Families Central Scotland Jan-Feb 2012

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

FREE Issue 8 Jan/Feb 2012

In This Issue

• Birthday Party Feature • New Year New You • Ideas for Feb Half Term

WIN

£100 voucher towards a kids party at Springkerse Play Zone

www.familiescentralscotland.co.uk

WIN

A Sunbuster thermal blackout blind

editor@familiescentralscotland.co.uk

079302 64979

contents Welcome and contents ....................................................................2 News and local reviews.................................................................3-5

Central Scotlan

d’s really useful

Hi and welcome to issue 8 of Families Central Scotland Magazine. We hope you all had a fantastic Christmas and we wish you a very Happy New Year! This issue has some great ideas for keeping fit in the New Year as well as ideas to help look after our planet in 2012. We also have our popular birthday feature with some great ideas to help survive the all important birthday party. As always we have our useful out and about guide to family friendly events going on in the local area.

magazine for busy

families of children

age 0-12

Issue 8 Jan/Feb 2012

New year resolutions......................................................................6-7 Birthday party feature................................................................. 8-11

In This Issue

• Birthday Party Feature • New Year New You • Ideas for Feb Half Term

Parent to parent article....................................................................12 Travel and Feb half term ideas.....................................................13 Out and about.............................................................................. 14-15 WIN

£100 voucher towards a kids party at Springk erse Play Zone

WIN

A Sunbuster thermal blackout blind

www.familiescent

ralscotland.co.uk

editor@families

centralscotland.

co.uk

079302 64979

Competitions in this issue • Win a fitted Sunbuster thermal blackout blind...................................page 4 • Win £100 towards your kids party at Springkerse Play Zone Stirling............................................................................................................page 8 Check out our website at www.familiescentralscotland.co.uk as you will find extra articles there.

contact us Fiona Logan and Louise Boyle Joint Editors Families Central Scotland editor@familiescentralscotland.co.uk tel no 079302 64979 Visit us on www.familiescentralscotland.co.uk

Follow and ‘like us’ on facebook by clicking on www.facebook.com/FamCS where you will get regular updates of great events for families in your area.

If you are interested in advertising with us we are now taking bookings for our March/April issue which will be our nursery and baby feature. Deadline for art work and editorial will be 1st February so email us at editor@ familiescentralscotland.co.uk for our media pack.

Fiona & Louise the editors

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FREE

families central scotland / issue 8

Circulation 12 000 copies delivered directly to nurseries, playgroups, health centres, libraries, leisure facilities as well as selected shops, cafes and schools.

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

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

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

Hummingbird House The children at Hummingbird House Nursery & Out of School Club in Dunblane have spent the autumn months exploring and making great use of the extensive work that has been carried out to the nurseries three gardens.

With a huge outdoor space the work has been done to improve the educational experience the gardens provide giving the children the opportunity to explore and investigate a wide range of materials and enjoy physical play.

Each age specific garden has been designed to enhance and encourage the all round development of the children and provide learning opportunities for all to enjoy.

With a fabulous willow tree in the babies garden there are plenty of opportunities to develop spatial awareness, imagination, creativity as well as bringing their senses alive with differing sounds as natural elements move it. The sensory and wildlife area in the toddlers and pre-school garden has proved very popular promoting natural habitats for animals and insects and allowing the children to gain knowledge of life cycles as well as looking after the environment. The children have also been encouraged to recycle and the composting area and vegetable patch also gives the children an understanding of the cycle of food and the achievement of tasting and cooking their own vegetables.

The wooden gazebo and castle in the out of school club garden has provided a quiet haven for the children who have taken beanbags and cushions to the enclosed fortress decking where they have been reading books or listening to music. The children have also been getting very creative as part of the gazebo is made up of a lattice trellis so that the children are able to weave fabrics, material and scented plants in and out.

What a great way for all age groups to have fun and learn at the same time and this is just a sample of the outside activities at Hummingbird House. If you want to know more about what we get up to please contact Manager, Tricia Brownlee. Hummingbird House Nursery, Ramoyle, Dunblane, FK15 OBD 01786 821950 hummingbird@bertramuk.com

News from NCT Central Scotland The next Nearly New Sale is on Saturday 14th of April and we are looking for sellers. If you are interested in selling or donating items then it’s easy to get involved and a brilliant way to make a little extra cash while giving something back to the charity. For every item sold you get to keep 70% while NCT receives 30%. We will be opening the sellers registration in early February and you can download the sellers pack from our website alternatively you can e-mail us.

Learn to speak Spanish Give your child the gift of a second world language. Spanish is one of the most widely spoken languages in the world – its growing popularity in schools directly reflects its increasing importance in the world today.

Children love learning a new language and the advantages have been well documented: •Helps boost confidence •Easier to learn further languages •Enhances cultural awareness I am an experienced language teacher and will be running small classes of 4 children, at a cost of £4 per child for a 35 minute session. I also offer individual tuition. For further information, please contact Paul on 07982 812164

When:

Tuesdays & Thursdays (Starting November 2011)

Time:

Age 4-7 Years Age 8-11 Years

Where:

Scout Hall 6 Peddie Place Grangemouth FK3 9JW

Cost :

8 week block £25

3.45pm – 4.30pm 4.45pm – 5.30pm

To book a place and for further details - contact below email: emma@juniorcise.co.uk Telephone: 07842 434097 Website: http://www.juniorcise.co.uk Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/juniorcise

We are pleased to announce a change of venue for the Stirling Breastfeeding Group which is now run and funded by NCT Central Scotland. The group will now meet every Friday (starting on 13th January 2012) at the Mayfield Centre, St. Ninians, Stirling. From 10.30am-12noon. For more information about the group please phone us. As with everything we do locally you DON’T HAVE TO BE A MEMBER TO JOIN IN! NCT Central Scotland www.nctcentralscotland.org nns_centralscotland@hotmail.co.uk 0844 2436079 Contact Gail 01259 211218 forthvalley@stepaheadtuition.com

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Winter warmer for parents – The Sunbuster blind As any mum or dad will testify, getting a young child into a regular sleep pattern is the holy grail of parenting. Even once they are settled for the night there can be many nocturnal awakenings commonly associated with hunger, nappy changes and fluctuations in temperature. During the winter months the drop in temperature during the wee small hours is often the main culprit for waking little ones from their much needed slumber. Glasgow based parents Gavin and Kelly Cruickshank know only too well the trial and tribulations of getting their three young children to sleep. The Cruickshank’s have developed the innovative new Sunbuster blackout blind which as well as being safe (it has no looped cords) and easy to fit (it simply sticks to the glass), also has the added benefit of insulating the window thus making the room warmer.

For more info go to www.sunbusterblind.co.uk tel: Gavin Cruickshank 0141 237 1224

* * WIN A SUNBUSTER THERMAL BLACKOUT BLIND * *

To enter the prize draw to win this fantastic blind that will be made to fit your window.

Simply email editor@familiescentralscotland.co.uk put Sunbuster comp in the subject line and remember to give your contact details. Good luck!

Closing date for competition 29th February

Undetected eye conditions can disrupt your children’s education

Eyes stop developing at the delicate age of eight so it is essential for us as parents to protect our children’s eyes. Eye conditions are often undetected and as many as 1 in 5 will have an unnoticed eye condition often caused by sitting too close to the television or holding reading books too near.

As a mum of four, I understand the importance of keeping your kiddies bright eyed and bushy tailed. Their eyesight is precious and can determine how well they perform both inside and outside of school. Your child may be struggling to read from the board or even to see the goal posts in a game of footie. This type of strain can not only trigger headaches and fatigue but may also cause long-term damage to their eye sight. Sadly, schools no longer hold eye test screening for our children so I have made it a priority to provide free examinations to all children under the age of 16… yes, despite what they may think, they’re still children at 15. Let’s teach our children the importance of healthy eyes by testing them at least once every year and improve quality of sight for the next generation. For more information or to get your or your childs eyes tested contact Mary Docherty, Ochil Eyes Opticians, 105 High Street, Tillicoultry 01259 752755

Stagecoach Stirling hits the right note!

Stagecoach is the worlds largest part time performing art school for children aged 4 to 18, with over 600 schools in the UK. Since its beginning four years ago, Stagecoach Stirling has been dedicated to providing quality education in the performing arts disciplines of Drama, Dance and Singing. Next year, the children of Stagecoach Stirling will take part in the event ‘Voice In A Million’. This campaign strives to achieve awareness of the plight of millions of children worldwide that are orphaned, abandoned or separated from their parents. The project has previously been featured on National Television, released a string of download singles worldwide and continuously appeared on numerous Radio Stations and in the National Press. The Scottish regional event for ‘Voice In A Million’ will take place at the Edinburgh Playhouse on Thursday 10th May 2012. Stagecoach Stirling is based at St Columba’s church, Park Terrace, Stirling and runs on Saturdays from 2pm until 5.30pm. For further information please contact the Principal Kirsten Campbell on Tel: 0131 337 7774 or email: stirling@stagecoach.co.uk

The journey to reading success The start of a new year makes us think about new beginnings and tackling problems that have hindered progress in the past. Parents or Grandparents who feel helpless when their child or grandchild struggles with dyslexia or any reading disorder can look forward with hope, thanks to the innovative treatment provided by the Stirling Cellfield Centre. Cellfield is a unique approach to reading disorders, a scientifically proven treatment which was pioneered in Australia and brought to Scotland by former Headteacher, Fiona Macdiarmid. Fiona also runs the successful Kip McGrath Education Centre in Stirling and, since starting Cellfield two years ago, has seen great results in the clients who have undergone Cellfield. “We have successfully treated nearly 100 clients – both children and adults – and I have been amazed by some of the gains achieved. I’m delighted so many of our Cellfield clients feel they have broken through the barrier which was holding their learning back. This has also impacted positively on their confidence and self esteem.” The Cellfield treatment is carried out over just two weeks, with a 10 weeks follow on programme of reading to ensure progress is sustained.

Cellfield Reading Matters (Scotland) Ltd Unit 4 Scion House, Stirling University Innovation Park, Stirling FK9 4NF 01786 447527 info@cellfieldscotland.com

Arnhall Day Nursery We have been established in the beautiful rural surroundings of the Keir Estate, on the outskirts of Dunblane, for over 20 years. We operate in partnership with Stirling Council enabling pre-school grant funding to be used with us.

Curriculum for Excellence and Pre-Birth to Three planning documents are followed and children from birth up to 5 years receive high quality childcare by qualified and fully trained staff.

New from February - nutritional lunches and snacks will be provided by our in-house chef enabling your child to

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experience a variety of homemade foods.

Open all year round between 8am and 6pm we have ample car parking facilities for drop-off and picking up. Children who come to Arnhall will experience playtime in our fabulous gardens and outdoor classroom and enjoy walks through the woodland on the Estate. For further details or to arrange a visit please contact the Nursery direct on 01786 822391 Arnhall Day Nursery, The Keir Estate, Dunblane, FK15 9NU www.arnhallnursery.co.uk

families central scotland / issue 8

Traditional customer values for the 21st century That’s what Stirlingshire based couple, Alistair and Kirsteen Scott, had in mind when they opened The Flooring Studio in Bridge of Allan in October 2010.

A welcome change to out-of-town carpet warehouses.

The emphasis is on excellent customer service and value for money. Every budget is catered for from a small piece of bathroom vinyl to a complete new build.

The Flooring Studio operate their own teams of specialist installers of carpet and vinyl; wood and laminate; Marmoleum; Karndean; Amtico and Naturals such as a sisal and coir. There are a selection of glowing customer testimonials on their website www.theflooringstudios.com All the UK’s leading flooring manufacturers (Brintons; Axminster; Crucial Trading; Cormar; Westex; Ryalux; Amtico; Karndean and Caledonian Hardwood Flooring to name but a few) are on display in the beautiful showroom on Henderson Street or alternatively you can arrange a home consultation.

The Flooring Studio is a member of Greendale, the largest independent flooring buying group in the UK. The group buying power is such that they can sell quality wool blend carpets, manufactured in the UK, from just £14.99 per square metre. They are so confident about their pricing that they even offer their customers a ‘price pledge’.

The Flooring Studio operates a complimentary Sample Loan Service to ensure their customers are entirely happy with their selection prior to placing their order.

You can find out more at www.theflooringstudios.com The Flooring Studio, 82 Henderson Street, Bridge of Allan 01786 833383

Donaldson’s - great education for children who are deaf or have communication difficulties When your child is diagnosed with communication difficulties or a syndrome that will affect their learning, finding the right nursery or school is essential. Donaldson’s School in Linlithgow educates and cares for children who are deaf or have communication difficulties, including many who have a diagnosed syndrome or condition. As the school is a Grant Aided Special School, pupils are referred by their local authority, funded jointly with the Scottish Government. The school offers full support and guidance throughout the application process.

Many of the pupils have a diagnosed syndrome (including Waardenburg, Feingold) but Donaldson’s also caters for children who have Profound and Multiple Learning Difficulties. This includes children with a range of conditions including Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Smith Magenis Syndrome (SMS), Angelman Syndrome (AS), Severe Language Difficulties, Social and Communication Difficulties and Verbal Dyspraxia. Ensuring the right education for each child is important and the school carries out assessments to provide an individual programme tailored for each pupil by our interdisciplinary team of expert staff.

Donaldson’s School is holding an Information Day for Parents and Professionals on Saturday 25 February from 9.30am – 1.30pm, you will have the opportunity to ask questions and have a tour of the school.

Donaldson’s School, Preston Road, Linlithgow, West Lothian, EH49 6HZ Call - 01506 841900 www.donaldsons.org.uk

Creche Matters!

Creche Matters! is a registered charity based in Falkirk and has been operating for 16 years. We are run by an experienced Board of Directors who ensure we offer a high quality care service.

Our qualified and experienced staff provide a wide range of childcare services for children from 6 weeks to 12 years in the Falkirk area.

These services include respite care, shoppers creche and day care when we can accomodate. We also offer a fantastic wedding creche service and outreach creches for people organising events who want to encourage people to come along. Please contact us for an informal chat to find out more.

Fiona Grant, Manager. 01324 639896 creche.matters@btconnect.com

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

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

• Open all year round from 7.30am to 6.00pm • 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

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New Year Resolutions

2012- What will your New Year resolutions be?

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fter all the excesses of Christmas, January is a great time to start afresh and make plans for the New Year. Families Central Scotland have asked some local business for their ideas to give you some suggestions for keeping you and your family fit and healthy and top tips for saving energy, not just saving our planet but saving you money too. Families Central Scotland wish you a very happy and peaceful New Year.

Smart Money Mum A New Year Budget – A New You!

It’s 2012 and the year of the Olympics.

Will you win the gold medal for being a champion savvy saver this year? Here are a few New Years tips to help you cross the finishing line first.

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

Detailing all of your spending allows you to look back at the end of each month and see where the money went; you might be surprised at how much money was wasted!

2. BOOK NOW. If you’re lucky enough to be planning a trip abroad in the summer, book as far ahead as you can for up to 70% flight and rail savings. Start a family savings jar now just for holiday spending. 30 weeks until your holiday, at £10 per week that’s £300 in the jar.

3. LOSE WEIGHT. If slimming is on your list of New Years’ Resolutions, then it could come with a cash bonus. Spending just £5 a day on lunch while at work, adds up to a whopping £1715 per working year. Make your own sandwiches, guaranteeing a healthy choice and big savings.

4. STOP SMOKING. The ultimate New Year’s resolution is also the biggest money saver. At £7 a pack, quitting a 20-a-day habit will put an amazing £4000 back in your pocket over the course of 2012.

5. PLAN AHEAD. Set aside time during the week to browse what’son listings and find plenty of fab FREE events. Pack a lunch and you could be enjoying family days out during the year for virtually nothing!

What will you be doing to save the planet in 2012 Sustainable resolutions for the New Year

The Christmas Season is a time for enjoyment and relaxation. However, it can also be a time where huge amounts of household waste can accumulate, thanks to gifts, cards, decorations, and copious amounts of food and packaging.

So what can be done to deal with this waste?

Recycle: Recycle all you can.

Unwanted gifts and other items that you no longer need can easily be passed onto others or donated to charity shops, jumble sales, and raffles etc... You can also recycle children’s toys, clothes and equipment at www.goodgreenfun.co.uk Visit www.zerowastescotland.org.uk for more information on recycling in your area.

Love Food, Hate Waste: large amounts of food are bought and wasted during the holiday period. Planning your shopping and getting creative with leftovers is a great way to reduce food waste. Visit www.wasteawarelovefood. org.uk for excellent tips and recipes.

Stop the Drop: Do you want to reduce the amount of unwanted mail you receive? Visit www.stop-the-drop.org. uk for 5 easy ways to reduce unwanted mail.

Want to help promote these ideas? Then email donna@ forthenvironmentlink.org for more information about Forth Environment Link’s Volunteering opportunities. Phone on 01786 449215 Visit our website on www.forthenvironmentlink.org Wishing you a happy, and waste free, Christmas and New Year from all at Forth Environment Link.

Good Green Fun

Wishing you a super-saver year.

Nicole Diamond is founder of The Jack & Jill Market where Smart Mums Sell and Save

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familiescentral centralscotland scotland/ /issue issue84 families

Falkirk Council’s Waste watchers scheme Over 1,200 Falkirk householders and school pupils have taken up the war on food waste with Waste Watchers since May. Here are 5 of their top tips to help you make pocket savings and enjoy less food waste in 2012: • Buy larger meat packs and freeze in smaller quantities (Glynis from Carron) • Think carefully about buying ‘buy 1 get 1 free’ or other bulk purchases, unless you are sure you or someone you know can use it (Anne from Falkirk) • Make soup – you can use up most things in your fridge (Jennifer from Denny) • Cooked veg added to mashed potatoes with grated cheese heated through makes a tasty snack (Rena from Shieldhill) • Try letting the children make something with leftovers; they usually start eating them, which is less waste (Julie from Grangemouth) Trim your shopping bills in 2012 with Waste Watchers! If you live in the Falkirk Council area you can take the Waste Watchers Challenge and win a free goody bag when you register. Email us at waste.watchers@falkirk.gov.uk. And visit our web site on www.falkirk.gov.uk/ wastewatchers

Christmas can leave both our waistbands and houses bulging We can’t help with the New Year diet but we can help with your spring clearout! Good Green Fun, a Stirling based not-for-profit social enterprise, specialises in recycling children’s items.

The organisation aims to provide a source of high quality but affordable second hand children’s toys, clothes, prams and equipment to local families, whilst reducing unnecessary waste in the Forth Valley area.

Good Green Fun relies entirely on donations from the public, so why not recycle those unwanted Christmas presents and help raise some money for local children’s charities this spring? A collection service is available upon request.

New Year Resolutions Or why not visit the shop in the Stirling Enterprise Park (near Aldi). It stocks many of the most popular brands and all donations are thoroughly checked by trained staff, so you can shop in the knowledge that all products are safe and of high quality. It even has a play corner where your little ones can play while you browse. For directions and more information, please visit www.goodgreenfun.co.uk or call 01786 849216.

to be active with your family.

We have swimming pools, sports hall, climbing wall, ice rink, fitness studios, gym and outdoor pitches.

Get active with your family and Active Stirling this year! Find out more at www.activestirling.org. uk or follow us on Facebook.

Love food? Hate Waste?

Want to spread the word about recycling and Waste Prevention?

Forth Environment Link are recruiting Volunteers for their Forth Valley Zero Waste Volunteer Scheme

New Year New You – keeping you and your kids fit and healthy

Volunteers work within their local communities and throughout Forth Valley, promoting Love Food, Hate Waste; Stop the Drop; Home Composting; and recycling campaigns.  Full training is provided, with certificate on completion  Travel expenses paid  Experience working within an established Environmental Organisation.

Active Stirling run a huge range of activities for all the family across all of Stirling’s Communities. We have programmes for babies, preschool children, children, young people and adults. These run at our flagship facility The Peak as well as across facilities all over Stirling so there will be an activity for you near you.

Our pre-school programmes provide kids with fun sports and activities that develop their FUNdamental movement skills required throughout their life.

We also run an Active Kids programme during term time and in the evenings with loads of great fun sports and activities for kids to enjoy.

Activities include traditional sports like athletics, football and basketball as well as adventure sports like canoeing and climbing. For those kids that want to keep active but away from the sports environment we also run dance classes and fitness classes for kids including zumba and kids combat!

For adults we have loads on offer including fitness classes, gym, sports classes as well as walking groups.

Whether you want to take part in formal activities or just want to come along and take part in an activity at your own pace then The Peak is the place

Contact Donna Rodgers on 01786 449215 or donna@forthenvironmentlink.org

The Virtual Gastric Band is in your area!

Junior-cise Giving children the opportunity to get regular exercise in a safe environment has many documented benefits for their health, happiness and development. Equally as important is making exercise fun, which, as we all know, is vital to keeping young children interested !!

“Do you want to get your own “pocket dynamos” away from those TV’s, computers and games consoles and channel all that unspent energy into getting fit and having fun? Then join me at Junior-cise in getting them active !”

Class Sessions include activities such as Mini Combat, Mini Circuits and even Fun & Games.

Classes are split into two groups... ages 4-7 years old and ages 8-11 years old and will be held over a 8 week block per session, costing £25, that build on fun, skill, development and fitness. Check Website for details at www.juniorcise.co.uk or call Emma on 07842 434097.

Licensed Hypno-Band Practitioner

www.hypnoband.com Like any medical or therapy procedure there can be no definite guarantees. Even a surgeon cannot guarantee that an actual gastric band will work. However, the virtual gastric band has been proven to be effective in aiding significant weight loss. It should be noted that it is YOU that holds the key to losing weight.

-

Janey McArthur D Hyp. MIAPH

What if you could have all the benefits of a Surgical Gastric Band, without the surgery and cost? Well now you can!

By using the Hypno-­‐Band hypnotherapy system we create a state of mind where you will believe you actually have a Gastric Band fitted! You will eat smaller portions and feel full. The Hypno-­‐Band system is a long term solution to your weight problems. Contact us today for full details.

McArthur Hypnotherapy, Menstrie. www.mcarthur-­‐hypnotherapy.co.uk 07762 498517 / 01259 760040

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Birthday party Feature

It’s Party Time!

D

ID SOMEONE SAY party? Yes, I’m afraid so. One thing’s as sure as eggs is eggs your child WILL have another birthday in the next year. It’s Families to the rescue - we’ve put on our party hats to give you some top tips and help you find the best suppliers around to ensure your ‘do’ is one they’ll talk about, until at least next year...

Before you start

It’s worth bearing in mind the differing needs, interests and numbers of particular age groups. Don’t feel the party has to last all afternoon - around two hours is enough, before everyone gets tired and emotional (not least the host parents). As a guide: One and two year-olds aren’t yet ready for a big affair. Most parents opt for a family gettogether or a not too big buffet with a handful of friends with similar aged children. Enjoy it while you can - it’s a doddle to organise and sociable for the adults (it has been known for babies to sleep right through while the grown ups catch up over nibbles, fingers crossed).

Alternatively party professionals like Jo Jingles are perfect for 3 months to 5 years (see page 10 for more info on Jo Jingles).

Three year-olds need planned activities. Name badge them on arrival then capture their imagination with simple ‘circle time’ singing and clapping games, or ‘dancing’ (ie jumping up and down to music). Balloons burst and it can all end in tears - hang them high as decorations rather than introducing them as playthings.

The ideal guestlist for this age is around 8-12 children in a venue where they feel familiar usually your home (sorry about that!)

Four to six year-olds enjoy joining in with traditional party games, such as Simon Says,

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Musical Bumps/Statues, Pass the Parcel, What’s the Time Mr Wolf and musical chairs/ cushions. Allow space and time too for simply zipping around for a burst of unstructured play (which is where you’ll be thankful you blew up all those balloons). Plenty of engaging games and giggles keep things rolling, and if you’re hiring help we suggest – Enjoy-a-ball, Jo-jingles, Paint Pot Stop, Play Zone, Rocking Rascals and Unique and Bespoke Events(see pages 10+11 for more details). A maximum of 20 guests at this age is about right.

Seven to nine year-olds are ready for more concentration and involvement in the party entertainment. Most are now old enough and skilled enough for arts and crafts (making their own goodie bag filler at the same time, which is jolly handy). We suggest Play Pots(see page 10 for more details) which my kids have loved and they will do everything for you – Fantastic! Alternatively, dancing, circus skills, drama or a team treasure hunt are good ways of harnessing energy if you fail to plan they’re likely to fall back on that old favourite - “who can scream the loudest?”

Ages 10+ and this worldly-wise lot are unlikely to want Mummy and Daddy embarrassing them by donning a paper hat and insisting on joining in (save it for when they’re reaching their teens - it’ll be SO much more fun for you). They’ll be wanting to do something special, such as bowling, karting, a mini disco in the living room, or a visit to the cinema – we love the Macrobert (Stirling) and The Hippodrome (Bo’ness), they are great value for money.

Alternatively, a good bet is a jaw-dropping magic show, particularly when they can ‘help’.

Hopefully too, by this age they won’t harangue the magician with “I know how you did that”, as I overheard recently.

families central scotland / issue 8

Planning your party

Crowd control: entertainers Bubbles, puppets, drama, music, ‘make’ party or magician? A good entertainer will bring your party to life and keep the children enthralled while you enjoy the fun from a safe distance.

While there are parents who think nothing of timetabling two hours of games, entertaining Other People’s Children is not a breeze, which is where expert help is well worth the investment.

TIP: Children’s entertainers generally have vast experience and contacts which you can tap into. Ask them about local venues for hire, a realistic timetable and suitable prizes as well as the entertainment itself. Find out their preferred age group, and the maximum number of children they will cope with - too many and you’ll not get the best out of them.

Write down everything you’ve agreed together so there is no doubt on the day.

Birthday party Feature Families favourite party entertainers

Fun Art and Craft Sessions

Enjoy-a-ball fun and creative games, 4 -9 years www.enjoy-a-ball.com Claire (Stirling) 07793 545180, Chris (Falkirk) 07912 946013

for children aged 18mths to 10yrs

Jo Jingles the music and movement experience, 3 months-5 years www.jo-jingles.com/ stirlingarea Aileen 0141 416 0405 Paint Pot Stop art and craft parties, 18 months-10 years www.thepaintpotstop.co.uk Ailene 0797 352 1385

Kate, the winner of last years Play Zone competition, had a fantastic 4th birthday party

Rocking Rascals party entertainers, 4 years-8 years www.rockingrascals.co.uk Emma 07818 687066 Unique and Bespoke Events all parties catered for, will provide caterers, magicians, DJs, bands and the cake, Amber 07706 155578

Take them out venues

It might feel less imaginative than an organised bunfight at yours, but do you really have the time, energy and creativity to decorate your house as a fairy or superhero den, then clear it all up four hours later? Thought not, happily there are plenty of places where all you have to do is pay the per-head charge and the guests will be entertained and fed, leaving you to return to your quiet, tidy house afterwards. Try childfriendly restaurants, bowling alleys, go-karting, indoor playcentres, sports clubs, the zoo, a pottery painting studio or cinema.

TIP: Book well ahead. There are only so many party groups venues can accommodate at any given time - you don’t want to be scratching around at the last minute and end up having to book ‘second best’.

Families favourite - take them out venues Hippodrome cinema Bo’ness www.falkirk.gov. uk/hippodrome 01324 508850 Play Pots create your own masterpiece, softplay, food and party bag www.playpotsceramics. co.uk -01786 471755 Macrobert cinema Stirling www.macrobert.org/ cinema Springkerse View Play Zone 1-10 years, softplay, party bag, games, facepainting and food www.springkerseview.co.uk 01786 446092

A great idea when your child has a particular interest, themes can be explored in many different ways. How about a drama, musical, circus or magic party, a sports party; or get crafty making bags, jewellery, cookies, or print t-shirts to match the theme.

TIP: Take the theme throughout the party - print off related pictures from

Top tips

It’s all in the timing for little children, 11am-1pm or 12-2pm are best. Most of them have been up since six and they’re past their best by the afternoon. For older children a lunchtime slot or mid afternoon start will work.

Liaise with parents whose children have birthdays around the same time. If you both book the same day for a party, the guest list will be tricky. Joining forces is a much better idea you can share the costs and the hassle.

Keep the food simple and don’t over cater.

Most children are too excited to have a big appetite. Limit the junk food and remember some children may be vegetarian or have a food intolerance.

Sleepovers: come midnight, you’ll be regretting it... Planning ahead is KEY. Read our ‘been there, done that’ parent’s guide: go to www. familiesonline.co.uk and type ‘successful sleepovers’ into the search box.

Whatever you do, it’s important you enjoy that celebration too! So we wish you all happy fun filled and low stress birthday celebrations this year. If you don’t have a birthday in January/ February make sure you keep this magazine somewhere safe for when you do. On the next 2 pages you will find some valuable details from some of Families Central Scotland’s favourite local party providers.

For even more ideas for your kids party Visit our fantastic website www. familiescentralscotland.co.uk you will find our Central Scotland Children’s Party Guide in our local directory bursting with more great party ideas!!!!

Unique

Bespoke Events

&

Affordable Style With Priceless Memories is a Guarantee

Events, Parties and Wedding Planning Unique balloons for every occassion from newborn to 100 Tailored Packages to suit every individuals needs and budgets For Enquiries Please Contact Amber Rennie

Email: uniqueandbespokeevents@gmail.com

Tel: 07706155578

Jo Jingles Birthday Party!

Make your Child’s party truly memorable by inviting Jo Jingles What to expect

Dunblane Centre party venue www.dunblanecentre.co.uk 01786 824224

Themed parties

the web as wall decorations, ask the guests to dress up with a prize for the best home-made hat/costume.

valid 1.1.12 - 29.2.12

Percussion Instruments Singing Dancing Party Games Different packages available inc. balloons, stickers and prizes

For more details call Aileen on 0141 416 0405 jojinglesstirling@live.co.uk www.jojingles.com/stirlingarea

9

Birthday party Feature

Bright ideas for parties What to do for their next birthday? Parties come in all shapes and sizes, just like the demands of our children. I hope our parties feature on the centre pages gave you some top tips and ideas! Families Central have asked some of our fantastic local party providers to tell us what services they will provide you with for your child’s birthday! So put your feet up with a warm cuppa and read what’s on offer from the professionals, who will take the stress out of that important celebration allowing you to enjoy it as much as your child!!

Enjoy- a-ball parties

If your child is full of beans then let them run off their energy with an Enjoy-a -ball party. Winners of the What’s on 4 Little Ones Best Kids Party Award 2010, Enjoy-a-ball parties are great fun for kids and hassle free for parents. Lots of fun and creative games guaranteed to capture your child’s imagination. Invite up to 25 kids for one set cost. Our expertise in children’s sports coaching, together with our fun-loving nature, makes us the ideal party facilitator to make your child’s day happy, memorable and stress free for mums and dads. Suitable for boys and girls age 4-9.

Call 08452 26 26 94 or Claire Beattie 07793 545180 (Stirling area), Chris Allen 07912 946013(Falkirk area) www.enjoy-a-ball.com

Jo Jingles!

Tired of planning parties? Weary of making up programmes? Why not invite Jo Jingles along to your child’s birthday party and take the stress out of the day. Jo Jingles will plan the programme, bring all the equipment and run your party – you only need to think about the food and the party bags. Don’t take our word for it – here’s what one customer said: “Aileen is great at bringing a party together and had everyone joining in from the very youngest (under 1) to the eldest (my 81 year old nan). … it was easy to just sit back and enjoy the party with my daughter….can’t recommend a Jo Jingles party enough!”

Contact me for further details and see if we can make your child’s birthday more enjoyable for you!

For more information or to book a party call Aileen 0141 416 0405 www.jojingles.com/stirlingarea

Play Pots

Looking for a fun filled yet stress free party? Then a Play Pots Party is the one for you! A birthday party at Play Pots is so much fun – the children create their very own painted masterpiece (which they take away that day) and burn off some steam in the softplay before sitting down to enjoy some tasty treats. Each party lasts 1 1/2 hours and we can cater for a party of 8 up to 30 children.

Prices start from £11.50 per child (includes a party bag), with many different party packages available to choose from we can tailor the party to suit your needs and budget. Got a theme – no problem just let us know! We do all the hard work and the tidying up afterwards, so all you need to do is bring the cake then sit back, relax and enjoy a coffee in our cafe!

158 Drip Road, Stirling FK8 1RR 01786 471755 playpotsceramics@hotmail.com www.playpotsceramics.co.uk

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familiescentral centralscotland scotland/ /issue issue84 families

Rocking Rascals

Rocking Rascals deliver dazzling, fun-filled parties uniquely tailored for you. Our fully-trained team of highly energetic and lively entertainers manage a whirlwind of games, party-tunes and dances, ensuring even the quietest children have the best of times.

Our service includes invitations, colourful table settings, premium party favours and engaging activities, which sets us apart from the average children’s event.The party begins with a mini makeover just to get us all in the party mood, and then we will groove away on the dance floor and play some fun games also. When we need a break we will move to the birthday buffet table and get our energy back for the big finale – the fashion parade/ dance show.

For more details, or to book your party, call Emma on 07818 687066 or email parties@rockingrascals.co.uk www.rockingrascals.co.uk

Springkerse View Play Zone

The Play Zone is suitable for children aged 1-10. Parties can be tailored to individual needs. For £7.99 per child you get 2 hours of fun in the Play Zone, children’s party food, party bag, balloons, birthday cake and drinks for the kids. If you book a VIP party at £9.99 per child you will also get party games, facepainting and invitations.

For a £50 supplement on a Saturday and Sunday morning you can have exclusive use of the Play Zone for your party.

Whilst the kids are in the Play Zone mum and dad can relax, have a drink and a bite to eat whilst the children play. Enter our competition in this issue of Families to win £100 towards your kids party at the Play Zone (see page 8). The Play Zone, Springkerse Business Park, Stirling FK7 7XH 01786 446092 springkerseview.stirling@belhavenpubs.net

The Hub

It’s Party Time!!!! Whether deciding on the perfect gift for the birthday boy/ girl or needing advice on the must-have party bag fillers we can take the hassle out of Party Planning. At The Hub we know what kids want and have a great selection of big brand toys, including TOP Model, LEGO, YooHoo & Friends & Moshi Monsters at birthday present prices. If you just can’t decide why not take advantage of our Personalised Gift Voucher service, you tell us how much and who for and we take care of the rest. Our party bag service is ideal for busy parents, where you can simply pick the party bag design, contents and arrange a collection date. We take care of the rest for you, so you can concentrate on arranging the party.

We also offer a convenient online service and can even arrange to gift wrap the birthday gift with paper from our great retro

Birthday party Feature kids range via our website www.thehubdirect.co.uk You can then choose to have the present delivered straight to your door, or arrange to pick up your order with our Free Collect at Store Service! The Hub, 7 High Street, Dunblane 01786 825933

The Paint Pot Stop

The Paint Pot Stop sessions let you and your child experiment together to create a unique masterpiece and not worry about the mess! We will help stimulate and encourage your child’s development using texture, colour, expression, lots of fun and imagination. Your art and craft experience with us at The Paint Pot Stop will introduce you to different materials and methods of using them. Each week we set a different theme to make sure we use art to help your child develop their confidence, hand-eye co-ordination, visual communication, social interaction and fine motor skills.

And it’s not just about art and craft. We link our art themes with stories, songs and games, which helps your child develop their appreciation of all the arts and crafts through fun. Our parties are tailored to the individual girl or boy and completely hassle free for mum and dad – parties can be in your house, garden or in a local hall! Call Ailene 0797 352 1385 info@thepaintpotstop.co.uk www. thepaintpotstop.co.uk

Unique and Bespoke Events Unique and Bespoke is an Exciting new company that has just arrived in the Forth Valley. We specialise in Parties, Event planning and Wedding Planning making your event flawless with attention to detail. Unique and Bespoke Events aim to take all the stress away from your special day.

Donaldson’s School Information Day A day for parents and professionals Saturday 25 February 2012, 9:30am - 1:30pm

Situated in Linlithgow, Donaldson’s School is Scotland’s national school for pupils who are deaf or have communication difficulties.

Our Information Day provides a perfect opportunity to find out more about our wide range of services and offers professionals an opportunity for CPD: Meet our specialist staff team and learn about our unique environment of inclusive communication Attend workshops covering topics including Educational Audiology, Speech & Language Therapy and Learning and Teaching Find out about our flexible range of places, funded by local authorities including nursery, primary, secondary and residential Enjoy a full tour of the modern facilities and refreshments

Please register your place in advance by contacting Kim Pedder, School Secretary, on 01506 841900 or email kpedder@donaldsons.org.uk

www.donaldsons.org.uk

Preston Road, Linlithgow, West Lothian EH49 6HZ Donaldson’s is a Grant Aided Special School support by the Scottish Government. Donaldson’s (Governors of Donaldson’s Trust) is a registered charity (SCO17417)

Unique and Bespoke Events birthday parties are something not to be missed. No party too big or small. Every party is tailored to your needs and budget whether it be a baby shower, 1st birthday an extravagant 50th or an understated 100th , we aim to produce a first class service. Not only do we provide balloons, our in house team can also provide caterers, magicians, DJ’s, bands and specially designed bespoke birthday cakes. We take care of your design and decorating needs at your venue, so your special day can be stress free.

Contact Amber Rennie on 07706155578 for a free consultion today.

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parent to parent H elen and Gerard live in Dunblane with their 2 children Jake 8 and Zoe 4. Together they run The Hub in Dunblane, a true family business which the children are a big part of too! The Hub is a fantastic shop specialising in total family entertainment! To find out more about The Hub visit them at www.thehubdirect.co.uk

Favourite night out without the kids We try to go straight out after we finish work, and as we open so late it can be a challenge to go too far. Our favourite place to head to is The Sherrifmuir Inn, particularly if we get a table near to the fireplace in winter. It’s also great for a drink and just to feel that you are a million miles from anywhere.

Why you like living where you do?

We chose to move to Dunblane because it has a great reputation for schools, and a real child friendly feel to it. There are great open spaces, with a lot of greenbelt (at the moment) and a real independent High Street. It’s a really nice town to bring children up in.

Best planet saving tip We recently bought a plug adapter that all of our gadgetry goes into. Now with one press of a button on our TV remote it switches them all off stand-by. It’s saved us a fortune and it’s great for the environment. It cost us less than £5 - brilliant!

Favourite shop Apart from The Hub (which as it’s a toy shop is understandably our kids favourite) we love going to farm shops. We go to lots around but our current favourite is Gloagburn near Perth.

No parent should be without Gadgetry – Our kids (like us) love technology and whilst they are happy with more traditional activities modern technology is great for long car journeys or flights. It’s one of the reasons we rent DS and Wii games weekly too, so that kids that want to try out new games can do, without parents spending a fortune!

Favourite park The wee park next to Mill Row car park in Dunblane and river walk to feed the ducks.

It’s so handy for free car parking and nipping up to the High Street for an ice cream or a hot chocolate afterwards at the Beech Tree Café.

Favourite children’s class Our son’s favourite out of school activity is Spanish lessons at The Dunblane Centre by local company Hablas Palabras. He’s been learning since he was 4 and is quite good at it now.

Favourite day out If the weather is good we like getting in the car and heading off to different places for walks, generally followed by a good pub lunch! We tend to head out towards the Trossachs, in particular Loch Katrine.

Favourite child friendly restaurant We often go to Bologna in Bridge of Allan.

They are really great with the kids and go out of their way to provide portion sizes of food that the children love. The quality of food is great!

Parenting pet hates Having to have 20 conversations at once....Gez and I rarely get to have a discussion without interruption and it’s always difficult to have a 3 or 4-way conversation about a variety of random topics.

Most loved children’s book As a family we all enjoy “The Runaway Dinner”

by Allan Ahlberg & Bruce Ingman as a bedtime story. Somehow it’s always funniest when read

by Gez, I think it’s because he genuinely finds it funny and is great at doing different voices!

Best children’s DVD or TV programme Half of our shop is given over to DVD rentals, so we have a fantastic catalogue of over 1500 movies at our disposal. However, we LOVE all the oldies but goodies including Star Wars, Runaway Vacation, Bugsy Malone & Home Alone 1&2. Funnily enough since we started the business 18 months ago we don’t get to watch as much TV!

Most played with toys For Jake, it’s all things LEGO. He just loves LEGO Games, in particular Minotaurus. As a family we play it over and over, and over again!

For Zoe, if it’s cuddly & fluffy or wee & cute, it gets played with.

Biggest waste of money Cars – they are a necessary evil and we seem to spend a fortune on them and after the last couple of winters have just bought a 4x4. I hate that we know as soon as we drive them away from the garage we have lost money on them.

Most successful recipe/food Laughingly, I actually have a recipe printed for Marshmallow Top Hats in the Dunblane Cookbook, which was produced for The Fling last year. As anyone who knows me will tell you, cooking and I do not mix well ....I’m so bad I can burn water!

Local Recommendations Beech Tree Café , Dunblane 01786 823451 Bologna Restaurant, Bridge of Allan 01786 833617 Gloagburn Farm Shop, Perth 01738 840864 www.gloagburnfarmshop.co.uk Hablas Palabras Spanish lessons www.hablaspalabras.co.uk Sheriffmuir Inn, Dunblane 01786 823285 www.sheriffmuirinn.co.uk

Recommended Family Holidays - Cottages,Villas & Hotels RecommendedFamilyHolidays.com is the place to find independent self-catering family friendly holiday accommodation that is recommended by other mums and dads.

Properties are available in France, England, Cyprus, Scotland, Wales, Ireland and Morocco.

With over 1,000 child friendly properties to choose from, each clearly list their family friendly criteria such as play equipment, swimming pool, babysitting, catering service, kids club, baby equipment, dishwasher/ washing machine and TV/DVD players. Each month, Recommended Family Holidays publishes its 25 most recommended family holidays that are independently rated by other mums and dads.

holiday including flights, transfers, room, board and kids clubs – all designed for the whole family to enjoy their holiday. Whether you want to travel to the Caribbean, Indian Ocean, Middle East or stay in Europe we now offer luxury hotels that are recommended by other mums and dads as well as self catering holiday cottages. And, if you fancy going skiing with the family, staying in a

Launch of RecommendedFamilyHotels.com RecommendedFamilyHolidays.com is excited to announce the launch of RecommendedFamilyHotels.com featuring luxury, family friendly worldwide hotels. We can help you put together your perfect family

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families central scotland / issue 8

chalet, apartment or hotel, why not try out RecommendedFamilySkiing.com!

If you would like advice on choosing your holiday, then please contact Lucilla@RecommendedFamilyHolidays. com or visit our website www.

RecommendedFamilyHolidays.com

B

en Hatch, author of Are We nearly There Yet?, his wife Dinah and their two children Phoebe (3) and Charlie (1) spent 5 months touring Britain’s familyfriendly attractions. In the course of 8000 miles they reviewed 900 attractions, slept in tents, mobile homes, castles, hotels, and, once, in their car. Ben offers Families Central Scotland readers 10 top tips when travelling with your children.

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Not owning a sat-nav today is like being a 14th century sailor and trying to round the Cape without a nautical chart. Put it this way, if I’d a choice – brakes or sat-nav? - I’d gladly drill a hole in the driver’s footwell and use my feet to slow down.

Always carry treats. Travelling with children minus treats is like walking through a vampire-infested grave-yard after midnight without a wooden stake.

You might survive, but why take the chance.

Adapt well-known children’s stories into tales involving your children themselves. Try replacing the main character’s name in a classic fairytale with your child’s name The thrill of an ego-centric toddler hearing themselves thrust into unlikely adventures involving beanstalks, glass slippers and evil witches buys valuable time.

After almost being blown up a field of live ordnance inside a Military Zone, near Otterburn, we’ve learnt to be careful taking the kids for nature wees and to look out for signs saying: “Warning: This may explode and kill you.”

You can impersonate David Blaine on the A719 between Dunure and Croy in Scotland. Here there’s an optical illusion created by the surrounding landscape which means that if you put your car in neutral and release the brake it appears to slowly roll up hill. Known as the Electric Brae (brae meaning slope), the spot is marked by a stone cairn inscribed with an explanation that you needn’t trouble your awe-struck family with.

Lie about how far it is. As a rule of thumb under 50 miles is always “round the corner.” Over 50 miles then divide how long it will take to get there by 4. Thus an hour becomes 15 minutes. You must divide by 4 again if this stills meets with disappointment.

In fact repeat this division by 4 until your child says, “That’s around the corner.”

Cheap in-car dvd players are inadvisable. Ours kept disconnecting from the cigarette lighter and returning the film to the beginning every time my wife scratched her leg in the passenger seat. Consequently despite watching Finding Nemo 10 times our kids are still unaware Nemo was eventually reunited with his father.

At the Old Town Jail in Stirling “Coarse food, continual, irksome labour and a planned and unrelenting exclusion of happiness and comfort” was the Victorian prescription for prisoners.

Something that was coincidentally also my punishment for losing the key to the roof-box containing Charlie’s nappy changing stuff a few day’s earlier, which meant we had to change him

Holidays with the Kids

on a bench in the rain using nothing but three wipes my wife found at the bottom of her handbag.

9. You can have fun at Doune Castle, used in the filming of Monty Python and the Holy Grail, shouting from the ramparts in our best John Cleese voices: “I fart in your general direction. Your mother was a hamster and you father smelled of elderberries.”

10. Finally, if all distractions in the car fail, turn up Classic FM to max volume and kid yourself you aren’t muffling the kids’ din with an even louder one, but that you’re educating them about Haydn.

Are We Nearly There Yet? 8000 Misguided Miles Round Britain published by Summersdale Publishers Ltd is available from all good bookshops.

Ideas for the Feb Half Term holiday It can be difficult to keep the kids occupied during the February half term due to our unpredictable weather, alternating between bright crisp and cold days or wet and damp days, sadly the latter is often the more frequent!

What with 2010’s record snowfall sometimes you need some indoor activities to keep kids happy and active. Here are a few suggestions from local mums and dads.

Swimming – Good fun in any weather and there are loads of pools across the central belt. Check the following websites for times and costs. www.stirling.gov.uk www.falkirk.gov.uk and www.clacksweb.gov.uk.

Cinema – Great for any weather. See listings for the Macrobert and the Bo’ness Hippodrome in our out and about or check on www.macrobert.org.uk and www.falkirk.gov.uk. There is also the Vue in Stirling and Cineworld in Falkirk.

Historic Scotland – whilst not totally indoors we have some fantastic castles right on our doorstep, from Stirling Castle, Doune

Castle, Blackness Castle and Linlithgow Palace. All great fun for one of those crisp sunny (if cold) days out. Check out www.historicscotland.org.uk Check out also the National Wallace Monument and Bannockburn. For a warmer indoor activity check out Callendar House in Falkirk.

Soft Play - There are loads of soft play venues across the central belt. Bearhaert Castle and the Springkerse View in Stirling, Cadwinkles and Monster Mania in Falkirk as well as Kidz World in Alloa. There is also a small soft play at the Motor Museum in Bo’ness.

Geocaching - is a fantastic/free activity to get families out and about. It is a high tech treasure hunt and you can learn more by viewing our article on www. familiesonline.co.uk/LOCATIONS/ Central-Scotland/Articles/Attention-allyou-active-families-for-a-fun-day-out-inFalkirk-with-the-children.

Get Crafty – Paint your own pot at Play Pots Ceramics in the Drip Road Stirling www.playpotsceramics.co.uk or take part in arts and crafts sessions at various venues with The Paint Pot Stop. www.thepaintpotstop.co.uk Pop into your local library. Its free and a great way to keep the kids happy for an afternoon. They often have music /craft sessions during the holidays.

out & about

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.

Monday 2nd to Thursday 5th January

Puss in Boots (U) Macrobert various times

Wednesday 4th and Thursday 5th January

Puss In Boots (U) Bo’ness Hippodrome (U) 11am and 2.30pm Saturday 7th January

Peter Pan (U) Bo’ness Hippodrome 11am

Saturday 28th January and Sunday 29th January

Big Garden Bird Watch Take part in the nations birds watch. All you need is a pen and paper and spend an hour watching the birds in your garden. Click on http:// www.rspb.org.uk/birdwatch/ takepart.aspx for details and Group booking enquiries to download a sheet to help welcome. For further details or you find out more about the to book phone 01259 750394 project. Schools will also be taking part from 15th -30th January.

Saturday 14th January Madagascar Escape 2 Africa (U) Bo’ness Hippodrome 11am Stirling Farmers Market Port Street 10-4pm

Saturday 28th January

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Friday 3rd February to Thursday 9th February (ex Tuesday)

Saturday 4th February

Hugo (U) Bo’ness Hippodrome 11am

Little Seedlings Club at Dobbies - Taking care of our feathered friends. Join us at this interactive workshop to find out what types of birds can be found in your garden. Learn what to feed birds to help them survive in winter. Children Tuesday 17th January to will get to make their own bird Thursday 2nd February feeder to take home. Contact Dobbies on 01786 458860 for details. FREE Children must be Ring a Ding Ding at the Macrobert Written and accompanied by an adult. directed by Tim Webb, with music by Max Reinhardt, Thursday 12th January Ring a Ding Ding is an epic and immersive voyage of An Audience with Charles discovery for children aged Dickens at the Macrobert three to six and their families.

7.30pm Performed by Charles Highly interactive and multiDickens’ great great grandson sensory, the show is designed Gerald Dickens. Enter and to spark a child’s imagination explore the world of Charles and is presented by innovative Dickens in a theatrical children’s theatre company Oily experience full of variety. See Cart. Phone 01786 466666 for great moments from Pickwick tickets. Suitable for ages 3+ Papers, David Copperfield and more. Enter the classroom Saturday 21st January of Wackford Squeers in a stunning performance from Millions (12A) Bo’ness Nicholas Nickleby. Suitable for Hippodrome 11am ages 11+ For tickets phone 01786 466666.

Forefront Theatre Company present Aladdin at the Alloa Town Hall. Sixty hugely talented youngsters from Stirling, Falkirk and Clackmannanshire in the best panto you’ll see this year.

Falkirk Farmers Market 11-4pm High Street

War Horse (TBC) Bo’ness Hippodrome various times

Sunday 8th January

Friday 13th January to Saturday 21st January

Friday 3rd February

Alvin and the Chipmunks : Chipwrecked(U) Bo’ness Hippodrome 11am

families central scotland / issue 8

Sunday 29th January

Bird Watching at Blackness Castle 11am - 3.30pm Join our Rangers & RSPB for a look out over the Firth of Forth. Tea and coffee included but bring a packed lunch.

Children welcome but must be accompanied by an adult.

Booking essential phone 01506 842065 or email hs.rangers@ scotland.gsi.gov.uk Tuesday 31st January to Saturday 4th February

Big Bad Wolf Theatre Company present Dracula The Musical at the Falkirk Town Hall. Prepare to enter the twilight world of “Dracula - The Musical!” Count Dracula himself is back in town and he’s looking for love. However, the path of true love never does run smoothly and the Count appears to have bitten off more than he can chew, as Sonia proves to be a tricky conquest. Dracula is forced to enlist the help of his werewolf butler sidekick - Jacob and bungling chefs Salt and Pepper, to woo his would be fiancée.

Dracula’s dreams of making Sonia his bride are foiled at every turn, with hilarious results. Tickets available at the Steeple Box Office or phone 01324 506850 or visit www. bigbadwolf.biz

Jewellery workshops for children at Callendar House Falkirk 11-12noon or 2-3pm.

Be creative and fashionable with designer Sheana Stephen.

Make your own earrings and bracelets, or for the more adventurous, a hatpin or ring, using coloured beads, pearls and wire. Materials provided.

Suitable for ages 10+ Booking essential phone 01324 506850 for tickets. £5 The Jack & Jill Market 10.30- 1.30pm 30-40 stalls bursting with quality nearlynew baby & kids clothes, cots, toys, buggies and all the rest. £1 Adults. The Vine Venue Dunfermline. To book a stall visit: www.jackandjillmarket. co.uk Sunday 5th February

Little Seedlings Club at Dobbies - One potato, two potato, three potato… Come along and learn about different types of potatoes and what you can do with them. Everyone will get to plant a potato seed and create pictures using potato stamps. Contact Dobbies on 01786 458860 for details. FREE Children must be accompanied by an adult.

Families Central Scotland Magazine now on facebook. Visit us for regular what’s on updates.

Saturday 11th February

Ice Age : Dawn of the Dinosaurs Bo’ness Hippodrome 11am

a step for Fair Trade, starting in Fairtrade Fortnight. It can be a simple step, like swapping your tea to Fairtrade, or a bigger step, like asking everyone in your office to do it too.

Centre 7pm. There will be a fashion show and local beauty and relaxation therapists on hand to give you a taster session of many different therapies from massage to manicures. For tickets and details phone 01786 824224

Stirling Farmers Market Port Street 10-4pm

Red Dog (U) Bo’ness Hippodrome 2.30pm The Heart of Scotland Choir perform at the Falkirk Town Hall 8-10pm For tickets phone 01324 506850 or available at The Steeple Box Office.

Saturday 18th and Monday 20th February

Red Dog (U) Bo’ness Hippodrome various times Saturday 25th February

Thursday 15th March

You’ll be joining thousands of others all over the UK when you take a step for Fairtrade.

Make it as inventive, daring, funny or messy as you like.

Every step counts for millions of farmers, workers and their communities in developing countries who urgently need a better deal from trade. To find out more visit www. fairtrade.org.uk/get_involved/ campaigns/take_a_step_ in_2012.aspx Friday 2nd March

Falkirk Farmers Market 11-4pm High Street

Bridge to Terabithia (PG) Bo’ness Hippodrome 11am Donaldson’s School Information Day for Parents and Professionals 9.30am – 1.30pm Situated in Linlithgow, Donaldson’s School is Scotland’s national school for pupils who are deaf or have communication difficulties.

This information day provides the perfect opportunity to find out more about the wide range of services on offer. To register phone 01506 842900 Sunday 26th February

The Jack & Jill Market 10.30- 1.30pm 30-40 stalls bursting with quality nearlynew baby & kids clothes, cots, toys, buggies and all the rest. £1 Adults. Albert Halls. Stirling.

To book a stall visit: www. jackandjillmarket.co.uk Monday 27th February to Sunday 11th March

Fairtrade Fortnight This year we’re asking everyone to take

Saturday 24th March

Fair Trade Ceilidh Come and join the fun with the fabulous Riverside Ceilidh Band from 7.30pm in the Bridge of Allan Parish Church Hall. For tickets and details visit www.fairtradestirling.org

Cinema Listings

Saturday 18th February

Jurassic Park (PG) Bo’ness Hippodrome 11am

out & about

Saturday 3rd March

The Goonies (PG) Bo’ness Hippodrome 11am Monday 5th March to Saturday 10th March

Bridge of Allan Operatic Society present The Sound of Music at the Macrobert A great night out for all ages! For information and tickets visit www.sabos.co.uk or phone the Macrobert on 01786 466666

Saturday 10th March

Mother and Daughter Pamper Evening at the Dunblane

For cinema listings at Bo’ness Hippodrome call 01324 508850 or visit www.falkirk.gov. uk/hippodrome

The Attic presented by Starcatchers at the Falkirk For cinema listings at the Macrobert call 01786 466666 Town Hall. 11-12 noon and or visit 2-3pm Suitable for children www.macrobert.org age 3+. Grandma and Lucy are up in the attic where all the memories are stored. Hidden in Where Smart Mums Sell & Save dusty containers at the top of the house, they have been waiting a long time to come out and play. Come up the stairs, blow 30-40 stalls bursting with away the cobwebs quality nearly-new baby & and peep into the kids clothes, toys, buggies, boxes. Who knows cots, car seats, and all the what might happen rest (0-5 yrs). when the sleepy Indoor markets.

0 -5 attic comes to life. yea r Entry £1 adults. s Tickets available at The Steeple Box Dunfermline The Vine Venue Sat 4 Feb Office, phone 01344 506850 or visit Albert Halls Sun 26 Feb Stirling www.starcatchers. org.uk All markets 10.30 am—1.30 pm

The Jack & Jill Market

www.JackandJillMarket.co.uk

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

FlooringStudio families.pdf

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Unrivalled customer service and value for money.

For more information visit www.falkirk.gov.uk/wastewatchers or call 01324 504444 pW ee

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82 Henderson Street, Bridge of Allan, FK9 4HS HendersonStreet, Street, Bridge of 4HS 82 82 Henderson ofAllan, Allan,FK9 FK9 4HS 01786Bridge 833 383 833 383 01786 833 383 01786 l www.the ooringstudios.com

• cooking classes • grow your own fruit & veg sessions • gift vouchers from www.love-eco.co.uk, iTunes & HMV • quality eco products

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Unrivalled customer service and value for money.

ANNUAL SALE STARTS JANUARY 2012 Unrivalled customer service4th and value for money.

Register for the Challenge, complete the 2 week waste diary, claim your goody bag and automatically enter our monthly prize draws to win:

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Take part in the Waste Watchers Challenge to save you money, council resources and the environment.

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SEVEN ITEMS WASTED IS STILL IN ITS PACKAGING THE TOP 5

Traditional customer values THE 21ST CENTURY for the 21st century.

AVERAGE SCOTTISH HOUSEHOLD THROWS AWAY £430 WORTH OF FOOD EACH YEAR ONE IN

Traditional customer values for the CUSTOMER 21st century.

TRADITIONAL VALUES FOR

FOODS WASTED ARE MILK, BREAD, FIZZY DRINKS, POTATOES & READY MEALS AND SNACKS

2/3 OF THE FOOD WE THROW AWAY COULD HAVE BEEN EATEN AN