibition hall with a wide rand of displays and stalls. MAC-Fife’s Mobile Museumcan also be visited to view its WWI exhibition.

www.fifefamilyhistoryfair.org.uk Sunday 21 September West Fife Doors Open Day The Scottish Vintage Bus Museum. Free entry to museum 12.30 - 5pm

www.svbm.org.uk/events.html

www.familiesfife.co.uk

familiesfife.co.uk/whatson Tuesday 23rd - Sunday 28th September Kirkcaldy Galleries WWI Week Bookable activities will be offered throughout the week, including an artist talk with Claire Lamond on 23 September about the making of ‘Sea Front’, and a family history workshop on 24 September. Join us at the Galleries on 27-28 September where you’ll find family-friendly activities and displays highlighting Fifers who served on the Front and lived at home during the Great War. MAC-Fife’s Mobile Museum, will be on hand at the Galleries from 26 to 28 September for visitors to experience ‘Moving Stories – Fife’s Great War’.

www.onfife.com/fifesgreatwar Saturday 27th September Kirkcaldy Farmers Market, The Town Square Local produce straight from the producers.

9am - 1pm.

www.fifefarmersmarket.co.uk Monday 29th September Head in the Clouds The Carnegie Hall Dunfermline Cirrus the dog has a serious job: he has to keep watch on the sheep.Part of the Totfest season.

See page 12

Tuesday 30th September Head in the Clouds, The Lochgelly Centre see Totfest page 12

October 2014 Saturday 4th October Jack & Jill Market, Vine Conference Centre, Dunfermline 40 stalls and a large item gallery of quality nearly-new baby & kids items (0-9yrs). You can’t afford to miss it and miss out! Adults £1.50 entry - Kids FREE. 10.30am - 1.00pm / Adults £1.50 Kids FREE

www.jackandjillmarket.co.uk Perth farmers’ market King Edward Street, King Edward Street, Perth, Perthshire, PH1 5UT. 10am - 2pm.

www.perthfarmersmarket.co.uk Saturday 11th October Woodfair & Octoberfest, Cambo Estate, Kingbarns, St Andrews, Fife, KY16 8QD Workshops, activities and stalls for all the family 12 to 4pm

www.camboestate.com Sunday 12th October Clay Ovens, Cambo Estate, Kingbarns, St Andrews, Fife, KY16 8QD Make an outdoor clay bread oven using local clay, fire it with wood from the estate then bake some bread or pizza. Old clothes. From 7 years – must be accompanied by a parent 10.30-12.30 & 1.30-3.30pm / Advance booking required.

Stone Carving, Cambo Estate, Kingbarns, St Andrews, Fife, KY16 8QD Children will learn how to carve in stone and

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have something to take home. Children 6 and over – children under 12 accompanied by adult 10am-12pm, 12.30-2.30pm and 3-5pm / Advance booking required

www.camboestate.com Tuesday 14 & Thursday 16 October In A Cardboard City, St Andrews Museum Join cardboard artist Charlotte Duffy (Waste of Paint Productions) invites you to come and help her build a city entirely out of boxes. 10.30-12 noon (5-7 years) 1.30-3pm (8-12 years) / £3/2.50.

Places must be pre-booked on 01334 659380

Wednesday 15th October Kite Flight! Kirkcaldy Museum & Art Gallery Kites have been a favourite toy for hundreds of years, but did you know they have important scientific and military uses as well? War kite workshop. Places on the above workshops must be pre-booked on 01592 583206 ‘Goodies and Baddies’ St Andrews Museum Join Chatterbox Stories for tales of heroes and villains, magic and superstition! Find your superpower and help the goodies beat the baddies. Workshop places must be pre-booked on 01334 659380

Thursday 16th October Kite Flight! Methil Heritage Centre Kites have been a favourite toy for hundreds of years, but did you know they have important scientific and military uses as well? War kite workshop. MAC, Fife’s Mobile Museum, will also be at Methil Heritage Centre on 16 October from 12 noon-4pm. Families are welcome to come aboard at see the new WWI exhibition. Moving Stories-Fife’s Great War. 1.30-3pm (8-12 years) Places on the above workshops must be prebooked on 03451 555 555

Saturday 18th October Design a Paper Doll, Methil Heritage Centre Paper dolls have been a popular children’s toy since first being manufactured in large quantities in the early 1800’s. Doll making. Wear old clothes. 5-10 years 2.30-4pm / Places on the above workshops must be pre-booked on 03451 555 555

Sunday 19th October Old MacDonald had a Farm The Carnegie Hall Dunfermline Old MacDonald had a farm E-I-E-I-O.But Old MacDonald’s animals have gone missing!Can you help a friendly scientist and his amazing time machine get them back for him?

Monday 20th to Friday 24th October Children’s Forest School Club, Fife Genuine Forest School - Build confidence, initiative, responsibility, learn forest skills with real tools, play games, watch wildlife and more.

Come and have fun.

See page 12-13 for more info.

Tuesday 21st October

Poppy Paper Chains Kirkcaldy Museum & Art Gallery In this workshop children will learn how the poppy became one of the most recognised symbols of the sacrifice of war and will make their own poppy paper chains. Places on the above workshops must be pre-booked on 01592 583206

Wednesday 22nd October Artists Assemble! Create Your Own 3-D Superhero Methil Heritage Centre Action Man to Wonder Woman Visit the Century of Childhood exhibition to see toys inspired by some of the world’s most famous fictional crime fighters and defenders of the peace. Workshop Wear old clothes. 2-4pm (7-12 years) / Places on the above workshops must be pre-booked on 03451 555 555

Thursday 23rd October Shipwright Science, Kirkcaldy Museum & Art Gallery Hands-on science activities and a boat building challenge will explore buoyancy, density, and ship design inspired by WW1. Places on the above workshops must be pre-booked on 01592 583206.

Saturday 25th October The Adventures of Isabel The Carnegie Hall Dunfermline The Adventures of Isabel for children between 2 and 8. See page 12 for more info.

Kirkcaldy Farmers Market The Town Square, Town Square, Kirkcaldy, Fife, KY1 1XW. Local produce straight from the producers. 9am - 1pm.

www.fifefarmersmarket.co.uk/kirkcaldyfarmers-market.html Sunday 26th October The Adventures of Isabel, The Lochgelly Centre, see page 12-13.

Angel, The Adam Smith Theatre Kirkcaldy Funny and heart-warming new play by Theatre Hullabaloo about childhood and ageing for audiences aged 10 years and above.

Monday 27th & Tuesday 28th October The Snow Queen, The Alhambra Theatre Dunfermline.

The brand-new musical, The Snow Queen, a captivating and heart-warming story of family, friendship and the triumph of love over evil.

www.alhambra.co.uk Tuesday 28th October Tiny, The Carnegie Hall Dunfermline Part of the Totfest programme, full of magical sounds, lights and textures, TiNY takes our very youngest audience members on a fantastical journey full of wonder and surprises! Suitable for babies aged under 2.

Whilst every care has been taken to compile the Out and About section with accuracy, please remember to check with the venue before making plans to avoid any disappointment as Families magazine is put together weeks in advance of actual publication.

Issue 27 Families Fife | 15

ON at Fife’s ON at5th Fife’s Festival 5th Festival for Young for Children Young Children All tickets All£6.50/£4.30 tickets £6.50/£4.30

Distributors required

Ipdip Theatre Ipdip Head Theatre in The Head Clouds in TheAge Clouds 0 – 4 Age 0 – 4 Mon 29 Sept Mon 11am 29 Sept & 1pm 11am I Carnegie & 1pm I Hall Carnegie Hall Tue 30 Sept Tue 11am 30 Sept & 1pm 11am I Lochgelly & 1pm I Centre Lochgelly Centre

We always need reliable delivery drivers to get Families mags to where they should be – in the heart of the community. Routes in:

The Adventures The Adventures of Isabelof Age Isabel 2 – 5 Age 2 – 5 Smallpetitklein Smallpetitklein Sat 25 Oct Sat 10.30am 25 Oct&10.30am 1.30pm & I Carnegie 1.30pm I Hall Carnegie Hall Sun 26 OctSun 10.30am 26 Oct&10.30am 1.30pm & I Lochgelly 1.30pm I Centre Lochgelly Centre

• Perth & Kinross • Dundee & Tayside • Cupar & East Neuk • West Fife & Villages

Starbird Age 3 – 5 Age 3 – 5 Toto Tales Toto Tales Starbird Tue 4 Nov 10.30am Tue 4 Nov&10.30am 1.30pm & I Carnegie 1.30pm I Hall Carnegie Hall Wed 5 NovWed 10.30am 5 Nov&10.30am 1.30pm & I Adam 1.30pm Smith I Adam Theatre Smith Theatre

All you need is your own vehicle and local knowledge.

Call for availability on your local route.

Tel: 01383 735938

email: editor@familiesfife.co.uk 16 | Families Fife Issue 27

Age 0Tiny – 12mth Age 0 – 12mth Replay Tiny Replay Tue 28 OctTue 10.30am, 28 Oct12.30pm, 10.30am,2.30pm 12.30pm, I Carnegie 2.30pm I Hall Carnegie Hall

Showtime Age 0 – 6 Age 0 – 6 Jango Starr Jango Starr Showtime Thur 6 NovThur 10.30am 6 Nov&10.30am 1.30pm & I Carnegie 1.30pm I Hall Carnegie Hall Lapin Wants Lapin Breakfast Wants Breakfast Age 3 – 5 Age 3 – 5 Le Petit Monde Le Petit Monde Sat 8 Nov 10.30am Sat 8 Nov&10.30am 1.30pm & I Adam 1.30pm Smith I Adam Theatre Smith Theatre Sun 9 Nov Sun 10.30am 9 Nov&10.30am 1.30pm & I Carnegie 1.30pm I Hall Carnegie Hall

01592 611101 01592 611101 01383 602302 0138301592 602302 583303 01592 583303 01592 583302 01592 583302

www.onfife.com www.onfife.com

SC415704 SCO43442 SC415704 SCO43442

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