Families Central Scotland Mar-Apr 2011 by Families Magazine

Central Scotlandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s really useful magazine for busy families of children age 0-12.

FREE Issue 3 Mar/Apr

In This Issue

- Your guide to local nursery provision - Ideas for the Easter Holidays - Out and About Guide - 10% off voucher at Kicks for Kids

YOUR CHANCE TO WIN - Win a goody bag of Fairtrade baby items worth over ÂŁ50 - We have 12 pairs of tickets to be won for the Scottish Baby and Toddler Show at the SECC www.familiescentralscotland.co.uk

editor@familiescentralscotland.co.uk

079302 64979

families central scotland / issue 3

contents

Hi and welcome to our 3rd issue of Families Central Scotland. Thankyou for all the positive feedback and for the overwhelming response to the competition. Congratulations to Brian from Menstrie who won the Carters Toy Shop competition.

Central Scotland’s really

useful magazine

for busy famili

es of children age

0-12.

FREE Issue 3 Mar/Apr

Welcome and Contents.................................................................. 3 News and Local reviews.............................................................4-5 Ideas for the Easter Holidays....................................................6-7 Choosing a Nursery......................................................................8-9 Local Nurseries........................................................................... 10-11 Parent to Parent article with Emma Gray...........................12 Baby page with sleep solutions..................................................13 Out and About guide.............................................................. 14-15

- Your guide to local nursery provis ion - Ideas for the Easter Holida ys - Out and About Guide - 10% off vouch er at Kicks for Kids

In this issue we have a great child care feature including a YOUR CHANCE TO WIN useful guide to local nursery provision for that all important decision parents face when returning to work. We also have a feature on ideas for keeping the kids busy during the Easter holidays and as always our out and about guide to local events for the coming months. - Win a goody bag of - We have 12 pairs Fairtrade baby items worth over £50 of tickets to be won for the Scott Baby and Todd ish ler Show at the SECC www.familiescen tralscotland.co.uk

editor@familiesce

ntralscotland.co.u

079302 64979

In addition to the magazine we have a great competition on our website to win an all expenses paid long weekend break in Aviemore in the heart of the Cairngorms National Park. Visit www.familiescentralscotland.co.uk and read the ‘Find a Family’ article for details.

Fiona Logan and Louise Boyle Joint Editors Families Central Scotland PO Box 21612 Stirling FK7 1DQ editor@familiescentralscotland.co.uk tel no 07930264979 Visit us on www.familiescentralscotland.co.uk 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. Deadline for May/June is 1st April Design – Gillian Lamb of Lamb Designs Printers – J Thomson Colour Printers Cover – Courtesy of Mothercare

In this issue • • • •

Win a Fairtrade baby goodie bag p5 Win free tickets for the Scottish Baby and Toddler Show at the SECC p4 10% at Kicks for Kids childrenswear p12 Look out for special introductory offers at Kool Kids nursery and Little Stars nursery

If you have any feedback we would be delighted to hear so please email us on editor@centralscotland.co.uk If you have any event you would like us to include in the Out and About section please let us know and we will do our best to include this.

Fiona & Louise the editors

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.

Win Tickets To The Scottish Baby & Toddler Show Scotland’s biggest baby & toddler event, The Scottish Baby & Toddler Show is back at the SECC, Glasgow on 29 April – 1 May 2011 and this year is set to be the biggest and best year yet, with Mothercare and Early Learning Centre on board as the headline sponsors. We have 12 pairs of tickets for this great show to be won. The show has been created especially for parents and parents-to-be and brings together leading specialist baby & toddler companies, whose products range from car seats to childcare, prams to photography, maternity wear to nappies. As well as seeing the latest products and services for parents, babies and toddlers, visitors can make huge savings, obtain expert pregnancy and parenting advice. Guest speakers include Annabel Karmel and Jo Tantum. Opening hours are 10am – 5pm daily. Free entry for under 16s. Further information and tickets call 0844 3954000 or visit www. thescottishbabyandtoddlershow.com. For your chance to win a pair of tickets send your answer to the question below to editor@ familiescentralscotland.co.uk by the 31st March. At which Glasgow venue will The Scottish Baby & Toddler Show take place?

Stagecoach - Skills for life not just the stage

tagecoach is Britain’s largest part time theatre school, offering quality training in Drama, Dance and Singing to young performers from 4 – 18. The aim is to catch both talent and enthusiasm at an early age, and provide opportunities for budding young performers to express themselves by giving them a good basic education in the three major performance disciplines of drama, dance and singing, activities that can help enormously with self-development. Students are taught by professional staff who are able to draw upon a vast selection of material to stretch children’s imagination beyond the confines of any traditional school syllabus. Classes rotate so that each student gets an hour each of drama, dance and singing at every session. Shorter

Gumigem – teething with style!

90-minute sessions for the 4-6 year olds run alongside the main school and activities take place under one roof and classes are deliberately kept small, no more than15 in each. Twice a year parents and friends get the chance to see the students work and parents are kept in touch with their child’s progress through written reports. There is no pressure of an audition to join, enthusiasm and commitment are all that’s needed. For further information about Stagecoach Stirling, contact Kirsten Campbell on 0131 337 7774 or email stirling@stagecoach. co.uk

Swimming Success for All with SwimEasy!

Bilingual Benefits The Gaelic Parent and Child Group, Croileagan Clach Mhanainn, meet in Menstrie every Tuesday morning and cater for children from 0 – 5. The children (and parents) are introduced to the Gaelic language through the medium of song and play in an informal and friendly atmosphere. Our Playleader, Patricia, is a fluent speaker from Barra who leads us in all our Gaelic speaking activities. You don’t need to speak any Gaelic to come along. We welcome people from all around Clackmannshire, Stirling and Falkirk so why not come along and join in the fun and introduce your child and yourself to Gaelic. For more information call Kerry on 01259 213622 or e-mail croileagancm@hotmail.co.uk.

Fun girls night in!

I am a Dundee mummy and like most mums, I stopped wearing necklaces as my babies would tug, pull and chew on my jewellery. Not wanting anything toxic or harmful for young gums, I thought surely there must be something I can wear which looks to the lay eye like a nice pendant , but baby could enjoy too! That’s when I came up with the idea for a new kind of teething jewellery. Gumigem is new to the UK market and available in two designs and a range of colours. It’s made from silicone, the same as most baby teething toys and meets FDA standards to be safe for baby to chew. It’s BPA, lead, latex and phthalate free! On a long cord, it has plenty of reach for baby, but also has a breakaway clasp so no more sore necks from any strong tugs. It can also be put in the dishwasher or steriliser! Check out www.laughing-lambcreations.co.uk

Fancy a fun night in with the girls? Have a Jamie at Home party and discover Jamie’s beautiful range of home products. Relax, have a laugh with friends and let your JAH representative show you funky products (exclusive to JAH) from the comfort of your home. Hold a party and receive commission towards free products, as well as monthly host discounts. Find out more - contact Susan Chesterman 07821165077 suzchesterman@hotmail.com

families central scotland / issue 3

SwimEasy’s innovative style of teaching provides children with the unique “SwimEasy Passport to Success”, offering small class sizes with the added benefit of our teaching staff in the water. SwimEasy is Scotland’s largest independent provider of swimming lessons for children and adults of all abilities. Not only do we teach children to swim, we specialise in progressing young athletes through into the sport of swimming. We offer specialist One-to-One, One-toTwo and Small Group Classes for children of all abilities at venues throughout Forth Valley, including: Braes High – Falkirk, Larbert High – Stenhousemuir and Donaldson’s School - Linlithgow. SwimEasy – Easter & Summer “RapidTrack” Lessons. Our Specialist holiday “RapidTrack” Courses offer an ideal opportunity to begin swimming lessons or to improve upon your child’s swimming skills and confidence during the Easter and Summer holiday breaks. RapidTrack Lessons will be available at Donaldson’s School in Linlithgow during the week commencing 11th of April and for four weeks from the 18th of July, 2011. Parents wishing to give their child the best opportunity to develop their swimming for safety, fitness and fun should contact us now on 01506 516220 or 0131 466 0764 to discuss their child’s needs. www.swimeasy.co.uk

Donaldson’s Opens Its Doors Donaldson’s School in Linlithgow is offering an opportunity for parents of deaf children, or children with communication difficulties, to take a tour of the school, meet the staff and experience for themselves the state of the art facilities. Taking place on Saturday, 7th May 2011 from 10am to 1pm, prospective parents and education professionals will be welcome to join this informal Information Day. The school’s experienced team will be on hand to show how their specialist teaching methods are helping children and students from nursery to 19 years old. Donaldson’s is a national Grant Aided Special School and pupil placements are jointly funded by the

Scottish Government and local authorities across Scotland. Placements are subject to approval from your local authority; there are no fees for parents to pay. Mary O’Brien, head teacher, said: “Previous Information Days have been well received by prospective parents, particularly those who feel they will benefit from additional support and understanding of their children’s needs. We understand the challenges that face such families and this is an excellent opportunity to demonstrate, through informal meetings and workshops, the range of services that are available to help them.” The school cafe will be open for light refreshments, and a crèche and interpreter are available on request. Further information is available by contacting Kim Pender at Donaldson’s on 01506 841923 or on www. donaldsons.org.uk.

The Illustrators, 12 March – 2 May 2011, The Park Gallery, Callendar House, Callendar Park, Falkirk

n exhibition of contemporary children’s book illustration curated by Julia Donaldson. Julia Donaldson is the author of over 150 books for children and her 1999 book The Gruffalo, illustrated by Axel Scheffler, is now a children’s classic and publishing phenomenon; selling 3 million copies worldwide. She is also the Patron of Artlink Central - a charity which puts artists, musicians and storytellers into schools, hospitals, prisons and community spaces to work with children and adults and help them develop their talent and creativity. As interest in the art of illustration for children has grown considerably in recent years the Park Gallery is delighted to collaborate with Artlink Central

and invite Julia Donaldson to curate ‘The Illustrators’ - an exhibition which presents an overview of contemporary children’s illustration. The exhibition aims to highlight the diverse range of approaches to illustration and focuses on a number of illustrators who have worked with Julia over the years. Featuring original illustrations by, Axel Scheffler, amongst others and sketches, ideas and film, the exhibition will provide an insight into the illustrator’s working methods. Julia will be holding a storytelling workshop on Saturday 9th April. For children 10+ Tickets £7, booking essential. For information about related talks, workshops and events please contact the gallery on 01324 503789 or visit www.falkirkcouncil.gov.uk

Library story, song and rhyme time Falkirk Library Service runs a series of sessions for parents and babies which promote bonding with children and encourage parents to share stories, songs and rhymes with babies and toddlers in a fun and exciting way. For babies 0-18 months, we have our monthly Bounce and Tickle and Baby RhymeTime sessions, in which babies are introduced to nursery rhymes and songs. For toddlers aged 18 months to 3yrs we have Toddleround or Toddle Rhyme Time sessions where we use more action based rhymes and songs to stimulate both parent and child. Again these sessions are once a month. These sessions can last up to 30 minutes and numbers for sessions are limited, with some libraries operating a ticketing scheme. For older children, 3+, we have weekly storytelling sessions where the children are introduced to popular storybooks.

Foster Carers N

eeded

Falkirk council ar time foster care e currently recr uiting for full rs – 18 year s. We for young people aged 10 will be having an evening on the For information about these sessions and for further information on activities that libraries have on information 22 over the next few months contact your local library. Details can be found at www.falkirk.gov.uk/ Falkirk from 7p nd March at The Park Hotel m , libraries carers and qual – 9pm. There will be foster ified social wor kers there on the night able to may have. Please answer any questions that yo u any more inform come along and join us. For at io n pl ea se call or alternatively email fostering@ 01324 508656 Win a fair trade goody bag falkirk.gov.uk Fairtrade fortnight runs from 28th February to 13th March 2011. This year the nation is being asked to show off about buying Fairtrade, which offers 7.5 million people in the developing world a more secure future. To celebrate, Fair Trade Stirling is offering a goody bag of Fairtrade baby items worth over £50 to the person who correctly answers the question below. The goody bag will contain baby clothes from People Tree who create “Sustainable and Fair Trade Fashion”, for more information please visit www.peopletree. co.uk

Competition

Question: On what date does Fairtrade Fortnight start this year? Send your answers with your name and address to editor@familiescentralscotland. co.uk or Families Central Scotland PO Box 21612, Stirling FK7 1DQ Closing date 31st March 2011.

Contact Gail 01259 211218 forthvalley@stepaheadtuition.com

feature article easter

Enjoy quality time with your kids thisByEaster Joanna Parry

hether you’re a working parent looking to spend time with your brood over the Easter weekend, or a full-time mum desperate to fill a long school holiday, here are a few ideas to try out with your children. With a bit of planning and a few inspired ideas, you can avoid the tantrums and arguments and tear your darlings away from the TV and the Wii and enjoy the Easter break, rather than ﬁnding yourself counting down the days until school starts again!

Plan the day The holidays are a great time to bring back some of the old fashioned games and spend real time with your kids. It can be hard at first, throwing yourself into games and

activities, but this is the stuff that childhood memories are made of. It is important to plan your day. If you let them drift from one cartoon to the other they’ll get frustrated very soon!

Activities at home With a little thought, you can come up with dozens of fun things to do at home, from building castles out of rubbish to dens in the garden, but when you run out of ideas, here are a few more. • invest in some Play-Doh, art supplies and face paints and get creative • hardboil some eggs and paint with food colouring. When they are dry they are great for egg rolling - if you haven’t got a hill, a slide will do! • water painting - paint with a clean paintbrush and a pot of water outside on walls, paving slabs, fences. It’s very effective and the sun removes the evidence! • home camping – hang a tablecloth over furniture, add a torch and a sleeping bag and have some fun!

•

play volleyball over a washing line. make salt dough with 3 cups of plain flour, 1 cup salt and 1 cup water. Model it like playdough and dry out finished models in a cool oven. Then paint and varnish. treasure hunt - hide toys or sweets around the home and give your kids clues to find them. Kids like setting the hunts too. Alternatively, devise a nature trail where they have to find a series of items such as different coloured leaves. set up a home cinema in your living room: close the curtains, rearrange the furniture, make tickets and prepare snacks before putting on your favourite DVD. hit the park and get active. Borrow the nearest friendly dog and go for a walk, or set up an obstacle course in the garden with buckets, chairs, tables, garden rakes…anything goes really! encourage your kids to dig a vegetable patch of their own in your garden. If you don’t have any outside space, make a mini garden by filling a plant tray with earth and arranging small sprigs of leaves, daisies and grass over the soil. Try small pebbles for paths and foil for a pond.

Invite their friends over

• decorate biscuits by mixing icing sugar and water in a bowl to make runny icing and decorate with sprinkles or smarties. • pass the parcel. Why save it for parties? Your kids can do the wrapping too using old newspaper, with prizes as simple as a sticker or packet of raisins. • make pasta jewellery • roll a sheet of newspaper into a ball and

families central scotland / issue 3

When you’ve run out of ideas, invite your children’s friends over to play. You may think double the children means double trouble, but it’s often easier for them to have playmates around to entertain each other. It also means they will get invited back, giving you a much-needed break!

Give them some jobs to do for pocket money Children like to earn their own money and to get a bit of responsibility – they will often jump at the chance to do a chore that you have been putting off for ages.

Give them a treat There is loads to do during the Easter holidays in the Stirling, Falkirk and Clacks areas. We have listed your favourites on the next page.

Get Active Stirling Cycle Training

We will be running on road cycling courses for beginners in Stirling during the Easter holidays. Course 1: Sunday 3 April 2011 to Wednesday 6 April 2011 10 am - 12 noon Course 2: Monday 18th April 2011 to Thursday 21 April 2011 10am -12 noon. Suitable for those who can ride in control but have not done any previous cycle proficiency training or feel they need more practice to enable them to cycle safely on the road. Cost: £45 per child, must be booked and paid in advance. Call O7966 2O1 519 for details and booking or visit www.stirlingcycletraining. com

Enjoy a ball Classes Break up the school holidays with our fun packed activities for girls and boys aged 4-9. Children will try out a wide range of sports, games and creative activities. There will be a healthy snack and juice. You don’t need to have been to the classes before. Classes will be running at St Ninians, Bridge of Allan and Dunblane on various dates for 2 hr and 4 hr sessions. Booking essential. Call Claire for details on 07793 545180 or email claire. beattie@enjoy-a-ball.com

Fitkids Lazy town Classes Easter LazyTown camp - Bridge of Allan parish church hall. Monday, Tuesday and Friday both weeks 4th April - 15th April 10-12am 2 hours of LazyTown games, sports skills, health related arts and crafts and FREE healthy tuck shop. Children can be left with fully trained, disclosure checked staff to learn about healthy eating and get active like their LazyTown superhero! £6 for 2 hours. Visit teamstirling@fitkid.co.uk or 08445 605451

Little Kicks Do your children have lots of energy to burn? Come and try a FREE TASTER CLASS with Little Kicks (subject to availability). Would you like your child to develop their football skills and develop physically, while at the same time increase their learning in other areas such as listening, problem solving, colours, counting, team work and respect for others? All our classes are held indoors in large halls with lots of room for running around and having fun. Little Kicks 18mths-23mths, Junior Kicks

Age 2-3 , Mighty Kicks 3 -Age 5 Mega Kicks 5-7th Birthday. To book your FREE TASTER CLASS phone 01786842973 or e-mail ahenderson@littlekicks.co.uk www. littlekicks.co.uk

feature article easter

Ideas for the Easter holidays in Central Scotland

We asked local mums and dads for their suggestions for the Easter holidays. The weather is getting better so there are more opportunities to get out and about however we have also included wet weather tips as well in case we should have a couple of April showers!

Outdoor activities

Easter Exercise Fun in Falkirk Falkirk Active Schools are offering another Easter Holiday packed with free activities to keep the children of Falkirk active. The programme will run from the 4th – 8th April and the 11th – 15th April in various venues throughout Falkirk. The holiday programme is open to all children who live within the Falkirk Council area and will include activities such as free running, ultimate frisbee, street dance, nursery Zumba, basketball, cheerleading and much more. The Easter Holiday brochure will be handed out in Falkirk Primary Schools and will be available for download from the Falkirk Active Schools website during the month of March. This includes a full schedule of activities and booking procedures. For more information on Active Schools visit www.activeschoolsfalkirk. co.uk

The Peak Easter Camp The Peak Easter Camps offer a wide range of fun sports and physical activities from the 4th to the 8th April. Peak Play is half day sessions for 5 to 7 yr olds. For 8-10 yr olds Peak Fun, and for the 11-13 yr olds Peak Fit are whole day sessions from 8.30-4.30 Also on offer throughout the week are Scottish FA Mini Kickers (3-4 yrs) , Scottish FA Goal Getters (5-6 yrs) and Scottish FA Football Skills (7-14yrs). For more details or to book phone Forthbank on 01786 448308 or visit www.the-peak-stirling.org.uk

Many of you have recommended Briarlands Farm, which hopes to open on Saturday 2nd April. Please check before going out at www.briarlandsfarm.co.uk The safari park opens on Saturday 19th March www. blairdrummond.com. Check out activities going on at the Falkirk Wheel. www. thefalkirkwheel.co.uk The Bo’ness Steam Railway reopens on the 2nd April and there is a great museum round the back where children can climb on some of old trains. www.srps.org.uk/railway

History in Action

The central belt it full of historic buildings. Why not visit Stirling Castle, Linlithgow Palace, Doune Castle, Blackness Castle, Bannockburn Heritage Centre, the Wallace Monument, and the Old Town Jail in Stirling. Check out the following websites for details of times and any activities that might be going on. www.historicscotland.gov.uk www.nts.org.uk www. nationalwallacemonument.com

Free Activities

There are many free activities going on if you know where to look. Check out your local library that often has a range of Easter activities for all ages. Remember that the Smith Gallery in Stirling is free, as is Callendar House in Falkirk. Both have kids corners with activities or dressing up as well as the all-important café. The Smith has a fantastic Garden and Callendar House has a great park. Visit www.smithartgallery.demon. co.uk and www.falkirk.gov.uk. There are loads of great parks in the area and miles of cycle paths suitable for kids. Our favourites include cycling along the canals (particularly from Polmont to Linlithgow) and from Dunblane to Doune on the cycle path. There will also be a special holiday parade in Falkirk town centre on Saturday 2nd Aril see www. falkirkbid.com for details

Wet weather activities

Unfortunately it sometimes rains in the holidays so how about a trip to AMF bowling in Stirling www.amfbowling.co.uk Also check our out and about page for what is on at the Macrobert Arts centre in Stirling, the Bo’ness Hippodrome and Falkirk Town hall. Don’t forget the soft plays at Springkerse View www.springkerseview.co.uk and Bearheart Castle www.bearheartcastle.co.uk in Stirling, Cadwinkles in Falkirk www.cadwinkle.co.uk and Kids World in Alloa. www.kidz-world. co.uk

Choosing a Nursery guide

Choosing a Nursery – Childcare and Early Learning

hildcare comes in a range of shapes and sizes, including willing relatives, nurseries, childminders and playgroups Apart from you of course, do nurseries offer the best childcare? That depends on what would suit your child – and finding a good nursery. If your child would thrive on the constant stimulation of other children and adults they trust, using a wide range of toys and outdoor facilities then the answer is probably yes. Other advantages include year-round care and the experience of qualified staff, which can be particularly reassuring for first-time parents. When and where to start? Nurseries with the best reputations tend to be hot property, and baby units are more scarce than places for 2-5 year-olds, so start looking well ahead of the time you’ll need a place, and join a waiting list if necessary. Some mothers start while they are still pregnant; others wait until their child is a babe in arms and they have a better idea of what they need. Your child’s needs Once you’ve drawn up a shortlist of the nurseries you are considering, go and look around and ask lots of questions to see if they would suit your child. Consider issues such as your child’s daily

e-mail : arnhall@peartreenurseries.co.uk

routine (nap times, type of food provided etc), staff qualifications and experience, staff to child ratios and what the staff turnover is like. Check that you are happy with the cleanliness of the premises, security, the policy on discipline and late collections. Ask to see the latest Care Commission report or read it online www.carecommission. com Find out if there are any extra charges for nappies, meals, certain activities and the cost of the deposit to go on the waiting list. Factor in the time it will take you to travel to and from the nursery, probably during rush hour. After all this, the most important thing is to absorb the atmosphere and look at whether the children are relaxed and happy, and members of staff are responsive and caring. Nurseries in a nutshell Private Nursery • A useful option for working parents, day nurseries are typically open from 8am to early evening and children can stay for all or part of the day. • Some parents feel uneasy about leaving their baby in sole care, no matter how well-qualified that person is. It’s reassuring to know that nursery staff can safely take breaks, and that you are covered if a member of staff is off sick. • Consistency - your child can stay in the same environment from the day you go back to work until they start school. • Social environment - children who attend nursery find it easier to settle into routines when they start primary school. Nursery classes in schools • A first step into school, although a school nursery place does not automatically guarantee a place at that school. • Convenient if you are already dropping siblings at the school. • Stimulation - some children are ready for school earlier than others and readily take to structured, educational play. • Age-specific activities are geared to the school children they are becoming rather than the babies they used to be. The cons: • Sessions tend to be just 2 hours which is not practical for many families. Fulltime places are few and far between. Out of School Clubs • Out of school clubs are for school-age children to play, learn and have fun in groups.

families central scotland / issue 3

• • •

• •

By Robina Cowan

Usually based in or near schools, and are mostly used by families where parents work. Playworkers will often pick children up from local schools where the club is separate from the school. Most out of school clubs provide places for between 10 and 40 children although some are smaller and others are larger. Some clubs also provide places for three and four year olds to fit around nursery or preschool education. There are breakfast clubs, after-school clubs and holiday playschemes. These services are regulated by the Care Commission and are subject to annual inspection (unless they are caring for children for under 2 hours a day and fewer than 6 days a year).

Help with the costs Nursery fees vary greatly, depending on location, demand and what is offered, but can be from around £100 to over £200 per week. 1. Local authorities receive government hours funding so they can offer 12 a week of early years education to all three and four year olds from the term after their third birthday. If you choose a nursery which costs more than the funding or need more hours, you top up the difference. 2. Child tax credits and working tax credits are available to help with childcare costs. From April 2011, the ‘child’ element of the child tax credit will be increased for families earning up to £16,190 a year with an aboveinflation increase. At the same time though, families earning over £41,400 will no longer be eligible for the full tax credit. 3. Some employers offer childcare vouchers which staff can opt to receive instead of part of their salary. Parents can save up to £1000 a year by reducing their income tax and national insurance contributions.

A to Z of local child care provision

Acrewood Nursery 35 Colquhoun Street Stirling FK7 7PX 01786 462621 www.acrewoodnursery.com Also offer After School Care 8.00am to 6.00pm Arnhall Day Nusery Garden Cottages Keir Estate Dunblane 01786 822391 www.arnhallnursery.co.uk 8.00am to 6.00pm

Bright Beginnings 147 Henderson Street Bridge of Allan FK9 4RJ 01786 474712 www.bertramsnurserygroup.com 8.00am to 6.00pm Bright Beginnings 2 Polmaise Rd Stirling FK7 9JJ 01786 462233 www.bertramnurserygroup.com 8.00am to 6.00pm Bright Beginnings 21 St Crispins Place Falkirk 01324 633327 www.bertramnurserygroup.com 8.00am to 6.00pm

Carousel 8 Merchiston Rd Bainsford Falkirk FK2 7JP 01324 630101 www.carousel-nursery.co.uk 8.00am to 6.00pm Carronbank House Nursery Carrongrove Rd Carron Nr Falkirk FK2 8NZ 01324 882589 8.00am to 6.00pm Chapter 1 Childcare Stirling Royal Infirmary Livilands Stirling FK8 2AU 01786 465112 www.scottishnurseries. co.uk 7.00am to 6.30pm Cherry Tree Nursery East Beancross Farm Polmont 01324 716900 8.00am to 6.oopm

Flying Start Nursery Church Manse Main Street Sauchie. Fk10 3JX 01259 217601 www.flyingstartnursery.co.uk 8.00am to 5.00pm

Glenbervie Kindergarden Graham Avenue Larbert FK5 4PF 01324 555335 www.glenberviekindergarden.com 7.00am to 6.00pm

Glenbervie Kindergarden Carron Grange House Carrongrange Ave Stenhousemuir FK5 3BQ 01324 555551 www.glenberviekindergarden.com 7.00am to 6.00pm Glenview Cottage Nursery Glenview Ochil Street Tullibody 01259 212449 www.glenview-nursery.co.uk

Hummingbird House Nursery Ramoyle Dunblane FK15 0BD 01786 821950 www.bertramnurserygroup.com 8.00am to 6.00pm

Kidz World Nursery Medway House Kelliebank Alloa FK10 1NU 01259 928007 www.kidz-world.co.uk Also offer after school care The Kidz Stop 151 Dean Road Bo’ness EH51 0HE 01506 828007 www.thekidzstop.co.uk Also offers after school care.

A-Z local nursery guide N

Old Doune Nursery 4 Old Doune Rd Dunblane FK15 9AG 01786 822854 www.olddounenursery.co.uk 8.00am to 6.00pm

Little Acorns Nursery 12 Bedford Place Alloa FK10 1LJ 01259 720142 www.littlestarsnurseries.co.uk 8.00am to 6.00pm Little Stars Nursery Craigforth House Prudential Stirling FK9 4UE 01786 445552 www.littlestarsnurseries. co.uk 8.00am-6.00pm Little Stars Nusery Falkirk Community Stadium Westfield Falkirk FK2 9AH 01324 636377 www.littlestarsnurseries.co.uk 8.00am to 6.00pm

Meadows Nursery Torwood Rd Achenbowie FK7 8AS 01786 815545 8.00am to 6.00pm

Wellgreen Nursery Stirling. 01786 447217

Stirling Council Arnprior Nursery Arnprior 01786 870729

Tiptoes Childrens Day Nursery Valeview Stenhousemuir Larbert 01324 551444 8.00am to 8.00pm

Camelon Day Nursery Camelon 01324 501800

Heathrigg Nursery Slamannan 01324 851574

Croftamie Nursery Croftamie 01360 660147 Doune Nursery Doune 01786 842734

Wellside Kindergarten 12 Wellside Place Falkirk 01324 626668 8.00am to 6.00pm

Falkirk Council

Grangemouth Day Nursery Grangemouth 01324 504570

Cornton Nursery Cornton 01786 831582

Wee Acorns Perth Road Dunblane FK15 0BU 01786 826982 www.weeacorns.co.uk 8.00am to 6.00pm

Stirling Children’s Information Service 01786 442 626 www.stirlingcouncil.gov.uk

Denny Nursery Denny 01324 504270

Baker Street Nursery Stirling 01786 473453

Whitecraigs Nursery 31 St Ninians Rd Stirling FK8 2HE 01786 475533 7.00am-6.00pm www.whitecraigsnursery.co.uk

Raploch Nursery Raploch Community Campus 01786 272337

Clackmannanshire Council Early Years & Out-of-School Care Tel: 01259 452 453 www.clacksweb.org.uk

Lecropt Nursery The Old School House Henderson Street Bridge of Allan FK9 4NB 01786 834596 www.lecroptnursery.co.uk 8.00am to 6.00pm

Clackmannanshire Council

Tower Nursery Alloa 01259 216748

Rosemount Nursery 4 Macnab Street Dollar FK14 7DJ 01259 742571 8.00am to 6.00pm Also offers after school care

Whistlebrae Nature Kindergarten Feddal Lodge Feddal Road Braco FK15 9 RA 01786 880714 www.mindstretchers.co.uk 8.00am to 6,00pm

Park Drive Nursery Bannockburn 01786 816766

ABC Nursery Alloa 01259 724900

Kool Kidz Nursery 34 Winchester Ave Denny FK6 6QG 01324 825149 www.koolkidznursery.org.uk 8.00am to 6.00pm

Local Authorities offer day care in the following nurseries. check the local authority for more information.

Larbert Day Nursery Larbert 01324 503560 Queenstreet Nursery Falkirk 01324 508910

Fallin Nusery Fallin 01786 815628

Woodburn Day Nursery Falkirk 01324 501870

Killin Nursery Killin 01567 820889

Falkirk Childcare Information Service 01324 506 632 www.falkirkcouncil.org

Zetland Nursery Care Solutions 50a Bo’ness Rd Grangemouth 01324 486031 8.00am to 6,00pm Useful websites www.daynurseries.co.uk www.scottishchildcare.gov.uk Most private nurseries offer places for babies from 6 weeks to 5 years and are open www.scottishnurseries.com from 8.00am to 6.00pm but please check individual details with each nursery.

Kidz World Nursery, After School Club & Soft Play UNLIMITED PLAY, JUICE & COFFEE MON-FRI (EXC SCHOOL HOLS)

9.30-12 ONLY £5

CARE

ALL INCLUSIVE DAYCARE FOR 6 WEEKS TO 5 YEARS 4 WEEKS FEE FREE AFTER SCHOOL CLUB FOR ALLOA/TULLIBODY

PLAY

3 TIER PLAY FRAME 4 LANE SLIDE PLASMA TV’S COMFY SOFAS

BABY & TODDLER AREA

PARTY

EAT

PARTIES START AT £7.95 PER CHILD 2 HOURS PLAY UNLIMITED JUICE PARTY BOX CAKE CEREMONY

SPECIALTY TEAS & COFFEES

HOME BAKING EXTENSIVE KIDS MENU

Medway House, Kelliebank, Alloa, FK10 1NU Soft Play 01259 720850 ~ Nursery 01259 928007 ~ info@kidz-world.co.uk

NURSERY KIDS RECEIVE FREE ENTRY TO THE SOFT PLAY UNTIL THEY LEAVE (MIN 2 SESSIONS PER WEEK )

Local nurseries Hummingbird House Nursery

Hummingbird House Nursery and Out of School Care Service is situated in the beautiful city of Dunblane, with its calm and peaceful community. There are easy links to the motorway network, excellent parking for drop off and pick up and just a short walk to the local train station. The service is very much a part of the local community making links with Dunblane, Newton and St. Mary Primary Schools, Dunblane High and Queen Victoria High and providing both nursery and out of school care services. Children are cared for by a dedicated team of childcare practitioners who work closely with parents to ensure exceptional service standards are delivered at all times. Through partnership working staff, parents and children have created a very special setting with an ethos of care and respect where each child is valued as a unique and beautiful human being. The Nursery Manager, Trisha Brownlee, and the atmosphere she has created were highly commended at a recent national awards ceremony. The nursery is a recognised Investor in People and an ECO schools centre and operates in partnership with Stirling Council to offer funded pre-school education sessions. There are limited spaces available at the nursery please contact Trisha for further information. 01786 821950 Ramoyle, Dunblane

Bright Beginnings Nurseries

Bright Beginnings Nurseries have been established in the Stirling area for over a decade operating from sites in both Stirling and Bridge of Allan.

The Stirling nursery is housed in a stunning two storey property in the Kings Park area. There are dedicated departments for each age group based in carefully planned and resourced play rooms, each with direct access to fabulously designed and equipped play areas.Staff and children also make excellent use of the nearby Kings Park facilities, enjoy walks in the surrounding area and are regular visitors to the library.

Kool Kidz Nursery

Kool Kidz Nursery has been operating since June 2006 and has an enthusiastic staff team made up of 15 fully qualified and experienced staff members which with a very low turnover means we can provide good continuity of care

The Bridge of Allan nursery is to be found on the perimeter of the grounds of Stirling University in a two storey stone villa with oodles of character. This picturesque property provides four dedicated play areas each well designed and equipped with a range of quality furnishings and play equipment.The nursery has its own play area and is fortunate to have access to the fabulous amenities found in the university and its grounds. Staff and children make regular use of the local park, the library, the MacRobert Centre and leisure facilities all found within minutes of the nursery. There are limited vacancies available at each site and interested families should contact the nurseries direct to arrange a visit. Stirling – 01786 462233 Bridge of Allan – 01786 474712

At Kool Kidz Nursery our aim, through partnership and encouragement is to provide a caring, welcoming and stimulating environment which supports and values each individuals needs. We follow the Curriculum for Excellence and the Birth to three documents when planning experiences for the children in our care. Kool Kidz Nursery operates Monday – Friday 8-6pm. We have an extensive secure nursery garden and our very own nursery rabbit called Roy which the children enjoy caring for. We have three separate playrooms catering for children 0-2, 2-3 & 3-5 years old. The nursery has a security entry system and follows a very strict security policy. We also provide nutritional lunches and snacks which are prepared and cooked on site. As a parent this takes away the panic of what to provide on a daily basis for lunch at nursery and allows your child to taste and enjoy different foods as well as building on their social skills and table manners. For more information visit:- www. koolkidznursery.org.uk

Arnhall Day Nursery

Arnhall Nursery is a private day nursery which can accommodate children from birth up to 5 years. In partnership with Stirling Council and graded Excellent and Very Good by the Care Commission in their 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 between 8am and 6pm, your child will be cared for by qualified and fully trained staff. For further details or to arrange a visit please contact the Nursery direct on 01786 822391.

families central scotland / issue 3

First4Kids - Out of school care

First4Kids is part of Falkirk `Out of School Care` Network. We are a charitable non-profit making organisation who, provide affordable quality childcare in the Falkirk Area during termtime 3-6pm and all School Holidays and In-Service days 8am-6pm. You do not need to use any of the `Networks` term-time clubs to use our

holiday clubs which are situated in Falkirk, Grangemouth, Denny, Larbert and Langlees areas.

Visit our website today at www. thekidzstop.co.uk or call Eleanor on 01506 828007

Our qualified staff will encourage your child to make the most of his time spent at the club by providing a wide range of activities to suit all ages and abilities. During holidays more time consuming projects can be undertaken e.g. cooking, nature trails, challenging play activities etc. We have visiting specialists during the holidays that bring their knowledge & equipment to fit into the `theme of the week` e.g. transport, safety, animals, sport, nature, environmental etc. Healthy snacks will be provided morning and afternoon. Visit www.first4kids.co.uk or call 01324671344 for more information or to arrange a free visit to any of the term-time or Holiday Clubs.

The Kidz Stop Nursery

The Kidz Stop opened for business in Bo’ness in 2003, and quickly earned a reputation for high quality childcare. In 2010 The Kidz Stop were runners up across Scotland in the competition for NDNA Nursery of the Year. Nomination for this prestigious award is proposed solely by parents and is a huge vote of their confidence in the service we provide. Our qualified and highly trained staff team ensure that there is a varied range of activities to enhance the children’s social and academic development. Our partnership status for the provision of preschool education enables parents to access grant funding while the children benefit from input from the peripatetic teacher. Parents choose The Kidz Stop because: • • • • • •

Our staff are carefully chosen and committed to regular training in current practice Our status as a partnership nursery with Falkirk Council Our dedicated cook provides freshly cooked, varied, and healthy meals daily Our gardens offer a variety of outdoor play opportunities Children can attend right the way through from Nursery to our Out of School Club Our Holiday Club offers a variety of indoor and outdoor activities and trips covering all school holidays

Local nurseries

and meet the staff, on the same day they are also having an eco fashion show by the children and a Spring fair. During the next 3 months the first 10 new customers will qualify for their first month fees FREE subject to availability and terms and conditions. Telephone 01786 445552 for more information or download our brochure from our website www. littlestarsnurseries.co.uk

Little Stars Nursery

Nestling in 20 Acres of parklands, just off junction 10 of the M9 in the beautiful Craigforth Campus. Little Stars Nursery is well located for local businesses with staff from Prudential, Capita, William Lees, Sepa and the Riverhouse Restaurant all using the nursery for their little ones. Parents from nearby Dunblane, Bridge of Allan and Stirling find its location perfect for dropping off and collecting their loved ones. But location is not the main factor the nursery, under the guidance of Miss Katie McDonald recently achieved 5 star rating from the Care Commission, for the excellent work she and the staff are doing. Katie is a qualified primary school teacher and is responsible for overseeing preschool education not only in Stirling but also in sister nurseries in Alloa, Falkirk and Glasgow. The facilities are second to none, with a dedicated sleep room, soft play and even a sensory room for relaxation and discovery.

But it is outside where Little Stars is ahead of the competition with wonderful walks, outdoor classroom, play park and new for 2011 a 100ft gym trail which goes the full length of the rear of Craigforth House and will encourage outdoor play and learning. Healthy eating and fitness are an important part of your childs day so the nursery provides a healthy snack in the morning and afternoon consisting of fruit and vegetables. The nursery also works in partnership with Fitkids and Lazytown instructors put the fun into fitness. Other visitors to the nursery include a music teacher, language teacher, health visitor and dental hygenist.

Kidz World Nursery

Kidz World Nursery at Kelliebank, Alloa brings a new concept in Childcare to Clackmannanshire & Stirling. An all inclusive package is available to parents who just want to bring their child to nursery. Nappies, wipes, creams, lunch, drinks, snacks......it’s all included. That along with only having to pay for 48 weeks and the provision of a nursery web cam where parents can securely log in to see their child at play is already proving very popular with local parents. We have a baby room with sensory area and separate sleep room, 2-3 room with direct access to the garden and the 4000 sq ft soft play. We also have a huge pre school room for 3-5 year olds. The added bonus of sending your child to our nursery is anyone who attends for a minimum of 2 sessions per week receive free entry to Kidz World to use at ANY time. Kidz World Soft Play and Cafe is open every day for play sessions and parties and provides a fun, safe and relaxing meeting place for parents & children alike. Only £5 until 12pm on weekdays will get you unlimited play, juice and coffee!! If you would like a parents handbook or more information please call 01259 720850 or email info@kidz-world.co.uk.

Little Stars is having an Open Day on the 2nd April from 10am-2pm where prospective parents can view the facilities

parent to parent

mma lives in Falkirk with husband Alan and 2 kids Erin (6) and Daniel (3) . She set up her own photography business almost 2 years ago and specialises in studio style portraits from people’s own homes and wedding photography. Emma also works part time as a travel consultant for Thomas Cook as well and is currently working on production of a short film that she wrote, so juggling all that with family life means she is always on the go!

To find out more about her photography visit www.emmagrayphotography.co.uk or visit her facebook page - Emma Gray Photography. Why you like living where you do? I have always found Falkirk such a friendly and welcoming place. I always find myself chatting to complete strangers, and have met so many interesting people since living here - many are now friends!!! Favourite shop: Scarlett Ribbons on Glebe Street - I love all the unusual and quirky gifts you can find in this shop, and the ladies that work there are always so helpful and friendly. Favourite Park: The kids always love going to Zetland Park in Grangemouth. There is something there for kids of all ages and abilities so its great if you have kids of different age groups to all be in the one place and keep everyone happy and entertained. Favourite day out: We love going to Briarlands Farm just outside Stirling. On a nice sunny day its great to meet up with the other mums, take a picnic and sit and let the day go by while the kids are running about, jumping on the giant bouncy pillows and climbing on the giant haystacks. It’s great value for money and the kids love it. Favourite Child Friendly Restaurant: I love Behind the Wall, even though its not specifically targeted at people with kids, the staff are always more than happy to accommodate you, and the kids love the food there. When my daughter was at the

school nursery in the afternoon session, all the mums used to meet there for lunch on a Friday and take the toddlers with us too....The staff welcomed us back every week and gave the kids crayons and things to draw on so the mums could all relax. No parent should be without: Some ‘me’ time! I think everyone should treat themselves to a break away from the kids on a regular basis and not feel the slightest bit guilty about it! Everyone needs to re-charge batteries to be better equipped to deal with what family life throws at you, and if you are happier, the family is happier! I always try and organise a regular ‘mums night out’ so we can all let our hair down together! All I can say on those nights is Falkirk, watch out!!!! Parenting pet hates: Books that tell you how to bring up your children and tell you that you are doing it wrong if you don’t follow them! Having had 2 children I totally know that what works for one does not work for the other as they are 2 totally different personalities. I’m thinking of writing my own book called the alternative guide to parenting and giving tips like changing the clocks forward in the house to make the kids think it’s bedtime already when I’ve had enough (then setting them back an hour so I get a long lie in the morning! ) Most embarassing moment: We went to an ABBA tribute night about 5 years ago up at The Three Kings...now I thought EVERYONE would be dressed up...how wrong was I!!!! I turned up with my blonde wig, flares, false eyelashes...the lot....only to find everyone else dressed in formal evening wear! I had the best night out of everyone there and got crowned the dancing queen by the band! Best Childrens book: The Gruffalo by Julia Donaldson. The kids love me doing all the silly voices of the different characters. I went in to read it to all the primary one classes at Erin’s school last year and it went down a treat!

great value schoolwear all year round

Made to last qualty school uniforms from Trutex, and a super speedy embroidery service, makes us the first choice for school uniforms in Falkirk.

Call: 01324 618810 Trutex, 32 Vicar Street, Falkirk, Scotland FK1 1JB E-mail: falkirk@trutex.com

families central scotland / issue 3

Best DVD: Toy Story or Finding Nemo...in fact any of the Disney Pixar ones! Most played with Toys: We all love playing the Wii especially Mario Cart ...we’re all very competitive! Most successful food: If you want a quick easy sweet treat to make up and take anywhere and you don’t have much time on your hands then try making Mars Bar Cake and you are sure to impress. If you want Emma’s recipe then look on our webpage at www.familiescentralscotland.co.uk for the recipe and a fuller interview with Emma.

Emma’s Recommendations Briarlands Farm www.briarlandsfarm.co.uk Behind the Wall www.behaindthewall.co.uk Scarlet Ribbons Glebe Street. 01324 612680

Sleep solutions

Jo Tantum

sn’t life hard enough without having to live on very little sleep? Sleep deprivation has been named as a torture technique because that is exactly what it is. If your child doesn’t sleep, you become a living zombie; you are probably sleeping in different beds, snapping at everyone, getting over emotional at everything. You start looking at the floor in the supermarket and think if I can just find a quiet corner, I’ll have a quick nap... There are parents everywhere reading this and thinking yes that’s me - HELP! Well, don’t worry, help has arrived, and whatever problem you may be having and however you got there, it can be fixed. Many parents start off one of two ways with their delicious newborn; they will either have an angelic baby who sleeps all the time, anywhere, or a baby who is very alert and doesn’t seem to want to sleep. Most babies, including the seemingly angelic ones, may well become the baby that doesn’t want to sleep.

The reason this happens, so that you can be forewarned, is in the first two weeks your baby is sleepy and after this they will wake up and will be hungry. Most parents are told to feed on demand and so by the time your baby is able to sleep for 12 hours through the night (yes it is possible!) he or she will be used to being fed to sleep and that is what they will continue to do. When you aren’t getting any sleep, you will do anything to get some. So out of desperation your baby will be picking up bad habits on how to get to sleep. Rocking your baby and using a dummy all contribute to your baby’s inability to go to sleep by themselves. Firstly, don’t panic. There is always a way to re-teach them. It’s certainly harder as your baby gets older, especially after a year, but it’s still achievable. Setting up a good bedtime routine will reassure your baby, and for younger babies, a dream feed before you go to bed also helps them to sleep longer in the night. Making sure your baby has lots of daytime naps will stop your baby becoming

overtired. For example, a newborn will need to sleep every hour and a 6 monthold every 2 hours. Overtiredness is one of the main reasons that your baby finds it difficult to go into a deep sleep. You need to be consistent with whichever routine you choose, and also realise that it took time for this to become a habit so it may take time for it to work, but be strong, encourage your baby and it will work. Your baby craves some sleep as much as you do and what better lesson for them to learn, and for you to teach them…how to go to sleep!

Baby Sensory

10 Top tips from the experts

You & your baby will be amazed as you are taken on a journey of discovery of the senses. Something different every week! Developed by Dr Lin Day, child psychologist and writer for the early years education magazine, the programme offers a wealth of knowledge on baby’s development and great techniques on how to both excite and soothe baby.

Start a simple bedtime routine as soon as possible. A bath, massage and feed in the bedroom will help relax your baby. 2. Unless they had a low birth weight, don’t wake your baby up in the night to feed. Let them sleep – and you can too. Instead, give them a dream feed at 11pm. 3. Don’t change nappies in the night after 11pm unless dirty. 4. Try not to rock your baby or feed them to sleep. Cuddle them until they’re calm, then put them in the cot while they’re awake, but drowsy. 5. Your baby should always be awake when put in the cot so they know what is happening. 6. The room should be very dark for all sleeps but not pitch black. 7. Remember you only have a sleep issue if you are not getting enough sleep. Don’t compare yourself to all your friends. 8. When planning to put a sleep routine in place always start your day and end your day at the same time. 9. Be prepared to persevere, allow yourself four nights of the same routine and approach and then reassess. 10. Do not let your baby or child become overtired, they will be even harder to settle.

Good Luck ! Jo Tantrum is a leading baby sleep expert, for more information visit www.greatvine.com/ jo-tantum

Award winning baby sensory classes now running in Stirling, Falkirk, Denny and Polmont! Aid and stimulate baby’s development through music, exploratory play, dancing, light shows, bubbles, puppet shows, balls, textures, baby signing, baby massage and so much more!

Our mums call it the highlight of their week! For a FREE taster class please contact Victoria on 01786 475200/07939329954/stirling@ babysensory.co.uk or see www.babysensory. co.uk for more details.

Loving hands, gentle touch

aby Bliss Massage’s new, ultra relaxing classes are now taking place in Stirling. Based on the International Association of Massage’s programme, all the necessary strokes and techniques are taught to enable you to give your baby or infant a blissful massage from head to toe. The health benefits of baby massage are wellknown, including aiding digestion, reducing colic, increasing immunity and helping the babies learn to sleep better through relaxation. Massage also helps parents or carers to bond with their child by creating a special, quiet time with them. Classes can begin from approximately six weeks of age. A group session runs for five weeks, each weekly class lasting one hour. Class sizes are purposely kept small to enable everyone to feel relaxed. One-to-one or private courses are also available. Baby massage doesn’t cost much but the benefits can last a lifetime. Once you have learnt the techniques all you need is a little time, some natural oil and a loving touch. For more information or to get booked onto a course please contact Karen on 07578648277 or email her at babyblissmassage@yahoo.co.uk

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.

Friday 4th March

Falkirk Farmers Market High Street 10-4pm Saturday 5th March Wildlife Photography for everyone – Jupiter Wildlife Centre, Grangemouth You don’t have to be a photography whiz to take amazing photos of wildlife. Bring a camera if you can. We have a few that can be borrowed. All under 16s must be accompanied by an adult. Free but booking essential. Contact the Jupiter Ranger Stephen Owen on 01324 486475 or email jupiterranger@ swt.org.uk 2.00pm till 4.00pm The Sponge Bob Square Pants Movie (U) Bo’ness Hippodrome 11.00am Sunday 6th March Toy Story 3 (PG) Macrobert 1.30pm Little Seedlings Club at Dobbies. Children are invited to take part in a FREE, hands on workshop to learn about pumpkins and other vegetables. For full details on times and how to join Dobbies Little Seedlings Club please contact Dobbies Garden World Stirling on 01786 458860. Saturday 12th March Fair Trade Ceilidh at the Bridge of Allan Parish Church, for details go to www.fairtradestirling.org or email fairtradestirling@hotmail.com NCT Nearly New Sale 1.00 -3.00pm at the Bridge of Allan Parish Church hall, Keir Street Bridge of Allan, see www.nctcentralscotland.org for details. Stirling Farmers Market Port Street 10-4pm

Dunblane Potato Day at Cathedral Halls Dunblane, 10am - 2pm. Pooh’s Heffalump Movie (U) Macrobert 1.30pm The Secret Garden (U) Bo’ness Hippodrome 11.00am Sunday 13th March Folded Feather present Suitcase Circus at the Macrobert Suitcase Circus is a delightfully heartwarming and interactive family-friendly puppetry spectacular. Suitable for ages 4 + For details contact the Macrobert on 01786 466666 or visit www. macrobert.org Plutot La Vie presents... By the Seat of Your Pants at the Falkirk Town Hall The world of three men and a chair! From the creators of the enchantingly absurd A Clean Sweep comes a fast, visual and funny clown show for family audiences: Suitable for ages 7+ For details and times visit www.falkirk.gov. uk or phone 01324 506850. Tickets can be purchased at The Steeple Box office in Falkirk Pooh’s Heffalump Movie (U) Macrobert 1.30pm Wednesday 6th March STORYTELLING at The Park Gallery, Callendar House. Come along to the gallery and hear your favourite Julia Donaldson stories, 10.30am to 11am Free, drop in, with support from Falkirk Council Library Services Also available on the following dates 19 March, 5, 12, 19 and 26 April Saturday 19th March Craft Fair at Dunblane Cathedral Halls 10.30am to 4.00pm Admission 50p with accompanied children free.

Thursday 24th March to Saturday 26th March Starcatchers and Hazel DarwinEdwards presents...Round in Circles at the Macrobert Be part of a loopy journey where you can imagine, watch and play. Suitable for ages 1-3 For times and details contact the Macrobert on 01786 466666 or visit www. macrobert.org Saturday 26th March

The Kid (U) Bo’ness Hippodrome 11.00am Sunday 20th March Tangled (PG) Macrobert 1.30pm

families central scotland / issue 3

Watershed Productions presents... Charlie and Lola’s Best Bestest Play at the Macrobert. Don’t miss everyone’s favourite brother and sister, Charlie and Lola, in their extremely everso wonderful stage show. Suitable for ages 3+ For times and details visit www. macrobert.org or phone 01786 466666

Family Fun Day at Cambuskenneth Village Hall 11-2pm How to Train Your Dragon (PG) Macrobert 1.30pm Sunday 27th March How to Train Your Dragon (PG) Macrobert 1.30pm Tuesday 29th March to Sunday 2nd April Stirling and Bridge of Allan Operatic Society Present - The Music Man Macrobert Arts Centre see www. sabos.co.uk or phone 01786 466666 for tickets. Friday 1st April Falkirk Farmers Market High Street 10-4pm Saturday 2nd April Eggs-travagent Easter- Jupiter Wildlife Centre, Grangemouth Enjoy a quick walk looking for signs of spring around Jupiter. Use the inspiration to paint an egg, before an exciting egg rolling contest! Please bring a hard-boiled egg per participant! All under 16s must be accompanied by an adult. Contact the Jupiter Ranger Stephen Owen on 01324 486475 or email jupiterranger@swt.org.uk 2.00pm till 4.00pm

The Gruffalo (U) 11.00am Yogi Bear (U) 2.30pm Bo’ness Hippodrome

Tuesday 5th April and Thursday 7th April Callendar House Easter Activities ‘Ceramics and design’ a chance to experiment with design and create a plaster cast tile. Suitable for children aged 7 - 12 years. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Tickets are free but booking is essential. Contact Steeple Box Office - 01324 506850 or visit www.falkirk.gov.uk/ callendarhouse Wednesday 6th April Yogi Bear (U) Bo’ness Hippodrome 11.00am Thursday 7th April Creepy Crawly Time at Jupiter Wildlife Centre Grangemouth Come along and have a rummage in amongst the woods and meadows as we search for all kinds of little creatures. All under 16s must be accompanied by an adult. Contact the Jupiter Ranger Stephen Owen on 01324 486475 (mobile 07739 428203) or email jupiterranger@swt.org.uk 2.00pm till 4.00pm Friday 8th April to Saturday 9th April Gnomeo and Juliet (U) Bo’ness Hippodrome 2.30pm Plutot La Vie presents... By the Seat of

Saturday 2nd April to Monday 4th April Gnomeo and Juliet (U) Macrobert 1.30pm Also on Tuesday 5th at 10.00am and

Tuesday 5th April Wednesday 6th April

Linlithgow Farmers Market The Vennel 10-2pm

Parade in Falkirk Town Centre with Q20 theatre group and a huge pirate ship with loads of pirate characters. Free for all the family Tangled (PG) Macrobert 1.30pm

Wednesday 6th at 10.30 and 1.30pm

Your Pants at the Macrobert The world of three men and a chair

A fast, visual and funny clown show for family audiences: Suitable for ages 7+ For details visit www.macrobert.org or phone 01786 466666 Friday 8th April to Monday 11th April, Wednesday 13th April and Thursday 14th April Yogi Bear (U) Macrobert 1.30pm Rio (U) Bo’ness Hippodrome Various times Saturday 9th April Catherine Wheels Theatre Company presents... Caged at the Falkirk Town Hall. Caged is a new version of the classic tale Beauty and the Beast. A story about two people trapped together and finding more freedom than they ever imagined. Suitable for ages 8+. For times and details visit www.falkirk.gov.uk. For tickets phone 01324 506850 or visit The Steeple box Office in Falkirk High Street. Stirling Farmers Market Port Street 10-4pm Sunday 10th April Little Seedlings Club at Dobbies Come along and join in the fun at the Club birthday party. To celebrate, there will be a workshop introducing children to the creatures that live in a pond and fun facts about frogs. For full details on times Dobbies Garden World Stirling on 01786 458860. Rory the Racing Car Show at the Albert Halls Stirling. 2.00pm

Tuesday 12th and Thursday 14th April Callandar House Easter Activities ‘Heat boxes’ a science based workshop examining ways of generating heat in an eco friendly way. 1pm and 2pm Suitable for children aged 7 - 12 years. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Tickets are free but booking is essential. Contact Steeple Box Office - 01324 506850 or visit www.falkirk.gov.uk/ callendarhouse Tuesday 12th April to Thursday 16th April Puppet Animation Festival at the Macrobert. Mimika Theatre present - Small Worlds A genuinely unique integration of puppetry and animated film, for young audiences and their families Tuesday 12th to Wednesday 13th Ailie Cohen presents Cloud Man. Featuring a blend of puppetry, storytelling and sumptuous visuals Thursday 14th April Pickled Image present Wolf Tales This is a spectacular and hilarious exposé of the truth behind this classic fairy tale for all big kids over 5 who love a tasty tail. Monday 25th April. For details visit www.macrobert.org or phone 01786 466666 Friday 15th April to Sunday 17th April The Chronicles of Narnia – the Voyage of the Dawn Treader Macrobert 1.30pm Saturday 16th April

Monday 11th and Wednesday 13th April Callendar House Walled Garden Activities ‘Fantastic Flowers’ – Spring into Callendar House walled garden this Easter to discover more about the language of flowers that were used by the Victorians and have a go at planting some to take home. Sessions at 11.30, 2pm and 3pm Suitable for children aged 5 – 12 years. Children must be accompanied by an adult Tickets are free but booking is essential. Contact Steeple Box Office 01324 506850 or visit www.falkirk.gov.uk/ callendarhouse Tuesday 12th April Yogi Bear (U) Macrobert 10.00am

Children’s and Adults Bookmaking Day at Callendar House Come along and find out how to make your own book with artist Charmian Pollok(Children must be accompanied by an adult) 10am to 11am Age 5-7 11.15am to 12.15pm Age 9-11 For free tickets call 01324506850 or visit The Steeple Box Office The Water Horse (PG) Bo’ness Hippodrome 11.00am Friday 22nd to Monday 25th April Bo’ness Steam Railway Easter Egg Special Easter Egg Special Trains on the Bo’ness & Kinneil Railway Good Friday, Easter Saturday, Sunday and Monday. A free tasty Easter treat for every child and a chance to win a prize in our Easter Egg Hunt. Wear your Easter Bonnet and see if you can

win a prize! Standard timetable & fares apply. Visit www.srps.org.uk/railway or phone 01506 822298 Breakfast with the Easter Bunny at Dobbies A chance for children to meet the Easter Bunny while having breakfast and taking part in fun filled party style entertainment. Tickets cost £7.95 per child, booking is essential and children must be accompanied by an adult. For full details and how to book please contact Dobbies Garden World Stirling on 01786 458860. Megamind (PG) Macrobert 1.30pm

out & about

Macrobert Songs you’ll be singing ‘til the cows come home! Join Scotland’s number one family show in their brand new Funny Farm adventure. Suitable for all ages. For details and times visit www.macrobert.org or phone 01786 466666 Tangled (PG) Macrobert 1.30pm Saturday 30th April Brother Bear (U) Bo’ness Hippodrome 11.00am Tuesday 3rd May to Wednesday 4th May

Hop (U) Bo’ness Hippodrome various times Saturday 23rd April Catherine Wheels Theatre Company presents... Caged at the Macrobert Caged is a new version of the classic tale Beauty and the Beast. A story about two people trapped together and finding more freedom than they ever imagined. Suitable for ages 8+ For times and details visit www. macrobert.org or phone 01786 466666 Linlithgow Farmers Market The Vennel – 10-2pm Saturday 30th April to Monday 2nd May

Starcatchers and Matt Addicott presents. First Light at the Macrobert With few words and lots of music, a delicate story about the magical moment when night meets day. Suitable for ages 0-2. For details visit www.macrobert.org or phone 01786 466666 Saturday 7th May Science made simple presents... Visualise: Reloaded at the Macrobert Visualise reloaded is a mischievous mix of physical theatre and live science demonstrations. Suitable for ages 6+. For details visit www.macrobert.org or phone 01786 466666

The Singing Kettle Funny Farm at the

make a difference... Falkirk council urgently needs full time foster carers for young people aged 10 - 18 years either on a long term or short term basis.

Can You: • Provide a stable and loving home? • Work as part of a team? • Encourage a brighter future for a young person, unable to live with their own family?

In return you will receive: • A competitive tax free fee and allowance • Advice and guidance from an allocated and qualified worker • An opportunity to gain a recognised qualification • The knowledge you are helping to shape a young person’s future. If interested we will be having an information night on 22nd March 7pm- 9pm, at The park hotel, Falkirk. Qualified workers and current foster carers will be there to answer any queries you may have.

Foster.

01324 508656 • fostering@falkirk.gov.uk