Families Edinburgh March/April 2017

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Free

MARCH / APRIL 2017

Edinburgh

Easter Egg Hunts Classes for Babies Easter Holiday Camps

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What's On

Age speciďŹ c football training for children at walking age - 12 years Birthday Parties available for ages 3 +

Next.co.uk

For more info contact: 07544 221045 email: info@soccerstartsfootballacademy.co.uk or b.robertson@soccerstarts.co.uk

www.soccerstartsfootballacademy.co.uk www.familiesonline.co.uk

Email - editor@familiesedinburgh.co.uk

Tel. 0131 622 0405

What’s inside.................................

3-5 6-7 8 9 10

Local News and Views Clubs and Classes News Parent to Parent Tips to get your child to go outdoors this spring Pregnancy & Baby

11 12 13 14 -15 16 - 18 19 - 23

Class for Baby & You Stop giving yourself a hard time.

Hassle-Free Move by Gibson Kerr Easter Egg Hunts and Days Out Easter Camps & Activities Out & About

Get in Touch 0131 622 0405

editor@familiesedinburgh.co.uk

@FamiliesEdinbur

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Cover image Geo beanie (part of set) from £15, Pink jumper (part of set) from £20 Next.co.uk

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Academic Families is Scotland’s premier guardian agency.

We look after international children at Scottish schools whose parents live overseas.

Although we are responsible for every schoolchild we rely on our community of host families to support them individually. Hosts vary enormously – some have children at home, others are empty nesters or grandparents - but all are interested in enriching an international child’s life and providing a Scottish home for them.

We are now recruiting for well networked individuals – you are probably a well connected mum with child/ren in junior or lower senior school – but not necessarily. We want you to help us recruit more great hosts.

If you don’t fancy recruiting others but would like to host yourself – and have a spare bedroom - then please contact us too!

Hosts enjoy hosting because they broaden their family’s horizons, enjoy sharing cultures and supporting children far from home. They also receive hosting expenses and are never out of pocket.

Most of our children are young teenagers, full time boarders and usually visit their host family 1 or 2 weekends each term.

Younger children are more active and older children more studious!

We take a lot of care matching children and hosts to make sure everyone is happy and enjoys themselves. We make all the arrangements and sort any problems that may arise so our Hosts can enjoy their international child and include them in their family.

Hosting is great fun so please contact us to find out more.

Share, learn, enjoy, laugh, enrich! Academic Families – 0131 331 3317, roni@academicfamilies.com

Welcome to Gealach Lan (Full Moon) a modern self-catering holiday cottage on the beautiful isle of Jura.

Located in a quiet setting close to the heart of Craighouse, it is within 500m of the island's shop, hotel / pub, cafe and village hall.

The cottage sleeps six (plus cot or child’s bed) with a super king-size master-suite, second king-size double and a comfortable twin bedroom. The very well equipped family-sized kitchen-dinning area boasts spectacular views over Small Isles Bay and the living room is made cosy with a wood burning stove. The cottage is perfect for a family holiday and is an excellent base for exploring the Isle of Jura.

Jura has some of the most spectacular scenery to be found in the Hebrides. With 115 miles of coastline there are plenty of sandy beaches to build sand castles on and the three ‘Paps’ provide walkers with a good challenge. The island is also a haven for wildlife with plenty of opportunities to observe Red deer, wild goats, seals, otters, golden eagles and if you are lucky enough dolphins and porpoises. There are plenty of things to do as a family on Jura including; renting a bike and cycling to the crofting communities, hiring a rowing boat to go mackerel fishing and collecting mussels on the rocky coastline. Or if this all sounds too exhausting just take a book and enjoy the views.

Please go to www.gealachlan.co.uk or call 07906 158641 for further details.

Afternoon tea at Almond Valley Between Monday and Friday every day until the end of March visitors can book an afternoon Tea in the tearoom.

It’s a fantastic deal at just £9.95 per adult and £4.95 per child as it includes admission to Almond Valley too!

There's a tasty, tempting, tiered array of sandwiches, savouries and cakes for the grown-ups, and a perfect miniature version especially for the kids. All very dainty. All very refined.

What's better still is that fives and under’s can enjoy a camping adventure deep in the teddy bear woods; a warm, bear-infested corner the tearoom that will remain in place until the end of March. Bring along your own soft toy if you like - they eat for free....!

Advance booking is required.

Go to www.almondvalley.co.uk

Montessori Mornings “Play with me, mama!” Do you find yourself torn between wanting to play with your little one and getting things done?

As with anything, it’s a question of balance – and forward thinking! Every child wants to be independent, and playing, being creative and becoming deeply engrossed are part of the process. At Montessori Mornings we believe the adult’s role is to “help me do it by myself” – so we carefully prepare the environment with toys that appeal especially to babies, toddlers and pre-schoolers.

Spending regular, high quality time with your child while working with beautiful, unique and educational activities that they can gradually do by themselves helps build independence naturally. Our classrooms are run by Montessori-trained early childhood guides on Monday and Thursday mornings in Bruntsfield and on Tuesday mornings in Stockbridge.

See website for details: www.montessorimornings.com

Beano the Clown Magic, Balloons, Songs & Games

Holiday Cottage on the Isle of Jura.

Modern, comfortable and family friendly.

Tel: 07948-070 569

Sleeps 6.

Beautifully situated and surrounded by fantastic scenery.

Plenty of wildlife and lots to do.

Web: Beano.theclown.free.fr

www.gealachlan.co.uk 07906 158641

-5s & +5s, 1hr & 2 hr,

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salt therapy - A Natural Remedy Ease the symptoms of asthma, allergies, coughs, colds and eczema naturally, at Edinburgh’s only Salt Cave, while your children have fun in the salt!

As our environment has become increasingly polluted, there has been an increase in respiratory problems for both adults and children.

The good news is that children respond rapidly and more intensively than adults to most forms of therapy and this is also the case with Salt Therapy. The benefit of Salt Therapy is that it is 100% drug free and non-invasive, which is ideal for children.

Whether your child is suffering from allergies, an ear infection, frequent colds or asthma, Salt Therapy helps reduce inflammation, open clogged passageways, loosen up mucus, and kill germs and bacteria. In addition, it will also boost your child's immune system.

As children play, they inhale dry, salt-enriched air deep into their lungs, making their breathing easier after just a few sessions. Help them avoid serious skin conditions or respiratory illnesses with the power of Salt Therapy!

The Salt Cave, Meadowbank, Edinburgh, is open Tuesday to Saturday, and your first session is free!

Call on 0131 510 1091 or email edinburgh@saltcave.co.uk or visit www.saltcave.co.uk A whole host of comedians and celebrities will be supporting this year’s Red Nose Day on Friday 24th March to help transform lives here at home in the UK and across Africa.

In 2015, the generous people of Scotland raised and donated more than £2.9 million.

This money has been hard at work in the local area, with more than 167 projects funded across Scotland.

Emeli Sande said: “Let’s go Scotland!! Wear your noses with pride. Red Nose Day is back on Friday 24th March. Put the date in your diary. Let’s get involved.

Order your fundraising kit at rednoseday.com and let’s raise as much as we can.”

the Buggy Repair Centre The Buggy Repair Centre is an independent local Edinburgh business that professionally valets, services and repairs, buggies and prams from all over central Scotland. Their valeting process uses high pressurised steam and no harsh chemicals.

Steam kills bacteria, neutralises odours and is environmentally friendly. If they can get it out they will, mould, stains, oil and sunscreen are not a problem.

The Buggy Repair Centre is one of the leading buggy repairers in the Scotland sourcing parts from most well known manufacturers. Typical repairs are foam replacement, faulty brakes, chassis jammed, wheels worn out, cables snapped, bearings gone etc.. They are an authorised Macalren service center and specialise in Bugaboo repairs.

They can also supply a hire buggy and have a collection service from within the Edinburgh area. www.buggyrepaircentre.co.uk enquiry@buggyreapircentre.co.uk 13 St Stephen St. EH3 5AN 0131 226 4141

Outdoor tipi Cinema Get the kids out the house and into the garden to sit back and watch their favourite film or tv show in their own incredible private cinema viewing!

Get a few friends round and let us look after the kids while you hide in the house.

A great way to celebrate a birthday, an addition to a garden party or just an excuse to get a few hours to yourself. Contact us today about our Tipi Cinemas and Gaming Tipis! www.ActivityDelivered.com

stress Free Parties Bowling parties are a fun and inexpensive way to celebrate your special occasion.

No matter what the weather may be, your party can go off without complications at The World of Bowling.

Whether you're planning a corporate event, a child's birthday party, a school group or reunion, you're going to have a great time at The World of Bowling. Not only can we help you have fun bowling, we can also provide wonderful food and drink for your group. www.worldofbowling.com World of Bowling, 11 Newmarket Road, EH14

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Open Day steAM exhibition at edinburgh Montessori Arts school on saturday 25th March.

Visit the school; meet the teachers; see the children showcase their sciences, maths and arts work; meet school families and tour the campus. Doors open 10am - 1pm.

A great opportunity to find out more about Montessori education and view the beautiful EMAS classrooms and garden.

From Parent Child groups through Early Years and Primary, EMAS provides Montessori education and guidance, cultivating children's innate desire to be their best self. emaschool.co.uk

is your child stressed or anxious?

Rosanna Veitch is trained in advanced level counselling skills and her style of work is brief, solution-focused therapy, with a foundation of genuine care and respect.

“Over recent years I have worked with an increasing number of young people - whose stress and struggles all too often manifest as low mood, anxiety problems and various kinds of self harm. It seems so important that, as they find their place in this fast-paced world, young people are supported in effective ways to find healing, resilience and the ability to self-care. Stress and anxiety overwhelm the brain's capacity to think well and learn” Together with proven techniques to reduce this distress, Rosanna has completed specialist training in boosting students' abilities in learning and exam performance.

To gain perspective, find a sense of calm and a new understanding with which to care for inner life is really the essence of her work. Within each of us is the wisdom to live well and, with a little clearing of those habitual 'patterns' of thought or behaviour which don't serve us well, the 'space' to hear oneself grows.

“I have for many years now felt privileged to have people of all ages sit with me in my home whilst we use progressive techniques and research-based understanding to find the quickest and most empowering ways to create and sustain change. This includes a wide range of emotional and psychological difficulties”.

An initial telephone consultation is free of charge and is a helpful way of finding the most positive way forward.

To find out more and also view many testimonials go to www.effectivecounsellingedinburgh.com

Future Me aims to support families to start a conversation with their children about their hopes and aspirations, which will ultimately help to improve their lives in the future. It asks families to share those dreams, either as a picture, letter or film on the Future Me wall at www.futureme.scot.

Future Me is part of Read, Write, Count which is a Scottish Government campaign that aims to improve key numeracy and literacy skills among children in Primaries 1 to 3. Parents and carers can play a big part in helping children achieve their dreams.

To get involved in the campaign you can enter online at www.futureme.scot or families can head to their local library and post an entry form in the Future Me post box. Each family taking part will receive a certificate and a place on the digital wall for their child.

The Future Me website provides parents and carers with tips and advice about fun and interesting ways to encourage your child to realise their dreams.

11+ and entrance exams at explore Learning Is your child in or approaching Primary 6? Do they have the ambition of going to independent school? If so, we could be the best possible support for them in the build up to their exam and for those bright sparks who want more of a challenge!

With 15 years of experience, we’ve developed a unique programme for 11+ and entrance exam tuition, enabling us to tailor our support to the specific exams of local schools. We welcome all children on board without a pre-test; we simply want them to feel inspired to learn more through this challenging and rewarding course!

Our members regularly attend two types of sessions: one group session designed to support their exam technique, speed, accuracy, and exciting, new skills such as non-verbal and verbal reasoning; and another individualised session, mapped to their ability, to help strengthen the core foundations of maths and English. All of this takes place with the support of our expert tutors in centres that are bursting with positive energy so that each child feels confident and excited for their next step.

Spaces for the course get snapped up rather quickly so for more information about our 11+ and entrance exam courses, and to book a free trial for your child at one of our centres, head to our website: www.explorelearning.co.uk/11-plus-exams.

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watch your chilD shine with la belle arts!

Clubs & Cla

rugbytots

Rugbytots is a highly energetic play programme for boys and girls aged 2-7 years that has run in Scotland since 2008 with classes all over Scotland.

One mum recently commented 'Many thanks, Rugbytots has been by far the best activity that we have taken part in and worth every penny for the range of skills and the discipline.’

Come along and join in the fun! We have classes running throughout Edinburgh and the Lothians. Check our website at www.rugbytots.co.uk to find your nearest venue. If you have any questions, please e-mail sandra@rugbytots.co.uk or call 0845 313 3252

Monkey DraMa, Monkey DraMa… what will we Do toDay? New Performing Arts School in Corstorphine.

We inspire our students to discover and develop their potential in a supportive environment - at their own pace! Our industry experienced teachers create dynamic performers with the confidence to take on the world.

Musical Theatre | Ballet | Jazz | Singing | Drama | Street Dance ( 5 - 18 years ) AND ‘BabyBelles Boogie' - Fun- filled, Unique Dance & Music class for Little Ones (2 - 4.5 years) on Friday (10 - 10.45 am) & Saturday (9.30 - 10.15am) "..at BabyBelles, Emily is smiling, dancing and laughing all the way through. Miss Christie has a lovely way with the wee boys & girls meaning Emily is excited about every class. What a great place!”

In this class we learn how to stretch our muscles, dance with others and how to move our bodies. We play with colourful ribbons and bells and learn a new dance style every few weeks - from Disco to Salsa! Get in touch today to book your first BabyBelles class!

And so you can discover the joy of performing too..

Adult Ballet | Adult Boogie Effect! - A Dance Workout for Body, Mind & Soul 'Vintage Belles' - A Gentle Dance and Fitness class for Mature Students Enrol your child today and receive an LBA Goodie Bag and 2 tickets to our annual event - ‘La Belle of the Ball’.

Various discounts for classes available. www.labellearts.co.uk christie@labellearts.co.uk @labelleartsedinburgh 07525423414

DevelopMent through DraMa Communication skills are the key to success in life!

For 35 years Helen O’Grady’s acclaimed self development programme has been helping children across the world develop social skills that make the journey through life much easier.

If your child would like to have fun, meet new friends, perform in a play then BOOK NOW! Our acclaimed curriculum achieves outstanding results.

Teaches self-control, discipline, tolerance & empathy Develops confidence, public speaking & communication skills Deals with conflict resolution in real life situations & an understanding of how we react.

Develops creativity by exploring emotions and thoughts This term all classes in the Academy will rehearse a short scripted play which they will perform at the theatre for parents and friends. This is a fantastic opportunity for all involved and everyone can contribute in their own unique way.

Classes are held weekly in: Linlithgow, Wishaw, Corstorphine, Edinburgh South, Broxburn, Leith, Musselburgh, Bonnyrigg, Hawick, Galashiels, Livingston, Motherwell.

We are delighted to announce that we have opened a NEW EDINBURGH CLASS ON A SATURDAY Call 0131 667 0939 or 07701 333476 email midscot@helenogrady.co.uk to book a FREE TRIAL (no experience necessary) www.helenogrady.co.uk

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Looking for a fun, award winning drama class to take your 2-5 year old to? Then Monkey Drama is the class for you! We go on the best adventures of the imagination, using drama, props, music and role-play to help children explore their worlds creatively. Every week is a different theme and as well as having lots of fun, the children can build confidence and enhance their personal and social skills.

There really is no adventure like a Monkey Drama adventure. Monkey Drama run classes across Edinburgh, Glasgow and everywhere in between. Check out the website and facebook page for more info.

Monkey Drama is all about letting the children engage in structured dramatic play by jumping right into the heart of the chosen story while parents sit and watch. We also deliver amazing parties for children aged 3-6 which offer excellent value for money and non stop fun.

Get in touch with alana@monkeydrama.co.uk, call 07736298013, check us out on facebook or visit our website www.monkeydrama.co.uk

la classe - online French lessons I offer online French lessons for all levels and for all walks of life, tutoring for High School pupils & conversation classes.

I am a native French Speaker, Chartered teacher with over 14 years of experience and registered with the GTCS My lessons are structured. I share the learning objectives, success criteria and next steps of each lesson. I use online tools to expand the vocabulary, improve the listening and reading skills of my students.

I create bespoke lessons according to your needs and also tailor them according to your interests as I believe the more passionate you are about a topic, the better you will improve your skills.

I would be delighted to facilitate your learning journey whether you are a beginner, intermediate or advanced learner. See you soon on Skype.

Contact : estelle@laclassedestelle.com Website : www.laclassedestelle.com

Dance For all Dance For All is now taking bookings for their Summer Term dance classes: 18th April – 1st July 2017.

“My daughter has been attending for 7 years and has never once grumbled about it. It has helped her selfconfidence enormously.” ~ Sophie, mum to 11yr old pupil.

Established in 1985, Dance For All, nurtures pupils aged 2½ - 18yrs to enjoy and excel in the finest dance genres, including RAD Ballet, ISTD Tap, SDS Flamenco, Jazz and Contemporary. Principal, Tracy Hawkes, leads an inspirational faculty of staff in delivering award-winning professional dance training and over 70 weekly child, teen & adult classes (beginners - advanced).

“It’s never boring, always fun and you make life-long friends.” ~ Aimee, 15-year-old pupil (12 years with DFA).

Browse testimonials, timetables, photo galleries & much more on www.danceforall.co.uk or call 0131 226 5533.

asses NeWs

yogahealth edinburgh

DnDance

Children's Yoga Birthday Parties Family Yoga Yoga for Holistic Hen Parties Lunchtime Office Yoga

DNDance is delighted to offer MOVERS classes in Leith.

MOVERS in an electric mix of Street and Dance Arco. Developing strength, co-ordination and flexibility. Join us on a Friday at The Out Of The Blue Drill Hall, free on street parking and a cafe on sight.

Classes for age 2, age 3-5 and age 6+ Contact Nicky to book your free trial class nicky@dndance.co.uk 07545551271

www.yogahealthedinburgh.com yogahealthedinburgh@gmail.com 07791 940625

DiD you notice soccerstarts has changeD its logo?

You might remember this logo but this is the lovely one you should look out for now.

Soccerstarts Football Academy has fantastic football skills classes for children on the following days.

Saturday am at Musselburgh Sports Centre.

Sunday am at Engage Sports centre, Napier University, Calder Road, Edinburgh.

Sunday afternoon at Westwoods Health Club, Fettes, Edinburgh.

Classes start from Walking age so we provide great classes for under 5’s as well as children of Primary school age.

Soccerstarts Football Academy also provide fantastic value birthday parties for children from 3 years old- 12 years old and also One to one and small group coaching to really develop your childs technical football skills.

For more information please view www.soccerstartsfootballacademy.co.uk or email b.robertson@soccerstarts.co.uk

yoga health eDinburgh Yoga for the whole family!

For children yoga helps build concentration, creates balance between body and mind, increases strength and flexibility, develops discipline and self control, increases coordination and balance.

It’s also fun!

Naomi also offers kids yoga parties in Edinburgh and family yoga (for ages 3+) Wednesday 7pm - 8pm. Midweek yoga all abilities, everyone welcome Skye room Marchmont St Giles Kilgraston Road Thursday 12 - 1pm. Lunchtime Yoga all abilities, everyone welcome Midlothian Innovation Centre Thursday 4.15pm - 5.15pm. Teen Yoga Girls (12+) Christ Church Centre Holy Corner Find out more at www.yogahealthedinburgh

portobello Music school Now in its 11th year, Portobello Music School provides comprehensive music education to over 350 students aged birth to teens from across Edinburgh and the Lothians. They now have weekday Baby and Toddler Music Classes in Musselburgh and Portobello with students graduating to the Saturday Music School in Portobello at age 3. Children aged preschool to primary 2 attend a series of progressive creative music classes which prepare them for group instrumental lessons starting in primary 3. Children can choose from a wide range of instruments including: flute, clarinet, saxophone, violin, guitar, piano and drums, taught by an enthusiastic team of highly experienced music teachers. As well as receiving instrumental tuition, which includes annual ABRSM Music Medal Examinations, children also attend weekly Kodály-based musicianship classes which develop essential aural skills and music theory.

For further information and/or to enrol, please visit www.portobellomusicschool.com or tel: 0131 623 2513

Drawing classes For chilDren ageD 8 to teens.

Sally-Ann Johns is a professional artist who exhibits her work internationally and has many years of experience working with children.

The children will be encouraged to draw from life and create from their imagination, using a large range of materials, such as pastels, paints, charcoal and clay. They will learn to talk about their work, all while learning about different artists and art history and experiencing an artist’s studio.

All materials are provided.

Courses are 11 weeks long and cost £165 per term.

Friday 2 - 3.30m and 4 - 5.30pm. Classes are limited to 4 students so early booking is advisable.

One to one and portfolio preparation classes are also available upon request.

All classes are held at Beaverhall Art Studios, 27 Beaverhall Road, Edinburgh, EH4 7JE. Sally-Ann is DBS checked and Public Liability insured.

See her work at www.sallyannjohns.com.

Leith Dance Classes from age 2!

Dynam-nic Dance are delighted to be offering ‘MOVERS’ classes on Fridays in Leith. An electric mix of Street & Tiny Movers - 2yrs 11.45am - 12.15pm Little Movers - 3 & 4yrs 12.15pm - 1pm Mini Movers 5 - 8yrs 1pm - 1.45pm

Acro Dance, developing co-ordination, strength and rhythm.

Out of the Blue Drill Hall, Dalmeny Street, Just off Leith Walk

Reserve your place now QUOTE ‘OOTBDrilloffer’ for 2 free classes 07545 551 271 nicky@dndance.co.uk www.dndance.co.uk

eDinburgh Dance acaDeMy Alongside classes in ballet, modern, jazz, tap, contemporary, acro and hip hop, EDA also has its own Edinburgh Dance Company. EDA students have performed at The Dance Proms at the Royal Albert Hall in London, represented Scotland in the Dance World Cup and were successful in bringing home two silver and four bronze medals.

“We pride ourselves on giving the very best to our students, offering workshops throughout the year with some fantastic artists. This is of course on top of our own fantastic teaching faculty.”

Edinburgh Dance Academy firmly believes that self expression is a wonderful way for children to improve their social skills and build their confidence. The world of dance is an exciting place to be – a place where children can forget worries.

They go into the studio for an hour and they can let themselves go – they can be a wave on a beach or a tiger in the jungle – they can be what they are – children! Our classes range from age 2 and a half yrs - Adult.

We are delighted to be opening a new junior branch in north east Edinburgh especially in such a beautiful studio!

Please contact our office to arrange a free trial lesson - 0131 337 3402

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Parent Parent Alana Myant is the Owner and Founder of Early Years Drama business, Monkey Drama. Alana lives in Craiglockhart with her husband Kevin, 7 month old son Archie and 4 year old daughter Hanna. Alana has both a Performing Arts degree and Script writing MA which inspired her to create Monkey Drama while on Maternity leave in 2012, and since then Monkey Drama has had the pleasure of delivering hundreds of drama adventures to children.

Favorite shop: My favourite shop is probably Poundland! I buy lots of crafts and things to make props for my classes and always find random things to use in my classes that the kids love…like pots of slime, gadgets, rubber snakes etc…

Most embarrassing moment (with child): – The public announcements in restaurants/shops after my daughter has been for a number two are always a head in hands moment. She likes to announce proudly, exactly where she has been and what she has done.

Favourite park: – Living so close to the Dell and Water of Leith we often walk to Spylaw and walk lots in general around the area and we also like to walk along to Harrison Park.

Funniest comment (from child): – The kids in my classes have amused me so many times. A reason I love working with kids is because of the hilarious things they say. I don’t think I could pick one funny comment. There are too many…and my daughter is the funniest person I know. She cracks me up on a daily basis.

Favourite day out: We love being outside and don’t let the weather put us off going anywhere. We also love a trip to Almond Valley or we can spend hours in the National Museum!

Favourite child friendly restaurant: – Well it was our local, the Blue Goose until it suddenly closed! My daughter would probably say anywhere that has pizza!

Proudest eco-friendly moment: – My daughter loves making things so we always put our recycling stuff to good use by making things to play with, like robots, houses, space ships etc…out of toilet rolls, cereal boxes and our old milk cartons. This year while on maternity leave, I have also made a deal with myself to use my car less and walk more where possible.

No parent should be without: – Coffee. It’s essential! Especially for those sleepless nights which my baby seems to love. Oh, and baby wipes. Baby wipes solve many problems.

Parenting pet hates: – Sharp plastic small toys being left on the floor for my feet to stand on. The pain is like no other. Oh and lids being left off pens and letting them dry out. Gggrrrr.

Parenting high points (what makes it all worthwhile): – The simple things like cuddles and smiles make it all worth while. Just looking at my kids makes me feel very proud. I sometimes look at them in amazement and can’t believe how lucky I am to have to awesome little people.

Favourite family holiday spot: – A campsite in France is always our first choice, in a caravan and not a tent! Great fun, lots of space, sunshine and a hire car to explore everywhere. Ruins, castle, swimming pools and red wine!

Best children’s book: – Roahl Dahl’s books are by far the best children’s books. He was a great inspiration to me growing up and influenced my creative thinking from an early age. The Witches is probably my favourite. LOVE all the characters in his books and the fact that he allows children to be a bit afraid!

Best DVD: – Now that is a difficult question. Alice in Wonderland and Peter Pan are both favourites of mine.

Most played with toys: – Lego is very popular in this house.

My daughter could spend hours with it! Although standing on it… aaarrrggghhh.

Most successful recipe/food: – Chilli Con Carne or Curry are the hands down winners in this house.

Why you like living where you do: – You can feel like you are out of the city by walking 5 minutes down the road and into the Dell or up Craiglockhart Hill. Its also perfect for public transport and nice and central.

As parents in Edinburgh you have so much fantastic local knowledge - if you would like to share your favorite bits of being a parent and living in our fantastic city then please email: editor@familiesedinburgh.co.uk

Rosanna Veitch effective solutions - counselling for true change With 30 years experience of helping people to create and sustain positive change.

Specialising in helping young people and boosting exam performance.

effectivecounsellingedinburgh.com 0131-449-2580 8 FAMILIES EDINBURGH ISSUE 101

Tips to get your child to go outdoors this spring Numerous studies have shown the benefits of fresh air and good, old-fashioned outdoor fun.

Proven to increase children’s activity levels, alertness and general health, it’s also a great way to get their minds and their imaginations working.

The trick is not to make it feel forced, but rather fun. So wrap everyone up warm, put all the scarves and gloves everyone refuses to wear in your bag until they want them (and they will want them!) and get outside!

1.

Do some wildlife watching According to research by the Kaiser Family Foundation, some children spend more than seven hours a day on electronic media. Luckily, the best antidote for gamer’s eye and texter’s thumb is a simple one: a different kind of mental and visual stimulation in the form of wildlife watching. Helping children to better appreciate the birds and beasts around them is a great way to engage their senses and educate them on the environment. If you want to make the day extra exciting, turn it into a photo safari and have them snap pictures of any animals they spot.

2.

Turn detective for the day Woodland walks are one way to get your children moving, but to make sure that they don’t get bored and try to avoid going out again in the future, turn the day into a game. Compile a list of things to find in the forest, from certain types of flowers to feathers, leaves, and even animal droppings. Get them to tick these off their list as they locate them. The more they find, the more points they get, with a small prize at the end for the victor. Such games are guaranteed to not only be fun, but also to get all of their senses switched on and their attention focused on the task at hand.

3.. Collect and craft Another idea for woodland walks is to get your children to collect items that they can later use to make crafts. Encourage them to search around for the most beautiful bits and bobs that they can find, whether these are flowers, feathers, or even pretty rocks. Once you’re at home, let them showcase their findings, and spend some time teaching them about the things they’ve discovered, such as which birds their feathers came from. Then, get out the glue and the glitter and get to work. Their imaginations should soon be working overtime.

4.

BASED IN CORSTORPHINE

Encourage them to cloud gaze As free as the air you breathe, cloud gazing has always been associated with daydreamers and there are worse things that your child could be. Encouraging them to pick out shapes in the sky will get their imaginations working overtime and is a truly fantastic catalyst for creativity. Afterwards, have them make stories from the images they imagined, or else paint their own cloudy pictures.

For more fun things to see and do in the great outdoors, visit

Edinburgh

www.familiesonline.co.uk

CLASSES IN BALLET, TAP, JAZZ, MUSICAL THEATRE AND PERFORMANCE GROUP AGES 3 - ADULT PHONE: 07718044369 douglasdance252@gmail.com 9 FAMILIES EDINBURGH ISSUE 101

PREGNANCY AND BABY

Knotstressed Pregnancy, Birth and Baby Open Day on Saturday 25th March at KnotStressed Therapies 40-42 Montrose Terrace, Edinburgh EH7 5DL Raise money for a good cause and treat yourself this Mother’s Day weekend to some pampering time out with or without your little ones. All proceeds raised on the day will go to the Special Care Babies Unit at Simpson's Edinburgh Royal Infirmary.

Snap up a 45-minute Pregnancy, Postnatal, or Indian Head Massage for just £15. Don’t miss out a 15-minute Hand Massage for £3 with delicious Neal’s Yard Organic Hand Cream. Delve into the wide range of pregnancy, birth and postnatal services that we offer at our cosy city-centre clinic - take part in a low-cost /free workshop, talk or taster session.

Workshops £3 per person (unless otherwise stated)

• Pregnancy & Childbirth Meet a Midwife Session with Jenny Patterson, Midwife (donations welcome)

£15 Massage Tasters for Pregnancy/Postnatal Massage, Indian Head Massage for Pregnancy, Swedish/Deep Tissue and Indian Head Massage for New Mums Claire Black • Gabe Stewart • Juan Mases

• New Understanding of Baby Behaviour to Support Breastfeeding with Karla Napier, Lactation Consultant (donations welcome)

£3 Seated Neal's Yard Organics Hand Massage Clare Kennedy • Daniela Coronado • Krista Black

• Pregnancy, Birth & Postnatal Meet a Doula Session (donations welcome) with Robyn Theobald and Fiona Reilly, Birth and Postnatal Doulas

You are also most welcome to drop in for a cuppa and chat to our practitioners during a ‘Meet and Greet Session’ at specific times during the day.

• Early Morning Postnatal Yoga with Penny Horner, Yoga Teacher • Relax and Sing Baby Massage & Yoga with Jenni Lloyd, Relax & Sing Instructor

• Pregnancy Yoga with Penny Horner, Yoga Teacher • Baby Signing with Onie Tibbitt, Baby Signing Instructor • Parent Skills with Sarah Wheatley, Counsellor specialising in Perinatal Mental Health • Mother & Baby Yoga with Penny Horner, Yoga Teacher • Weaning and Nutrition for New Mums Q&A with Dr. Ilienia Paciarotti, Nutritionist (donations welcome)

To book a space or find out more, please contact us at relax@knotstressed.com or 07540 809 944 or visit www.knotstressed.com/open-day for the full timetable.

• Relax and Breathe Birthing: introduction to hypnobirthing and relaxation with Onie Tibbitt, Relax & Breathe Birthing Trainer (donations welcome) • Yoga Nidra for Pregnancy/Birth/Postnatal with Bev, B-Yoga Teacher

Daisy Birthing™

£ TR 10 O CO EA FF 'm UR Tm yO OT S En UR HE E - T, F R' qU 1-1 IRS S O O T DA TE R y'

Gentle yoga for Women • mind-Body Relaxation for Fertility • yoga for Fertility • Pregnancy massage • nutrition for Pregnancy and new mums • Hypnotherapy for Pregnancy, Birth and Postnatal • Reflexology • Pregnancy yoga • Counselling for Pregnancy, Birth and Postnatal • midwife-Led Pregnancy and Birth Information Evenings • Doula Support • Relax and Breathe Birthing • Postnatal massage • Breastfeeding Consultations • Relax and Sing Baby massage and yoga • Baby Signing • mother and Baby yoga • Weaning Workshops • yoga nidra for Pregnancy, Birth & Postnatal • Restorative yoga • qi Gong for Pregnancy relax@knotstressed.com 07540 809 944

www.knotstressed.com GIFT VOUCHERS AVAILABLE

10 FAMILIES EDINBURGH ISSUE 101

Are you expecting and wondering where to turn for education, support and friendship during pregnancy? Do you want to prepare for birth with confidence?

Join local mums-to-be at Daisy Birthing to learn, move, breathe and relax - a supportive birth preparation course to help you look forward to birth with confidence and positivity.

The Daisy Foundation Edinburgh runs weekly classes which combine your antenatal and active birth education with gentle movements for your pregnancy wellbeing and develops a toolkit of techniques to help keep you calm during labour, birth and beyond.

All birth choices welcomed and supported, classes are suitable from 14 weeks.

Each course of Daisy Birthing is supported by a half day birth preparation workshop for you and your birth partner. You will also be able to join a friendly online group of local mums, a really lovely community which is an important part of The Daisy Foundation Edinburgh with monthly meet ups and regular events.

To find out more and reserve your place on the next six week course email kathryn-lawrence@thedaisyfoundation.com

Antenatal Classes for Dads!

Dads Rock who currently run free playgroups for Dads/Granddads and other male carers have again teamed up with NHS Lothian to deliver antenatal classes for new dads.

Classes will give dads the chance to practice bathing the baby, as well as how to put on a nappy, and sooth the new born. Dads will also be given the chance to talk about how post natal depression impacts both dads and mums.

The classes will be a mix of practical and essential softer skills for new dads, giving them hands on experience, and sharing tips from existing dads on how best to support mums. The classes will also give the dads a chance to ask any questions and discuss what they can expect about being a new parent.

The classes will be based in Wester Hailes Healthy Living Centre, on Tuesday evenings (6.30 - 8.30pm). Find our more www.dadsrock.org.uk The next block begins on April 4th and runs for 4 classes.

To book email david@dadsrock.org.uk or call 07542 084 356

Classes for Baby and You Take a look at the wonderful classes on offer for you and your baby during your first year together. Spend some special time together with the added bonus of meeting other parents and babies.

froM BirTh BaBy sensory

BaBy sTeps

Baby Sensory’s multi-award winning classes will introduce you and your baby to a world of sensory delights, where the two of you can relax, spend quality time with each other and enjoy meeting other new parents. Specifically designed from birth, the programme is packed with an incredible variety of sounds, smells, sights, textures, music, dance, signing and massage – and you’ll never experience the same class twice.

A magical world, full of glowing balls, light shows, puppets, bubbles, petals, rainbows, even an underwater experience of breathtaking imagination.

Everything we do is backed by scientific research, carefully designed with your baby’s development in mind, and we’re passionate about sharing our knowledge. The first year of your baby’s life is the most important, soon after birth the brain starts creating two million new connections every second! So come, have some fun and let’s make the most of this very special time. www.babysensory.com

Current block running until the end of March, Thursdays at 1 - 1.45pm.

The class incorporates stimulation and one-toone interaction using sensory, props, music and baby yoga. There is also the option to dance with your baby in a sling, giving parents a chance to stretch and enjoy movement with their babies.

What better way to learn than through an explosion of colour, sound and rhythm to stimulate your baby and aid cognitive development?

Baby Steps Café Spending time with other parents and babies is important too, so we’ve created an informal baby café after each session. We provide tea, cake and biscuits for parents and toys for babies. A great chance to relax together in our sensory play area. www.dancebase.co.uk

creaTive Music classes for BaBies

Jack anD Jill Music fun for ToTs

Babies and toddlers love music, puppets, bouncing and tickling games, rhymes, singing books, simple instruments and time with their carer just having fun. Classes combine all of these elements to make varied, fun filled sessions, which introduce all of the the basics of music making. www.portobellomusicschool.com

Quavers Class (Friday 11.10am) Early learning is encouraged through stimulating and multi-sensory musical activities shared between adult and child.

Call Mary on 07809 154415 or email: info@jackandjill-music.co.uk

froM 6 weeks Daisy BaBy™ Daisy Baby Tinies is a first stage class for you and your new baby.

Sessions include gentle movement, massage and soft stretch, along with tips and techniques to help soothe and settle your new baby and newborn education to help you understand and navigate the first few months with your baby. And there is time for Mum too, with each class including peer support, gentle postnatal movements and finishing with a mum and baby relaxation. The Daisy Foundation Edinburgh offers small inclusive classes suitable from 6 weeks, which are a great way to meet other new Mums too. Contact Kathryn on 07968 200760 or kathryn-lawrence@thedaisyfoundation.com to find out more and book.

froM 3 MonThs Monkey Music - rock’n’roll

Jo Jingles -Jingle BaBies

Pave the way for your child’s future emotional and intellectual development with: • A stimulating musical environment.

• Gentle songs and fascinating sounds.

• Absorbing activities and precious shared moments.

Find out more at www.monkeymusic.co.uk

Babies enjoy a gentle and relaxed introduction to singing, musical instruments and movement. Parents/Carers can join in as much or little as they like - the more enthusiastic you are, the more your baby will benefit. Find out more at www.jojingles.com/edinburgh

froM 4 MonThs

froM 6 MonThs

Talking ToTs

TuMBle ToTs

BabyTalk is a new 6 week course focusing on early interactions and the development of communication skills with your baby, covering topics such as eyecontact, copying and first words. Along with heuristic play and relaxed discussion, BabyTalk is a great way to meet other Mums too!

Call 07595 002278 or email zoe@talkingtots.info

With parent involvement, each 45 minutes session helps to stimulate and encourage babies to use all their senses, gently and without pressure. Playing, exploring, crawling and learning together in a fun and relaxed atmosphere.

Contact Jo to find out more - 01875 819966

The springboard to confidence for your child Britain’s leading National Active Physical Play Programme for children from 6 months to 7 yrs

pa we rti d es o to o!

Morningside, Joppa, Fairmilehead, and Marchmont contact Jo – 01875 819966

www.tumbletots.com/Edinburgh

daisy birthing The groundbreaking active antenatal Class TM

The Daisy Foundation Edinburgh t: 07968 200760 e: kathryn-lawrence@thedaisyfoundation.com

The Daisy Foundation - Empowering education and support through pregnancy to parenthood

11 FAMILIES EDINBURGH ISSUE 101

Stop giving yourself a hard time.

It’s OK that we can’t do it all.

Honest, it is.

Life sometimes feels like a constant juggling act.

The wonderful nurturing parent you are wants to give your child your undivided attention (while they are taking an absolute age to tell you about their best friends new socks) but your mobile is flashing and you know there’s a message/email that also wants your immediate reply…and then you remember you still haven’t taken the washing out of the machine….

Trying to manage and coordinate everybody’s timetable, work, the house, friends and extended family can be a Herculean task.

But if you took a step back from the home and compared it to how a work environment operates there are some really obvious differences.

In work, for example, would one person run around frantically while everyone else sits around letting them pick up everything they’d dropped on the floor? No, that very much wouldn’t happen!

Catherine Fitch was chatting to a few of her Mum and Dad friends in the school playground recently and what became very apparent is that in our working environment we tend to delegate or break down tasks to achieve an overall objective and yet in our personal life we seem to think we have to take on all the responsibilities of maintaining some kind of normality.

Catherine is a local parent and also runs Time For You. “Here are few things that work for a few of my friends and I that have kept us in the right side of sanity especially during term time”.

•

Take one of your annual leave days just for you – not to be in for gas meter check or furniture delivery, not to catch up with ironing. But a full day when your kids are at school, everyone else is at work or if you are a full time parent then a day not cooking, cleaning or sorting for others. Take a walk in the park, go for lunch, potter around town, go to a free Art Gallery or Museum whatever it is that you don’t normally get chance to enjoy by yourself.

•

Get some help around the house, for example a cleaner in each week to tackle the big cleaning jobs so you don’t have to worry about getting it done at the weekend or a gardener every few months to give things a good tidy up. One of my friends has her neighbours 15 year daughter come round between 3pm and 5.30pm to play with her two kids twice a week. It gives my friend chance to prepare dinner, make a few phone calls whist her kids get to play and have fun.

•

Switch your mobile phone / tablet / laptop etc off for 1 hour every day. This gives you a break from the ever constant notifications, messages or calls that endlessly distract us and can ultimately prove stressful. A number of my friends have now taken their social media apps of their phones and only check once in a while from their home computer, this has saved them so much time as they hadn’t realised how distracting all the checking had become.

•

Try and have at least one day of the school week where there isn’t a club, class or playdate to go to but you can just be at home and enjoy the afternoon for a few hours with your wee ones.

And finally, it’s OK to have Baked Beans on toast for dinner once in a while – quick, easy, takes minutes to make and more importantly minutes to clear up afterwards!

12 FAMILIES EDINBURGH ISSUE 101

Family-Friendly Tips

for a Hassle-Free Move Family life can be busy (okay, that’s a bit of an understatement), so the added stress of selling your home and buying another one can seem pretty daunting. At Gibson Kerr, we understand family life and with 30 years’ experience in the Edinburgh property market, our aim is to make the process as smooth and painless as possible. Here are our top tips for selling and buying a home in Edinburgh.

1. Set the right asking price Setting the asking price right at the outset increases the likelihood of a quick sale.

Keep in mind the price you want to achieve and ask for professional advice. We provide free, no-obligation valuations that take into account recent sales, the local area and property features and we can advise you on what asking price to go for.

Don’t automatically go for the highest asking price. Be realistic and you’ll stand a much better chance of getting a lot of interest.

2. Sell before buying We know how it goes. You see a lovely property in the perfect area, at a price you’re happy with and you fall in love with it. It’s tempting to put an offer in then and there, and we understand that.

However, we would always advise that you get your own property on the market and get an offer or at least notes of interest before you do. For a start, you stand a much better chance of getting an offer accepted if you’ve already agreed a sale.

Also, you will know exactly how much money you can offer. The home buying and selling market in Edinburgh can be competitive and the stronger your position to complete, the better your chances. At Gibson Kerr, we will always advise you on the best course of action for your individual circumstances.

3. Consider catchment areas If you have pre-school or school age kids, it’s always best to double check the catchment areas for schools when making an offer on a new home. These can change from year to year and you want to make sure you don’t miss out on the school you want. Check at www.edinburgh.gov.uk for map downloads.

4. Be prepared to be flexible One thing we know about buying and selling properties in Edinburgh is to always expect the unexpected. Buyers pulling out, unexpected survey findings and mortgage offer problems are all unwelcome but all-too-frequent occurrences.

At Gibson Kerr, we are committed to ensuring our clients are kept in the loop with information as it happens and we always give professional, friendly advice based on your own circumstances. So, while we can’t stop the unexpected happening, we can make sure you’re in the know and well prepared to deal with it.

So, if you’re thinking about making your next move and want to speak to someone who really understands your families’ needs, why not call Gibson Kerr.

It’s a big move, we know there’s a lot resting on it and we won’t let you down.

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Easter Egg Hunts faBerge egg hunT

©Allan MacDonald

science fesTival 2017: geT connecTeD 1–16 April

Visit us on Easter Sunday and take part in our Faberge Egg Hunt. Join us in the Family Room to make and decorate your own basket and then follow a treasure trail to find eggs hidden around the Palace. In the Great Gallery enjoy traditional Scottish music and dancing throughout the day in our family ceilidh run by local performers CeilidhKids.

Pick up a family activity trail and explore the Palace, Abbey and Gardens. A fun day out for all the family! Opening times 09:30 – 18:00 (last entry 16:30).

COME BACK FOR FREE! Once you have bought a ticket from us, you can use it to come back for FREE for a year! A great way to fill the school holidays at no extra cost!

Palace of Holyroodhouse, Edinburgh

During the school holidays, the Science Festival provides exciting, engaging and educational activities the whole family can enjoy.

City Art Centre, the Festival’s flagship family venue, will be full of the unique immersive workshop experiences the Festival is famous for. Discover what makes an engine tick in Mini Mechanics, step into the Carnival of the Mind to explore your brain, help create humanity’s first Mars colony in Mars Master Constructors or scrub up and save lives in ER Surgery.

Head over to the National Museum of Scotland to explore the ways technology has influenced how we play in Play On, a brand new interactive taking centre stage in the Grand Gallery. There’s also a packed programme of workshops in the Learning Centre and lots of fun free Pop-up Science activities in Hawthornden Court.

The Festival’s Science in the Spotlight programme of science theatre continues with performances of Catherine Wheels Theatre Company’s Lost at Sea and Borderline Theatre’s award-winning Uncanny Valley at Edinburgh’s Festival Theatre Studio and new show Cosmonaut premiering at Summerhall.

Summerhall will be bursting with shows alongside entertaining activities including The Experimentarium, a brand new free Science Festival space packed full of weird, wonderful and cutting edge science. The Edinburgh Mini Maker Faire on Sunday 16 April is a fantastic Festival finale, bringing together makers, tinkerers, hackers, creators and innovators to celebrate the amazing breadth of human creativity.

Don’t miss additional programmes at Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh, Dynamic Earth and RZSS Edinburgh Zoo. Full details and booking at www.sciencefestival.co.uk or call the box office on 0844 557 2686.

easTer fun aT The BiggesT cluB in Town It’s not just the bunnies who get to have all the fun this Easter.

Edinburgh Leisure’s three soft play centres have guaranteed fun and energy burning activities, with the odd bit of chocolate thrown in.

At Tumbles, Portobello, unleash your child’s creative side with crafting sessions, an Easter egg design competition, competition draws and a visit from the Easter bunny.

At Scrambles at EICA, there’s a Teddy Bears picnic (31 March). New for this year, in association with Honeypot Ceramics, there’s Climb, Clay and Play from 2-5pm, Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays, during the holidays. (£25pp). On Tuesday and Thursdays, younger children can enjoy the climbing tower and soft play fun at Pebbles from 2-3.30pm (£12pp).

At Clambers at the Commonwealth Pool, there will be chocolate nest making, an Easter Egg Hunt, cupcake decorating and an Easter Party (13 April) with face painting, an Easter Bonnet competition, egg hunt, games and soft play is sure to keep everyone amused. Check out dates, times and booking information - www.edinburghleisure.co.uk

easTer eggciTeMenT Daily from Saturday 1st April until Monday 17th April Throughout the Easter school break, the farm is alive with the cheeps and bleats of baby animals, who will be introduced to you at handling and encounter sessions. Grab your clue sheet, sharpen your pencil, and tear around the farm collecting clues on the springtime trail. Keep a look out for hidden eggs that might win you a prize. In the craft area you can make bonnets, masks and other springtime decorations. There will be still further special attractions over the four days of Easter (14th to 17th April), including our famous plastic duck race along the mill lade. Almond Valley Heritage Centre.

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Bonkers chocolaTe easTer Trail Saturday 1 - Monday 17 April Bonkers Chocolate Easter Trail 10:00–16.00 daily (last entry to Glasshouses 17.00) For ages 3+. Pick up a trail from the John Hope Gateway reception desk -£2 per trail.

Children always go free into the Glasshouses The Botanics Bunny has invented a scrumptious chocolate bar with a very secret and very bonkers recipe. Can you help him find the missing ingredients? Complete the trail and claim your yummy chocolate reward, from Mackie’s of Scotland, and a special Golden Ticket offering £2 discount for one adult into the Glasshouses to see the most important ingredient – the chocolate tree.

easTer aT The casTle £7 per person. Join us for our popular Easter celebrations on 17th April from 10am - 1pm.

Spend a lovely day with us with woodland trails, egg and spoon race, crafts and Easter treats. Please note this is not a drop-in anytime session, it is structured session lasting the full duration.

Pre booking is essential. Go to usherhall.co.uk and enter Lauriston Castle in the search box 0131 228 1155 (Opening hours: Monday - Saturday 10am-5.30pm) Box Office, Usher Hall, Lothian Road, EH1 2EA

and Days Out seaBirD cenTre

The Seabird Centre goes dolphin-tastic and crab-alicious. Brand new activities this Easter at the Scottish Seabird Centre This Easter, the Scottish Seabird Centre, North Berwick is taking inspiration from all things marine with a brand new interactive science show and a family-friendly puppet performance.

Following feedback from visitors, the Centre is offering these different shows to appeal to the wide range of children that visit: the puppet show is for little ones aged 2+ and the interactive science show is for older children, recommended for age 6+.

What’s for Snack? is an interactive puppet show with new Seabird team member, Craig the Crab. With sing-a-long fun, young visitors will be asked to help Craig who has eaten some marine litter by mistake. He will be joined by some of his seaside friends who will aim to help him get rid of his sore tummy.

Older kids are invited to attend Ocean-a-rific with Dr Dolph Lingerin-aboot. With scientific experiments, games and gaffs, visitors are invited to help dolphins understand what is happening to the seas around Scotland.

The Scottish Seabird Centre is a 35-minute train journey from Edinburgh – 20% discount for those with a valid train ticket from the day of travel.

Visit www.seabird.org for details of what shows are on when. There will be activities in the Discovery Centre from 1 to 17 April, all included with admission. Adult £8.95, child £4.95, family tickets £25.

Traquair house Sunday April 16 Easter Eggstravaganza Grounds open 11.00am, with activities from midday The Biggest egg hunt in the Borders and lots more fun activities all day.

A cracking good Easter Sunday for all the family!

• Easter Egg Hunts in the Traquair Maze for Under 10s • Under 5s Egg Scramble in the Old Walled Garden • Easter Bonnet Making . Egg Decorating • Scavenger Hunt with Big Egg Prizes!

• Spot the Egg Competition in the House • Storytelling • Face Painting • Musical Instrument Making • Michael Angelo Entry to Traquair House is additional.

The Bo’ness & kinneil railway & MuseuM of scoTTish railways – fun for The kiDs Make the most of your visit to central Scotland’s family friendly steam railway and museum when our 2017 season starts on 25 March. Come travel on our steam railway and enjoy Scotland’s largest railway museum. You can show your old fashioned ticket to the Guard, he may even let you help him clip it on the journey! Watch the engine being coupled up to the carriages … is it really magnets that hold them together? Be Harry Potter in a compartment carriage with its own sliding door. Then enjoy some fun with our new brass rubbings on the Visitor Trail to the Museum. In the museum, get hands on and discover railway history through fun interactive displays, have fun sorting letters in the Travelling Post Office! Come along and have a great day out!

14-17 April Easter Egg Specials at The Bo’ness & Kinneil Railway A free tasty Easter treat for every child. Wear your traditional Easter Bonnet for the chance to win a prize and have fun in the Museum hunting the Easter Eggs!

Bo’ness and Kinneil Railway, Union Street, Bo’ness EH51 OAQ www.bkrailway.co.uk

wishing Tree play cafe Join the Easter Bunny at our Mad Hatters Tea Party at Wishing Tree Play Cafe.

Saturday 1st April 2017 from 11 - 1pm & 2 - 4pm

Decorate your very own MAD HAT and take part in our MAD HAT PARADE. Come in fancy dress as your favourite Tea Party character and go on an egg hunt.

Afternoon Tea with loads of yummy chocolate treats.

Bounce around in the soft play.

All children will get a small chocolate egg from the Easter Bunny.

Tickets are limited please make sure you book in advance. £8.95 per child for 1 – 6 yrs and under 1's go Free!

Message us on Facebook to book your ticket or call today on 0131 665 1588

DynaMic earTh From Saturday 1 - 16th April Extreme Events at Dynamic Earth Embark upon the interactive adventures of a lifetime at Dynamic Earth this Easter. Experience the primeval forces of nature and discover how they shaped our planet, journey through space and time and travel the world in four dimensions. Enjoy special screenings, meet the expert events and hands-on activities with your admission.

Extreme Environments: Life at the Poles 5+ Explore Polar wildlife and how it’s specially adapted to survive in harsh climates and discover the exciting research happening at Earth’s Poles helping us understand our past, present and future. Take part in our exciting hands-on activities and challenges and see if you have what it takes to become the ultimate Polar explorer!

Rock Doctors to the Rescue: Meet the Experts 7+ Let us take you on a 145-million-year geological journey deep beneath the North Sea to discover the rocks that can help Britain’s top GeoScientists (Rock Doctors) meet the urgent global climate challenge. Experts will be on hand with fun, family-friendly activities and genuine rock and fossil samples throughout the day.

Creative Science : Ultimate Aliens 5+ If we discovered alien life, what would it look like? Scientists researching extreme environments know what they think, but what about you? Get creative and design your very own ultimate alien to take home with you and explore the world of Astrobiology with drop-in hands-on activities.

See the full programme at www.dynamicearth.co.uk

Fabergé egg Hunt The Palace of Holyroodhouse

COMe BACK FOR FRee!

Sunday 16 April 11:00 – 15:00

Get your ticket Join us in the Palace Family Room to make and decorate your own basket stamped on your first visit and and then follow a treasure trail to find eggs hidden around the Palace. come back as In the Great Gallery enjoy traditional Scottish music and dancing in our many times as family ceilidh run by local performers CeilidhKids. you like at no For full details of events and dates visit extra cost! © Royal Collection Trust/ copyright Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth 2016.

Photographer David Cheskins

www.royalcollection.org.uk/whatson

15 FAMILIES EDINBURGH ISSUE 101

Easter Camps & Activities The school holidays are a great opportunity for our kids to spend some time focusing on an activity they really love or a chance to try something completely new!

How will your kids be spending this Easter break? kiDscene afTer school anD holiDay cluB Kidscene provides after school and holiday care to children aged 4-16, with and without disabilities. We especially welcome children with a visual impairment and we reserve a number of spaces for partially sighted and blind children.

Our recently refurbished premises are within the Royal Blind School campus in Morningside, Edinburgh. Our facilities include a messy room, a play room and a kitchen, all with full disabled access.

Our play room includes a chill out zone, imagination area, construction area, computer and console games, board games and puzzles and sensory area.

We also have access to the Royal Blind School’s facilities including a hydrotherapy pool, sensory garden, soft play area and outdoor multi-use games area.

Please visit www.royalblind.org/child-care for fees and more information.

TuMBle ToTs

Easter Holidays at SASCS Sciennes Primary School 10 Sciennes Road Edinburgh EH9 1LG

Mon 3rd to Fri 7th April Tues 11th to Thurs 13th April Holiday Care – for ages 4.5-12+years (but primarily ages 4.5-7 years).

Holiday Care offers a range of activities including; crafts, science, baking, sports and outdoor games.

Sports Camp – For Primary 5 + Sports camp will offer the children the opportunity to experience a range of different sports.

Online booking ONLY at www.sascs.org.uk is available until 27th March 2017 (midnight).

Please be advised no bookings will be accepted following the closing date.

SASCS is the trading name of Sciennes School After School Care Scheme Registered Scottish Charity Number: SCO23891

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DraMa sTuDio spring holiDay cluB The Drama Studio's very popular Spring Holiday Club for students aged 5-14 is running as follows: 3rd -7th April Liberton Kirk Halls, Kirkgate, Liberton Fantastic weeks meeting new friends, doing activities such as Drama, Art and Craft, puppets, filming, song, dance, dressing up, soft ball, parachute games, performing and outside activities weather permitting.

Different afternoon activities for every age group and Senior Drama Performance Course (The Secret) for age 10 + Go to www.thedramastudio.com to HOLIDAY CLUB and read excellent Parent Reviews, more details and to register.

0131-453-3284 or e-mail info@thedramastudio.com Early Bird Weekly Fees (add £10 after March 1st) - £125 Full days, £75 Mornings, £60-£70 Afternoons (drop-in afternoons also available). Sibling Discounts also until March 1st. A great week guaranteed!

Tumble Tots are running Easter Play Schemes for children from 3 to 7 years at Cluny Centre, 1 Cluny Drive, Morningside.

The children can be left in our care for the two and a half hours, They will enjoy an hour on our fabulous equipment, eat a healthy snack, then spend about an hour on the arts and crafts, brio, jigsaws and play dough, finishing off with the parachute. Fun, Fun and more Fun all for £11.50 per child. Non members more than welcome. Please let your friends know!

We accept Sodexo, Kiddivouchers and Edenred childcare Vouchers.

The sessions will run in the morning from 10am to 12.30pm The dates for the Play Schemes are Monday 3rd, Tuesday 4th, Friday 7th and Tuesday 11th April 2017.

Please call Jo on 01875 819966 for more information and to book your child a place or email Jo on joletelier.lobos@virgin.net we are also on Facebook so please like Tumble Tots Edinburgh East and keep in touch that way.

Easter Camps & Activities Dance Base easTer school Dance : Music Making : Animation Ages 7 – 9 & 10 – 12 | Mon 3 – Fri 7 Apr | 10.00 – 17.00. £125 (£100 for additional children from the same family) This is an Easter School like no other, taking place in the spectacular Dance Base studios in the Grassmarket.

Bring the noise for these fun filled sessions of dance, percussion and animation! Young dancers will shake, rattle and roll while making friends and learning new skills from expert teachers, before sharing their work in front of family and friends at the end of the week.

To book, call 0131 225 5525 or go to dancebase.co.uk

MiDloThian snowsporTs

excel sporTs caMps

Escape the city and visit the stunning hillside of the Pentlands Hills Regional Park and the Midlothian Snowsports Centre, Hillend. Skiing, Snowboarding and Tubing are all available at Britain’s largest artificial slope. Easter junior and kinder ski and snowboard camps are running from 3rd – 7th April and 10th – 13th April.

There’s no need to worry about equipment as we supply it all, even down to poles and helmets.

Midlothian Snowsports Centre, Hillend.

Call 0131 445 4433 now to get booked in.

Excel Sports Camps run every Easter, Summer and October break. Our 2017 Camps are now available to book online www.excel-sports.co.uk Please take a look at our website to see what we have available this year. Excel Sports Camps are run at St Georges School in Murrayfield and we welcome children aged 5 -15 years.

The children follow a structured timetable led by our friendly and experienced staff and sports coaches. Excel promises to make every day special offering a wide variety of sports and activities to ensure maximum fun, enjoyment and the opportunity to learn something new.

Excel is a place to learn, enjoy, develop and meet new friends. Happy children means happy parents. Our Easter camp will have a Life Savings skills course integrated into the week’s sporting activities. The camps are always extremely popular. We look forward to welcoming you and your children this year.

3rd – 7th April Easter Camp £195, 3rd July – 11th August Summer Camps - All Sports Camps every week and 15 different Excel Plus Camps available 16th – 20th October Camp Early bird discount of £15 per week. Book by 1st March 2017. Open 8am-6pm | Packed Day of Activities: 9am-5pm. We Accept Childcare Vouchers

crafTy cooks Crafty Cooks Edinburgh will be running some special Easter Baking sessions during the school holidays.

This is a great chance for you to come along with your children and enjoy a lovely activity together. Children from 2 to 11 are welcome. It is also a great activity for siblings to do together.

Easter is a time for tasty treats so why not come along and make your own! It would be lovely to see you so why not get in touch to book a session.

Call 07900093946. Email Fiona@CraftyCooks.co.uk Facebook Crafty Cooks Edinburgh

eica: raTho Easter Climb, Clay and Play sessions at EICA:Ratho Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays (during holidays) – 25pm – NEW Climb, Clay and Play - £25 pp (max of 4 children per session) – 1 hour climb, 1 hour clay crafting at Honeypot Ceramics, 1 hour soft play Tuesdays, Thursdays, (during holidays) – Pebbles – 2.00-3.30pm - £12 per child - (max of 4 children per session) – climbing tower and soft play Scrambles Soft Play – EICA:Ratho

la Belle arTs easTer school Does your child love musicals? Do they love to boogie to 'Grease' and sing to 'Hairspray'?

Could they be the next 'Matilda' or 'Oliver'?

Performing Arts School, 'La Belle Arts', in Corstorphine is running a 'WEST END' EASTER SCHOOL for children aged 7 - 14 years!

• End of Week Showcase Created & Performed by Your Little Stars.

• Extended Childcare (Drop off after 8am/Pick up before 5pm) • Sibling & Bring A Friend Discounts • DISCOUNT off next term at La Belle Arts • LBA Goodie Bag (Ask us about our 'BROADWAY BABY' Day Workshop in the Easter Holiday for little ones aged 4 - 7 years!)

9 - 3pm, 10-14th of April 2017 MAIN STUDIO - St Thomas' Church, Corstorphine. ONLY £100! Get in touch today for more info! www.labellearts.co.uk christie@labellearts.co.uk 07525423414

Are you looking for Easter entertainment?

Join Puppet Animation Festival for magical performances, workshops and films taking place across Edinburgh from 25 March – 15 April!

To find events in your areas visit: puppetanimationfestival.org @PuppetAnimaScot

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Easter Camps & Activities chilDren's easTer clay workshops aT DooDles

eAsTeR HOlidAy COuRses A FuN ANd exCiTiNg HOlidAy COuRse THAT explORes A RANge OF THeATRe sKills BAsed AROuNd OuR MusiCAl THeATRe THeMe BeAuTy ANd THe BeAsT Monday 3rd April – Friday 7th April 9.30am - 12.30pm P1-P3 9.30am - 4.30pm P4+ Edinburgh Academy Junior School TEL: 0131 466 8278

INFO@THEACTINGSCENE.CO.UK

WWW.THEACTINGSCENE.CO.UK

Tuesday 4th, Wednesday 5th and Thursday 6th April 10.30-12pm, £12.50 per class. Includes juice and mid-morning snack.

See blog/fb for details. www.doodlesceramics.wordpress.com 29 Marchmont Crescent, Edinburgh, EH9

The acTing scene easTer holiDay course To coincide with the blockbuster Disney film Beauty & The Beast this Easter see's a brand new Musical Theatre Course based on this classic tale.

Monday 03 April – Friday 07th April 9.30am-12.30pm P1-P3 9.30am-4.30pm P4+ Edinburgh Academy Junior School So why not make the holidays fun with a performance experience from The Acting Scene. Banish the familiar cry of “I’m bored” with our unique courses. A fun and exciting holiday course that explores a range of theatre skills based around our Musical Theatre theme Beauty and The Beast. Whether you’re child is an experienced performer or new to drama, we aim to facilitate the creative ideas of every child irrespective of ability.

No previous drama experience required. Head to our book and pay page on our website to secure your place. www.theactingscene.co.uk.

penTlanDs acTiviTy caMps Pentlands Activity Camps (PAC) offers outdoor adventure and healthy, fun-filled multi-activity day camps for children during school holidays.

From 3rd – 14th April, PAC is back at Netherurd House, Blyth Bridge, in the beautiful Peeblesshire countryside, only 30 minutes south of the Edinburgh.

Netherurd is perfect for PAC – its natural woodlands, stream and wide- open fields create a wonderful playground where children can explore and enjoy ‘good oldfashioned fun’ – den-building, pond-dipping, tree-climbing, hide and seek...and much, much more!

This April you can also sign up for our popular PAC Outdoors Arts and Crafts camp!

PAC welcomes all school-age children. Our website gives you more information and a flavour of who we are and what we do: www.pentlandsactivitycamps.co.uk Or call Lindsay on 07718 933725 or email: info@pentlandsactivitycamps.co.uk

sascs

Skiing rding Snowboa Tubing ard camps easter ski and snowbo -13th April

ril and 10th Running 3rd – 7th Ap

Call: 0131 445 4433 http://ski.midlothian.gov.uk • Email:ski.midlothian.gov.uk Midlothian Snowsports Centre, Hillend, Biggar Road, Edinburgh EH10 7DU

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SASCS will be operating Holiday Care and Sports Camp during the Easter Holidays.

WEEK 1 - Monday 3rd to Friday 7th April 2017; WEEK 2 – Tuesday 11th to Thursday 13th April 2017, in Sciennes Primary School, 10 Sciennes Road, Edinburgh, EH9 1LG. N.B SASCS Closed – Monday 10th, Friday 14th and Monday 17th April 2017.

Holiday Care – for children aged 4.5-12+years (but primarily aimed at children aged 4.5-7years) Holiday Care offers a range of activities including; crafts, science, baking, sports and outdoor games.

Full Day - £20.00; Half Day - £12.00. Trip - £25.00.

Sports Camp – for children in Primary 5 and up.

Sports camp will offer the children the opportunity to experience a range of different sports including basketball, football, tennis, snag golf, hockey, etc as well as taking part in outings to local sports venues e.g. Commonwealth Pool / Meadows Tennis Courts.

Full Day - £25.00; Trip - £28.00 Both schemes are run by experienced and qualified staff. Both age groups will also attend a full day trip each week, as well as country park trips and other local outings.

All Parents / Carers please note that online booking ONLY, via our website (www.sascs.org.uk) is currently available and will close at midnight on Monday 27th March 2017.

SASCS is the trading name of Sciennes School After School Care Scheme, Registered Scottish Charity Number: SCO23891

Out&About While every care has been taken to compile the OUT AND ABOUT section please remember that this magazine is printed weeks ahead of some of the events. PLEASE call and check events with the venue to avoid any disappointment before setting out. If you have any events you would like listed free in this section please email them to editor@familiesedinburgh.co.uk

MARCH Every Friday (to March 31) Feely Friday 13:30-16:30. Check information screens for each sessions’ theme and location.

Free (drop in). Discover strange and wonderful objects from our handling collections every Friday during term time. ©Ruth Armstrong Photography

Sunday 5 March Art Maker Scottish National Gallery 2-4pm. Free, drop-in. Ages 2 - 4.

Join the Art Maker Club and make your own masterpieces with artists Tessa Asquith-Lamb and Louise Fraser.

Supported by the Friends of the National Galleries of Scotland.

Every Thursday (to 30 March) Magic Carpet Minis 10:30–10:50, 11:30–11:50 Free (pre-book 10:30 session from day before or sign up for 11:30 session on the day in the Entrance Hall). Meet at the green fountain, Grand Gallery, Level 1. Suitable for ages 0-2 (plus accompanying adult).

Take a trip on the Magic Carpet to explore the fantastic things in the National Museum of Scotland. Magic Carpet Mini sessions are especially for really young children and their carers. Come along for songs, stories, rhymes and objects in the unique museum setting.

Saturday 11 March Wee Treasures Scottish National Portrait Gallery 10.30am & 11.30am. Free, drop-in. Ages 2 - 4.

Join us for storytelling for early years children and their families inspired by a different portrait each month, and delve into our magic treasure chest to find out what the story will be. With fun rhymes and songs, puppet characters and lots of opportunities to join in, this is sure to become a firm favourite with little ones! Places limited, sign up on the day. ©Andy McGregor

Sunday 5 March Art Explorers 13:00 – 16:00 (drop in). age 3+. Real Life Science Studio, John Hope Gateway | £3 on the door Be inspired to make your own work of art as we explore the beauty of the Garden using a wide range of colourful and tactile materials. With Greengage Arts Monday 6 March BYOB - Bring Your Own Baby Bridget Riley Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art - MOD TWO 10am -12noon. Free, drop-in. Ages 0 - 1 Join us at Modern One for a fun, relaxed morning planned especially with parents and carers of young children in mind. Enjoy special offers and family-friendly facilities in the café and sign up for one of our short buggy/baby-friendly art tours for adults. Gurgling, laughing, crying or screaming welcome as well as lots of informal chat. We’ll even bring some spare nappies! Places for tours limited, sign-up on the day. Enter through Modern One main entrance.

Every Wednesday (to 29 March) Magic Carpet 10:30–10:55, 11:30–11:55 Meet at the Green Fountain in the Grand Gallery on Level 1.

Free (sign up on the day at the Information Desk in the Entrance Hall) Suitable for ages 2-4 (plus accompanying adult) Take a trip on the Magic Carpet to explore the fantastic things in the National Museum of Scotland. The events introduce little ones to objects in the Museum through 25 minutes of stories, songs and activities. Limited places, on a first come, first served basis.

Sunday 12 March Portrait Detectives!

Scottish National Portrait Gallery 2-4pm. Free, drop-in. Ages 4 - 12 Collect your kit, follow clues and solve a mystery from history! Supported by the Friends of the National Galleries of Scotland. ©Alicia Bruce

Sunday 12 March Families: Make it at the Museum 10:30-12:00. Learning Centre, Level 4. £10 (1 child ticket includes an adult helper ticket, suitable for children age 8+ and their accompanying adult, booking required, available online from 1 Feb) Older children and their families can join this practical workshop to try out jewellery making techniques and make a piece to take home, inspired by our collections.

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Out&About

Further details on events listed can be found at www.familiesonl

Saturday 18 March Creative Writing Workshop for Children The Scottish Storytelling Centre, High Street 10.30am (2hrs). £16. 8-15yrs If you enjoy writing stories, or would like to enjoy it more, come along to an afternoon workshop held in the Storytelling Centre with prize-winning author Janis Mackay (Magnus Fin and the Ocean Quest, The Accidental Time Traveller). The group will start by finding story ideas and then - start writing a novel! It will be a fun session and who knows where it might lead. ©Andy McGregor ©Catriona France

Tuesday 14 March Tiny Tales: Spring Time Gingerbread Tales! The Scottish Storytelling Centre, High Street 10am & 11.30am (40mins). £5 per child. 2-5yrs.

Jane Mather leads a delicious morning of stories in the Storytelling Bothy, full of fun and imagination for little ones and their adults. Please book in advance.

Saturday 25th March Pregnancy, Birth and Baby Open Day KnotStressed Therapies 40-42 Montrose Terrace, Edinburgh EH7 5DL Raise money for a good cause and treat yourself this Mother’s Day weekend to some pampering time out with or without your little ones. All proceeds raised on the day will go to the Special Care Babies Unit at Simpson's Edinburgh Royal Infirmary.

Saturday 25 March Open Day STEAM Exhibition at Edinburgh Montessori Arts School Visit the school; meet the teachers; see the children showcase their sciences, maths and arts work; meet school families and tour the campus. 10am - 1pm emaschool.co.uk Sunday 26 March

Happy Mother’s Day

Sunday 19 March Bags of Art Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art - MOD ONE 2-4pm. Free, drop-in. Ages 4 - 12 Cool and creative fun with artists Tessa Asquith Lamb and Louise Fraser. Supported by the Friends of the National Galleries of Scotland.

Sunday 26 March Mother’s Day at Doodles 29 Marchmont Crescent, Edinburgh, EH9 1HQ. Tel: 0131 229 1399 There are lots of amazing gift ideas to be painted in advance, or complimentary sweet treats & glass of fizz for mum on the day.

Saturday 18 March Scottish Folktales for Children The Scottish Storytelling Centre, High Street 1.30pm & 2.30pm (35mins + art activities).

Free (ticketed). For ages 7+ Join storyteller Judy Paterson and illustrator Sally Daly for an afternoon of stories and art activities to celebrate the launch of their new book, Scottish Folktales for Children (The History Press).

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Friday 31st March – Sunday 16th April – Easter Egg Design Competition winner drawn Easter Monday, 17 April. Tumbles Soft Play at Portobello Sunday 19 March The Great British Dog Walk Holyrood Park. 10am. Sign up online (£10 Adults, under 16’s free) Join Hearing Dogs for Deaf People at one of the 20 Great British Dog Walks across the UK.

Friday, 31 March Teddy Bears Picnic £8.50 per child.

Bring your own teddy and go on a Bear Hunt through the frame whilst listening to the magical story. Child will then enjoy some juice and biscuits before taking part in a sing songs and colouring in some pictures. 2.30 - 4.30pm Scrambles Soft Play – EICA:Ratho

Out&About

line.co.uk including any contact or further booking information.

APRIL

Saturday 1 - Sunday 16 April Science shows and activities at Summerhall Summerhall, Summerhall Pl, Edinburgh EH9 1PL

Saturday 1 - Monday 17 April Easter at The Scottish Seabird Centre This Easter, the Scottish Seabird Centre, North Berwick is taking inspiration from all things marine with a brand new interactive science show and a family-friendly puppet performance. It’s going to be dolphin-tastic and crabalicious! ©Sean Bell

©Allan MacDonald

©Chris Scott

Saturday 1–Saturday 16 April (not Sundays) Science Festival 2017 City Art Centre, 2 Market St, Edinburgh, EH1 1DE 9.30am-4.30pm Get a Day Pass to explore this sensational science playground, packed full of interactive workshops and handson activities for children aged 5-12.

Adult £8/Child aged 7+ £9.50/Child aged 3-6 £7/Child under 3 FREE/Disabled or registered unemployed £5 More information and online booking at www.sciencefestival.co.uk Box office: 0844 557 2686

10am-5pm Find sensational science shows and hands-on science activities for all ages at the Science Festival’s hub venue. Dates and prices vary Visit www.sciencefestival.co.uk for full programme information and online booking Box office: 0844 557 2686

From Saturday 1 - 16th April Extreme Events at Dynamic Earth Embark upon the interactive adventures of a lifetime at Dynamic Earth this Easter. Experience the primeval forces of nature and discover how they shaped our planet, journey through space and time and travel the world in four dimensions. Enjoy special screenings, meet the expert events and hands-on activities with your admission.

See the full programme at www.dynamicearth.co.uk ©Chris Scott

Saturday 1–Sunday 16 April Science Festival 2017 National Museum of Scotland Chambers St, Edinburgh, EH1 1JF 10am - 5pm. Discover activities for the whole family around the museum. Explore the Play On exhibition in the Grand Gallery and look out for Pop-up Science in Hawthornden Court and hands-on workshops in the Learning Centre.

Dates and prices vary.

Visit www.sciencefestival.co.uk for full programme information and online booking Box office: 0844 557 2686

Saturday 1 - Monday 17 April Bonkers Chocolate Easter Trail 10:00 – 16.00 daily (last entry to Glasshouses 17.00) For ages 3+. Pick up a trail from the John Hope Gateway reception desk - £2 per trail.

Children always go free into the Glasshouses The Botanics Bunny has invented a scrumptious chocolate bar with a very secret and very bonkers recipe. Can you help him find the missing ingredients? Complete the trail and claim your yummy chocolate reward, from Mackie’s of Scotland, and a special Golden Ticket offering £2 discount for one adult into the Glasshouses to see the most important ingredient – the chocolate tree.

Supported by Mackie’s of Scotland

April 1 - 17th Easter Eggcitement Almond Valley Heritage Centre, Livingston Throughout the Easter school break, the farm is alive with the cheeps and bleats of baby animals, who will be introduced to you at handling and encounter sessions. Grab your clue sheet, sharpen your pencil, and tear around the farm collecting clues on the springtime trail. Keep a look out for hidden eggs that might win you a prize. In the craft area you can make bonnets, masks and other springtime decorations. There will be still further special attractions over the four days of Easter (14th to 17th April), including our famous plastic duck race along the mill lade.

Sunday 2 April Art Explorers 13:00 – 16:00 (drop in).

Age 3+. Real Life Science Studio John Hope Gateway. £3 on the door Be inspired to make your own work of art as we explore the beauty of the Garden using a wide range of colourful and tactile materials. With Greengage Arts

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Out&About

Further details on events listed can be found at www.familiesonl Sunday 9 April Portrait Detectives!

Scottish National Portrait Gallery 2-4pm. Free, drop-in. Ages 4 - 12.

Collect your kit, follow clues and solve a mystery from history! Supported by the Friends of the National Galleries of Scotland.

Sunday 2 April Art Maker Scottish National Gallery 2-4pm. Free, drop-in. Ages 4 - 12 Join the Art Maker Club and make your own masterpieces with artists Tessa Asquith-Lamb and Louise Fraser.

Supported by the Friends of the National Galleries of Scotland.

Monday 10 – Friday 14 April Crafting Sessions Included in entry cost Tumbles Soft Play at Portobello Tuesday 11 April Tiny Tales 10am & 11.30am. £5 per child The Scottish Storytelling Centre’s monthly opportunity for tots aged 2-5 to get interactive with stories and songs.

Please book in advance.

©Andy McGregor

Monday April 3 BYOB - Bring Your Own Baby - NOW: Place (Ages 0-1) 10am-12noon, Free, Modern One. Join us at Modern One for a fun, relaxed morning planned especially with parents and carers of young children in mind. Enjoy special offers and family-friendly facilities in the café and sign up for one of our short buggy/baby-friendly art tours for adults. Gurgling, laughing, crying or screaming welcome as well as lots of informal chat. Places for tours limited, sign-up on the day. Enter through Modern Monday 3 – Friday 7 April Crafting sessions included in entry cost.

Tumbles Soft Play at Portobello

Tuesday 4 - Saturday 8 April Uncanny Valley The Studio @ The Festival Theatre 12pm and 2.30pm. Witness the trouble caused when lonely teenager Ada creates her own AI robot pal. Watch OKAY grow and learn and see if you can really tell the difference between a robot and a human being in Borderline Theatre’s award-winning Uncanny Valley. Winner of Best Production for Children and Young People at the 2015-16 Critics’ Awards for Theatre in Scotland. 'Perfectly pitched as an educational piece aimed at young people... which offers complex, challenging-for-all-ages moral questions.’ The List. £10/£8

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Thursday 6 – Sat 8 April The Curious Scrapbook of Josephine Bean The Scottish Storytelling Centre, High Street, Edinburgh, 2pm (& 11am Sat Mat). £10 (£8) £32 (Group of 4). For ages 6+ Who was Josephine Bean? Find out in this intriguing show from the much respected Shona Reppe Puppets about a mysterious scrapbook which leads to a strange paper room.

Slowly, page-by-page, the scrapbook becomes the window into a secret world and a curious life unfolds before us.

©Kat Gollock

Friday, 7 April Chocolate Nest Making 11.00 – 13.00 (included in entry) Clambers Soft Play at the Commonwealth Pool Saturday 8 April Wee Treasures Scottish National Portrait Gallery 10.30am & 11.30am. Ages 2 - 4 Join us for storytelling for early years children and their families inspired by a different portrait each month, and delve into our magic treasure chest to find out what the story will be. With fun rhymes and songs, puppet characters and lots of opportunities to join in, this is sure to become a firm favourite with little ones! Places limited, sign up on the day.

Saturday 8 April Family bushcraft RSPB Loch Leven, 10am -12.30pm Can your family survive in the woods?! Join us to learn simple outdoor skills; den building, fire lighting, camouflage and whittling. Booking essential; RSPB member family £16, non member family £20; RSPB member adult £8, child £4; non member adult £12, child £6 Saturday 8 & Sunday 9 April Constable's Clouds Scottish National Gallery, 2-4pm. Free. Ages 4 - 12.

Join the Scottish National Gallery and Eureka Edinburgh for a special hands-on science/art workshop inspired by some of the wild weather and stunning skyscapes on show in our collection. Build clouds like Constable, create your own rainbows, and understand the science behind sunlight and more. This event is part of the Edinburgh International Science Festival. Free but ticketed.

To book a place please call 0131 624 6560

Tuesday 11 - Saturday 15 April Lost at Sea The Studio @ The Festival Theatre 12pm and 2.30pm.

Join award-winning theatre company Catherine Wheels to follow the intriguing journey of a boy and a girl, fascinated by the story of 28,800 bath toys that were accidentally flung into the unrelenting currents of the Pacific Ocean.

Shortlisted in the Best Production for Children and Young People category at the 2015-16 Critics’ Awards for Theatre in Scotland. £10/£8 More information and online booking at www.sciencefestival.co.uk Box office: 0844 557 2686

Out&About

line.co.uk including any contact or further booking information.

Wednesday 12 April Nature Tots: Mud and Mess RSPB Scotland Loch Leven, 10am -12pm.

Come along with your budding wildlife adventurers for a journey through the seasons. This popular monthly event, for families with children aged 5 and under, starts with a story and is packed with creative ideas and surprises; getting you outside and playing in nature. Please dress for the weather – pack your wellies!

Booking essential; RSPB members £3, non members £6 (per family) Thursday 13 April Easter Party 16.00 – 18.00.

Face painting, free Easter eggs, tattoos, Easter bonnet competitions, Easter egg hunt, games and soft play £11.50 (non-members), £9.00 (members) Clambers Soft Play at the Commonwealth Pool Friday, 14 April Easter Egg Hunt 13.00 – 15.00 (included in entry).

Clambers Soft Play at the Commonwealth Pool

Saturday 15 & Sunday 16 April Constable's Clouds Scottish National Gallery 2-4pm. Free. Ages 4 - 12.

Join the Scottish National Gallery and Eureka Edinburgh for a special hands-on science/art workshop inspired by some of the wild weather and stunning skyscapes on show in our collection. Build clouds like Constable, create your own rainbows, and understand the science behind sunlight and more. This event is part of the Edinburgh International Science Festival. Free but ticketed. To book a place please call 0131 624 6560

Sunday April 16 Easter Eggstravaganza Grounds open 11.00am, with activities from midday The Biggest egg hunt in the Borders and lots more fun activities all day.

A cracking good Easter Sunday for all the family!

• Easter Egg Hunts in the Traquair Maze for Under 10s • Under 5s Egg Scramble in the Old Walled Garden • Easter Bonnet Making • Egg Decorating • Scavenger Hunt with Big Egg Prizes!

• Spot the Egg Competition in the House • Storytelling • Face Painting • Musical Instrument Making • Michael Angelo This year there are three egg hunts planned for the under 10’s.

At 1.30pm the first hunt will be for 5-6year olds in the Maze. Then at 3.30pm there will be an under 5’s egg scramble in the Old Walled Garden and at 4.00pm a hunt for 7-9 year olds will be held in the Maze.

Entry to Traquair House is additional.

Sunday 16 April Bags of Art Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art - MOD ONE 2-4pm. Free, drop-in. Ages 4 -12

Friday 14 April Joan Eardley's Painting Studio Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art - MOD TWO 2pm - 4pm. Free. Ages 2 - 12 Come along and get messy with illustrator Kasia Matyjaszek this Easter. Using mixed media and experimental painting, you can create large-scale artworks inspired by Joan Eardley’s paintings in our exhibition Joan Eardley: A Sense of Place. Includes free entry to the exhibition for participating families.

Free but ticketed. To book a place please call 0131 624 6560 14 - 17 April Easter Lapwing Trail RSPB Scotland Loch Leven Follow the Easter themed trail around the beautiful woodlands to find some wildlife, solve the puzzle and win a tasty treat. Just drop in during opening hours. £2 per entry

Easter Sunday, 16 April Hourly Easter Egg Draw Tumbles Soft Play at Portobello Sunday 16 April Family Event Day; Faberge Egg Hunt 11:00 – 15:00.

Visit us on Easter Sunday and take part in our Faberge Egg Hunt. Join us in the Family Room to make and decorate your own basket and then follow a treasure trail to find eggs hidden around the Palace. In the Great Gallery enjoy traditional Scottish music and dancing throughout the day in our family ceilidh run by local performers CeilidhKids. Pick up a family activity trail and explore the Palace, Abbey and Gardens. A fun day out for all the family! Opening times 09:30 – 18:00 (last entry 16:30).

COME BACK FOR FREE! Once you have bought a ticket from us, you can use it to come back for FREE for a year!

Linlithgow Corstorphine Edinburgh South Musselburgh Bonnyrigg Livingston Newday Broxburn satuasrs in Leith Cl rgh u edinb

Tel: 0131 667 0939 web www.helenogrady.co.uk email midscot@helenogrady.co.uk Facebook https://www.facebook.com/HelenOGradyMidScotland

Monday, 17 April Cupcake Decorating 11.00 – 13.00 (included in entry) Clambers Soft Play at the Commonwealth Pool Saturday 29 April Family Beltane on Calton Hill 1.30pm (3hrs). Free (non ticketed). For ages 5+ The annual Family Beltane is a bright and beautiful Beltane celebration. Children (5+, accompanied by their adults) can explore the changing seasons through storytelling, facepainting and arts & crafts. Come and celebrate the birth of summer! Audiences are welcome to drop in at any point, or stay for the full duration. Family Beltane is free, however there will be a donation box for contributions towards the running costs of the event. Part of TradFest Edinburgh.

Children’s Music Classes from birth to teens • New baby and toddler classes • Creative music classes (Preschool to P2) • Individual and group instrumental classes (P3 to teens) • New musicianship classes (P3+) • ABRSM Music Medal Syllabus Enrol at www.portobellomusicschool or tel: 0131 623 2513

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Families Edinburgh is part of Families Magazines Ltd a franchise company. All franchised magazines in the group are independently owned and operated under licence. Families ÂŽ is a registered trademark of Families Magazines Ltd, Remenham House, Regatta Place, Marlow Road, Bourne End, Bucks, SL8 5TD. The contents of Families Edinburgh are fully protected by copyright and none of the editorial or photographic matter may be reproduced in any form without prior consent of the publisher. 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 consequence.