Families Edinburgh March-April 2018

IN THIS ISSUE Easter Fun What's On

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

For more info contact: 07544 221045 Email: b.robertson@soccerstarts.co.uk

www.soccerstartsfootballacademy.co.uk Issue 107 March / April 2018

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©Ivon Bartholomew Edinburgh International Science Festival www.sciencefestival.co.uk

for ses 1st 4 £1 sion 0o s nly

Clubs & Classes

2 Families Edinburgh

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Welcome to the March/April issue packed full of Easter fun T

0131 622 0405

E

editor@familiesedinburgh.com @FamiliesEdinburghMagazine @Familiesedinbur

news and

views

Puppet Animation Festival

Puppet Animation Festival is the UK’s largest and longest established annual performing arts event for children, celebrating its 35th anniversary in 2018.

Puppet Animation Festival programmes a diverse programme of puppet theatre, puppetry making workshops and animated films for children between the ages of 0-12. The Festival brings quality theatre and animated films to audiences across Scotland.

The Festival isn’t just for kids though. We want parents and guardians to get involved and have fun too, allowing the whole family to connect with one another and their local community through creativity. The festival will run from 24 March – 14 April nationwide.

To find a show in your area, please visit www.puppetanimation.org Spring is often seen as a joyful season, winter is behind us, flowers start to bloom and the air feels fresh and warm. The sounds of spring can bring a smile to people’s faces: children playing in the park or bird’s chirping in the trees. But for many older people across Scotland the joys of spring can pass them by. Loneliness and isolation means many older people in communities across Scotland spend the spring indoors, distant from the delight this season can bring. 100,000 older people say they feel lonely most of the time and 1 in 9 older people say they haven’t spoken to friends, family or neighbours in a month. At Age Scotland, we’re driven by a passion and a purpose for change, to see older people leading fulfilled and engaged lives and connected to their communities. Our Age Scotland Helpline and Community Connecting Programme are just two of our initiatives used to achieve this.

With an ageing population our work has never been more important!

To find out more about our work or how you can support older people across Scotland visit www.agescotland.org.uk. Take on a challenge event to support the charity and be an inspiration this spring, see page 2 for more information.

Youth Talent Showcase The Youth Talent Showcase will be held on Saturday 14th of April at Newtongrange Mining Museum and will see amazing acts such as Little Voices Big Stars, Sam Carlin, LDD Dance and many more.

You can buy tickets online at www.youthtalentshowcase.co.uk.

(Use code NEWSRELEASE18 for 20% off.)

The Youth Radio Network is a digital place where young people can easily access and develop their skills and interests. It acts as a sounding board for youth news and issues and promotes all youth organisations. The Youth Radio Network's focus is on young people, and topical issues such as Bullying, Racism, LGBT and much more.

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

ril & 9th – Running 2nd – 6th Ap

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

SPECIALIST CHILDREN’S EYE CARE CLINICS: DYSLEXIA MYOPIA VISUAL STRESS CONTROL EYE EXAMINATIONS

Jabberwocky Softplay Jabberwocky Softplay in Haddington’s Lodge Street is asking its young customers to help create a unique artwork - a huge coloured collage of a lion to celebrate Haddington 700!

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news and

views Forest Kindergarten at ESMS The ESMS Nursery Forest Kindergarten programme continues to grow from strength to strength as a result of the significant staff training programme which has been put into place in school.

Under the leadership of our resident Forest Kindergarten and Forest School Leader and Trainer we are delighted to have eight Nursery staff now trained to deliver Forest Kindergarten.

Our youngest children now have the opportunity to go into the woods for additional sessions.

BREAKING NEWS! ANATOMINIS IS BACK

A Healthy Child Is a Happy One!

For kids aged 0-5 and the grown-ups who feed them!

We’re a cabaret event in Edinburgh’s Summerhall, and we’re bringing back our special kids edition on Sunday 18 March 2018 at 11am.

Featuring the best in new performance, developed with the early years in mind and to still be wonderful for every age, we have strange sounds, delightful dances, preposterous performances and remarkably relaxing too. Funded by Creative Scotland and supported by Imaginate, Anatomy brings a bizarre and beautiful sparkle to your Sunday morning. £5 per adult, kids come free.

Full line-up and tickets at www.anatomyarts.co.uk

Does your child have a constant cough/cold or suffer from asthma, eczema or allergies including hay fever?

Why not give Edinburgh’s only Salt Cave a try this year. It’s simple, effective and best of all drug free! Salt kills bacteria, it’s anti-inflammatory and helps break up mucus. It also removes airborne particles and toxins to improve the ability to cope with allergic reactions.

Kids can have fun without even realising they are having any treatment! Whilst playing, they inhale dry, salt-enriched air deep into their lungs, clearing the airways and making breathing easier after just a few sessions. It can have a lasting effect on their health, boosting their immune system to prevent the frequent recurrence of their symptoms. Salt Therapy is definitely becoming a preferred method to treat many conditions so come along and try your first session for FREE. The Salt Cave, Meadowbank, Edinburgh is open Tuesday-Saturday.

0131 510 1091 www.saltcave.co.uk

Blackhall Playgroup is a small friendly playgroup offering early learning and childcare in a play based setting for children from their second birthday.

We meet Monday to Friday from 9.00am to 11.30am during term time.

Our qualified staff support children’s curiosity, social skills, wellbeing and learning through play in a caring and fun environment. Playgroup is a great stepping stone between home and nursery.

Blackhall Playgroup, St Columba’s Church, Columba Road, Edinburgh, EH4 3QU 07999 514809 blackhallplaygroup@hotmail.co.uk

St George’s Junior School and Nursery Activity Morning Saturday 17 March

St George’s is running an Activity Open Morning for families who are interested in finding out about St George’s Junior School and Nursery (from 2 – 9 years) on Saturday 17 March from 9.30am – 11.30am.

Visiting girls are invited to take part in some action-packed activities including hands-on science, outdoor learning in our Fantastical Forest, sport and art activities.

For parents, this is an informal opportunity to meet and talk to staff. As part of our ‘welcome talk,’ you will hear about class sizes, our girls-only ethos and the broad and enriching curriculum we provide. Beyond the classroom, you will hear about the range of activities and new experiences we offer, including our extensive Outdoor Learning programme, designed to inspire and challenge your daughter.

We are currently extending our transport service, and we are pleased to announce school transport from East Lothian. We are also investigating a service from West Lothian for the autumn term.

To book your attendance and to find out more go to our website or contact Mrs Karen Batty in Admissions T: 0131 311 8008, E: admissions@stge.org.uk

Book Now F Summ or e P l ace r s

4 Families Edinburgh

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Learning for life

Abbeyford Leisure

Just an hour from Edinburgh, nestled in the heart of the bustling country town of Crieff, Morrison’s Academy has long been making the most of its enviable location to enhance the education of every one of its pupils.

The school’s 157 year tradition of academic success continues today with a contemporary Scottish curriculum taught through child-centred learning that builds emotional intelligence, creativity and life skills. It’s clearly succeeding, with pupils achieving a 96% pass rate at Higher level in 2017.

Generations of Morrisonians have benefitted from this rich blend of academic, artistic and sporting experiences, going on to make their mark on the world as Olympians, scientists, actors, explorers, politicians and professionals. Today, pupils from Nursery through to Advanced Higher enjoy specialist teachers in sports, languages, and creative and performing arts delivering a high standard of teaching in a growing range of subject choices.

The Morrison’s family extends beyond the current roll: former pupils and staff around the world regularly contribute to events, careers networking, and overseas trips.

The next Nursery and Primary Open Morning is on Friday 04 May 2018. Take a tour, meet pupils and staff, and discover more about Morrison’s Academy’s unique approach to learning.

For further information please contact Catriona Elliott, Admissions Registrar - admissions@morrisonsacademy.org

The coolest birthday party of 2018 is here Hoverboard Parties.

Taking walking to the next level! Our hoverboard parties are the first in Scotland offering your child and their friends all the fun and experience of hoverboarding, but in a safe, controlled environment.

Our parties are perfect for those who have been on hoverboards for hours or none at all. Our parties start with a safety talk, basic tuition, free riding and then some team games! Get in touch today to learn more! www.activitydelivered.com

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Looking for a stunning location for a family holiday not a million miles from home?

Abbeyford Leisure offers award-winning coastal holiday parks and we’re lucky enough to have 3 of them in Fife.

Elie Nestled behind a wide expanse of dunes and a sweeping sandy beach, multi-awardwinning Elie Holiday Park at Shell Bay is a true hidden gem. Awarded Scotland’s Best Family Holiday Park runner-up, families have been enjoying holidays here for generations and is where childhood memories are made.

Everyone’s talking about their popular Castaway holiday homes which offer a choice of stylish two or three bedroom models each with a covered veranda. Choose between Castaway (beach) holiday homes set behind the sand dunes and a stone's throw from Shell Bay, or go for Castaway (forest) holiday homes located on the edge of Elie forest with meadow views. All are within easy reach of the park’s free Robinson Crusoe Adventure Park and The Mirador Café serving some of the best barista coffee on the Fife Coastal Path. Look out for free evening entertainment and free football coaching sessions during the summer school holidays too.

St Monans Further along the coast, St Monans Holiday Park offers a quieter alternative. It’s a favoured spot for walkers and birdwatchers where you can stay in a holiday home on the Fife Coastal Path and wake up to magical views across the Forth towards the Isle of May and beyond.

St Andrews St Andrews Holiday Park is all about the location and families come here for the breathtaking sea views and the park’s unrivalled proximity to the historic town, beach and world renowned golf courses. Back on-park is The Braes, an impressive new bar and restaurant offering a delicious fresh menu with a focus on speciality burgers. Guests can watch big screen sports, find a quiet spot in the snug or relax with a drink on the sun terrace taking in the sea views.

Accommodation includes lodges with hot tubs and stylish holiday homes (many with the luxury of decking and some with breathtaking sea views). There are dog-friendly holiday homes too.

4 nights starts from as little as £195 for the entire family and cots and high chairs are available to hire for free. Book online at abbeyford.com and you can even choose your holiday home location at no extra cost.

Call us on 0131 622 0405

Families Edinburgh 5

clubs&classes soccersTarTs

sTagecoach TheaTre arTs school Offers quality part-time training in the performing arts for children aged 4-18yrs, covering Dance, Drama and Singing.

As well as their packed existing timetable they have just launched a Thursday Evening School at Edinburgh Academy (4.30-6pm for 5-6yrs olds and 5-8pm for 6-16 year olds).

Holiday Workshops are also now live and taking bookings for Summer 2018.

All details on their website. www.stagecoach.co.uk/edinburgh

DynaM-nic Dance

TuMble ToTs

Edinburgh dance school Dynam-nic Dance has announced details of its largest show, which will see over 550 of the city’s dancers take to the stage at the EICC in March.

The youngest performers (aged from just 3 years) will feature in ‘Sugar and Spice’ - a real feel-good production, full of colour and fun. DND also offers dance classes for adults, some of whom will be part of this show, showing off their ballet, tap and jazz skills alongside the littlest ones.

Meanwhile, the school’s older dancers and Musical Theatre students will present their show ‘Newsflash’ - a high-energy show, this features an irresistible soundtrack with everything from Surfin’ USA to Purple Rain and Somewhere in the Crowd from LaLa Land.

Both Dynami-Nic Dance shows promise to leave you with your toes tapping, and a smile on your face. Tickets are on sale now at dndance.co.uk - previous shows have sold out fast, so don't leave it too late!

“If you told me 12 months ago I would be buying Tumble Tots, I would have laughed! I started working for them in April 2017 and I just loved it – it is such a fun & rewarding job, I knew straight away I wanted to do it full time” says Nicola.

“I brought my own children along to Tumble Tots when they were little and have seen first hand the benefits – now 8 & 9 years old, they still talk about how fun it was.

My 3 years old now enjoys coming along to mummy’s classes.

I am very proud to be part of Tumble Tots – the company its self has been going 38 years and leads the way in physical play for pre-school children. Our classes are structured according to age and stage of children’s development, from 6 months to 7 years.

My team of staff are great and we run 17 classes a week in Morningside, Fairmilehead, Marchmont and Joppa. Why not come along and try a class!” www.tumbletots.com

Football Skills Coaching First 4 weeks for £10 only!

Classes for walking to 3 years, 3 to 5 years and Primary School age.

Contact b.robertson@soccerstarts.co.uk for information or to join classes within the existing packed timetable at: Craigmount High School, Musselburgh Sports Centre, Napier University and Westwoods Health Club.

See the full existing timetable at www.soccerstartsfootballacademy.co.uk Soccerstarts Football Academy also provides one to one football coaching and birthday parties for primary age children.

Dance For all Dance For All is now taking bookings for their Summer 2018 term dance classes and Summer School. Full-time Dance College Auditions are on 26.03.18 (full details online).

“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 & Modern, SDS Flamenco, Jazz and Contemporary. Principal, Tracy Hawkes, leads an inspirational faculty of staff in delivering professional dance training and over 70 weekly child, teen & adult classes (beginners advanced).

“It’s never boring and always fun, making life-long friends.” ~ Aimee, 15-year-old pupil.

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

baby sensory

Monkey DraMa

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.

Baby Sensory is 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.

Classes in Edinburgh East are run by Helen Laidlaw, in Edinburgh City

by Adele Cowan and in Edinburgh Central by Hayley Robertson. For your nearest class visit www.babysensory.com and enter your postcode.

Monkey Drama’s very own adventure studio and party venue, The Monkey Hoose, has been going for 6 months now and we are having an amazing time! Our own venue means we have plenty options for you to join us in our public classes which we run 4 days a week and even more fabulous party options! We are also visiting many more nurseries every week, and we are loving having more Special Educational Needs schools on board. Every week more imaginations grow and come alive.

If you would like to join us, please get in touch to go on the waiting list or if we have a space you can join us straight away. A two week trial costs £13. Also, if you think you would like to work with Monkey Drama, we would love to hear from you. Especially if you would like to be a weekend Party Leader!

Contact alana@monkeydrama.co.uk www.monkeydrama.co.uk 07736298013

Self Defence confiDence & fun!!

Saturday 9.00 - 9.45 Ainslie Park Leisure Centre 92 Pilton Dr EH5 2HF age 9-13

KRAV MAGA JUNIOR kmscotland@hotmail.com 07761 821988

Language Classes for Kids German French Italian Spanish New classes starting now!

For children aged 5 - 12 www.universeoflanguage.co.uk Call us on 07943 640628 Or email us: mirjam@universeoflanguage.co.uk

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clubs&classes eDinburgh leisure Get your child active for life by starting them young. With classes city-wide, Edinburgh Leisure runs a wide range of coaching and courses for babies to pre-schoolers and beyond.

Release that inner Sugar Plum Fairy with their dance classes or help them develop motor skills, balance and agility with ‘Gym Nippers’. From 18 months to 3 years, you can even join in all the fun too.

Starting from the age of 3, in their football classes, children will develop confidence, spatial awareness and teamwork. For children who like to be airborne, their trampolining classes deliver balance, co-ordination, cardio fitness and self-confidence, whilst their swimming lessons will improve your child’s water confidence in and out of water, with an emphasis on fun and progression. And for budding Andy Murrays or Johanna Kontas, their Tots Tennis offers a fun introduction to the sport allowing parents or helpers to be on court with them.

Book your place and join in now at ‘the Biggest Club in Town.’ https://www.edinburghleisure.co.uk/activities/coaching

all sTars crickeT All Stars Cricket provides boys and girls from 5 to 8 years old with an opportunity to become a star.

The national curriculum of fun, cricket activities and games provides children with the basic movement skills to begin a lifelong love of physical activity.

The programme is a paid for product (RRP of £40) and includes the 8 week All Stars Cricket programme (1 x hour session per week for 8 weeks) and the pack; including a bat, ball, rucksack, cap and t shirt (personalised with their name) – all delivered to your door. The pack also includes an Activity book that allows children and parents to engage with the programme using several weekly challenges to earn ‘star awards’ like bowling, catching, running, and teamwork.

The programme is delivered by trained volunteers who deliver game based activities that teaches basic cricket skills like catching, throwing, hitting a moving ball and social skills like team work and communication. Held at accredited cricket clubs these courses are a perfect way for children to learn about cricket and make friends in safe, and most importantly, fun environment.

For more information or to register for a summer of #BigMoments please visit allstarscricket.co.uk

insTiTuT Français D'ecosse Did you miss out on enrolling in a French class during our winter term?

Plan ahead and sign up your child or teenager for one of our spring term classes. Enrolment open now – all ages and levels are bienvenus!

Spring Term: 17 April – 23 June Book now at 0131 285 6030 or info@ifecosse.org.uk

8 Families Edinburgh

helen o’graDy 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.

Production Term 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 as it allows students to be part of something exciting, fun and everyone can contribute in their own unique 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 & understanding of how we react • Develops creativity by exploring emotions and thoughts Do you want to act in a Play?

Call 0131 667 0939/ 07701 333476 email midscot@helenogrady.co.uk to book a FREE TRIAL (no experience necessary) www.helenogrady.co.uk www.facebook.com/HelenOGradyMidScotland

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Planning your will for peace of mind At Gibson Kerr we understand that family life can be hectic – no matter what life stage you’re at. But we also understand that your family always comes first and that you want to make sure they’re looked after should anything happen to you.

Many people aren’t aware of the consequences of dying without leaving a will. If you don’t take the time to put your choices in writing, the law decides who receives your assets and it can also mean delays, worry and additional expense for your family.

The practicalities

What do I include in my will?

To make a will in Scotland, you must be over the age of 12 years old and of sound mind. The will must be in writing and you’ll need to sign at the bottom of every page. You will also need a witness present, this can be anyone over the age of 16, of sound mind and not be a beneficiary named in the will.

Before making a will, you should think about what you plan to leave behind for those important to you. Make a list of the money or specific items of property that you wish to leave to each person. This will be a big help to your solicitor when it comes to making the will.

Your family’s legal rights Whatever the terms of your will, your surviving children and spouse are entitled to claim a share of your moveable estate - this includes things such as cash in the bank, investments, cars, and jewellery.

Many couples assume that they can leave everything to each other on the first death and then to their children on the second death, but legal rights mean that children can claim a share of your estate on the first death. If this is something that concerns you, you can speak to a solicitor who can advise you about legal rights.

Executors An executor is needed to be responsible for administering your estate and making sure the terms of the will are implemented.

Acting as an executor is a big responsibility and it can be useful to discuss this with the person you are thinking of appointing before finalising your will, to make sure that they will be happy to act. Once you’ve decided who you wish to appoint, you should give their full names and addresses to your solicitor.

Alternatively, a professional executor can be appointed, such as a solicitor or accountant.

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Anything that is left after any liabilities have been paid off and after the money and specific items have all been given to the beneficiaries is considered the “residue” of your estate. You should also take time to consider who receives the residue of your estate, which is generally the bulk of your estate.

This may sound like a lot to consider, yet, making a will with Gibson Kerr can be more straightforward than you might think. People can sometimes feel overwhelmed at the beginning of the process, but it becomes easier as you start to talk through your thoughts and we can guide you through any points you aren’t sure of. Talk to us about how you can protect your family’s future and your assets for a fixed fee.

We’re happy to discuss your individual needs.

At least amongst the daily family chaos you’ll know your legal affairs are in order. www.gibsonkerr.co.uk

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Easter Days Out

Easter Egg hunts and Easter Science! aniMal avengers!

DynaMic earTh This Easter break, join Dynamic Earth for a packed programme to celebrate the Edinburgh International Science Festival. Become a trainee environmental scientist and help Earthy on their trip to the Doctors in our Operation Earth family science show, or blast off into the depths of space with the Cosmos Planetarium.

Take a walk on the wild side in our outdoor family learning experiences in Holyrood Park, and have a cinematic experience like no other in our 360 degree cinema Double Dome Nights. You’ll also get the chance to meet real scientists working in amazing environments all over our planet, both near and far from home. From tropical forests, to Polar extremes and ocean depths, there’s something the whole family can enjoy this Easter at Dynamic Earth. Also, keep an eye out for special Earth Day celebrations taking place on the 22nd of April! Please check our website for daily event listings and details throughout the school holidays, as booking for some events is essential.

easTer eggciTeMenT aT alMonD valley heriTage cenTre Daily FroM 24Th March To 16Th april © Colin Hattersley

This Easter, the Scottish Seabird Centre is taking inspiration from a whole host of superheroes, with a brand new interactive science show and family-friendly puppet performances.

There are two puppet shows for little ones aged 2+ and an interactive science show is for older children, recommended for age 6+.

What’s for Snack? is back by popular demand, as Craig the Crab enjoys sing-a-long fun, exploring the issue of marine litter. Craig also features in a brandnew story. He is Lost! Can he find his way back home? Travelling across the beach and rockpools with help from friends old and new, finding out about the beach as he goes. But there is danger from above!

Older kids are invited to attend Avengers: Animal Division. Egghead returns showing audiences how animals can defend themselves from attack in weird and wonderful ways. From exploding ants, squirting octopi and spitting birds. The audience will decide who is the best Animal Avenger!

Visit www.seabird.org for details of what shows are on when. There will be activities in the Discovery Centre from 30 March to 15 April, all included with admission. Adult £8.95, child £4.95, family tickets £25. Free for Seabird Members.

10 Families Edinburgh

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 (30th March to 2nd April), including our famous plastic duck race along the mill lade.

FaMily evenT Day; easTer egg hunT Visit us on Easter Sunday between 11am - 5pm and take part in our Easter 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 storytelling with Alison Galbraith, where she will be telling tales of how the Easter Eggs found their way to the Palace. 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).

© Royal Collection Trust/ copyright Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth 2017.

Photographer David Cheskin

Dr bunheaD's easTer egg oF DooM Discover the deadliest Easter egg in the world as TVs favourite stunt scientist, Dr Bunhead, blasts bunnies into space in his search for the science of Easter. Warning! May lead to serious addiction to science. This show contains loud bangs and traces of nuts.

Age 7+. Tickets £7 or £6 each for groups of 3 or more.11am Saturday 7th and Sunday 8th April 2018, George Square Theatre www.sciencefestival.co.uk

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! From 30 March - 2 April. See website for details www.bkrailway.co.uk

email editor@familiesedinburgh.co.uk

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Easter Days Out spring inTo easTer Fun wiTh The naTional TrusT For scoTlanD

science FesTival We’ve got families in mind at this year’s Science Festival and there’s so much going on, you won’t know what to choose first!

This year, the City Art Centre will be packed full of activities for children, all of which are free with the City Art Centre day pass. Get gooey at our Splat-tastic workshop, make icky scabs at the Blood Bar, learn about the life of bees at Little Giants or discover how electricity works with Little Sparks. Your little ones are going to be engrossed – and entertained - for hours!

If you’ve got a very young child in your life who is obsessed with space, then you might want to head to Valentina’s Galaxy at Summerhall, an intergalactic inspiration for starry-eyed 2-5 yearolds. While you’re there, check our Survive in Space, a theatre show where you have to think and help a lone astronaut facing a lifethreatening malfunction, or venture into Experimentarium, which is a free drop-in zone with lots of weird, wonderful and cutting-edge science stuffed with hands-on and interactive activities. There’s so much to do in Summerhall though, we can’t name them all!

The National Museum of Scotland will also be a hive of excitement this Festival. Not only will we be featuring an enormous balloon sculpture hoisted high in the Grand Gallery as part of our Existence: Life and Beyond exhibition, but there are so many other things to try out too. Want to find out what it’s like to be a chemist? Then book a ticket for Make it Glow and learn more. Are gaming and gadgets more the thing for the child in your life, then we’ve got Game On, an introduction to computer programming; Marty Activate where you can get your hands on a walking, dancing robot and A Coding Adventure Workshop where you learn how to code your own animations. We’re delighted to welcome Cbeebies Jess French who will be talking about Minibeasts (or you might call them insects) - definitely not one to miss! There are umpteen free drop-in activities in the Museum to take advantage of too – you could be there all day.

If you fancy a breath of fresh air, then why not take a stroll through Ecoville, our family-friendly low carbon village on the Mound that will inspire visitors of all ages to take steps towards an eco-friendly future.

There’s so much to see and do, so why not go to sciencefestival.co.uk now and book the events where you need a ticket? Otherwise, check out what’s going on around the city as we’ve got so many free and drop-in events and come along and be part of some sensational science!

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The National Trust for Scotland is getting ready to celebrate Easter and the arrival of spring with its annual Cadbury Easter Egg Hunts.

Dozens of events take place at the conservation charity’s properties from Culzean Castle in Ayrshire to Inverewe Garden in Wester Ross from 30 March to 2 April.

Two unusual locations are joining in the fun for 2018 – Barry Mill, an operational water mill in Carnoustie and the Tenement House, a traditional Glaswegian tenement flat.

There are also exciting new experiences for visitors this Easter, as the Trust unveils two major new developments: The Easter bunny will find a new friend at Brodie Castle this spring, with the opening of the Playful Garden. This unique, familyfriendly garden experience will be full of surprises, colourful stories and giant sized fun, including Brodie bunny – at more than 6.5 metres, he’s about the biggest rabbit sculpture in Scotland.

Family fun at Newhailes, East Lothian has got a big boost too, as they get ready to open ‘Weehailes’ a magical play area inspired by the special place of books and learning in the history of one of Scotland’s most impressive historical attractions. For more information about Cadbury Easter Egg Hunts, the Playful Garden at Brodie Castle and Weehailes, visit www.nts.org.uk.

puppeT aniMaTion FesTival Puppet Animation Festival programmes a diverse programme of puppet theatre, puppetry making workshops and animated films for children between the ages of 0-12. The Festival brings quality theatre and animated films to audiences across Scotland. The festival will run from 24 March – 14 April nationwide. Please visit www.puppetanimation.org

Me anD My bee

eggsTraorDinary easTer aT The casTle

Sun 8 April @ 4pm, Mon 9 – Wed 11, @ 11am and 2pm at the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh.

Suitable for All Ages. Tickets via www.sciencefestival.co.uk (Adults £6, Children and Concessions £4) “A rarity… deliciously eccentric” Lyn Gardner for The Guardian Our fuzzy little friends need our help and so we’re launching a political party disguised as a party party disguised as a show. Multi awardwinning theatre company, This Egg, invites you to save the world - one bee at a time. A new comedy for children and adults alike. Plant the seed for change, join the Bee Party. Before it’s too late… ★★★★ The Scotsman ★★★★ The Stage ★★★★ The List ★★★★ Three Weeks ★★★★ A Younger Theatre ★★ ★★ Edinburgh Festival For Kids "completely in awe" A Younger Theatre "a riotous, cleverly constructed and hilarious family show" The Stage

Lauriston Castle, 2 Cramond Road South, Join Lauriston Castle for lots of Easter fun on Sunday the 1st of April from 10.00am to 1.00pm.

Tickets for this very popular event are £7 per person and must be booked in advance.

Children must be accompanied with an adult.

Call 0131 336 2060 to book tickets 10.00am - 1.00pm / £7 per person

Call us on 0131 622 0405

easTer eggsTravaganza aT Traquair Grounds open 11.00am, with activities from midday Traquair House, Innerleithen, Peeblesshire, EH44 6PW The Biggest egg hunt in the Borders and lots more fun activities all day.

A cracking good Easter Sunday for all the family.

More information available about entry prices at www.traquair.co.uk

Families Edinburgh 11

Easter Clubs, Camps & Workshops How will your kids be spending the Easter holidays?

DraMa sTuDio spring holiDay club booking now The Drama Studio's very popular Spring Holiday Club for students aged 5-14 is running as follows: 2-6 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 a Casting Course for those interested in Film and TV Casting.

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 Weekly Fees - £148 Full days, £92.50 Mornings, £77 Afternoons (drop-in afternoons also available).

Sibling Discounts available. A great week guaranteed!

kiDscene aFTer school anD holiDay club

NEXT ISSUE May/June 2018 • Summer Camps• Days Out • Holidays Book now - 0131 622 0405 editor@familiesedinburgh.co.uk

Kidscene provides after school and holiday care to children aged 4-16, with and without disabilities. We especially welcome children with a vision impairment and we reserve a number of spaces for partially sighted and blind children.

Our premises are within the Royal Blind School campus in Morningside, Edinburgh.

Our facilities are furnished to a high standard and include a messy room, a playroom and a kitchen, all with full disabled access.

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

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

Tuesday 3rd Friday 13th April Week 1 Holiday Care – for ages 4.5-12+years Holiday Care offers a range of activities including; crafts, science, baking, sports and outdoor games.

Week 2 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 25th March 2018 (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

12 Families Edinburgh

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Easter Clubs, Camps and Workshops school holiDay ski/snowboarD caMps anD snow Tubing Book in for Ski or Snowboard lessons at Midlothian Snow Sports Centre, Hillend.

Our courses are running from the 2nd – 6th April and the 09th – 13th April.

Call the centre on 0131 445 4433 to enquire about availability and prices.

A great activity for the school holidays is Snow Tubing....

Tubing is available every day throughout the school holidays.

Great fun for all the family, no need to pre book, just arrive and slide.

Café Facilities, chair lift rides and local walks also available.

excel This Easter at Excel’s camp you will experience an action packed week of fun, exercise, skills development and meet new friends. The week will have a variety of sporting activities, tournaments, team games and filmmaking. Our manager Colin will be teaching life-saving skills and will take the children through the essential skills, of the recovery position and CPR on dummies.

The Animal man will be visiting, to help your child interact with and find out more about reptiles. We’re also including Roaring Reptiles and the chance to meet and feed a T-Rex! www.excel-sports.co.uk

whizzkiDs

DooDles are running 3 easTer workshops For kiDs

Whizzkids is offering a range of computer courses this Easter for children aged 5 and up. In the ever-popular Raspberry Pi course children can learn the basics of the pocket-sized computer including programming Minecraft through the Python language, setting up LEDs and buzzers and creating fun games. With lots of new activities those who have already attended the course can come back to develop their skills further. Those new to coding might like the Scratch course. Children can make fun games and animations with the easy-to-use Scratch programming language. If coding’s not for you then there’s desktop publishing, project creation, PowerPoint, touch-typing, computer art, educational games and a general computer skills course. For the more advanced there’s the OCR ITQ course which leads to a computing qualification.

For further details on the courses, or to book, please e-mail gillian@whizzkids.uk.com, see the website at www.whizzkids.uk.com or call 0131 447 5893.

"play wiTh clay" 10.30-12.15 pm, £15 per session. Please call us to book your place on 0131 229 1399.

Tuesday 3rd April: with Father's day in mind we will be modelling two clay figures from your favourite book/film.

It could be self portraits or STARWARS theme, just let your imagination run wild!

Wednesday 4th April, Wood and clay combo, make a forest of birds sculpture.

Thursday 5th April: Make a ceramic self portrait plant hanger, style your hair every time with a new plant, Could be modelled on your favourite family member or animal also!

27 - 29 Marchmont Crescent, EH9 1HQ

TuMble ToTs

sascs

Why not come along and enjoy a Tumble Tots holiday camp. We run camps throughout the year and will be having two themed camps for Easter 2018.

Monday 9th April 2018 -Tumble Tots ‘ZOO’ Themed Camp. Tumble Tots are going to Zoo today… we will be visiting the animals in our Zoo themed circuit, with animal songs and games along the way.

Tuesday 10th April 2018 – Tumble Tots ‘Pirates & Mermaids’ Camp. Today we will be walking the plank, splashing in the deep blue sea & meeting the mermaids at our themed camp.

The camps will be held at Greenbank Parish Church Hall, Braidburn Terrace from 10 - 12.30. We will enjoy singing, dancing, games, arts and crafts, as well as lots of fun on our equipment. The camp is suitable for children 3-7 years and places can be booked via www.tumbletots.com

SASCS will be operating during the Easter Holidays, WEEK 1 – Tuesday 3rd to Friday 6th April 2018; WEEK 2 – Monday 9th to Friday 13th April 2018, in Sciennes Primary School, 10 Sciennes Road, Edinburgh, EH9 1LG. N.B SASCS Closed – Friday 30th March, Monday 2nd and Monday 16th April 2018.

Holiday Care WEEK 1 and 2 – for children aged 4.5-12+years 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 WEEK 2 ONLY – 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 Sunday 25th March 2018.

insTiTuT Français D'ecosse We are offering two types of French learning experiences during your children’s holiday breaks. For teens looking to get an edge on their National 5, Higher, and Advanced Higher French, we provide exam prep classes. And for all school-age learners, we have teamed up with Theatre Sans Accents to offer holiday mini camps combining theatre games, drama exercises, and French classes.

Exam Prep: 9-13 April. Holiday Mini Camps: 10-13 April; 2-6 & 9-13 July Book now at 0131 285 6030 or info@ifecosse.org.uk

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

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Families Edinburgh 13

Living a waste free life Three ways your family can live a waste free life Across the UK, families who tuned in to watch the BBC’s Blue Planet 2 learnt about plastics clogging up our oceans and emerged as a groundswell of people looking to ditch excess packaging and live a planet-friendly low carbon life.

HERE ARE ZERO WASTE LEITH’S TOP TIPS OF EVERYDAY WAYS THAT YOUR FAMILY CAN GO WASTE FREE: ZerO WASTE LUNCH

ZerO WASTE SHOPPING

Sort out everyone – including the adults –with a reusable water bottle, lunch box and travel cutlery and avoid plastic bottles and cling film. Get the kids involved in helping to pack the lunch boxes and choosing which healthy snacks to include. This way there will be less food waste too! For the adults, treat yourself to a reusable coffee cup and ditch the disposables – they aren’t recyclable, and lots of coffee shops are now offering a discount or rewards if you use a reusable for your takeaway hot drink.

Join the ‘#NaeStrawAtAw’ campaign and opt out of plastic straws when your family is out and about and at home.

Scotland embraced reusable bags after the plastic bag tax was introduced. Why not stash a few in the car, at the office, in backpacks and handbags so that you are never caught short? When you are in the supermarket try to buy items with minimal packaging, avoid mini-sized items and maybe even collect fruit and vegetables loose in reusable bags – try making your own by upcycling an old t-shirt!. Or try ordering a veg box – there are several local suppliers who can help you reduce your packaging and provide local fruit and vegetables at competitive prices.

ZerO WASTE HOME Our clothes have a big environmental impact so how about trying out some of Edinburgh’s amazing charity shops as a low carbon alternative to the high street stores. Use Changeworks’ Edinburgh Charity Shop and Reuse Map to find your nearest charity shop. And if some of your items are needing a bit of repair take them along to the Edinburgh Remakery in Leith who offer workshops and donation-based fix-it surgeries. They can also help you fix up your furniture too! Organising a swap or swishing event is also a great way to get friends together and to get a new outfit for free. As for the little ones, on average a baby will use 4,000 nappies before potty training*. You can lessen this impact by switching to modern and comfortable reusables instead. Changeworks offers Edinburgh families a real nappy starter kit at a subsidised cost, and the Edinburgh Real Nappy Community are a team of volunteers who can provide advice and support. Children grow out of clothing so quickly that you can often find quality and affordable clothing second hand at swaps, swishes and sales, such as the Jack & Jill markets.

Zero Waste Leith is an exciting new project from Changeworks which works with residents, community groups, schools and businesses in Leith to inspire them to create a ‘clean and vibrant place where nothing is wasted’. Zero Waste Leith will build on activities already happening in the area to help the community to: • Create cleaner, greener streets • Share ideas and good practice, and • Inspire more recycling, repair and reuse.

Zero Waste Leith and its partner project Zero Waste Edinburgh (led by SHRUB in south-central Edinburgh) are funded by Zero Waste Scotland and the European Regional Development Fund to provide blueprints and develop innovative approaches to help lead Scotland towards zero waste.

Follow Zero Waste Leith on Facebook Email zerowasteleith@changeworks.org.uk Visit changeworks.org.uk Changeworks is one of Scotland’s largest environmental charities, working with individuals, communities and organisations to deliver practical solutions that reduce carbon emissions, fuel poverty and waste. *Environment Agency 2008 report

miixer CIC Miixer CIC diverts over 20 tonnes of material from landfill every month for community benefit.

Items are sold cheaply to local communities or donated to local groups and charities. Their clothing initiative "Big Pick" aims to eradicate clothing poverty in East Lothian.

You can donate your unwanted, quality items for reuse at the Zero Waste Sheds at Dunbar, North Berwick and Kinwegar Recycling Centres. Alternatively you can donate at the Zero Waste Shop in Musselburgh.

Miixer Loose Parts Play has just been launched supporting nearly 60 schools, nurseries, playgroup and clubs with free materials to develop their Loose Parts Play practice Zero Waste Musselburgh Monday - Sunday 9 - 5 175-181 High Street, Musselburgh, EH21 7DE Opposite the police station in what used to be Ali's Cave, and then Store 21.

The shop is a treasure trove of great stuff diverted from land fill, donated by our community or sourced from partners like the University of Edinburgh. If you'd like to donate your unwanted, good items they are happy to accept donations at the shop. Find out more at miixer.org

14 Families Edinburgh

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Edinburgh Real Nappies The Edinburgh Real Nappy Community has been going from strength to strength over the past year, supporting families across the city who are choosing cloth nappies for their babies.

Ismael Martinez lives in Roseburn, Edinburgh and uses cloth nappies How old is your baby and when did you start using cloth nappies?

We have a daughter called Ada, she’s 18 months old. We started using cloth nappies from around 6 weeks old, before that everything was just a bit too crazy!

Why did you choose to use cloth nappies?

Probably the part that convinced me was reading that disposables take a hundred years or more to decompose. Thinking that those nappies would take longer to decompose than the rest of my life made me want to give reusable cloth nappies a try.

What did you think about them before you started using them?

I thought they were outdated and that there would just be the square towel-type nappies we had as kids. But there are so many different choices and plenty of information out there.

I am glad that we made the decision to use cloth. It’s worked well for us.

Do you ever use disposables?

Occasionally. If we’re away on holiday and there’s no washing machine, disposables are a handy alternative.

Any notable differences between cloth and disposables?

I find the cloth ones gentler on her skin, probably because they’re made of more natural products rather than disposables which include chemicals and plastic.

From a Mother to Another aims to help clothe the thousands of displaced children living in Lebanon, during the harsh winters, who have never known a world without war and families in need in the UK with clothing distribution via Trussell Trust food banks. All while aiming to reduce the shocking levels of clothing waste that end up in landfill.

Linlithgow Corstorphine Edinburgh South Musselburgh Bonnyrigg Livingston Broxburn Leith City Centre Tel: 0131 667 0939 web www.helenogrady.co.uk email midscot@helenogrady.co.uk Facebook https://www.facebook.com/HelenOGradyMidScotland

FREE TRIA LESSOLN

Nearly a third of the UK’s clothing ends up in landfill, equating to 350,000 tonnes a year. By extending the life of clothes by just three months, carbon and water waste could be reduced by up to 5-10% a year. Sending good quality, little worn, hand-me-downs to those in need would mean they are worn by many more children, extending the clothes lifespan.

JoJo will be collecting good quality outgrown or unwanted baby and children’s clothes in sizes 0-6 years as well as children’s shoes until March 11th.

Customers are requested to put together complete outfits sorted by size, sex and season, with shoes in a separate bag and take them to one of their 87 stores. In Edinburgh this is at 9 Multrees Walk, EH1 3DQ

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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

Call us on 0131 622 0405

Families Edinburgh 15

PREGNANCY AND BABY

This lovely shop offers everything mum, bump and baby could want or need. Everything from baby clothing to nursery furniture, maternity wear to baby skin care - and much, much more.

Sara, owner and mum of 3, has extensively researched everything and personally trialled the range of Hotmilk lingerie during her second pregnancy.

Support, Communication & Touch Originally qualified as a Register General Nurse, Anne has been a practicing complementary therapist for many years. She offers a host of support through pregnancy, birth, postnatally and into the early years.

Pregnancy & Birth Through the Relax & Breathe hypnobirthing course or workshop you will be guided through a combination of gentle breathing, guided relaxation and visualisation (hypnobirthing), movement, massage and a comprehensive birth preparation to help you achieve a fear-free, calm and positive birth experience.

Doula Support A doula can provide continuous support for the whole family through pregnancy, birth and the early days of parenthood. Anne is there to listen to you, give you confidence and not judge. Offering flexible, practical and emotional support at your home as well as in hospital.

“The really great thing about the Hotmilk range is they have been designed to be worn during pregnancy and beyond. It’s a win-win really so if you choose to breastfeed you don’t need to rush out to buy nursing bras and if you’re not sure the option is there or if you choose not to it is still a good bra.

Offering you all the support you need during your pregnancy. They combine style with effortless comfort and they are designed to mould themselves to your unique shape” Sara can offer personal advice to get the right fit for you. 28 - 30 Marchmont Crescent, EH9 4HG

Reflexology Reflexology can be used throughout pregnancy. Sessions are tailored to your needs and may vary during each trimester to accommodate the changes that occur through pregnancy helping support and prepare you physically and emotionally for the birth of your baby. Postnatal reflexology can help nurture and restore balance to your body.

Baby Massage and Sing & Sign The power to touch and soothe and heal is instinctive. If a baby cries, for example, we may cuddle or rub their back.

Massaging your baby is an extension of this natural impulse. By incorporating baby massage into your day, you create a special time that enhances the process of bonding with your baby.

Signing is a wonderful way to communicate with your little one before they can talk. It is widely recognised by speech and language experts as helping to encourage development of a child’s speech. Baby Signing can also reduce tantrums in toddlers by half! Babies use signs and gestures as a natural part of learning to talk. By teaching extra signs, such as for milk, tired, and nappy, you will help reduce frustration (theirs and yours!), encourage them to recognise important words and ‘talk’ to you before speech.

Find out more at www.scents-of-wellbeing.co.uk Call Anne on 07811 073 202

Could Shared Parental Leave Work for You?

By Mandy Garner Shared Parental Leave (SPL) allows parents to share time off work during the first year after their child is born, with dads and mums both taking some of the leave, whilst being paid at a statutory rate.

However, in its annual survey Workingmums.co.uk found that only 37% of respondents said they would consider taking SPL. Some of the reasons given were the negative impact on household finances, fears that the dad’s career would suffer and a lack of knowledge about SPL. What SPL does is give parents greater choice over how they manage the care of their new born child and it can be an important building block in facilitating change in discriminatory working environments.

Mandy Gardner is editor of www.workingmums.co.uk, a platform dedicated to finding flexible, challenging work for mums. To view videos in which three couples discuss their choice to take Shared Parental Leave, take a look at the Workingmums.co.uk Youtube Channel.

TUTU TOTS A fantastic fun class for tiny twirlers from the age of 2 with a participating adult.

Drop in classes. No term commitment.

Tutu provided.

Check out or website for full range of classes at our North Edinburgh Dance Studio

Waterfront Dance studio Dancing fun For Everyone!

Waterfrontdance.co.uk

07772 504958 16 Families Edinburgh

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PREGNANCY AND BABY A Healthy You equals a Happy Baby!

Are you pregnant and suffering from skin concerns such as eczema/psoriasis or respiratory symptoms such as a cough, sinusitis, chest infection, asthma or hay fever?

Why not give Edinburgh’s only Salt Cave a try.

It’s simple, effective, drug free and best of all 100% safe during pregnancy and then even safe for your baby from 6 months old. Salt naturally kills bacteria, it’s anti-inflammatory and helps break up mucus. It also removes airborne particles and toxins to improve the ability to cope with allergic reactions. All you have to do is sit back and relax while inhaling dry, salt enriched air deep into the lungs, clearing the airways and making breathing easier after just a few sessions. It can have a lasting effect on your health, boosting the immune system to prevent the frequent recurrence of symptoms.

Salt Therapy is definitely becoming a preferred method to treat many conditions so come and try your first session for FREE. The Salt Cave, Meadowbank Edinburgh is open Tuesday Saturday.

0131 510 1091 www.saltcave.co.uk

What's in a name?

Celebrate the arrival of a child with a beautiful bespoke ceremony from a Humanist Society Scotland celebrant.

“Since earliest dÏys people have held rituals to mark important times in their lives and what could be more important than the arrival of a child into a family? And why should those who are not religious have to miss out on the opportunity to celebrate this momentous occasion and formally give a name to their child?”

So says Alan Ness, Humanist Society Scotland celebrant who also tells us that these ceremonies are becoming more and more popular: “Most of us have now been to a humanist wedding or funeral, now it's the turn of “christenings” to get a personal, non-religious alternative and demand is really picking up. And it's not just babies, sometimes it's for older children or two children when a second arrives, or to welcome a new adopted child.”

“Best of all, it's a fun event, tailored to your requirements.”

Ceremonies can include vows from parents and “guide” parents, poetry and music.

Email: alan.ness@humanism.scot www.alannesscelebrant.wordpress.com

Naming and Welcoming Ceremonies Celebrate the arrival of a child with a beautiful bespoke ceremony.

Real Nappy Week 2018 The Edinburgh Real Nappy Community has been going from strength to strength over the past year, supporting families across the city who are choosing cloth nappies for their babies.

Real Nappy week in April is a UK wide opportunity to let parents and parents-to-be know that cloth nappies could a feasible alternative for them and their little ones, and to spread the word about the options and support out there.

If you've thought of using cloth nappies but weren't sure where to start there is a monthly sale and advice session at the Pregnancy and Parents Centre near Tollcross as well as pop up events at The Wishing Tree café in Musselburgh and occasionally other venues across Edinburgh and Lothian. If you can't make it along to an upcoming event, you can also seek advice about using cloth nappies on the Facebook page.

4 reasons to choose cloth nappies: Cost It’s estimated you will save £500 using cloth rather than disposables until your child is potty trained more if you reuse them if you have another baby, or if you buy them second hand.

Baby’s comfort You don’t choose paper pants for yourself, do you? So why put your baby in paper and plastic disposables when the could have lovely, colourful and comfortable cotton or bamboo fibre nappies next to their skin.

Environment Did you know that 450,000 disposable nappies are sent to landfill every day in Scotland alone? Using cloth reusable nappies can massively reduce waste and your carbon footprint.

It’s easy!

With all the additional washing you have with a baby anyway, it’s not really much extra hassle. And you don’t need a tumble drier, they dry fairly quickly on the line or indoors.

There are so many options with cloth nappies these days, you are sure to find the right type of cloth nappy for your baby.

Join the Edinburgh Real Nappy Community on Facebook for ideas, advice and events info.

The Edinburgh Real Nappy Community is entirely volunteer run.

Upcoming Edinburgh Real Nappy Community events First Friday of every month – advice and second-hand nappy sales at the Pregnancy and Parents Centre, 10 Lower Gilmore Place, near Tollcross, Edinburgh. 10-11.30am.

The UK’s biggest baby and toddler show is coming to Scotland for the very first time on 27 – 29 April at the SEC in Glasgow and it offers amazing shopping, huge deals and expert advice for new and expectant parents.

The Baby & Toddler Show will have an unbeatable lineup of big name brands, unique innovative products, local companies, services and experts to offer a helping hand in parenthood, making sure little ones are safe, happy and comfortable!

Save money and stretch budgets with unbeatable deals on the 150+ top brands and baby essentials. Best prices are guaranteed on pushchairs, prams, car seats and furniture – find all the big name brands in one place.

Save 1/3 on tickets, quote SBT19 at www.babyandtoddlershow.co.uk – adult tickets £8 Plus, there is a free goody bag for every family, packed with lots of branded products such as nappies, cream, wipes and more!

Scents of Wellbeing Anne Young BSc CBMI MIFPA

Pregnancy, Birth & Baby • Hypnobirthing • Doula • Reflexology

Receive a copy of the ceremony script and a certificate to frame.

• Baby Massage • Baby Sing & Sign

Alan Ness Humanist Society Scotland celebrant Call: 07783 153 943 Email: alan.ness@humanism.scot www.alannesscelebrant.wordpress.com

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Mobile: 07811 073 202 Email: anne@scents-of-wellbeing.co.uk

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Families Edinburgh 17

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 Until 23 March Teddy Bears Picnic and Afternoon Tea at Almond Valley

7th March Magic Carpet Every Wednesday until March 28th, 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 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.

17 March Tales from the Magic Drum 11am (45mins). £5 per child. For ages 4+ Come on a global journey through the wonder tales of the world, dancing to a rhythm or two along the way! A riotous selection of stories and West African drumming from storyteller Dougie Mackay promises a fun, interactive storytelling session for ages 4+ but likely to delight anyone with a sense of adventure and imagination.

Scottish Storytelling Centre, High Street

8th March Magic Carpet Minis Every Thursday until March 29th 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.

On weekday afternoons bring along your favourite teddy bear, doll, or any other soft toy, for a special woodland picnic in the tearoom at Almond Valley. Once the fun is done and the soft toys get sleepy, it’s time to tip-toe next door and indulge in a delicious afternoon tea.

Afternoon tea costs £9.95 for Adults and £4.95 for children and must be booked in advance on 01506 414957. If you book afternoon tea you can enjoy free admission to the farm.

Our annual Friends Membership enables you to visit Almond Valley whenever you want. This year, during Chilly Days (until 23rd March), your Friends membership will also allow you to bring along a pal, free of charge.

3 March Walk, Talk, Make Modern One 11am-12.30pm Outdoor explorations in the grassy grounds of Modern One & Two. Wear wellies! For ages 2 - 5

10 March Wee Treasures Portrait Gallery Story sessions: 10.30am & 11.30am Multisensory storytelling in the gallery, inspired by a different painting each month. For ages 2 - 5 11 March Postcard Portraits Portrait Gallery 2-4 pm Pick up your postcard pack, find your portraits and create your own personal masterpieces. For ages 6+ 13 March Tiny Tales: March Hare Madness 10am & 11.30am (40mins) | £5 per child | 2-5yrs Spring is just around the corner! Join Heather Yule and her faithful harp to discover where all the wee fairy folk, flowers, birds, bees and creatures of the forest and field have been hiding during the long, frosty winter months. Fun songs and stories guaranteed to make happy hands clap and tiny toes wiggle. Scottish Storytelling Centre, High Street

4th March Art Explorers First Sunday of every month 12noon – 15:00 Real Life Science Studio, John Hope Gateway. £3pp taking part, children must be supervised.

Drop in to our monthly family sessions where we will explore art and crafts that are about nature in all its wonder.

Linking with the themes of exhibitions and events happening throughout the year at the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh, we will have fun exploring reclaimed and natural materials, making something for you to take home and enjoy. Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh.

6 March Open Studio: Make an Impression National Gallery Drop-in: 10.30am-12.30pm Messy, open, art-making mornings in the Clore Studio. Bring a change of clothes!

For ages 1 - 3

17 March St George’s Junior School and Nursery Activity Morning Contact Mrs Karen Batty in Admissions T: 0131 311 8008, E: admissions@stge.org.uk For families who are interested in finding out about St George’s Junior School and Nursery (from 2 – 9 years) from 9.30am – 11.30am.

Sunday 18 March Anatominis 11am. Full line-up and tickets at www.anatomyarts.co.uk Featuring the best in new performance, developed with the early years in mind and to still be wonderful for every age, we have strange sounds, delightful dances, preposterous performances and remarkably relaxing too. Funded by Creative Scotland and supported by Imaginate, Anatomy brings a bizarre and beautiful sparkle to your Sunday morning. £5 per adult, kids come free. ©Richard Dyson

24 March Sugar and Spice Playing at the EICC for one day only! 11am.

Dynam-nic Dance is thrilled to present "SUGAR & SPICE" our first show exclusively for our littlest performers, our Adult Tappers and Ballerinas, and our whole Kirkliston Branch.

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Out&About 24 March - 14 April Puppet Animation Festival www.puppetanimation.org Puppet Animation Festival programmes a diverse programme of puppet theatre, puppetry making workshops and animated films for children between the ages of 0-12.

The Festival brings quality theatre and animated films to audiences across Scotland.

The Festival isn’t just for kids though. We want parents and guardians to get involved and have fun too, allowing the whole family to connect with one another and their local community through creativity.

24th March - 16th April Easter Eggcitement Almond Valley Heritage Centre, Millfield, 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 (30th March to 2nd April), including our famous plastic duck race along the mill lade.

30 March - 2 April Cadbury Easter Egg Hunt at The Georgian House, Georgian House, 7 Charlotte Square, Edinburgh, Lothian, EH2 4DR, Get ready for a long weekend of fun and discovery as you spot the first signs of spring and experience nature bursting into life at the special places the National Trust for Scotland looks after. Become a nature detective to follow bunny’s clues and finish your adventure with a delicious chocolatey treat. 10.00 – 16.15 / £1 per trail, plus normal admission charges 30 March - 2 April Cadbury Easter Egg Hunt at Newhailes Newhailes, Newhailes Road, Musselburgh, East Lothian, EH21 6RY, 0844 493 2125 Get ready for a long weekend of fun and discovery as you spot the first signs of spring and experience nature bursting into life at the special places the National Trust for Scotland looks after. Become a nature detective to follow bunny’s clues and finish your adventure with a delicious chocolatey treat. 11.00 - 16.00 / £3 30 March - 2 April Cadbury Easter Egg Hunt at House of the Binns House of the Binns, Linlithgow, Lothian EH49 7NA Visit House of the Binns for family fun this Easter with National Trust for Scotland Become a nature detective to follow bunny’s clues and finish your adventure with a delicious chocolatey treat. 12.00 – 16.00 / £2

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30 March - 2 April Cadbury Easter Egg Hunt at Preston Mill. Preston Mill and Phantassie Doocot, East Linton, East Lothian, EH40 3DS, 0844 493 2128 Visit Preston Mill for family fun this Easter with National Trust for Scotland. Become a nature detective to follow bunny’s clues and finish your adventure with a delicious chocolatey treat. 12.30 – 16.00 / £2 30 March – 2 April Easter Egg Specials 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! See website for details www.bkrailway.co.uk 30 March - 15 April Animal Avengers!

This Easter, the Scottish Seabird Centre is taking inspiration from a whole host of super-heroes, with a brand new interactive science show and family-friendly puppet performances. There are two puppet shows for little ones aged 2+ and an interactive science show is for older children, recommended for age 6+. Visit www.seabird.org for details of what shows are on when. There will be activities in the Discovery Centre from 30 March to 15 April, all included with admission. Adult £8.95, child £4.95, family tickets £25. Free for Seabird Members.

31 March Family Art Tours Venue varies (check website).Tours: 2pm & 3pm Explore exhibitions together with our Creative Learning team. For ages 6 + The 3pm tour will be BSL interpreted. www.nationalgalleries.org 31 March Creative Writing Workshop for Children 2pm (2hrs) £16. For 8-15yrs Scottish Storytelling Centre, High Street 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.

31 March - 14 April (not Sundays) Science Festival 2018 City Art Centre – Day Pass. 2 Market St, Edinburgh, EHY 1DE 9.30am – 4.30pm

Visit www.purebrilliantevents.co.uk Contact Bex on 07593 332744 or info@purebrilliantevents.co.uk

A hub of science wonderment featuring interactive workshops and experiments for children of all ages. A day pass gives access to all the activities throughout the day.

Adult £8 Child aged 7+ £9.50 Child aged 36 £7. Children under 3 FREE/ Disabled or registered unemployed £5

Call us on 0131 622 0405

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Out&About ©Ruth Armstrong Photography

March 31st -15th April Existence at NMS. Existence at the National Museum of Scotland, Main Hall, National Museum of Scotland, Chambers St, Edinburgh, EH1 1JF 10am-5pm This interactive exhibition will take you on an amazing journey to the outer reaches of life as we know it, from the origins of life on Earth to what’s next for future generations. Free March 31st - 15th April Ecoville The Mound Precinct, Edinburgh, EH2, 10am-5pm drop-in Take a stroll through our family-friendly low carbon village, an interactive installation that will inspire visitors of all ages to take steps towards an eco-friendly future. Free March 31st - 15th April Pop up Science Hawthornden Court – National Museum of Scotland, Chambers St, Edinburgh EH1 1JF 10am-5pm Join in oodles of science activities for kids of all ages in this free pop-up event at the National Museum of Scotland.

Free.

March 31st - April 15th Science Festival Zoo Events RZSS Edinburgh Zoo, 134 Corstorphone Rd, Edinburgh, EH12 6TS Activities galore descend upon Edinburgh Zoo with orienteering, vet education and learning how to build your own digital zoo. Free with admission.

20 Families Edinburgh

March 31st - April 15th Science Festival Dynamic Earth Events Dynamic Earth, 112 Holyrood Rd, Edinburgh, EH8 8AS A myriad of science activities for children are open for exploration at Dynamic Earth this festival. Meet scientists, investigate outer space and become nature detectives with the whole family.

Become a trainee Environmental Scientist with Operation Earth (March 31st, April 6th, 11th, 12th and 13th) Blast into space in the Cosmos Planetarium (April 1st and 2nd) Become a Nature Detective in Holyrood Park* (April 2nd and 3rd. Free but ticketed) Become a Poet Explorer with the Scottish Poetry Library (April 3rd) Discover how to generate some Arctic Warmth from scientist who work in the cold (April 4th and 5th) Double Dome Nights* (April 3rd, 4th, 5th, 12th and 13th 6pm, tickets available online) ‘Survival of the Species’ with scientist from the RSPB (April 7th) Meet Polar scientists and explore the coldest places on Earth (April 8th and 9th) Explore Wonderful Weather in Holyrood Park* (April 9th and 10th. Free but ticketed) Dive to Ocean depths with Meet the Marine Scientists (April 10th) Explore changing forests near and far and Meet the Forest Scientists (April 14th and 15th) Free with admission.

APRIL 1 April Family Event Day; Easter Egg Hunt 11:00 – 15:00. Visit us on Easter Sunday and take part in our Easter Egg Hunt.

© Royal Collection Trust/ copyright Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth 2017.Photographer David Cheskin

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 storytelling with Alison Galbraith, where she will be telling tales of how the Easter Eggs found their way to the Palace. 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 1 April Easter Eggstravaganza at Traquair Grounds open 11.00am, with activities from midday. Traquair House, Innerleithen, Peeblesshire, EH44 6PW The Biggest egg hunt in the Borders and lots more fun activities all day. A cracking good Easter Sunday for all the family. More information and prices at www.traquair.co.uk/event/easter-eggstravaganza

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Easter Egg Hunt The Palace of Holyroodhouse

COME BACK FOR FREE!

Get your ticket stamped on your Join us in the Palace Family Room to make and decorate your own first visit and Easter basket and then follow a treasure trail to find Easter eggs come back as hidden around the Palace. many times as In the Great Gallery, meet storyteller Allison Galbraith who will be telling you like at no family friendly tales of how the Easter Eggs found their way to the Palace. extra cost!

For full details of events and dates visit

Sunday 1 April 11:00 – 15:00

Š Royal Collection Trust/ copyright Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth 2017.

Photographer David Cheskin

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www.royalcollection.org.uk/whatson

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Out&About 1 April Eggstraordinary Easter At The Castle Lauriston Castle, 2 Cramond Road South Edinburgh, EH4 5QD Explore the woodland trails, enjoy an egg and spoon race, have crafty fun and have tasty easter treats! 10am - 1pm.

Tickets for this very popular event are £7 per person and must be booked in advance. Children must be accompanied with an adult. A snack for everyone is also provided. Call 0131 336 2060 to book

7 April Space Ape 2pm & 7pm (1hr). £10 (£8) (£32) (£7.50 SCS) For ages 7+

1 & 2 April Easter Eggstravaganza Enjoy an Easter Eggstravaganza and fun at Hopetoun House 12 - 4pm.

Try the trail, find hidden treasure and makes some Easter Crafts. Standard entry fees for the grounds apply.

2 - 6 April Easter Studio Modern One. 2-4pm Come and make an artwork out of yourself, inspired by the latest NOW exhibition. www.nationalgalleries.org 3 April Tiny Tales 10am & 11.30am (40mins). £5 per child. For ages 2-5yrs Storyteller Tim Porteus leads these monthly sessions where toddlers can get interactive with tales. A lovely morning for youngsters and their accompanying adults. Scottish Storytelling Centre, High Street 3 April Open Studio: Make an Impression National Gallery Drop-in: 10.30am-12.30pm Messy, open, art-making mornings in the Clore Studio.

Bring a change of clothes! For ages 1 - 3 3 - 6 April Spark Cart Science Also Monday 9–Thursday 12 April 10:30–12:00 & 14:00–15:30. Free, drop-in Meet our museum experts to learn about our Science, Technology and Natural Sciences collections. Get up close to objects and specimens and discover how we use science to look after and research our collections. National Museum of Scotland, Chambers Street

bringing you an evening like no other with live music, entertainment, raffle, tombola, refreshments and more

tickets on sale now

available to purchase online www.youthtalentshowcase.co.uk

saturday 14 april, 6-10pm newtongrange mining museum

IT'S SHOW TIME! DYNAM-NIC DANCE PRESENTS

3rd & 4th April Dr Bunhead's Rubbish Puppets Trip to Mars Telling science stories with things we throw away.

Dr Bunhead's Rubbish Puppets set off on their greatest adventure. Inspired by all the news stories of humans travelling to Mars they decide to be the first puppets to land on the Red Planet. With heaps of imagination and a few science ideas to back them up will they make it? FREE. Early People Gallery, National Museum of Scotland 11am, 12, 1.30, 2.30, 3.30pm. 25 minutes

AND

4 - 8 April Valentina’s Galaxy Summerhall Old Lab, Summerhall, Summerhall Place Edinburgh EH9 1PL 10:30am preview 4th April, 10:30am and 1:30pm all dates after An intergalactic inspiration for starry 2-5 year olds and their adults. Join award-winning theatre company Frozen Charlotte for a fascinating, funny and moving experience inspired by the wondrous adventures of real women in space. £5 (preview)/ £6/£5 each for 3+ tickets

@EICC 24 MARCH Tickets on sale now at dndance.co.uk

7 April Walk, Talk, Make Modern One 11am-12.30pm Outdoor explorations in the grassy grounds of Modern One & Two. Wear wellies! For ages 2 - 5

Sugar & Spice

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Once upon a time, approximately twenty years from now, Yorick stands alone, suited up and ready to blast off in a rocket on his celebrated journey to Mars. Space Ape is a new science fiction storytelling performance for all the family tree by Andy Cannon, Scotland’s leading storyteller for young audiences. ‘One of our most gifted storytellers…

Andy Cannon has us spellbound.’ (The Herald on Andy Cannon). Supported by Creative Scotland, The Edinburgh International Science Festival and Puppet Animation Scotland. Scottish Storytelling Centre, High Street 7th & 8th April Dr Bunhead's Easter Egg of Doom Discover the deadliest Easter egg in the world as TVs favourite stunt scientist, Dr Bunhead, blasts bunnies into space in his search for the science of Easter. Warning! May lead to serious addiction to science. This show contains loud bangs and traces of nuts. For age 7+ Tickets £7 or £6 each for groups of 3 or more. 11am George Square Theatre www.sciencefestival.co.uk 7 & 8 April Teletubbies Live King's theatre, Leven Street, Edinburgh Join Tinky Winky, Laa Laa, Dipsy and Po for their first ever theatre show created especially for your little ones.

Featuring full-sized Teletubbies and all the puppetry, songs, action and sunshine you'd expect from TV's favourite furry friends, Teletubbies Live is the perfect show to introduce young children to the fun and magic of theatre.

Look out for the Tubby Phone, Noo-noo and Sun Baby in a fun, bright and safe world which captures young children’s imaginations and encourages them to explore the world around them.

Babies aged 0-6 months are admitted free of charge.

Children above this age require a ticket.

10am, 1pm, 4pm / £15-£22, family discounts available ©Dan Tsantilis

8 April Postcard Portraits Portrait Gallery 2-4 pm Pick up your postcard pack, find your portraits and create your own personal masterpieces. For ages 6+

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Out&About 15 April Mini Maker Faire Summerhall, Summerhall Pl, Edinburgh, EH9 1PL 10am-5pm drop-in Join creators from Edinburgh and beyond who will showcase the things they make and do.

From engineers to artists to scientists to crafters, Maker Faire is a chance for these ‘makers’ to show off hobbies, experiments, projects and ideas. £6/FREE under 3

8 - 11 April Me and My Bee 8 April @ 4pm, Mon 9 – Wed 11, @ 11am and 2pm Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh.

Suitable for All Ages. Tickets via www.sciencefestival.co.uk (Adults £6, Children and Concessions £4) “A rarity… deliciously eccentric” Lyn Gardner for The Guardian Our fuzzy little friends need our help and so we’re launching a political party disguised as a party party disguised as a show. Multi award-winning theatre company, ThisEgg, invites you to save the world - one bee at a time. A new comedy for children and adults alike. Plant the seed for change, join the Bee Party. Before it’s too late… ★★★★ The Scotsman ★★★★ The Stage ★★★★ The List ★★★★ "a riotous, cleverly constructed and hilarious family show" The Stage 9 - 13 April Experimentarium – Summerhall Summerhall, Summerhall Place Edinburgh, EH9 1PL, 11am - 4pm Our returning exhibition returns for 2018 packed full of weird, wonderful and cutting-edge science. Free.

11 April Superhero Science Show 12:00–12:45 & 14:30–15:15. £3 Adult & Child. £10 Family of 4 Are you a superhero scientist in the making? This live show will explore how real objects from the museum have given us all super powers. Discover the science behind energy transfers, infra-red technology and learn how people like you might discover the superpowers of the future.

Suitable for children age 5+. National Museum of Scotland, Chambers Street.

12 & 13 April Grandad and Me (2pm) & Fri 13 Apr (11am & 2pm) 40mins £8 (£6) (£24) (£5.50 SCS) 5+ A young girl, missing her Grandad, traces his footsteps on a magical adventure through time and space. A story of loss, longing and the treasures of memory and imagination.

'A luscious-looking and tremendously moving show.' ★★★★ (The Scotsman). Scottish Storytelling Centre, High Street 14 April Wee Treasures Portrait Gallery Story sessions: 10.30am & 11.30am Multisensory storytelling in the gallery, inspired by a different painting each month. For ages 2 - 5 14 April Youth Talent Showcase Newtongrange Mining Museum Amazing acts such as Little Voices Big Stars, Sam Carlin, LDD Dance and many more.

You can buy tickets online at www.youthtalentshowcase.co.uk.

(Use code NEWSRELEASE18 for 20% off.)

If you want to find out more about the event and The Youth Radio Network, you can get in touch via email on info@youthtalentshowcase.co.uk or by calling The Youth Radio Network on 0330 113 1520.

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26 - 28 April April What the Ladybird Heard King’s Theatre, Edinburgh 10.30am & 2pm Two crafty robbers, one tiny ladybird, and a whole farmyard of fun!

Hefty Hugh and Lanky Len have a cunning plan to steal the farmer’s fine prize cow. But they reckon without the tiniest, quietest creature of all: the Ladybird has a plan of her own!

Join the woolly sheep, the hairy hog, the fat red hen and the dainty dog in this glittering stage adaptation of Julia Donaldson and Lydia Monks’ colourful farmyard adventure. With live music, puppetry, plenty of audience participation and lots of laughs!

27 - 29 April The Baby & Toddler Show SEC, Glasgow The UK’s biggest baby and toddler show offers amazing shopping, huge deals and expert advice for new and expectant parents.

The Baby & Toddler Show will have an unbeatable line-up of big name brands, unique innovative products, local companies, services and experts to offer a helping hand in parenthood, making sure little ones are safe, happy and comfortable!

Save money and stretch budgets with unbeatable deals on the 150+ top brands and baby essentials. Best prices are guaranteed on pushchairs, prams, car seats and furniture – find all the big name brands in one place.

Save 1/3 on tickets, quote SBT19 at www.babyandtoddlershow.co.uk – adult tickets £8 Plus, there is a free goody bag for every family, packed with lots of branded products such as nappies, cream, wipes and more!

28 April Family Art Tours Venue varies (check website).Tours: 2pm & 3pm Explore exhibitions together with our Creative Learning team. For ages 6 + The 3pm tour will be BSL interpreted.

28 April - Pedal on Parliament Noon Cycle or walk with us on closed streets from The Meadows to the Scottish Parliament to make Scotland a cycle-friendly country. pedalonparliament.org Saturday 12 & Sunday 13 May - Day Out With Thomas™ at the Bo’ness & Kinneil Railway Hourly 10.30-15.30. Booking Now! All aboard for a Day Out With Thomas! Meet Thomas the Tank Engine™ and his friends, who are waiting to meet you at the Bo'ness & Kinneil Railway. Experience a ride on a real steam engine, shake hands with The Fat Controller and take part in Thomas themed activities in the Imagination Station.

Make their day a Day Out With Thomas and book your tickets now! Family entertainment at both Bo'ness & Birkhill stations. Event open 10:00am-5:00pm.

Free parking - entrance to Museum of Scottish Railways included in ticket. http://www.bkrailway.co.uk/

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