Free 速
www.picturehousestudios.co.uk
ISSUE 71 March/April 2012
www.familiesedinburgh.co.uk
Email - editor@familiesedinburgh.co.uk
Tel. 0131 622 0405
e d i s n I s t a Welcome to the Wh 3–5 6–7 8
10-13 14 15 16-17
March/April issue!
News and Views Latest Clubs and Classes News Healthy Kids Win! A Maxi Micro Scooter! Easter Clubs, Classes and Activities Fertility, Pregnancy and Beyond By Fertility Focus Baby and Child Development How Your Childs Eyes Develop
By Clare Downes, Downes Opticians
18 19
Real Nappies & Eat Better, Live Smarter By Changeworks A Warm, Bright & Affordable Future By Transition Edinburgh South
20 21 22 24 25 – 30
Debt Advice By Eileen Blackburn, French Duncan Parent to Parent Kitchen Gardening By Sue Douglas, The Landscape Lady Introducing Leeks! By Claire Burrell, Food Monsters Out & About
Next issue – May/June 2012 Here comes the Summer – camps, activities, days out and so much more! Booking deadline April 2nd Contact Information: Editor: Sarah Adair 0131 622 0405 sarah@familiesedinburgh.co.uk www.familiesedinburgh.co.uk Families Edinburgh now has a facebook page. Come and visit us there for all the latest Families Edinburgh happenings! Also Follow us on Twitter @familiesedinbur Designer: Kenny Dickson kennydickson7@gmail.com
Cover Information: This issues beautiful cover is by Louisa Macdonnell of Picturehouse Studios. www.picturehousestudios.co.uk 0131 553 1177
2 FAMILIES EDINBURGH ISSUE 71
news&views The Scottish Baby & Toddler Show Scotland’s biggest baby & toddler event, The Scottish Baby & Toddler Show is back at the SECC, Glasgow from 27-29 April 2012. For the second year Mothercare and Early Learning Centre are back on board as headline sponsor. The show has been created especially for parents and parentsto-be and brings together the leading specialist baby & toddler companies, whose products range from car seats to childcare, prams to photography, maternity wear to nappies. Exhibitor numbers are once again expected to reach 200! As well as seeing the latest products and services for parents, babies and toddlers, visitors can make huge savings, obtain expert pregnancy and parenting advice, with features including: Free crèche by Bertram • Free nappies, wipes and nappy sacks at the Boots Changing Area • Free facilities at The Baby & Toddler Feeding Area Baby Play Area and new to the show this year, our Toddler Activity Area, both sponsored by Early Learning Centre - packed with games and toys The popular Expert Advice and Information Area will be back with free seminars from expert speakers including: Annabel Karmel, the UK’s leading baby food guru, Jo Tantum, the UK’s leading sleep specialist, Road Safety Scotland, British Red Cross back on board as show charity sponsor and Dr Titzer, expert in the area of infant learning, will return to the show with talks on brain development in children Opening hours are 10am – 5pm daily. *Advance tickets are £6. On the door tickets are £10/£38 for a group of 4. All tickets include brochure RRP £2. Free entry for under 16s. Further information and tickets are available through 0844 395 4000 or by visiting www.thescottishbabyandtoddlershow.com. You can also follow the show on Facebook – thescottishbabyshow and Twitter@Babyshowsecc, for all the latest news and the chance to win some fabulous prizes including tickets to the show. *Advance tickets available until 25 April 2012 and subject to booking fee.
TICKETS TO THE SCOTTISH BABY & TODDLER SHOW For your chance to win a pair of tickets go to www.familiesedinburgh.co.uk/offers and answer this question 1. Who will return to the show to talk about brain development in children? The first 5 correct entries will win a pair of tickets TERMS & CONDITIONS Travel and parking not included. Cannot be used in conjunction with any other discount, offer or promotion.
Edinburgh Zoo Edinburgh Zoo and renowned children’s author Sarah Brennan have teamed up to offer the opportunity to win one of five copies of her latest book The Tale of Pin Yin Panda. The tale follows Pin Yin on her journey to turn the Year of the Dragon into the Year of the Panda! She has beauty, brains and an ego to match, however things don’t go quite as smoothly as planned. This is a must read for any panda fan, the tale delivers Chinese history and culture in a highly entertaining and accessible way. To be in with your chance of winning your very own copy of The Tale of Pin Yin Panda, all you have to do is answer the following question: Edinburgh Zoo’s female panda is called Tian Tian but what is the English translation of this? A Sunshine B Sweetie Please go to www.familiesedinburgh.co.uk/offers for your chance to win one of these lovely books. Terms and Conditions apply
Heriot Hill Nursery We are delighted to announce that Heriot Hill Nursery unveiled its newly upgraded Nursery School (3-5’s) at the beginning of 2012. As well as complete re-decoration they have made the most of their spacious rooms by re-configuring the layout which has allowed them to offer the children a more varied and richer experience in line with the Curriculum for Excellence. They have also added a large kitchen area which has enabled the children to, amongst other things, bake bread on a daily basis and this has encouraged their independence and confidence. Children learn and play in an environment that extends their creativity, communication and curiosity and ensures that they achieve their potential and flourish as individuals. The nursery also have excellent facilities for the under three’s including two garden areas, a music and movement room and a sensory room. If you would like to find out more about the facilities on offer at the Nursery please visit www.heriothillnursery.com or call 0131 557 9907 to arrange a tour. Heriot Hill Nursery, 32-34 Heriot Hill Terrace, Edinburgh, EH7 4DY
3 FAMILIES EDINBURGH ISSUE 71
news&views Edinburgh International Science Festival
Transgression Park Following the success of Transgression Park at Ocean Terminal, 2011 saw Edinburgh’s indoor skate park relocate to new larger premises at Peffermill. The new fantastic park has been carefully designed to take everything that was great about the old park and blend it with some awesome new features including a Pool bowl and numerous interchangeable rails and boxes to make Scotland’s best new indoor skatepark. Within the new premises Transgression Park also operate both a café, offering homemade meals, snacks and drinks; and Transgression Shop offering an array of new bikes, skateboards, scooters, helmets, clothing and accessories. Prices start at £8 for a 2 hours session in the park and equipment is available to hire. Go to www.transgressionpark.co.uk to find out about lessons and specific sessions. “At first we were really, really scared of going down the first ramp. Which was TINY looking back. Then we moved up towards higher and steeper ones. I loved Transgression park. The staff helped us get the hang of it and I've now started skateboarding which I really enjoy” E + S age 11 Annual membership can be purchased at a cost of £35 per year and this entitles members to 25% off all entry prices, equipment hire and 10% off all items in the shop. During term time the park is open 12pm – 10pm Mon to Fri and 10am – 10pm at the weekend. During the school breaks opening times are 10am – 10pm every day.
4 FAMILIES EDINBURGH ISSUE 71
During Easter, Edinburgh International Science Festival is the perfect family adventure. And with events happening all across Edinburgh, there’s plenty to entertain all ages. Spend the day at Edinburgh’s City Art Centre as the Science Festival transforms it into a science playground packed full of circuits, scary skeletons, racing robots and manic monsters. Alongside the return of the most popular events like World of Bubbles, Unwrapping the Mummy and Dig up a Dinosaur, is the brand new workshop, Visual-Eyes giving participants the chance to explore the eye, inside and out. In a year that sees Olympic fever grip the nation, the National Museum of Scotland is home to InMotion, the Science Festival’s bumper celebration of human movement in relation to sport, technology and dance. Visit the different InMotion zones throughout the Grand Gallery and explore the interactive exhibits, performance space and workshops. Alongside InMotion, the Museum is packed full hands-on science fun with special explorer trails and drop-in activities. The BBC’s Bang Goes the Theory team will be presenting free lives shows in the Usher Hall and drop in activities on the Mound Precinct. Don’t miss the series of science stories and author events at Scottish Storytelling Centre or the chance to take part in live cooking demonstrations and messy food fun at the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh. Edinburgh International Science Festival runs from 30 March – 15 April. www.sciencefestival.co.uk 0844 557 2686
Do you want to run your own business? The Hermitage Would you like a better work/life balance, more flexibility, plus an attractive income? Little Kicks, who run pre-school football programmes for 18 months to 7th birthday, are looking for committed and passionate individuals in Edinburgh to run their own business as part of a large team. Support provided is second to none and we are proud to have over 100 franchisees running successful businesses throughout the UK and Internationally. If you are interested please call Salli Baker on 01235 859250.
thinkScience thinkScience Ltd delivers science workshops and shows to: • School and Nursery - curriculum-linked and highly interactive. • Out of school, holiday clubs, science festivals, youth groups bespoke shows and workshops. • Birthday parties - very different and out of this world! • Explosive corporate entertainment – unusual shows and teambuilding thinkscience Ltd, established in 2009, is owned by Jon Davies, an enthusiastic and highly skilled presenter and science communicator. Following on from last years very successful thinkScience Summer Club, dates for Summer Club 2012 will be available soon – check the website for details. www.thinkscience.co.uk / info@thinkscience.co.uk / 07754 219877
The Hermitage is a 12- hole golf course, café and horticulture initiative through Autism Ventures Scotland, a social enterprise which aspires to be an inclusive and creative hub for activities, volunteering, gardening and golf. The golf course offers something for everyone and with no dress code and flexible tee off times, you can relax and enjoy the beautiful setting. Rounds cost £5 for adults, £3 for children and seniors and £7 for families. Adult and children’s clubs available for hire. The café boasts of one of the best views in Edinburgh and has a selection of ciabattas, wraps, soups and home made cakes and muffins as well as Artisan coffee. The Hermitage café welcomes families and is dog friendly. Head along to their family golf day on 1st April. (find out more in the Out and About pages) If you would like more information please contact us at 0131 447 5700 or at Danielle.Trudeau@aiscotland.org.uk.
The Gingerbread House Julie has been baking and decorating bespoke cakes and cupcakes for over 10 years. Catering for any occasion, using quality ingredients and free - range eggs each cake is baked and designed to your exact requirements with great attention to detail. www.thegingerbreadhouse.me.uk or call Julie Brown on 0131 444 2208.
news&views The Bank of Scotland Imaginate Festival
The Foster Care Co-operative
The Bank of Scotland Imaginate Festival 2012 runs from Monday 7 May to Monday 14 May 2012 at venues across Edinburgh and beyond! The Festival presents the finest selection of shows from Scotland and around the world; a stunning combination of 14 of the finest national and international productions from Scotland, England, Compagnia TPO across Europe and Australia, to suit children and adults of every age. So, to give you a flavour of what to expect, this year's programme includes: from Australia, the wonderful Grug (for everyone 3 years +) from Windmill Theatre and This (Baby) Life, a gentle and performance made especially for children 4 -18 months old from Sally Chance Dance; from Italy, the utterly captivating Kindur - the adventurous life of sheep in Iceland from Compagnia TPO (for everyone 6 years old +); from Scotland, the fast-paced and hilarious By the Seat of Your Pants from Plutôt la Vie (for everyone 7 years old +); from Switzerland, .h.g., an extraordinary and re-telling of Hansel and Gretel (for everyone 9 years old +) and many more to delight, excite and ignite your imagination! Join the mailing list now to receive your copy of the Festival programme at www.imaginate.org.uk. Booking opens on Monday 26 March 2012. Tickets will then be available from the Traverse Theatre Box Office: 0131 228 1404 or online at www.traverse.co.uk.
The Foster Care Co-operative (FCC) is a not-fordistributed-profit independent fostering agency actively recruiting carers in Central Scotland. With an office now established in Glasgow, the FCC (Scotland) hopes to attract new people to foster care in the central belt area. Carers from the agency (already operating in England and Wales for more than 12 years) have helped hundreds of children and young people, offering homes for children for perhaps a weekend or for many years. Anyone can foster and carers come from all walks of life. Carers need to have a ‘can do’ approach to life, to offer patience, a stable home environment, lots of time and commitment and a sense of humour! Any children placed with carers will need to have their own room. The agency offers full and diverse training, excellent support from qualified social workers and a fee which recognises a professional caring role. Anyone who is interested in being a foster carer will find comprehensive information about fostering for the FCC on www.fostercarecooperative.co.uk. The site sets out the background to the agency and information about the ethical not-for-distributed profit status. A simple quiz illustrates the qualities which are needed to become a foster carer and pages on the site offer detailed information about fostering as well as links to other national bodies and organisations who are involved in the fostering task. The Foster Care Co-operative is part of a very small number of Foster Care Agencies that work on a Not For Profit basis. Contact FCC If you are interested in fostering for an agency providing quality care with integrity.
Helping Hands: Osteopathy for Babies & Children Specialist Paediatric Osteopath Tom Kelman is one of only two Registered Osteopaths in Scotland with a diploma in paediatric osteopathy (DPO) from the renowned Osteopathic Centre for Children in London. We are really lucky that he’s here to support our local community in Edinburgh. Tom has helped many parents find natural solutions to a wide range of conditions including flat head syndrome, colic and reflux, constant crying and unsettledness, growing pains, glue ear and many more. He always offers a logical and easily understandable explanation to reassure you. This, combined with his approach using osteopathy, makes for gentle, effective and child-centered treatment. You can read more about how he works at www.osteopathedinburgh.co.uk Tom has also written some great articles for Families Edinburgh on a wide range of subjects relating to infant and childhood health problems. These can be seen at www.familiesedinburgh.co.uk If you would like Tom to come and give an informative and relaxed talk at your new mums coffee morning, a baby or toddler group, a yoga class or sing and sign group, please feel free to contact him.
Bright World Guardianships A Culture Lesson at the Breakfast Table and a great way to boost your Income. Bright World Guardianships is a long established Guardianship company charged with offering care to international students in UK boarding schools whose parents are not living here. These bright and brave young students are full boarders at schools but need host family accommodation when schools close for short breaks such as Half terms and exeat weekends. Hosting international students is a very fulfilling and rewarding role. Bright World do, of course, pay a generous nightly rate to cover expenses for visiting children which can offer a valuable extra income to families. Your children will also benefit from the exposure to sharing their home with an international student and will learn about new cultures and countries - think of it as a geography and culture lesson at your breakfast table. So becoming a Bright World host family can not only help pay for that annual holiday but will help to educate your own children to new cultures and at the same time make a young international student's life so much better. For more information on becoming a host family for Bright World Guardianships, please contact: Lana Foster, Managing Director on lana@brightworld.co.uk
5 FAMILIES EDINBURGH ISSUE 71
clubs&classesnews Kip McGrath Kip McGrath provides professional tuition in maths and English for all ages. We support all levels and abilities and we have a team of teachers who are GTC registered. We offer specialised teaching for students who have dyscalcula or dyslexia. Our teachers also work in local schools and have knowledge and experience of the new curriculum. So whether you have a child aged 4 or an older son or daughter studying for standard grades or highers we have both expertise and experience. We have many satisfied students and parents:'Thanks to Indy's tuition my son has now gained entry to the private school of our choice. I am especially grateful since there were only 10 spaces available and there were about 120 applicants'. Sarah 'I got 98% for my nab and my maths teacher at school said this was because of the tuition at Kip McGrath'. Anayeth Contact Indy on 01316106110 for a FREE assessment. www.kipmcgrath.co.uk/edinburgh-central. Kip McGrath Edinburgh (Central), 1 Huntly Street, Inverleith, Morningside, Willowbrae. email kiptutors.edinburgh@sky.com
Music Bugs Music Bugs are now running 2 classes in the Calton Centre on a Monday afternoon: 1.45pm Baby Bugs (0-12 months). Music Bugs fun with sensory play for all babies from birth. 2.40pm Music Bugs (9months and upwards) hilary@musicbugs.co.uk phone: 0844 822 1156 musicbugs.co.uk/classes/edinburgheast.php
Explore Learning
Edinburgh/Lothians 0131 441 3603
HQ Fife 01383 62 45 99
Explore Learning is a network of learning centres for children aged 4-14, where children become members and attend regularly once or twice a week. Explore tutors create individual courses to inspire children to develop into confident, successful individuals with the knowledge and skills to succeed in life. Over 500 children regularly attend our Edinburgh centres to gain knowledge and enthusiasm from our team of fantastic tutors. Explore Learning regularly work with schools in the local community. The courses children complete in the centres support them with their work at school and complement the Curriculum for Excellence. As well as offering families a free trial session at one of our centres, children are also invited to attend free workshops in the Easter Holidays at local libraries and community groups. To find out more about these events and to book your place, please contact your local centre or find more details on our website. www.explorelearning.co.uk
Dance For All Dance For All (Scotland) Ltd, established in 1985, continues to nurture pupils aged 2½18yrs with accredited dance classes: RAD Ballet, SDS Flamenco, ISTD Tap & Modern, Jazz / Street, Contemporary, performance and holiday clubs. Class teachers also tutor their Professional Course students, ensuring high quality, experienced and inspirational teaching. Dancing can improve our physical, cognitive and emotional health. Why not try one of their Adult classes? Choose from Drop-In Ballet, Tap, Flamenco, Pilates & Yoga. Find out more about the health benefits of dance on their website, where you can view testimonials, timetables, photos and more: www.danceforall.co.uk or call to register on 0131 226 5533.
Kids NLP Scotland A parent’s job can be challenging and Kids NLP has extended their services to working directly with parents on how to manage the stress of balancing a job and family life. Learning simple techniques to clear the emotional effects of stress and be calmer. Individual sessions or small group’s session available for all ages. Karen@kidsnlpscotland.co.uk 07837930714
Kb-Insights – Helping Children to Succeed The connection between moving and learning is vital. The cerebellum, the part of the brain previously associated with motor control only, is now known to be, as Eric Jenson, author of numerous books on brain based learning, puts it a ‘virtual switchboard of cognitive activity.’ Study after study has demonstrated a connection between the cerebellum and such cognitive functions as memory, spatial orientation, attention, language and decision making among others. Is your child’s lack of progress at school, inattention or poor social skills intrinsically linked to underdeveloped motor skills? Contact Karen@kb-insights.co.uk to discuss further or call 07837930714.
Summer Little Sparks Tuesday 17th April to Tuesday 26th June (holiday 1st May). These exciting art and craft workshops, give a glimpse into the inspiring world of work from Jupiter artists. Great fun, very creative and inspiring! Inside and Outside activities. Coffee and cake in the Proposals Room for mums and dads to meet and chat too! Suitable for 2.5 year upwards Morning session 9.30am to 12pm – 10 sessions £85 Afternoon session 1-3pm – 10 sessions £75 www.jupiterartland.org
6 FAMILIES EDINBURGH ISSUE 71
clubs&classesnews Portobello Music School Portobello Music School is delighted to announce a new programme of music classes for Babies and Toddlers with accompanying adults. Young children love music, puppets, bouncing and tickling games, rhymes, singing books, simple instruments and spending time with their carer just having fun. In our baby and toddler classes we combine all of these elements to make varied, fun filled sessions, which introduce all of the basics of music making. These classes are the start of your child's musical journey and progress naturally into our programme of creative music classes at preschool, P1 and P2 level. From this beginning, group instrumental lessons follow in P3 where children can choose to learn from a variety of instruments including guitar, piano, drums/percussion, strings and woodwind. Children can also study solo singing and join one of our choirs or many music groups which currently includes: woodwind, guitar, string and rock/pop ensembles. To find out more and/or to enrol please visit www.portobellomusicschool.com or tel: 0131 669 1120
Dynam-nic Dance NEW STREET DANCE CLASSES!! Dynam-nic Dance are launching their very own crew! Learn funky routines to the latest tracks. Learn to move like Diversity and dance like a backing dancer! Fun classes that offer the perfect opportunity to make new friends, dance to your favourite music and it’s a great form of exercise. These classes are great for boys and are a perfect addition to your regular technical dance class (tap, ballet and modern) Age groups are: Little Street 4 & 5 yrs/ Junior Street 6 - 8 yrs/ Inter Street 9 12 yrs. Senior Street is currently running on a Friday evening and is combined with Senior Tap, providing a well rounded dance class. (ages 13+). Contact Nicky now on 07545551271 or nicky@dndance.co.uk to book your place. Also see you our website www.dndance.co.uk for all other classes and parties we offer.
Potter Around Potter Around Friday Kid’s Club 1.30-3pm £10 a session including juice and a snack Friday 2 March – Have a great time making your very own delicious flavoured Lip Balms (booking essential) Friday 9 March – be inspired by our spring lambs in the field and to make a lovely spring collage Friday 16 March – Get in Mum’s good books and make her a beautiful card and bracelet Friday clubs continue with different activities until the Easter break. And for all you Warhammer fans - we now stock Warhammer 40,000 models and paints and are running painting clubs. Once you have built up an army we will begin gaming sessions. Find out more online at www.potteraround.co.uk Potter Around, Overton Farm, Kirknewton, West Lothian. 01506 238961 chat@potteraround.co.uk
Step It Up Dance Brand new breakdancing classes with Step It Up Dance – first class FREE! Breakdancing is an excellent way to keep fit as well as helping build confidence & boost happiness. Our classes are great fun for both boys & girls, are non-competitive and teach new skills in an environment that promotes respect for all. Breakdancing teacher Taz uses modern teaching methods to help kids from Primary 1 – 7 progress their breakdancing, body popping, locking, flips & really cool tricks. Step It Up Dance – for healthy, happy bodies and minds. Also available: Step It Up Dance Parties! Unique, affordable birthday parties - get in touch! www.stepitupdance.co.uk / 07428 110 135/ www.facebook.com/StepItUpDance
Busy Bee After School Club Every Friday afternoon between 1pm and 5pm during term time. Each week we have a specific project to work on which may include ceramics, cosmetics, jewellery and other arts and crafts. Projects will take around 90mins. Price: £12. Messy Play Classes – For pre-school children (Mon, Thurs or Friday am). Our sessions include a range of art and craft activities -paper crafts/painting/ stamping/sticking and each week we have a different fabulous theme to inspire the imagination! The aim of our session is to help develop self-awareness, creative expression, fine motor skills, hand-eye co-ordination and, most importantly, to have lots and lots of messy fun! Alternatively we can come to you if you have a baby/toddler or pre-school group who would love to get messy! For details of all of our classes and activities go to: www.honeypotceramics.com or ‘like’ and follow us on facebook
Dancebase Summer Term
Artistic Director Julie Mitchell, LRAD, ARAD, AISTD Examiner of The Royal Academy of Dance
EDINBURGH DANCE ACADEMY Branches throughout Edinburgh and East Lothian
EDINBURGH DANCE ACADEMY Edinburgh's Premier Dance School * Ballet * Jazz * Modern * Tap * Drama * Singing A caring environment where pupils achieve their highest potential. See us in the Pantomime at The Kings Theatre.
EXAM RESULTS 100% PASS RATE
0131 337 3402 www.edinburghdanceacademy.co.uk 4-6 Coltbridge Ave, Edinburgh, EH12 6AH
Bookings open for a whole range of fantastic summer term dance courses at Dance Base on Sat 31 March at 10am. Whether your child fancies learning some super cool street moves or whether you fancy doing one of the many adult courses, there is something for everyone aged 18 months to 60+! From Ballroom, Salsa, Tango and Le Roc to Contemporary, Yoga, Pilates, Jazz, Hip hop, Breakdance, Ceilidh, Highland and Belly dance there’s plenty to choose from. Classes are available at the Grassmarket and also the Leith venue. Check out the website at dancebase.co.uk, call 0131 225 5525 or pop into Dance Base, 14-16 Grassmarket for more information. Get booking from 31st March, Dance Base look forward to hearing from you.
STEP AHEAD STEP AHEAD Tutoring and Educational Services has been chosen to provide tutors for a new and exciting educational initiative at Cameron House Community Centre. The lively and forward-thinking Management Committee is always looking to be innovative and, in a completely unique project is including specialist tuition prior to this year’s academic examinations – in several school subjects - for some of its members – from both state and independent schools. Ms Deirdre McCann (Prestonfield’s Community Learning and Development Worker) “We believe what we are providing is a first and we are thrilled to be able to offer this opportunity to very motivated and hard-working youngsters who will get the benefit of the expertise and professionalism of STEP AHEAD tutors”. www.stepaheadtuition.com
7 FAMILIES EDINBURGH ISSUE 71
Take life on, one step at a time If prizing the joypad out of your children’s hands and getting them moving more is easier said than done, then we’ve put together a few tips for coaxing the kids to get off the coach. Children need at least 60 minutes physical activity every day to help prevent the risk of heart disease, type 2 diabetes and cancer later in life so making sure they’re getting their share is vital. It doesn’t just prevent the risk of serious conditions, regular exercise and running around helps build stronger bones and develops children’s coordination, concentration levels and confidence. Even busy families can build some activity into their everyday lives and take life on. Here are some ideas to cut down on couch time and get minis moving: • You could break down the 60 minutes into bite-sized • The local park is great for letting off steam, playing tig chunks of 10 to 15 minutes throughout the day with pals or working up a sweat on the swings or climbing frame. • Children should have no more than two hours in from of the TV a day. Limit the amount of time they spend • If you live in a flat or a house with no outside space, it sitting down in front of the TV or computer screen can be difficult to think of activities in winter. But a bit of research into what’s happening locally can solve • Buy some skipping ropes, a frisbee and a ball, they’re the problem. all cheap, easy to use and you can set challenges to keep them motivated Recent research by NHS Health Scotland found 55% of • Kids who have a short attention span won’t spend parents felt they could make their children’s lives long on solitary games. The more excitement the healthier. Ensuring your child gets their 60 minutes of better, so introduce them to team games and big activity a day will help you instil good habits in their lives for the future. sporting events as early as possible For more ideas on getting your children active visit www.takelifeon.co.uk Your kids and their bodies will thank you for it in later life.
(5 – 23rd March) is part of Sustrans Free Range Kids campaign: Sustrans believes every child deserves to be free Chandra Prasad/Sustrans range, with freedom from their front door to explore, play outdoors, and make their own way to school and beyond. Find out more, join in and speak out for Free Range Kids at www.sustrans.org.uk/freerangekids The Big Pedal is the UK’s biggest school cycling competition to get kids active and raise money for the charity Sustrans. A recent project Sustrans did with Scottish schools saw the number of children cycling double, with the number of girls picking up pedal power skyrocketing from 17% to 58%. The race is funded by Bike Hub, the Association of bike traders. Philip Darnton Executive Director of the Bicycle Association added, “The future of cycling depends on every generation of kids learning and wanting to cycle. What better way to get started than joining in the Big Pedal” To get your school involved in the Big Pedal go to www.thebigpedal.org.uk
A Maxi Micro scooter including a safety pack from www.micro-scooters.co.uk Swiss designed with 3 resilient PU wheels, a low to the ground deck and a lean to steer mechanism, Micro scooters encourages healthy play whilst improving your child’s balance and coordination skills. Your child will love the feeling of surfing the pavements and you can have piece of mind that that they are safe on their award winning scooters with their ‘Be Seen Be Safe’ safety kits. The Maxi Micro scooter has been a very popular tool at not only getting children out of the house but also for getting the children to school. No longer are you worried about leaving in time, your little one is at the door bag on and scooter at the ready! They just can’t wait to glide at any opportunity! As you child grows bigger the handlebar can be adjusted allowing the scooter to see your child from the age of 6 up until 12. Maxi Micro is a great way to introduce exercise to everyday life. In response to letters received from families around the UK asking for something commemorative for the Olympics and the Queens Jubilee, Micro Scooters is introducing six very British limited edition Mini and Maxi Micro Scooter designs. These patriotic scooters come in every-which-way of red, white and blue. What’s more, the Mini comes with its very own bag and the Maxi features a bottle holder. The Union Jack Mini Micro costs £70.00 complete with bag whilst the Union Jack Maxi is £105.00 complete with bottle holder. Both available from mid to late March at www.micro-scooters.co.uk
Go to www.familiesedinburgh.co.uk/offers for your chance to win one of these brilliant
‘Be Seen Be Safe’ sets worth around £125 each featuring the Maxi Micro, suitable for ages 6-12 with adjustable handlebar height, Micro Helmet, Frog light and visibility jacket in either green or pink. There is a range of fantastic accessories and safety gear available on the website.
Classes from 18 months upwards.
Ballet • Tap Modern • Jazz
NEW STREET DANCE CLASSES! Wednesdays ages 4-12 Fridays age 12+
NEW BIRTHDAY PARTIES Celebrate with our tailor made Dynam-nic dance parties
ALL CLASSES at Craiglockhart Tennis & Leisure Centre
Call Nicky 07545 551271
FREEL
TRIA CLASS
nicky@dndance.co.uk www.dndance.co.uk
8 FAMILIES EDINBURGH ISSUE 71
9 FAMILIES EDINBURGH ISSUE 71
Easter Holiday Club Monday 2nd to Thursday 5th April Tuesday 10th to Friday 13th April
r e t Eas
clubs, classes & activities Potter Around
Potter Around Easter workshops will run 10.30am-12 daily (2-6 April and 9-16 April) and will include everything from fimo Easter eggs, a beaded mobile, an Easter tree, woodland walks, friendship bracelets and cross-stitch. Find out more online at www.potteraround.co.uk. Potter Around, Overton Farm’ Kirknewton, West Lothian, 01506 238961. chat@potteraround.co.uk
The popular football programme for children Ages 6 months - 5 years Venues in Edinburgh and East Lothian. Book your free trial and/or block booking now! SOCATOTS BIRTHDAY PARTIES FOR AGES 1-5
call Socatots on 07923 005534 or www.socatots.com/edinburgh&elothian j.smith@socatots.com
Fun, funky and educational arts & crafts classes for children. Painting, drawing, sculpture, model making and much more! Arty parties and holiday workshops also available 0131 553 6798 / 07931 513 815 www.artroom32.co.uk
Tumbletots
Dance Base Hip Hop Easter School
Tumbletots are running Easter Playschemes for children from 3 to 7 years at Cluny Centre, Morningside. The children can be left in our care for the two and a half hours. They will play for an hour on the equipment, and will enjoy a healthy snack. They will spend about an hour on the arts and crafts, brio, jigsaws and playdough, finishing off with the parachute. All for £10.50 per child. Non members more than welcome. The morning sessions will run from 10am to 12.30pm, the afternoon sessions will run from 1.30pm to 4pm. The dates for the Playschemes are Monday 2nd, Tuesday 3rd, Tuesday 10th and Friday 13th April 2012. Please call Jo on 01875 819966 for more information and to book your child a place or email Jo on joletelier.lobos@virgin.net
Exciting Hip Hop Easter School at Dance Base- Mon 2 Apr- Fri 6 Apr 09.30-15.30. Open to Children 7-9 and 10-12. A fantastic opportunity for kids to learn a variety of dance styles (street dance, breakin, poppin, lockin and house) from experienced teachers as well as playing with photography, art and music video production. Each week promises to be extremely funky and lots of fun! There will be a chance to show off all the new moves to parents and family members on the Friday afternoon at the end of week show. Quick, places do sell out, so book A.S.A.P online at dancebase.co.uk, over the phone on 0131 225 5525 or at 14- 16 Grassmarket, Edinburgh, EH1 2JU. £97.50 per week or £87.50 each child for more than 1 child from the same family
Enjoy-a-Ball
Easter Artsparks
Enjoy-a-Ball super active multi-sports camps for children aged 3-9. Children will have the opportunity to take part in 10 ball sports - including dodgeball, football, baseball, rugby, handball, basketball, tennis, volleyball, cricket and hockey. Each day begins at 9am and finishes at 1pm from the 2 - 5 of April 2012. Children are divided into narrow age group range so that they may feel confident and get the most from the sports coaching. We will provide a healthy snack of fruit and water to keep the kids going ‘til home time! Our camps always book up very quickly so please reserve your place ASAP to avoid disappointment. To book or for more information call 07921333050 or visit www.enjoy-a-ball.com
11th and 12th April Inspired by Jupiter Artists Shane Waltener and Andy Goldsworthy, this action packed workshop will cover chocolate sculpture, weaving, decoupage and outdoor nest making. Little ones will love this workshop and older children and teenagers can make more complex and challenging work. It’s full on full day fun for 5 – 14 year olds. 10am to 3.30pm. £80 for 2 day workshop Jupiter Artland, Bonnington House steading, Nr Wilkieston, Edinburgh, EH27 8BB www.jupiterartland.org
Doodles Easter Holiday Workshops: Mon 2nd
Fri 6th April 10.30 -12pm. £12.50 per session or £50 for the week! Mon 2nd Play with clay: Make and paint some spring animal egg cups/ tea light holders. Tues 3rd Eggtastic fun: paint your own special egg box for your Easter Bunny treats! Wed 4th Bubbletastic fun: paint a mug by blowing bubbles! Thurs 5th Crazy crystals: Paint your own plant pot/bowl using exotic crystal paints! Play with clay: Make and paint your own photo frame. Fri 6th Booking essential. Call us on 0131 229 1399 to book your place. Doodles, 29 Marchmont Crescent
Spanish Amigos Spanish Amigos provides Spanish clubs for the children of Edinburgh. The approach is progressive multi sensory and we teach the language with cultural notes from different Spanish speaking countries as well as some geography. By learning Spanish children will be able to communicate with another half a billion people and will thereby immediately improve career prospects and global mobility. We have clubs for children age 2 to 12 in different location and schools in Edinburgh. Currently we are keen to grow the number of school clubs and are happy to approach the school to open a club. There are 3 holiday clubs per, the next club is 9th to 12th April and for summer 9th to 12th July. For full details please visit the web site www.spanishamigos.co.uk or contact Kirsty on 0131 510 0328.
10 FAMILIES EDINBURGH ISSUE 71
r e t s Ea
clubs, classes & activities
SwimEasy
Westwoods Superstars
SwimEasy, the market leader in the teaching of swimming, are experts in Aquatic Education at all levels; providing a flexible programme which offers you a choice of lessons to suit your needs. We offer specialist One-to-One, One-toTwo and Small Group Classes for children of all abilities at venues throughout Edinburgh and Forth Valley. RapidTrack Holiday Courses 2nd and 9th of April at Braidburn School and Craigroyston High School. RapidTrack Lessons will also be available at Donaldson’s School in Linlithgow during the week commencing 2nd of April. Our specialist One-to-One or One-to-Two Holiday Classes, for children or adults, can be booked a week at a time, from Monday to Friday. Five consecutive lessons can improve any weakness rapidly and any technical correction, or specific area of improvement required, can be dealt with much more easily. The confidence gained from individual attention significantly speeds up the learning process and develops better self-assurance. This allows the learner to discover for themselves just what can be achieved, and the process of enjoying being in the water is greatly enhanced. These smaller classes are especially useful when an individual has a particular fear of the water. Parents who wish to give their child the best opportunity to develop their swimming for safety, fitness and fun should contact us now on 0131 466 0764 or 01506 205778 to discuss their child’s needs. www.swimeasy.co.uk
Westwoods Superstars is a daytime activities camp for children aged 5-12 years old based at Westwoods Health Club. The health club is situated within the stunning grounds of Fettes College ensuring your child can enjoy exciting activities in a fun and safe environment. Activities during the day include swimming, indoor and outdoor sports, arts and crafts, traditional games, trips to local attractions and much, much more!!! The Camp runs Monday to Friday from 9am to 5pm – but you can drop your children off from 8.30am. Our Easter camp runs from 2nd – 6th April and our summer camp commences on 16th July and ending on 10th August (16th – 20th July, 23rd – 27th July, 30th July – 3rd August, 6th – 10th August). For more information or to request an information pack, please call Westwoods on 0131 332 5777 or visit our website: www.westwoodshealthclub.com (click on “Current Members” and then “Westwoods Superstars”).
Whizzkids Whizzkids is offering a range of computer courses this Easter for children aged 5 and up. With stimulating educational games, including the award-winning Nessy Learning Programme and now Nessy Numbers too, children will have great fun whilst brushing up on literacy and numeracy skills. If you’d rather focus on computer skills there’s desktop publishing, PowerPoint, touch-typing, computer art and a general computing skills course and for the more advanced there’s the OCR ITQ course which leads to a computing qualification (see www.ocr.org.uk). If you’d like to reinforce the importance of online safety to your children the Superclubs Plus course is the one for you. It provides children with a safe online community where they can build their own mini-site, email friends and take part in forums under the supervision of Superclubs Plus mediators (see www.scplus.com). For further details on any of the courses or to book a place please e-mail gillian@whizzkids.uk.com , check out the website at www.whizzkids.uk.com or call 0131 447 5893.
Easter Fun at The Imagination Workshop Monday 2 April 10.30 – 12.30 Easter Eggs. Decopatch, paint, glitter and fabric – use them all to make a box of six fun and fabby Easter eggs! £10 per person, age 5+ Tuesday 3 & Wednesday 4 April 10.30 – 12.30 Spring Chickens. Create your own paper mache hen and fluffy pom pom chicks! £20 per person for two days, age 7 Thursday 5 April 10.30 – 12.30 Flower Power. Make a beautiful flower mobile, great for hanging in your window. £10 per person, age 7+ Imagination Workshop, 136 Marchmont Road, Edinburgh. www.theimaginationworkshop.co.uk 0131 466 0148
Edinburgh Montessori Arts School Easter holiday clubs at Edinburgh Montessori Arts School. EMAS are delighted to be hosting two fabulous Easter fun clubs this year at their new school premises – a countryside oasis in the city. The paddock, fields and the nursery garden are the perfect location for an array of ‘nature school’ and Easter arts activities for 4 – 7 year olds. Nature Arts week Monday 2nd – Friday 6th April. 9am – 1pm. It’s spring break and kids cant wait to get outdoors! Come rain or shine our nature school classes give children time to explore and experiences that connect them with the natural environment. Working with our artist in residence and Montessori teacher children will love planting, playing, painting and more. Books Alive with Pam Wardell Stories in Action week Monday 9th – Thursday 12th April. 9am-1pm. Action packed drama activity week. Creating props and costume and using music and sound effects, the children bring favourite stories to life through fun filled play making projects. www.emaschool.co.uk 0131 446 0777
Mortonhall Tennis Club Mortonhall Tennis Club is hosting tennis camps over the Easter Holidays. The camps will be run by Dan Murray (CCA Qualified Coach) & his team. 2nd - 6th April 2012 9th - 13th April 2012 Each week will be broken down into 2 groups: 10am – 11.55am Mini Tennis Camp (Approx. 5-9 Years). This is aimed at children of primary school age playing with soft/ low compression tennis balls. £35 Members/£45 non members 1pm – 4pm Junior Tennis Camp (Approx.10-16 Years) This is aimed at children who are 10 years or older. The level covers beginners right up to junior team players. Open also to under 10’s who are already playing to a certain level. £55 members/£65 non members The camp is designed to give the players the chance to improve on their technical and tactical skills, play fun games, competitions and other sports. A wet weather programme will operate in the event of bad weather. (10% off on 3 or more bookings from the same family). If you have any queries please contact Dan on 07875 192530 or dancmurray@hotmail.co.uk
The Drama Studio The Drama Studio are running their very popular Spring Holiday Club at Liberton Kirk Halls, Liberton, Kirkgate, Edinburgh from 2nd-6th April suitable for students aged 4-14 years. This will be a real fun week meeting new friends and doing all kinds of Arts activities such as Drama, Art and Craft, puppets, filming, song and dance,Tai Ch'i, dressing up, soft ball, parachute games and performing if you attend in the morning. A different activity or theme takes place each afternoon making for a wonderfully rounded experience for all ages. "Drama Studio Holiday Clubs are really great and to prove it I've been going for the past 6 years". (Sophie Williams age 12) We are also running Casting Workshops for age 8+ Mon - Thurs for students interested in Casting and Auditions. Go to www.thedramastudio.com or call 0131-453-3284 for full details and to register Weekly Fee Rate - £125 Full days, £75 Mornings, £60 Afternoons, Casting £50
Pottery Painting & Craft Studio
Come and try your hand at jewellery, glass and clay making, general crafts and pottery painting Bring your imagination and we’ll have the rest! Available for parties, schools, playgroups and after school clubs See website for details on clubs & classes
Tel: 01506 238961 Email: chat@potteraround.co.uk or visit www.potteraround.co.uk
MORTONHALL TENNIS CLUB EASTER CAMPS Easter Tennis Camp 2-6 April and 9-13 April Camps now in their 8th year! The camps will be run by Dan Murray (CCA Qualified Coach). Each week will be broken down into 2 groups: 10am – 11.55am Mini Tennis Camp (Approx. 5-9 Years) £35 Members / £45 Non Members 1pm – 4pm Junior Tennis Camp (Approx.10-16 Years) £55 Members / £65 Non Members The camp is designed to give the players the chance to improve on their technical and tactical skills, play fun games, competitions and other sports.
Booking forms available from www.mortonhalltennis.org.uk
SASCS will be operating Easter Holiday Care, 8.30am – 5.30pm in Sciennes Primary School, 10 Sciennes Road, EH9 1LG on the following dates: Week 1 Monday 2nd to Thursday 5th April Week 2 Tuesday 10th to Friday 13th April Holiday Care is available to all primary school aged children and will offer a range of exciting activities including; arts and craft, baking, sports, outdoor games and one full day trip per week. Holiday Provision is run by experienced and qualified staff. Costs are very competitive: Full Day - £18.50; Half Day - £11.00; Trip Day - £23.50. For more information and booking forms phone Sonia and Lindsey on 0131 662 4810 or email sascs@btinternet.com SASCS is the trading name of Sciennes School After School Care Scheme Registered Scottish Charity Number: SCO23891
11 FAMILIES EDINBURGH ISSUE 71
r e t s Ea
clubs, classes & activities
Lyceum Youth Theatre Looking for something to keep your kids entertained during the Easter Holidays? The Lyceum Youth Theatre’s acclaimed Easter Holiday programme is returning with two more exciting courses for 2012! For 8 – 11 year olds we have LYT Theatre Makers: Lucky Dip. Participants are asked to bring along an object, story or photo that really inspires them. Once the items are all put together they’ll be used to create a completely original piece of theatre, which will then be performed to parents in a sharing at the end of the week. 10-13 April (10am-5pm) and costs £120 (£60) concessions. If you’ve got some budding musical stars in your family then why not send them to LYT Musical Mayhem? After the roaring success of our LYT Glee course in 2011, LYT invites you to three days of acting, singing, and dancing. No experience necessary, you just need enthusiasm and lots of energy! (12-18 yrs) runs from 3-5 April (10am-4pm) and costs £100 (£50 concessions.) To book either course contact Lyceum Box Office on 0131 248 4848 or www.lyceum.org.uk LYT also offer a variety of courses for the Summer Holidays for ages 7-18 for further info contact John Glancy LYT Producer on jglancy@lyceum.org.uk or phone 0131 248 4830
Excel really is excellent fun! Not long now until those Easter holidays and childcare arrangements need to be secured. From the 2nd April until the 13th April, there are two weeks of fun planned from 8am – 6pm for 5 – 16 year olds. The Multi-Sports Programme is filled with tons of exciting sports to suit everyone from Football to Excel Quidditch, from Fun Gym to Capture the Flag. In addition, during the second week, Excel is running a Young Leader Award for 9 – 13 year olds. This course will give young people the confidence and ability to lead others by promoting working with younger children with the aim of delivering of sports in school, youth and community groups. Childcare vouchers are welcome. For more information visit www.excel-sports.co.uk or call 07970 514 514.
artroom32 Fun, funky and educational arts & crafts classes for children based in the home of a qualified artist in Leith. Pre-school and after school classes available. Children will learn lots of new techniques using a wide variety of quality materials helping to increase creative skills and unleash artistic imagination! Children can be left if they are happy for you to go - with full Disclosure you can have time to yourself with full peace of mind that your own little creation is safe, happy and maybe just a little bit messy. Easter Themed Holiday Workshops ( Wednesday 4th, Thursday 5th and Saturday 7th April): 'Little Bunny Foo-Foo' Make a bunny or chick piñata to fill with treats and then bop it on it's head - plus lots more. Easter Holiday Workshops Week 2 (Tuesday 10th, Wednesday 11th and Thursday 12th April): 'Creation Stations' A variety of arts and crafts activities available each day. For more information please call Louise: 0131 553 6798/07931 513 815. Email: info@artroom32.co.uk or check out website: www.artroom32.co.uk
Honeypot Ceramics Children’s Clay Course April 2nd – 22nd Over the Easter holidays we will be running a clay course especially for children. This is a 5 day course which will run from 10.30-12 noon or 1.30 – 3.00pm. Activities will include, learning how to make a clay hedgehog, pots, door plaques, turtles and throwing on the wheel. Children will also be shown a range of handbuilding techniques and will learn how to glaze and finish their own pieces. Booking essential. Suitable for age 7+ Price £60 for 5 sessions or £15 each. For details of all of our classes and activities, or to register interest in any workshops then please visit our website: www.honeypotceramics.com or ‘like’ and follow us on facebook. Based at EICA, Ratho
12 FAMILIES EDINBURGH ISSUE 71
r e t s Ea
clubs,classes & activities
Easter at The Filmhouse 31 March-9th April The Muppets (U) Kermit, Gonzo, Miss Piggy, Animal, and the other much - loved Muppets, are back on the big screen. Great family fun. £2.50 (under 12’s) Mon 9-Wed 11 April, 10am-4pm, Ages 12-16 years Make A Music Promo, £70 Some great filmmakers started out making pop promos. During three days you will work as part of a small team to storyboard, shoot and edit a pop promo. Saturday 7 April, 10:30am-1pm, Ages 8-12 years Animated Easter Cards (2D Animation), £25. Make your own cartoon characters and animate them to create your very own Easter e-card. You don't have to be a good drawer, just have lots of imagination! Saturday 7 April, 2-4.30pm, Ages 8-12 years Animated Easter Creatures (3D Animation), £25. Join Red Kite animators for a fantastic model animation workshop. Make a plasticine monster or cute Easter bunny and make it come to life in your own 3D cartoon. Just bring your imagination! Saturday 14 April, 10.30am-4.30pm Advanced stop motion animation 13-16 yrs, £50. Join Red Kite Animations for this workshop in model making and animation. We’ll show you how to build your own character just like Wallace & Gromit. We’ll help you to animate them realistically and give advice on how continue making stop motion films at home. For further info & bookings contact: Filmhouse, 88 Lothian Road Box Office: 0131 228 2688. www.filmhousecinema.com
The A-Star multi-sports experience A-Star Sports offers inclusive, developmental multi-sports coaching for children aged 2-10 years. Building on a fun ABC-based foundation (agility, balance and co-ordination), your child will be introduced to and develop the skills for ten core sports. Basketball, cricket, dodgeball ,football, handball, hockey, rounders, rugby, tennis and volleyball. Weekly classes, children’s parties and holiday clubs are all part of the A-Star Programme. Holiday clubs running both weeks of the Easter Break. Our vision is to make sport as fun and enjoyable as possible for young children. We are committed to opening up new avenues to ensure sport is accessible for all abilities, Web: www.a-starsports.co.uk
Music Bugs Music Bugs East Edinburgh will be running the following themed sessions over the Easter break in Morningside, Leith, Hillside and Musselburgh: 2nd, 3rd, 4th April – Transport Songs and Singalongs 9th, 10th, 11th April – My favourite Nursery Rhymes These holiday classes are open to all families, so you can join us even if you don’t attend Music Bugs’ weekly classes. A Baby Bugs (0-12 months) session will be running in Hillside at The Calton Centre. Each 40 minute session costs £5.50 per child and sibling/twin discounts are available. Spaces must be pre-booked and pre-paid - early booking is advisable. For more information, or to book your place, please contact Hilary on 0844 822 1156 or email hilary@musicbugs.co.uk Please consult our website for dates and venues www.musicbugs.co.uk/classes/edinburgheast
SASCS SASCS will be operating Eater Holiday Care, 8.30am-5.30pm, in Sciennes Primary School, 10 Sciennes Road, EH9 1LG on the following dates: Monday 2nd to Thursday 5th April Tuesday 10th to Friday 13th April Holiday Care is available to all primary school aged children and will offer a range of exciting activities including; arts and craft, baking, sports, outdoor games and one full day trip per week. Holiday Provision is run by experienced and qualified staff. Costs are very competitive: Full Day - £18.50; Half Day - £11.00; Trip Day - £23.50. For more information and booking forms phone Sonia and Lindsey on 0131 662 4810 or email sascs@btinternet.com SASCS is the trading name of Sciennes School After School Care Scheme, Registered Scottish Charity Number: SCO23891. SASCS will also be running 2 Summer Schemes again this year, 8.30am -5.30pm in Sciennes Primary School, 10 Sciennes Road Edinburgh, EH9 1LG. Monday 2nd to Friday 27th July - Sports Camp for children aged 8 -12+years Sports Camp will offer the children the opportunity to experience a range of different sports including; swimming, golf, tennis, badminton, etc and will also use sporting venues through out Edinburgh. Full Day - £25.50; Half Day - £12.50; Trip - £28.50 Monday 2nd July to Friday 10th August Holiday Care – for children aged 4.5 12+years (but primarily aimed at children aged 4.5 -7years whilst Sports Camp is operating). Holiday Care offers a wide range of activities including; art and craft, dance, drama, music, baking, sport and outdoor games. Full Day - £19.00; Half Day - £11.50; Trip - £24.00 Both schemes are run by experienced and qualified staff. For more information and booking forms phone 0131 662 4810 and speak to Sonia/Lindsey or email sascs@btinternet.com
Edinburgh Young Musicians Edinburgh Young Musicians’ fourth 3-day recorder course takes place from April 2nd to 4th at St. George’s School for Girls. It will cater for players aged 8 to 18 at a level from grade 1 to grade 8, who want to develop their recorder playing and their general musicianship in an enjoyable and challenging way. www.e-y-m.org.uk
13 FAMILIES EDINBURGH ISSUE 71
fertility, pregnancy and beyond
It can be an exciting time when you decide to start a family, but things don’t always go to plan. The fertility journey can also be a frustrating, stressful and sad time, as many couples or individuals can find it difficult to conceive or may experience miscarriage or pregnancy loss. This can put strain on relationships and can affect self worth and self esteem.
Anne Young BSc RN CBMI MIFPA Mobile: 07811 073 202 Email: anne@babycalm.co.uk www.scents-of-wellbeing.co.uk 25 Inverleith Row, Edinburgh. EH3 5QH
Baby Massage Classes Little Angels (massage, yoga and movement for 9-32 months) Angel Bear Yoga (children 3-8 years) Fridays from 2pm at Fairmilehead Church Classes coming soon to the Eric Liddell Centre For more information or to book a place, call Elaine on 07896111737 or email elaine@yogabellies.co.uk www.yogabellies.co.uk
Baby Sensory Classes
Light shows Brain games Puppet shows
Award winning Baby Development classes for babies from birth to 13 months
Classes in Ratho, Cramond, Corstorphine, Blackhall, Fettes, Haymarket & Meadowbank
Bonding/Massage To find out more visit our website www.babysensory.co.uk
Contact: Emma-Louise Beeson Tel: 0781 886 3334 Twitter: @Edincentral Email: edinburghcentral@babysensory.co.uk
www.fertilityfocus.org.uk info@fertilityfocus.org.uk 0131 554 0808 07760 196 321
14 FAMILIES EDINBURGH ISSUE 71
Infertility can affect 1 in 5 couples of reproductive age. It is well recognised that this may have several contributing factors. These can include: • Medical conditions such as PCOS (polycystic ovary syndrome), endometriosis, blocked fallopian tubes, diabetes, fibroids, hormonal imbalance • Being overweight/ underweight • Excessive exercising/no exercise • Poor nutrition / diet, low levels of vitamins and minerals. • Smoking/too much alcohol. • Environmental toxins such as lead and mercury, pesticides, herbicides, dioxins, additives and chemicals in foods and the environment • Stress and emotional issues. • Certain medications • Age, sperm and egg quality However on a positive note there are many treatments and natural therapies which can help improve chances of conceiving either naturally or with fertility treatment; support you through any loss or emotional issues; support you during pregnancy and after the birth of your baby. Such treatments include: 1.Medical tests to determine any medical issues or conditions 2. Acupuncture - Research has shown that acupuncture, usually combined with Traditional Chinese Herbal Medicine, can greatly increase fertility whether through natural conception or assisted by IVF. Treatment is aimed at adjusting the menstrual cycle to improve regularity, stimulating ovulation, boosting not only circulation and energy levels, balancing hormones and reducing stress
3. Counselling can help with stress and anxiety during infertility, fertility treatments, pregnancy and after the baby is born. It is also very helpful for relationship issues and pregnancy loss. 4. Natural fertility methods: the Billings method and Fertility Coaching offer advice to clients to help them increase chances of conception. This involves preconceptual health coaching, checking the balance of female and male reproductive health, advice on maintaining a healthy pregnancy as well as support for IVF or egg / sperm donation treatment. 5. Good nutrition and a balanced lifestyle are vital for the reproductive system in women and men. Nutritional Therapy can involve changes to diet, preconceptual health, eating fertility-boosting foods, detoxification, supplements and supporting nutrition throughout pregnancy, after birth and during breastfeeding. Tests such as hair mineral testing can also be carried out to identify any toxic minerals and other mineral deficiencies. DHA found in fish and fish oil supplements is very important for hormonal health and that of the sperm, the developing foetus, the mother’s health and then the health and brain of her developing child. Vitamins E and C, zinc and selenium can improve sperm quality and protect from damage. Vitamin D balances sex hormones, increases chances of conception and improves sperm count. Zinc is known as the fertility nutrient and helps with egg and sperm health. 6. Reduce exposure to household and work chemicals, pollution and pesticides. 7. Getting enough sleep and rest, relaxation, yoga, Tai Chi, meditation CDs, stress reduction techniques. Stress can affect both hormonal balance and sperm quality, and diverts blood away from reproductive organs. It also uses up vital nutrients.
Case Study Rachel was 38 with one child age 3. She had been trying to conceive her 2nd child for approx 2 years and during that time had experienced 2 miscarriages. She decided to seek some support from natural therapies and undertook a detoxification and nutritional programme which included supplements of vitamins and minerals, fish oils and a fertility boosting diet to help prepare her body to conceive and maintain a pregnancy. Rachel was told not to try to conceive during the initial one month of the detox powder. She also had a course of acupuncture to help balance her hormones as she had polycystic ovary syndrome. Rachel also decided to use some relaxation techniques and had a couple of sessions with a counsellor, which helped to strengthen her emotionally for the journey ahead. Several months later Rachel conceived again: and after a healthy pregnancy, eating well and taking some pregnancy supplements she is now a proud mum to a baby girl. About Fertility Focus Fertility Focus is a group of expert professionals dedicated to helping you have babies. Promoting optimal reproductive health, we will support you with warmth and care throughout your journey from natural or assisted conception, pregnancy loss, through pregnancy and beyond. At Fertility Focus we are committed to assisting anyone seeking help (couples, individuals, singles by choice and same sex couples) whether they are dealing with infertility, preparing for conception and pregnancy, requiring support for Assisted Reproduction, support during pregnancy, post birth or support for pregnancy loss. We consider each person’s individual needs and address these in a caring and sympathetic way with appropriate treatments We have years of experience between us in the fields of diet and nutrition (Anne Cross), acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine (Ming Chen), counselling and psychotherapy (Angie Cameron-Lynch) Fertility Coaching (Juliet le Page) ... as well as our own fertility journeys. www.fertilityfocus.org.uk info@fertilityfocus.org.uk 0131 554 0808
Connecting Science and Parenting: Introducing Baby Science and the Craft of Parenting Baby-Science founded by Ali Knights is a website and clinic service dedicated to supporting parents in confident and intuitive parenting, and early years professionals in working with families. Ali Knights is passionate about promoting the well being of pregnant women, babies, children and families and offers both online and clinic parenting services, coaching, and workshops all based on current scientific knowledge and its practical application to parenting. “Earlier is better due to the very rapid brain & social development of babies in the first two years’ - Baby-Science” In the last ten years alone we know so much more about infant communication and development, things our parents simply could not know. An infant’s early years, starting in the womb, has a profound and lifelong impact on the rest of their life. Evidence shows that a secure foundation in the first three years supports lifelong ability to meet and deal with the challenges of life.
Baby Science Workshops coming to Edinburgh in March 2012
Baby-Science offers a range of workshops to develop intuitive and confident parenting, starting with two linked workshops to prepare for a new baby and a series of workshops for parents of preschoolers. Baby-Science Workshops are designed to be fun and informative and Parenting Tip will make you say ‘Wow! I never knew that!’ Babies are programmed to be social right from birth. Preparing for Baby - the focus of this antenatal course Your baby is connected to you first and foremost. Your with a difference is on emotional and relationship face is baby’s first ‘toy’, and it is the most important development. plaything your baby will ever have. So, don’t 1. Baby Brain Development: the development of your underestimate your importance to your baby. Your baby baby’s brain from womb to age two years old and will love to look at your face, watch your eyes, take in what you can do to support your baby’s emotional your smiles, and even attempt to copy movements you development. make with your mouth, such as ‘ooh!’ and ‘aah!’ shapes. 2. Your Connected Baby: how your baby is socially Yes! Really! Give it try and see. connected and ready to communicate from birth and What is unique about Ali Knights and Baby-Science is helps you understand your new baby’s the extensive training and experience in perinatal and communications. child psychology and psychoanalytic psychotherapy that underpins the services provided. Working not only with These two great workshops for pregnant mums and their mums with pre and post natal anxiety and depression, Ali partners are coming to Mulberry House in Edinburgh on is also a developmental and child psychologist trained in March 17th & 31st. Places will be limited to 12 for each newborn babies. Her approach therefore keeps you and workshop and pre-registration is required. your baby in mind, identifying and addressing issues 3. Keys to Understanding and Responding to your from both perspectives, so you get an individual solution Child’s Behaviour: A series of workshops coming tailored to suit you and your baby or young child’s unique later this spring that will unlock the secrets of good strengths and needs. behaviour. Register your interest at hello@baby-science.com. For more information please visit: www.baby-science.com, or contact Ali via email at aliknights@baby-science.com or telephone at: 07976 165622 Baby Sensory is now an international phenomenon for parents with babies 0-13 months old. Written by Dr Lin Day the programme of classes are designed to teach parents techniques to stimulate and soothe baby. It's a fun and social occasion with fantastic group activities with parachutes and bubbles to take home ideas of excercise and baby sign. Edinburgh classes are ran by Emma-Louise Beeson are very popular, running throughout the city including; Ratho, Cramond, Corstorphine, Haymarket, Fettes, Meadowbank. NEW Murrayfield classes in a Friday! Edinburghcentral@babysensory.co.uk www.babysensory.com Toddlers can be a real challenge; from tantrums to picky eating, clingy behaviour to sleep tantrums. Support is few and far between and often relies on strict behavioral techniques such as “time out” and “naughty steps” which can often make both parents and toddlers even more stressed. ToddlerCalm is here to fill the gap; it can help parents to foster harmonious relationships with their toddlers; develop a deeper understanding and empathy for their toddler and gentle ways to calm their frustrations, encourage sleep and reduce picky eating. The classes and workshops are suitable for all parents of toddlers between 1 and 3 years old. ToddlerCalm can help parents to understand their toddler and use this knowledge to help their toddler to be calm and contented, which in turn leads to happier parents! Anne Young currently offers BabyCalm classes and workshops in Edinburgh and is pleased to announce that she will be offering ToddlerCalm classes and workshops as from April 2012. If you would like to register interest in upcoming ToddlerCalm classes and workshops or if you would like to find out further information please contact Anne at anne@babycalm.co.uk or 07811 073 202 www.scents-of-wellbeing.co.uk
15 FAMILIES EDINBURGH ISSUE 71
How Your Childs Eye Develops – Baby Science Workshops Ali Knights CPsychol AFBPsS e: aliknights@baby-science.com w: www.baby-science.com t: 07976 165622
What You Need To Know! Clare Downes of Downes Opticians, Leith gives us an ‘insight’ into how children’s eyes develop from birth and any milestones you should be looking out for: Being pregnant at the moment I have been surrounded with pamphlets, books and words of wisdom on the best practices on how to be a good mum and the many thousand do’s and don’ts. Exhausting as all this is, it spurred me on to do a little research and refresh my mind on the development of the eye. Having waded through the wealth of info, I hope this brief synopsis will give you some reassurance about your child’s visual development and milestones to watch out for. In the first month
Twelve months
A baby is born with very fuzzy vision. They can focus to about 30cm which is just far enough to clearly see your face when holding them and they will find your face and expressions fascinating. They will also turn their heads to lights or the window and blink in response to bright lights.
Your baby’s vision has been rapidly developing and now has full depth perception. It is just about as sharp as a normal adult.
At this point they have no binocular vision i.e. the eyes do not work together, so the eyes will appear to wander – don’t panic this is normal!
One/Two months By the time your baby is 2 months old the binocular system is developing and they are able to focus their eyes together allowing some depth perception. If you pass a moving object in front of their face they will follow it.
Helping Children to Succeed Obstacles to learning? Various interventions available Call Karen 07837930714 www.Kb-Insights.co.uk
High contrast or black and white toys are ideal up to one month as although baby can detect colour, they cannot differentiate between different tones such as red and orange, purple and blue etc. By the end of the second month they can differentiate between colours so encourage visual development by showing them bright toys, pictures and photographs.
Your child will smile and their face will brighten up when they view their favourite objects and people. They are busy watching and imitating other children and will now begin to watch their own hand while drawing – they can now manage to keep drawing/colouring on the paper instead of the furniture.
Around Four years Your child can draw and name shapes on paper. They can close their eyes on request and may be able to wink one eye mimicking you.
Four to Five years Your child will now move and roll eyes in an expressive way. They show increasing interest in new objects and places. They should be able to colour within the lines and can place small objects in small openings.
Four/Five months
Will my child’s sight need testing?
Around now your babies depth perception has developed, this will allow your baby to gain better control over their arms and they will start to grab for things like your hair.
As your child’s sight is almost fully developed when they are very young it is important to have their sight tested regularly, therefore any possible problems can be corrected as soon as possible.
This depth perception is also evident as they begin to watch their own hands with great interest.
The majority of visual problems can be rectified with simple exercises, patching therapy or spectacles.
Around 5 months they will be spotting and examining close objects - at this point your baby will enjoy games of peek- a -boo with their favourite teddy or toy.
Premature babies
They may also mimic your facial expressions therefore it’s time to start making a fool of yourself by sticking out your tongue, puffing up your cheeks and seeing if they will copy you!
Eight/Nine months Your baby’s vision is now almost like an adults, their short-range vision is much better than their long-range vision, as the majority of their stimuli are up close. Their vision is good enough to recognise someone across a room; they will demand and point to nearby objects. Their eye colour is very close to their final colour now but there may be some subtle changes over the next few months.
16 FAMILIES EDINBURGH ISSUE 71
Two/Three years
As the eyes do not finish developing until the end of pregnancy, babies born prematurely or with low birth weight are more likely to have vision problems. If your baby was born early or with a low birth weight she will be screened for a condition called retinopathy of prematurity. This condition happens when the blood vessels that supply the eyes with oxygen and nutrients haven't fully developed. This condition is fully treatable if it is noticed early.
Important milestones to check for any visual problems: 1. Your baby’s eyes will be examined before you leave hospital. 2. At 6-8 weeks they will be checked by your GP at your postnatal check. Please note at this point it is perfectly normal for your baby’s eyes to roll away from each other on occasion, this can occur up until twelve months - when the binocular system is fully developed. If however you feel the squinting is more consistent it is always advisable to have them assessed by an Optometrist (in particular one with a specific interest in children’s vision) or mention it to your GP or health visitor. 3. An accurate eye examination by an experienced Optometrist can be successfully performed from two and a half years. All children should have an eye examination at this stage to ensure there are no visual development problems. Children are often unaware if they have visual problems, as they do not appreciate what is ‘normal’. Many visual problems can be easily rectified with early intervention. 4. Remember 8 is too late. Up until 8 years old the development of the visual system can be influenced i.e. a visual problem detected before 8 years old has a very good chance of being rectified, later than 8 the possibility and probability of improvement is poor. Therefore all children should have an eye examination before 8 years old.
Signs that you should have your children’s eyes checked as soon as possible: • • • • •
Any vision problems run in the family, especially squints/lazy eyes. Your child has trouble moving one or both of her eyes in all directions. Your child’s eyes are crossed most of the time. One or both of your child’s eyes tend to turn out or wander. Your baby can't track an object with both eyes by the time of your postnatal check.
An eye examination at the Optometrist Although visual development is a serious matter, eye examinations should be fun and interesting for your child. Modern eye charts have pictures, numbers and lower case letters allowing your child to pick a visual target they are happy with. At Downes Opticians we love testing children’s eyes; we endeavour to make the eye examination a fun experience. The best results are achieved with a happy relaxed child. If you have any concerns about your children’s eyes no matter how small you should arrange an eye examination as soon as possible. The Scottish Government recognises the importance of an eye examination by providing free eye examinations for all in Scotland. I would like to take this opportunity to welcome you to Downes Opticians where we believe that Children’s eye care is one of our specialities. If you have any questions or concerns or would like to arrange an appointment please feel free to contact us: Via our website: www.downesopticians.com or 0131 553 5358
17 FAMILIES EDINBURGH ISSUE 71
Real Nappies… As easy as 1, 2, 3
By Leslie Dible, Real Nappy Project Coordinator
As a real nappy mum running the Real Nappy Project, I often speak to parents who are not too sure where to start when it comes to using real nappies, and who haven’t heard about the many benefits of using them. This step by step guide will help get you started.
Step 1 - Talk to us Experience has shown me that parents thinking about using real nappies like to talk to other parents who have used real nappies on their babies. You can do this by contacting the Real Nappy Project by phone or email for free help and advice. We also run a number of regular events called Nappuccinos at Duncan Place Resource Centre in Leith and at Blackhall Library. Check the ‘Out and About’ section at the back or the events page of the Changeworks website for dates. Nappuccinos are led by parents who have all used real nappies so you’ll be able to find out about the different nappy types and put your mind at rest if you have any concerns regarding washing, skin care and dealing with poo etc. You can also see and feel some of the nappies currently available and ask any questions.
Eat better, live smarter, love the heart of your home. The new, improved Kitchen Canny kit is now available from Changeworks. Kitchen Canny is a welldesigned kit to help the heart of your home run better than ever before and is all about living better and smarter, eating healthy, nutritious meals, celebrating and loving food! The Kitchen Canny kit has been praised as “An eye-opener”, prompting statements such as “I now realise I do waste food when I thought I didn’t” and “The amount we were wasting was ridiculous. We are now saving £30 per week!” The kit guides you through some quick steps to help with meal planning, cooking and food shopping, giving the practical know-how to: Save you money…wasted food cost the average Scottish family £550 a year, or around £45 per month. These savings could mean a seriously plush weekend break or a lot less stress about other bills.
Step 2 - Try them
Step 3 - Get started!
If you live in Edinburgh or the Lothians, the Real Nappy Project gives you the opportunity to try real nappies so you can see how straightforward they are and experience their benefits. This gives you the chance to identify the types of nappies that work for you and your baby, to help you to make an informed choice when you go on to buy your nappies. There are two incentives to choose from:
Once you feel you have enough information the next step is to get started. In partnership with Little Froggies (an independent nappy retailer run by Ingrid Leloup), the Real Nappy Project offers you the opportunity to buy real nappies and accessories at the monthly Duncan Place Nappuccino (check the ‘Out and About’ section at the back or the events section on the Changeworks website for dates).
Help the environment… we throw away 570,000 tonnes of food and drink from our homes every year in Scotland. What is also wasted is all the water, energy and packaging used to produce, transport and store the food. An even bigger waste of resources and a bigger impact on the environment.
You can place orders and buy new nappies from a range of manufacturers as well as buy accessories such as liners, nappy nippas and meshes. We also sell great value second hand nappies, and any profits made get put back into the project to help to keep it going.
Your Kitchen Canny kit includes: • 6 canny step-by-step information cards • 1 shopping and meal planner to go on the fridge • 3 canny bags • 1 canny sticker • Your kit registration number
We also produce a real nappy suppliers list which is available in hard copy and on the Changeworks website.
You’ll also receive canny email updates and the choice to join the Canny Community to share stories, scrumptious recipes and other munchable money-saving tips.
Trial Pack – four types of reliable real nappies plus accessories, yours to keep for £12. Or: Lending Kit – borrow eight different kinds of nappies (a few of each kind) plus all accessories for £12 (£50 cheque deposit required). Real nappy mum Ellen said: “The lending kit was an invaluable resource enabling me to try all the different types without having to buy. I would definitely recommend the Real Nappy Project to a friend.”
So why not give real nappies ago – it’s as easy as 1, 2, 3… T: 0131 555 4010 E: realnappies@changeworks.org.uk W: www.changeworks.org.uk Read Leslie’s ‘Nappy Chat’ blog at http://changeworksblog.org
18 FAMILIES EDINBURGH ISSUE 71
Save you time… less wasted food means less time food shopping. Discover skills… get savvy with those long lost skills in the kitchen that can save you money, time and energy. Involve your family… meal times are family times and much more fun if everyone is involved. Not only that, the money and time you could save can be spent together doing more of the stuff you really enjoy.
Price: £10.00 per kit plus £2.59 P&P. Includes FREE membership to the Canny Community and Facebook app. Where can I find out more and get my kit? Online at www.kitchencanny.co.uk Join the Kitchen Canny Community on Facebook at Kitchen-Canny and Twitter @KitchenCanny
The future – warm, bright and affordable? By Ben Murray, Community Energy Projects Manager, Transition Edinburgh South Picture the scene. You and your family are sitting in the living room of your Edinburgh home. It’s cold and frosty outside, but indoors it’s warm, cosy and bright. The smart meter on the wall shows how much energy is being used within the home, and you’re pleasantly surprised at how low your current usage is. Thinking back to your childhood, you remember how cold and draughty your parents’ house used to be, and once again you’re glad that your own children have the chance to grow up in more comfortable surroundings. And in an age when fuel prices seem to go up and up each year, you’re extremely relieved that your gas and electricity bills are so modest. Furthermore, since you had your solar panels installed almost ten years ago, the feed-in payments that you’ve received have easily exceeded what bills you have had. You switch your attention back to the television news, and listen to a report from the Scottish Government announcing that by 2025 – in just five years’ time – there will be no households living in fuel poverty north of the border. A country-wide push on domestic energy efficiency has meant that Scotland now has some of the best-insulated homes in the world. Is this an impossible dream? Transition Edinburgh South doesn’t think so. We may not have the power to eradicate fuel poverty across Scotland, but we are convinced that most homes in South Edinburgh could dramatically cut their energy consumption at relatively low cost, meaning warmer homes, lower bills and greatly reduced environmental impact. To help us realise our vision of a fairer, more affordable and more comfortable future, we’ve trained up a team of local volunteer energy advisors who can come to your home, assess your needs and provide you with impartial advice on how you can use energy more wisely and more economically.
Our advisors will also be able to tell you whether or not your home may be suitable for a solar installation. In spite of what you may have heard about the recent cut in Feed in Tariffs (FiTs), solar panels can still represent a very attractive economic investment. The cost of the hardware has fallen so much over recent months that payback times are still around 9-11 years (which is probably a better prospect than leaving your money in the bank). If you’re interested in solar power, we can refer you to a trusted local installer to take advantage of our solar bulk-buy deal. We’d always recommend that you shop around for other quotes, but only from installers accredited under the Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS). To arrange a free, no-obligation home energy visit, contact Transition Edinburgh South by emailing energy@transitionedinburghsouth.org.uk, or by calling us on 07972 279159. If you leave your contact details, a member of staff will be in touch to arrange a suitable time and date for a visit. Together, we can ensure that our children grow up in a warmer and more affordable future.
Professional Care & Education for Children from Birth to 5 years
• On site home cooked meals & healthy snacks • Excellent outdoor facilities • Unique music & movement/dance room • Recently upgraded 3-5’s rooms • In partnership with City of Edinburgh Council www.heriothillnursery.com For booking enquiries call: 0131-557-9907 32-34 Heriot Hill Terrace Edinburgh EH7 4DY
19 FAMILIES EDINBURGH ISSUE 71
ASK THE EXPERT Dealing with ever spiralling debt. Question My husband and I both work full time and own our home which has a bit of equity. Spiralling living costs mean that we can’t meet ongoing minimum repayments on credit cards and personal loans. We can’t remortgage to realise the equity in our property and so have no way of paying back the debt. The stress is causing endless sleepless nights. What can we do?
Beano the Clown
Answer Unfortunately in the current economic climate you are not alone. As an Insolvency Practitioner, I assist people in financial trouble. There are various options available to you to help you deal with your debt, without knowing more about your personal situation I cannot recommend a particular solution, however in brief these are:
Magic, Balloons, Songs & Games -5s & +5s, 1hr & 2 hr,
Tel: 07948-070 569 Web: Beano.theclown.free.fr
Debt Arrangement Scheme (DAS) DAS is a government scheme where debtors are given an extended period in which to repay their debts in full without interest and charges accruing. Monthly payments are based on affordability and the scheme removes the threat of court action by creditors. If the scheme is used and complied with, your home will not be at risk. For the scheme to work, you must have income left to contribute to the scheme on a monthly basis after meeting basic household costs i.e mortgage/rent, council tax, utilities, food, petrol, childcare. The period of the DAS depends on the total sums you owe and the contribution you are able to make. Although interest and charges are frozen, you still have to pay back 100% of your debts, but over an extended period. If breathing space and lower monthly outgoings is the aim, this may be a suitable solution for you.
Overcoming anxieties, behaviour& nurturing self resilience.
Trust Deed
Individual sessions & workshops
A Trust Deed is a contract between you and a Trustee, the Trustee is appointed to deal with your financial affairs and deal with your creditors. The usual period of a Trust Deed is three years.
07837930714 www.Kidsnlpscotland.co.uk
Like DAS your household income and expenditure is assessed, this is done prior to entering the Trust Deed. If you own valuable assets like a caravan or insurance policy, these are assessed for value and realised by your Trustee. It is possible to sign a Trust Deed where no assets are available, as long as you are able to make a regular contribution, usually from your wages or salary. A monthly contribution is agreed at the outset and is paid during the term of your Trust Deed. I see that you are a home owner with equity in your property, this has to be valued and the equity realised for the benefit of your creditors. The Trustee may, in some circumstances be able to come to an agreement with you to deal with the equity in your home without it being put up for sale. You are not required to meet any costs directly. The trustee’s fees and expenses are met from the realisation of assets and/or contributions paid from your income.
Bankruptcy Bankruptcy or sequestration as it is also known, is sometimes seen as a last resort by people who have ruled out other ways of dealing with their debt, this is not actually the case, it should be considered as an option from the outset as it is the most appropriate option for some people. If you can show that you cannot pay your debts as they fall due and an Insolvency Practitioner or Local Authority Money Advisor will sign a certificate to that effect, you can apply to the Accountant in Bankruptcy for your own bankruptcy. The Trustee would then deal direct with all of your creditors and handle your financial affairs, thereby relieving the financial strain. You would be bankrupt for a period of one year before being automatically discharged. I would warn you however that if you do not cooperate with your Trustee or in certain other circumstances the period of the bankruptcy could be extended. As with a Trust Deed, all of your assets are assessed and realised, if you can afford to, an income contribution has to be made and the equity in your property has to be realised.
Best Advice My advice is to deal with your debt issues by discussing your options with an Insolvency Practitioner as soon as possible. Please feel free to contact myself or one of my team, the advice is free and in strictest confidence.
Eileen Blackburn, Insolvency Practitioner Head of Business Recovery and Insolvency at French Duncan LLP
www.frenchduncan.co.uk Telephone number 0131 243 1099 20 FAMILIES EDINBURGH ISSUE 71
Parent
2
Parent
Vanessa, Anna and John
Vanessa lives in Greenbank with daughter Anna, 2¾ . She works at the Nile Grove Community Playroup, Greenbank Church. www.nilegroveplaygroup.co.uk Where do you live: In Greenbank, Morningside in South Edinburgh. Why you like living where you do: There’s a nice community feel about Greenbank. There’s lots to do for families and it’s so easy to get out to the countryside or hop on the bus to get in to the centre of Edinburgh. Favourite shop: I love charity shops because you can always pick up a good bargain and there are plenty of them around Morningside! Favourite park: Anna loves the helter skelter at Morningside Park and you’ll often bump into someone you know. Favourite children’s club / class: Anna’s been to swimming classes at Waterbabies since 4 months old. She loves the water, the teacher is fantastic; it is just great for both of us. Anna comes with me every morning to work at playgroup. She loves it as much as I do! Initially not knowing many people in the area I now feel very much part of the community and Anna has made lots of friends too. Favourite day out: With family membership, we regularly take Anna to the Zoo and with so many animals to see, she’s never bored. Penguins and Rhino’s are her favourites! Favourite child friendly restaurant: Cafe Rouge in town is great with kids. Good kiddie menu and a sticker book & a balloon pass the time till the food arrives. A great place to go after waving to the trains on the viewing bridge in Princes Street gardens. Proudest eco-friendly moment: Using washable nappies! Best planet saving tips: Probably recycling. We hardly throw out any rubbish anymore. No parent should be without: Emergency food for both mother and child ! It’s just not worth being hungry! Parenting pet hates: Constantly tidying up (although that’s more my husband’s pet hate!) Parenting high points (what makes it all worthwhile): There are so many things, cuddling up in bed together, lots of cuddles, chatting, dancing round the house to loud music!
Most embarrassing moment with child: My husband left her playing with the car keys whilst buckling her up. In between shutting her door and opening the drivers door, she pressed the key fob and locked herself in. Had to explain to a passing Mum why he was shouting and waving at his daughter to unlock the car! That didn’t happen again! Funniest comment from child: Anna’s latest thing is to sing herself to sleep, any song will do. Jingle bells, Twinkle Twinkle. Even Hokey Cokey being shouted over the monitor has helped her fall asleep two seconds later. Favourite family holiday spot: We went to North West Scotland near Lochinver which was amazing. The whole family loved playing on the beach and relaxing in our holiday cottage. Would go there again. Best children’s book: The Gruffalo. Anna loves reciting it on a stroll through Braid woods and looking for Snakes house in piles of logs! Best children DVD or video: Maisy Mouse, it has been a favourite for a while now. Most played with toys: Piggy, a soft toy given to her by a lady from a Motorway Services coffee shop! Random but true and it has remained her favourite cuddly toy. Biggest waste of money: That’s a tricky one! I’ve had a lot of hand me downs from friends and love going to nearly new sales so don’t feel too bad if things aren’t used that often. I can always pass them on again. Most successful recipe / food: I did baby led weaning and she’s always loved the food we eat, particularly meat! A recent favourite is corn on the cob, great for out and about too. Blueberry muffins, no sugar but a bit of honey and vanilla essence instead certainly go down well.
As parents in Edinburgh you have so much fantastic local knowledge - if you would like to share your favourite bits of being a parent and living in our fantastic city then please email: editor@familiesedinburgh.co.uk
21 FAMILIES EDINBURGH ISSUE 71
Kitchen Gardening Sue Douglas is the Landscape Lady® and Families very own gardening contributor. She has been caring for and designing gardens for over 16 years. Based in Edinburgh and with a young family of her own, here she shares her thoughts on growing fruit and vegetables at home... Box edging
Growing your own fruit and vegetables not only saves money but is an activity that is fun, healthy, and involves the whole family. Children learn where their food comes from, the cycle of sowing to harvest, the connection from garden fork to dinner plate. Shop bought produce can have been sprayed by different pesticides, been grown with chemical fertilisers and washed in chlorine before flying many miles to hit the supermarket shelves. Home grown produce is fresh, tasty, totally in season, with no packaging, food miles or chemical inputs, and the process of growing it involves a gentle, regular form of exercise, right outside our back door!
For those concerned as much with the look and design of their patch as with the produce, planting beds edged with dwarf box hedging (Buxus Sempervirens ‘suffruticosa’) are very reminiscent of French potagers and parterres. Set out the beds in a geometric or symmetrical pattern, with lawn or gravel paths between them. Prune the hedge regularly to keep the edges crisp against the riot of abundance from the cropping plants within.
Budget Growing your own can offer a real saving from buying it, especially if you’re careful in choosing what to grow. High value crops, like strawberries, raspberries and asparagus, are particularly cost effective, and runner beans produce an enormous crop from a relatively small piece of ground. With careful planning you can be eating home-grown food virtually all year round either fresh or from storing what you have harvested.
Aspect and Layout
Patio and Container Gardening You don’t need a huge garden to grow a lot of produce. Potatoes and carrots fare very well being grown in pots or bags, as do strawberries and tomatoes. Indeed, all fruit can do well in pots – from soft fruits (blueberries, raspberries, blackcurrants etc) to trees bearing apples, plums and pears. Container growing also makes crops more accessible for harvesting, and easier to protect from pests and diseases. Just remember that plants grown in pots need regular feeding and watering.
Growing in the garden For those of us lucky enough to have a garden, the scope for growing is more extensive. But if you don’t wish to dedicate an area of the garden for growing, why not grow your fruit and vegetables among your ornamental plants? Salad crops can be very attractive planted around shrubs, and wigwams of climbers with alpine strawberries edging a border can be stunning.
Raised Beds
A good starter mix for growing 4 beds could be:
By far the most popular, and usually most successful, way of growing productively though is with raised beds. Think of them as large containers with no base, sitting on soil. The sides are usually made of timber, but can be brick or stone. You can build them from scratch to fit your space, or buy DIY versions, ready to assemble.
1.
Peas, broad and runner beans,
2.
Potatoes,
3.
Carrots, beetroot and salads
4.
Onions, leeks and garlic
Generally raised beds are no wider than 1.2m (so that the growing area can easily be worked from both sides) and if set against a wall or fence, 60 cm tends to suffice. Squares or rectangles are easiest to construct and make the best use of a small space. Fill your raised beds with a mix of soil, compost and organic matter (e.g. well rotted manure) and make sure water drains away fully and evenly.
Professional Tiling • Wall & Floor Tiling • Underfloor Heating • Wet Rooms • Mosaic • Natural Stone • Bathroom Installation • Tanking Systems Contact Philip Anderson t: 0131 225 1425 m: 0776 894 9977 e: newtownstone@me.com www.newtownstone.co.uk
22 FAMILIES EDINBURGH ISSUE 71
The absolute key to successful growing, however you choose to do it, is sunshine. Most fruit and vegetables require to be grown in full sun on ground that is well prepared. While fruit tends to be a permanent crop (growing and cropping year after year in the same place), vegetables are annual plants that are sown and harvested every year. There are several types of vegetable crops, and if you grow them on a different piece of ground each year, it can help reduce the build-up of soil pests and diseases. So, where possible aim to have 3 or 4 beds, and every year change the bed each crop type grows in. This approach is called crop rotation.
But a golden rule for vegetable growing really is to grow what you and your family like to eat! Whatever you decide to grow, it is very satisfying harvesting a crop you have raised from seed, no matter how many times you’ve done it before. It brings back a connection with the earth that is so easily lost in our busy modern lives. For many, kitchen gardening becomes a fulfilling hobby that lasts a lifetime, and when started with children, can set them on the right road to healthy eating for life. Susan Douglas MA (Hons) Dip PSGD (Hons) The Landscape Lady® tel: 075 9195 2222 web: www.landscapelady.co.uk
Gardening Scotland 2012 It doesn’t matter if they are making a daisy chain or watching a caterpillar wiggle it’s way across a leaf, children just love being out in the garden. Messing about in the natural world is a fun way to learn about so many of life’s important lessons, from how food grows to the importance of wildlife to the health of the planet. At Gardening Scotland 2012, the national gardening and outdoor living show, there are loads of ways for children to find out more about our living environment and get their hands dirty. The show will take place from Friday 1st June until Sunday 3rd June at the Royal Highland Centre in Edinburgh and will provide information and inspiration for gardeners of all ages. Top attractions include the Dobbies Pallet Garden Challenge, where schools and nurseries from across Scotland compete to create the best miniature garden, the Big Back Garden which will be filled with activities for all the family and the Living Garden which is the place to find out about bugs, bees and lots of other fascinating facts about nature. Add to that inspirational Show Gardens, the Floral Hall filled with thousands of beautiful blooms, a huge Craft Marquee, Food Fayre, Cookery Theatre and more than 400 exhibitors selling everything from seeds to sunrooms and Gardening Scotland 2012 is a great day out for everyone! Tickets cost £14 for Friday and £12 for Saturday or Sunday when bought in advance. Children under 16 go free. Call 0131 333 0965 or visit www.gardeningscotland.com for more information.
Bursting with bright ideas and packed full of colourful pictures, RHS Grow Your Own For Kids (£12.99 Octopus Publishing) is the perfect guide for the little gardeners in your life. Aimed at children aged 5-11 the ‘Blue Peter’ gardener Chris Collins and the Guardian writer Lia Leendertz show you just how much fun gardening can be and encourage children to get outside and “get growing.” The book includes 30 easy-to-follow step-by-step projects ranging from growing perfect potatoes, growing giant sunflowers and how to grow the best corn-on-the-cob. The book takes the ‘Grow Your Own’ ethos of food provenance, self-sufficiency, and healthy eating that has captured the nation and aims it to a younger audience.
We’ve got 5 copies of this lovely book to giveaway. For your chance to win one go to www.familiesedinburgh.co.uk/offers 23 FAMILIES EDINBURGH ISSUE 71
Introducing Leeks
Are you struggling to get your young child interested in food? And bored of cooking the same meals all the time? To get young children interested in food you need to get them thinking about it outside of mealtimes, and appeal to their senses with different foods. Here are some ideas on involving your young child in preparing a seasonal vegetable, and a recipe idea to add to your family favourites. Leeks are a great milder-flavoured alternative to onion. If your kids don't like the taste of onions then leeks are a good place to start.
Preparing leeks with young children
Cooking leeks
• Ask your child if the leek is hard or soft, and what colour it is. Talk about its stripy green and white coat!
• Cut the pieces into chunks and blitz them in a food processor, or slice finely. Show your child what the chopped up leeks look like.
• Cut off the bottom of the leek and enough of the top to remove all the dark green leaves. • Put some water into a clean basin or plastic container and put a big towel underneath. Show your child how to wash the outside of the leek, and give the leek to them to wash themselves. • Ask your child to peel layers of the whole leek and wash each big layer. Then use kitchen roll to wrap the pieces up ‘like parcels’, and clean off any remaining bits of dirt. • Ask your child what the leek smells like. • Explain that this is raw leek and that it needs to be cooked before you can eat it.
Recipe
• Cook the leek gently in a pan with some olive oil or butter for about 10-15 mins until very soft. Show your child the end result, and ask them how it smells now: is it different to when it was raw? • Add the cooked leeks to cheese sauces, or include raw leeks with other ingredients in soups and casseroles.
Lemon & Courgette Risotto The leeks and courgettes seem to disappear into this fresh and warming dish. Grating courgettes is fast and effortless too! Don’t miss the lemon out as it really lifts the taste of the vegetables. Preparation and cooking time: less than 45 minutes. One-pot meal. Serves 2 adults and 2 children.
Ingredients •
25g Butter or Margarine
•
1tbsp Olive Oil
•
2 Leeks
•
2 Courgettes
•
1 Lemon
•
2 cloves of Garlic
•
200g Arborio or other risotto Rice
•
150ml White Wine
•
600ml(approx) Vegetable Stock
•
50g Parmesan Cheese (optional)
Method: 1. Trim and finely chop the Leeks and finely chop the Garlic (you can use a food processor). 2. Grate the Courgette and the Parmesan Cheese. Juice the Lemon. 3. Heat a large pan to medium heat. Add half the Butter and all the Olive Oil. 4. Add the Leeks, Garlic and Courgette and cook for about 5 mins. 5. Add the Arborio Rice, stir and cook for 1 min. Add the White Wine and simmer until absorbed by the rice. 6. Add about 150ml of Vegetable Stock, stir and simmer until absorbed. 7. Repeat step 6 until all the Stock has been absorbed, making sure the mixture does not dry out. This should take about 20 mins. 8. Test a few grains of rice and add more water if it needs longer cooking. It should still have a little bit of ‘bite’. 9. Take the pan off the heat and add the Lemon Juice, the rest of the Butter and most of the Parmesan Cheese, and mix well. 10. Leave for a couple of minutes to let the flavours combine. 11. Serve in bowls with a final sprinkle of the remaining Parmesan Cheese.
Greenhill Montessori Nursery
Claire Burrell claireburrell@foodmonsters.co.uk www.foodmonsters.co.uk 0131 538 4815
SASCS will be running 2 Summer Schemes again this year, 8.30am - 5.30pm in Sciennes Primary School, 10 Sciennes Road, EH9 1LG. Monday 2nd to Friday 27th July 2012 Sports Camp – for children aged 8 -12+years
• Bilingual - Spanish • Full Sessions, AM or PM • Parents and Toddlers Groups • Gardening, Movement, Music • Extracurricular Spanish Lessons
0131 629 0787 www.greenhillmontessori.co.uk 24 FAMILIES EDINBURGH ISSUE 71
Sports Camp will offer the children the opportunity to experience a range of different sports including; swimming, golf, tennis, badminton, etc and will also use sporting venues through out Edinburgh. Full Day - £25.50; Half Day - £12.50; Trip - £28.50
Monday 2nd July to Friday 10th August 2012 Holiday Care – for children aged 4.5 -12+years (but primarily aimed at children aged 4.5 -7years whilst Sports Camp is operating). Holiday Care offers a wide range of activities including; art and craft, dance, drama, music, baking, sport and outdoor games. Full Day - £19.00; Half Day - £11.50; Trip - £24.00 Both schemes are run by experienced and qualified staff.
For more information and booking forms phone 0131 662 4810 and speak to Sonia/Lindsey or email sascs@btinternet.com SASCS is the trading name of Sciennes School After School Care Scheme Registered Scottish Charity Number: SCO23891
& About All these events and more can be found on our website www.familiesedinburgh.co.uk While every care has been taken to compile the OUT AND ABOUT section please remember that this magazine is printed weeks ahead 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 Until 27 May Fascinating Mummies. Members free, adults £9, concessions £7.50, child 5-15 years £6, 0-4 years free, family (2 adults and 2 children) £26. Book tickets online or call 0300 123 6789. National Museum of Scotland, Chambers Street, Edinburgh, EH1 1JF 1st March – I see a Friendly Face (Nature Nippers). Come along and make a face in the Newhailes estate woodland by collecting leaves, wood and a little clay. We may even find a stone face hidden in the grounds? Run by a NTS Ranger on the first Thursday of nearly every month, there’ll be wildlife to see, things to make and games to play. For under 5’s. Call 0844 493 2124 or email lothianranger@nts.org.uk for more information. Children need to be accompanied by an adult. We will be going outside for part of the session every month so wellies and warm, waterproof clothes are a must. Costs £2 per session Saturday 3 March Sail the Seven Seas Model Boats. Make a fantastic model sailing boat inspired by the trade routes that supplied Edinburgh, and fill it with cargo from around the world. 10.30am - 12.30pm or 1.30pm 3.30pm. With Tessa Asquith-Lamb. Suitable for ages 5+. Booking essential. For further information and to book, contact Margaret Findlay on 0131 529 3963 or via margaret.findlay@edinburgh.gov.uk Museum of Edinburgh
4 March Art Cart Ages 4-12. 2 – 4pm. Free drop-in art activities for all the family led by artists Tessa Asquith-Lamb and Louise Fraser. Each month, there's something new to create inspired by different works from the collection or exhibitions. Supported by the Friends of the National Galleries of Scotland. Scottish National Gallery
Saturday 10th March Clay Bird Baths. Come along and make your own hand built clay bird bath, either using slab or coiling techniques. Price £12.00 per head. Booking Essential. 10.30 – 12noon 0131 333 6348 www.honeypotceramics.com Saturday 10 - Sunday 11 March Get Out There! 1.00 pm - 4.00 pm. Learn all about the wildlife on your doorstep and beyond! Scotland is home to some of the UK's most amazing wildlife - come along and find out more. With Scottish Wildlife Trust. Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh. Real Life Science Studio, John Hope Gateway 5th – 31st March Chloe Gardner Exhibition at Newington Library. Chloe Gardner is a local artist living in Edinburgh. Inspired by her beautiful surroundings here and the 5 years she lived in Brazil, she produces bright striking pictures in acrylics perfect for contemporary houses. Living in a wood and in a protected bird area she has also used feathers and leaves to create unique pictures such as her autumn leaf hares and her charming dragon. Chloe sells cards as well as originals and prints but it is the latter that will be on show (and for sale) at Newington Library, 17 – 21 Fountainhall Road from March 5th - 31st. Prices are from £45 dependent on size and every design can be ordered in any size required. 6 March - 24 June See Scotland by Train. Free. Exhibition Gallery 2, Level 3. See Scotland by Train provides the first chance to see National Museums Scotland's beautiful collection of Scottish railway posters. These striking works of art reflect the changing tastes and needs of the rail passenger over the last 100 years, giving a flavour of what it meant to travel by rail. They depict some of the most dramatic and scenic locations around Scotland. National Museum of Scotland, Chambers Street, Edinburgh
Saturday 3 - Sunday 4 March Edible Garden - Crops and Seeds 1.00 pm — 4.00 pm. Fancy growing your own vegetables but don't know where to start? Pop in for some friendly advice from the edible gardening team. Focusing on crops and seeds the team will be on hand with advice and fun activities. Part of the Edible Gardening Project funded by the People's Postcode Lottery. Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh Real Life Science Studio, John Hope Gateway
Saturday 10th I Love My Mum! Artroom 32 are holding Mother's Day Workshops. Make the special person in your life a unique gift they will treasure forever. For more information please call Louise: 0131 553 6798/07931 513 815. Email: info@artroom32.co.uk or check out website: www.artroom32.co.uk
Fri 9 & Saturday 10 March Gifts of the Goddess 12pm-7pm Browse, buy and sample from a wide selection of stalls right next to the Café. You'll find all sorts of treats on offer including jewellery, crafts, handmade cards, relaxation treatments, feminist literature, music, information from women's organisations and activities to keep the children entertained. Scottish Storytelling Centre, High Street, Edinburgh
Saturday, 10th (10am – 5pm) & Sunday 11th March 2011 (12-5pm) Dunbar SciFest Dunbar Primary School, John Muir Campus. The Parent Council of Dunbar Primary School is organising an amazing weekend-long science festival for families in Edinburgh, the Lothians and Borders. We are building upon the phenomenal success of last year’s first event which attracted over 2,000 visitors and over 20 activity providers during the Sunday afternoon. This year’s extended programme is fantastic, with an incredible range of drop-in workshops and demonstrations, science shows, talks and even dinosaur and seabird storytelling for the wee ones. See our website for details, directions and car parking information etc. The admission charge is just £3 per adult and £2 per child, with Family Tickets (up to 5 kids) for £10. www.dunbarscifest.org.uk Sunday 11 March Sea stories and songs from Scotland 2.00 pm - 4.00 pm. 2 performances: Suggested donation £3. 2pm: For ages 10 and under (& parents/guardians). 3pm: For ages 10 +. A veritable delight of stories and songs from Scotland's seascape. An innovative performance guaranteed to delight, enthrall and entrance - not to be missed. Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh. Patrick Geddes Room. Supported by EMS (with funds from Creative Scotland).
PLEASE COME AND SEE
CHLOE GARDNER PRINTS AT NEWINGTON
LIBRARY EH9
5th - 31st MARCH
WWW.CHLOEGARDNER.COM (I SELL CARDS TOO)
25 FAMILIES EDINBURGH ISSUE 71
& About All these events and more can be found on Sunday 11 March The Jack & Jill Market. 10.30am-1.30pm 40 stalls bursting with quality nearly-new baby & kids clothes, cots, toys, buggys, bikes and all the rest (0-9 yrs) £1 Adults. West Lothian College, Almondvale Crescent, Livingston EH54 7EP To book a stall visit: www.jackandjillmarket.co.uk Sunday 11 March Portrait Detectives! 2 – 4pm for ages 4 – 12. Become a Portrait Detective for the afternoon! Collect your kit, follow clues and help solve mysteries involving characters from Scottish history. Supported by the friends of the National Galleries of Scotland. Scottish National Portrait Gallery
Sunday 11th March The Snail and the Whale. Tall Stories (creators of the Gruffalo and Room on the Broom stage shows) are proud to present their latest collaboration with Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler. A tiny snail longs to see the world, so she hitches a lift on the tail of a huge humpback whale. Together they go on an amazing journey, experiencing sharks and penguins, icebergs and volcanoes. The little snail is amazed by it all, but starts feeling very small in the vastness of the world. Then disaster strikes – the whale becomes beached in a bay… Can the tiny snail save the day? Created in Tall Stories’ unique style, The Snail and the Whale combines physical storytelling, live music and lots of laughs – for everyone aged 4 and up. Pleasance Theatre, 60 Pleasance, Edinburgh, EH8 9JT. 1.30 pm and 3.30pm. Tickets: £7 for adults, £5 for children. Tickets can be purchased by called our box office on 0131 650 4673, visiting at www.eusalive.co.uk or on the door. Wednesday 14 March The City Sings 19:30 to 20:45. Free. Join Hermitage Park Priary School performing songs from around the world. This one-off, free event also offers you the chance to hear a new commission by composer Dee Isaacs and 300 instruments designed by Victor Gama. The City Sings is presented in collaboration with University of Edinburgh and is part of Stories of the World: Sounds Global. National Museum of Scotland, Chambers Street, Edinburgh 15 – 17 March Beauty and The Beast. Discover the magic that can happen when you look beneath the surface with Northern Ballet’s new Beauty & the Beast at Edinburgh Festival Theatre. Box Office: 0131 529 6000 Book Online: www.fctt.org.uk. Tickets: £12 - £32 Friday 16th March I Love My Mum! Artroom 32 are holding Mother's Day Workshops. Make the special person in your life a unique gift they will treasure forever. For more information please call Louise: 0131 553 6798/07931 513 815. Email: info@artroom32.co.uk or check out website: www.artroom32.co.uk
Fit for a Queen! 7 – 9 & 14 – 16 April (6 days) 11am – 3pm Discover kings and queens that dressed to impress! Try on clothes from the past and get inspired to make your own fashion accessories
26 FAMILIES EDINBURGH ISSUE 71
17 March Polwarth Nearly New Sale 11-1pm Polwarth Church, Polwarth Terrace. All ages of Children’s Clothes & Toys, Nursery Equipment, Maternity Wear, High Chairs, Buggies, Pushchairs, Garden Toys ... and much more! Raising money for Polwarth Church and Hopscotch Children’s Charity. Full Sale Details at www.nearlynewsale.org.uk Saturday 17th March Wilderness Craft Come along for a full day of activities to learn the crafts of Friction Fire Making, Making your own Cordage (Rope), Shelter Building, Making Clay Blobsters and Nature Games outside. From 10am-4pm which will take place outside in the quarry. Suitable for Age 7+. Booking Essential. Price £28 per head ( packed lunch and change of clothing required) Honeypot Ceramics, based at EICA Ratho. www.honeypotceramics.com 17th March Map Reading Old and New 10 – 11.30am. Find out about maps new and old of Newhailes Estate and also learn about Map reading. There is an annual fee of £10 for NTS Detectives. For more information on any aspect of the Newhailes NTS Detectives, contact: Stuart Whittaker, Lothian Area Ranger: 0844 493 2124, 07748 766 794. Email: lothianranger@nts.org.uk Saturday 17 March 3 – 5pm Mother’s Day Presents. Decorate a photo frame, a pen pot, or a jewellery box and make a lovely present for your mum! £10 per person, age 5+. The Imagination Workshop, 136 Marchmont Road, Edinburgh. 0131 466 0148
& About our website www.familiesedinburgh.co.uk Saturday 17th March Make a Mother’s Day Gift Drop into the Honeypot Ceramics at anytime and they’ll help you make a lovely gift for Mother’s Day. Based at EICA, Ratho. 0131 333 6348 Saturday 17- Sunday 18 March Wild and Wonderful World of Scottish Plants Plantlife Scotland explores the flowers, mosses, lichens and fungi that make up our fantastic flora. Come along and find out more about what is growing around us. With Plantlife Scotland. 1.00 pm — 4.00 pm. Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh. Real Life Science Studio, John Hope Gateway. For ages 5+ Saturday 17 & Sunday 18 March Fascinating Mummies: A Slice of Life Egypt. 11:00 & 14.00. Free, (drop-in). Our new character, A Victorian Egyptologist, is just back from another expedition. See what he brought back and hear his tales of burial, tombs and curses. National Museum of Scotland, Chambers Street, Edinburgh Saturday 17 and Sunday 18 March Pyramid Challenge. Free (drop -in) 12.30. Could you build a pyramid? Try out pyramid designs, or help our guest expert, David Lightbody, build a giant pyramid out of cardboard boxes. Part of National Science and Engineering Week 2012. National Museum of Scotland, Chambers Street, Edinburgh 18th March Mothering Sunday at HoneyPot Ceramics Come along to the studio at any time on Mothering Sunday. You can select to make anything you like as a special gift ……we have beautiful vases, trinket boxes, heart plates or lovely fragrances to make bath bombs, lip balms or soaps. Have fun making something together and then treating your Mum to a lovely cream tea at our special price of £2.50 – now doesn’t that sound delicious? Booking Essential. www.honeypotceramics.com Based at EICA, Ratho. 0131 333 6348 18th March Mothering Sunday at Potter Around Bring your mum to the studio - you can enjoy some time together and mum gets a £5 discount. Find out more online at www.potteraround.co.uk. Potter Around, Overton Farm, Kirknewton, West Lothian, 01506 238961 chat@potteraround.co.uk Sunday 18 March Talking Trees Storytelling. Let the Talking Trees transport you to another place with their stories from around the world. For ages 5+ 2.00 pm - 3.30 pm. Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh. Patrick Geddes Room, First Floor, John Hope Gateway Sunday 18th March The Jack & Jill Market 10.30am – 1.30pm 60 stalls bursting with quality, nearly-new baby & kids clothes, cots, toys, buggies, bikes, and all the rest (0-9 yrs) £1 Adult Meadowbank Leisure Centre, London Rd, Edinburgh, EH6 7AE To book a stall visit: www.jackandjillmarket.co.uk Sunday 18th March Mother’s Day Event at Edinburgh Zoo. Head along to Edinburgh Zoo this Mother’s Day for a tasty treat and an afternoon of fun arts and crafts. Children visiting on Sunday 18th March will have the opportunity to attend one of our fantastic jewellery workshops and make something special for Mum! Alternatively, why not treat her to a delicious Afternoon Tea in the Mansion House? Edinburgh Zoo, 134 Corstorphine Road, Edinburgh EH12 6TS 0131 314 0300 Normal Zoo admission charges apply Sunday 18 March Bags of Art 2 – 4pm for ages 4 - 12. Collect a bag of activities from the art station to help your family explore the collection and create your own artworks. Led by artists Tessa Asquith-Lamb and Louise Fraser. Supported by the Friends of the National Galleries of Scotland. Gallery of Modern Art Tuesday 20 March Tiny Tales 10am & 11.30am (40mins). £6 per child. Age 6mths-2yrs. Spring is in the air and the Garden Guzzler is hungry again! Join Sylvia Troon and her garden fairyfolk for songs, rhymes and weathery adventures! Scottish Storytelling Centre, High Street, Edinburgh
23rd March Bumpathon for Sport Relief. A group of professional Scottish face painters (part of a UK team) will attempt to paint as many pregnant ladies and their baby bumps as possible, in one day! Help the Sportybumps Team break their £10,000 target! For more information on how you can be involved, venue details in Edinburgh and to book your slot, call: Lynn Fraser 07775 861075 / Annie Davis 07712 175142 Team page: http://my.sportrelief.com/sponsor/sportybumps Friday 23 March Sparkle For Alex Gala Dinner at Edinburgh Corn Exchange. Tickets are £60 per person (price includes drinks reception, 3 course dinner, half bottle of wine and band). Auction prizes include, accommodation packages at Stobo, Gleneagles and Turnberry; signed Pele shirt, Real Madrid shirt, Hearts football and Celtic FC mascot slot; jewellery from Hamilton and Inches; signed Red Hot Chilli Peppers Guitar; signed Martin Kaymer driver, Rafael Nadal tennis racquet, Mo Farah running vest and Sir Chris Hoy skinsuit. For more information about the event or to donate to Alex's fund please see www.sparkleforalex.co.uk
27 FAMILIES EDINBURGH ISSUE 71
& About All these events and more can be found on Saturday 24 March Marchmont Playgroup Nearly New Sale 3pm - 5pm. Sale of quality used toys and children's clothes. Tea, coffee and home baking. Admission by donation, everyone welcome. Marchmont St Giles Church, 1A Kilgraston Road, Edinburgh www.marchmontplaygroup.org.uk Saturday 24th March Nearly New Sale 10.30 - 12.00. St. Stephen's Comely Bank Church Hall (Corner of Comely Bank Road/East Fettes Avenue). £1 entry, Cash only purchases at the sale. 24 March Second Hand Bike Sale At The Edinburgh Steiner School. 9:30 - 12 am. Just in time for spring and the new bike season ahead we are having another of our successful second hand bike sales with children s and adult bikes, tricycles as well as biking equipment for sale. Free bike maintencance offered at the same time! Bring your bikes and equipment which you want us to sell for you from 8:30 onwards or come and buy from 9:30 – 12. For further information please contact the school office 0131- 337 3410. Edinburgh Steiner School, 60 Spylaw Road, Edinburgh EH10 5BR
A course for women returning to work Are you looking to return to work after a break? If you want to feel confident about relaunching your career, develop your computer skills and update your CV and interview technique, then The PCT Partnership's 'Women Returning to Work' course, starting in September 2012, is for you. The 10 week course is funded by Skills Development Scotland and is free if you live in Edinburgh/Lothians.
Call The PCT Partnership on 0131 622 6240 or email training@thepctpartnership.co.uk
Saturday 24 - Sunday 25 March Children's Spring Flower Show. The children's Eco-Schools daffodil competition is again part of the RCHS Spring Flower Show. Come and see the floral displays and get involved in handson activities. 11.00 am — 5.00 pm. Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh. Real Life Science Studio, John Hope Gateway Saturday 24 - Sunday 25 March Fabulous Food Fashion. Let the patterns, colours and textures of Scotland's diverse food inspire you to make a unique piece of jewellery from a wide range of recycled materials. 1.30 pm - 4.00 pm. All ages. Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh. Patrick Geddes Room, upstairs in the John Hope Gateway Sunday 25 March Meet the Ancestors - Storytelling (Ages 4-12) 2pm, 2.45pm & 3.30pm (30 mins). Join storyteller Marie-Louise Cochrane in our Blazing with Crimson exhibition and hear some truly tremendous tartan tales. Scottish National Portrait Gallery Sunday 25 March The Sainsbury’s Sport Relief Mile. Sport Relief is inviting the public to enter the Sainsbury’s Sport Relief Mile in Edinburgh, Highlights will be beamed out to living rooms across the UK in the BBC’s Mile Show on the Sunday evening - so anyone who enters the Mile might make it onto the telly too! Enter at www.sportrelief.com. Monday 26 March Bookings Open for The Bank of Scotland Imaginate Festival 2012. Join the mailing list to receive your copy of the Festival programme at www.imaginate.org.uk. Tickets will be available from the Traverse Theatre Box Office: 0131 228 1404 or online at www.traverse.co.uk.
Science Birthday Parties! • Invitations • Fun and exciting activities • Unique party games with prizes • Fabulous science party box to take away Ideal for age 6 – 12 Minimum 10 children £9.00 per head. A local hall is ideal although smaller parties can be delivered in your house
www.thinkscience.co.uk info@thinkscience.co.uk 07754 219877 thinkScience Ltd birthday parties are out of this world!
28 FAMILIES EDINBURGH ISSUE 71
Thursday 29 March New, Improved Duncan Place Nappuccinos. Your ‘one stop’ event to meet all your real nappy needs. Get free advice and information from parents with lots of experience of using real nappies, see different types of nappies and if you’d like, apply for a trial pack or lending kit. Parents will also be able to: • Place orders and buy new nappies from a range of manufacturers, in partnership with Little Froggies, an independent nappy retailer. Brands available are Lollipop; Little Lambs; Tots Bots; Blueberry; Nature Babies; Bright Bots; Wonderoos and GenY. • Buy great value second hand nappies. • Buy nappy accessories. • Drop off second hand nappy donations. A proportion of sales generated from all items will create income for the Real Nappy Project, to help to continue with the services provided. Drop in between 10am and 11.30am, Duncan Place Resource Centre, Duncan Place (just off Duke St, Leith), Edinburgh, EH6 8HW
30 March – 15 April Edinburgh International Science Festival. www.sciencefestival.co.uk 0844 557 2686 30 March – 15 April Science Festival InMotion Edinburgh International Science Festival returns to the National Museum of Scotland to bring science to life with engaging and entertaining workshops, talks, exhibitions and demonstrations. Packed with hands-on science, sporting chances and the opportunity to bust a move. Pick up a brochure from the Museum or visit www.sciencefestival.co.uk 31 March – 14 April Science Festival at City Art Centre. Open 9.30am – 4.30pm. Oozing with exciting circuits, scary skeletons, racing robots and manic monsters. www.sciencefestival.co.uk 0844 557 2686 Saturday 31 March All In A Spin 10.30am - 12.30pm or 1.30pm - 3.30pm. There are lots of spinning tops in the museum - why not have a go at making your own. Decorate it with bright colours, and watch the pattern change as it turns. Suitable for ages 5+; please note that children may not be left unattended. Drop in session - booking not required. Museum of Childhood
& About our website www.familiesedinburgh.co.uk Saturday 31 March WWF’s Earth Hour 8.30pm. A chance to get involved in a global phenomenon, join hundreds of millions of people turning off their lights for one hour on the same night, all across the planet. Sign up at www.wwf.org.uk.
Monday 2 – 9 April Science Festival Stories. Packed with tall tales, science stories and fabulous yarns. Scottish Storytelling Centre, High Street, Edinburgh. www.sciencefestival.co.uk 0844 557 2686 Monday 2 April Oops! Another Bright Idea 10.30am (1hr) £4 For ages 7+. What do crashing and flying, the shocking truth of light bulbs, and sharp teeth & animal intelligence have in common? Come on a journey of scientific discovery and invention with storyteller Linda Bandelier and discover how mishaps become bright ideas. Scottish Storytelling Centre Monday 2 - Friday 6 April Edible Gardening Seasonal Advice 1.00 pm - 3.00 pm. Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh. John Hope Gateway Ground Floor. Fancy growing your own vegetables but don't know where to start? Pop in for some friendly seasonal advice from the edible gardening team. Find us in the Scottish Science on a Plate exhibition. Part of the Edible Gardening Project funded by the People's Postcode Lottery. Also Monday 9 – Friday 13 April
31 March – 9 April Science Festival on a Plate. Open 10am – 5pm. Ten days of cooking, tasting and scientific discovery. Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh www.sciencefestival.co.uk 0844 557 2686 Saturday 31st March – Monday 16th April Easter Eggcitement. Meet lambs, chicks and other new arrivals on the farm, hunt for hidden eggs, and crack the clues in the springtime trail. Make Easter bonnets, and rabbit masks, and join in with other seasonal silliness. With additional attractions over the four days of Easter (6th - 9th April), including our famous plastic duck race along the mill lade. Almond Valley Heritage Trust, Millfield, Livingston, West Lothian EH54 7AR. 01506 414957 www.almondvalley.co.uk 1st April April Fool’s Day Celebrate April Fool’s Day at Edinburgh Zoo and keep an eye out for some mysterious goings on around the park! Edinburgh Zoo, 134 Corstorphine Road, Edinburgh EH12 6TS 0131 314 0300 Normal Zoo admission charges apply 1st April Family Golf Day at The Hermitage We are holding a team golf tournament for juniors, seniors and mixed groups. There will be golf games and activities for beginners and pros of all ages, crafts and home baking, a nature trail and much more. If you would like more information please contact us at 0131 447 5700 or at Danielle.Trudeau@aiscotland.org.uk. 1st April Art Cart Ages 4-12. 2 – 4pm Free drop-in art activities for all the family led by artists Tessa Asquith-Lamb and Louise Fraser. Each month, there's something new to create inspired by different works from the collection or exhibitions. Supported by the Friends of the National Galleries of Scotland. Scottish National Gallery
Tuesday 3 April From Trees to Galaxies: Wonder Tales from Science 10.30am (1hr) £4 for ages 5+. The universe is an amazing place, so come explore and its mysteries through story! Storyteller Alette J Willis has worked with local scientists to develop original stories for children. In this session she mixes these scientific wonder tales with ancient creation myths. Scottish Storytelling Centre 5th April – Really, really small animal tracks. We will go looking for really small animal tracks at Newhailes and make prints of our own. Nature Nippers (see 1st March for more info). Call 0844 493 2124 or email lothianranger@nts.org.uk for more information.
7 – 9 & 14 – 16 April (6 days) Fit for a Queen! 11:00 15:00. Explore the Palace with our fashion focused trail and find out which king and queen dressed to impress! Make your way to the Palace Family room where you can discover what was fashionable on the streets of Edinburgh and where the townsfolk got their clothes from, dress up like Mary, Queen of Scots or Lord Darnley and make your own fashion accessories to take home! Palace of Holyroodhouse and The Queen’s Gallery, Edinburgh. All family activities are free with standard admission to the Palace/Gallery. Easter Sunday Chocolate Easter Egg Hunt. Come along on Easter Sunday to make your own Bunny Ears and take part in the great egg hunt. www.honeypotceramics.com for more details. Based at EICA Ratho Sunday 8 April Portrait Detectives! 2 – 4pm for ages 4 – 12. Become a Portrait Detective for the afternoon! Collect your kit, follow clues and help solve mysteries involving characters from Scottish history. Supported by the friends of the National Galleries of Scotland. Scottish National Portrait Gallery Monday 9 April Mac-a-Story: Champion of Champions. 10.30am (1hr) £4 for ages 5+. Join Mac-aStory for a mythological Olympics, featuring high-energy stories, songs and drama about the gods and heroes who have inspired sporting triumph throughout the ages. Join in to learn how the body enables these sporting achievements! Scottish Storytelling Centre, High Street, Edinburgh
Thursday 5 April Eureka! Ancient Greece and its Brilliant Scientific Discoveries 10.30am (1hr) £4 for ages 3+. A celebration of science from ancient Greece! Storyteller and puppeteer Carolyne Latham and her friendly little dog invite everyone to go back in time to discover the stories behind the science. Scottish Storytelling Centre
Tuesday 10 April Lapin wants an Easter Carrot. 11am & 3pm (40mins) £8/£6 For ages 3-5 yrs. After a successful Fringe run, join Tania Czajka and Lapin for a puppet show about a French rabbit who really wants a carrot for Easter. How will he get one? Could the Easter Bunny help him…?! A fun tabletop puppet show with French keywords carefully scattered throughout, creating a story for all budding young French speakers and Lapin lovers. Scottish Storytelling Centre
Saturday 7th and Sunday 8th April Easter Weekend Event at Edinburgh Zoo. Head to Edinburgh Zoo for an egg-stravaganza of a weekend this Easter! We have a host of fun and exciting activities planned, including an Easter Egg Hunt with our panda mascots, Tian Tian and Yang Guang! Edinburgh Zoo, 134 Corstorphine Road, Edinburgh EH12 6TS. 0131 314 0300 Normal Zoo admission charges apply
10th April Spring has sprung, 11-12.30pm. Spring is on its way so let’s find out about some of the signs of spring. We will also play spring themed games on the estate. Children £3, accompanying adults free, booking is essential. National Trust for Scotland, Newhailes, Newhailes Road, Musselburgh, East Lothian, EH21 6RY. Booking and more information on 0844 493 2124 or lothianranger@nts.org.uk
Easter Egg hunt Easter Egg hunt with lots of fun and games over the Easter weekend. Our rural setting is a great place for a day out with the family over the Easter break and we look forward to welcoming you. Find out more online at www.potteraround.co.uk. Potter Around, Overton Farm, Kirknewton, West Lothian, 01506 238961 chat@potteraround.co.uk
Wednesday 11 April Potato Needs a Bath. 3pm (35mins) £8/£6 for 3-6 yrs. Superstar storyteller and puppet master Shona Reppe (Cinderella, New Vic 2009) gets giggles and grins galore in this light-hearted, gentle and highly visual show that’s perfect for the very young (and young at heart). Scottish Storytelling Centre
29 FAMILIES EDINBURGH ISSUE 71
& About Thursday 12 April The Selfish Giant 3pm (40mins) £8/£6 for ages 3-7 yrs. Based on Oscar Wilde’s much-loved children’s story, The Selfish Giant is performed in the Folding Theatre Puppet Company’s distinctive and beautiful style. Scottish Storytelling Centre Thursday 12 & Friday 13 April Edinburgh International Science Festival - Super Science City! 11am & 2pm (45 mins) For ages 4 – 12. Join Mac-a-story for some Enlightenment storytelling, songs and fun and learn about the dawn of the modern scientific age. Supported by Edinburgh World Heritage. Scottish National Portrait Gallery 13 – 15 April Bang Goes the Theory Live. Shows at 11.30am and 4pm. Join the team for brand new, actionpacked show as they test, stretch and explode science live on stage. Usher Hall, Edinburgh www.sciencefestival.co.uk Saturday 14 April Greenbank Scout Group Annual Jumble Sale. One of the best Jumble Sales in Edinburgh Four Halls, all full of bargains. 9.30 AM – 12 noon. Admission £2. Greenbank Church, Braidburn Terrace, Edinburgh, EH10 6ES Saturday 14 April Mrs Doig's City of Genius. 11am, 12pm, 2pm & 3pm (30 mins) for ages 4 - 12Hear all the Enlightenment gossip. Supported by Edinburgh World Heritage. Drop-in Events. Scottish National Portrait Gallery 14th April Bird Watching at the lagoons 10-12.00pm Discover what birds are at Musselburgh lagoons and their interesting calls. Plus we will find out about the fish that are in the river Esk. There is an annual fee of £10 for NTS Detectives. For more information on any aspect of the Newhailes NTS Detectives, contact: Stuart Whittaker, Lothian Area Ranger, Tel: 0844 493 2124, 07748 766 794. Email: lothianranger@nts.org.uk Sunday 15th April The Jack & Jill Market . 10.30am – 1.30pm 60 stalls bursting with quality, nearly-new baby & kids clothes, toys, buggies, bikes, equipment, etc (0-9 yrs). Meadowbank Leisure Centre, London Rd, Edinburgh, EH6 7AE. To book a stall visit: www.jackandjillmarket.co.uk Sunday 15 April Talking Trees Storytelling . 2.00 pm 3.30 pm. Let the Talking Trees transport you to another place with their stories from around the world. For ages 5+. Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh. Patrick Geddes Room, First Floor, John Hope Gateway Sunday 15 April Bags of Art 2 – 4pm for ages 4 - 12. Collect a bag of activities from the art station to help your family explore the collection and create your own artworks. Led by artists Tessa Asquith-Lamb and Louise Fraser. Supported by the Friends of the National Galleries of Scotland. Gallery of Modern Art
30 FAMILIES EDINBURGH ISSUE 71
Tuesday 17 April Tiny Tales 10am & 11.30am (40mins). £6 per child for ages 6mths – 2yrs. The Centre’s monthly storytelling session for teeny tots. Scottish Storytelling Centre, High Street, Edinburgh Wednesday 18 April Blackhall Library Nappuccinos. Informal, free session where parents can pop in for a cuppa, see the various real nappy options and speak to parents that have used real nappies, for practical advice and information. Drop in between 1.00pm and 2.30pm, Blackhall Library, 56 Hillhouse Road, Edinburgh, EH4 5EG. Saturday 21st April Wilderness Craft See 17th March for more info www.honeypotceramics.com Saturday 21st April Free Picture Kelpies Storytelling Day. Hairy Highland cows, clowning puffins and magic grannies are just some of the colourful characters you’ll meet at these free storytelling sessions for 3 to 6-year-olds. Join the Picture Kelpies authors and illustrators as they read from their books and bring their characters alive! This funfilled event celebrates the latest additions to the Picture Kelpies range of original Scottish picture books. Copies of all the books will be available for sale and signing. Why not enjoy lunch at the family-friendly Storytelling Centre café before, or after, your session? To book your FREE ticket contact Floris Books at floris@florisbooks.co.uk or call 0131 337 2372. The last booking date is Friday 20th April. 10.30am (30mins); 11.30am (30mins); 1.30pm (30mins); 2.30pm (30mins) For 3 to 6-year olds accompanied by an adult. Scottish Storytelling Centre, 43-45 High Street, Edinburgh EH1 1SR Sunday 22 April Meet the Ancestors (Ages 4-12) 24pm Jump into the world of the Jacobites using costumes, props and lots of imagination. Scottish National Portrait Gallery Sunday 22 April The Jack & Jill Market 10.30am-1.30pm 40 stalls bursting with quality nearlynew baby & kids clothes, cots, toys, buggys, bikes and all the rest (0-9 yrs) £1 Adults. West Lothian College, Almondvale Crescent, Livingston EH54 7EP To book a stall visit: www.jackandjillmarket.co.uk Thursday 26 April New, Improved Duncan Place Nappuccinos. Your ‘one stop’ event to meet all your real nappy needs. Get free advice and information from parents with lots of experience of using real nappies, see different types of nappies and if you’d like, apply for a trial pack or lending kit. (See Thursday 29 March for more information). Drop in between 10am and 11.30am, Duncan Place Resource Centre, Duncan Place (just off Duke St, Leith), Edinburgh, EH6 8HW
27 – 29 April The Scottish Baby and Toddler Show. Scotland’s biggest baby & toddler event is back at the SECC, Glasgow. Opening hours are 10am – 5pm daily. *Advance tickets are £6. On the door tickets are £10/£38 for a group of 4. All tickets include brochure RRP £2. Free entry for under 16s. Further information and tickets are available through 0844 395 4000 or by visiting www.thescottishbabyandtoddlershow.com Saturday 28th April Save the Frogs Day Leap to Edinburgh Zoo on Saturday 28th of April for Save the Frogs Day! This is a great opportunity to learn about amphibians, reptiles and pond life and quiz our colleagues from the ‘Froglife’ project on all things frog-related! There will be lots of fun activities and games taking place throughout the day for visitors to enjoy. Edinburgh Zoo, 134 Corstorphine Road, Edinburgh EH12 6TS. 0131 314 0300 Normal Zoo admission charges apply Saturday 28 April Telling Tales Storytelling Competition 2pm (2hrs) Under 16s Competition for young storytellers under 16 to flex their raconteur vocal chords and share their tales, with a grand prize for the best tale teller! Contact Tim Porteus for more details timporteus@hotmail.com. Scottish Storytelling Centre, High Street, Edinburgh Saturday 28 - Sunday 29 April Peat Free Gardening 1.00 pm - 4.00 pm. Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh. Real Life Science Studio, John Hope Gateway. Come along to find out how you can grow your own flowers, fruit and vegetables using peat-free products. Small changes by amateur gardeners can make a big contribution to preserving peat bogs and protecting the environment for future generations. With Garden for Life and Scottish Allotment and Garden Society. May 4th Fettes College Sporting Talent Day Is your son or daughter a real sporting star? Are they passionate about learning new skills and developing their sporting talents? For the third year running, we will be bringing together sporty boys and girls aged 10 or 11 for a fun-filled day dedicated to sport, sporting skills and developing talent. Expert coaching, state of the art facilities, nutritional advice and a huge amount of fun are some of the highlights of the day! If you would like to join us, please email g.gray@fettes.com and she will be happy to provide further information about this free event.
31 FAMILIES EDINBURGH ISSUE 71
Copyright Š Families Magazine 2000. 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. Colour transparencies and any other original materials submitted for publication are sent at owner’s risk and, while every care is taken, neither Families Edinburgh nor its agents accept liability for loss or damage. Families Edinburgh is part of the Families group, established in 1990 and headed by Families South West. All franchised magazines in the group are independently owned and operated under licence. Copyright Š on all artwork designed by Families shall remain with Families or contributor.