Families Glasgow Issue 68 Mar Apr 18 by Families Magazine Glasgow

FR M E E E H O

TA KE

M E

Glasgow IN THIS ISSUE

Easter Activities Guide Enjoy Wild Times Outdoors ...and lots more!

Issue 68 March/April 2018

familiesonline.co.uk

Now g Takinngs Booki Visit us in Soar at Braehead and make your own chocolate. What delicious fun!

Love. Chocolate.

www.thecocoabeancompany.com 2 Families Glasgow

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In this Issue... 2-7

News & Views

8-9

Early Years Care

Spending Time Outdoors

Make Time for YOU

Your Kids’ Book Reviews

13-16 Easter Activities 17-19 What’s On Highlights

Welcome to issue 68! As I write this, the sledge is safely stowed away in the loft, the tulips are peeking out of the ground, the sun is shining, and: the snow lies three inches thick on the ground! Hopefully this is the last of it now, and we can look forward to warmer (if not drier) days. First of all, we would like to wish all mothers a happy Mothers’ Day. It can be a difficult time for some, so we hope that whatever memories you reflect on bring you joy. March also sees World Book Day (1st), Glasgow International Comedy Festival (825), British Science Week (9-18), Sport Relief (17-23) and Puppet Animation Festival (24/314/4). There’s certainly plenty on! As well as popping in to the Baby & Toddler Show (27-29 April) and making the most of the puppet festival at the Scottish Mask and Puppet Centre, we’ll be heading

over to Greenbank Garden for a Cadbury’s Easter egg hunt. While we’re there, we can put into practice some of the tips from our article on enjoying wild times outdoors – we just need to keep checking that weather report and dress accordingly! Best wishes,

Enjoy The Show Puppet Animation Festival is the UK’s largest and longest established annual performing arts event for children, celebrating its 35th anniversary in 2018. Puppet Animation Festival co-ordinates a diverse programme of puppet theatre, puppetry making workshops and animated films for children between the ages of 0-12. The Festival brings quality theatre and animated films to audiences across Scotland. The Festival isn’t just for kids though. We want parents and guardians to get involved and have fun too, allowing the whole family

Get in touch

Editor: Susanne Hein editor@familiesglasgow.co.uk, 01355 459 314 Keep up to date at www.familiesonline.co.uk FamiliesGlasgow Next issue: May/June Tell us about any events or classes that you want to publicise. Please get in touch Booking deadline: April 16th Special ad rates and offers available, call or email to find out more.

Be an All Star!

All Stars Cricket provides boys and girls from 5 to 8 years old with an opportunity to become a star. The national curriculum of fun cricket activities and games, provides children with the basic movement skills to begin a lifelong love of physical activity.

Copyright: Families Glasgow Magazine February 2018. Families Glasgow is part of Families Print Ltd, a franchise company. All franchised magazines in the group are independently owned and operated under licence. Families is a registered trademark of LCMB Ltd, Remenham House, Regatta Place, Marlow Road, Bourne End, Bucks SL8 5TD. The contents of Families Glasgow are fully protected by copyright and none of the editorial or photographic matter may be reproduced in any form without prior consent of Families Glasgow. Every care is taken in the preparation of this magazine, but Families Glasgow; our distributors, the franchise company, Families Print Ltd, and Lifecycle Marketing cannot be held responsible for the claims of advertisers nor for the accuracy of the contents, or any consequence thereof.

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Music and Dance for Boys and Girls aged 6 months - 5 years www.ballet4babies.co.uk

to connect with one another and their local community through creativity. The festival will run from 24 March – 14 April nationwide. To find a show in your area, please visit www.puppetanimation.org The programme is a paid for product that has a RRP of £40, although this can vary across the Country. The cost includes the 8 week All Stars Cricket programme and the pack; including a bat, ball, rucksack, cap and t-shirt. The pack also includes an Activity book that allows children and parents to engage with the programme using several weekly challenges to earn ‘star awards’ like bowling, catching, running, and teamwork. The programme is delivered by trained volunteers who deliver game-based activities that teaches basic cricket skills like catching, throwing, hitting a moving ball and social skills like team work and communication. Held at accredited cricket clubs these courses are a perfect way for children to learn about cricket and make friends in safe, and most importantly, fun environment. For more information or to register for a summer of #BigMoments please visit allstarscricket.co.uk NCT Nearly New Sale Saturday 17th March 1:30-3:30pm Queens Park Baptist Church 20 Balvicar Drive, G42 8QS

Miss Claire info@ballet4babies.co.uk

0775 911 9965

All Welcome. Top quality baby and children's items for sale. NNS.Glasgow@nct.org.uk Families Glasgow 3

The Baby & Toddler Show, 27-29 April, SEC, Glasgow 73 Questions a Day! The UK’s biggest baby and toddler show is coming to Scotland So What’s the Problem? for the very first time on 27 – 29 April at the SEC in Glasgow and it offers amazing shopping, huge deals and expert advice for new and expectant parents. The Baby & Toddler Show will have an unbeatable line-up of big name brands, unique innovative products, local companies, services and experts to offer a helping hand in parenthood, making sure little ones are safe, happy and comfortable! Save money and stretch budgets with unbeatable deals on the 150+ top brands and baby essentials. Best prices are guaranteed on pushchairs, prams, car seats and furniture – find all the big name brands in one place. Save 1/3 on tickets, quote SBT19 at www.babyandtoddlershow.co.uk – adult tickets £8 Plus, there’s a free goody bag for every family, packed with lots of branded products such as nappies, cream, wipes and more!

British children aged 1 to 6 ask an average 73 questions every day - half of which parents struggle to answer, according to a recent study conducted by One Poll. Children are at their most inquisitive at 4 years old and boys and girls tend to be just as curious as each other. Almost a third of parents in the study find this constant barrage of questions exhausting, lasting as it often does from the time children wake until they drop off to sleep at night. Almost half of the parents interviewed admit that they struggle to find an answer 50% of the time, turning to Google for help, whilst nearly one third confessed to making up answers on the spot. Fathers field the most questions but mothers still deal with an average of 413 per week. To help parents deal with some of their children’s more challenging questions, Tots Town at Argos has teamed up with child psychologist Dr. Sam Wass and created a series of videos which can be found on YouTube.

Spring Into Easter Fun ! The National Trust for Scotland is getting ready to celebrate Easter and the arrival of spring with its annual Cadbury Easter Egg Hunts. Dozens of events take place at the conservation charity’s properties from Culzean Castle in Ayrshire to Inverewe Garden in Wester Ross from 30 March to 2 April. Two unusual locations are joining in the fun for 2018 – Barry Mill, an operational water mill in Carnoustie and the Tenement House, a traditional Glaswegian tenement flat. There are also exciting new experiences for visitors this Easter, as the Trust unveils two major new developments: The Easter bunny will find a new friend at Brodie Castle this spring, with the opening of the Playful Garden. This unique, familyfriendly garden experience will be full of surprises, colourful stories and giant-sized fun, including Brodie bunny – at more than 6.5 metres, he’s about the biggest rabbit sculpture in Scotland. Family fun at Newhailes, East Lothian has got a big boost too, as they get ready to open ‘Weehailes’ a magical play area inspired by the special place of books and learning in the history of one of Scotland’s most impressive historical attractions. For more information about Cadbury Easter Egg Hunts, the Playful Garden at Brodie Castle and Weehailes, visit www.nts.org.uk. 4 Families Glasgow

Something For Everyone Did you know that the Cocoabean Factory at Braehead caters for more than just the children? As well as the much-loved Beanie Tots sessions for under 5s, the excellent workshops, and children’s parties, the Braehehad branch of this family run chocolate factory also runs one-off events specifically for grown-ups and teenagers. For Mothers’ Day, for example, you can treat your mum to a delicious home baked afternoon tea, following which you will be guided through the process of making your own truffles! (A family version of this event is also available.) Keep an eye out on @cocoabeanbraehead on Facebook for further details and future events! www.thecocoabeancompany. com/braehead-glasgow familiesonline.co.uk

Making CPD Fun Parents, teachers and workshop leaders who would like to expand their knowledge and confidence when working with puppets and masks can now work with professional artists and entertainers from the Scottish Mask and Puppet Centre. As well as its wide-ranging family program of puppets, shows, birthday parties and workshops, the centre has now added enjoyable, interactive CPD/in-service sessions for nursery, primary, secondary, after school, and SEN professionals, as well as being suited to freelance art workers, club leaders, teachers and any adults interested in the art. Choose from twilight, or a little more in-depth daytime sessions during March. Book now online or email Sarah for full details at info@maskandpuppet.co.uk Tel SMPC 0141 339 6185.

Get Ready for Harry Potter Augmented Reality Game! A new game based on the popular world of Harry Potter is due to be released to coincide with the next film instalment of Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them this autumn. Brought to you by Niantic (the makers of Pokémon GO) and WB Games San Francisco, Harry Potter: Wizards Unite uses state-of-the-art augmented reality technology. The game promises to “reveal the magic all around us” as you explore real-world neighbourhoods and cities to discover mysterious artifacts, learn to cast spells, and encounter legendary beasts and iconic characters along the way. No doubt the makers are hoping to replicate the success of Pokemon Go, which currently has roughly 5 million daily active users world-wide, and brought in an estimated $960 million in revenue in 2016 alone! Before you worry about your child spending more time glued in front of a screen, do remember that, on average, Pokemon Go users’ daily step counts increased by 26%, compared with before they started playing the game.

Love your library Glasgow’s libraries are just like big houses full of books. They can be great fun for children, and are free for everyone to enjoy. A Glasgow Library card gives your child access to: 1. A fantastic selection of kids’ books From the newest releases to classic favourites, take up to six books home with you or curl up in the colourful children’s area and read together. 2. Free Computers and Wi-Fi There are more than 600 free computers at Glasgow Libraries, and they’re all free to use. Lots of libraries have computers just for children to enjoy. 3. Speaking of homework – try our homework clubs Got some tough questions you need answers to? Or just want some extra help with your studies? Ask your local library about homework clubs in your area 4. Arts and Crafts and Fun and Games Libraries have all kinds of fun after school clubs running – check out what’s on offer at your local library 5. Turn a banana into a keyboard Seriously. Your library can help you do this, and you can even create your own computer games at Glasgow Libraries regular Coding clubs. Visit any of Glasgow’s 33 libraries and discover lots more reasons to love your local library. Find your nearest library at www.glasgowlife.org.uk/libraries. familiesonline.co.uk

Research Confirms New Dads Mental Health Concerns A new poll reveals almost 40% of men experience anxieties after having children. The research released by the Priory Group of Harley Street, London also claims to show that thousands of men experience anxiety – and in some cases depression - as they enter fatherhood. One in five men believed they were actually suffering from Paternal Post Natal Depression, although only 2% were officially diagnosed. This accords with earlier research by the parenting charity the NCT, which showed around 1 in 3 new fathers are concerned about their mental health. The increased pressures of fatherhood, more financial responsibility, changes in relationships and lifestyle, combined with a lack of sleep and an increased workload at home, may all affect a new dad’s mental wellbeing. Concern about their partner is another worry for new fathers. The NCT found that almost three quarters (73%) of dads were worried about their partner’s mental health. For more information visit www.nct.org.uk/dads-PND or www.priorygroup.com Families Glasgow 5

Scottish Mask and Puppet Centre Paddington 2 STUDIOCANAL is pleased to announce that the Bafta nominated hit film will be available on digital download from March 5th, and on DVD, Blu-ray and 4K UHD+Blu-ray from March 12th. The much anticipated sequel to the world wide hit family film finds Paddington happily settled with the Brown family in Windsor Gardens, where he has become a popular member of the community. When searching for a present for his beloved aunt Lucy’s 100th birthday, Paddington spots a unique pop-up book in Mr Gruben’s antique shop, and embarks upon a series of odd jobs to buy it. But when the book is stolen, it’s up to Paddington and the Browns to unmask the thief… We have a couple of lovely Paddington 2 bundles up for grabs, which include the DVD. To enter, simply tell us who voices the beloved bear in Paddington 2.

To celebrate The Puppet Animation Festival, the Scottish Mask and Puppet Centre have very kindly offered up a family ticket for “Who Will Marry Miss Mouse?” on Mother’s Day, March 11th at 1pm. This traditional folk tale will be performed at 11am, 1pm and 3pm, followed by a workshop to make your very own Miss Mouse puppet! Miss Mouse falls in love with Mr Mole, but Papa Mouse has other plans! Don’t miss this lovely show with a humorous twist... and a happy ending of course! There will be home baking in the cafe too. Look out for the Centre’s other shows during the animation festival, as well as the Glasgow International Comedy Festival and during the Easter break. To WIN a family-of-four ticket, please e-mail Families at competitions@familiesglasgow.co.uk (subject: “Miss Mouse”) with your name and address by March 9th. Standard terms and Conditions apply.

To be in with a chance to WIN, please e-mail Families at competitions@familiesglasgow.co.uk (subject: “Paddington2”) with the answer, your name and your address by April 10th. Standard terms and Conditions apply.

Kids Comedy The Glasgow International Comedy Festival has been bringing world-class comedy to Glasgow for 16 brilliant years. Top comedy stars from around the UK and beyond will be coming just to entertain you. They’ll be complemented by the very best of home-grown Scottish talent for a comedy extravaganza that makes up Europe’s largest comedy festival. We are offering one lucky reader the chance to win a family ticket (4 people) for Gary Dunn Presents Jokes and Tricks on Sunday 25th March at 3pm. Gary brings his own brand of slapstick, comedy and fast paced modern magic back to The Stand this March for what could be his stupidest show yet. Lots of belly laughs and silly tricks make this a show for the whole family to enjoy! To WIN a family ticket, please e-mail Families at competitions@ familiesglasgow.co.uk (subject: “Comedy Festival”) with your name and address by March 19th. Standard terms and Conditions apply. 6 Families Glasgow

Lack of Sleep Damaging for Children More than a third of primary school children are failing to get sufficient sleep, according to new research. The study has linked poor sleep with difficulties in paying attention in class, keeping up with school work, forgetfulness and absenteeism. The research, carried out by the University of Leeds has shown that despite the NHS recommendation of 10 hours, 36 per cent of primary age children get eight hours of sleep or less per night. Even more worryingly, 15 per cent get less than seven hours. The researchers found links between poor sleep and children having access to mobile phones or computer devices in their bedrooms. They said parents should consider removing technology from their children’s bedrooms. The researchers further claim that where parents are able to encourage children to not have technology in the bedroom at all seep outcomes are much better. Other factors contributing to poor sleep were poor parental sleep patterns and lack of routine. More information on the study can be found at www.leeds.ac.uk familiesonline.co.uk

Five Early Signs of Autism

arly diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder can mean parents don’t have to wait for their child to start school to implement intervention programs.

Early autism intervention programmes can address the primary behavioural symptoms of autism in children from as young as 18 months of age and can have long term positive effects. Many children with autism appear to be developing typically until they start pre-school or kindergarten, when language and social delays stand out in contrast to the development of their peers. These five signs of autism can be observed in children as young as 12 to 24 months of age.

Your child does not look when you point at something

A child with autism may not look when you point at an object across the room and may not follow your gaze when you look at something.

Your child does not point with one finger to request items or get help

A child with autism may not use gestures like pointing with one finger to ask for things or to direct your attention.

Your child does not respond to his or her name

Children with autism may not understand the response you expect when you say their name, or they may not be motivated to respond in the same way as a typically developing child.

Your child avoids looking you in the eye

A child with autism may find eye contact challenging or painful and may avoid looking you in the eye when you are talking to, playing with, or dressing him or her.

Fresh as a Daisy

e know that personal hygiene is closely related to mental resilience. For some people, the first casualty of depression is taking a shower, or brushing teeth. We thank our parents for instilling a daily ritual of cleanliness, which takes over when our mind is in a funk. It can be hard work for parents, when faced with screaming or flat refusal over a bit of tooth paste. So here are our top tips for making those five minutes at the start and end of the day a little easier.

Sparkly Clean

Brush Baby’s chewable toothbrush (www. brushbaby.co.uk, £4.99) are a brilliant introduction to toothbrushes for babies and toddler from 10 to 36 months. The BPA-free silicone brush is dishwasher safe, and little ones enjoy the soothing massage sensation on their itchy and sensitive gums while teething. For older children, a timer is a great accessory (we found one for £2 in Tiger) to make sure they stick with it for two minutes. Very reluctant brushers might enjoy the tedious repetitiveness of “Brush along with Budd”, a YouTube song and video which shows exactly where the toothbrush should go and for how long.

Your child ignores you or does not seem to understand directions

A child with autism may have trouble understanding spoken language. If you have concerns about your child, contact your GP or healthcare provider today. For more information on early intervention visit www.autism.org.uk or www.gemiini.org, which is a web based learning programme offering online video modelling to parents without a formal diagnosis or access to regular services.

Keeping Clean by Katie Woolley is part of the highly accessible Healthy Me range of titles which support the science curriculum. The book is designed for children to begin to learn about the importance of being healthy, and the ways in which we can look after our bodies to keep fit and well. To WIN a copy of Keeping Clean, please e-mail Families at competitions@familiesglasgow.co.uk (subject: “Keeping Clean”) with your name and address by April 10th. Standard terms and Conditions apply.

Scrub a Dub Dub

Whether in the shower or the bath, kids love to have fun. Coloured soaps can help them remember to actually wash themselves. To encourage them to hold the soap and rub it on their body try a fun shower jelly from Lush (uk.lush.com, £4.25). The bouncy soap is a slippery customer, and bounces just like a real jelly. Kids love squishing it in their hands and trying to stop it from escaping! There are lots of products out there, which purport to help you tackle this tricky area. The most important thing you can do, however, is to be a good role model. Brush your teeth at the same time, let them see you wash your face, or put on body moisturiser. Show them that you care for your body, and they will want to follow suit.

Hair Raising Care

When it comes to tackling little girls’ knotty bird’s nests, Tangle Teezers are hard to beat. Combine with Childs Farm hair detangler (www.childsfarm. com, £5), which contains a louse-deterring dash of tea tree essential oil, and hair brushing turns into a different kind of experience. familiesonline.co.uk

To WIN a kids starter pack from Brush Baby, please e-mail Families at competitions@familiesglasgow.co.uk (subject: “Brush Baby”) with your name and address by April 10th. Standard terms and Conditions apply. Families Glasgow 7

The Family and Childcare Trust provide a useful ‘Childcare Finder Tool’ and ‘Help with Childcare Costs Guide’ which can be found at www.familyandchildcaretrust.org

Finding the Right Childcare Provider

inding good quality childcare can be a difficult task for parents. Here is a step by step guide to the things to look out for and questions to ask when selecting the childcare provider that is right for your child.

Make a List

Draw up a shortlist of providers using information from your local Family Information Service which should be available from your local authority. Remember to check: • The hours that childcare can be provided • The hourly, daily, and/or weekly cost • If they have a place available for your child • Whether they are offering the 30 hours of government funded childcare (if you are eligible).

Visit Providers on your Shortlist

It's a good idea to visit several settings and to ask questions in person. It might help to take a friend or your partner to give you a second opinion.

Things to look for:

• Trained and experienced staff, ready to learn and respond to your child's individual needs • Busy but relaxed children who seem happy and purposeful • Safe, clean, welcoming premises • Outside play space • Cultural sensitivity and responsiveness to children's home life • A staff team and group of children who reflect local ethnic and cultural groups • Fun activities planned each day – childcare providers all need to plan their days with children's interests and enthusiasms in mind • Planned exercise and quiet times to relax are important • A big welcome for you and your child

What to ask:

• What is the ratio of staff to children? How many children do they care for? • What qualifications and/or experience do the staff have? • What are the daily routines and how can they incorporate my child's and other children's routines? • Do they operate a key worker scheme (whereby one member of staff has main responsibility for your child)? • What are their policies on discipline and how do you manage children's behaviour? • Do they provide meals, snacks, nappies, etc. or will you need to provide them?

What will your child enjoy?

Here's a list of the things children said were most important when asked for their views: 8 Families Glasgow

Friends - check that a stable group of children attend so your children can make and maintain friendships Food - check mealtimes are relaxed and fun and ask if children can help themselves to drinks and snacks Fun outside - check the outside area is well planned, spacious and safe as children love playing outside Discovery - make sure there is plenty of opportunity for children to learn new things with varied, carefully planned, structured things to do Feeling safe and loved - check that the staff are able to respond to individual children's needs, to comfort and encourage them and to keep them safe Remember to also think about the things that matter to you and your child, and make sure you ask about them.

Check the Quality

Most childcare providers looking after children under the age of eight years usually have to be registered with Ofsted. You can check Ofsted's grade and report for the providers you are considering at www.ofsted.gov.uk.

Take up References

Other parents' experiences of a childcare provider can be very useful. It is advisable to take up at least two references. Childcare providers should be happy to give you names of other parents to speak to about the service they provide.

Book a Place

Book your child's place and arrange details like hours, start date, and who is allowed to pick up your child. You may need to pay a retainer fee to keep the place open until your child starts.

Settling In

Your child may take some time to settle into any new childcare setting, so allow them time to adjust to their new surroundings, especially if this is their first time in childcare. Most settings will offer a ‘settling in period,' during which you have an agreed length of time to assess whether the setting is the right one for your child and that they are happy there.

Funding Support

Some two year olds and all three and four year olds in Scotland can get 600 hours of ‘free’ childcare, but check whether there will be charges for ‘add ons’ such as materials and snacks. Some private nurseries are allocated a number of “funded” places, the value of which is re-distributed among all families with children attending in the form of a fee rebate. If you are considering a private nursery for your child, this is another question you can ask. familiesonline.co.uk

Learning for life

estled in the heart of the bustling country town of Crieff, Morrison’s Academy has long been making the most of its enviable location to enhance the education of every one of its pupils. The school’s 157-year tradition of academic success continues today with a contemporary Scottish curriculum taught through child-centred learning that builds emotional intelligence, creativity and life skills. It’s clearly succeeding, with pupils achieving a 96% pass rate at Higher level in 2017, earning the school a nomination for the Scottish Rural Awards in the Education category. Generations of Morrisonians have benefitted from this rich blend of academic, artistic and sporting experiences, going on to make their mark on the world as Olympians, scientists, actors, explorers, politicians and professionals. Today, pupils from Nursery through to Advanced Higher enjoy specialist teachers in sports, languages, and creative and performing arts delivering a high standard of teaching in a growing range of subject choices.

Several unique innovations, including the Striving for the Highest personal development programme, provide core experiential learning in relationships, health, careers and enterprise, drawing out independence and building confidence and empathy. The Morrison’s family extends beyond the current roll: former pupils and staff around the world regularly contribute to events, careers networking, and overseas trips, and are always delighted to return to visit their alma mater’s beautiful campus in the heart of lowland Perthshire. Just an hour from Edinburgh and Glasgow, the school also runs numerous bus services in the surrounding areas, extending as far as Stirling, Perth, Pitlochry and Aberfeldy. The next Nursery and Primary Open Morning is on Friday 04 May 2018. Take a tour, meet pupils and staff, and discover more about Morrison’s Academy’s unique approach to learning. For further information please contact Catriona Elliott, Admissions Registrar - admissions@morrisonsacademy.org

PRIMARY && NURSERY NURSERY PRIMARY OPEN MORNING MORNING OPEN Friday 04 May 2018 Friday 04 May 2018

Registration from 9.30 am. Crèche facilities available.

Morrison’s Academy is a friendly and nurturing Registration from 9.30inam available independent school theCrèche heart offacilities rural Perthshire. Our longAcademy tradition of success in boys and Morrison’s is academic a friendly and nurturing girls from 3school to 18 in continues today, withPerthshire. an approach independent the heart of rural blends outdoor and experiential Ourthat long tradition of academic successlearning, in boys and girls digital rich classroom environments from 3 to technology, 18 continuesand today, with an approach that blends to create truly personalised education for each and outdoor andaexperiential learning, digital technology, every child. richand classroom environments to create a truly personalised education for each and every child. Come to our Open Morning − take a tour, meet our pupils staff, and find− out our unique Come to our and Open Morning takewhy a tour, meet our pupils learning hasour us shortlisted for the to learning andapproach staff, andtofind out why unique approach Rural Award Education. hasScottish us shortlisted for thefor Scottish Rural Award for Education. Register to attend online, by telephone or on Register to attend online, by telephone or on the daythe day.

01764 653885 morrisonsacademy.org

MORRISON’S ACADEMY

Morrison’s Academy, Crieff, PH7 3AN

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08/02/2018 14:1309:43 07/02/2018 Families Glasgow 9

Here are some simple tips to encourage Wild Time: 1. Create a Den in the garden. Get the kids to help build it. They could even camp in it overnight! 2. Invest in some wellies and waterproofs so that you can go outside, rain or shine.

Enjoy Wild Time Outdoors By Claire Winter

ne of the greatest joys you can have as a parent is to see your kids run free outside - watching the delight on their faces and listening to their laughter as they hide in long grass, get muddy or roll down a hill. With increasing pressure from work and school, families are struggling to find free time to be in nature. It seems there is an epidemic of families and children who aren’t getting to go outside enough. According to a report commissioned by Persil for their ‘Dirt is Good’ campaign, British children are spending less time outside than adult prisoners! 74% of kids are spending less than an hour outdoors every day. A third only spend half an hour, and one in five don’t go out at all. Also, a recent government funded survey showed that one in nine kids haven’t been in a natural environment, like a park, forest or beach for at least 12 months. Being outside is good for children’s general wellbeing and mental cognition. Kids are shown to be happier, healthier, more confident and less anxious when they spend time in nature. Equally, adults benefit from being outside with their children too. Serotonin levels are higher in your body after you have spent time in daylight and being in fresh air also helps you sleep better. With increasing pressure at school, parents who work, afterschool clubs, screen time and homework to do, children generally have a lot less free time. Unstructured time outside and in nature is something that has become a luxury rather than a necessity. Organisations like The Wild Network are trying to encourage families to get back outside. Their mission is to ‘rewild’ childhood and give children more #wildtime. Their groundbreaking film has been seen across the world, and they have a wild time learning project in which over 200 schools have taken part. You can find out more by going to their website www.thewildnetwork.com. Spokesman for the Wild Network, Mark Sears says: “Over the last five years, we have seen an avalanche of evidence that shows that time spent outdoors offers huge benefits to children as well as their wider families and communities. Wild Time is one of the few things left that is fun, free and good for you and yet most families don't get enough of it. Other than the more obvious benefits like better physical and mental wellbeing, which are increasingly well evidenced it is now proven that Wild Time can support learning too through better concentration, imagination, resilience and capacity to rapidly process risk - all vital tools that children will need to thrive in the 21st century.”

10 Families Glasgow

3. Grow some fruit and vegetables. You can do this by using pots on the windowsill or by using a small patch in the garden. 4. Start an animal watch list that children can tick off. 5. Create some landscape art. Use twigs, leaves, shells or stones, and photograph what you have made. 6. Make walks fun – do some of the walk blindfolded! Or make a treasure map of things your children have to find. 7. Try geocaching (www.geocaching.com). This does involve using an app but might encourage a reluctant nature explorer who won’t be parted from a device. 8. Let older children have some freedom. Get them to walk, explore and go out on their bikes without adults. 9. Research some outdoor activities or exercise classes that you can do as a family, like an outdoor boot camp or mountain bike riding. 10. Sign up to the National Trust’s ‘50 Things To Do Before You’re 11 ¾.’

If you want more time in nature with your family try and make time at the weekends to take them to a beach, wood, forest or river. If you’re on a budget, or short on time, find your local park and enjoy the green, open space. Do some running races, climb a tree and make a camp. The urban farm movement is also a great way to give your children a taste of the country life. The best thing about spending time in nature is that it is as free as the air you breathe. Pack some sandwiches and the world is your oyster. Keep your phone in your bag and gadgets at home. Enjoy playing hide and seek, rock pooling, jumping a stream and finding bugs under a rotten branch.

Other resources Check out the nature detectives with the Woodland Trust, who have lots of fun ideas for kids of all ages. www.woodlandtrust.org.uk/naturedetectives Try www.ifootpath.com, a great app for walking in the UK, it costs just £1.99. Buy The Adventure Map of Britain for £14.99 at www.marvellousmaps.com It’s a wonderful visual guide of fun things to do in the UK. Play Scotland also have a wealth of resources online for encouraging free play outdoors, as well as the fantastic Boredom Busters app. www.playscotland.org Bloomsbury have published The AntiBoredom Book of Brilliant Outdoor Things to Do by Andy Seed, packed with ideas and challenges. £5.99

familiesonline.co.uk

Finding Space for YOU

o, you imagined that when your children went to school, you’d have an extra 6 hours a day to play with, right? Wrong. The school routine kicks in and so do the demands of homework, sport, music and after school clubs. Not to mention worries about whether they will make friends. Are the other children being kind to them? Are they being kind to the other children? In reality, those 6 hours a day get eaten up in a different way – there may be a few more minutes, but there’s no less stress. It’s easy to commit those valuable spare minutes too, almost without realising it. Of course, you’ll be class representative, join the PTA and ferry your children back and forward to lots of extra-curricular activities. Before you do this though, take a moment to ask yourself: would you be better to dedicate this time to yourself? Will that help you feel less stressed and overwhelmed? Will your family be better off with a happy and well balanced you, or with one that is over-extending themselves? ‘Me time’ is not just nice to have. It is an absolute necessity. So slow down and reconnect with what brings you joy. You can do this at any time just as soon as you decide you’ve have had enough of being busy. Here’s how:

Create a Safe Haven

When you feel you have no time, you may feel you have no space too. Create a space where you have room to think – a sofa that is clear of homework, a dining table that is clear of the remains of the last meal or a room that is out of bounds for the children. Clear physical space helps generate clear mental space. Creating it and keeping it that way means you won’t constantly have to tidy it up for it to become what you need.

Have Your Fun with the Kids Too

It is easy to become resentful about all the time we dedicate to our children when we don’t have enough for ourselves. Having more fun time together can drastically increase your own levels of joy, and bring you a step closer to having time for you. So create a list (in your safe haven) of all the things your child wants to do that you enjoy too. That could be going for a walk around a stately home with an amazing playground or visiting a museum with a great café. If you love games make sure you have the ones YOU like in the house… use these times as a chance to connect with the child in you as well as the one(s) in front of you.

Delegate Your Top 3

If we don’t know how to spend our time we end up ‘full’ but not fulfilled. We do chores that someone else could do, like tidying and cleaning. Yes, these things have to be done but you can perhaps do less of them and there is definitely room to delegate IF you are willing to let go and choose instead to spend time doing something that gives you joy. List the top 10 things you are juggling, pick three that you don’t like and delegate them; that might mean outsourcing, or finding someone else at home to take responsibility. Don’t rule out your child as a possible candidate – help them to take responsibility for their own things (and the mess they create) early in life. Their future spouses/partners will thank you for the times you resisted doing everything for them!

Try a Kids Swap

I often observe that some parents won’t ask for help for fear of criticism, whilst others won’t offer for fear of interfering. The truth is we all have family and friends who want to support us if we allow them to do so. Find a person whose kids you could tolerate looking after regularly and agree a swap. You look after their kids one month and they do it for you the next month. Quid pro quo is a great way to overcome guilt and begin to be supported.

Focus on 15

When we are overwhelmed with our schedules we desperately crave space for ourselves and it seems impossible to get. Don’t target Nirvana. Just 15 mins a day can make a massive difference to how you feel. Start small and build these short amounts of time into your schedule, even if this is initially just an extended shower or starting your day 15 minutes earlier.. Rather than focusing on your need for an hour or two of spare time, experience the joy you can extract from 15 minutes of the same activity. Are three favourite songs enough to bring you joy? Or a single chapter of a book? Both of these things are better than no time for you. And once you recognise the joy you can get from 15 minutes, you will be motivated to find more time. When you are happy, your children will be happy. When you take time for you, you will be re-energised for your family. So in their interests, take care of yourself. Find that space today using the steps above, no matter where your starting point is. Susie Ramroop is a mum and a Transformational Coach. For more information, visit www.susieramroop.com

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Families Glasgow 11

Your Kids’ Book Reviews Philip is a sausage dog, and he’s in love. But he’s so tiny and he wants to be taller so that he can kiss Penelope. He tries some funny things, with his best friend Ralph coming up with silly ideas. The flaps are so funny, they’re the best thing about the book. If you look really close, you can also make up your own story with the squirrels in the pictures. They’re really cute. I want to read it again! Amy (age 6), Bishopbriggs Dog in Boots – Paula Metcalf – ISBN 9780192758842 – PB £6.99 - 2+ This story is a bit scary, but I like the story of Nessie, and one day I want to go to Loch Ness to find her. The boy and the girl are really hungry, so they go treasure hunting. Kenneth doesn’t even believe in the treasure, but he finds the golden key. Only we don’t know if Nessie wants them to find the poison or the treasure. It’s exciting to find out what happens. Angus (age 5), East Kilbride The Treasure of the Loch Ness Monster – Lari Don – ISBN 978-1782504801 - PB £6.99- 4-7yrs I couldn’t wait to read this, because I read another story about Jasmine, who wants to set up a rescue centre with her friend Tom. This time she has to look after a lamb when it’s mother dies, and her parents tell her she is not allowed to keep it. Then some robbers come and steal all her dad’s sheep! There are some words in this I didn’t know already, but it was nice to talk with my mum about being a vet and where meat comes from. Caitlin (age 8), Hyndland A Lamb Called Lucky – Helen Peters – ISBN 9781788000246 – PB £5.99 – 5-8yrs Hiiiiii-ya! The Ninjabread Man jumps out of the oven. He chops his way through the training set. He kicks past the other fighters. But the fox is following him everywhere. Can the Ninjabread Man win before the fox eats him? Will the dojo keep its newest member? Erin (age 8), Maryhill Kick! Jump! Chop! The Adventures of the Ninjabread Man - Heather Ayris Burnell ISBN: 978-1454918813 – HB £12.99 – 2-5yrs Morrigan Crow is no ordinary girl. She lives in Jackalfax, and everything bad that happens is blamed on her. She is cursed, and everyone knows that she is due to die on Eventide, shortly before her 12th birthday. But then something wundrous happens: captain Jupiter North, of the Wundrous Society, whisks her away from her horrible family, and from the Hunt of Smoke and Shadow. This is an amazing read, set in a magical world. I thoroughly recommend it to anyone who enjoyed Harry Potter. Katie (age 11), Shawlands Nevermoor: The Trials of Morrigan Crow – Jessica Townsend ISBN: 978-1510103825 – PB £6.99 – 9-11yrs

We also loved...

Fred faces a seemingly impossible task: together with the other three children who survived the plane crash, he needs to find his way through the Amazon forest and find safety. The four children clash and bond through a variety of struggles. As they come to terms with their situation, they start to find clues that someone has been there before them. Is help closer than they think? The beauty of this book is in Katherine Rundell’s vivid descriptions – ideal for patient lovers of adventure. Lucas (age 11), Bearsden The Explorer – Katherine Rundell - ISBN: 978-1408882191 – PB £7.99 – 9-11yrs To WIN a copy of The Explorer, please e-mail Families at competitions@familiesglasgow.co.uk (subject: “The Explorer”) with your name and address by April 10th. Standard terms and Conditions apply. This book has five stories in it. Every story has a girl in it, who has to be clever and brave, and believe in herself. I like the stories a lot. They are interesting and funny, and my mum and I talk about the girls in the story. I’m glad I’ve never been in those situations, but if I was, I think I would be clever and funny too! Emily (age 6), Uddingston Smart Girls – Robert Leeson - ISBN: 9781406380545 – PB £5.99 - 5-7yrs This book is about Will, who makes a hole to the night zoo by accident. He draws a purple elephant with his school and suddenly – there is the hole to the zoo! The animals need his help, and they make him the Zookeeper. It’s not a normal zoo. It has talking giraffes, and one of them makes friends with Will. It also has robot spiders in it, which are a bit scary. I liked the story, because it’s all about imagining things. And you can draw lots of the characters. I can’t wait for the next one. Kieran (age 7), Cumbernauld Night Zookeeper: The Giraffes of Whispering Wood – Joshua Davidson - ISBN: 978-0192764058 – PB £6.99 – 7+yrs Spike (also known as Radio Boy), runs his own radio show from his shed. One day his Grandad comes to stay. Spike lets him join him on the show, but Grandad takes over. So Spike has to fire him. Grandad is furious, and swears revenge. He enters the Radio Star competition to get back at Spike, but Spike needs to win that competition! This book is hilarious, I recommend it to all my friends. Harry (age 10), Neilston Radio Boy and the Revenge of Grandad – Christian O’Connell - ISBN: 9780008200596 – PB £6.99 – 9+yrs Victoria Williamson is a primary school teacher from Kirkintilloch. Her debut novel The Fox Girl and the White Gazelle is an uplifting tale of friendship between Glasgow girl Caylin and Syrian refugee Reema. The book was inspired by her experiences of teaching young children in a deprived area of Glasgow, many of whom were asylum seekers, and by her time spent at her grandparents’ home in the Drumchapel area of the city. To WIN a copy of Fox Girl and the White Gazelle, please e-mail Families at competitions@ familiesglasgow.co.uk (subject: “Fox Girl”) with your name and address by April 10th. Standard terms and Conditions apply.

L-R: Pippa and Pele (0-3); The Phantom Lollipop Man (5-8); The Legend of Rock, Paper and Scissors (4+); Frankenbunny (4-7); Bird Builds a Nest (5+); Rabbit & Bear: Attack of the Snack (4-7); Shiny Pippin and the Broken Forest (8+); The Legend of Podkin One-Ear (9+); The 1000 Year Old Boy (9+); Fox Girl and the White Gazelle (10+) 12 Families Glasgow

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Easter Craft Ideas

Squiggle, Dot & Squeeze create personalized craft boxes for kids, delivered direct to you door. Visit squiggledotandsqueeze.co.uk to find out more.

Cock-a-Doodle-Doo Easter Brekkie (age 4+)

Make these special eggcups to decorate your festive breakfast table. Requires some cooking, so get an adult to help you.

What you’ll need:

Empty eggbox / Scissors / Red & yellow card or felt / Glue / Googly eyes / Feathers / Eggs / Pan

What to do:

• Carefully cut out a cup from an egg box keeping the central egg divider. • Using red card or felt cut out a mini cocks comb, and glue it onto the head. • Using a little scrap of red paper cut out a mini heart shape to form the wattle. • A mini folded over yellow triangle will make the beak. • If you have googly eyes to hand use these otherwise draw on your eyes. • Feathers added to the sides using tape give your cockerel the finishing touch. • Boil your egg for 3.5 mins-4 mins for soft boiled or between 7-10 for hard boiled • Pop the toast in and start your Easter weekend with your very own handmade eggcups.

This project was creted by Monkey Bean, Caterham.

Easy Easter Chick (age 1+)

This cheep cheep (!) activity is great for little ones as they are able to do it mainly independently and express their creativity.

What you’ll need:

Paper Plate / Yellow tissue paper (cut into squares 2cm x 2cm) / Glue Stick / Orange Card / Googly eyes (or paint / drawn on) / Scissors

What to do:

• Stick and cover the paper plate with the yellow tissue paper squares (don’t worry about it all sticking down it looks great feathery) • Grown ups we need your help here! Draw round your child’s hand on the orange card and cut out • Stick the hands on the side of the plate to create the chick’s wings • Cut two strips of the orange card about 15cm x 3cm for your wiggly legs. Fold both strips back and forth to create a concertina effect. • Let your child draw and cut out two feet from the orange card and stick these to the legs. • Stick on the googly eyes and cut out and stick on a beak.

How to Get Your Child Talking About Their Day

Know their Timetable

By Sophia Heaton

Give Children Time to Unwind

We all want to hear about our child’s day. Here are some tips for getting your child to open up when they come home.

Ask Open-Ended Questions

Avoid questions that can be answered in one word, especially with a “yes” or “no.” Try open-ended questions like, “Tell me about what you played at break today?”

Use their Artwork to Start Conversations

Showing interest in their work can increase self-esteem, as well as linking school and home, mentally and emotionally.

Model “Sharing” about your Day

“I had a great day today or I talked to nanna about…” It is important to share with your kids so they see communication modelled for them.

Play Talking Games

At the dinner table everyone takes turns answering “I was glad today because…..” and “I was sad today because…..”

Give your Child Special One-to-One Time

It could be as simple as preparing a meal. These are times when easy conversations occur. familiesonline.co.uk

This way you can start talking about library day, sports or art class. Discuss what your child feels went right – or wrong - in the football match or read the library book they chose with them.

Give them a snack and a run before you get home. They’ll be more inclined to give you a glimpse of their day once they’ve been fed and exercised!

Use ‘reflective listening’

Instead of “Are you worried about your test?” try “Lots of kids your age get worried about tests.”

Be Ready and Available to Listen

When your child wants to speak, put the device down and listen fully to them.

Try Communicating without Words.

Many children prefer to reconnect with a hug, by playing a game or even rough housing.

Avoid Face-to-Face Interrogations

You might do better in situations where you’re not face-to-face like in the car.

Listen Before you Talk

Sometimes your child will drop hints without your asking, like “We planted seeds today. These are perfect openings to talk together about their day. Families Glasgow 13

Snazaroo, Mini Theme Pack £2.99, snazaroo.com

Snazaroo has launched these pocketfriendly face paint packs. They’re just £2.99 per pack, with instructions and face paints included. They have ten designs to choose from including an Easter bunny and chick. It’s a really fun, budget friendly present.

Personalised Bunny Dining Set £39, ellieellie.co.uk

This cute, personalised bunny plate set is a great way to add a touch of fun to any table this Easter. Each set includes a dinner plate, side plate and mug and every item includes a bunny silhouette with your chosen name.

Colour-In Easter Top £14, selfieclothing.co.uk

Kooshi Backpack £34.99, kooshi.co.uk

This really cool company does a range of colour-in clothes. You can get a colour-in Easter top, in different sizes for children aged two to ten. Each top is printed with a design ready for your child to colour in with Selfie pens to make it their own. Once they have been coloured in and ironed, the designs will stay permanently, so your child has a unique piece of clothing they can keep. The company offersa huge variety of designs, including capes and PJs too!

We love this Kooshi Bunny backpack. It was designed by a mum who was fed up of using valuable space in her kids’ bags transporting things for them to nap on during journeys. The pillow can be detached and used on a plane, car or bus, so your child can sleep in peace. The perfect bag to take on holiday!

Oskar & Ellen Doll's House with Bunnies

Alternative Easter Gift Guide

£24.99, borngifted.com

This gorgeous, handmade Swedish designed toy looks lovely and is great fun to play with too. It’s a cloth house that has a cute bunny family inside. It also has a carry handle so it’s easy to transport too. Suitable for children aged three and above.

Compiled by Claire Winter

ored of chocolate? Do you want to give your loved ones a special Easter gift this year that isn’t edible? Well, you’ve come to the right place! Here’s our alternative guide for 2018.

Row of Speckled Eggs cushion

£26.99, welovecushions.com This range of fabulous cushions has a variety of stylish designs featuring eggs, bunnies, hares and cockerels. They would make a lovely addition to any sofa.

Personalised Egg & Solider Board

£25, hugosworkshop.co.uk This fun personalised Egg & Solider board is made from upcycled oak kitchen worktops and is personalised with the name of your choice. It is a beautiful, unusual gift that will last for years.

14 Families Glasgow

Greatest Egg Hunter Ever Jumper, £23, ellieellie.co.uk

Perfect to wear on an Easter hunt and an ideal gift for the little adventurers and the all- round mini-sleuths in your life. Made from a cotton blend these unisex sweatshirts have a soft feel with a fleecy lining and are designed for a ‘relaxed’ fit. Available in fuchsia and pastel blue. familiesonline.co.uk

Easter Activities

Easter Fun Weekend

Easter Holiday Fun!

3-13th April The Language Hub children’s bookshop and language centre, 52 Keith Court, Glasgow G11 6QW, 0141 258 2700 or 07505144476 www.thelanguagehub.co.uk In need of some Easter holiday fun and entertainment? Between the 3rd and the 13th of April, The Language Hub will be running Easter holiday morning and afternoon sessions for adults and children to enjoy, not just language learning related. Costs vary depending on session and are bookable in advance.

Easter Eggsplorer Trails

30th Mar - 2nd Apr Dumbarton Castle, Dumbarton G82 1JJ Bothwell Castle, Castle Avenue, Uddingston G71 8BL, 0131 668 8885 www.historicenvironment.scot Can you find all of the clues and complete the challenge when Historic Environment Scotland’s Easter Eggsplorer Trail returns to Dumbarton Castle? Back for another year, join in our Easter eggsploration through some of our most iconic castles, abbeys, forts and palaces. Can you find all of the clues and complete the challenge? Drop-in throughout the day. This event is included in the normal admission price.

31st Mar – 1 Apr 11.00-15.00 | £5/£4 RSPB Loch Lomond Nature Reserve , Gartocharn, 01389 830 670 https://www.rspb.org.uk Bring the whole family along for springtime adventures, nature crafts and a treasure hunt in the woods. Explore our paths, hunt for bugs and get your wellies muddy! Please drop-in between 11am and 3pm!

Cadbury’s Easter Egg Hunts

30th Mar - 2nd Apr Holmwood House, Glasgow South Side Tenement House, Glasgow West End Pollok House, Glasgow South Side Greenbank House and Garden www.nts.org.uk The National Trust for Scotland is getting ready to celebrate Easter and the arrival of spring with its annual Cadbury Easter Egg Hunts. Turn eggsplorer... collect the clues, solve the puzzle and win a Cadbury treat!

Easter Holiday Roller Discos

30th Mar to 13th Apr, 12.00-15.30 RollerStop Roller Rink, 139 Middlesex Street, Glasgow South Side G41 1EE Extra roller discos added throughout the spring holiday! Roller skating, disco lights, music and games PLUS the Easter bunny will be popping into roller skate too. New to skating? No problem, just ask a member of staff on the rink for some tips. Skate hire available or bring your own. Age 4+

Easter Pets

30th Mar to 2nd Apr, 12.00-15.00 FREE Tollcross Childrens Farm and Visitor Centre, The Courtyard 254b Wellshot Road, Glasgow East End G32 7AX, 01412760931, Join the team at the Tollcross Children's Farm for a long weekend of family fun filled farm frolics. Meet the new chicks, get your face painted and much more await you! Contact 0141 2760 931 for more info.

Family Easter Bunny Breakfast

30th Mar to 2nd Apr, 9.00-10.30 £8.95 per child / £4.95 per adult Dobbies Garden Centre, Milngavie, Clyde Valley & Braehead www.dobbies.com Enjoy a freshly cooked hot breakfast, before the little ones have fun participating in our egg-citing Easter craft activities. Kids will meet the Easter Bunny and receive a free Lindt chocolate bunny (100g - worth £2.99) to take home and enjoy. Plus there will also be a fancy dress competition at each Easter Bunny Breakfast. Make sure your little ones have their best bunny ears or mad hatter's hat on to be in with a chance of winning the prize.

Eggstatic Easter

1st April, 12.00-16.00 | FREE Whitelee Windfarm Visitor Centre, Moor Road, Eaglesham G760QQ Join the Whitelee Countryside Rangers for their annual egg roll and smash at Whitelee Windfarm. Chase the Easter bunny to Whitelee to discover our fun Easter games and activities. Decorate your egg – then obliterate it on our annual Easter egg roll. This is a drop-in event.

Glasgow Green Easter Festival with Inflatable Fun City and Fun Fair 30th Mar to 15th Apr, 12.00-18.00 £8.99 per child / adults FREE Glasgow Green, Greendyke Street, Glasgow City Centre G1 5DB Hot food, cold drinks and other refreshments are available on site. There are also prize winning stalls and games to be played too. (Please note food, drinks, refreshments and prize-winning games are NOT included in your wristbands and are cash only. Fun fair rides £1 per person, per ride.) Age group to use the inflatables is 2 - 12 year olds no adults sorry! Don't forget if the weather is damp or wet bring extra clothes and socks hopefully we won't be needing it this year! PLEASE BE AWARE: There will be queues at peak times!

JOIN THE

CADBURY EASTER EGG HUNT The National Trust for Scotland and Cadbury are teaming up again to bring Easter Egg Hunts to dozens of prop erties across Scotland. Hop along for a family adventure near you! Follow the

Collect your map...

clues...

Solve the puzzle...

45 HUNT LOCATIONS

Claim your chocola delicious te priz e!

START FINISH

Find your nearest Easter Egg Hunt at cadbury.co.uk/easter The National Trust for Scotland is a Scottish charity, SC007410

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Families Glasgow 15

Easter Activities Continued

Easter Eggstravaganza

Glasgow Children’s Hospital Charity Easter Egg Run

1st April - 10.00-14.00 Glasgow Green, Greendyke Street, Glasgow City Centre G1 5DB, 0141 212 8750 glasgowchildrenshospitalcharity.org Don’t miss this incredible event where more than 1,000 bikers ride through the streets of Glasgow in a mile-long convoy of colour, noise and fancy dress in support of the boys and girls at Scotland’s largest children’s hospital. On leaving Greendyke Street at 11.00 the route takes in the Broomielaw before crossing the Squinty Bridge and heading up Govan Road towards the hospital. The parade will pass the front of the hospital before finishing at the Ogilve carpark on Hardgate Road. No bike? Join us at the Royal Hospital for Children from 11am and welcome the parade as they approach the finish point!

Paisley Museum Easter Activities and Trail

31st March – 15th April Various times | FREE Paisley Museum High Street, Paisley PA1 2BA, 03003000250 Come along to Paisley Museum this Easter to create, invent and learn on a range of free workshops and take part in an Easter Trail! Take part in our Easter Trail to win an egg-citing Easter treat! Free creative drop-in workshops for all the family with all materials supplied.

2nd Apr, 12.00-15.00 | £6/£4.80 RSPB Lochwinnoch Nature Reserve Largs Road, Lochwinnoch PA12 4JF, 01505 842 663 https://www.rspb.org.uk Fancy some egg-cellent Easter fun? Come and join us for some egg-tastic Easter activities at Lochwinnoch Nature Reserve. We have plenty of wildlife themed Easter activities for children of all ages, including egg decoration, a treasure hunt, face painting and the ever popular Egg Drop Challenge. No booking necessary so drop in between midday and 3pm.

Easter Eggstravaganza

1st April, 12.00-14.00 | £5 Browns Brasserie & Bar Glasgow, 1 George Square, Glasgow City Centre G2 1DY, 0141 212 8750 The Perfect Family Easter! Once they have had a bite to eat, the kids will decorate eggs, join in an Easter Egg Hunt and all leave with an egg! Every kid will arrive to an Easter Goodie bag with everything they need to decorate their eggs - ready for judging at the end! Adults - sit back and relax! Enjoy your meal and a drink while the kids have fun!

Forest School Holiday Club

2-6th April Carbeth Guthrie Estate, Blanefield, Glasgow, G63 9AT, 01360 771968 www.carbethguthrie.estate/ forestschool Den building, exploring, nature craft, woodland games and more. Fully insured play experts from Operation Play Outdoors. 10 minutes from Bearsden/Milngavie

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Peter Rabbit Themed Easter Event

2nd April 13.00-15.00 | £15 Darcys, Princes Square Buchanan Street, Glasgow City Centre G1 3JN, 08451666012 Join us for a fun filled kids event! Start with Peter Rabbit themed colouring until everyone has arrived. Then onto the Paper Easter Egg Hunt & Prizes! After this we will all make a Fluffy Bunny Mask. After a quick juice break we will be decorating our very own Easter Baskets! Each kid will have their own Easter bag to take all their gifts away with them. Then just before lunch we will get them hungry with some party games, dancing and prizes! Finishing off with a delicious kids buffet!

Braw Wee Crafts for Weans - Easter Bonnet Workshop

3rd April 10.00-12.00 & 13.00-15.00 | £10 Braw Wee Emporium, BAaD 54 Calton Entry, Glasgow East End G40 2SB, 08451666012 We are launching our kids crafting workshops for during the Easter Holidays, suitable for age 7 upwards. We'll have a range of activities to keep them amusing in their twohour workshop. In our Easter Bonnet Making workshop, the weans will get to create their own bonnets using a variety of craft materials. You can relax in A Challtainn the bar and restaurant just on our doorstep in BAaD.

Bricks 4 Kidz® workshops are a fresh and fun way for kids to spend their school breaks! Children will have a blast using LEGO® Bricks to build uniquely designed models, play games, and explore the world of engineering and architecture.

Tel: 0141 339 6185

8-10 Balcarres Ave, Kelvindale Glasgow G12 0QF

16 Families Glasgow

Spring Family Fun

2nd – 15th April, 11.00-16.00 FREE entry Summerlee Museum of Scottish Industrial Life Heritage Way, Coatbridge ML5 1QD www.culturenl.co.uk The Summerlee Easter Eggstravaganza over the Spring holidays guarantees a cracking day out for all the family! Join us during the school holidays for lots of family activities, include arts and crafts, an Easter egg trail, animal handling*, mine tours, tram rides, our award-winning play area and museum exhibitions. Don’t have a boring Easter, get ready for an ‘egg-celent’ day out in North Lanarkshire!

B4KGlasgow @Bricks4KidzGla

www.bricks4kidz.co.uk/glasgow LEGO® is a registered trademark of the LEGO® Group of companies which does not sponsor, authorize or endorse these programs. Creative Learning Corporation common shares are listed on OTCBB under the ticker symbol CLCN. © 2013 Bricks 4 Kidz

LANGUAGE CENTRE & CHILDREN’S BOOKSHOP

Year Round Children & Families Programme

info@maskandpuppet.co.uk www.maskandpuppet.co.uk

31st March 11.00-15.00 | £4 Johnstone Town Hall, 25 Church Street, Johnstone PA5 8EG, 03003001210 Bounce on down to Johnstone Town Hall on Saturday 31st March for an Easter Fun Day featuring a special screening of ‘Hop’ plus loads of Easter-themed activities for all the family! Movie: ‘Hop’, screenings at 11.15am and 1.15pm. Ticket price includes: movie tickets, access to all Easter activities, popcorn, candyfloss & juice box. Activities include: Family Film ‘Hop’, Easter Art & Craft Activities, Bouncy Castle, Easter Egg Hunt, meet the Easter Bunny, Easter biscuit decorating, and much, much, more!

SPRING WORKSHOPS

Scottish Mask and Puppet Centre

Shows, Workshops, Birthday Parties

Bounce! Easter Fun Day

Sensory, play-based music classes for babies, toddlers and pre-schoolers in Milngavie, Bishopbriggs, Lenzie, Scotstoun and Partick.

The Language Hub C.IC. 52 Keith Court, Glasgow, G11 6QW www.thelanguagehub.co.uk info@thelanguagehub.co.uk t: 0141 258 2700 m: 07505 144 476 familiesonline.co.uk

8+17 MAR Brain Access 19.00 & 14.00 | £5/£4 | pre-school The Britannia Panopticon Music Hall, 113-117 Trongate, Glasgow City Centre G1 5HD, 0141 204 5151 www.britanniapanopticon.org Brandon Barrett, one of Britain’s best young magicians, presents BRAIN ACCESS - A magic show like no other! Throughout the show Brandon will mix magic with his unique brand of witty repartee. With nearly a decade of experience (he started when he was six) get ready to laugh, be astounded and wonder; how on earth did he do that?

Sat 10 MAR The Owl and the Pussycat 14.00 | £5.95 Scottish Mask and Puppet Centre, 8-10 Balcarres Avenue Kelvindale, Glasgow G12 0QF, 0141 339 6185 www.maskandpuppet.co.uk Join Chief Purser Iain on board the O&PC Cruiseline’s state of the art flagship….the Atlantic Princess for full steam ahead...! Will our hero and heroine survive in their beautiful pea-green boat? All this and more, in Folding Theatre’s new show. In partnership with GICF ww.glasgowcomedyfestival.com

Sat 10 MAR Who Will Marry Miss Mouse Show & Workshop 11.00/13.00/15.00 | £5.95 Scottish Mask and Puppet Centre, 8-10 Balcarres Avenue Kelvindale, Glasgow G12 0QF, 0141 339 6185 www.maskandpuppet.co.uk It's Mothers Day and we want to know Who Will Marry Miss Mouse? A traditional folk tale, with a humorous twist... and a happy ending, when Miss Mouse falls in love with Mr Mole....but Papa Mouse has other plans. Including a make your very own Miss Mouse workshop after the show with our help. There will be home baking in the cafe too. In partnership with GICF www. glasgowcomedyfestival.com

familiesonline.co.uk

17+18 MAR

11 + 25 MAR Dr Jones Funny Bones 13.30/14.30 | £3.50 | 3-10yrs The Iron Horse Bar, 115 West Nile Street, Glasgow City Centre G1 2SB www.glasgowcomedyfestival.com Dr Jones Funny Bones is a fun show aimed at children age 3 to 10 years old but suitable for all the family so why not bring grandparents too. Laugh, sing and learn about the human body with real life GP turned comedian Dr Jones Funny Bones. Free entry for babies and infants under 2. All children must be accompanied by an adult ticket holder.

Sat 17 MAR Tree Planting Day! 12.00-17.00 | FREE | 3+ yrs Kilbride Woodlands, 1 Burley Place, East Kilbride G74 5LZ, 07714744788 www.eastkilbridecommunitytrust. co.uk/ In partnership with the Woodland Trust we will be celebrating the wonder of trees by planting over 400 of them with your help! This is your chance to make a profound and lasting mark on the Community Woodland - planting a tree that you can nurture and re-visit with your family and friends for decades to come. For further information or to book by phone contact our Community Woodland Engagement Officer on 07714 744788 or at stephen@ekct.co.uk

Sat 17 MAR James Campbell -The Hilariously Funny World Of… 14.00 | £7.50 / £25 Citizen’s Theatre, 119 Gorbals Street, Glasgow G5 9DS, 0141 429 0022 www.glasgowcomedyfestival.com Enjoy the best comedy for kids at the Glasgow International Comedy Festival from the man who invented it! James' show finds The Hilariously Funny Things about everything including pets, yoghurt, bees, and why do we have hair?

Donal Vaughan Science Magic 15.00 | £5 / £16 The Stand Comedy Club, 333 Woodlands Rd, Glasgow G3 6NG, 0141 212 3389 www.glasgowcomedyfestival.com Prepare to enter the magical world of science. Forget Harry Potter, Donal is the real wizard. Join him as he does the impossible. Always exciting, sometimes messy. Learn about science, and laugh your pants off while you do. And the best part? You can do all the tricks at home using everyday household items. You too can become a science wizard and amaze your family and friends.

Sun 18 MAR The Magic Circus by Magic Den 14.00 | £5.95 | 3+ Scottish Mask and Puppet Centre, 8-10 Balcarres Avenue Kelvindale, Glasgow G12 0QF, 0141 339 6185 www.maskandpuppet.co.uk Roll up, roll up, Magic Den presents The Magic Circus, an exciting, fun, fast-paced and colourful magic show for all the family. Everyone from 3-93 is sure to love this interactive show, so get in early as you could be a star in Den’s Magic Circus.

20-24 MAR The Wizard of Oz 7.30pm & 2.30pm | From £13.50 Village Theatre, Maxwell Drive, East Kilbride G74 4HG, 01355 261000 www.sllcboxoffice.co.uk Following their successful production of Annie in 2017, EKAMS are delighted that their 2018 production will be the RSC’s version of The Wizard of Oz which follows closely the story line of the 1939 MGM film of the same name. Little Dorothy Gale of Kansas, like so many girls her age, dreams of what lies over the rainbow. One day a twister hits her farm and carries her away over the rainbow to another world. Come join Dorothy, the Scarecrow, the Tinman, the Cowardly Lion and Toto as they travel the universe of Dorothy’s imagination.

Fri 23 MAR Heritage Tots – Little Train 13.30-14.15 | £2.00 | pre-school North Lanarkshire Heritage Centre, High Road, Motherwell, ML1 3HU, 01698 274 590 www.culturenl.co.uk Music, stories and crafts for preschool children. Old clothing is recommended as craft activities may be messy

Sat 24 MAR Save the Planet! 12.00 | £4 The Tall Ship, 150 Pointhouse Place, Glasgow G3 8RS, 0141 357 3699 www.glasgowcomedyfestival.com A fun and light-hearted look at climate change featuring comedians Viv Gee (as Dr Dee Nyer), Marc Jennings and Stephen Halkett. Apparently, our planet needs rescuing because of this global warming ‘thingy’. We need to figure out what to do and we need your help. There will be plenty of jokes and laughter along the way and quite possibly some ‘bottom burp’ sounds. Oh, and don’t forget the prizes, there will be prizes! This show is suitable for the wee kids and the big kids (known as parents). Come along and help save the planet!!

24+25 MAR Gary Dunn Presents Jokes and Tricks! 15.00 | £5 / £16 The Stand Comedy Club, 333 Woodlands Rd, Glasgow G3 6NG, 0141 212 3389 www.glasgowcomedyfestival.com Gary Dunn is back again for more Mirth, Magic and Marshmallows? Gary brings his own brand of slapstick, comedy and fast paced modern magic back to The Stand this March for what could be his stupidest show yet. Lots of belly laughs and silly tricks make this a show for the whole family to enjoy!

24+25 MAR My Shadow and Me 14.00 | £5.95 Scottish Mask and Puppet Centre, 8-10 Balcarres Avenue Kelvindale, Glasgow G12 0QF, 0141 339 6185 www.maskandpuppet.co.uk Chaplinesque comedy and ingeniously inspired shadow theatre, all in the hands....quite literally…. of puppeteer Drew Colby. Not forgetting the bunny rabbit, how many animals can you count in one show? In this delightfully imaginative and fun adventure! Commissioned by Junction, Goole & supported by ACE. In partnership with GICF www. glasgowcomedyfestival.com. Join in the after show shadow workshop separately for £5.95 or combined with the show for £8.95

Sun 25 MAR The Steadfast Tin Soldier 13.30 | £6.50 | 3+ yrs Eastwood Park Theatre, 1 Rouken Glen Road, Giffnock G46 6UG, 0141 577 4956 www.puppetanimationfestival.org Once there was a remarkable, onelegged tin soldier who fell in love with a beautiful paper dancer. One day he tumbled out of the play room window, and so began a perilous journey into a great unknown... This playful retelling of Hans Christian Andersen’s poetic and touching story uses light, project animations and simple materials that are skilfully transformed through puppetry to create a theatrical experience that will engage and touch young hearts and minds.

Families Glasgow 17

Sat 31 MAR Grandad and Me 14.00 | £6.00 | 5+ yrs Eastwood Park Theatre, 1 Rouken Glen Road, Giffnock G46 6UG, 0141 577 4956 www.puppetanimationfestival.org Grandad and Me is a living storybook about loss, longing and the treasures of memory and imagination. We meet a young girl who is missing her Grandad - he has gone, even though his favourite job was being her Grandad. Led by found objects and her imagination, she traces his footsteps on a magical adventure through time and space.

Sat 31 MAR SWA Family Friendly Wrestling 19.00 | £13 Motherwell Concert Hall and Theatre, Civic Centre, Windmillhill Street, Motherwell ML1 1AB, 01698 403120 www.culturenl.co.uk SWA family wrestling returns to Motherwell Concert Hall on the 31st March 2018. The event this time is set to be a real cracker with former WWE intercontinental champion Ryback, Motherwell favourite Grado, Impact wrestling star Bram, BBCs own Jack Jester including the SWA champion Joe Coffey! Fun for all the family! Meet and Greet tickets available at Ticket Scotland and General tickets available from the venue! See you ringside!

Sat 31 MAR One Man Shoe 11.00 | £2.50 Maryhill Burgh Halls, 10-24 Gairbraid Avenue, Glasgow West End G20 8YE, 0141 948 0700 www.puppetanimationfestival.org When the headline act fails to show up, Jango, a bumbling theatre caretaker, is suddenly thrust into the limelight and embarks on a hilarious journey of highly crafted and heartfelt silent comedy, as he magically finds his way to realise his dream of transforming into a star! Jango Starr’s unique style of silent physical theatre includes contemporary circus clowning, slapstick comedy, puppetry, juggling and absurd magic, bringing laughter and joy to all ages!

18 Families Glasgow

Sun 1 APR Photo Cinema Workshop 10.00-16.00 | £5.00 | 7+ Cumbernauld Theatre, Braehead Rd, Cumbernauld G67 2BN, 01236 737235 www.cumbernauldtheatre.co.uk A one-day workshop for young people age 7+ exploring photo collage and projection to make amazing mixed media performances. Have fun experimenting with old photos, collage, and live feed video and projection to make your own live cinema performances. This workshop will give you a taste of how you can use simple materials to make fantastical visual effects and hilarious sequences. You will be working alone and in groups to make surreal collaged characters and undiscovered landscapes for their adventures. By bringing in one of your favourite photos, you will even get the chance to make you or one of your family the starring role! The workshop will end with a live performance you can invite friends and family to, to premier your masterpieces!

Sun 1 APR Pirates Treasure Hunt! 14.45 | £5.00 | 2+ East Kilbride Arts Centre, Old Coach Road, East Kilbride G74 4DU, 01355 261000 www.sllcboxoffice.co.uk The McDougalls are back with an exciting new musical show for 2018. Max, Auntie Aggie and Morag the Rabbit are on a quest to fine the lost treasure once belonging to Captain McDougall and his motley crew! Its buried somewhere on a Desert Island and they need your help to find it ... Help follow the treasure map across land and sea and meet some terrific creatures and characters along the way. Will The McDougalls find the old treasure chest before the naughty pirates? Find out in this swashbuckling, musical adventure filled with catchy original music and family singalong favourites!

4-8 APR Pinocchio 14.00 & 19.00 | £12.00 Motherwell Concert Hall and Theatre, Civic Centre, Windmillhill Street, Motherwell ML1 1AB, 01698 403120 www.culturenl.co.uk An interactive musical adventure comes to Motherwell Theatre this Easter featuring catchy songs, stunning scenery and costumes and spectacular ultra violet glow-inthe-dark puppetry. Geppetto longs for a son of his own and so builds a puppet boy named Pinocchio who is magically brought to life by a beautiful Fairy. To become a real boy, Pinocchio must first prove he is brave, kind and true and so sets off on an epic journey. Will Pinocchio make the right choices and be good? Or will he be tempted to do wrong by a mischievous Fox and Cat or the evil Puppet Master? Inspired by the book by Carlo Collodi.

Thu 5 APR Mini Makers 11.00 | £5.00 | 5+ Cumbernauld Theatre, Braehead Rd, Cumbernauld G67 2BN, 01236 737235 www.cumbernauldtheatre.co.uk Drawing, painting, cutting, sticking… Ta Dah! Come and get creative and maybe a little tiny bit messy at one of our Mini Makers sessions for age 5+. Join your little one to help them create and arts and crafts masterpiece! 1 ticket admits 1 child. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Adults go free!

Thu 5 APR Galoshins 13.30 | £5 | 5+ Cumbernauld Theatre, Braehead Rd, Cumbernauld G67 2BN, 01236 737235 www.cumbernauldtheatre.co.uk Galoshins is a very old Scottish folk drama, told through rhyme, comedy, glove puppetry and live music; come and meet the 'finest and funniest doctor in town'... who is also 'partial to a wee fish supper'! This production is the result of a collaborative residency at the Scottish School of Studies Archive, between Shane Connolly of Sokobauno and the Scottish Folk Singer Alasdair Roberts.

Sat 7 APR Make ‘n’ Take Puppets 11.00 | £2.50 Maryhill Burgh Halls, 10-24 Gairbraid Avenue, Glasgow West End G20 8YE, 0141 948 0700 www.puppetanimationfestival.org During the workshop you will make you very own rod puppet, that you can then take home with you. Hours of imaginative play lie ahead, as you make up stories, songs and scenarios with your fabulous new puppet.

Wed 4 APR Four Go Wild in Wellies 11.00 | £8.50/£5/£4 | 3-5yrs Platform, The Bridge, 1000 Westerhouse Road, Glasgow, G34 9JW, 0141 276 9696 www.platform-online.co.uk A whimsical adventure featuring bobble hats, scarves and tents that have a life of their own - and, of course, lots of fun in wellies! Four Go Wild In Wellies is a brand new show for audiences aged 3-5 years from Indepen-dance4, Scotland’s inclusive professional dance company.

Registered charity number 1153487 (England and Wales) SC046840 (Scotland). Company limited by guarantee number 08570737.

Sat 31 MAR Oscar and the Deep-Sea Pearl 14.45 | £5.00 East Kilbride Arts Centre, Old Coach Road, East Kilbride G74 4DU, 01355 261000 www.sllcboxoffice.co.uk The future of the ocean rests on one little mouse…Oscar and his friend, Fin the fish, are swept into an exciting underwater mystery in which they encounter the wicked Emperor Gritsklyter and a power which controls the whole sea. Can they save the day and their friends, and still return home before teatime? Fast-paced, energetic, musical and humorous, this is an established family favourite, presented in Mousetale Puppets’ colourful glowin-the-dark style.

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Sat 7 APR Family Fun Day 10.30-16.00 | FREE Cumbernauld Theatre Kildrum, Cumbernauld G67 2BN, 01236 732 887 www.cumbernauldtheatre.co.uk Come along and bring the whole family to our Family Fun Day. With costumes to try and everyone’s favourite- face painting, there will be plenty to see and do. Get creative with arts and crafts, join in a storytelling session or take part in a drama workshop and with all activities free it could be the chance to try something new. So join us for this cracking day out!

7-10 APR Family Storytime various | £5 | 4-7 yrs Scottish Youth Theatre, The Old Sheriff Court, 105 Brunswick Street, Glasgow G1 1TF, 141 552 3988 www. scottishyouththeatre.org Laugh, play, jump and shout that’s what Family Storytime is all about! These popular interactive storytelling adventures never fail to delight early years audiences aged 3-7 years and the whole family. We are proud to be teaming up with Edinburgh International Science Festival 2018 to bring you fun family tales with a scientific twist -lots to keep small children and toddlers entertained!

Tue 10 APR Little Light 13.30 | £5 | 5+yrs Cumbernauld Theatre, Braehead Rd, Cumbernauld G67 2BN, 01236 737235 www.cumbernauldtheatre.co.uk Using shadow puppetry, table-top puppets, object theatre, dance, music and animation, this new multi-media production from one of Scotland’s leading puppetry companies tells the story of a lonely boy who discovers companionship and trust through the curiosity of a mischievous star and the devotion of a faithful dog.

Wed 11 APR Bug Hunting at Baron's Haugh 10.30-12.30 | £5/£4 (RSPB members free) RSPB Baron's Haugh Nature Reserve, Manse Road, Motherwell, ML1 2PZ, 0141 331 0993, www.rspb.org.uk Join our friendly reserve warden to look for all kinds of fascinating creepy crawlies in amongst the woods and meadows at Baron’s Haugh. From millipedes to spiders, learn how to identify the different bugs and beasties you’ll see on the reserve and in your garden! Suitable for adults and families. Booking essential. Contact: The RSPB warden on 07872 814911 or 0141 331 0993, or by email at baronshaugh@rspb.org.uk

Thu 12 APR Milkshake! Live – The Magic Story Book 12.00 & 15.30 | £15/£13.50 Motherwell Concert Hall and Theatre, Civic Centre, Windmillhill Street, Motherwell ML1 1AB, 01698 403120 www.culturenl.co.uk Starring Milkshake! favourites; Bob the Builder, Little Princess, Noddy, Fireman Sam, Shimmer & Shine, Pip from Pip Ahoy!, Winnie and Wilbur, Wissper, Milkshake’s very own Milkshake! Monkey and two Milkshake! presenters, this all singing, all dancing, musical masterpiece, will take audiences on a journey through the world’s favourite fairy tales. Set amongst Milkshake’s magical bookcase, this brand new live show is sure to amaze and delight!

Fri 13 APR Home Sweet Garden 13.30 | £5 | 4-7 yrs Cumbernauld Theatre, Braehead Rd, Cumbernauld G67 2BN, 01236 737235 www.cumbernauldtheatre.co.uk Home Sweet Garden is gentle and charming for young audiences. It tells the story of a family and their front garden through the use of puppetry, music and audience interaction. Inspired by the decline of front gardens in the UK and its impact on the environment, the story illustrates what happens when one day a family’s garden just disappears!

Sat 14 APR Space Ape 14.00 | £5 | 7+ yrs Cumbernauld Theatre, Braehead Rd, Cumbernauld G67 2BN, 01236 737235 www.cumbernauldtheatre.co.uk Once upon a time (approximately twenty years from now) Yorick stands alone, suited up and ready to blast off on his celebrated solo journey to Mars… Using a range of animated objects, Andy Cannon, Scotland’s leading storyteller for young audiences, tells the story of Space Ape, a new science fiction storytelling production which will take young audiences on a journey through art, science, and philosophy, and on a mission with a very special ape.

Sat 21 APR RUSK! 14.00 | £5 | 6mth -6yrs Rutherglen Town Hall, 139 Main Street, Rutherglen G73 2JJ, 0141 613 5700 www.sllcboxoffice.co.uk Our baby disco goes from strength to strength and now it’s back, bigger and better than before. Bring your little ones down for some Saturday afternoon fun and join them in cutting some shapes on the dancefloor. Our resident RUSK! DJ will be on hand to ensure the fun never stops and you can always take advantage of our chill out room if the pace gets too much. Bring along your favourite soft toy to join in the fun...

Sat 28 APR The Magic Horse 14.00 | £5.95 Scottish Mask and Puppet Centre, 8-10 Balcarres Avenue Kelvindale, Glasgow G12 0QF, 0141 339 6185 www.maskandpuppet.co.uk Meet a Magic Horse that takes you wherever in the world that you wish to go and Fingle, the hero of our story, who takes the Magic Horse on an adventure to find a princess for a very lazy prince.

Baby & Toddler Show 9.00-16.00 | £13 SEC Centre, Scottish Event Campus Exhibition Way, Glasgow City Centre G3 8YW www.babyandtoddlershow.co.uk The UK’s biggest baby and toddler show is launching a new show in Glasgow this April and has all the amazing shopping and expert advice new and expectant parents need to give their baby the best start! It’s the only place you will find so many unbeatable deals on the essential purchases and handy products to make you and your little one comfortable, safe and stylish... Save money with huge deals: Make your budget stretch further on all the top brand essentials as well as handy, unique products you won’t find on the high street. Get guaranteed best prices on car seats, buggies and furniture. 150+ top brands and products to test, try, compare and buy. Meet knowledgeable experts who will help you find the right products for you and have hands-on demos. Hear practical advice from our experts: Every aspect of parenting, birth, feeding, sleeping, nutrition, finance and more is covered at our free advice workshops.

Free goody bag for every family

SEC, Glasgow 27-29 April

TEST, TR COMPYA, & BUYRE

Wed 18 APR Heritage Tots – Cogs & Wheels 13.30-14.15 | £2.00 | pre-school North Lanarkshire Heritage Centre, High Road, Motherwell, ML1 3HU, 01698 274 590 www.culturenl.co.uk Music, stories and crafts for preschool children. Old clothing is recommended as craft activities may be messy.

Sat 21 APR Galoshins 14.00 | £5.95 Scottish Mask and Puppet Centre, 8-10 Balcarres Avenue Kelvindale, Glasgow G12 0QF, 0141 339 6185 www.maskandpuppet.co.uk See 5 Apr at Cumbernauld Theatre

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27-29 APR

OVEROP 150 TNDS BRA

Amazing shopping and expert advice for new and expectant parents to give their baby the best start

Save 1/3 on tickets, quote SBT22 at babyandtoddlershow.co.uk Families Glasgow 19

20 Families Glasgow

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