Families Central Scotland Nov-Dec 2011

FREE

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

Issue 7 Nov/Dec 2011

In This Issue

• Christmas Gift Guide • Where to find Santa • Christmas Shows and Events

The Wrapper, Re-Wrap-It, reusable sandwich wrap, eco friendly, reduce reuse recycle www.re-wrap-it.co.uk

WIN

A family ticket to see Polar Molar or Too Many Penguins at the Macrobert Stirling.

WIN

A family ticket to see Shrek the Musical in London.

Hotel and dinner included.

www.familiescentralscotland.co.uk

WIN

• A set of Peter’s Railway books • A copy of Bluebell Woods - Natalie’s Winter Adventure

editor@familiescentralscotland.co.uk

079302 64979

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families central scotland / issue 7

Hi and welcome to issue 7 of Families Central Scotland. We are celebrating our 1st birthday and we would like to say a huge thank you to all our readers and advertisers for your support, contributions and positive feedback about the mag!

Central Scotlan d’s really useful

magazine for busy

families of children

age 0-12.

FREE

Issue 7 Nov/Dec 2011

In This Issue

• Christmas Gift Guide • Where to find Santa • Christmas Shows and Events

The Wrapper,

Re-Wrap-It,

In this issue you will find out where and when Santa will be appearing in your local area, we have fantastic Christmas Gift Guides provided for us by The Hub and The Sony Centre and a great feature Cover - cour te on Christmas Shows and Events. sy of Lighthous e Studios, Alloa Ro As always we have our Out ad, Stirling ww w. lig hthousestudios.c and About Guide to local family o.uk friendly events and our local news and reviews! So take some well earned time out and sit with a cuppa and enjoy a wee read! reusable sandwich

wrap, eco reduce reuse recycle friendly, www.re-wrap-it.co. uk

WIN

A family ticket to Molar or Too Ma see Polar ny Penguins at the Macrobert S tirling.

WIN

A Family ticket to see Shrek in London .

www.familiescent

ralscotland.co.uk

editor@families

WIN

• A set of Peter’s R • A copy of Bluebeailway books Natalie’s Winter ll Woods - Adventure

centralscotland.

co.uk

079302 64979

Please get in touch with your ideas, requests or advertising enquiries at editor@familiescentralscotland.co.uk , we are also now on facebook and will be posting up to date information about what to do with the kids. Remember you will find more articles on our website so do visit us there www.familiescentralscotland.co.uk Next issue is Issue 8 – January/February Deadline for adverts and editorial – 1st December

Fiona & Louise the editors

contents News and local reviews ...................................................................4-7 Christmas gift guide ............................................................................8-9 Where to find Santa ............................................................................10 Christmas shows and events...........................................................11 Parent to parent .....................................................................................12 Looking after your children’s feet .................................................12 Competitions ...........................................................................................13 Out and about guide ....................................................................14-15

contact us Fiona Logan and Louise Boyle Joint Editors Families Central Scotland 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.

Design – Gillian Lamb of Lamb Designs Printers – J Thomson Colour Printers Cover – Lighthouse Studios Alloa Road, Stirling. www.lighthousestudios.co.uk 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.

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Christmas at Springkerse View Waste watchers The Waste Watchers Challenge aims to help Falkirk householders reduce food waste and to recycle more, more often by encouraging them to sign up to a 2 week food waste diary. The cost-saving and fun tips provided in registration packs enable residents to discover that it is easier than they might think to reduce waste, re-use where possible and home compost what is left over. The Challenge is supported by multi-media promotion through the Falkirk Herald and Central FM, road shows, community group and school sessions. Everyone completing the food waste diary is given a goody bag of useful items and is automatically entered in monthly prize draws with rewards such as cookery classes, grow your own fruit & veg sessions, and iTune, HMV and Love Eco gift vouchers to be won. The Challenge launched in Stenhousemuir/Larbert and is in Grangemouth from September to November as it works its way round the District over the next 18 months, motivating householders in every part of Falkirk to take part to save them money on their food bills and Council resources on waste disposal.

For more information about the Challenge and to register on-line, visit www.falkirk.gov.uk/ wastewatchers or call 01324 504444

Skills for life not just the stage Stagecoach is Britain’s largest part time theatre school, offering quality training in Drama, Dance and Singing to children age 4 – 18. Stagecoach provides opportunities for budding young performers to express themselves by giving them a good basic education in the three major performance disciplines.

Stagecoach runs at weekends offering a bridge between school and full-time training. Students are taught by staff with professional backgrounds, who are able to draw upon a vast selection of material to stretch children’s imagination beyond the confines of a traditional school syllabus.

Classes rotate so that each student gets an hour of each discipline. Shorter 90-minute sessions for 4-6 year olds run alongside the main school.

Classes are kept small, no more than15 in each.

Twice a year parents can see the students’ work and are kept in touch with their progress through written reports. The skills learnt at Stagecoach aren’t just for the stage, but for life.

A friendly personal approach is at the heart of every Stagecoach, which prefers not to focus so much on performance, but more on the development of every child.

For more information www.stagecoach. co.uk/stirling or contact the principal, Kirsten Campbell: 0131 337 7774 stirling@stagecoach. co.uk

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Throughout December our festive menu is available daily and includes a 3 course meal followed by coffee and mince pies, all at a great price of £15.99 per head. We are holding Xmas Luncheons on the 13th & 14th with singers from local school choirs, bingo and a 2 course menu for £9.99.

Join us for one of our Christmas Party nights on Friday 16th, Saturday 17th or Friday 23rd December. We will have some extra special table magic whilst you enjoy your meal as well as a disco on until late. Christmas Eve is family Party Night with our festive menu, table magic, balloon modelling and face painting. Saturday 17th December brings the return of our traditional Craft Fayre, from 11am to 7pm. Stalls are available to local craft makers.

On Christmas Day we are offering a 5 course menu for only £44.99 (children half price). Sit back, relax and enjoy the day with your loved ones as we take care of everything for you. Bookings available between 12 noon and 3 pm. For New Years Eve we have a set menu at £29.99 (children half price) for 4 courses with traditional Piper to see in the Bells as well as a disco to keep you partying into the wee hours.

Here at the Springkerse View we really do have Christmas all wrapped up!

Book your table now call 01786 446092 www.springkerseview.co.uk

Fun photography

Paul Saunders provides an alternative photo shoot to the bright artificial lights of the High Street studios, using only natural light to create beautiful and emotive images that will capture the personality of your family.

The photo sessions can take place at a location that inspires you, your home, in the garden or at a nearby park. Paul creates a relaxed and fun photography session that all of the family will enjoy providing a series of vibrant and natural pictures that capture a moment in time.

To see more of Paul’s work visit www.paulsaundersphotography.com Paul also provides wedding photography services.

Riverside playgroup Riverside Playgroup (Enable Huts, Edward Avenue, Stirling) is open to children aged 2 to 5 from Stirling and surrounding areas. It is open Mon, Tues and Wed mornings between 9:30am and 11:25.

The cost of each session is £4.50.

From 2 ½ years children can be left with the Playgroup Leader giving an opportunity to increase independence and prepare for nursery. Each session offers structured activities and free play and allows children to mix with others in a safe environment.

The playgroup is well equipped to provide a variety of experiences: creative, imaginative and messy!

For more info please contact Kerry Johnston (Playgroup Leader) on 07540877292 or drop into the Playgroup during opening hours.

families central scotland / issue 7

SwimBabies classes are specially designed, allowing both parent and baby to enjoy water activities together whilst developing skills and experiencing new methods of aquatic learning. SwimBabies promotes and enhances your baby’s confidence and enjoyment of water whilst exercising and learning skills that can last a lifetime. The difference between our SwimBabies classes and other water baby lessons is our proven track record in aquatic education; parents will experience the most up-to-date teaching methods. Progressive learning for babies is essential and therefore total submersion is not encouraged until many other aquatic skills are practised by both parent and baby.

SwimBabies now offer lessons on Saturdays and Sundays at Donaldson’s School, Linlithgow, where the water is warm and safe.

Join us on our journey from the beginning.

SwimBabies is the start of an exciting water experience that progresses on through our programme of swimming lessons for SwimTots (2 and 3 year olds), pre-school infants, non swimmers and beginners, progressive - learners and improvers, stroke development stages and pre-competition/ fitness.

Remember learning to swim through early aquatic participation gives your baby a skill that will last for the whole of their life!

To Book Call Us Now On 01506 205778 or 0131 466 0764 www.swimeasy.co.uk

Traditional customer values for the 21st century That’s what Alistair and Kirsteen Scott had in mind when they opened The Flooring Studio in Bridge of Allan in October 2010. A welcome change to out-of town carpet warehouses. The emphasis is on excellent customer service and value for money. Every budget is catered for from a small piece of bathroom vinyl to a complete new build.

The Flooring Studio operate their own teams of specialist installers and there is a selection of glowing testimonials on their website.

All the UK’s leading flooring manufacturers are on display in the beautiful showroom or alternatively you can arrange a home consultation.

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

Christmas Memorial Service A Christmas memorial service for families who have experienced the trauma of losing a baby is being held in Stirling. The service will take place in St Mary’s Church, Upper Bridge Street on Friday 9th December at 7.30pm.

Register for the Challenge, complete the 2 week waste diary, claim your goody bag and automatically enter our monthly prize draws to win: • cooking classes • grow your own fruit & veg sessions • gift vouchers from www.love-eco.co.uk, iTunes & HMV • quality eco products

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

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www.bairnsrealnappies.co.uk info@bairnsrealnappies.co.uk 07557904865, Covering Central Scotland.

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

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If you are looking to use real nappies or are daunted by the huge variety, and costs involved in buying them, for them to not be right for you, then hopefully Bairns Real Nappies can help.

You can hire a nappy kit, for Free* for 2 weeks, letting you try them before you buy them. *(£40 fully refunded security deposit)

GO Y NTHL & MO ZE I PR S D R AW

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With cloth nappies becoming more popular and more extravagant, it can be difficult to decide upon which style and brand to use. All of these nappies are great, but dependant on your lifestyle, may or may not be the right ones for you.

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

Bairns Real Nappies

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SEVEN ITEMS WASTED IS STILL IN ITS PACKAGING THE TOP 5

Everyone is welcome to attend and no booking is necessary. For more information or directions to the venue, please visit www.forthvalleysands.org.uk or contact Caroline on 07948 562321.

2/3 OF THE FOOD WE THROW AWAY COULD ULD HAV HAVE A E BEEN EA AV EATEN AN AVERAGE SCOTTISH HOUSEHOLD THROWS AWAY £430 WORTH OF FOOD EACH YEAR ONE IN

The Lights of Love event is being organised by Forth Valley Sands (Stillbirth and Neonatal Death Charity) and provides parents the opportunity to come together and acknowledge the lives of their babies at this difficult time of year. This year the Scottish Cot Death Trust will also be taking part in the service.

The service consists of traditional carols, inspiring readings, beautiful music and there will also be an opportunity for people to light a candle in memory of their loved one.

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Outdoor learning opportunities at Bright Beginnings nursery

Water Babies

trunk carved furniture introduced and a super new swing and slide installed.

Staff, parents and children at Bright Beginnings Nursery Bridge of Allan really got into the spirit of partnership working as they ended the summer season with a mega gardening day to tidy their outdoor play areas, introduce new toys and resources and extend outdoor learning opportunities into autumn and beyond.

The wonderful working party comprised nursery staff, parents using the nursery service, youngsters attending the nursery and their siblings. The fences were painted, planting areas spruced up, new tree

The Bright Beginnings team are committed to getting children outdoors whatever the weather and are lucky enough to be located right on the edge of the stunning grounds at Stirling University, here the children can enjoy woodland adventures, strolls through the parkland and feeding the ducks on the university pond.

The nursery has a selection of resources to support its fresh air promise including waterproof outdoor clothing, quality prams and buggies, Walkodile child safety devices and high visibility vests to ensure children are safe, warm and protected at all times yet have the space and facilities to explore and learn through nature and the local environment. Bright Beginnings, 147 Henderson Street, Bridge of Allan 01786 474712 bbbridgeofallan@aol.com

Wishing you a debt free Christmas!

Christmas doesn’t have to be a big spend. Here are five top tips to keep your purse in one piece this festive season.

1. Don’t shop in December – the most expensive month of the year! Christmas shopping in January will easily save you 50% on gifts, 70% or more if you’re getting Christmas cards.

2. Second Hand Santa– Kids don’t care if someone else had a chance to play with something awesome first. Buy toys and games at nearly-new markets, second-hand shops and websites, and save a fortune.

3. Post Early enough to make the 2nd class deadline and your savings will add up, especially with international items. The UK date for 2nd class is the 17th December, international dates start from 4th December. See the Last Posting Dates Tool at: www2.royalmail.com/greetings 4. Decorate late - Start a new family tradition and wait until the last weekend before Christmas to buy your Christmas tree, when traders are giving them away. You can chop at least 50% off the price.

5. Avoid luxury wrapping - Get the kids to potato-print on brown paper, or glue and glitter newspaper and magazine pages for a cheap and unique option.

Nicole Diamond is founder of The Jack & Jill Market, Where Smart Mums Sell & Save. www.jackandjillmarket.co.uk

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families central scotland / issue 7

Teaching water confidence and safety techniques from birth, the uniquely structured Water Babies programme is designed to make the most of babies’ natural affinity with water.

With progressive training, babies can be taught life saving skills such as turning onto their backs or, following a sudden submersion, swimming to the nearest solid object. Within the last three years, at least ten of our children have saved themselves from drowning – and five of them were just two at the time!

Swimming from birth is excellent for babies’ development, providing a complete physical workout which in turn aids the development of the brain. What’s more, regular swimming can enhance their awareness and improve eating and sleeping patterns – a definite bonus!

With a clear emphasis on having fun, lessons are generally very sociable occasions – and excellent for strengthening the bond between carer and baby.

Water Babies classes run nationwide with local classes in Fife, Cumbernauld, Stirling and Falkirk.

For more information call 01786 430314, email makeasplash@ waterbabies.co.uk or visit www.waterbabies.co.uk

A warm welcome at The Sheriffmuir Inn The Sheriffmuir Inn sits on the historic battle site just 4 miles from Dunblane and yet totally remote. The Restaurant is open 7 days for Lunch and dinner , Sunday being a slight exception as food is served from 12.30pm until 8.30pm. The Inn has 2 bedrooms that you can stay in.

The Cook family have been running The Sheriffmuir Inn for 6 years now and are passionate about good food prepared from local produce. Geoff has been cooking for 35 years and has instilled his passion onto his son Karl. The Front of House team are lead by Moira Cook and their daughter Nikki Williams. With a warm fire for the winter and outside play area for the children in finer weather it is hoped that everyone will enjoy the hospitality on offer.

The Sheriffmuir Inn, Dunblane - for more information or to book call 01786 823285 www.sheriffmuirinn.co.uk

Stirling business woman wins Entrepreneur of the Year!

The cream of the retail industry gathered at The Savoy on Wednesday 14th September 2011 to recognise and celebrate the achievements of retail’s highest flyers and to announce: Entrepreneur of the Year Winner : Ann-Maree Morrison, Director of Labels4Kids Ltd. Like many great business ideas, Labels4Kids was born from personal need when AnnMaree, the mother of 3 young boys, grew tired of her boys coming home from school with other children’s clothes.

Christmas 2011

at macrobert A treat for every age & taste Jackie and the Beanstalk ages 5+

Wed 23 Nov Sat 7 Jan

Polar Molar ages 3+

Tue 29 Nov Sat 31 Dec

Labels4Kids produces vinyl waterproof labels, iron on, stick on and sew on labels for children’s school clothing and general items. The judges were impressed with how Ann Maree has created a dedicated following of supporters from across the globe through an active social-media strategy and online forum for parents and families on her award winning website www.labels4kids.com/fam Many congratulations Ann-Maree!

Register Now! Nought to Nursery Parent and Toddler Groups - Tuesday + Friday 9.30-11.30am(Termtime) Safe til Six After School Club - 2.30-6pm, 5 days a week Falkirk Salvation Army, 1 Woodside Court Falkirk, FK1 5AN

Too Many Penguins? ages 0 - 3

Tue 7 Dec Sat 24 Dec

Get your tickets now!

Call 01324 627425 falkirk@salvationarmy.org.uk

MACROBERT.ORG/CHRISTMAS

01786 466666 7

xmas gift guide

Top 5 Christmas Gifts from Graham Robertson Sony Centre Bridge of Allan & Falkirk

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hristmas is near! You will no doubt be thinking about the best gift you can present to your parents, children, extended families & friends! Don’t worry; your local Sony Centre has the latest gift ideas for this Christmas that will make our loved ones adore you. As electronics your are a vital part of our lives and every day new gadgets showing up in the market; it’s important that you get the best advice and the best product to excite your loved ones.

Our friendly advisors will help you to match the right gift to the right person.

RRP £399.99

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But, I hear you ask, what are the latest electronic gadgets this Christmas? Read on, to see the Sony Centre’s top 5 count-down of must-have gadgets for 2011!

(includes includesFREE2YearWarranty)

Pla Playback from your IPod or IPhone in superior quality stereo sound with MEGABASS with this clever Ipod dock.

Boasting a 20W + 20W output, remote control and audio in to connect any digital music player, this dock will also charge your IPod or IPhone while you listen to your music. What makes this dock special is the Bluetooth facility, allowing you to stream music from any Bluetooth device, straight to your dock with no wires!

5 This fun and colourful Cybershot

Camera has all the great features you would expect from a Sony, including 16.1 megapixel resolution, Sweep Panorama and a 6.7cm LCD Screen. Not only that, but there’s 4GB memory space inside to store all your shots, plus a handy USB arm for hooking up with your PC meaning no lost cables.

RRP £180.00

RRP £175.00.

(Not ffor you? Our Cybershot Camera range starts from an amazing £79.99!)

W something lighter than a laptop to Want surf the web? Then this Y-Series Netbook is perfect. With an AMD Dual-Core Processor, 4GB of RAM and a whopping 500GB Hard Drive and all cased in a light 1.5kg 11” notebook body, you won’t compromise performance for size!

in your family to the new Sony E-Reader. Re-launched for 2011, this E-Reader allows you to read anywhere, and in any light thanks to the 6 inch E Ink touchscreen. With up to 1 month battery life and in-built Wi-Fi, you’ll have access to free library books and Google E-books as well as the new Sony Reader Store. Smaller and lighter than the competition, this Reader is a must-have for anyone who wants to read at home or on the move.

RRP £129.99!

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to-the-minute gadget, then look no further than the Sony Tablet S. With a slim ergonomic design, and amazing TruBlack display, this product has to be seen to be believed. With all the features you’d expect from a tablet PC powered by Android, such as web browsing and downloadable apps, the Tablet S breaks the mould with an inbuilt universal remote control. You can control all your media devices, regardless of brand, from one place. You can also share photos, music and videos to your TV, home cinema, network speakers or Vaio notebook. If that wasn’t enough, the gamers in your family can enjoy a range of PlayStation games with the first-ever PlayStation certified Tablet PC. Experience a full demonstration of this amazing product at your local Sony Centre today!

(Not ffor you? Our IPod dock range starts from an amazing £75.00!)

2 This Christmas, treat the avid reader

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1 If your loved one wants the latest up-

families central scotland / issue 7

Prices from £399.99 Still not sure what to get this Christmas?

Pop into Graham Robertson Sony Centres in Bridge of Allan & Falkirk and our advisors will help you get the best for your family this Christmas!

Bridge of Allan Sony Centre, 5-7 Fountain Road 01786 832246 www.sony.co.uk/bridgeofallan Falkirk Sony Centre, 2-5 Galloway Court 01324 630 064 www.sony.co.uk/falkirk

GCNSadvert[1].pdf 12/09/2011 11:17:43

THINKING ABOUT RENEWABLES? Join a Stirling wide bulk buy scheme for up to 50% off the average price of solar panels.

Going Carbon Neutral Stirling will give you honest and hands-on advice to ensure that renewables are right for you.

For more information contact or simon.gooden@ksbscotland.org.uk

Christmas all wrapped up at The Hub

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T’S CHRISTMAS!!!!!!! This means one thing for all the good little boys and good little girls – Must-Have Toys! For Parents and Grandparents it can be a minefield trying to work out what our kids will ant each year, and inevitably whatever they tell us, many will have a last want minute change of mind on Christmas Eve. At The Hub we’ve been listening to the t local children all year long about what theirr ffavourites are and have YooHoo & Friends, Moshi a great range of big brand toys, including LEGO,, Y Monsters, Club Penguin and much, much more. We’ve even got real kids involved inn reviewing r the toys we sell, and link to these reviews online...so you can find the toys children really love. If you want to be sure of seeing smiles on Christmas morning take a look at our top toys listed below: Boys Toys 1.

2.

Star Wars Ultimate FX Lightsaber - £39.99 LEGO Alien Conquest Alien Mothership - £49.99

1.

2.

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LEGO Star Wars Anakin Skywalker & Sebulba’s Podracers – £81.99 Pokemon Christmas Tins - £12.99

Girls Toys 1.

2.

3.

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Fijit Friends - £54.99 Moshi Monsters Mosh n Chat Poppet/Katsuma - £24.99 Moshi Monsters Moshling Treehouse - £19.99 YooHoo & Friends - from - £3.99 Y £12.99

The

Hub

Sensational Stocking Fillers

3.

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xmas gift guide

Moshi Monsters Mash-Up Series 2 Tins - £9.99 LEGO Series 5 Minifigures - £1.99 Moshi Monsters Slap Watch £9.99 Club Penguin Puffle - £6.50

Christmas All Wrapped up

At The Hub we have Christmas all Wrapped Up – with our fantastic online ordering service at www.thehubdirect.co.uk , you can choose to have pressies delivered straight to your door, or arrange to pick up your order with our Free Collect At Store Service...we’ll even gift-wrap it for you if you want the ultimate stress free festive season!

That’s not all – we try to cater for the whole family at Christmas, and as well as some cool gifts for mum & dad, such as the Motormouse Wireless Mouse, we can also provide all your wines for the festive season from our varied selection of Independent Wines. We have specially selected Christmas Cases, available to view online at www.thewinehub.co.uk , as well as free local delivery when you order 12 or more bottles.

So that’s The Hub Christmas All Wrapped Up for you, in one convenient independent local store – simple!

The Hub, 7 High Street Dunblane, 01786 825933 www.thehubdirect.co.uk

Your local independent toy shops The Bo’ness Toy Shop 19 South Street, Bo’ness Falkirk 01506 828002

Carters Toy Shop

2 King Street Stirling 01786 448988 www.carterstoyshop.co.uk

Good Green Fun

Unit 32 Stirling Enterprise Park Stirling 01786 849216 www.goodgreenfun.co.uk

The Hub

7 High Street Dunblane 01786 825933 www.thehubdirect.co.uk

Little Monster Toys

Unit H 16 Callendar Square Shopping Centre Falkirk 01324 670070

Introducing the Wrapper

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chool packed lunches are traditionally wrapped up in cling film, tin foil or plastic bags, which just ends up in the bin and land fill sites.STOP this waste with THE WRAPPER BY RE-WRAP-IT – the Reusable Sandwich Wrap. The WRAPPER has a plastic side for keeping food fresh in and a colourful fabric outer. You simply place the sandwich, roll or whatever you choose in the middle of the Wrapper, fold it over the food and seal with the handy Velcro strip. This keeps the food fresh inside and then, when needed cleverly unfolds into a plate.

Ideal for keeping your desk clean or if you are eating outside. No more worrying about toddlers eating food from the floor or dirty picnic tables. With so many coloured materials to choose from, they are perfect for toddlers, school packed lunches, at the office or out in the countryside. They can be branded with

your local sports team logo, school colours, or with a favourite pet or family photo printed onto the cotton....the list is endless..... It also makes the ideal Party Bag for children, to be filled with Birthday Cake and sweeties, or the perfect stocking filler for Christmas morning treats. No more wrapping up sandwiches or snacks in packaging that just gets thrown away. REDUCE REUSE RECYCLE with the Wrapper - the Reusable Sandwich Wrap For more information about The Wrapper contact us at www.re-wrap-it.co.uk Or 0141 954 4739

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Where to find Santa Stirling Town Centre and the Thistles Shopping Centre

See Santa and his reindeer parade through town on Sunday 20th November. Starting at 12noon from the Corn Exchange Santa will make his way to his grotto in the Thistles for 12.30. Santa will be in his grotto every day until 24th December.

The grotto this year will be free, so there will not be a present included but you can bring your camera to take a photo of your child and Santa. For details visit www. thethistles.com

Bo’ness and Kinneil Railway Make a great start to the festive season with a visit to Santa aboard the Bo’ness and Kinneil Steam Train. During the journey Santa will meet all the children on the train and give each one a present. Refreshments will be available and a festive sing along. Trains run 26th, 27th Nov, 3rd/4th Dec, 10/11th at 10.30, 12.00, 13.30 and 15.00 Booking is essential, phone 01506 824356 or visit www.srps.org.uk

A Magical Christmas at The Falkirk Wheel!

Santa and all his elves will be getting ready for Christmas at The Falkirk Wheel. See Santa aboard one of the magical boat trips running throughout December! The

elves will safeguard your passage as you sail 35 metres into the air and through the tunnel to Santa’s village. Watch the kids beam with delight as Santa himself climbs aboard the boat and hands out gifts to all the boys and girls! Visit www. thefalkirkwheel.co.uk or call 08700 500 208 to book your Santa trip now, early booking is recommended.

Santa and his Aviemore Reindeer In and Around Falkirk.

Santa and his Reindeer will be arriving in a town near you. Come along and join in the festivities. In Bo’ness, Grangemouth, Denny and Stenhousemuir there will be family entertainment including, local bands, school choirs, Bad Wolf theatre company , X factor Lloyd Daniels as well as craft stalls, face painting and treasure hunts. See our Out and About pages for more details.

Bo’ness

Saturday 26th December 10-12 (all day event with lights switch on at 4.00pm)

Grangemouth

Saturday 26th December 2-4pm (entertainment from 12 noon lights switch on at 5.00pm)

Denny

Santa’s grotto will open at Polmont on Saturday 26th November and at Stirling on the Saturday 3rd December. Santa will then be in his grotto every Saturday/Sunday leading up to Christmas.

Phone Polmont on 01324 717035 or Stirling 01786 916167 for more details.

The Carse of Lecropt Rotary.

Santa and his sleigh will be visiting a street near you courtesy of the Carse of Lecropt Rotary. Santa’s helpers will be collecting money for childrens charities.

The collection starts at 6.00pm and finishes at 8.00pm except Sun 18th Dec when it starts 4.00pm and finishes at 8.00pm 6th Dec - Riverside/ Shirras Brae 8th Dec - Torbrex T 12th Dec - Bannockburn 13th Dec - Cambusbarron 15th Dec - Coneypark 18th Dec - Broomridge 19th Dec - Braehead 20th Dec - King’s Park

Saturday 3rd December 10-12

Santa at Sterling Mills, Tillicoultry

Stenhousemuir

Come and visit Santa at the Sterling Mills shopping outlet every Saturday/Sunday from 26/27th November to 17/18th December. From 12 noon until 4.00pm £3 including a child’s gift. Visit www. sterlingmills.com for information.

Saturday 3rd December 2-4pm (entertainment from 12 noon lights switch on at 5.00pm)

Falkirk Town Centre

Saturday 10th December 2pm - 4pm Santa and his reindeer

Falkirk Town Centre

Saturday 20th November (entertainment from 3.30 and lights switch on by X factor Paije Richardson and Peppa pig at 5.00pm)

Santa at Dobbies Come and join in with the magical fun of seeing Santa arrive at Dobbies on Saturday 19th November at 11.30. He will then be in his grotto to meet children every weekend from 19th November until Christmas. (Tickets £5) From Saturday 3rd December you can join Santa for a special breakfast filled with singing, stories and a special gift from Santa. Tickets £9.95.

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Klondyke Garden Centres – Beancross Rd Polmont and Glasgow Rd Stirling

issue74 familiescentral scotland / issue families

Stirling Arcade Come and visit Santa at The Stirling Arcade every Saturday and Sunday from Saturday 26th November . There will be complimentary Mulled Wine and cake every Sunday provided by Cibo E Vino and Ruby’s Cupcakes. For a full Calendar of events and details visit www.stirlingarcade.com

The Howgate Shopping Centre Falkirk Santa will be in his grotto at the Howgate from 1st to 23rd December, 11am – 4pm, Price (inc gift) - £3

Hamleys Toy Shop Glasgow Visit Santa at Hamley’s Toy shop in Glasgow throughout December. Visit www.hamleys.com/whatsonglasgow for details of events.

Family Christmas shows & events

Falkirk Children’s and Youth theatre present Aladdin at the Falkirk Town Hall Friday 2nd –Sat 10th December (except Sunday) 7.30 pm with additional matinee at 2.30 on Saturday. For tickets phone 01324 506850 or visit the Steeple Box Office , Falkirk.

Jackie and the Beanstalk at the Macrobert Wednesday 23rd November to Saturday 7th January Fe Fi Fo Fum, this is the year that Christmas won’t come…..

Stirling Stella is at crisis point. Fairy Mary Christmas has had her wand stolen by the evil Giant Sleigh-Stacks, robbing the entire pantosphere of their Photographer Christmas Spirit. Only Douglas McBride one band of merry revellers from Skinto-Row can save them, Dame Dot Von Trott and her two daughters, the beautiful (but rather dim) Jilly and everyone’s favourite tomboy, Jackie. However, this double-dipper recession means that none of them can afford the airfare to get to the Giants Castle and save the day. Will they have to sell their beloved cow Daisy MooMoo to soar skyward? Will Dame Dot ever pay her rent money in time to the dashing Count Monty Bisto? Will the spirit of Christmas ever return to the pantosphere?

Find out in this years’ macrobert pantomime, hilarious Christmas fun for young and old at the same time! Starring an all-star cast of Scotland’s finest acting and production talent and a terrific cast of young performers this is a great Christmas treat not to be missed! Written, directed by and starring Johnny McKnight For tickets phone 01786 466666 or visit www.macrobert.org Polar Molar at the Macrobert Tuesday 29th November to Saturday 31st December It’s the year 2020! Captain Scot Scott is on a mission: He is determined to find the world’s last polar bear. The only problem is that Captain Scot Scott doesn’t know what a polar bear looks like, or how to catch it. Join Captain Scot Scott as he sets off for the North Pole armed with all the latest technology, his dog called Dog Bog, a team of baby huskies and a very argumentative penguin.

Join us for a wonderful Christmas tale, entertaining and a wee bit silly, for ages 3+, their families and all polar bear fans. Written

by Abigail Docherty and directed by Lu Kemp. For tickets phone 01786 466666 or visit www.macrobert.org

Too Many Penguins at the Macrobert Wednesday 7th December to Saturday 24th December How many penguins are too many penguins?

Polar Bear thinks that one is more than enough, thank you very much.

Penguin wants someone to play with.

Just one friend...

Well, maybe two...

Or three...

How many penguins can we get in one space?

Squeeze into this fun theatrical experience, created especially for 0 - 3 year olds, to find out.

It might get crowded, but we promise the arrival of the penguins, will entertain and delight. For tickets phone 01786 466666 or visit www.macrobert.org

Events at Stirling Castle Tuesday 6th December Christmas Shopping Fayre at Stirling Castle 6.30-9.00pm £5 entry includes parking Kids under 16 go free but must be accompanied by an adult. Log fires, mulled wine and unique Christmas gift ideas. This popular event brings together a unique mix of suppliers, you won’t find anywhere else, in the beautiful surroundings of Stirling Castles Great Hall. For details visit www.stirlingcastle.gov.uk or phone 01786 450000 Sunday 11th December Stewart Christmas at Stirling Castle 12.30-3.30pm Come along and enjoy a very light-hearted and slightly irreverent return to the period of Mary, Queen of Scots and find out what Christmas would have been like in the Stewart Royal Court of the 16th century. Normal admissions prices apply.

For details visit www.stirlingcastle.gov.uk or phone 0131 668 8885

must be accompanied by an adult. £2.50 per head. For details visit www. stirlingcastle.gov.uk or phone 01786 450000

Dunblane Centre presents Robin Hood.

Tuesday 6th to Sat 10th Dec. Mayhem once again returns to the Dunblane Centre in our traditional Christmas panto. This year we’re joining Robin Hood in his mission to rescue the babes in the wood and defeat the evil sherriff of Nottingham. With all your usual panto favourites, and an outstanding chorus of young performers be sure to bring your hisses and boos with you.

Phone 01786 824224 for tickets.

Children’s Countdown to Christmas at Callendar House.

Help Cook and the ‘Gingerbread lady’ prepare for a Victorian Family Christmas. followed by a chance to make your very own Christmas gift. Family interactive sessions, for ages 4 – 10 years (Children must be accompanied by an adult) Saturdays 3, 10 and 17 December 10.30am – 12.00 noon and 2.00pm – 3.30pm. FREE – places limited, booking essential phone steeple box office on 01324 506850 Larbert Amateur Dramatics Society presents Little Red Riding Hood at the Dobbie Hall in Larbert.

Tuesday 22nd November to Saturday 26th November. 7.30 with additional matinee on Saturday at 2.30. For tickets phone 01324 506850 or go to the Steeple Box office.

Forefront Theatre Company presents Aladdin in the Alloa Town Hall Friday 13th to Saturday 21st January.

For tickets phone 01259 750394

Saturday 10th December Festive Fun Children’s Workshops at Stirling Castle 10.00-11.30am and 1.30-3.00pm Find out what would have happened at Christmas in centuries past and take part in some fun festive arts and crafts.

Places are limited so booking is essential.

Sessions suitable for primary school aged children and all children

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parent to parent

H

i there, we are the Glassey family from Falkirk, Duncan, Colette, Harrison (age 11) and Anna (age 8). Duncan is a financial planner and works for himself and I am a nursery nurse (EYO) and I luckily work part time.

Why you like living where you do?

We live near Bantaskin Estate and LOVE living here. We can be in the woods/forest in a matter of minutes but can also be in the centre of the town just as quickly. There are new cycle paths through Bantaskin Woods and I’m sure these stretch as far as Bonnybridge – not having cycled that far yet, this may just be a rumour!

Favourite shop My kids LOVE Granny’s Sookers in the Cow Wynd for obvious reasons – it’s a sweet shop!

Favourite park Probably Callendar Park as its within easy walking distance, my kids like taking their bikes here and usually take a ball with them.

We have spent many sunny days at Beecraigs though – the new park area is lovely. I noticed the last time I was there that Park Rangers do ‘ranger’ sessions for children. I think these are

free but my children haven’t actually been on any!

Favourite children’s club/class Harrison and Anna like to play outside with their friends most days. They both play football and have tried skiing at Polmonthill Ski Centre, Basketball at Woodlands Games Hall, Rugby at Falkirk Football Club and Tennis at Falkirk Tennis Club. (Not all at the same time). Because of their ages none of these clubs have ever been that expensive.

I’d say that the football and skiing were the favourites! Oh, Anna also goes to Brownies which she says she doesn’t enjoy but she never misses a week!!!

Favourite day out Two answers here – Gullane Beach in the Summer, completely the best day out ever – golden sands, blue sea, teeming rock pools, giant sand dunes and a chippy tea on the way home. It’s exactly an hours drive away from Falkirk but well worth it. However on a rainy day The Time Capsule is brilliant. They usually have offers on for admission as it’s a bit more expensive than a free day at the beach but hey ho…

Favourite child friendly restaurant We love a curry. So it’s got to be the Sanam in Falkirk, staff are all lovely to my kids but not too overbearing, as this can encroach on your night out!

Proudest eco-friendly moment When I actually remember to put my blue, brown and black bins out on the right day!!!!!!!

I do try.

Favourite family holiday spot France– I have a large family and have holidayed with at least one of my sisters for years. We rent a gite and split between all of us, it ends up not too expensive – Gite de France and Cottages 4you are the companies we have used.

Most loved children’s book Harrison loved Diary of a Wimpy Kid by Jeff Kinney – all of them and Anna, Daisy and the Trouble with by Kes Gray Best children DVD or tele programme Anna is loving Glee at the moment and all of us loved Sherlock Holmes on the television with Benedict Cumberbatch! I’m thinking our Saturday nights will now be taken over by The X Factor – but I’m resisting as long as I can!

Most played with toys “Football” by Harrison and “Basketball” by Anna. The Wii is a dream on a wet day – of which we have many!

Biggest waste of money My food shop. If anyone can work out a way to save money on a food shop please will they let me know!

Most successful recipe/food Oh no – I’m probably the worst cook in the world – and my entire family I’m sure will agree. There isn’t a recipe I haven’t attempted at some point – but we can’t all be fabulous at everything !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I do a mean buffet at parties – my vol-au-vents are famous!

Parenting pet hates I can’t bear the last few hours of a Sunday night. School uniform ironing must surely give you the worst feeling ever. I’m sure when my kids are grown up and I don’t need to do this anymore I’ll miss it!

Looking after your child’s feet Children’s feet are very different to adults.

The bones in a baby’s foot are not fully formed but mainly cartilage, this makes them extremely vulnerable to abnormal pressures.

Tips For Healthy Feet • Maintain good hygiene • Check daily for obvious deformity, swelling or redness • Avoid tight babygros, sleep-suits, socks and booties • Allow the baby to kick freely. This will prepare the legs and feet for weight bearing Independent walking ranges from the age of 10-18 months. Baby-walkers should be avoided as they encourage overloading of the joints before they are ready. Allowing your baby to learn to walk barefoot or with socks helps the foot to grow normally and develop its musculature and strength.

When the child is walking independently outdoors they are ready for shoes. On average a child’s feet grow two sizes per year

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in the first four years of life then one size a year thereafter. It is really important that children have properly fitted shoes. Fashion shoes worn regularly may look cute but can have a deforming effect on the foots development. Children can appear to be “flat” footed up to the age of five as the biomechanics of their posture is changing. If a parent is concerned that something “doesn’t look right” or that the child complains about pain it is best to be checked by a qualified podiatrist. A problem addressed early may prevent problems with knees, hips and back later in life.

SHOES! Getting a good fit: • Always have both feet measured for length and width • Check the assistant is a trained shoe fitter • A newly fitted shoe should have about a thumbs width between the longest toe and the front of the shoe • Avoid slip-ons. Shoes should be held onto the feet by straps or laces and fit snuggly around the heel

families central scotland / issue 7

• Natural material such as leather allows the feet to breath • Toe area should be foot shaped and be deep enough that the toes can wriggle freely • Never buy shoes that will “break in” For a complete guide to children’s foot health you can download a free copy of “Looking Out for Children’s Feet” at www.feetforlife. org which is an excellent guide for parents.

Emma Bryce BSc (Hons) is a HPC registered podiatrist who works at Physiofocus in Stirling. For further information call 01786 480048 or email a1feet4life@yahoo.co.uk

written by Emma Bryce

Win a set of Peter’s

Railway and Little Peter’s Railway Books

As an extra special Christmas treat Families Central Scotland has teamed up with children’s author Christopher Vine to give away one complete set of Peter’s Railway and one set of the Little Peter’s Railway books and four copies of Little Peter’s Railway Christmas Steam to our lucky readers. The books are a perfect addition to any Christmas stocking this festive season! Telling the story of a young boy called Peter and his wonderful Grandpa who build a miniature steam railway and take readers on an exciting adventurous journey. In Little Peter’s Railway Christmas Steam – the reader is transported into a heartwarming story as Peter and his Grandpa save Christmas by building a new woodland Christmas grotto and use their train to take the local children across the fields to visit Santa. Visit www.petersrailway.com for more details.

Win a

copy of Bluebell Woods

Ed’s Reading Room at www.edontheweb. com is an exciting free online book and story club for children aged 5-11. Each month four recently published books are selected as Ed’s Books of the Month for the different age groups. Here is one of Ed’s Winter book choices for younger readers. Families Central Scotland has three copies to give away.

Bluebell Woods: Natalie’s Winter Wonderland

by Lisa Norton (Stripes Publishing £4.99) ED SAYS: ‘Come into the secret world of Bluebell Woods and meet Natalie the hedgehog and friends. Each winter Natalie hibernates but this year she tries to stay awake for a little longer to enjoy the fun in the snow. This is a delightful story for young readers to read on their own or for reading together. If you like this, there are more charming books in the Bluebell Woods series.’

competitions

Win a family ticket to see Polar Molar or Too Many Penguins at the Macrobert

Polar Molar at the Macrobert. It’s the year 2020! Captain Scot Scott is on a mission: He is determined to find the world’s last polar bear. Join Captain Scot Scott as he sets off for the North Pole armed with all the latest technology, his dog Dog Bog, a team of baby huskies, a very argumentative penguin. This is your chance to win a family ticket to see this Christmas tale, for ages 3+.

Too Many Penguins at the Macrobert How many penguins are too many penguins? Polar Bear thinks that one is more than enough but Penguin wants someone to play with. How many penguins can we get in one space?

This is your chance to win a family ticket and squeeze into this fun theatrical experience, created especially for 0 - 3 year olds.

To Enter these competitions please email us at editor@familiescentralscotland.co.uk and quote a) Peter’s Railway b) Bluebell Woods c) Polar Molar d) Too Many Penguins or e) to enter all of the above competitions Closing date will be Monday 28th November. Please include your name and address

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 November – Wednesday 8th November (except Tues)

Johnny English Reborn (PG) Bo’ness Hippodrome (various times) Saturday 5th November T Traidcraft Christmas Fayre Stirling Boating Club, Dean Crescent, Riverside in Stirling 10-12. Come along for some fair trade tea/ coffee, home baking and buy fairly traded Christmas cards, gifts, wrapping paper and much more.

There will also be local arts and crafts on sale.

Bridge of Allan Contemporary Arts & Crafts Festival 10-4pm More than 70 stalls selling stunning handmade crafts and gifts, a wide variety of independent shops, cafes and restaurants, a family friendly and very quirky microbrewery (very Pirates of the Carribean), woodland, river walks and a nearby play park. Contact Julie Ackroyd, BofA Community Events Group 01786 831154 Fireworks display at Callendar Park Falkirk. Fun starts from 6.30pm FREE but no parking at Callendar Park except for blue badge holders.

Fireworks display at Bridge of Allan organised by the Stirling and Bridge of Allan Round Table.

Fireworks display at Hopetoun House. Phone 0131 331 2451 or visit www.hopetoun.co.uk Fireworks display at West End Park Alloa. Entertainment starts from 7.30.

Shona Reppe Puppets present The Curious Scrapbook of Josephine Bean at the Macrobert For tickets phone 01786 466666 or visit www.macrobert.org The Lost thing and Other Shorts (ages 8+) Bo’ness Hippodrome 11.00am

try before you buy, find out what services are available locally and grab some great bargains. Visit www.bumpandbabyfair.co.uk Falkirk and West Lothian NCT Family Art Workshop at Stirling Castle 2-3.30pm Artist in residence, Iona Leishman runs a children’s art workshop using the inspiration of the characters of the castle during the time of James V and Mary of Guise. £2.50 per head. For details and to book phone 01786 450000 Dunblane Craft Market Victoria Halls 11-4pm Saturday 5th and Sunday 6th November Rango (U) Macrobert 11.00 am Soul Surfer (PG) Macrobert 2.00pm

Finding Nemo (U) Macrobert 11.00am Sunday 13th November Jurassic park (PG) Macrobert 2.00pm Saturday 19th November

The Jack & Jill Market 10.30- 1.30pm 30 stalls bursting with quality, nearly-new baby & kids clothes, toys, buggies, bikes, equipment, and all the rest for 0 -9 years. Come and fill up the Christmas stockings for a fraction of the retail price. Albert Halls, Dumbarton Rd, Stirling www. jackandjillmarket.co.uk

Tuesday 8th November The Shak Shakespeare Schools Festival at Falkirk Town Hall 7.00-8.30 Falkirk and Grangemouth High School along with Wallace High and Kirkcaldy High Schools present a feast of half hour productions of the Bard’s different plays. For tickets visit The Steeple Box office or phone 01324 506850

Saturday 19th and Sunday 20th November Beauty and the Beast (U) Bo’ness Hippodrome (Various times) Dolphin Tale (PG) Macrobert 11.00am

Friday 11th Saturday 12th Sunday 13th and Wednesday 16th November The Three Musketeers Bo’ness Hippodrome (various times) Saturday 12th November

Tryst Craft Fair Dobbie Hall Larbert 10-4.00pm For information contact Eileen Moore Tel 01324 556532 Charities Christmas Card Sale Albert Halls Stirling. 10-2.00pm

Green Doors –Stirling 12.00 -16.00 people across Stirling are opening their doors to showcase Jupiter Urban Wildlife Watch Club ways they have made their - Grangemouth Carron Dam homes more energy efficient, Clean Up. 10.30-12.30 A clean warmer and cheaper to run. From up day at Scottish Wildlife Trusts Renewable energy to internal Carron Dams reserve. Help make wall insulation come and see the these beautiful wetlands litter technology for yourself and hear free and a spot of bird watching. first hand from the homeowner Suitable for children age 8-12. about the difference it has made.

Phone 01324 486475 or email You must register in advance jupiterranger@swt.org.uk for to attend this event at www. details. goingcarbonneutralstirling.org.uk or by emailing gcns@ksbscotland. org.uk.

Sunday 6th November Bump & Baby Fair, Marriott Saturday 12th and Dalmahoy Kirknewton 11am-4pm Sunday 13th November With an array of exhibitors relating to many aspects of pregnancy, A Taste of the Past at Stirling birth, babies and toddlers, the Castle Come along to the Great event is a great opportunity to hall to see what James V and Mary

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of Guise would have been eating at the royal Court. All included within the admission price this is a great day out for the kids. For details visit www.stirlingcastle.gov. uk or phone 01786 450000

families central scotland / issue 7

Sunday 20th November Switch On of the Christmas lights in Falkirk Town Centre Family entertainment from 3.30-5.00 Join X factor’s Paije Richardson who will be performing a small collection of songs as well as Bad Wolf Theatre group performing songs from their shows. Paije will be joined on stage

by Peppa Pig to switch on the Christmas lights with Provost Pat Reid. Free parking in town centre The Jack & Jill Market 10.30- 1.30pm 40 stalls bursting with quality, nearly-new baby & kids clothes, toys, buggies, bikes, equipment, etc (0-9 yrs). Come and fill up the Christmas stockings for a fraction of the retail price.

West Lothian College, Almondvale Crescent, Livingston www. jackandjillmarket.co.uk Wednesday 23rd November to Saturday 7th January Jackie and the Beanstalk at the Macrobert Stirling Christmas fun for young and old at

the same time! Starring an all-star cast of Scotland’s finest acting and production talent and a terrific cast of young performers this is a great Christmas treat not to be missed!

For tickets phone 01786 466666 or visit www.macrobert.org Friday 25th to Sunday 27th November Hopetoun Christmas Fair at Hopetoun House Masses of original gifts to choose from. For details visit www.hopetoun.co.uk or phone 0131 331 2451 Saturday 26th November African Cats (U) Bo’ness Hippodrome 11.00am Switch On of the Christmas lights in Bo’ness Family entertainment from 12 noon including local brass band, face painter, children’s Christmas arts and crafts, local craft market, school and local choirs, Bad Wolf Theatre Company and a town treasure hunt. Santa will be in town with his reindeer from 10-12pm and X Factor Star Lloyd Daniels will be performing some songs before switching on the lights at 4.00pm assisted by Provost Pat Reid. Free car parking in town Switch On of the Christmas lights in Grangemouth Family entertainment from 12 noon including Salvation Army band, local choir, tea cup rides, face painter, Bad Wolf Theatre Company and a town treasure hunt. Santa will be in town with his reindeer from 2-4pm and X Factor Star Lloyd Daniels will be performing some songs before switching on the lights at 5.00pm assisted by Provost Pat Reid. Free car parking in town Saturday 26th and Sunday 27th November Judy Moody and the Not Bummer Summer (PG) Macrobert 11.00am Tuesday 29th November to Saturday 31st December Polar Molar at the Macrobert A wonderful Christmas tale suitable for children ages 3+ For tickets phone 01786 466666 or visit www.macrobert.org Friday 2nd December Festive Farmers’ Marker – Falkirk High Street 11-4.00pm Families Central Scotland Magazine now on facebook.

Visit us for regular what’s on updates.

Friday 2nd to Saturday 10th December Falkirk Children’s and Youth Theatre present Aladdin at the Falkirk Town Hall. 7.30pm (except Sunday) and additional 2.30 on Saturday. For tickets phone 01324 506850 or visit The Steeple Box Office, Falkirk.

Saturday 3rd December Children’s Countdown to Christmas at Callendar House – see page 11 for details.

Tuesday 6th December Christmas Shopping Fa Fayre at Stirling Castle 6.30-9.00pm £5 entry includes parking Kids under 16 go free but must be accompanied by an adult Log fires, mulled wine and unique Christmas gift ideas. This popular event brings together a unique mix of suppliers you won’t find anywhere else. Enjoy cooking demonstrations from our caterers benugo and local truffle company Fiona’s Fayre. For details visit www.stirlingcastle.gov.uk or phone 01786 450000

Judy Moody and the Not Bummer summer (PG) Bo’ness Hippodrome 11.00am

Denny Festive Event Family entertainment from 12 noon including a pipe band, face painter, children’s Christmas arts and crafts, Bad Wolf Theatre Company and a town treasure hunt. Santa will be in town with his reindeer from 10-12pm and X Factor Star Lloyd Daniels will be performing some songs Jupiter Urban Wildlife Watch Club - Grangemouth 10.3012.30 Stuck for Christmas presents? This could be your chance to make some great crafty presents. Suitable for children age 8-12. Phone 01324 486475 or email jupiterranger@swt.org.uk to book Saturday 3rd, Sunday 4th and Wednesday 7th December The Adventures of Tin Tin Bo’ness Hippodrome (various times) Sunday 4th December Dunblane Craft Mark Market Victoria Halls 11-4pm Little Seedlings Christmas party at Dobbies. Contact Dobbies on 01786 458860

Festive Fun Children’s Workshops at Stirling Castle 10.00-11.30am and 1.30-3.00pm Find out what would have happened at Christmas in centuries past and take part in some fun festive arts and crafts.

Places are limited and should be booked in advance. The sessions are aimed at primary school aged children and all children must be accompanied by an adult. £2.50 per head For details visit www. stirlingcastle.gov.uk or phone 01786 450000 Aviemore Reindeer Parade in Falkirk Starting from Callendar Riggs at 2.00pm

Annual Advent Sale at Camphill, Blairdrummond For info visit www. camphillblairdrummond.org.uk Switch On of the Christmas lights in Stenhousemuir Family entertainment from 12 noon including a pipe band, face painter, children’s Christmas arts and crafts, Bad Wolf Theatre Company and a town treasure hunt. Santa will be in town with his reindeer from 2-4pm and X Factor Star Lloyd Daniels will be performing some songs before switching on the lights at 5.00pm assisted by Provost Pat Reid. Free car parking in town

Moore Tel 01324 556532

Sunday 11th December

Tuesday 6th to Saturday 10th December Christmas Continental Market in Falkirk – 9am to 6.00pm Wednesday 7th December to Saturday 24th December Too Many Penguins at the Macrobert An exciting new Christmas show suitable for children age 0-3 years. For tickets phone 01786 466666 or visit www.macrobert.org Friday 9th December Sands Service of Remembrance.

7.30 at St Mary’s Church, Upper Bridge Street Stirling. All are welcome to gather together for this service to remember and support those who have been through the grief of losing a child at birth or pre birth.

Saturday 10th December Children’s Countdown to Christmas at Callendar House – see page 11 for details.

Jupiter Mid Winter Lantern parade 1.00-5.00pm Jupiter Wildlife Centre Grangemouth Celebrate mid winter by constructing some wonderful willow and tissue paper lanterns followed by a twilight walk in the woods, lit by your new creation. All under 16s must be accompanied by an adult.

Bookings essential. Contact the Ranger Stephen Owen on 01324 486475 or jupiterranger@swt. org.uk. £2 per person Tryst Craft Fair Dobbie Hall Larbert 10-4.00pm For information contact Eileen

Stewart Christmas At Stirling Castle 12.30-3.30pm Come along and enjoy a very light-hearted and slightly irreverent return to the period of Mary, Queen of Scots and find out what Christmas would have been like in the Stewart Royal Court of the 16th century. Normal admissions prices apply. For details visit www.stirlingcastle. gov.uk or phone 01786 450000 Carols at The Castle 7.00-8.30pm The National Youth Choir of Scotland’s Stirling contingent will perform traditional carols in the Great Hall. The castle’s costumed characters will also perform scenes of Christmas past. For details and tickets visit www. stirlingcastle.gov.uk or phone 01786 450000 Thursday 15th December Dobbies Farm Foodhall Festive Fayre 5-8.00pm Visit Dobbies Farm Foodhall for an evening of festive inspiration.

Discover the best produce to make the perfect Christmas dinner and indulge in samples of locally sourced produce. Tickets £1 - proceeds will be donated to Action for Children

out & about

Saturday 17th December Children’s Countdown to Christmas at Callendar House – see page 11 for details.

Family Christmas Craft Workshop at Hopetoun House.

Materials and refreshments provided. Booking essential, call the Ranger on 0131 319 3956 or email ranger@hopetoun.co.uk Traditional Craft Fayre at Springkerse View Stirling 11am to 7pm. Find that unique gift for Christmas from local craft makers.

Wednesday 28th and Thursday 29th December The Singing K Kettle at the Albert Halls in Stirling Cilla, Artie, Gary and Kevin return with a sensational Christmas Fancy Dress Party. For tickets phone 01786 473544 Friday 13th to Saturday 21st January Forefront Theatre Company present Aladdin at the Alloa town hall. Sixty hugely talented youngsters from Stirling, Falkirk and Clackmannanshire in the best panto you’ll see this year. Group booking enquiries welcome. For further details or to book phone 01259 750394