Families Edinburgh Jan/Feb 2023

George Watson's College

George Watson's College provides a world-class education for children and young people from Preschool to Senior 6. We encourage our pupils to develop a love of learning through an inspiring curriculum and an extensive and inclusive enrichment programme, which are underpinned by the four values we live by: aim high, be kind, join in and respect all

Our school is a place where pupils have the freedom to thrive, succeed, explore, perform, and grow, giving them the opportunity to discover their own limitless potential. Preschool, junior and senior pupils all learn and play on the same 52 acre campus, where you can find our sports facilities, music school, art department, technology building, drama studios and more. We offer our pupils one of the widest extra-curricular programmes you will find anywhere, plus the opportunity to travel internationally during their time with us, and a broad range of learning experiences outside the classroom. Life at Watson’s is about so much more than lessons.

Our school has an enviable reputation for the breadth of opportunities pupils have to get active, with around 25 different sports available to both girls and boys. Participation, excellence, professionalism and equality are the four cornerstones of our physical education and sport department here at Watson's. When it comes to music and drama, our pupils are given the opportunity to co-produce stunning shows, delivering memorable performances that live long beyond school days. Most importantly, the wellbeing of our pupils matters to us more than anything else. There are various ways we support pupils to proactively manage their mental health, while a range of peer-led programmes has created a culture in which we can all play our part.

All this means that when the sun shines we celebrate the happy moments, and when it doesn't we're there to protect and support, just as our motto says: Ex corde caritas - love from the heart. www.gwc.org.uk

Nestled in the heart of the stunning Dordogne, Le Chevrefeuille B&B and self-catering is the ideal family holiday haven.

Approved by leading UK preschool tour operators, Le Chevrefeuille is easy to reach with low-cost direct flights from Edinburgh to Bergerac and Bordeaux. This stunning accommodation has won Tripadvisor’s Certificate of Excellence every year since opening and is centrally located to Dordogne’s most famous tourist sites.

Onsite there’s ample kid-friendly entertainment: toy-room, pool with safety fence, animals, bikes and beautiful grassed play area. All baby equipment is provided and for kids of all ages: babysitting!

Parents will love the stunning poolside views, beautifully appointed rooms and cottages and award-winning cookery school. For a unique experience, sign up for the highly acclaimed family cookery course - it’s fun, educational and a great opportunity for some family bonding time!

Quote ‘Families Edinburgh’ for a 5% discount off all bookings (outwith July and August).

Visit www.dordognefamilyholiday.com for more information on this blissful family retreat!

Dreaming of a family retreat to South West France this summer?

Enjoy National Storytelling Week

National Storytelling Week takes place from 28 January to 5 February and during this period, stories will be told in schools and theatres, pubs, museums, village halls, community centres and in many other places across the UK.

Speech and language therapists believe that storytelling is vital for children’s academic success as it promotes narrative skills and strengthens the ability of children to correctly sequence ideas. To be a good reader and writer a child needs firstly to be a good speaker and listener.

Above all though, storytelling is fun. Whether we are listening to someone else’s story or telling our own, inventing and adapting stories can open doors to exciting new worlds — both real and imaginary.

To find a local event, visit www.sfs.org.uk

Families Edinburgh Needs You!

Do

Do

Write a letter to a loved one –in the future

Join in a campaign for urgent action against climate change by writing a letter to a loved one in the future.

Your Letter to Tomorrow is meant to explain your hopes for future generations if our leaders step up to protect the environment – and your fears about what life could be like if we don’t slow down climate change. Your letter could be to your friend, child or even your future self.

If you do, and ideally have some sales experience (or alternatively think you would be very

and want to have a go!) then get in touch.

We are looking for someone to help us keep in touch with local businesses. This is a part time and flexible role that you can slot around family life.

Get in touch for a chat: editor@familiesedinburgh.co.uk

We are also looking for someone to join our distribution team. Currently our route covering EH12 needs an extra pair of hands. Again, this is a part time role that easily fits around the kids.

Get in touch for a chat: editor@familiesedinburgh.co.uk

The campaign launched by The Climate Coalition, with members including National Trust, Wildlife Trusts, RSPB, Save The Children and Oxfam, aims to generate thousands of powerful letters to go to our leaders.

You can write your letter using a simple online form or upload an image of a handwritten letter. Once your letter is published, you can share it far and wide and even send it directly to your local MP.

More info: www.letterstotomorrow.com

Wear a Hat for a better future!

Wear A Hat Day, an iconic and fun annual event, is one of the UK’s most popular and family-friendly charitable fundraisers and it’s happening again on Friday, 31 March!

Running for more than ten years, this event raises millions for vital research into brain tumours – the biggest cancer killer of children and adults under the age of 40. Wear A Hat Day events help children explore their individuality and creativity, whilst learning to work together and think of others – in a really fun way.

Participation fosters friendships, creates better local and school communities, offers unique learning opportunities and provides new ways for children to explore ideas around different life experiences, all while giving hope to brain tumour patients and their loved ones.

Join this event, as a family or by persuading your local school to take part. Register now for more information and your FREE fundraising pack. Just use the quick and easy webform at www.wearahatday.org

Take Part in The Big Garden Birdwatch

Get involved in Children’s Mental Health Week

Get your family involved in the RSPB Big Garden Birdwatch and help monitor bird life in the UK.

Simply count the birds you see in your garden, from your balcony or in your local park for one hour between 27 and 29 January.

Challenge your children to see who can spot the most birds. Take a bike ride to a local park or make a day trip out of it and spot birds in a new place. You can also watch Big Garden Birdwatch Live! on Youtube and Facebook to discover what birds are being spotted across the UK with live commentary, interviews and chats with special guests and wildlife experts and the chance to ask them questions.

To learn about ways to attract birds to your garden and get your FREE guide, visit www.rspb.org.uk/birdwatch

FREE Early Years play programme launched

From 6 to 12 February, families across the UK are encouraged to take part in Children’s Mental Health Week organised by charity Place2Be, with the theme Let’s Connect. Let’s Connect is about making meaningful connections for all, during the week and beyond.

People thrive in communities and this connection is vital for our wellbeing. When we have healthy connections – to family, friends and others – this can support our mental health and our sense of wellbeing. And when our need for rewarding social connections is not met, we can sometimes feel isolated and lonely – which can have a negative impact on our mental health.

Help raise funds by organising a Dress to Express fundraiser. Find FREE resources for parents and carers and more information at www.childrensmentalhealthweek.org.uk

Leading toy company, Fisher Price© has teamed up with a leading support charity, Family Action, to launch the Family Action Play Programme for children ages 0 to 5, to help with their early childhood development.

The programme is available online and free to families and it shares early years expertise, practical tips and simple activities for families looking for quick and easy ideas to build play into the everyday and help their children thrive.

The programme includes five modules that tackle the ‘why’ and ‘how’ of play and its importance in early childhood development and has been developed drawing upon expertise from the Fisher-Price™ Play Lab and from the practice-based experience of Family Action staff.

To access the Family Action Play Programme, visit www.bit.ly/familyactionplayprogramme

Making the break – divorce for families in Scotland

It’s not a happy fact, but each year thousands of couples in Scotland make the decision to divorce. The end of a marriage is a difficult and stressful time for them and there are a lot of things that need to be sorted out. However, with the right help and advice it does not have to be as complicated or costly as you might think. Here, we want to help families who are starting this difficult journey with some expert advice to make the process smoother for all of you.

Kids come first

Divorce is hard on kids, but they will likely already be aware of problems, so it’s best to be honest with them as soon as you can. Take time to explain what’s happening, if you can do this together as a couple, it will be easier for the child to understand. Be positive and reassuring – they need to know that they are still loved and many things will remain the same for them.

One of the first and most important things to agree is is who will look after the children. In many cases, parents arrange for kids to spend an equal amount of time with each parent.

If you can’t come to an amicable agreement on this, you can ask the court to decide. The courts will generally view that children should maintain contact with both parents, unless there is a strong reason to suggest that isn’t best for them.

Let people know

Apart from speaking to close family and friends to advise them of your break up, there are some practicalities that you should sort out sooner rather than later. If you have joint accounts, you may wish to close these accounts or transfer them into the name of one of you.

You might also need to get in touch with your landlord, insurance companies, tax office, mortgage lender and gas, electricity and telephone companies to inform them of your change in circumstances. Make a list and do this all in one session if you can – it will be easier to get these conversations out of the way to start to move on.

Make financial arrangements

While you are married, couples are legally obliged to provide financial support for each other. So you may be entitled to money called aliment from your partner while you are separated and the divorce proceedings are ongoing. Again, if you can agree financial arrangements ahead of court proceedings, this will make for an easier divorce.

When life changes direction it’s best to have a plan

Life sometimes has a way of surprising you and families and relationships can sometimes change course. If that happens, having a clear idea of the path ahead is vital. At Gibson Kerr, our Family Law solicitors have helped hundreds of families through separation and divorce, helping them navigate their way to a new beginning. We understand every situation is different, so we treat all our clients with respect and understanding.

If you need advice on any area of Family law and want to talk to someone friendly who understands your situation, get in touch. Call our Family Law Partner, Fiona Rasmusen, on 0131 226 9161 or email fiona.rasmusen@gibsonkerr.co.uk www.gibsonkerr.co.uk

Think about property

Even after separation you can legally stay in your family home, unless a court orders you to leave. If you don’t come to an agreement on this, the court will make orders about the home.

If you rent and have a joint tenancy, you can decide who remains as a tenant and who should look for a new home. Again, if you don’t agree, the decision can be made by the court, who can transfer a tenancy agreement to your name, as well as sorting out any rent arrears.

Make sure you look into any Housing Benefit and Council Tax Reductions you might be entitled to.

Speak to the experts

Instructing a solicitor to act on your behalf is not only advisable for court, but a good family law solicitor can explain the best options to you, depending on your circumstances and can make the whole process easier for you. Our experts at Gibson Kerr are experienced and professional while being friendly and understanding. We can help you come out of the other side of divorce in the best possible situation to start your new life.

If you want to talk to an experienced and friendly family law solicitor to discuss any aspect of divorce or separation, please contact fiona.rasmusen@gibsonkerr.co.uk or by telephone on 0131 226 9161.

www.gibsonkerr.co.uk

Simple tips to save money

By Gemma Bird

There is a pride and empowerment that comes with being in control of your money. What’s more, we can pass on this attitude and basic money management skills to our children and help them get money savvy too. With the rising cost of living, many of us are looking for easy and practical money-saving tips. Here are some of my favourites.

This winter, turn your central heating thermostat down by just one degree – it can save you up to ten percent a year on your bill.

Turn off the radiators in the rooms you’re not in.

Is your bedroom cold? Switch on your electric blanket to get your bed warm; a forty watt electric blanket will warm up your bed for just two pence per hour.

Dig out you your slow cooker. It costs ten pence per hour to use compared to your oven at fifty two pence per hour.

Free apps like Too Good to Go (www.toogoodtogo.co.uk) allow you to purchase unsold food at a big discount from top eateries at the end of service.

Invest in good-quality backpacks for days out so you and the kids can carry water bottles and snacks, rather than buying when you’re out.

Parking on days out can be expensive, so I use Your Parking Space app (www.yourparkingspace.co.uk). It tracks where you are and finds cheaper parking alternatives.

Review your subscriptions. Is there anything you can do without?

Sell your unwanted items on eBay, especially clothing. Maximise your selling potential by ironing the items nicely and hanging them on matching wooden hangers. Always use the full free twelve photo allowance with close-ups of any logos and photograph your items in natural light.

When travelling abroad, pack smart. Don’t buy sunscreen and essentials at the airport or a tourist destination as it will always be more expensive. Check for deals beforehand in high street stores and supermarkets. Also be sure to take medications like painkillers and sting and bite relief creams with you as these frequently cost much more aboard.

© FP Focus Point Photography

Bulk out a meal like a spag bol with carrot so you use less meat.

Buy frozen veg so there is less waste and when buying fresh fruits and veg, buy loose where possible, as its cheaper.

Freeze leftover fresh fruit. A quick Google search will tell you which fruits do and don’t freeze well.

Grab a scanner at your local supermarket to keep track of your spending; make a shopping list and stick to it.

Consider switching to own brand items, especially for more expensive things like laundry detergent and dishwasher tablets.

Go through what ingredients you already have and plan the week's menu using these.

Join supermarket mailings lists and newsletters for great savings. There’s often money off your first online shop so sign up with all the stores that offer this. Then shop with a different one each week to maximise savings. Sixty five percent of my followers said they would try this hack!

Gemma Bird, aka MoneyMum, is a social media sensation. She shares her practical and savvy money-saving tips on Instagram @moneymumofficial to help parents through economically challenging times.

Help and support with the rising cost of living

If you’re worried about paying the bills, rising inflation or how to make ends meet – then you’re not alone. Rising energy and food prices will affect most households this winter

These worries can have a knock on effect on our mental health and wellbeing - including on those around us. So, it’s important to know that there’s help and advice out there.

Money worries

If you're worrying about money, heating your home or paying the bills, the Council has put all the support and advice in one place on their web pages:

• debt advice

• grants and benefit payments

• help with school costs and nursery fees

• housing support

• how to save on your energy bills and make your home warmer

• grants to upgrade your heating and discounts from energy suppliers

• community cafes, food banks and pantries

www.edinburgh.gov.uk/costofliving Call 0131 200 2360

Feeling overwhelmed?

Anxiety and low mood can impact on your social life and relationships. ithrive Edinburgh has mental health and wellbeing self-help apps, services, activities and advice in one place:

• anxiety and low mood

• feeling lonely or isolated

• mindfulness

• stress

• feeling overwhelmed

• heathy eating.

ithriveedinburgh.org.uk Breathing Space 0800 83 85 87

Cannot get online?

If you do not have a computer or smart phone, please come to any of the Council libraries where they can help you get online for free. They also have free WiFi.

Warm and Welcoming Winter events near you

Our amazing venues across the city are finding new ways to keep us entertained over the winter months. Come along and meet up with your friends, learn something new or just have some time to chill out and have a cuppa. There’s something for everyone, so check the Council’s new web pages at www.edinburgh.gov.uk/warmandwelcoming to see what’s on near you.

They are also working with partners across the city to publicise events in other spaces and will be adding new events and venues all the time. So keep an eye on their web pages at www.edinburgh.gov.uk/warmandwelcoming or email them at warm.welcoming@edinburgh.gov.uk

There’s something for everyone in Edinburgh’s warm and welcoming spaces across the city.

Come along and meet up with your friends, learn something new or just have some time to chill out and have a cuppa.

Find out what’s on at edinburgh.gov.uk/warmandwelcoming warm.welcoming@edinburgh.gov.uk

Help and advice with the rising cost of living edinburgh.gov.uk/costofliving

Bookings now open!

Classes across Edinburgh and East Lothian available now. 0131 554 6682 woggle@waterbabies.co.uk

Advertise with us!

Be seen by thousands of local Edinburgh families. "I would base the whole success of this business on our advertising in Families Edinburgh" Local party provider Get in touch to find out more. editor@familiesedinburgh.co.uk

Water Confidence with Waterbabies

That moment, when everything else melts away and their smile washes over you.That skin-toskin contact, nurturing, bonding and developing in the warmth of the water. Water confidence builds life confidence, for you and your baby, and who better to guide you than the best trained teachers in the world? When you’re ready, we’re ready. We’ll teach you to teach your baby to swim. From lesson one, we’ll get your little one used to the sensation of the water, developing their natural instincts and transforming these into core aquatic skills.

We run lessons at 9 pool across Edinburgh and Dalkeith. Call 0131 554 6682 for information. www.waterbabies.co.uk

Join the Razzamataz Family

Come and join the Razzamataz family to experience a range of styles from classic West End musical theatre to funky street dance and pop singing. There are always lots of opportunities to perform for both boys and girls, from local theatres and festivals to the glittering lights of London’s West End stage. Free taster sessions available! www.razzamataz.co.uk

House of Jack

House of Jack is a dance studio based in Leith (Ocean Terminal), focussing on street and performance dance styles including hip hop, breaking (breakdance) and musical theatre dance. We welcome all ages and levels of ability and run classes every day, with more than 40 classes per week - learn to dance in a fun, encouraging environment!

Our new term runs 9th January - 2nd April (Feb break 13th-20th), then during the Easter break, we'll hold our Dance & Craft day camps, including mini showcases for family & friends to show what they've been working on! www.houseofjackedinburgh.com

We look forward to welcoming new students into our community.

We offer 1:1 lessons in piano, trumpet, voice, flute and music theory and run a range of group classes throughout the week

Mini Musicians (age 3-4)

Little Keynotes (age 4-5)

Storytellers (age 6-10)

Mini Solfa (P1-P2)

Junior Solfa (P3-P7) Visit our website to find out more. www.forthschoolofmusic.co.uk

EDA, recently voted highest ranked dance school in the UK and Ireland offers classes and exams in RAD Ballet, the faculty being led by RAD Ballet examiner Julie Mitchell. We also offer classes in Commercial, Pre School Dance (for those little movers!), Parent and child Tennie Toes classes, Jazz, Modern, Tap, Acro, Turns and Limbering, Progressing Ballet Technique, Contemporary (led by i-D Company examiner Jenni Inglis), Boys only classes, Competition and much more! (Including performing in the King's Panto).

We pride ourselves on our high standards and constantly apply ourselves to be the best but the most important thing is that all of our pupils are cared for, nurtured and have FUN!! We can't wait to see lots of happy faces old and new when we return in 2023!

For more information please email hello@eda.scot or call 0131 3344299

Party ideas for different ages and stages

By Simone Ryder

I wish I was a parent who loved planning my child’s birthday party and had the energy to enthusiastically invest a lot of time into this activity. Unfortunately, I fall into another category: the group of parents who feel that party planning is yet another of the daunting challenges to be faced on the hazardous path to parenting success. So, regardless of whether you love or hate it, we hope this thumbnail guide to age appropriate parties will help guide you on the road to a successful event.

Age 1

Your child’s first party is really your celebration – the anniversary of becoming a parent. Meanwhile, your 1 year old will have no idea what’s going on! For this reason, many parents choose to make this a celebration for adults only. If you decide to invite other babies, be sure to keep the party short (under an hour) to accommodate nap schedules. As far as activities go, blowing bubbles or singing songs will probably provide all the amusement the little ones need.

Age 2

Hosting a party for a 2 year old presents unique challenges. They can catapult from excitement to temper tantrum in minutes — so you need to be prepared. Most age twos are still very possessive of their toys; they may offer them to each other but will want them right back. So it’s best to put away your child's favourite things beforehand. Word of warning: avoid opening gifts at the party since most of the guests won’t understand they can’t just take the birthday child’s new things home. You can try organised games but they aren’t really necessary since children still play independently at this age.

Age 3

Now children begin to really understand parties. If your child is used to preschool, nursery or playgroups, they may be familiar with celebrations. Singing and circle activities work better than group games for most 3 year olds as they will usually enjoy playing with other children briefly but may still have trouble cooperating. Keep the party to about ninety minutes to avoid over-stimulating them (and exhausting you).

Age 4

Children of this age are full of energy and imagination, which makes them wonderful partygoers. Plan short games and keep things moving as they may still find it hard to wait their turn. Treasure and scavenger hunts work well but many parents opt for soft play venues or similar to allow little ones to burn off energy. Another popular option at this age is for an entertainer at your home or hired venue. Plan for a party of one to two hours.

Age 5

5 year olds know parties are very important and may have all sorts of wonderful (and wild) suggestions about the event. Theme parties work well at this age. Children are usually ready for games that involve instruction like Hokey Cokey and Simon Says. They are acquiring fine motor skills necessary to use scissors and string beads so they’re ready for simple crafts too. Plan for a party of about two hours.

Age 6-9

Once your child has been in school for a couple of years you will find they have strong opinions about their party. You may find that during these years, you go from whole school class invites, to more exclusive groups of friends. Activity-based parties become popular, from trampolining and football to drama, or, as children get older, rock climbing or tree top and zip wire adventures. Children this age like secrets and mysteries, so consider games with clues and puzzles. Fewer children are now fussy eaters, so you can take more chances with the menu. Parties should not exceed two and a half hours.

Age 10-12

Now your child may start to want something more sophisticated and grown up. Although activitybased parties remain popular, as the invite list gets smaller, you may be able to attempt something even you might enjoy, such as an outing to the cinema, theatre or restaurant. A movie night at your home with select friends is regarded as cool at this age. Beware however: throwing a sleepover party will be a rite of passage you cannot completely avoid!

Good luck!

There are some amazing local businesses offering fantastic party options for all ages. Read on… and if you get in touch do remember to tell them you found them in Families Edinburgh!

Let’s Party

Doodles Ceramics Workshop

Parties best for ages: 8+ Doodles now has a separate party room that can be booked for a range of ages or events. The best age for a pottery painting party is 8+ with a maximum of 14 kids, but family visits for younger children work well if the group size is smaller. The party packages are £14 or £16 per head for 1.5hrs, with a wide selection of pottery items to choose from that are fun and functional - bowls, mugs, plates, figurines, plaques etc.

It’s the perfect venue for a unique and crafty party. www.doodlesscotland.co.uk www.facebook.com/doodlesceramics

BOOK A

RUGBYTOTS

PARTY

Looking for a high energy party. Give Rugbytots a try! Our parties are focused on games and having fun and are not skill specific so can be enjoyed by everyone, boys and girls from age 4 -7. Our coaches are enthusiastic and well trained to ensure everyone has an enjoyable experience.

‘Thanks for a great party on Sunday. The whole family enjoyed it!! The games were fantastic and kept all the children very well entertained, I think you will have a few new Rugbytots!”

For further details contact sandra@rugbytots.co.uk or 0345 313 3252

Iris and Elf Face Painting

Iris and Elf offer fabulous and fun face painting to add a bit of wonder and sparkle to your children's party. Get in touch to hear how we can tailor our designs to suit your party theme or favourite colours. We can even offer glitter tattoos.

Based in Edinburgh we cover The Lothians, Borders and Fife. For further details please email Bex at iris.and.elf@gmail.com Find us on Facebook and Instagram @irisandelf.facepainting Early booking is advisable.

Let’s Party

WIGWAMS AND WISHES

Sleepover Parties, Bell Tents & Luxury Picnics

Parties best for ages: ALL, tots, tweens, teens and adults.

Wigwams and wishes provide luxury sleepover parties, bell tents and picnic set-ups for any occasion across Edinburgh, Lothians, Borders and South Lanarkshire. We take the hassle and stress out of organising a party by staging and styling your party in the comfort of your own home or chosen venue, and create magical memories for your children or guests, that will last a lifetime. Prices from £35pppn for sleepovers.

Contact: wigwamsandwishes@outlook.com FB and Insta - @wigwamsandwishes 07970 445510

A ceilidh is a great way to celebrate, if all the guests like to dance! CeilidhKids provides Scottish dancing and music for all the family, and ours works best as a family party, with adults joining in too. Ceilidh parties work best for four year olds upwards; children not yet at school will definitely need an adult partner. We’re looking forward to coming along to your birthday party to lead an hour of dancing for your family and friends. You book the hall and provide refreshments, we bring the music and the fun! See you soon for a dance. www.ceilidhkids.com

Wonder what it’s like to be a pop star? We guarantee to give you all the thrills. Dress up in our glamorous dressing room for your photo-shoot, experience the thrill of being on stage in our funky stage area and enjoy a backstage rider. Then record in our professionally designed studio, see yourself live on TV, sit in with the engineer as they mix your songs or enjoy the comfort of our VIP lounge and have a professionally designed cover featuring you. Record whatever you like in our professional studio as used by a number of chart topping Scottish acts. Get in touch to book your party now: www.yoo-star.co.uk

Looking for a fun-filled, energetic party for your child?

At House of Jack dance studio we offer party packages with 2 hours studio time, including an hour of dance and games led by our enthusiastic dance teachers and with the theme and music chosen by you! Also includes 30 minutes set-up time for your own decorations. (£130 for up to 16 children or £150 for up to 24 children.) www.houseofjackedinburgh.com

DnDance offer amazing kids dance parties that are full of energy, fun, games and of course, dancing! You choose the theme and tracks making your party celebration unique to you

Our dance parties are a great way for children to celebrate a birthday. Invite up to 30 guests along to our studio (either South Gyle or Chesser), you bring the party food, and we’ll take care of the rest.

Our studios are perfect for hosting dance parties. A reception area is set up to welcome your guests, we have a separate room to set up the food and drinks, a changing room for coats and bags, and of course the main dance studio with sprung floors and wall mounted flashing party lights.

Parties available on Saturday and Sunday. Book now www.dndance.co.uk

At TimeTwisters we want to make sure your child’s birthday is a special occasion to remember –for you, for them and for their friends. So we work hard to make sure everything about your special event runs smoothly and everyone has an amazing time.

Whether you choose a “run around daft” soft-play party, and delightful Make-a-Bear Party or the adventure and excitement of a LaserTag party - and with our brand new state-of-the-art system, our LaserTag parties are more exciting than ever!. TimeTwisters has been the place where all the best parties have been since we opened in 2006. Check out the details of our party options at timetwisters.co.uk/parties and reserve your date now to guarantee the most amazing party in history.

Looking for your next incredible birthday party? Get in touch with us here at Activity Delivered - founded in 2014, we survived the pandemic and are excited to be back and delivering amazing birthday parties across Scotland! Nerf Wars, Tipi Cinemas, Hot Tubs, Silent Disco and more!

Head to www.ActivityDelivered.com to explore our parties!

Starting from just £100 P.s We also do wedding childcare too!

Discover more on our website www.activitydelivered.com

We LOVE sharing everything that is going on in and around Edinburgh with you every issue but please remember to check with the venue before setting out just in case anything has changed. All details are correct at the time of going to print but as we've all learnt over the last couple of years - things can change!

JANUARY

Daily Family Art Cart

City Art Centre, 2 Market Street

10am - 5pm

Drop in Daily from 10am – 5pm to explore art as a family and explore our self-led worksheets and activities. Our ArtSpace area is crammed full of art activities and materials relating to our current exhibitions.

Daily Family Learning Space Museum of Edinburgh, Canongate

Drop in Daily from 10am – 5pm to explore art as a family and explore our self-led worksheets and activities. Be a detective and find objects in the gallery.

7 January Anansi and the pot of wisdom Drop-in family sessions at 10am, 11.30am and 2pm Museum of Edinburgh

Family event in association with the exhibition ‘Respect! Caribbean Life in Edinburgh’ Join Sharon Croome as we travel into the Caribbean and West African folktale world of Anansi- The trickster and God of Stories. This family session will be a storytelling, drama and craft adventure. Suitable for families and children ages 5-11yrs. Sharon was born in Barbados and works as a teacher. She is kept busy with her four lively children, all of whom try to outsmart her-just like Anansi! Sharon is inspired by Anansi's resilience, curiosity, creativity and playful nature, all of which are essential qualities for life.

From 11 January Magic Carpet Minis

Various times and dates   £15 per child for block of 3 Magic Carpet Minis introduces you and your little one to some of the wonderful galleries, objects and themes in the museum in a fun and gentle way. Taking place in different spaces around the museum, you will explore subjects such as the Natural World, Space, World Cultures and Scottish History through songs, stories, rhymes, actions, objects and sensory play. Book now nms.ac.uk/magic-carpet-minis

21 January Nature Art 1pm - 3pm

In our New Acquisitions exhibition there is a beautiful artwork by Nicola Murray called a cyanotype. Come along and work with Katelyn to make some artwork using a technique where you can magically print on paper using light to define your shapes. Work this up into a bigger nature inspired artwork.

Free and drop-in, no need to book - just come into City Art Centre. Open to the whole family to work together

8 January Relaxed Morning

10:00 – 12:00 (quiet space open until 12:30)

National Museum of Scotland, Chambers Street

Join us for our monthly Relaxed Morning for anyone who would appreciate a calmer visit to the museum. This session is primarily for, but not limited to, families with autistic children; autistic young people and adults; adults living with dementia; adults and children with mental health problems; and any other visitors with sensory needs or who may prefer a more relaxed experience, plus their families, friends and carers.

Find out more nms.ac.uk/relaxed-morning

9 January BYOB (Bring Your Own Baby/Bump)

10.15am, 11am and 11.30am

Scottish National Portrait Gallery

Babes in arms gallery tours for new, and expectant, parents/carers are back! Join us for informal art chats in the gallery - exploring a different exhibition each month - and stay for a free coffee in our Learning Space.

13th January – 24th March Seedlings Baby Group and Sprouts Todder Group

Here at RBGE we love to encourage children to grow in the most natural way possible, just like our plants and in January will run our second Seedlings parent and baby group, suitable for babied between 5 and 10 months, who are able to sit but are not yet very mobile.

If you are looking for something to do with a toddler why not join our first toddler group Sprouts. This group is suitable for toddlers between 11 and 24 months, who are more mobile and walking around. This is a 10 week block - book at www.rbge.org.uk

14 January

Family Freestyling Folklores Writing Workshop

11am – 1pm City Arts Centre, 2 Market Street Family event in association with the exhibition ‘Respect! Caribbean Life in Edinburgh’ Scottish Jamaican poet and writer Jeda Pearl will guide participants to create a short story or poem inspired by Caribbean folklore. Suitable for adults and children aged 8yrs+. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

Free but booking is essential via the booking link on edinburghmuseums.org.uk.

18 January Art at the Start in the Museum 14:00-16:00. Imagine Gallery. Free, drop-in   National Museum of Scotland, Chambers Street The Art at the Start team, based at the University of Dundee, will be running drop-in creative and sensory play activities within the Imagine Gallery, all aimed at babies, toddlers and pre-schoolers and their grownups. You can join us at any time throughout the session for baby-safe activities using light boxes, collage, and colourful and tactile materials.  Read more nms.ac.uk/Art-at-the-Start

27 - 29 January

28 January Dino’s Club

Dino’s Club is Dynamic Earth’s very own children’s club for young people under 14. Offering a unique combination of science and craft, digital tinkering, storytelling and outdoor adventures, the club is perfect for everyone! Book at dynamic earth.co.uk Indoor workshops are on Saturdays during term time. There are three sessions each day at 10am, 1pm and 3pm. They last an hour and a half and cost £1.50.

6 February BYOB (Bring Your Own Baby/Bump)

10.15am, 11am and 11.30am

Scottish National Portrait Gallery

Babes in arms gallery tours for new, and expectant, parents/carers are back! Join us for informal art chats in the gallery - exploring a different exhibition each month - and stay for a free coffee in our Learning Space.

Free Family art activity inspired by the exhibition 'Incoming: New Acquisitions at the City Art Centre'

Hey Duggee - The Live Theatre Show Festival Theatre, Edinburgh

Everyone’s big lovable dog HEY DUGGEE is touring for the first time EVER and here’s your chance to see him!

11 February Space Art 1pm - 3pm

Free Family art activity inspired by the exhibition

'Incoming: New Acquisitions at the City Art Centre' Artist Ade Adesina is a printmaker who creates imaginative scenes, and the 3 prints in our New Acquisitions exhibition have a distinctly sci-fi feel. Come along and work with Katelyn our Learning Assistant to use printmaking and collage as a technique to make vibrant imaginative artworks with a space feel! Free and drop-in, no need to book - just come into City Art Centre. Open to the whole family to work together.

13 & 14 February Madlab Electronic Workshops

Various times. Studio 1 £15, Child 7 - 14 £13.50, Members & Concessions

National Museum of Scotland, Chambers Street Solder your own flashing alien or Space Screwdriver with Madlab. Learn the secrets of soldering, find out how electrical circuits work and make your own electronic gizmo to keep. Part of our Half-term activities. Book now nms.ac.uk/madlab

13 -18 February Half Term: Galleries and Galaxies

Grand Gallery, Level 1 Free, drop in National Museum of Scotland, Chambers Street Orbit around our out-of-this-world Space themed activities. Make a space monster at our craft station and drop by our Spark Cart for some intergalactic demos and object handling. Read more nms.ac.uk/galleries-and-galaxies

19 February A Sense of Place

11am - 12.30pm and 1.30pm - 3.30pm

Family Art Sessions in association with the exhibition ‘Paul Duke: No Ruined Stone’

Join artist and film-maker Suzy Cavill in our family drop in session where we will explore with collage, creating a piece of artwork personal to us, describing us as individuals, our identity and a sense of place.

No need to book Just drop into the City Art Centre at advertised times. Feel free to bring some photos that are important to you to include in your collages.

Free family drop-in on ground floor of City Art Centre by reception.

11 - 19 February Anchors Away 10:00-16:00,

Join us at Dynamic Earth as we plumb the depths of Scotland’s rich ocean heritage! Take a deep dive into coral reefs, take inspiration from HMS Challenger to build your own research vessel, pilot an ROV and even build mountains and trenches on an augmented reality seabed, plus lots more exciting activities for the whole family! Free with admission to Dynamic Earth.

11- 19 February Pest Hunter Trail 10am - 4.30pm

Free Family activity trail inspired by the exhibition Auld Reekie Retold at the City Art Centre.

In our Auld Reekie Retold exhibition, we explore the work that happens behind the scenes to look after museum items. This includes keeping your eyes peeled for creepy crawlies that might be munching on our artefacts! Come and hunt for bugs yourself through the galleries at the Museum of Edinburgh with our free activity trail.

Free and drop-in, no need to book - just come to the Museum of Edinburgh. Open for the whole family to work together. Pick up your trail at the museum reception.

17 February Family Pest Hunters Workshop Sessions at 11am, 12.30pm and 2pm (sessions last 45 mins)

A free family workshop about creepy crawlies in museums and the trouble they cause.

Come and join us at the Museum of Edinburgh with Gwen, our Collections Care Officer, for an exciting workshop learning about the bugs and beasties that live in museums. We will be handling real life examples of insects and damaged museum items. This workshop is open to anyone who is looking to learn more about how we look after our museum collections. This event is designed for families working together to learn, explore and be brave when it comes to spiders!

Spaces for this event are limited so please book your free places in advance. Free but booking is essential via the booking link on edinburghmuseums.org.uk.

25 February Dino’s Club

Dino’s Club is Dynamic Earth’s very own children’s club for young people under 14. Offering a unique combination of science and craft, digital tinkering, storytelling and outdoor adventures, the club is perfect for everyone! Book at dynamic earth.co.uk

4 March Women in Your Life 1pm - 3pm

Free Family art activity inspired by the exhibition

'Glean: Early 20th century women filmmakers and photographers in Scotland'

'Glean' is an exhibition that explores the work of extraordinary female artists. Come along to the City Art Centre for our family drop-in art activity with our Learning Assistant Katelyn to make some artwork inspired by notable women in your life. Bring along some photos to incorporate into your artwork.

Free and drop-in, no need to book - just come into City Art Centre. Open to the whole family to work together.

Family Friendly Holidays

D dogne, France

“As our boys chased the hens and gaped at the sparkling pool, I knew immediately we had arrived at a place of French countryside perfection...”