Families Edinburgh March/April 2013

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ISSUE 77 March / April 2013

Dora adventures into the capital this April (King’s Theatre Edinburgh)

Our qualified teachers create individual tutoring programmes for your child, using proven Kip McGrath methods.

Childcare Agency YOU CAN PAY OUR FEES IN CHILDCARE VOUCHERS Our Services Include • Maternity Night/Day Care • Au pairs

• Sleep Consultancy • Postnatal Depression

• Nannies • Babysitters

Tax credit and Childcare Voucher Registration

0131 659 5065

leigh@butterflypersonnel.co.uk

www.butterflypersonnel.co.uk

www.familiesedinburgh.co.uk

Email - editor@familiesedinburgh.co.uk

Tel. 0131 622 0405

2 FAMILIES EDINBURGH ISSUE 77

What’s Inside 3–7

News and Views

8 – 11

Clubs and Classes News

12

Second Time Lucky?

The Natural Fertility Centre

14 – 15 Reproflexology Anne Young 16

Tips For Pregnancy Knotstressed

17

Naming Ceremonies

18 – 19 Real Nappies The Real Nappy Project 20

Classes for You and Your Under 2

21

Potty Training Help Dry Like Me

22

Is Your Child’s Apology Sincere?

The Parent Centre

23

Baby and Child Health

24

Auditory Processing Disorder Jane Oliver

25

How to Stop Your Child Waking in The Night Kathryn Mewes

26 – 29 A Juggling Act resolve 31 – 39 Out and About Get in Touch

Editor: Sarah Adair editor@familiesedinburgh.co.uk 0131 622 0405 Keep up to date at www.familiesedinburgh.co.uk Follow us on Twitter @familiesedinbur Find us on Facebook Designer: kdickson7@gmail.com

Communities and Families Fund If you need funding to help give families and children the best start in life then it’ s easier than you think! The Communities and Families Fund is a grants programme funded jointly by the Scottish Government and the Big Lotter y Fund in Scotland. The fund will support local projects that help families and communities give children the best start in life.

Organisations can apply for a grant of between £250 and £10,000 for a 12 month project that will meet at least one of the following outcomes: • Improve the quality of life of children (pre-birth to 8) through greater access to early learning, play and child and maternal health support • Enable communities to shape and deliver support for families What types of projects can be funded?

Projects that benefit children, or parents and families of children, who are 8 years and under.

Who can apply? You can apply for funding if you are a voluntar y and community organisation, a statutory body or a community council.

If you’re interested in applying and with decisions in just 6 weeks, please visit: www.biglotteryfund.org.uk/communitiesandfamiles or call on 0300 123 7110

Remedial Sports Massage Exhausted from working and running after the kids? Do you long to switch off and relax? Local mum and remedial sports massage therapist, Louise Armour understands perfectly the demands on parents and how difficult the work/life balance can be.

“I am finding more and more clients suffering from work related stress, shoulder tension and back pain. Parents are working longer hours, worrying about job security and are often unable to switch off.

Massage calms the ner vous system, reduces pain and muscle spasms. It helps to relieve restless and insomnia, improves circulation and lowers blood pressure. It`s important for parents to look after themselves, so that family life is more fun”.

Louise has clinics in Bruntsfield and Holyrood. To make an appointment call 07964 595589 or email louise.armour@ live.co.uk quoting Families Edinbur gh.

First 60 min consultation and massage £25.

The Puppet Animation Festival is the UK’s largest and longest established annual performing arts event for children – since 2000 over 190,000 people have attended. Held in venues across Scotland in March and April, offers children and their families opportunities to be transported to magical worlds of make - believe. www.puppetanimationfestival.org

Could you become a host family?

The UK remains one of the most popular destinations for International students and boarding schools become their second home. However, even Houseparents need a break and sometimes schools close their doors for one or two (exeat) weekends ever y term and of course they all break up at half terms which can be one or two weeks long.

Bright World Guardianships Limited is one of the few Guardianship companies in the UK to be accredited by AEGIS (The Association for Educational Guardianship of International Students). The company was established in 2000 and takes on the role of filling in the gaps in the academic year and ensuring that students are safe, comfortable and happy during their times out of school.

“When all the other children’ s parents are waiting for them at the school gate, our students from overseas can be assured tha t their UK host family will be there waiting too, making their entire UK experience a positive one. ” Lana Foster, Managing Director .

“Although the Host family role is a paid one and does provide a valuable extra income, we feel, as we hope you will too that it is much more than this.”

For further information, or if you are interested in learning more about becoming a Host Family , please get in touch with Lindsay Tribe, Host Family Recruitment Manager lindsay@ brightw orld.co.uk, call 01273 835745 or complete the enquir y form on our website; www.brightworld.co.uk/education/host_family.asp

New for DOODLES - Decopatch!

Doodles have a lovely selection papers to cover ceramic items or their collection of new paper mache items. Great for gifts needed same day or if you are not feeling confident to paint! Items start at £4.50 and include all materials.Additional paper can be bought at £1per sheet. Doodles, 29 Marchmont Crescent 0131 229 1399

NEXT ISSUE MAY/JUNE Cover Information Friday 5 - Sunday 7 April Dora the Explorer LIVE! Search for the City of Lost Toys Dora has lost her teddy bear Osito, and the search is on to retrieve him!

Kings Theatre Edinburgh. Box Office 0131 529 6000* Groups (8+) 0131 529 6005 www.edtheatres.com *Bkg Fee

2013 SUMMER CAMPS & ACTIVITIES BOOKINGS TAKEN NOW

0131 622 0405 3 FAMILIES EDINBURGH ISSUE 77

The award winning Dunbar SciFest is back for 2013!

Nile Grove Community Playgroup

The Parent Council of Dunbar Primar y School is organising its 3r d amazing week end-long science festival for families in Edinbur gh, the Lothians, Borders and beyond. This year’s extended programme is fantastic, with over 40 event providers delivering an incredible range of science shows, workshops, drop-in sessions, talks and films.

There are events to suit teenagers and even storytelling for the wee ones. Some of the shows are presented in British Sign Language and all the shows will be BSL/English interpreted.

Taking place over the weekend of Saturday 16 March (10am – 5pm) and Sunday 17 March 2013 (10am - 5pm) in the John Muir Campus of Dunbar Primar y School and the new Bleachingfield Community Centre. Family tickets cost just £10. Last summer, Lammermuir Music Festival, Lennoxlove Book Festival, Fringe by the Sea and Dunbar SciFest submitted a joint application to Creative Scotland’s Creative Places Awards. The East Lothian Festivals were delighted to be shortlisted with Orkney & Kilmarnock for the categor y: Under 100,000 residents.

Nile Grove Community Playgroup provides childcare for 21⁄4 5 year olds in a fun and caring environment. A registered charity playgroup based in Greenbank Church, Morningside that has been successfully running since 1984. “We provide many activities including arts and crafts, singing and dancing and there are daily opportunities for fresh air and exercise.We offer delicious healthy mid morning snacks sometimes baked by the children themselves.”

Playgroup is run by the Teacher Manager alongside the parent committee, who also organise fundraising and social events. The 3 permanent, dedicated members of staff have a wealth of experience working with children as well as being parents themselves. www.nilegroveplaygroup.co.uk or call 07505 366 580 during playgroup hours.

Blackhall Nursery

Bob Hutcheson Garden Services

Is your son or daughter a budding sports star?

A community-based Nurser y and a partner provider nursery to Edinburgh Council, providing pre-school education for children in Blackhall and surrounding areas. Learning through Play forms the basis of the pre- school education they provide. It incorporates many familiar play activities such as crafts, role-play, construction, music and movement, set in the context of the Scottish Government's Curriculum for Excellence. You can place your child’s name on the Nursery waiting list from their 2nd birthday b y downloading an application for m at www.blackhallnursery.co.uk or b y phoning 0131 332 8296.

Bob Hutcheson Garden Services is a new business formed with a view to providing a friendly , reliable and affordable way of maintaining your garden. Whether you need any or all of your grass cut, hedges trimmed, borders maintained through pruning, planting or soil analysis then Bob will be glad to take care of those tasks for you. Bob has been maintaining gardens for a number of years and enjoys it so much he decided to branch out (no pun intended) and offer his assistance and experience. “Late February/early March is when I normally start to tidy , inspect and prune in readiness for the coming Spring – borders and hedges – and then prepare the lawn for the coming season.”

Call Bob on 0131 558 7673 or 07764 768839

On Friday 3rd May, Fettes College will once again be running their Sporting Talent Day for sporty boys and girls aged 10 & 11.

This fun- packed day aims to enthuse and inspire while honing skills and nurturing sporting talent.

Enthusiastic coaches will give advice, teach new skills and encourage your son or daughter to achieve the ver y best they can across a range of sports. Like previous years we hope this event will nurture the talents they already have and introduce them to sports they have maybe never tried before as well as getting them involved in some competitive group activities. If you would like further details of this free event, please just email g.gray@fettes.com and she will be happy to help.

Labels4Kids Leading UK based international kids’ labelling specialist Labels4Kids is launc hing their new look website.

The new website makes ordering so much easier and you can even try designing your labels on the site prior to ordering.

The fun site covers labelling for your children, your sport requirements, camping, corporate and even care home items for grandparents. In addition they have a full personalised clothing site with a separate checkout to produce high quality clothing in both climacool and normal ranges. See the full range by ordering at www.labels4kids.com/fam today.

Drop into

Super Tuesday • Worried about rent arrears?

• Need debt advice or housing support?

Bring your kids along!

Our libraries team will keep them entertained while you get help with housing and debt advice.

EVERY TUESDAY

East Neighbourhood Office Between 10am to 1pm

Need our assistance but Tuesdays don’t suit

WE CAN HELP • We provide FREE helpful advice and support at a time that suits you.

• We work with you to help you k eep your home and deal with debt.

Debt?

Welfare Benefits?

Housing Benefits?

Rent Arrears?

Support?

CONTACT US BY PHONE OR EMAIL FOR A CONFIDENTIAL APPOINTMENT East Neighbourhood Office, 101 Niddrie Mains Road, Edinburgh EH16 4DS

Tel: 0131 529 3111

4 FAMILIES EDINBURGH ISSUE 77

Email: eastteam@edinburgh.gov.uk

Birthday Party Update The Imaginate Festiv al is Scotland’ s international festival of perfor ming arts for children and young people and runs from Monday 6 to Monday 13 May at venues across Edinburgh.

Every year the Festival presents the finest selection of shows from Scotland and across the world; each and every one adding their own wonderful character and zest to a programme of exciting and stimulating shows to suit children and adults of every age.

This year's programme includes a one-of-a-kind theatrical experience that mashes up radio drama and comic books from the USA’s Robot Planet and aptly titled ©Kev Harper & D8 The Intergalactic Nemesis - Live-Action Gr aphic Novel - Book One: Target Earth (for everyone 8 and older); Shona Reppe’s award-winning The Curious Scrapbook of Josephine Bean (for everyone 7 and older); Visible Fiction’s swashbuckling The Mark of Zorro (for everyone 5 and older); National Theatre of Scotland’ s delightful The Day I Swapped My Dad For Two Goldfish (for everyone 6 and older) and Maas Theater en Dans’ Wanted: Rabbit – the wonderful story of a rabbit on the run (for everyone 3 – 5)!

Visit Imaginate’s website for full details and how to book your tickets. Tickets go on sale on Monday 18 March 2013. You can also sign up to the mailing list for mor e information or to request a Festival brochure www.imaginate.org.uk

In the January/February issue we had our Gr eat Big, Bursting at the Seams, Birthday Party Guide. So full w as it that ther e was no room for these thr ee entries! Remember you can find the birthday party dir ectory online at www.familiesedinburgh.co.uk too

With Orr Without Gardening Scotland 2013 is a great day out for all the family with something for budding gardeners of ever y age. From fascinating carnivorous plants to mini-pallet gardens made by children, there is plenty for everyone.

Dozens of award-winning nurseries will be packing The New Hopetoun Gardens Floral Hall with fabulous plants while The Barratt Homes Show Gardens will provide you with inspiration for your own plot and The Living Garden allows you to discover new ways of living in harmony with nature.

The kids can run off some steam in The Big Back Garden which is dedicated to family fun.

This year gardening celebrities Alys Fowler and Katie Rushworth will be giving gardeners advice on ever ything from growing fruit for jam to how to create a family-friendly garden.

Gardening Scotland 2013 will take place from Friday, 31 May until Sunday, 2 June at The Royal Highland Centre, Edinburgh.

Advance tickets cost £14 (Fri) or £12 (Sat/Sun), a £2 saving on the gate price.Kids go FREE. Book online at www.gardeningscotland.com where you can also enter the GreenThumb prize draw or call 0131 333 0965 for more information.

Welcome to With Orr Without. Maggie provides lovely cakes for everyone - people that can eat everything and people that can't! Maggi can create a cake suitable for guests with most food allergies or intolerances.

“I am also a mother to two lovely girls and so I thought to combine what I love doing with what else I know very well, so I am hosting cupcake parties for everyone from seven to one hundred!” All you have to do is provide the venue and the party goers.

Maggie can also provide a variety of cold buffet options - from very simple to a little bit fancy. For further infor mation call maggi on 07401060630 or visit her website on withorrwithout.co.uk

Pop Star Birthday Parties – Lamp House Music Lamp House Music have introduced Pop Star Birthday Parties to their repertoire of highly entertaining musical activities, including Music Lessons, Babies & Tots classes and school holiday Music Schools. Pop Star Birthday Parties provide 2 hours of singing and recording fun, giving guests access to their ver y own Rehearsal Studio and Recording Suite. Choosing from thousands of songs they can rehearse with their supplied lyrics and backing tracks until they are ready to record with their dedicated sound engineer who will then mix and master to perfection.

As well as a group photo shoot,party-goers will enjoy party snacks (cake,crisps and juice), and can take away their VIP Passes, 6 CDs with their recorded songs, and a CD of all the day’s photos. Pop Star Birthday Parties are £99 per party - suitable for up to 6 people, age 8+ info@lamphousemusic.co.uk www.lamphousemusic.co.uk Lamp House Music is based in Haddington, East Lothian, just outside Edinburgh easily accessible off the A1.

Angela Watson School of Dance: Fairmilehead, Colinton and Firrhill The school runs ballet classes for 3 years - adults and tap and modern from pre school - adults. We are now running parties on a Saturday afternoon with our fully qualified RAD teacher Hayley Johnston, pick your theme and find your hall and Hayley will come to your party and deliver a dance workshop and games, our amazing starting price for 2013 is £50 for 1 hour and 15 minutes. We can even provide the party bags for a £1 a bag. www.angelawatsonschoolofdance.co.uk

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Science Festival 2013: Get Ready for the Future The Edinburgh International Science Festival will be celebrating its 25th year with two weeks of events from 23 March – 7 April. With interactive events, workshops and explorations happening all over the city you’ll find a great day out for the whole family.

The City Art Centre will be transformed into a science playground, packed with activities for curious minds and you’ll find trails and workshops for all ages at the National Museum of Scotland. St Andrew Square will host a stunning photographic exhibition, Patterns in Nature, and Scotland’s making and crafting community will come together to share their work at the first ever Edinburgh Mini Maker Faire on Sunday 7 April.

Download a programme and book online at www.sciencefestival.co.uk or call the box office on 0844 557 2686.

Kwikdry Carpet and Upholstery Cleaning Eco friendly products choice of machines Carpets deep cleaned and deodorised Dry within 30 mins with Dry Fusion Machine

For Fresh, Clean Carpets call 0131 476 0129 mob 07583853684 We clean both domestic and commercial properties info@kdcleaningedinburgh.co.uk www.kdcleaningedinburgh.co.uk

Cup Cake Parties For ages 7+ to Adult

Maggie can produce cakes that are Egg-Free, Gluten-Free, Wheat-Free, Dairy-Free or Nut-Free.

www.withorrwithout.co.uk Call Maggie on 07401 060630

Beano the Clown Magic, Balloons, Songs & Games -5s & +5s, 1hr & 2 hr,

Tel: 07948-070 569 Web: Beano.theclown.free.fr

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Jack & Jill Market

Blossom Tree Children's Nursery

When local mum of 2, Pauline Macmillan from West Lothian first went along to a Jack & Jill Market as a shopper in July 2011 little did she know that just 18 months later, she would be Company Director. Pauline tells us “I first heard about The Jack & Jill Markets through Facebook just before my daughters 1st Birthday so I thought I would go along to a market to see if I could pick up any bargains and I wasn’t disappointed” Each market has between 40-60 stalls and attracts anywhere from 500 to almost 1000 shoppers.

Recent stallholders have been delighted to make on average £200£300 and shoppers are also leaving with armfuls of goodies having saved themselves a fortune!

Whether you ar e looking for clothes, cots, buggies, bikes, books, toys, games, high chairs, garden toys or in fact anything else for babies and c hildren...you are sure to find it at your local Jac k & Jill Mark et! www.jackandjillmarket.co.uk

Blossom Tree Children's Nursery are really looking forward to doing some wonderful Charity Work this year and have chosen to support one main charity , Yorkhill Children's Foundation in Glasgow. “We have chosen this charity after hearing about the excellent support and care they offer and in particular one families story.”

In September 2011 Steve and Marie Hartley from Edinburgh welcomed their daughter, Caitlin into the wold, however she was born with a rare heart condition in Edinburgh Royal Infirmary and required open heart surgery within the first few weeks to save her life. Caitlyn was treated at Yorkhill Hospital and has had a number of surgeries there since. Yorkhill is an amazing place and treats around 150,000 children from all over Scotland each year.

To raise money to pay for vital medical equipment for the hospital Caitlin's dad Steve has committed to running 2013 kilometres in 2013. For more infor mation, get in touch with us at www.blossomtree.org.uk

Mannafields Christian School City life can mean that most schools host several hundred children. If you worr y that your child might get lost in the crowd, there’s a school in Leith that you might not know about. Mannafields Christian School currently has a school roll of just twenty , which means one-to-one attention and a family feel.

Mannafields offers a distinctive Christian curriculum that meets or exceeds Government standards. Strong values and a loving environment create a safe space for children to learn, studying within flexible class arrangements. The atmosphere is often transformative; one mum commented that she “had her daughter back.” For other children, it’s been a place of healing from academic disengagement or behavioural problems.The school has welcomed pupils from many nationalities and faith backgrounds, including Moslem, Hindu, New Age, Catholic, Protestant and those without faith connections. The school offers classes from P1 to S2. To find out more, visit www.mannafields.org.uk or come along to the Open Day on Satur day 27 April, 1-3 pm at 170 Easter Road.

Super Tuesday

Wee Masons

Every Tuesday morning, representatives from a number of Key organisations across the city come together at the new East Neighbourhood Office to offer practical support to residents who may be experiencing problems with rents arrears, personal debt or problems sustaining their homes.

Informally Known as ‘Super Tuesday’, the drop-in sessions are organised by the East Neighbourhood Rents Team. The Rents Team joined forces with a range of other partners in the area who offer debt advice and it soon emerged that by pooling their resources, the group could make a real difference to those struggling to make ends meet.

Housing and Regeneration manager George Norval explained ‘We realised that if we could create a Tuesday one-stop-shop, we could deal with people’s rent arrears, but also tackle a host of other financial problems, refer customers for tenancy support and housing advice and also signpost to other friendly and helpful local ser vices.

Not only that, but our librar y colleagues volunteered to support the kids who called with their parents with painting, balloon making or rhyme time as we were aware that they can get a bit bored and restless within the inter view rooms. This also takes the pressure off parents who sometimes have to deal with a difficult issue” East Neighbourhood Centre, 101 Niddrie Mains Road, Edinburgh EH16 4DS 0131 529 3111

During National Shoe Fitting Week, as any other day , the expertly trained fitters at Wee Masons will look after your child’s feet. Upbeat styles meet current trends to put a smile on your children's face and footwear fit for purpose on their feet. 90 High Street, Haddington 01620 825600 www.mason-shoes.co.uk

Hatching a Happy Easter.

Don’t miss Maddie & Mark’ s adorable Easter display of live chicks making themselves at home in their windows - you may even get a chance to hold one! Catch them from around March 27th for a week, (it may be worth calling before you visit to see if they’ve hatched).

And, for an added Easter bonus, Maddie & Mark’s Shoes Buckstone are giving away a FREE mini egg with every pair of leather shoes purchased!

Maddie & Mark’s award winning shoe shops have an amazing range of exquisitely made kids’ footwear, with styles to suit ever y season and occasion.The staff are friendly and expertly trained to find the right fit for your little chicken’s feet from cruisers right up to size 41 (UK 7).

Maddie & Mark’s Shoes can be found in Blac khall, Buckstone and Bruntsfield, see www.maddieandmarks.co.uk for more details.

Happy 25th Birthday to Heriothill Nursery!

In May this year they will be celebrating 25 years of providing nurser y care and education in the Bellevue area.. “We have seen many changes over the years but essentially the childrens needs remain the same as always - love, care and lots of fun.” says Charlie Wardill, Nursery Manager. “We pride ourselves on our staff, many of whom have been with us for years but remain enthusiastic, taking on the challenge of new initiatives We have achieved our second Eco Schools Green Flag and Healthy Years Accreditation. Our staff are well qualified and attend regular training to keep abreast of the latest ideas. We are members of the National Day Nurseries Association and amongst other thi ngs we will be taking part in their Healthy Body Happy Me Week in March. Our chef keeps up to date with current thinking on nutrition and provides fresh food daily. Last year we updated our Pre-School Rooms and the children enjoy baking bread every day in their new kitchen.We have plans this Spring to makeover our Two Year Old's Room and outdoor spaces. “ Their central location makes the nurser y easily accessible and they are in Partnership with Edinburgh City Council and accept all Childcare Vouchers. To find out more call 0131 557 9907 or arrange a visit. Heriot Hill Nurser y, 32-34 Heriot Hill Terrace, Edinburgh www.heriothillnursery.com

Explore Learning Explore Learning search for the best young writers in Edinbur gh National Young Writers’ Award 2013 - Judged by bestselling author Cressida Cowell The search is on for the Explore Learning National Young Writer of the Year. Now in its 5th year, these prestigious awards aim to find the best young writers in the UK, and will be judged by bestselling children’s author, Cressida Cowell. The competition is open to children aged up to 14.Entrants are required to submit a story of no more than 500 words, handwritten or typed, based on the theme ‘Around the World’. Entries can be submitted in person to the Explor e Learning centres in Blac khall or Murr ayfield or via the website www .explorelearning.co.uk/ youngwriters from 1 April 2013. The closing date for stories is 3rd June 2013, and full terms and conditions can be found online.

Sleepover under the stars at Scottish National Portrait Gallery This spring, treat your family to a once-in-a-lifetime sleepover experience at the Scottish National Portrait Gallery! Take part in exciting hands-on art activities and a gallery treasure hunt, hear a bedtime story in the cosy library and then settle down for the night in the Great Hall under the magnificent ceiling of stars! Tickets include a delicious ‘midnight’ snack and a reviving hot breakfast!

The sleepover is suitable for children aged 7-11 yrs with accompanying adults (maximum 6 children per adult).

Tickets cost £35 per person, to find out mor e visit: nationalgalleries.org/sleepovers

Treehouse - Great Kids Haircuts & Expertly Fitted Shoes A child’s first hair cut can be a daunting experience (sometimes more for the parent, getting that first curl cut off). The owners of the Treehouse, sisters Kim and Sophie, fully understand and that’ s why they have an extremely friendly child hairdressing ser vice included within this shop. So much so, first haircuts are even rewarded with a special certificate for bravery.

Appointments are essential call 0131 225 1242 and allo w 20 minutes for a haircut.

• Age 6 months – 3yrs - £8.50 • Age 3 – 12yrs - £10.50 The aim of this shop is to cater for each special milestone in your child’ s development. From your child or “little monkeys” first pair of shoes (or even first footprint), learning to swim, starting school or first party, Treehouse is there to give you and your child a helping hand.

Shoes, clothes, books, toys and expert hairdressing ser vice with a flat screen TV to entertain your child, is some of the many ser vices this lovely shop has to offer.

Treehouse offer a large selection of shoes both in the shop and on their website which range from newborn through school age. They also have professionally trained staff with extensive knowledge on fitting shoes and foot care. And if this isn’t enough, they also offer a loyalty card for shoes which means all children get 40% off their 6th pair of shoes and lasts a year .

Treehouse, 10 - 12 Hamilton Place, Stockbridge

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TUMBLETOTS EAST

DANCE FOR ALL

Tumbletots East have started a new class on a Tuesday morning at the Cluny Centre for children from 2 to 5 years to cope with demand, so please call Jo on 01875 819966 or email her on joletelier.lobos@virgin.net if you would like to come for a trial session.

At Dance For All, established in 1985, pupils aged 2 1⁄2 - 18yrs are nurtured to excel and enjoy the finest dance genres, including RAD Ballet, ISTD Tap, SDS Flamenco, Jazz and Contemporar y. Principal Director, Tracy Hawkes, leads an inspirational faculty of staff in over 70 weekly child, teen & adult classes (beginners to advanced), such as the popular Drop-In Ballet. Go to their Spring Fling show on the 22nd & 23rd March to see the superbly high standards of their senior pupils and professional students. Did you know that dance can improve physical, cognitive and emotional health? Find out more on their new website www.danceforall.co.uk - browse timetables, testimonials, booking forms and photo galleries or call the office on 0131 226 5533.

NEW MUSIC BUGS CLASSES A NEW class is now running in Restalrig ever y Wednesday at 10am in McLaren Hall for mixed ages.

There is also a new Baby Bugs class (0-12m) running every Thursday at 1.45pm at the Calton Centre. Contact Hilary via hilar y@ musicbugs.co.uk or 0844 822 1156 for more infor mation. We also have two new classes running every Monday at 9.45am (mixed ages) and a Baby Bugs at 10.45am (0-12m) at North Merchiston Club and Wednesday at St Thomas Church, Corstorphine at 1.00pm. Please contact Shelley via shelley@ musicbugs.co.uk or 0844 822 1159 for further details.

STEP IT UP DANCE - BREAKDANCE ACADEMY Breakdancing is an excellent way to keep fit as well as helping to build confidence and boost happiness. Our classes are non-competitive and teach new skills in an environment that promotes respect for all. At our weekly Breakdance classes kids will progress their breakin, body popping, lockin, flips & really cool tricks. Head over to our website to sign up to your nearest class. Step it Up Dance run their after sc hool Breakdance Academy on Wednesdays at Gorgie War Memorial Hall from 4pm, Fridays at Leith Victoria Swim Centre and Saturdays at the Carlton Centre. For full details of the classes, age groups and times go to www.stepitupdance.co.uk

SUMMER TERM AT DANCE BASE

TATTY BUMPKIN

Bookings open for a whole range of fantastic summer term dance courses at Dance Base on Sat 30 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 ever yone 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 255 5525 or pop into Dance Base , 14-16 Grassmarket for more information. Get booking from 30th Mar ch, Dance Base look forward to hearing from you!

Tatty Bumpkin offers yoga-inspired fun sessions and parties,with stories and music, for 0 – 7 year olds, through nurseries or in scheduled classes. It is now also possible to book a series of sessions for a group of friends to take place in your home (space permitting!) We have some availability for parties in March and we are now taking bookings for April and May too. Tatty Bumpkin is planning to expand into other areas of Edinburgh this year and is looking for a fun loving, fit and enthusiastic person to teach sessions to babies and children for a few hours a week.The main thing you need is a natural respect for children and to be able to think on your feet. It’s fun and rewarding! Training will be provided.

See www.tattybumpkin.com/edinburghwest for more information.

Contact edinburghwest@tattybumpkin.com with any queries or to book.

KINDERMUSIK WITH ELLIE

KIDS NLP SCOTLAND

Kindermusik is an internationally acclaimed music and movement programme which complements children's development from newborn to 7 years old. Ellie runs classes throughout the week at Stockbridge Parish Church. Village class is for newborn - 15 months - Wednesdays 9.30am and Fridays at the Yoga Room (10.15am) Wiggle and Grow is for 18 months - 3 years at 10.30am on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. Move and Groove is for 3 1/2 up to 5 years on Tuesdays at 1.15pm and also Fridays at 3.30pm. She also runs a Family Time Class 3 Saturdays a month at 11am for babies through to 5 years. www.kindermusikwithellie.co.uk Also on Facebook: Kindermusik with Ellie Tel: 07962678561

Kids NLP Scotland parent consultations and workshops aim to help you create a deep and lasting relationship that is unique to you and your child.

Using techniques that are based on connection rather than shaming, manipulation and punishment, Karen introduces you to insightful and practical ways to benefit your child's emotional well-being and social development.

The individual sessions for children and young people are structured to help them adapt to changes which may have caused anxiety or stress.

Some require support to enhance their social skills or manage their emotions.

Developing a skill set at an early age which helps a young person become more resilient and self aware gives them a tool kit for life.

Helping families address issues impacting on their well being www.kidsnlpscotland.co.uk or call Karen 07837930714

NEW CHILDREN'S DANCE CLASSES

Dancing for healthy, happy bodies and minds ■

breakdance

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hip hop

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cheerleading

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street dance

FRIDAY Scout Hall, South Trinity Road TINY TWINKLES - 18mths - 3yrs TWINKLE TOES - 3 & 4yrs MINI STARS - 5 & 6yrs ALSO COMING TO TRINITY SOON Little Street - 4 & 5 yrs Junior Street - 6-8 yrs Places will go fast so reserve yours now

BOOK YOUR FREE TRIAL CLASS NOW

Ask about a Step It Up Dance Party today! /stepitupdance

www.stepitupdance.co.uk

@StepItUpDanceUK stepitupdanceuk

8 FAMILIES EDINBURGH ISSUE 77

07428 110 135

Additional classes held at Craiglockhart Leisure Centre

Call Nicky 07545 551271

FREEL

TRIA CLASS

nicky@dndance.co.uk www.dndance.co.uk

ACTING OUT UK

LAMP HOUSE MUSIC

Acting Out UK is an Edinburgh based Drama School offering excellent training in a variety of subjects including drama (acting and performance), musical theatre (singing, dancing and performing) and public speaking.

All classes & workshops aim to build confidence while enhancing creativity and imagination.

Teachers are qualified, experienced and passionate about the performing world. Most are professional performers themselves and have a great deal of knowledge about the industry.

Classes are for approx 4-6 years, 7-12 years and 13-17 years. For adults (strictly 18+) there is a Beginners Drama Course, an Intermediate/Advanced Drama Class, a Musical Theatre Class and CPD certified workshops in Public Speaking. Acting Out UK also offer individual coaching for voice work, audition preparation and public speaking.

Qualifications, through certified exams plus the chance of being part of our casting agency are available to all students.

Please note, children and teenagers who enrol before the end of April 2013, will be able to take part in our annual June production at the Pleasance Theatre! For more information please visit our website at www.actingoutuk.com or contact us on 07704 714 607 or email clar e@actingoutuk.com

Lamp House Music High quality, affordable music classes in a fun, friendly and welcoming environment. Lamp House Music offers group music classes at all levels in guitar, drums, keyboard, ukulele and vocals, for both children and adults. One to one lessons in a wide variety of instruments, including piano, are also available.

Classes are taught in groups to keep them cost effective (£10 per hour lesson) and to encourage the social side of music making, however these groups are kept small to ensure that pupils receive the attention and tuition they require. Tutors are professional musicians, qualified, experienced and above all – enthusiastic!

Lamp House Music prides itself as‘East Lothian’s premier music rehearsal and teaching studio’.

Based in Haddington, and just off the A1, it’s easily accessible by Edinburgh city dwellers too.

For more info and to book please call 01620 825630 or email info@lamphousemusic.co.uk www.lamphousemusic.co.uk www.facebook.com/lamphousemusic www.twitter.com/lamphousemusic

JUPITER ARTLAND Tuesday Littlesparks Little Sparks weekly courses offer the ultimate in green outdoor art for preschoolers. Sessions are packed with fun and messy indoor and outdoor activities which develop preschool skills in the beautiful environment of Jupiter Artland. Using the sculpture in its unique natural setting as a base, the children work on stimulating themed art and craft activities. Imaginative play, drama and music sessions alongside the artwork add up to a wonderfully busy morning for little ones. Coffee and cake in the Proposals Room for mums and dads to meet and chat too.

Suitable for 2.5 year upwards. Starting on 16th April and finishing on the 25th June. Morning session 9.30am to 12pm – 10 sessions £85 or afternoon session 1 - 3pm - 10 sessions £80. www.jupiterartland.org Friday Afternoon Littlesparks The Friday afternoon sessions are aimed at older children in the early school years.The sessions will involve fun outdoor activities based on artist’s work at Jupiter, anything from twining in the trees after Shane Waltener to sketching on the Jencks trying to capture the contours in charcoal to building large scale group sculpture over a few sessions.The range of activities is very broad and as much as possible is outside so children learn the connection between the art and the land at Jupiter. Over the term the group will work together creating a sculpture inspired by Andy Goldsworthy’s Stone House. Suitable for 4-6 year olds. 1.30 – 3.30pm. Starting on 19th April and finishing on the 28th June. 10 sessions at £8.50 per session is £85 www.jupiterartland.org

MONKEY MUSIC Monkey Music run classes for children from 3 months - 5 years old.Our fun and creative progressive curriculum allows children to learn something new in each lesson helping to build on a range of different skill sets. Our creative props, original music and brilliant teaching staff make each lesson a great event which little monkeys look forward to each week. For further infor mation or to book a FREE trial session contact Rac hel Huggins comelybank.corstorphine@monkeymusic.co.uk - 0131 260 9667. Monkey Music is also available for birthday parties and nursery sessions.

RAD Trained Teachers RAD Ballet Classes Graded & Vocational

Ballet - Modern - Jazz - Tap - Hiphop - Nursery Ballet Classes from 3 years to adult - Fairmilehead - Colinton - Firhill Excellent Royal Academy of Dance exam results 0131 6619590 07792152966 info@angelawatsonschoolofdance.co.uk www.angelawatsonschoolofdance.co.uk

RUGBYTOTS Rugbytots is expanding and are looking for new coaches in and around Edinburgh. Great rates of pay and excellent fun! Email your CV to carl@rugb ytots.co.uk for more detail. (SRU Level 1 rugb y, first aid & PVG required)

HONEY POT CERAMICS After School Art Classes for Age 5+ at Honey Pot Ceramics Every Friday afternoon between 3.30pm and 5pm during term time, we run our after school club. Each week we have a different fabulous project to work on using a variety of mediums. Booking essential. Price: £12. Or book 6 sessions for £60 Messy Play Sessions – For preschool children Ever y Monday, Thursday or Friday Morning Our sessions include a range of art and craft activities, including 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! www.honeypotceramics.co.uk

Honey Pot Ceramics • Paint you own pottery • Make your own cosmetics • Design your own jewellery • Try out other craft activities • Party Packages • Messy Play for Pre-school children For details of workshops and holiday activities visit: www.honeypotceramics.com or call us on 0131 333 6348 Based at the EICA, Ratho, South Platt Hill, EH28 8AA Open 7 days 10 - 5pm - other hours by arrangement Open late Thursday

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ANGELA WATSON SCHOOL OF DANCE Angela Watson School of Dance: Fairmilehead, Colinton and Firrhill The school runs ballet classes for 3 years - adults and tap and modern from pre school - adults. Due to popular demand we have just started a tap and modern class for pre school and P1 children on a Saturday morning in Fairmilehead. This class started a few weeks ago and is for the complete beginner. All our ballet classes from P1 and up follow the RAD syllabus and we are delighted that all RAD exams are now accredited with SQA points. Intermediate and grades 6, 7 and 8 gain the same points as a standard grade which is great news.

We are now running parties on a Saturday afternoon with our fully qualified RAD teacher Hayley Johnston, pick your theme and find your hall and Hayley will come to your party and deliver a dance workshop and games, our amazing starting price for 2013 is £50 for 1 hour and 15 minutes. We can even provide the party bags for a £1 a bag.

We also plan to run a summer school at the beginning of July this year, please see website for details: www.angelawatsonschoolofdance.co.uk Edinburgh/Lothians 07940 559135

HQ Fife 01383 62 45 99

DYNAM-NIC DANCE Dynam-nic Dance have launched new childrens classes in the Trinity area. Children from age 18 months can now 'Discover The Joy Of Dance' on a Friday afternoon at Trinity Scout Hall, South Trinity Road. Tiny Twinkles will have little ones aged 18 months to 3 years dancing on their tippy toes, and don’t forget one parent or guardian gets to join in the fun! Adventurous 3-6 year olds can try our fun Street classes along side our Ballet and Tap classes. Times and class descriptions can be found on our website or contact Nicky to book your fr ee trial class 07545551271 nic ky@ dndance.co.uk www.dndance.co.uk Additional classes take place at our Craiglockhart venue

CONGRATULATIONS TO THE CHILDREN IN A STAR SPORTS CLASSES! Set the challenge of walking 5 Million steps the amazing ‘stars’ managed to smash that doing more than double with 11,471,050 steps!

Alister and Brian who run local A Star classes told us “The children who recorded the closest number of steps to the coaches taking part each won a prize of one full session, or its equivalent, at one of our holiday clubs this year . The best example that we can give to the many children that attend our classes is that grown-ups can join in and have a lot of fun being active, too!”

Working with children up to 11 years old, A-Star Sports is in a prime position to help children to develop good life habits that will significantly improve their health into adulthood. A-Star Sports offers multi-sports coaching for children from two years old to 10, teaching them to play individually , in games with a partner or in teams. From the fundamentals through to ten core sports (basketball, cricket, dodgeball, football, handball, hockey, rounders, rugby, tennis and volleyball), children learn in a positive environment with highly motivated coaches. www.a-starsports.co.uk call 0845 459 2210

SPARKLE ARTS PARENT AND CHILD CLASSES What could be more rewarding than watching your child develop his or her creativity and imagination – and being able to join in yourself?

Our specially - themed classes complement the National Curriculum for early years and the Curriculum for Excellence. Through dance, music, and drama we aim to nurture each child’s creative expression – developing social skills and building confidence along the way . We teach a variety of fascinating topics to facilitate early knowledge and understanding of countries, cultures, festivals, the natural world, the changing seasons, animals and more.

By taking part with your little one, you will have the chance to share all these valuable experiences. And we guarantee that you’ll have a lot of fun together , too.

For more information please contact us, or email info@sparklearts.co.uk or go to www.sparklearts.co.uk

10 FAMILIES EDINBURGH ISSUE 77

POTTER AROUND CRAFT ‘N’ A STORY Bring your toddlers to a fun session where we read their favourite stories, sing songs and do related craft activities.

Coffee and chat for mums and carers. Mondays at 10am. £4.50. Kids Club Friday Kid’ s Club 1.30-3pm £10 a session including juice and a snack continues throughout March and April with different activities each week including painting, clay, jewellery, decopatch and paper craft. Potter Around, Overton Far m, Kirknewton,West Lothian 01506 238961 chat@potteraround.co.uk

KUMON MATHS & ENGLISH CENTRE Scotland’s first designated Kumon Maths & English Centre is no w open in Corstorphine, Edinburgh.

The centre will be open 5 days a week, giving students more flexibility and opportunity to attend class. The centre will also remain open throughout the school holidays. Why not pop in this Easter?

Kumon is the country’s leading supplementary education provider, with over four million students worldwide and a record of excellence in maths and English. Whatever your child’s age or ability, we can help them to excel academically, develop their capacity for learning independently and boost their confidence in all areas of life.

Students attend their local Kumon centre once or twice a week for around half an hour per subject and have daily worksheets to complete at home. For details Contact Grant Jones at the Corstorphine Stud y Centre and tak e advantage of our Fr ee Assessment, call 0131 334 1036 or visit www.kumon.co.uk. To find other centres in and around Edinburgh visit www.kumon.co.uk

OSCARS Oscars operate out of school childcare provision across Edinburgh & The Lothian’s in the form of Breakfast Clubs, After School Clubs and Holiday Clubs. We currently have 11 services registered with The Care Inspectorate and we are currently looking to expand our network of clubs.

Established in 1992, our success is based on the quality of our staffing both within our childcare services and at head office. We have a dedicated team of staff at head office, providing support in the areas of human resources, finance, and marketing & reservations. In addition, we have two Operations Managers, providing support to our childcare staff on a daily basis. Our head office support allows childcare staff to focus on providing an efficient, professional & fun service that is enjoyed by children and valued by parents.

We provide on-going support to our staff with regard their registration with The Scottish Social Services Council (SSSC) and their continued professional development. Many of our staff have already achieved the relevant qualification required to meet the SSSC criteria. However, we continue to support staff with their training both in financial and practical terms.

Oscars is committed to supporting its staff and providing an enjoyable and rewarding environment in which to work. Our staff are key to ensuring the continued success & development of Oscars. If you w ould like further infor mation on OSCARS please contact either Jonathan Combe or Andrew Fisher on 0131 557 7500.

MADDIE & MARK’S PLAY TOWN There’s so much happening in Play Town!

As well as the Ball Pool, Surf Rider, Zoopa Cannon, Soft Play and Imagination Zone, there’s loads of exciting extras to keep you all enthralled. Play Town has regular Toddler Mornings and Stor y Time on Mondays, Creative Corner on Tuesdays and After School Specials Monday to Wednesday along with Sing a Long Sessions on Thursdays.

Maddie & Mark’s Play Town at Ocean Terminal - www.maddieandmarks.co.uk

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Second Time Lucky?

Secondary infertility – “the inability to become pregnant, or to carr y a pregnancy to term, following the birth of one or more biological children”.

Even the term feels inferior . It’s not primar y, it’s secondary - lesser. It’s underresearched, underfunded and misunderstood. But infertility is still infertility , and just as distressing, despite the fact that sufferers already have a child. Mothers can feel completely alone, the only one at nurser y who’s not pushing a buggy containing number two, but in fact it’s increasingly common and estimates are that as many as one in five couples experience difficulty conceiving their second child.

It’s understandable that mothers feel isolated because this is a topic which just isn’t discussed openly. It’s almost taboo to discuss secondar y fertility problems surely if you’ve got one healthy child then you should count yourself lucky . But although mothers love that child, and feel heartbroken for people who haven’t been able to have any, it doesn’t take away the gnawing pain, month after month, when they realise they’re still not pregnant. And to make matters worse they’re forced to move in baby circles on a daily basis and are constantly asked when number two will be on the way.

Cate MacDonald, 38, has a talkative 3 year old daughter , Alyssa, who couldn’t understand why she was the only child in her nursery class not to be getting a new baby. “She asked me all the time when our new baby was coming and I just had to say ‘one day soon, the new baby isn’t quite ready to come yet’ - sometimes I ran to the loo to have a quiet weep”. Cate got pregnant easily first time round and she and her husband started tr ying again when Alyssa was 1, thinking they’d like one more and with not too big a gap. But 2 years passed with no pregnancy . “All the tests were negative and we were told it was unexplained – I felt so frustrated that we weren’t able to do it again when we did it once before. I was stressed and tired, juggling my job with looking after Alyssa, and biting my husband’s head off on a regular basis. And as the clock ticked towards my 39th birthday I really started to panic.”

Cate went to Deirdre Armstrong at Edinburgh’s Natural Fertility Centre for support.

Armstrong says Cate’s story is very familiar and estimates that the NFC has seen over 500 couples suffering from secondar y infertility since it opened in 2006.

“Secondary infertility represents just under 50% of our workload. Most often it’ s due to a combination of hormonal imbalances after the birth of the first baby along with a big dose of stress. Very occasionally there are more serious issues resulting from a traumatic pregnancy or deliver y first time around, but usually it’s a case of getting the hormones to settle down, teaching women that their cycles may be very different now and making sure that both partners are well nourished and taking good care of themselves.” Armstrong also points out that many couples are simply not having enough sex and underestimate just how often they need to be prioritising that – of course, she’s aware how hard that can be with a demanding toddler to deal with. She emphasises the importance of looking at both partners in

The Natural Fertility Centre™ EDINBURGH GLASGOW

A decade's experience, expertise & specialist treatments.

Scotland's leaders in natural fertility & IVF support

0131 629 1529

www.thenaturalfertilitycentre.com 12 FAMILIES EDINBURGH ISSUE 77

detail – “it’s easy to assume that if a man has got his partner pregnant once, the problem must lie with her, but in fact it’s very common for men’s fertility to decline with age and for sperm problems to develop”.

The approach taken by the team at the Natural Fertility Centre is to use a combination of candid talking and advice and developing a proactive plan of action utilising the expertise of practitioners in conception coaching, acupuncture, herbal medicine, nutrition and hypnotherapy – between them they have years of experience and have helped hundreds of couples succeed in having a baby . The Centre which has recently relocated to its own dedicated clinic in Edinburgh’s New Town also has a network of practitioners who work in Glasgow . Cate’s treatment plan included acupuncture to regulate her erratic cycles and a nutritional overhaul.

Four months after her first appointment she got pregnant and has just broken the happy news to Alyssa after her recent 12 week scan.

In an area which is under resourced in the NHS it’ s a valuable service. “Above all, couples really appreciate the chance to come and talk to someone who understands and can give them support as well as concrete advice, ” Armstrong says. “They leave us with a plan of action ... and hope”.

www.thenaturalfertilitycentre.com 0131 629 1529 Initial consultations at the Natural Fertility Centre in Albany Street cost just £45

Reproflexology

TM

Specialised Fertility Reflexology The ability to conceive depends on many different factors, but it is essential that both partners are in optimum health to enable this to happen. If medical tests show that there is no medical reason for a couple to conceive, lifestyle issues may contribute to infertility and if a couple have been trying to conceive for some time the stress and anxiety this causes can be all-consuming which also may affect their ability to conceive.

Reproflexology is a calming and balancing holistic ther apy that can help to ease emotional and physical stress and tension.

Regular reflexology treatment, coupled with lifestyle changes by both partners can greatly improve fertility.

What is it?

ReproflexologyTM aims to assist couples/individuals who would like help with any of the following: • Natural conception • Assisted conception; IVF; ICSI; IUI • Menstrual cycle/hormonal imbalance leading to infertility • Endometriosis; fibroids; PCOS • Sperm quality and quantity • General health and wellbeing – creating the optimum health for Mums and Dads to be

How does it work?

This is a relatively new area of specialism in Reflexology and has been developed to look at all aspects of fertility, conception and pre conception care. It includes in its protocol: • Assessing and regulating the endocrine system (hormone balance) • Stress reduction techniques – physical, emotional and mental • Working with symptoms and causes of hormonal imbalance • Working to enhance the medicated cycle in assisted conception • Addresses lifestyle/exercise/diet and nutritional supplementation to support optimum health • Full support offered in a creative and caring environment

What is involved?

It is recommended that both partners complete the initial consultation form and this can be sent out prior to the first appointment.

To prepare an appropriate treatment plan time is given at the first appointment to discuss and/or complete the consultation form and to do an initial foot assessment/treatment.

• Initial consultation and assessment/treatment 90 minutes • Follow up treatment session 60 minutes Anne Young BSc RN CBMI MIFPA Venues: Scents of Wellbeing, 25 Inverleith Row, Edinburgh, EH3 5QH KnotStressed, 10a Blenheim Place, Edinburgh, EH7 5JH Mobile: 07811 073 202 E-Mail: anne@scents-of-wellbeing.co.uk Web: www.scents-of-wellbeing.co.uk

love life? relationship trouble? lets talk...

At resolve, we want you to get the best out of life.

Don’t get bogged down with worry, let us support you to take control. resolve can help you to you deal with stress, whatever the cause, so that you can take control of your worries, rather than have them control you.

We tailor the solution to meet your needs.

Struggling to juggle a busy work Feel like and home you are letting life? your kids/ partner/ employer down?

Relationships suffering?

Too exhausted to care?

0131 718 6003 or support@resolvescotland.org.uk

www.resolvescotland.org.uk

resolve is a Social Enterprise funded by the Scottish Government’s Enterprise Growth Fund. It is part of Health in Mind, a charity which has been promoting mental health and wellbeing in and around Edinburgh for over 30 years (SC004128).

13 FAMILIES EDINBURGH ISSUE 77

Top Tips

for Preparing Mind and Body for the Arrival of your Little One Mind-Body Relaxation Every Day “People say nothing is impossible, but I do nothing every day.” A. A. Milne We don’t often hear of the tantamount importance of relaxation during pregnancy and yet if a mother has stress hormones coursing through her veins, these are transmitted to the baby across the placenta. By contrast, if a mother is calm, her baby is relaxing in a sea of endorphins - pleasure-inducing hormones.

Endorphins have fabulous benefits for mother and baby , such as reducing blood pressure and lowering the risk of pre-eclampsia. Being in a generally positive mood during pregnancy can also have a longer -term impact on your baby’ s health and personality and recent studies suggest a more relaxed mum is more likely to produce a healthier, less irritable child.

For hundreds of years in China people have believed that the personality and disposition of the unborn child is thought to be strongly connected with the mood of the mother .

Women are urged to control their mood and emotions - so, no gossiping, temper outbursts or hard physical work!

Take Ownership of Your Own Well-being Gentle, toning exercise and healthy nutrition are key to restoring balance and are central to a healthy pregnancy, birth and baby.

There is an abundance of research indicating that gentle exercise can have far-reaching benefits for pregnant women including better sleep, milder pregnancy symptoms (less fatigue, swelling, constipation, gas, and fewer backaches and headaches), fewer mood swings, and a happier state of mind due to the release of endorphins. Exercise can also lower your risk of developing certain pregnancy complications (such as gestational diabetes), make childbirth easier and help speed postnatal recover y.

Good nutrition in pregnancy can have a lifelong effect on your baby . The old adage of ‘eating for two’ is no longer widely accepted and whilst there are some nutrients that we do need more of during pregnancy (such as iron) nutritional needs are far more complex than just increasing calories. Healthy eating for one mother is not necessarily the same as for another. Factors such as weight, growth, allergies, fitness and immune system all come into play. It’s important to get the right advice for you from someone you trust.

Bolster your Support Networks

Endorphins display incredible pain-relieving properties and can have a profound impact on making childbirth more comfortable. One natural endorphin produced by the body has “A stranger is just a friend waiting to happen” Unknown. been shown to have a pain- relieving power 18-50 times that of morphine. So, all you Being able to share with others the highs and lows of your journey , ask questions, seek need to do for an easier, calmer childbirth experience is relax...which is not always easy! reassurance and request help when needed is invaluable in this time of constant flux.

Try to practice relaxation daily during pregnancy. The key is to find your way ‘in’ to deep In many countries, such as China, India, Panama and El Salvador, family members take relaxation, whether it be through meditation, yoga, listening to relaxation CDs, or just care of the new mum for the first 30-45 days after birth. They manage all the household resting to your favourite music. Once you can cut out the ‘noise’ in your mind and truly chores, freeing up the mothers time to be with her baby . This kind of support can ‘switch off’, you will find you look forward to your daily relaxation sessions. And with transform newborn parenting, allowing mum vital recovery time. practice will come the ability, at any point, to tap into your relaxed state - a fabulous life Less of us live in such close knit family units these days. However, there are many ways skill! Imagine being able to take a deep breath in and feel your stresses dissolve in one to forge new friendships and create a support network during pregnancy. Many yoga and out-breath..... aaaaaah.... pilates classes have a social element and the majority of birth preparation classes focus on facilitating discussion between expectant parents in a friendly environment.There are also great support groups for pregnancy, for birth and for new parenthood in Edinburgh.

So, be brave: venture out to meet others during pregnancy and have the courage to ask Slowing down and making time for the things you enjo y during pr egnancy is for help when you need it. You may make friends for life. essential.

Nurture Yourself

The Polynesians have the right idea: women are nurtured and pampered by the entire community throughout the duration of their joyful pregnancy . Even the midwife visits regularly to administer much- deserved massages!

Take time out to treat yourself as often as you can. A regular indulgence will make you feel better, help you cope with the demands of pregnancy , get those happy hormones flowing and ultimately improve your and your baby’s well-being.

De-Cluttering Life, Making Space and Pre-Birth Bonding

"Life is really simple, but we insist on making it complicated." Confucius In Ayurvedic philosophy, it is believed that women should avoid work during pregnancy and stay at home quietly meditating and bonding with the ‘little soul that has come to live with you’. Granted, that is hard to do in our busy lives, however it is poignant that by

Reproflexology (Specialised Fertility Reflexology)

& Maternity Reflexology Anne Young BSc RN CBMI MIFPA Scents of Wellbeing 25 Inverleith Row Edinburgh EH3 5QH KnotStressed 10a Blenheim Place Edinburgh EH7 5JH

Mobile: 07811 073 202 E-Mail: anne@scents-of-wellbeing.co.uk www.scents-of-wellbeing.co.uk 14 FAMILIES EDINBURGH ISSUE 77

comparison we tend to focus on the due date of the baby in terms of rearranging our work schedules and organising our lives.

In India, parents begin preparing a year before conception in order to help their child cope with the pressures of our increasingly complex lifestyles. The process involves traditional diet structuring, use of herbal measures in day-to-day life, yoga, music and meditation.

Bonding with your baby in the womb is a also wonderful way of preparing yourself for parenthood and preparing your baby for their arrival into the world. Babies can see, hear, feel, remember, taste, and think before birth. They are able to survive outside the womb from as early as 24 weeks gestation. Babies in the womb have been shown to respond to light, touch, vibrations, voices, heat, cold and music. Talking to your baby, massaging your bump, playing music or singing to your baby , and visualising your little one are all lovely ways of pre-birth bonding.

Aside from being fun for you,your partner and baby, bonding in this way has been shown to result in fewer low-birth weight and less premature babies. Parents engaged in prebirth bonding were seen to be happier with each other , and mothers were found to be more confident about their changing physique during pregnancy.

Build Confidence through Preparation and Follow Your Instincts “Absorb what is useful, Discard what is not, And add what is Uniquely your Own” Bruce Lee

For birth...

The importance of preparation really cannot be underestimated when it comes to childbirth. Gather as much information as you can, focus on the positive, practice your relaxation and coping techniques and follow your instincts.

It is vital that you understand your birth choices and the difference between routine intervention and medically necessary intervention. Take the time to explore your feelings, together with your partner , about certain procedures that may arise, and about the situations in which some procedures may be necessar y, or not, for you and your baby .

Knowing what questions to ask your midwives and consultants and doing as much research as you can to ensure you feel confident about your choices will help you feel good about your experience.

Explore ways to work with intensity through childbirth and the importance of movement,

positions, massage, breathing, visualisations and relaxation to help you stay in control of your relaxed state. Most of all, feel excited about the imminent arrival of your wee one and allow your feelings about the birth to settle well before the actual event.

For the baby...

We often set ourselves, and our babies, unrealistic expectations but the reality is that babies are individuals and like us, they have individual needs and desires.Understanding the needs of your baby from their perspective - how they feel,what they need - and what it is realistic to expect from them, and having the confidence to follow your instincts will make your life easier.

Be gentle on yourselves though. The instinctive desire, shared by the majority of parents, to be close to their little one, to pick them up when they cr y and rock them to sleep is there for a reason. Sleep is an issue for nearly all parents - it’s understandably hard to wake up every few hours (or more often) for feeds or to settle the wee one. In many cultures, including Sweden, the ‘family bed’ is common and a child may sleep with their parents until they are 2 or 3 years old. In Africa, women traditionally carry their babies in wraps on their backs until around 2 years old.

Feeling confident about how you will help soothe your little one when they are cr ying, what you can do to relieve issues such as colic or reflux,how to manage sleepless nights for all of you, will help to reduce a great deal of frustration and exhaustion later. You don’t need to wait until the baby is born to find out about these things - be prepared before they arrive.

For you and your partner...

Postnatally, it’s hard to keep the balance of a previous relationship. Trying to predict your postpartum squabbles is a great way of re ducing stress later. Tiny issues often seem mountainous in the haze of sleep- deprivation. For example, if you know your flashpoint is housework then make a plan between you to avoid getting frustrating with each other once your baby arrives. This forward-planning makes the world of difference to some couples.

Most of all though, it’s important to do what feels right to you.Relax, work together, follow your instincts and make the most of this time with your thriving, contented bundle of joy.

KnotStressed Therapies have a friendly clinic in the heart of Edinbur gh where they specialise in supporting w omen, their birth partners and families through pregnancy, childbirth and the postnatal period. www.KnotStressed.com

Professional Care & Education for Children from Birth to 5 years

• 1988-2013 Celebrating 25 years of caring for children • On site home cooked meals & healthy snacks • Excellent outdoor facilities • Unique music & movement/dance room • 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

15 FAMILIES EDINBURGH ISSUE 77

Real-nappy ever after – a clean, green

way to cut waste and save money

Just a few decades ago disposable nappies simply didn’t exist – washing and reusing cloth nappies was the norm, and mums around the world rejoiced when their terry-cloth squares were replaced by cheap disposable nappies. Real nappies haven’t been left behind in the 1980s though – they’ve evolved and become easy to use (and beautiful) tools for smart parents ‘in the know’.

Economic times are tough and we’re all tr ying to do our bit for the environment while cutting our household budgets – easier said than done. More and more families are discovering the benefits of using real nappies, both financial and environmental. Monthly ‘Nappuccinos’ run by Changeworks at the Duncan Place Resource Centre are busier than ever and second hand nappy sales at the events are also proving very popular, offering great bargains while supporting the work of the project at same time (profits are ploughed back into the scheme). So why are they enjoying a comeback?

They’re easy

Despite misconceptions real nappies are easy and convenient to use. Many are shaped to fit snugly and fasten with Velcro or poppers. They are either covered with a removable waterproof wrap or already have a built-in one.They come in various sizes and can be made of quick dr ying materials for extra convenience.

One of the biggest benefits is a saving of up to £500 - this amount can be even more if you use the same nappies on a second child and more still if you buy second hand nappies.

They’re reliable

Real nappies are absorbent and due to the built-in elastic they’re ver y unlikely to leak.

They are fun & funky

Real nappies come in a variety of styles, colours and patterns to suit you, your baby and your budget.

They’re green Eight million disposable nappies are used every day in the UK, most of which go to landfill. If you have a child in nappies then half the rubbish in your bin can be made up of disposable nappies! Even when you take manufacture, washing and drying into account real nappies have a much lower impact on the environment.

As well as monthly Nappuccinos the Changeworks Real Napp y Project offers trial packs and lending kits so that you can ‘try before you buy’. Trial nappy packs provide parents with £45 worth of good quality , reliable nappies, wraps and accessories to help make an informed decision when choosing reusable nappies. Lending kits are also available to borrow for three weeks. The kits are laundered by a professional laundering company before being passed on to the next user. A £50 returnable deposit is required and prices start from £12.

For this year’s Real Nappy Week (15 - 21 April) Changeworks is taking part in the Guinness World Record Diaper (Nappy) Change. The Real Nappy Project was the only Scottish project to take part in the challenge last year, and we had a great afternoon contributing to the total of 8,251 babies changed simultaneously worldwide.

Case study – families with extra needs can use them too!

Real nappies are not just for young babies.

Changeworks Real Nappy Project volunteer Kirsty Lawson and her daughter Eilidh use them too. Here’s their story: “My daughter has Autism, a learning disability, no speech and mobility difficulties so everything takes much longer for her to learn and understand.” Says Kirsty . “She was 5 years old in December and is not fully toilet trained during the day or night. We have used real nappies since she was 4 months old, but the older and bigger she gets the harder it is to get re-usable pull ups or nappies so I’ve had to do some research.

“During the day Eilidh wears regular pants, however we also use Motherease Trainer pants which have been a blessing as she can have an accident and it stops all her clothes getting wet because of the waterproof outer.”

Although it can be hard to find bigger sizes Kirsty still prefers to use real nappies – both for the financial savings and for the peace of mind that she’ s not sending nappies to landfill. She’s found that brands like Minki (www.nappiesbyminki.co.uk) are happy to discuss her needs and help make it easier to manage.

She also gets a lot out of volunteering for the Changeworks Real Nappy Project.

Edinburgh mum Hazel Lambert said: “We took part to help show that real nappies are easy to use and good for the planet.

I use real nappies whenever I can on my b aby Magnus. They’re good for his bum, my purse and the planet. Whenever I've used real nappies exclusively he has never had nappy rash, and of course they also look extremely cute!”

The event tak es place on the mor ning of Satur day 20 April at the Parish Centre of St Mary’s Cathedral (next to Cafe Camino at the back of John Lewis) in Edinbur gh. If you use r eal nappies and would like to take part please contact realmappies@changeworks.org.uk or call 0131 555 4010 to book your place.

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Contact details: If you have any questions or would like further information about any of the above please get in touch: T: 0131 555 4010 E: realnappies@changeworks.org.uk W: www.changeworks.org.uk

Naming Ceremonies Cheeky Wee Monkeys specialise in personalised embroidered baby blankets and gifts.

They offer unique and fun designs you won't find on the high street You can add child's name, d.o.b, weight or message to your blanket to make it totally personal. The blankets are extremely soft and cosy and easy to wash Free P+P on all UK orders. Based in East Lothian

www.cheekyweemonkeys.com

Real Nappies…Real Change This year’s Real Nappy Week takes place 15 to 21 April, with the theme of 'Real Nappies...Real Change!' to inspire a new generation of parents to make the change. Find out more at www.goreal.org.uk/real-nappy-week

It can be all too easy for us to experience life events without taking the time to celebrate them or to reflect on their meaning and how they will influence us in the future.

Traditionally people have turned to the church to celebrate significant events in their lives such as birth, marriage or death. But changes in our society mean that our connection with the church has changed for many and for some it holds no real significance at all.

Your ceremony would last about 20-25 minutes and may contain: 1. Opening Words 2. First reading such as a poem 3. Naming of the Child

Civil Celebrants are trained to listen to people’ s needs and wishes and work with them to create a ceremony that is tailor made to suit the wishes of all the people involved. What many people don’t realise is that a christening or baptism has no legal standing which means that parents are free to create their own ceremony.

4. Parents' promises or blessing

Naming ceremonies are increasingly popular if you want to provide a formal ceremony to name your child or you want to welcome an adopted child into your family and make commitments.

You may want to change an original name or give grandparents a role in a child’s life. Or you may be celebrating a new step-family.

“Civil celebrants are not affilia ted to an y church or religious organisation or even the Humanistic Society.

Therefore we are free to create any kind of ser vice you wish. It can be completely non-religious or semireligious or even a mix of elements from a variety of different religions. The choice is yours entirely . My aim is to provide a ceremony which is ver y personal and meaningful. A service which is unique to those involved and was created around their wishes and beliefs.” Duncan, Civil Celebrant Scottish Civil Ceremonies - Making Ceremonies Meaningful. Together we can create the ceremony , for whatever you want, in just about any way you want. For more infor mation go to www.scottishcivilceremonies.co.uk

There is virtually no limit or restriction as to what you can do or include in a ceremony . There are many types of ceremony all over the world in the different religions and elements of any of them can be utilised, or you may want to create something entirely different and do your own thing.

5. Grandparents' and other family promises or blessing (Optional) 6. Final Reading 7. Closing Words 8. Signing a commemorative certificate.

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Classes for

You

There are activities you can take your baby to pretty much as early in their life as you w ant/can cope with getting out the front door for. We asked local classes to tell us a bit more about what they offer for under 2’s.

KINDERMUSIK FOR BABIES & TODDLERS

Kindermusik for Babies (newbor n – 18 months): Music is one of your baby’ s favourite things – AND it’s one of the best things for your baby’s development. In Kindermusik we offer a sensory rich environment, complete with music, movement and fun, to create and strengthen baby’s development. Each Kindermusik class touches on ever y learning domain, creates special bonding moments and begins to instil a lifelong love of music.

Kindermusik for toddlers (18 months+): Each week, you can nurture your toddler’s energy and creativity in a Kindermusik class designed for your child on the move! In our class we allow plenty of room for busy toddlers to explore and discover, to initiate their own ideas and to respond in their own ways, while your active participation provides the security your child needs. As we play instruments, sing and dance, we uncover an engaging musical world while building your toddler’ s confidence, self-control and early language skills. www.kindermusikwithellie.co.uk Also on Facebook: Kindermusik with Ellie Tel: 07962678561

TURTLE TOTS

Kindermusik is the world’s leading provider of music & movement programmes for young children ages newborn to 7 years!

Swimming is one of the first activities your baby can really enjoy , and one of the first things you can do together in your precious family time. Turtle Tots classes aim to give you and your baby the confidence to swim together , in a really fun environment, in our innovative and progressive programme. We encourage your baby to learn to swim over and under the water, sing lots of songs, and also teach them potentially lifesaving water -safety skills. Swimming has SO many physical, developmental and social benefits for your baby, and our classes also help mum/dad to burn up to 250 calories per class,and to spend some amazing time bonding with your wee one.

Before your baby has arrived Turtle Tums aquanatal yoga classes are a lovely way to exercise gently whilst pregnant , and to promote flexibility and optimal foetal positioning, in the relaxing and stress-free environment of warm water. Classes run around Edinburgh at various locations/days/times, so please contact Karina for mor e information on 07964840049 or Edinbur gh@ turtletots.com, or c heck out the website www.turtletots.com

BABY BUMPKIN!

Baby Bumpkin classes are now available in Edinburgh! Yoga - inspired fun sessions for babies that encourage movement and enhance development, they combine stories, music and simple baby yoga movements in a multi-sensory session. We include some gentle stretches for Mum, along with rhymes, toys and props to gently stimulate and then relax baby. Sessions are currently available for babies from 6 weeks old to pre-crawling. More information is available at www.tattybumpkin.com/edinburghwest/classes-baby.html.

Contact edinburghwest@tattybumpkin.com for more information or to book.

WATER BABIES

Swimming with your baby in bath-tub warm waters is a truly delightful experience. It’s a very special time, where you’re able to focus purely on each other , enjoying a real sense of closeness that playing in water creates. Babies love being in water – so have great fun learning potentially life-saving skills. And swimming from birth is entirely natural. After all, they’ve just spent nine months in the womb!

As well as being really good fun and energetic, Water Babies’ structured lessons are a wonderfully sociable activity. Having begun your journey together, classmates often become friends and a real source of support. And, as the weeks go by, you’ll love sharing the thrill of seeing your children progress with the help of our professional instructors. We’re the world’s leading baby swimming company, most recommended to parents by other parents. Which is one of the reasons why we’ve won six national awards.

Recognising our passion for everything we do.

Lessons run 7 days a week throughout Edinburgh. For more information call us on 0131 554 6682, email woggle@waterbabies.co.uk or visit www.waterbabies.co.uk .

JO JINGLES

Jo Jingles run music and movement classes across Edinburgh and the Lothians. We run specific baby classes which start from 3 months, classes for under 2’s, as well as classes for older children. Each week we use different percussion instruments which are perfect for little hands to explore and lots of fun, exciting props like bubbles, streamers and the parachute to enhance our weekly theme. We use lots of familiar nursery rhymes and knee bouncing songs for the babies too, encouraging lots of eye contact. Experts believe that an early introduction to music can stimulate imagination and learning as well as improving co-ordination and listening skills. For more details on classes in your area please see our website www.jojingles.com. Music is fun with Jo Jingles!

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& Your Under 2 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 pre-school, 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. Children can join the music school at any age from birth to teens and ever ything in between.

To find out more and/or to enrol please visit www.portobellomusicschool.com or tel: 0131 669 1120

BABY BUGS

STEP IT UP DANCE

Music Bugs, who provide award winning music and singing classes for pre- schoolers, are now running 4 weekly Baby Bugs classes which are suitable for babies from birth to 12 months and involve gentle sensor y play and stimulation. From a ver y young age, babies are able to respond to the rhythm and pattern of music so will enjoy being held, rocked swayed and soothed to the music and nursery rhymes played in class. Treasure baskets and lots of colourful props are used to further stimulate and engage babies in each session.

Classes run for 40 minutes at The Calton Centre, on Monday and Thursday, 1.45 p.m. and St. Stephens Centre on Wednesday, 2 p.m - More details from Hilar y Crothers (East Edinburgh) hilary@ musicbugs.co.uk. Also at North Merchiston Club on Monday, 10.45 a.m and Wednesday at St Thomas Church, Corstorphine at 1.00pm. Email Shelley Marshall (West Edinburgh) shelley@ musicbugs.co.uk for details. Free taster sessions can be pre book ed and a PAYG option is a vailable for Stockbridge and North Mer chiston classes. www.musicbugs.co.uk

Step It Up Dance presents Bab y Breakers (for ages 18m – 5) Great exercise and a fun way for little ones to interact with each other . Involving the whole body, Baby Breakers classes work on strong movements, co-ordination and balance. Taking place in a fantastic studio and with parental involvement, your child will be set for a great Breakdancing experience. Baby Hop (Hip Hop classes for little ones age 18m – 5) Baby Hop classes are set to fun lively music, adapted with young children in mind, and all exercises are designed to promote your child’ s enjoyment of dance, music and movement in a safe environment.

Each class will consist of: • Short, fun warm-up • Initiation to music – learning a basic routine • Games – with fun props including pom poms,bells, balls & scarves • Short drink break (nothing fizzy please!)

• More movement to music • Relaxing cool down Baby Hop and Baby Breakers classes Mondays 11.45am @ Calton Centre, 121 Montgomery Street, EH7 5EP (Baby Hop) Mondays 1.30pm @ Calton Centre, 121 Montgomery Street, EH7 5EP (Baby Hop) Saturdays 10am @ Dancemasters Studios, 40 Restalrig Drive, EH7 6JF (Baby Breakers) www.stepitupdance.co.uk

TUMBLE TOTS Tumble Tots is a fun Active Play Programme for children from six months to seven years. Gymbabes is for children from 6 months to walking confidently. We start with a warming up massage and exercises with songs, the children can explore the equipment with mum, all the new stimuli really brings the children’ s development along, finishing off with a gently song.

Walking to two years old, Confidence, Co-ordination, Fitness and Fun! Each weekly session combines fun, excitement and challenge in a safe and caring environment. All sessions use unique equipment, have a low child to staff ratio, and are geared to the child's developmental stage.

Our experience and training mean your child will get a unique,high quality opportunity to learn and explore in a relaxed, fun class.

Please contact us if you want to book your child a trial session or ask for more information.

A full list of classes can be found online . April Wallace (Edinburgh West) 0131 336 1234 or email on april.wallace@tumbletots.com. www.tumbletots.com/Edinburgh-west Edinburgh East is operated by Jo Letelier-Lobos. Call Jo on 01875 819966 www.tumbletots.com/edinburgh

JACK AND JILL Jack and Jill – Music Fun for Tots is a local, independent business which has been running for nearly 20 years. The classes are run by a qualified music teacher who passionately believes in the positive value of live musical experience from an early age. In the youngest class, for toddlers aged 18 months to two and a half, activities are multi- sensor y and interactive in approach. Adults and toddlers share musical experiences from singing songs together to vigorous lap-rides or gentle swaying to music with scarves, ribbons and pompoms. Young children are encouraged to develop their listening skills and given weekly opportunities to explore a wide variety of musical instruments in a carefully structured though creatively nurturing environment.

Parents say: ‘This has been quite simply the best activity we have been to. I cannot recommend these music classes highly enough and really feel that it has set my daughter up to enjoy music throughout her life’. www.jackandjill-music.co.uk info@jackandjill-music.co.uk

MONKEY MUSIC

Monkey Music classes are a wonderful way to watch your child grow and expand into the world of music.

The specifically designed curricula are written to advance a child's natural ability whilst keeping things fun and orally and visually challenging.

Our Rock'n'Roll curricula for babies from 3 months to toddlers paves the way for your child’ s future emotional and intellectual development with: • a stimulating musical environment gentle songs and fascinating sounds • absorbing activities and precious shared moment Our Heigh Ho curricula for children from toddlers to aged 2 is a great place for any child to play a part in the Monkey Music band!

• as they are up on their feet exploring their own space • they learn to respond to the music that they hear • they benefit from lots of interaction with themed classes and colourful props • they mix and develop with their peers to learn more about social interaction and enjoyment of variety For a free trial class contact Rachel Huggins on comelybank.corstorphine@monkeymusic.co.uk 0131 260 9667 - we look forward to welcoming you! or Alison Rankin on morningside.pentland@monkeymusic.co.uk 0131 669 6004

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Potty Training Tips from

TIME TO START? Look for the clues...... Can your child communicate with you? Does he/ she have good physical skills, such as being able to walk and climb stairs? Can he/she take direction, like being shown how to wash hands? If you answer yes to these and your little one is around two or more then don’t be afraid – go for it!

Don’t put off taking the nappy off Although it can be tempting to wait for a holiday to start potty training,you will reap the benefits if you start when your child is ready. (Research shows it can take longer if you wait too long) …Making Ceremonies Meaningful

Naming Ceremonies & Blessings Personal and meaningful ceremonies where and when you want, your way. www.scottishcivilceremonies.co.uk 07752467956

Simple Steps to Potty Success • Before you start potty training, begin teaching the routine of going to the toilet. Take your child into the bathroom with you to ‘practice’ everything from turning on the light to waving off the poo, washing hands and closing the door.

• Start to change your child’s nappy in the bathroom to help show that poo and wee belong there.

• Stop using nappies and nappy-style training pants and put your little one in ‘grown-up’ pants.

• Talk to your child about where the potty or toilet is and what he/she should do.

• Pop your child on the potty or toilet 20 minutes after food and drink. Do this in the bathroom when you can.

• Accidents are a key part of learning. When your child has little accidents, remember that they will be starting to understand and react to what’ s happening. This awareness is key to making real progress, so try not to use a product that makes it difficult for them to realize they have had an accident.

• We know that potty training can be a stressful time, but try not to get too stressed. It can help if you turn any anger or frustration towards the accidental poo or wee! “What a naughty poo!”

• Keep early trips out short and take a potty in a carrier bag. Make sure you talk about where the potty is and what your child should do.

• Ignore the ‘potty Olympics’ – don’t compare your child’ s progress with others. Potty training takes on average 4 – 6 months. Focus on what you and your child are doing well and build from there.

• If things don’t appear to be working, don’t give up altogether - just go back a stage, and keep praising.

For more tips from Dry Like Me go to www.DryLikeMe.com

the potty training breakthough that’s winning awards!

Dry Like Me potty training pads are a real break-through in the challenge to get children out of nappies and into their own pants.

They have won lots of awards and are endorsed by child toilet training charity, ERIC. The handy little potty training pads turn all pants into potty training pants by adding an absorbent layer . They give your little one extra confidence and ease the pressures on you.

Dry Like Me pads help your child to recognise their body’ s cues for the loo, a key part of potty training. While they are learning, they capture small accidents and so reduce the mess and stress.They are soft, comfortable and suitable for children of all ages with one size fitting all. In research they reduced accidents after only one week.

We can help you get back to work after a career break.

For more information, practical advice and special offers go to www.drylikeme.com.

The PCT Partnership’s highly successful 8 week part time courses for Women Returning to Work give you tuition and 1-1 feedback on writing your CV, completing application forms and preparing for job interviews, as well as updating your IT skills. The course will also re-introduce you to today's working environment and give you guidance and support in finding a job.

And share your experiences at facebook.com/ DryLikeMeUK. Dry Like Me are a vailable from Tesco Extra, Asda, Sainsbury, Morrisons, Superdrug, Wilkinsons, Ocado and Amazon and cost around £3.49 for a pack of 18.

Our courses are funded by Skills Development Scotland and are free if you live in Edinburgh and the Lothians and have been away from work for 13 weeks or more. Our next course will start in October 2013.

Dry Like Me are giving away five ‘Smarter Way to Potty Train Packs’ worth £15.

For information call The PCT Partnership on 0131 622 6240 or email training@thepctpartnership.co.uk

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Each pack contains four boxes of Dr y Like Me pads and a lo vely reward chart and stickers – all the tools you need to help your little one ac hieve potty training success!

Enter online at www.familiesedinburgh.co.uk/win

SAYING SORRY

www.roomseven.com

Young children are by nature egocentric, this means that they focus on their o wn needs and wants and do not consider others’ feelings. This is the r eason why when we initiate an apology, as we frequently do from our children, for hitting another child they reluctantly mutters “sorry”. It’s clear they don’t feel remorse for hurting the other child.

When they say, “I didn’t do it” or “I had it first”, they’re letting you know that they believe they did nothing wrong. That’s just the way children think.

We all find it difficult at times to apologise for our negative actions or words and children are no different. It is normal for young children to grab, hit, and break-up each other’s games, say nasty things, and refuse to share. Instead of forcing them into making insincere apologies set firm limits on inappropriate behaviour .

Children need to know that doing unkind things and being aggressive towards others is simply not allowed.

•

If you don’t want your child to treat others in negative ways, you need to supervise closely so that you catch it before it happens.Distract, re-direct, and get involved. This will help them learn positive ways to treat others

•

Help your child find ways to resolve conflicts. Encourage the use of words to express disappointments. Help with suggestions: “I wanted to play the game by myself”. Set the example, “I’m sorry I shouted at you today.”

•

As children get older explain to them what it means to apologise and that they need to apologise when they break something that does not belong to them and if they tease or make someone feel sad. “When you apologise you tell someone that you feel sorry you hurt them”

The following tips may help you to respond to children’s behaviours in a way that will help them to tak e responsibility for their actions:

•

Helping children to feel good about themselves and have an optimistic attitude will help them to feel secure enough to apologise to others, learn right from wrong and how others should be treated.

• Always begin by listening to your child’s side of the stor y. Children will not offer a sincere apology until they have been heard. When we feel unheard we tend to defend ourselves and refuse to apologize even when we know we are wrong.

•

Try not to overlook the emotional parts. Your child may not make genuine apologies because of being too embarrassed or ashamed to admit a wrongdoing or because he/she may not like being put on the spot or because of the fear of a parents’ reactions and disapproval. For these reasons it is always best to accept their apology as genuine.

•

Try not to overemphasise apology or allow it to become the main consequence for unacceptable behavior , because your child may decide that it’ s worth hitting others when all he has to do is say ‘sorry’ afterwards and he may be excused. So try not to enforce an apology because it’ s a quick and easy way to deal with misbehavior . Instead help your child remedy a situation: “Since you undid your friends’ lego model, you have to help him/her put it back together.” or “You may not want to play with her , but I’m not going to let you hurt her.”

Children imitate their parents’ behavior , so it’ s important to model considerate behavior by apologising to others, “I’m sorry for being late.” It is also important to apologise when you overreact to something your child has done, or when you have to take him/her away from play to rush out for your own reasons. If you apologise whenever the situation calls for it, your child will eventually copy your words and actions.

If you find this article helpful wh y not learn more by attending a course at Edinburgh Parent Centre – Courses and tw o hour Workshops, for parents of children 0-teenagers. Cost from £20-£75 per person in a g roup, one to one couple or individual £50-£300.

Frances Byatt-Smith Qualified Nurse & Health Visitor, BA (Hons) Psychology. Child Relationship Coaching for Parents T: 0131 664 5388 E: info@edinburghparentcentre.com W: www.edinburghparentcentre.com

A fun mix of performing arts classes for children aged 1 to 5, designed to help little personalities shine.

• Nursery/Playgroup/Toddler group classes.

Request a free trial class for children at your nursery, playgroup, or toddler group.

• Parent/Child Classes.

Wednesdays and Fridays(9.15am & 10am).

At the Myreside Club at George Watson's College • Sparkle Arts parties! A magical time for 2 - 12 year olds

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Baby & Child Health

Aromatherapy for Children & Babies

Aromatherapy for Childr en & Babies Workshop Sunday 17th Mar ch 2013 presented by Anne Young BSc RN CBMI MIFPA Learn how to use Aromatherapy for your child’s health This workshop gives you the support you need to learn about aromatherapy and how to blend and use them safely at home for your children/babies.

By the end of the workshop you will:• Enjoy an interesting and practical experience where you will learn the basics of aromatherapy • Understand the difference between aromatherapy essential oils and base (non-smelling) oils • Understand the safety guidelines related to buying, blending, storing and using essential oils • Learn about the different methods of blending essential oils and base oils • Understand the therapeutic properties of essential oils e.g. Lavender – calming and sedative, Eucalyptus – expectorant and decongestant, Roman Chamomile – anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic • Learn how to make blends appropriate for home use with babies and children to help with issues such as chesty/dry cough, nappy rash, colic, constipation, insomnia and eczema • Enjoy a “lotions and potions” practical session where you will make (and keep) your own aromatherapy blend • A comprehensive course hand out Venue: 25 Inverleith Row, Edinburgh, EH3 5QH Time: 10:00 – 13:00

Cost: £55 but £45 if you mention Families Magazine Contact: anne@scents-of-wellbeing.co.uk or mobile: 07811 073 202 *Please note that this is not a professional course it is for personal use at home only*

Salt Therapy could be the natural answer to your child’s woes.

From the minute they start nurser y, you just know you’re in for a roc ky ride as children seem to pick up every little virus that’s going. Not to mention reports of illnesses like asthma, allergies, hayfever and eczema on the incr ease...

If something could help boost your child’ s immune system, strengthen their resistance and increase their energy levels, all 100 % natural and drug free, would you think “too good to be true”? Well, it really is true and it’s called Salt Therapy.

Nothing artificial The health benefits of salt therapy have been well known on the continent since Roman times. It is a natural method of healing now practiced worldwide to treat a variety of respiratory and skin conditions.

The clinically proven treatment is remarkably easy - simply sitting in a salt encrusted room while microparticles of salt are infused into the air by a medical device. The tiny salt particles clean the respiratory system and can reach into even the deepest part of the lung.

Suitable for all ages, but particularly effective in children, who react quickly , effectively and intensively to natural healing methods The children’s cave is designed for you both to relax and just enjoy being together. Children are free to play or watch TV and do not even realize that they are having a treatment.

The Salt Cave Edinburgh branch is open seven days a week, with plenty of 1 hour sessions to suit even the busiest of timetables – and your first session is free!

Call on 0131 510 1091 or email edinburgh@saltcave.co.uk visit www.saltcave.co.uk

Happy Mum’s and Babies Osteopathy for Infants and Children, by Tom Kelman It is always difficult to know who to turn to for reliable andtrusted help when something is not right with your child.“In the 10 years I have been practicing as a paediatric osteopath in Edinburgh, I been very lucky to have treated a wide range of conditions, ranging from unsettled babies with colic/reflux and constant crying/screaming, to those with flathead syndrome (plagio), glue ear, headaches, constant coughs and colds (immunosupp ressed), and even those with ADHD, autistic spectrum, enuresis or GDD.” In older children it could be a football or rugby injury, a trampoline fall, a growth spurt affecting the legs, knees or ankles, or posture related issues from carrying heavy bags to school, even too much gaming/computers causing rounding and slouching the spine and shoulders.

Getting expert advice with a good explanation about what hurts and is causing the problem, is a fundamental part of any treatme nt. The benefits of seeing a specialist, who has the right experience and knowledge to help, can often save days or weeks of worr y and stress.

A&E, GP’s and Heath Visitors do an incredible job, and often help in the first instance. If they are not able to offer the right solution, a qualified paediatric osteopath may be able to help. For advice or further information, feel free to: phone, email or visit www.osteopathedinburgh.co.uk

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Auditory Processing Disorder Does Your Child Hear but not Attend to the Nuances of Sound?

Auditory Processing Disorder (APD) is a general term for a variety of difficulties that affect the way in which the brain processes auditor y information. It is not a hearing disorder , however those that have APD cannot process information they hear in the same way as others do. The cause of APD may result from recurrent ear infections in a child such as glue ear, head injuries or developmental delays that cause difficulties within the central nervous system and then affect processing of auditor y information.

Children develop critical language skills between the age of 6 months and 3 years. The language centres in the brain learn to map out sounds and store it for language processing. If a child suffers from continued middle ear infections during this critical period, then the ability to process language and speech may be affected. Children may HEAR but are unable to attend to the details therefore mishearing happens because the brain misinterprets aural information eg • Confusing similar sounds such as “thirst” with “first”, “there” with “where”, “hat” with “bat”.

• Difficulty understanding language and developing vocabulary • Difficulty following directions • Have poor listening skills • Need more time to process information • Difficulty understanding speech in noisy environments • Difficulty with reading, comprehension, and spelling.

Without the correct intervention, those with APD can find it confusing to interpret verbal information. In a noisy class room situation it is helpful for the child to sit at the front close to the teacher, which will benefit with attention and increased learning.

Helpful suggestions offered by the National Institute of Health are: • Environmental modifications such as classroom acoustics, seating and placement.

• Exercises to improve language – building skills can increase the ability to learn new words and increase a child’s language base.

• Auditory memory enhancement, a procedure that reduces detailed information to a more basic representation may help. Also informal auditory training techniques can be used by teachers and therapists to address specific difficulties.

APD is often difficult to diagnose and can sometimes be misdiagnosed as ADD/ADHD, Asperger Syndrome and forms of autism as it shares common symptoms.APD cannot be diagnosed with a standard hearing test, only specialist audiology testing can establish if APD is apparent. More information on APD can be found at The British Society of Audiology www.thebsa.org.uk At Brightbrain-Scotland, Jane Oliver offers Bal-A-Vis-X, rhythmic / BALance / Auditory / VISion / eXercises and the Raviv Method.

Jane’s approach to overcoming learning differences is multi-sensor y and involves fun based rhythmic, movement which will lead to improved language comprehension, reading skill, communication and self-esteem.

For more information contact Jane Oliver at www.brightbrain-scotland.co.uk M: 07512311317 e: jane@brightbrain-scotland.co.uk Is your child’s learning impacted by dyslexia, dyspraxia? Do they appear to be slow in processing their information or have trouble following instructions? Do they have a short concentration span?

Kb-Insights considers the developmental profile of your child to ascertain if there are underlying factors impacting on their learning. As a trained Neuro developmental therapist Karen uses a movement and sound therapy programme which addresses the root of many learning difficulties. www.kb-insights.co.uk or contact Karen@kb-insights.co.uk

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How to stop your child waking in the night

By Kathryn Mewes

Kb-Insights: Helping Children To Succeed Kb-Insights offer a range of services aimed at enhancing learning and potential to support children in overcoming barriers to learning.

Reading and writing problems, dyslexia, dyspraxia, poor listening and concentration skills, speech and language delay, AD(H)D, poor fine motor skills, low self esteem, auditory processing difficulties, poor social skills.

More information about the various interventions available at www.kb-insights.co.uk Email: karen@kb-insights.co.uk or call 07837 930714

Do you walk around in a daze, feeling you are in a permanent cloud? Rest assured you are not alone. Deprivation of sleep is something that every parent experiences, but when it starts to become part of your everyday life then it is time to stop and ask “Is this how I want it to stay?”

First of all, it is important to understand children’ s sleep cycles. Children tend to be awake for a 12–13 hour day before they reach their ‘window of tiredness’. If a child wakes at 6–7am they will need to be in their bed by 6.50pm with lights out by 7pm if they’re to get to sleep easily. If you miss this window of tiredness your child will get their ‘second wind’, lasting for one sleep cycle (90 minutes). This means that they will not settle again until 8.30pm.

Secondly, it is good to remember that all of us, even adults, wake on average 6 times a night. The difference is we know how to settle ourselves and return to sleep.

Babies are not born with this skill of self-settling and need to be taught. You can’t make your baby sleep, but you can teach them how to put themselves to sleep.

A top tip to help your baby settle themselves is to keep their room dark. If your child comes into a light sleep and can see things around them they won’t be encouraged to go back to sleep.

Samantha’s story: Enough is enough – I need someone to help me!

I called on Kathr yn Mewes, author of The 3 Day Nanny, to help with my 5 year old’s sleep problems. We had got ourselves into a situation where we sat with him for up to 45 minutes each night until he fell asleep. It didn’t stop there. If he woke in the night he would come into our bed, and I would be breastfeeding my daughter while losing precious sleep space to my son. I had got to a stage of thinking my son would never sleep in his own bed. Kathryn claimed that she could solve any challenge in 3 days, but she hadn’t met my son!

However, Kathryn soon devised a reward system, giving my son incentives.

Night 1 When it came to bedtime the message was simple. A relaxing routine followed by saying ‘Goodnight. I’ll see you at breakfast time.’ Kathr yn walked out of the bedroom with ease and confidence ... only to be followed by my son! She returned him to his room with an air of calm even though he was protesting, and every step of the way she explained what she was doing.

After 30 minutes my son realised that this was the way it was going to be. This may sound a long time but it was taking longer when sitting on his carpet waiting for him to fall asleep.

He did wake that night, but instead of allowing him into my room Kathryn guided him back to bed.In the morning I found Kathr yn and my son working on their reward system. I could see a change in him instantly - he had someone believing in him. He could sleep through the night.

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©www.adenandanais.co.uk

Night 2 As you can imagine, my son gave me a quite a run for my money, but the most important thing Kathr yn taught me was how a child can sense your emotions.If I wanted to get him to stay in his bed he had to believe that I was serious and that I was not going to back down. I had to remain calm yet in control, and 20 minutes later he stayed in his bed. That night he slept through until morning.

Night 3 By night 3 my son knew the routine. He let me put him to bed and leave the room. It was all so straightforward.

Why hadn’t I done this sooner?

Kathryn’s Top Tips for Solid Sleep • Remain consistent with the 3 B’ s – Bath, Book / Bottle, Bed • Get your children to bed at the right time – aim to be leaving their bedroom at 7pm • Have your own little routine in the bedroom that should last no longer than 20 minutes. The longer you stay the harder it is to leave • Ensure the room is dark when you leave • Have the door closed or pulled to.The door only opens when it is breakfast time • Don’t react to your child’ s requests. No more talking after ‘See you at breakfast time’ • Create a reward system for an older child to encourage them to remain in their bed A silent night can be achieved. Believe in yourself and your child, remain consistent and it only need take 3 nights. I promise!

By Kathryn Mewes, author of ‘The 3 Day Nanny’ published by Vermillion, £12.99.

A Juggling Act

©www.impkids.co.uk

Whether you work or stay at home, are single or married, have one child or five, family challenges and responsibilities can be a significant source of stress. Our demands can pull us in a million different directions as we try to do everything for everyone. Most stressed out women perform a great juggling act of meeting the needs of their family, partner, career and friends, but struggle when it comes to taking care of themselves.

It can sometimes feel selfish to want or need things for yourself. However, taking a little time out for your own wellbeing has lasting positive effects on your entire family. If we don’t take care of ourselves, then we run the risk of not being able to take care of others.

Helps children to move forward, overcome anxieties, habits and behaviours holding them back.

Working with parents to help improve communication at many levels with their children.

Masterful Parenting course - book now!

Mind Matters - preparing for exams Individual sessions throughout the year Call Karen 07837930714 www.kidsnlpscotland.co.uk

Progressive multi-sensory fun approach Beginners to advanced Mother & Toddler Holiday Clubs

Contact 0131 510 0328 www.spanishamigos.co.uk kirsty@spanishamigos.co.uk

Running a family isn’t easy and we can all feel overwhelmed at times but we often increase stress levels by demanding perfection with everything we do. Often we aim for Superwoman but forget that she isn’t real. Instead we set ourselves up for failure, criticise ourselves for not meeting our unrealistic standards and finally , feel guilty for not being a great mum/partner/employee. Sound familiar?

Being a working mum while raising a family is often challenging and can leave us racked with guilt but the reality is that many parents don’t have the luxur y to stay at home with the children. At times when things are tough or you’re feeling guilty, focus on why you made this choice. Parents are the greatest role model for children. If you take time to manage your stress you set a great example toyour children. Children model their parents’ behaviour, including those relating to how we solve problems and manage stress. resolve can help you to develop effective coping strategies that don’t involve putting unrealistic pressure on yourself.

Too much stress can cause problems with our ability to prioritise. Our children, work, partner and even housework can all come before taking care of ourselves. It’s time to re-order. Our children and loved ones will often be a priority, but why not make 2013 the year that you make yourself a bigger priority and invest some time in your own wellbeing.

Perhaps you’ve lost your way or your stress levels are constantly on high alert? resolve is here to help. understand the demands placed on us by families.

We

We work with individuals to help them develop more healthy perspectives, managing feelings of guilt, tackling perfectionism and offer stress management. If you find yours elf constantly stressed out, the only way this will change is if you spend time focusing on your needs too – then ever yone benefits.

Clare Johns, Wellbeing Consultant, resolve. Tel: 0131 718 6003 E-mail: support@resolvescotland.org.uk resolve is a social enterprise, based in Edinburgh city centre, offering personalised solutions for dealing with stress and life’s challenges. We work closely with individuals and businesses to identify their needs and to deliver a tailored wellbeing package. Based in St Andrews Square, Edinburgh

Celebrate International Women’s Day with us on Friday 8th March!

How can we keep well and keep on juggling? Hear from a range of ordinar y but extraordinary women, have a pamper, enjoy a glass of bubbly and delicious lunch. Above all else, have FUN! Bring your friends, meet new ones, network, be inspired and learn something new.

Meet our host, former Corporate Lawyer and now award winning Mumpreneur Anna Louise Simpson AKA “Mama Tea”.

Merchants Hall, Hanover Street Edinburgh 10am - 3pm.

For further details please get in touch. Tickets £60 per person.

Group discount available for groups of 6.

Contact us on 0131 718 6003 or support@resolvescotland.org.uk www.resolvescotland.org.uk

Bob Hutcheson GARDENING SERVICES

• Grass Cutting • Hedge Trimming • Pruning • Weeding • Planting Call Bob Hutcheson (proprietor) on 0131 558 7673 or 07764 768839 SEPA registered

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EASTER

CLUBS CLASSES & ACTIVITIES WESTWOODS SUPERSTARS – MULTI ACTIVITY CAMP FOR CHILDREN

Westwoods Superstars is a daytime activities camp for c hildren aged 5-12 years old based at Westwoods Health Club. The club is situated within the stunning grounds of Fettes College ensuring your child can enjoy exciting activities in a fun and safe environment. Activities include swimming, indoor and outdoor sports, arts and crafts, traditional games, trips to local

attractions and much more!!! The Camp runs Monday to Friday from 9am to 5pm – and you can drop your children off from 8.30am and pick up until 5.30pm.

Our Easter camp runs from 1st – 5th April, our summer camp commences on 15th July and ending on 9th August (15th – 19th July, 22nd – 26th July, 29th July – 2nd August, 5th – 9th August). 3-4 Day packages are also available. For more information or to make a booking, please call Westwoods on 0131 332 5777 or visit our website: www.westwoodshealthclub.com or e-mail westwoods@fettes.com

TUMBLE TOTS 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. Then 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 25th, Tuesday 26th March and Tuesday 2nd and Friday 5th April 2013. Please call Jo on 01875 819966 for mor e information and to book your c hild a place or email Jo on joletelier.lobos@virgin.net

SPANISH AMIGOS EASTER HOLIDAY CLUB Drama School for Everyone Drama

Theatre * Musical * Public Speaking Training Classes for Adults, Teens & Children (from 4+) Performances & Qualifications

www.actingoutuk.com 07704 714 607 clare@actingoutuk.com Morningside and Meadowbank locations

Individual Coaching and Workshop Hire

Spanish Amigos Easter holiday club is taking place from Monday 25th Mar ch to Thursday 28th March 2013. During the 12 hour intensive club we take imaginar y trips to Latin countries experiencing culture and language. We will visit Spain and Mexico and learn from the arrival at the airport, on the plane, restaurants, beach, buy and pay in foreign currency, etc. And just to mention one surprise we will learn how to make a pinata! Location: Calton Centre 121 Montgomer y St EH7 5EP Cost: £75 for 1 child, 10% sibling discount £135 for 2 children, 15% sibling discount for 3 children £191.25 To book please email kirsty@spanishamigos.co.uk or call 0131 510 0328

MORTONHALL TENNIS CLUB EASTER CAMPS Running for 2 weeks - 25th - 29th March and 1st - 5th April. The camps will be run by Dan Murray (Senior Club Coac h) & his team. Each week will be broken down into 2 groups: 10am – 12 Noon Mini Tennis Camp (Approx. 5-9 Years). This is aimed at children of primary school age playing with soft/ low compression tennis balls 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. 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. The club house will be used for indoor games, quizzes and tennis videos. As soon as it is playable we will be bac k out on court. Mini Tennis (mornings) £37.50 (members) £47.50 (non members) Junior Tennis (afternoons) £57.50 (members) £67.50 (non members) There is a 10% discount on 3 or more bookings from the same family . Camps also available in the summer. If you ha ve any queries please contact Dan on 07875 192530 or dancmurray@hotmail.co.uk

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EASTER BREAK AT POTTER AROUND Workshops will run 10.30am-12 daily on weekdays and will include ever ything from fimo Easter eggs, a beaded mobile, an Easter tree, woodland walks, friendship bracelets, potters’ wheel fun and learning to knit. There will of course be an 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.

Potter Around, Overton Farm, Kirknewton, West Lothian 01506 238961 chat@potteraround.co.uk

HIP HOP EASTER SCHOOL AT DANCE BASE Exciting Hip Hop Easter Sc hool at Dance Base- Monday 1 Apr- Friday 5 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. The 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 . £97.50 per week or £87.50 each child for more than 1 child from the same family. Quick, places do sell out, so book online at dancebase .co.uk, over the phone on 0131 225 5525 or at 14- 16 Grassmarket, Edinburgh, EH1 2JU.

EXCEL SPORTS ACTIVITY CAMP Excel Sports Academy are running a great activity package this Easter holidays. Based at St George's School For Girls in Murrayfield. Excel will be offering 2nd- 5th April activity camp including: The Rock School - learn to jam like a Rock god; Dance Dynamnics - create a dance music video; Lego Robotics - build and program your own robot monster! With all of this included in the price your children will be guaranteed to have "excellent fun". Camp open 5yrs -14yrs, 8am - 6pm. As part of the Care Commission Excel accepts all types of Childcare Vouchers. Booking at www.excel-sports.co.uk, email fun@excel- sports.co.uk, Tel 07970 514 514.

EASTER HOLIDAY WORKSHOPS AT DOODLES

Easter Egg Extravaganza Tuesday 26th March- Paint an egg box or bowl to leave out for the Easter Bunny. 10.30 - 12pm. £11 Animal Magic on Wednesday 27th March and 3rd April.

Make a clay model of your fa vourite animal. 10.30 12pm, £12.50 All through the Easter holidays Doodles will have an egg hunt in the shop. Find all 10 hidden eggs and you will receive a wee Easter surprise! Doodles, Marchmont Crescent, Edinburgh 0131 229 1399

EASTER MUSIC BUGS SESSIONS Music Bugs East Edinburgh will be running themed Easter sessions from 1st – 5th April. Please check our website for more details www.musicbugs.co.uk/classes/ edinburgheast.php or email Hilary (hilary@musicbugs.co.uk) to find out more.

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EASTER CLUBS CLASSES & ACTIVITIES DRAMA STUDIO SPRING HOLIDAY CLUB BOOKING NOW! We are running our very popular Spring Holiday Club at Liberton Kirk Halls, Liberton, Kirkgate, Edinburgh from 1st - 5th April suitable for students aged 4-14 y ears.

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.

Go to www.thedramastudio.com or call 0131-453-3284 for full details and to register. Weekly EARLY BIRD RATES (Includes £10 discount - until 1st March) Fee Rate - £115 Full days, £65 Mornings, £50 Afternoons E-Mail info@thedramastudio.com

EASTER SCHOOL 2013 LAMP HOUSE MUSIC

Lamp House Music offers Music Lessons, Pop Star Birthday Parties, Babies & Tots classes and Music Schools for children. Set in a delightful converted railway building this Easter School promises a fun-packed, creative week in an inspiring, musical environment with a welcoming team of music professionals. Children become part of a five piece band, have master classes in song writing, guitar and drums and by the end of the week will have written, rehearsed and recorded an entire song! Each child leaves a proud owner of a CD containing their own track and their band photo on the cover . Music Schools are fantastic confidence boosters, encourage social skills and provide a real sense of achievement, as well as being hugely enjoyable! Lamp House Music’ s Easter School runs from Monday 25th to Friday 29th March 2013. 9.30am to 2.30pm each day. £125 for week. Booking now open. No music experience necessar y. Age 10+ For more infor mation and to book: 01620 825630 or info@ lamphousemusic.co.uk www.lamphousemusic.co.uk Lamp House Music is based in Haddington, East Lothian, just outside Edinburgh easily accessible off the A1. The Lamp House, Station Yard, Hospital Road, Haddington, East Lothian, EH41 3PP

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SASCS WILL BE OPERATING EASTER HOLIDAY CARE 8.30am-5.30pm, in Sciennes Primar y School, 10 Sciennes Road, EH9 1LG on the follo wing dates: Monday 25th to Thursday 28th March Tuesday 2nd to Friday 5th April Holiday Care is available to all primar y 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 - £19.00; Half Day - £11.50; Trip Day - £24.00.

For more information and booking for ms phone Sonia and Lindsey on 0131 662 4810 or email sascs@ btinternet.com SASCS is the tr ading name of Sciennes School After School Care Scheme, Registered Scottish Charity Number: SCO23891.

KIDSCENE AFTER SCHOOL CLUB Kidscene After School Club is expanding its ser vices to include a Holiday Club for the Easter, Summer and October holiday breaks! Based at the Ro yal Blind Sc hool’s Canaan Lane Campus in Mor ningside, Kidscene provides after school care for children attending the both Ro yal Blind School and several local Schools in the area.

Safe, secure, relaxed and fun environment for children aged 4-16.

There are a variety of facilities on offer to suit children of all ages and abilities, including an arts and crafts room, playroom, quiet/chill out room, soft play area, swimming pool, sensory garden and enclosed outdoor play areas.

Kidscene is operated by a team of dedicated, qualified and registered staff.

Royal Blind is the Edinburgh-based charity whose mission it is to build a community in which blind and visuallyimpaired individuals are fully included and lead fulfilling lives. The unique integration and quality of ser vice provided

by Kidscene has already proved popular . One parent’s reaction: “There is a good mix of children with and without additional support needs with no segregation. The premises are ideal, and our child enjoys choosing activities and joining in with the general play. ” Kidscene’s Holiday Club is open from Monday-Friday (08: 30-17:30) and costs £21 per child for a full day and £12 for a half day (8.30-1pm or 1pm-5.30pm). For further infor mation, please contact Kidscene Manager Lisa Donoghue on 07785 618 832.

EDINBURGH DANCE ACADEMY Edinburgh Dance Academy are very excited to be running an Easter Dance workshop. This year we are having workshops in Hip Hop and Commercial Jazz. The day will run from 10.00am - 3.00pm at Broughton High School and will conclude with a show of work for parents and friends to come and watch. Everyone from the age of 5+ is welcome to come along and join the fun. We have two studios to enable two groups split by age to work at the same time either on Commercial Jazz or Hip Hop before swapping over . What better way to end the Easter break!!

Please call Suzie to book your place on 0131 3373402.

EASTER CLUBS CLASSES & ACTIVITIES EASTER ARTSPARKS Easter Artsparks 9th and 10th April will be a seasonal two day workshop looking at spring themes in the Artland like nest building and new life. We will study how artists have worked with these themes and do some fun activities based on a range of artists’ work. 5-14 year olds, children will be taught in groups by age. 10am to 3.30pm - £40 per day including materials sibling discount available Jupiter Artland, Bonnington House Steadings, Wilkieston, Edinburgh 01506 889900 www.jupiterartland.org

EDINBURGH MONTESSORI ARTS SCHOOL

Holiday Clubs at EMAS . We are very pleased to be hosting our popular holiday prog ramme for 4 – 7 y ear olds. Two weeks of creative arts fun. £95 per week.

Travel to the tropical rainforests for a week of exciting sensory art, music and drama experiences with our artist in residence 25th –29th March. Music making with our musician in residence - 1st – 5thApril; Explore music, songs, storytelling and movement.

Edinburgh Montessori Arts School Mill House Tower Mains Studio 18N Liberton Brae, Edinburgh EH16 6AE 0131 446 0777 www.emaschool.co.uk

ACTING OUT UK EASTER DRAMA CAMP The camp is open to all pupils aged between 7-19 (approx).

A variety of performing arts will be covered, including acting, singing,improvisation and dancing. We will aim to keep the Child and Teen ages separate. There will also be a small performance at the end of the week (on the Friday) for family and friends.

Dates: Wednesday 3rd April 2013 - Friday 5th April 2013 (three days) Times: 11am - 2:30pm Venue: Augustine Centre, George IV Bridge, EH1 1EL Price: £75 Special Offer! Sign up befor e March 20th and pay only £65. www.actingoutuk.com clare@actingoutuk.com / 07704 714 607

MORTONHALL TENNIS CLUB EASTER CAMPS Easter Tennis Camp 25-29 March and 1-5 April Camps now in their 9th year!

The camps will be run by Dan Murray (Senior Club Coach).

Each week will be broken down into 2 groups: 10am – 11.55am Mini Tennis Camp (Approx. 5-9 Years) £37.50 Members / £47.50 Non Members 1pm – 4pm Junior Tennis Camp (Approx.10-16 Years) £57.50 Members / £67.50 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

EDINBURGH LEISURE The school holidays are a great chance for children to try out new sports, as well as pursuing their favourite ones. Our school holiday camps tick all the boxes for families’ holiday needs: a break for the parents, fun for the kids, and a chance to have a go at new activities. They can switch off the TV or video game, come along with old friends, or meet new ones.

Where to start with our holiday camps, given the huge choice available? Our Activator camps offer a full day of fun and a chance for kids aged 5-15 to pack in a busy programme of games, sports coaching, swimming and arts and crafts. And then there are more specific activities. They can tr y out watersports at Port Edgar, or take to the ropes at EICA:Ratho.

There’s football, swimming, dance, tennis – even fencing, triathlon, and many more... holiday boredom solved. www.edinburghleisure.co.uk

CHILDREN’S CLAY COURSE AT HONEY POT CERAMICS Easter Holiday Activity Monday 25th March – Friday 12th April Over the Easter holidays we will be running a clay course each week especially for children from 10.30-12 noon every day. This year we have a wonderful “under the sea theme”. Children will be shown a range of handbuilding techniques and will learn how to glaze and finish their own pieces as well as throwing on the wheel. Places are limited so booking is essential. Suitable for age 5+ Price £60 for 5 sessions or £15 each. Based at EICA Ratho. 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

SASCS will be operating Eater Holiday Care, 8.30am - 5.30pm, in Sciennes Primary School, 10 Sciennes Road, EH9 1LG on the following dates:

Week 1

Monday 25th to Thursday 28th March

Week 2

Tuesday 2nd to Friday 5th 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 Pro vision is run by experienced and qualified staff.

Costs are very competitive: Full Day - £19.00 Half Day - £11.50; Trip Day - £24.00.

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

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Ou&tAbout

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 a void any disappointment before setting out. If you ha ve any events you would like listed free in this section please email them to editor@familiesedinburgh.co.uk

Friday 1 March Zoo Tots The fun-filled fantastic series of pre-school events is back and will run every Friday until 19th April 2013. Taking place in the Zoo’ s Jungle food court Zoo Tots is perfect for those playful youngsters aged six months to five years old to tr y their hand at some great new activities and learn whilst having fun.

All activities are available on a first come first ser ve basis.

A £2 admission per child will be charged to help continue this programme of events. Zoo admission also applies.

Edinburgh Zoo, Corstorphine Road. For full prog ramme and times go to www.edinburghzoo.org.uk

Saturday 2 - Sunday 3 March Twig Detectives 1.00 pm - 4.00 pm, Real Life Science Studio , John Hope Gateway, No booking required, Ages 5+, (Free) Discover how the clues provided by buds and bark can help us to recognise trees in winter. Have a go at being a tree sleuth with our identification challenge and make a stick character to take home. Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh

Friday 8 March Tea Dance Stomp: International Women’s Day 6.30pm (2hrs 30) | £6/£4 (£16 – Family of 4) Take to the floor and celebrate women across the world! Try out a foxtrot and follow it with a Gay Gordons! An evening of light-hearted fripper y, dancing, tea and cakes.

With live music from Edinburgh’s own Belle Star all women dance band, expert tuition in dances from caller CathyWood and drinks and food on sale from the Stor ytelling Cafe.

Dress to impress, all welcome!

Scottish Storytelling Centre Box Office 0131 556 9579 www.scottishstorytellingcentre.co.uk

2 - 3 March Mini Makers - Curly Birds. Have you noticed the shags on Craigleith sporting beautiful crests recently? Come and make your own curly bird from paper to take home! 14:00-15:00, included with entr y into the Discovery Centre. Fun ‘make and do’ sessions for kids age 4 to 8. Scottish Seabird Centre , The Harbour, North Berwick, EH39 4SS 01620 890202. Entry to the Discovery Centre is £7.95 for adults, £4.95 for children and £5.95 for concessions. Prices from 1 March will be £8.95 for adults, £4.95 for children and £6.95 for concessions. Under 3’s are free. Family tickets are also available. Book tickets online in advance at www.seabird.org Saturday 2nd March The Jack & Jill Market 10.30am - 1.30pm. 50 stalls of quality nearly-new baby & kids clothes, cots, toys, buggies, bikes and much more! (09 yrs). Snap up great BARGAINS and save £££. Adults £1 Edinburgh Conference Centre, Heriot Watt, Riccarton EH14 4AS. To book a stall visit: www.jackandjillmarket.co.uk Saturday March 2nd Bruntsfield Indoor Market Market Tree Events are pleased to announce that they will be bringing Brunstfield its first regular indoor food, crafts & gift markets on the 1st and 3rd Saturday’s of the month at Morningside United Church (219 Bruntsfield Place, Edinburgh, EH10 4DH). The markets are open between 114.30pm. There will be on a rotating basis a fantastic mix of organic fruit, veg & eggs, flowers, jams, chutneys, preserves, sauces, breads, hams, cheeses, olives as well as lovely crafts and gifts; jeweller y, hats, scarves, soaps, candles, books, toys, clothes, prints, artworks and much much more!! www.MarketTreeEvents.com Saturday 2 March The Story Kist: Inclusive Storytelling 11am (1hr) £5/£3. Bring your wellies for some wild and wet March tales with stor ytellers Ailie Finlay and Marie Louise Cochrane. Multi-sensory stories and games with props and puppets and plenty of joining-in and stomping! Scottish Storytelling Centre Box Office 0131 556 9579 www.scottishstorytellingcentre.co.uk

Friday 8th March Celebrate International Women’s Day with Resolve How can we keep well and keep on juggling? Hear from a range of ordinar y but extraordinar y women, have a pamper , enjoy a glass of bubbly and delicious lunch. Above all else, have FUN! Bring your friends, meet new ones, network, be inspired and learn something new. Meet our host, former Corporate Lawyer and now award winning Mumpreneur Anna Louise Simpson - AKA “Mama Tea”. Merchants Hall, Hanover Street Edinburgh 10am - 3pm. Tickets £60 per person. Group discount available for groups of 6.

Contact us on 0131 718 6003 or support@resolvescotland.org.uk www.resolvescotland.org.uk

3 March Little Seedlings Club: Mothers in the Wild Discover the weird and wonderful acts undertaken by the mothers of wild creatures. From spiders and birds to seahorses and monkeys, motherly love is shown in surprising ways. Paint a plant pot or make a garden wind chime to give to your mum this Mothers Day. Dobbies Garden World, Melville Nurser y, Lasswade, Midlothian, EH18 1AZ Sunday 3 March Art Cart (Ages 4-12) 2-4pm Make your own masterpiece with artists Tessa Asquith-Lamb and Paula Flavell. 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 5 March Tiny Tales: From Hare to There 10am & 11.30am (40mins). £5 per child. For ages 1-3yrs.

Spring into spring with Easter bunny fun for young ones,with storyteller Renita Boyle and her stor y parachute! Plenty of joining in fun for toddlers to enjoy interacting with tales.

Scottish Storytelling Centre Box Office 0131 556 9579 www.scottishstorytellingcentre.co.uk

Saturday 9th March Edinburgh and Lothians Twins and Multiples Club Nearly New Sale. 10-11.30am.

St Stephens Comely Bank Church, EH4 1DW. Baby & child clothes, toys & equipment. Entry £1 per person. Enjoy a cuppa & delicious homebaking after shopping! Early entry for ELTMC members at 9.45am. Open to all from 10am. If you would like to sell, please contact chair@edinburghtwins.co.uk.

9th March Stress Buster Day at Knotstressed Therapy tasters, workshops and classes at ver y reduced prices or even free. There's will also be further discounts available to anyone who comes along on the day. KnotStressed Clinic, 10a Blenheim Place, Edinburgh EH7 5JH You can find the full programme at www.knotstressed.com Saturday 9 March It's a Pirate's Life for Me 2pm (1hr). £5 per child. Ages 3+. Marie Louise Cochrane and Angie Townsend bring participative and interactive tales, songs and fun for all the family . Come dressed as a pirate or bring a parrot and become one of their motley crew for the day, but beware for they might make you walk the plank!

Scottish Storytelling Centre Box Office 0131 556 9579 www.scottishstorytellingcentre.co.uk Saturday 9 March Fairtrade Event 10.30am – 2.30pm.

Come and enjoy a special free event for all ages to celebrate Edinburgh, our Fairtrade City. Live music , Fair Trade stalls, Free refreshments, Sculpture –making, Scotmid smoothie bike, Presentation of The Lord Provost’s Fair Trade Awards 2013 Out of the Blue, 36, Dalmeny Street, Edinburgh

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All these events and more can be found on our website www.familiesedinburgh.co.uk

9 - 10 March Mini Makers - Jiggling Jellyfish Celebrate the beginning of spring by making a windsock with a difference for your garden. 14:00-15:00, included with entry into the Discover y Centre. Fun ‘make and do’ sessions for kids age 4 to 8. Scottish Seabird Centre,The Harbour, North Berwick. 01620 890202. For entr y prices or to book online go to www.seabird.org Saturday 9th March Parent & Child Cup Cake Decorating Class. Come along and have fun together learning some lovely techniques to take home 4 beautifully decorated cup cakes, with Rosie’s Kitchen. Price £18 each.

Booking essential Or simply drop into the studio at any time and we’ll help you make a lovely gift for Mothers’ Day .

Based at EICA Ratho. www.honeypotceramics.com Sunday 10 March Portrait Detectives! (Ages 4-12) 24pm Collect your kit, follow clues and solve a mystery from history! Supported by the friends of the National Galleries of Scotland. Scottish National Portrait Gallery

16 - 17 March Mini Makers - Rockpool Rascals Crazy crabs and stunning starfish that sit on your finger. Join us to make these wonderful finger puppets with a difference!

14:00-15:00, included with entry into the Discovery Centre.

Fun ‘make and do’ sessions for kids age 4 to 8. Scottish Seabird Centre,The Harbour, North Berwick. 01620 890202. For entr y prices or to book online go to www.seabird.org Sunday 17th March The Jack & Jill Market 10.30am – 1.30pm 60 stalls of quality, nearly-new baby & kids clothes, cots, toys, buggies, bikes, and all the rest (0-9 yrs). Snap up great BARGAINS and save £££. Adults £1 Meadowbank Leisure Centre, London Rd, Edinburgh, EH6 7AE. To book a stall visit: www.jackandjillmarket.co.uk Sunday 17 March Talking Trees Storytelling 2.00 pm - 2.45 pm, Patrick Geddes Room, First Floor, John Hope Gateway, No booking r equired, 5+. Let the Talking Trees transport you to another place with their stories from around the world. Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh

Sunday 10 March Mother’s Day Free cuppa and a biscuit for mum! Maddie & Mark’ s Play Town at Ocean Terminal www.maddieandmarks.co.uk

Sunday 10 March Mothering Sunday Cream Tea We will help you celebrate how wonderful your Mum is in style!

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 £3.25 – now doesn’t that sound delicious?

Booking Essential Based at EICA Ratho . www.honeypotceramics.com Saturday 16 March - Snails and Puppy Dogs’ Tails Museum of Edinburgh. Drop in event At this free workshop you will make a length of French knitting and use it (and other pieces of fibre) to create a hedgehog, a dog, a snail.10.30am - 12.30pm Saturday 16 - Sunday 17 March Plant Hunt 1.00 pm 4.00 pm, Real Life Science Studio, John Hope Gateway, No booking required, Ages 5+, (Free). Join the plant hunt and collect your own specimen. Then see if you can match it to one of the reference specimens to get an identification.

We will have microscopes on hand to help you examine the plants for clues. Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh 16 & 17 March Dunbar SciFest This year’s extended programme is fantastic, with over 40 event providers delivering an incredible range of science shows, workshops, drop-in sessions, talks and films.

There are events to suit teenagers and even storytelling for the wee ones. Some of the shows are presented in British Sign Language and all the shows will be BSL/English interpreted. 10am - 5pm in the John Muir Campus of Dunbar Primar y School and the new Bleachingfield Community Centre. Family tickets cost just £10. www.dunbarscifest.org.uk

Come and try your hand at jewellery, glass and potter's wheel, 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

Sunday 10 March Mothering Sunday Bring your mum to the studio - you can enjoy some time together and mum gets a £5 discount. Potter Around, Overton Far m, Kirknewton 01506 238961 10th March Mothering Sunday Bring Mum or Granny along to paint with another family member or more and receive a glass of bubbly and 20% off your bill! Booking essential. please call Doodles on 0131 229 1399. 29 Marchmont Crescent. Don't forget Doodles is the perfect place to paint something special and personal for Mum, or even surprise her with a gift voucher so she can enjoy a relaxing vistit to doodles and a cup of tea!

Pottery Painting & Craft Studio

Do you want to feel your best? ©Alicia Bruce

Sunday 17 March Bags of Art (Ages 4-12) 2-4pm. Cool and creative fun with artists Tessa Asquith-Lamb and Louise Fraser. Supported by the Friends of the National Galleries of Scotland. Scottish National Galler y of Modern Art Two

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18 March Tickets go on sale for 2013 Imaginate Festival The Imaginate Festival is Scotland’ s international festival of performing arts for children and young people and runs from Monday 6 to Monday 13 May at venues across Edinburgh.

Please visit Imaginate’s website for full details of the 2013 Imaginate Festival programme and how to book your tickets. www.imaginate.org.uk/festival

Tel: 07964 595589 Email:louise.armour@live.co.uk Member of SMTO, Disclosure Scotland

Thursday March 21st The Real Nappy Projects Nappuccino 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 in partnership with Anna Grant a Fill Your Pants nappy retailer . Brands available are Little Lambs; Tots Bots; Bright Bots; Grovia; Smartipants; Fuzzibunz and Cheeky Wipes.

• 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.

Duncan Place Resource Centre, Duncan Place (just off Duke St, Leith), Edinburgh, EH6 8HW 23 March Edinburgh Steiner School Secondhand Bike Sale 9:30 - 12:00. If you have a bicycle (kids or adults), a trike, trailer or equipment to sell, please bring along form 8 am onwards and we will sell it for you (20% of sales will go to school funds). ESS, 60 Spylaw Road.

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these events and morecan canbe be found found on AllAll these events and more on

23 March Sleepover Under The Stars This spring, treat your family to a once-in-a-lifetime sleepover experience at the Scottish National Portrait Gallery! Take part in exciting hands-on art activities and a galler y treasure hunt, hear a bedtime stor y in the cosy librar y and then settle down for the night in the Great Hall under the magnificent ceiling of stars!

Tickets include a delicious ‘midnight’ snack and a reviving hot breakfast!

The sleepover is suitable for children aged 7-11 yrs with accompanying adults (maximum 6 children per adult).

Tickets cost £35 per person, to find out mor e visit: nationalgalleries.org/sleepovers Saturday 23 March Eureka! Ancient Greece and its Brilliant Scientific Disco veries 11am (45mins) | £6/£4 | 3-5yrs. A celebration of science from ancient Greece! Storyteller and puppeteer Carolyne Latham and her friendly little dog invite everyone to travel back in time with them to discover the stories behind the science. Scottish Storytelling Centre Box Office 0131 556 9579 www.scottishstorytellingcentre.co.uk Saturday 23 - Sunday 24 March Children's Spring Flower Show 11.00 am - 5.00 pm, Real Life Science Studio , John Hope Gatew ay, No booking r equired, All ages, (Free) 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 hands-on activities.

With the Royal Caledonian Horticultural Society. Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh

23 March - 7 April The Edinburgh International Science Festival With interactive events, workshops and explorations happening all over the city you’ll f ind a great day out for the whole family.

Saturday 23 March – Saturday 6 April (not Sundays), 9.30am-4.30pm City Art Centre, Market Street. Workshops and activities for children of all ages.

Saturday 23 Mar ch – Sunday 14 April, 10am-5pm National Museum of Scotland, Chambers Street. Workshops, events and activities for all ages. Dates and prices v ary.

Saturday 23 Mar ch – Sunday 7 April, 10am-6pm Ro yal Botanic Gar den Edinburgh, Inverleith Row Visit www.sciencefestival.co.uk for full programme information and online booking Box office: 0844 557 2686. Adult £7/Adult concession £6.50/Child aged 7+ £9/Child aged 3-6 £6.50/Child under 3 FREE/Registered unemployed £5 23 March to 7 April

Professor Egghead’s Just in Time!

©Rob McDougall

WIN!

(Daily show) Professor Egghead has discovered giant bird bones outside the Seabird Centre and is on the hunt for answers. What did the bones belong to? Why were they there? Is this proof that dinosaurs didn’t really die out? Join the Professor for an interactive adventure in the Wildlife Theatre to discover if there was once something much larger than a gannet lurking around North Berwick. 14:0015:00, included with entr y into the Discovery Centre: adults £8.95, kids £4.95, under 3s free. The Harbour, North Berwick, EH39 4SS , 01620 890202 www.seabird.org

We have two family passes (two adults and up to two children) to see Professor Egghead’s show Just in Time which takes place in the Wildlife Theatre. Not only will the winners get the chance to see the show for free but they will also have free access to the Discovery Centre for a whole day. Each pass is worth £25 and is valid between 23 March and 7 April.

Enter online at www.familiesedinburgh.co.uk/win 34 FAMILIES EDINBURGH ISSUE 77

nnour ourwebsite websitewww.familiesedinburgh.co.uk www.familiesedinburgh.co.uk 23 March - 13 April Puppet Animation Festival 2013

The Puppet Animation Festival is the UK’s largest and longest established annual performing arts event for children – since 2000 over 190,000 people have attended Held in venues across Scotland in March and April, offers children and their families opportunities to be transported to magical worlds of make-believe. For full details of all the shows and venues go to www.puppetanimationfestival.org 23 - 25 March Puppet Animation Festival at The Scottish Storytelling Centre www.scottishstorytellingcentre.co.uk 23 March Celeste’s Circus 2pm & 3.30pm For up to 5 y ears. As an endearing cast of animals take to the stage, it feels like you've come out of your seat and right into the circus ring!

25 March Faerie Stories 3pm. For ages 6 - 11yrs. An inspired sharing of ancient Gaelic fairy tales alongside the unique culture and language that gave rise to them.

26 March - 5 April Puppet Animation Festival at The Brunton Theatre 26 March - Clydebuilt Puppet Theatre: Rapunzel 2pm. For ages 4+. Narrated by a wonderful frog this adaptation has all the elements of the traditional tale.

The Brunton, Musselburgh.

27 March Puppet Lab: Each Peach Pear Plumb 2pm. Ages 3 - 7. With songs and music the production brings to life a variety of nurser y rhyme characters played by a wide range of puppets. The Bleachingfield Centre, Dunbar.

28 March Mousetale Puppets: Oscar & the Deep Sea Pearl 11am. Ages 4+. Fastpaced, energetic, musical and humorous, this is an established family favourite, presented in Mousetale Puppets’ colourful glow-in-the-dark style. North Berwick Community Centre 2 April The Folding Puppet Company: Briar Rose 11am. For ages 5+. Based upon the Brothers Grimm version of Sleeping Beauty . Prestonpans Community Centr e, Preston Road 3 April Puppet Theatre Maribor: When Shlemiel went to Warsaw 2pm. For ages ages 4+ At home the lazybones and dreamer Shlemiel keeps an eye on the children and dreams of the big outside world. Haddington Corn Exchange, Main Street 5 April Lempen Puppet Theatre Company: The Fisherman and the Pearl 11am For ages 5+. This is the stor y of a fisherman’s love, and a precious gift which gives him knowledge of the creatures below the waves. Longniddry Community Centre, Seton Road Tickets available from The Brunton Box Office on 0131 665 2240 or www.thebrunton.co.uk Sunday 24th March The Jack & Jill Market 10.30am-1.30pm 40 stalls of quality nearlynew baby & kids clothes, cots, toys, buggies, bikes and much more! (0-9 yrs). Snap up great BARGAINS and save £££. Adults £1 West Lothian College , Almondvale Crescent, Livingston EH54 7EP. To book a stall visit: www.jackandjillmarket.co.uk Sunday 24 March Meet the Ancestors - Indian Stories and Henna Hand Art (Ages 4-12) 2pm & 3pm (45 mins) Hear stories from India told by Saeema Hayat, with henna hand art by Nila Joshi. Scottish National Portrait Gallery 25th March - Toots Play Cafe Opens Edinburghs first under 5's play cafe offers fun and stimulation playtime for little ones set in a safe, clean environment where children are free to explore and adults can sit back and relax with their children in sight at all times. Follow Toots Play Cafe on facebook for details of opening offers. 227 Gilmerton Road

27th March Breakfast with the Easter Bunny To celebrate Easter, the Easter Bunny will hop in to Maddie and Marks Play Town. He might even have an egg or two to hand out! Booking essential - 0131 555 1900 or parties@maddieandmarks.co .uk.

There’s also a chance to hold some live chicks from around Wednesday 27th March, (it may be worth calling before you visit to see if they’ve hatched).

28th March Supper with the Easter Bunny at Maddie and Marks Play Town He might even have an egg or two to hand out! Booking essential - 0131 555 1900 or parties@maddieandmarks.co.uk.

Friday 29th March Chocolate Making Workshops Mmmm...come along to our hour long chocolate workshops, where children can make their own chocolate goodies – just in time for Easter!. Workshops will be led by Chocolate expert Charlotte Flower . Price £10 per head. Booking essential. Based at EICA Ratho www.honeypotceramics.com

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Ou&tAbout Friday 29th March - Monday 1st April Easter Teddy Bears Picnic 9:30 am – 11am. If you go down to Dobbies today you’re in for a big surprise! Come and join us for a Teddy Bears Picnic where we’ll be telling stories and having breakfast with the Easter Bunny!

There’ll be a scavenger event in store and ever y child will receive an Easter Egg. Booking essential. For prices and mor e information go to www.dobbies.com 29 March – 14 April Pisces 10am-5pm. Science Festival 2013: see the humble balloon transformed as this spectacular installation takes over the Museum’ s Grand Gallery. Free www.sciencefestival.co.uk National Museum of Scotland

these events and morecan canbe be found found on AllAll these events and more on Saturday 30 March Highland Storypanels – Children's Workshop 2pm (1hr). £4 per child. For ages 4+ Join Lizzie McDougall for an afternoon of stories, arts and crafts inspired

by Highland Stories, plus you can make a wee hanging to take home to help you remember the tales!

The Exhibition runs until Sat 13 April. www.scottishstorytellingcentre.co.uk 30 March Ship Ahoy! Everyone likes to play with water but when you can't make it to the seaside you can sail these boats instead! 10.30am - 12.30pm or 1.30pm - 3.30pm.

Free drop in w orkshop at The Museum of Childhood.

With artist Lindsey Hamilton. Suitable for age 5+; booking not required.

Sat 30 March – Sun 7 April Easter Egg Hunt 11:0015:00 Search for hidden Easter eggs in the Palace grounds! Learn about the histor y of the gardens, see where The Queen holds her annual garden party and make your own Easter egg to take home! Included in price of admission Adult £11. Over 60/Student £10. Under 17 £6.65 Under 5 Free. Family (2 adults, 3 under 17s) £ 29.25.

Advance tickets are a vailable from 01315565100 or www.royalcollection.org.uk. Families can also enjo y free re-admission for a y ear if tic kets are bought directly at the palace and they need to be v alidated on the first visit.

Friday 29th Mar ch – Monday 15th 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 (29th, 30th, 31st Mar ch and 1st April), including our famous plastic duck race along the mill lade.

Almond Valley Heritage Centre, Livingston www.almondvalley.org.uk Easter Weekend at Potter Around. Easter Egg hunt with lots of fun and games. 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.

Potter Around, Overton Farm, Kirknewton chat@potteraround.co.uk 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......keep an eye on our web site or facebook pages for more details. Based at EICA Ratho. www.honeypotceramics.com 30th March Easter fun day at Treehouse 10am 2pm. Easter Bunny, Face-painting, Competitions, Easter Treats 10 -12 Hamilton Place, Stockbridge Saturday 30 March Can a Painting Make a Sound?

(Ages 5+) 10.30am; 11.30am; 2pm & 3pm.Find out with the Scottish Chamber Orchestra Scottish National Portrait Gallery

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Easter Sunday 31st March Eastereggstravaganza From 1.00pm. Easter Fun at Traquair with egg hunts in the maze, children’s activities and workshops.

Thousands of eggs to be found and lots of other Easter prizes. There will be over 5,000 mini eggs hidden in the Traquair Maze for under 10's which covers nearly half an acre at the back of the house.Then, there are a further 1,000 eggs for little egg hunters (under 5's) in the Old Walled Garden and many more larger eggs to be won on treasure and scavenger hunts throughout the house and grounds.The event starts at 1.00pm. Adults £5.00 Children £4.00 and under 5’s free. Traquair House is open to the public but at an additional cost. Traquair House, Innerleithen, Peeblesshire EH44 6PW www.traquair.co.uk

Ou&tAbout

nour ourwebsite websitewww.familiesedinburgh.co.uk www.familiesedinburgh.co.uk

Wednesday 3 - Satur day 6 April April Fools! (Ages 412) 2pm & 3pm Meet Jim the Jester, record your favourite jokes and get creative with art activities to make you laugh!

Scottish National Portrait Gallery Wednesday 3rd April – Friday 31st May 2013 Edinburgh Zoo Centenary Exhibition Edinburgh's Central Library will host a special exhibition looking back at the last 100 years of Edinburgh Zoo. Packed with photos, memorabilia and stories this is a fantastic opportunity to find out how the Zoo has grown and changed over the last century. The exhibition, which is in partnership with Edinburgh City Libraries, will be open from 3rd April to 31st May 2013 at the Central Librar y, George IV Bridge. This exhibition is free to view and will be open during the library’s normal opening hours. From June the e xhibition will move to Edinburgh Zoo.

Monday 1st – Friday 12th April (week days only) Afternoon Tea with the Hamleys Bunny Bear this Easter! How would you like to have Afternoon Tea with the Hamleys Bunny Bear? Join us this Easter as the Wonderlicious fun begins! We will take you on an adventure through our magical toy shop to the Easter Party Room where we will ser ve up a wide variety of treats from chocolate eggs to yummy muffins.

You’ll even get to decorate your very own Millies Cookie!

Listen to his bunny tales and join in the arts & crafts activities and games. Why not bring your own bear along and we will show you how to make your ver y own bunny bear. You can take part in our Easter egg hunt and also have the opportunity to have your photo taken with Bunny Bear .

Before you leave each child will receive a special Hamleys Easter goodie bag!

But wait...there’s more!!

We have a live petting farm in store, a visit from a surprise Sylvanian Families character and thousands of Scrumpalicious sweets! There are so many reasons to spend your Easter holidays at the finest toy shop in the world!

For all details on ho w to book your place visit www.hamleys.com/glasgow or for mor e information email glasgowparty@hamleys.co.uk or call 08717 042 990 and ask to speak to a member of the Events Team.

Hamleys, St Enoch Centre Glasgow Tuesday 2 & Wednesday 3 April Journey through Time to the Enchanted Land of the Harps 10am (5-8yrs) & 2pm (9-14yrs) (1hr 15) | £9 per child (accompanying adult free) Join stor yteller and harpist Heather Yule on an adventure mystery walk around the Scottish Stor ytelling Centre. A journey of stories and riddles through the OldTown of Edinburgh brings you into the mists of time, where you can discover the hidden harps and learn to play a simple tune! Part of the Edinburgh International Harp Festival. 20% discount on Child Beginner Courses (Sat 6 & Sun 7 April) when you purchase a ticket for this event.

For more information visit www.harpfestival.co.uk

Saturday 6th April Sumatran Tiger Birthday from 9am-5pm (Enrichment will be added to the enclosures at some point during the day). Head along to Edinburgh Zoo and help say a big Happy Birthday to female Sumatran tiger Baginda as she celebrates her 10th birthday on Saturday 6th April and watch as this tiger girl tears into her exciting birthday themed enrichment! This event is free with Zoo admission. Edinburgh Zoo, Corstorphine Road, Edinburgh. www.edinburghzoo.org.uk Saturday 6th April The Jack & Jill Market 10.30am1.30pm 50 stalls of quality nearly-new baby & kids clothes, cots, toys, buggies, bikes and much more! (0-9 yrs) Snap up great BARGAINS and save £££. Adults £1 Edinburgh Conference Centre, Heriot Watt, Riccarton EH14 4AS. To book a stall visit: www.jackandjillmarket.co.uk Saturday 6 April Mini Old Town Gardens Museum of Edinburgh. Free drop in. Create a tiny model garden in a box using lovely papers and shiny card.

10.30am 12.30pm or 1.30pm - 3.30pm Sunday 7 April Art Cart (Ages 4-12) 2-4pm Make your own masterpiece with artists Tessa Asquith-Lamb and Paula Flavell. 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

Friday 5 - Sunday 7 April Dora the Explorer LIVE! Search for the City of Lost Toys Dora has lost her teddy bear Osito, and the search is on to retrieve him! With the help of the audience, Map, Backpack, Boots, Diego and their courageous friends, Dora uses her map-reading, counting, musical and language skills to successfully pass through the number pyramid and the mixed-up jungle to reach the City of Lost Toys. But watch out - you never know what that sneaky fox Swiper might be up to along the way!

Kings Theatre Edinburgh. Box Office 0131 529 6000* Groups (8+) 0131 529 6005 www.edtheatres.com *Bkg Fee

WIN!

4 tickets to see Dora the Explorer LIVE! Search for the City of Lost Toys at the King’s Theatre Edinburgh, Friday 5 to Sunday 7 April 2013.

Enter online at

www.familiesedinburgh.co.uk/win

and tell us the name of Dora’s teddy bear and which day you would like to see the show. t & c apply.

Saturday 6th April Greenbank Scout Group Annual Jumble Sale Four Halls full of bar gains! 9.30am - 12 noon. At this annual event, one of the best jumble sales in Edinburgh, they usually have some quality items including baby items, clothing, toys, children’s and adults books – and a huge range of bric a brac, small furniture, adult clothing etc. Admission £2. Greenbank Church, Braidburn Terrace, Edinburgh, EH10 6ES

7 April Little Seedlings Club: The Enormous Turnip Deep below the ground you’ll find lots of yummy vegetables like onions, potatoes, carrots and turnips. Listen to a stor y about an enormous turnip and plant your ver y own which you can eat in just a few weeks! Dobbies Garden World, Melville Nursery, Lasswade, Midlothian, EH18 1AZ Sunday 7 April, Edinburgh Mini Maker Faire, (Summerhall) 10am-5pm Science Festiv al 2013: Scotland’s making and crafting community share their ideas and inspiration with demonstrations, talks and workshops throughout the day. £2.50. More information and online booking at www.sciencefestival.co.uk Box office: 0844 557 2686 Sunday 7th April Enrichment Day from 11am-3pm.

Enrichment is a huge part of all the animals’ lives at Edinburgh Zoo, so why not come along to the Zoo and learn more about animal enrichments and its role. Watch a few of the animal residents tackle unique environmental enrichment. There will also be a programme of events taking place throughout the day, where visitors can catch a glimpse of animals investigating the new additions, which help stimulate and encourage natural behaviours. Keepers will be on hand to explain animal behaviours and why enrichment is vital part of their health and wellbeing.Visitors can also take the chance to make some enrichment objects and watch the animals as they interact with the items.There will even be some enrichment for kids as they take part in the scavenger hunt! This event is free with Zoo admission and is part of the Edinburgh International Science Festival.

Edinburgh Zoo, Corstrophine Road, Edinburgh. www.edinburghzoo.org.uk

Easter at the Palace of Holyroodhouse

Easter Egg Hunt Sat 30 March - Sun 7 April 11:00 – 15:00 Search for hidden Easter eggs in the Palace grounds!

Learn about the history of the gardens, see where The Queen holds her annual garden party and make your own Easter egg to take home!

For full details visit www.royalcollection.org.uk/learning 37 FAMILIES EDINBURGH ISSUE 77

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All these events and more canAll bethese foundevents on our and website www.familiesedinbu more can be found on 8 - 15 April Mini Makers- Pretty Plant Pots Celebrate National Gardening Week by decorating a plant pot for your garden. What will you plant in yours? 12.00- 13.00, included with entry into the Discovery Centre. Fun ‘make and do’ sessions for kids age 4 to 8. Scottish Seabird Centre,The Harbour, North Berwick. 01620 890202. For entry prices or to book online go to www.seabird.org Tuesday 9 April Tiny Tales: Spring in the air 10am & 11.30am (40mins) | £5 per child | 1-3 yrs Monthly session for toddlers to get interactive with tales, because you’re never too young to enjoy the magic of stor ytelling. www.scottishstorytellingcentre.co.uk Saturday 13th April Free Children’s Storytelling Heroic puffins, grumpy pandas and Loch Ness monsters are just some of the colourful characters you’ll meet at these free stor ytelling sessions for 3 to 6-year olds (accompanied by an adult). Join the Picture Kelpies authors and illustrators as they read from their books and bring their characters alive! This fun-filled 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. 10.30am (30mins); 11.30am (30mins); 1.30pm (30mins); 2.30pm (30mins) Location: Scottish Storytelling Centre, 4345 High Str eet, Edinburgh EH1 1SR To book your fr ee ticket, visit www.storytellingday.eventbrite.co.uk Saturday 13 April Cramond Playgroup Spring Fair 12.30 until 3. At Cramond Kirk Halls.

Free entry. All monies raised on stalls go towards Playgroup, which operates as a Charity. Filled with fun things to do, Toy stall, food and drink. Open to anyone in the area with young children.

Look forward to seeing you there.

Saturday 13 - Sunday 14 April Getting Edinburgh Growing 1.00 pm - 4.00 pm, Real Life Science Studio , John Hope Gatew ay, No booking r equired, All, (Free). Do you want to grow your own food but don’t have a plot and can’t wait for an allotment? Do you have a garden that you can’t look after or that you would like to share and meet new people? Come and find out more about Edinburgh Garden Partners and start your partnership.

Free fun activities. Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh Sunday 14 April Portrait Detectives! (Ages 4-12) 2-4pm Collect your kit, follow clues and solve a mystery from history! Supported by the friends of the National Galleries of Scotland.

Scottish National Portrait Gallery 20th April - Table Top Sale We will be holding our first table top sale on Saturday, 20th April 2013, from 10am-12pm. There will be nearly new items and refreshments available.

Please come and support us! All proceeds to go to the playgroup. If you would like a table, please email MSPGFundraising@ gmail.com. Entrance Fee per person - £1. Mayfield Salisbury Church,18 Mayfield Road, Edinburgh, EH9 1TQ. 20th April Natural Art in Celebration of John Muir 1.00 pm - 4.00 pm, Real Life Science Studio, John Hope Gateway, No booking required - just drop in, All ages, (Free).

Celebrate Scottish-born environmentalist John Muir’s birthday (1838 –1914) by creating a treeinspired piece of natural art. With Greengage Arts. Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh Saturday 20 April Guinness World Record Nappy Change For this year’s Real Nappy Week (15 - 21 April) Changeworks is taking part in the Guinness World Record Diaper (Nappy) Change. The Real Nappy Project was the only Scottish project to take part in the challenge last year, and we had a great afternoon contributing to the total of 8,251 babies changed simultaneously worldwide. The event takes place at the Parish Centre of St Mar y’s Cathedral (next to Cafe Camino at the back of John Lewis) in Edinburgh.

If you use r eal nappies and w ould like to tak e part please contact realmappies@changeworks.org.uk or call 0131 555 4010 to book your place .

20 - 21 April Mini Makers - Recycled Rainbow Fish Transform old CDs into a beautiful fish-friend to hang on your wall. Feel free to bring anything colourful to decorate your fish!

12.00- 13.00, included with entr y into the Discover y Centre. Fun ‘make and do’ sessions for kids age 4 to 8. Scottish Seabird Centre,The Harbour, North Berwick. 01620 890202. For entry prices or to book online go to www .seabird.org Sunday 21st April The Jack & Jill Market (EDINBURGH-EAST) 10.30am – 1.30pm 60 stalls of quality, nearly-new baby & kids clothes, cots, toys, buggies, bikes, and all the rest (0-9 yrs). Snap up great BARGAINS and save £££. Adults £1 Meadowbank Leisure Centre, London Rd, Edinburgh, EH6 7AE. To book a stall visit: www.jackandjillmarket.co.uk

©Alicia Bruce

Sunday 21 April Bags of Art (Ages 4-12) 2-4pm Cool and creative fun with artists Tessa Asquith-Lamb and Louise Fraser . Supported by the Friends of the National Galleries of Scotland. Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art Two

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nurgh.co.uk our website www.familiesedinburgh.co.uk Sunday 21 April Talking Trees Storytelling 2.00 pm - 2.45 pm, Patrick Geddes Room, First Floor, John Hope Gateway, No booking required, 5+, Let the Talking Trees transport you to another place with their stories from around the world.

Royal Botanic Gar den Edinburgh Thursday April 25th The Real Nappy Projects Nappuccino 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 a nd if you’d like, apply for a trial pack or lending kit. A proportion of sales generated from all items will create income for the Real Nappy Project to help to continue with the ser vices provided. Duncan Place Resour ce Centre, Duncan Place (just off Duke St, Leith), Edinburgh, EH6 8HW Thursday 25 - Satur day 27 April Spot’s Birthday Party It’s the birthday of ever yone’s favourite puppy, it’s party time – and you’re invited! Kings Theatre Edinburgh. Box Office 0131 529 6000* Groups (8+) 0131 529 6005 www .edtheatres.com *Bkg Fee Saturday 27th April, 1-3pm School Fun Day/ Open Day Mannafields Christian School, 170 Easter Road Free fun day with games, crafts, science experiments, facepainting, free refreshments and information about the school. For more infor mation visit www.mannafields.org.uk Saturday 27th April Polwarth Nearly New Sale Polwarth Parish Chur ch, Polwarth Terrace, Edinburgh 11am to 1pm. All sales are run on a non-profit basis with all proceeds going to local charities or other worthy causes.

We sell children’ s clothes, toys, nursery equipment, high chairs, buggies, push chairs and much much more. Tea, coffee and home baking will also be available. Our Sale this time is supporting Pregnancy and Parents Centre, Edinburgh and Polwarth Parish Church. For more infor mation visit our web site at http://www.nearlynewsale.org.uk/ Saturday 27 April Seashells on the Seashore Free drop in workshop at The Museum of Edinburgh Flotsam and jetsam from the seashor e. 10.30am - 12.30pm Saturday 27 April Take to the stage Become the decorator of your own world and create your very own paper theatre. 10.30am - 12.30pm or 1.30pm - 3.30pm Make characters inspired by the toys in the museum. Bring them to life with your imagination. Suitable for age 5+; booking not required. Free drop in workshop at The Museum of Childhood 27 - 28 April Mini Makers - Puffin Hats. April in the Discovery Centre means puffin time!

Blend in with our new visitors by making your own puffin hat and see if you can spot one on our cameras! 12.00- 13.00, included with entry into the Discovery Centre. Fun ‘make and do’ sessions for kids age 4 to 8. Scottish Seabird Centre,The Harbour, North Berwick. 01620 890202. For entry prices or to book online go to www .seabird.org

©Andy McGregor

©Peter Dibdim

Sunday 28 April Meet the Ancestors - Springtime Stories (Ages 4-12) 2pm, 2.45pm & 3.30pm (30 mins) Part of Edinburgh's Tradfest Festival. Join stor yteller and musician Marion Kenny for some Scottish tales and music inspired by our portraits. Scottish National Portrait Gallery Sunday 28th April The Jack & Jill Market 10.30am-1.30pm 40 stalls of quality nearlynew baby & kids clothes, cots, toys, buggies, bikes and much more! (0-9 yrs). Snap up great BARGAINS and save £££. Adults £1 West Lothian College , Almondvale Crescent, Livingston EH54 7EP. To book a stall visit: www.jackandjillmarket.co.uk Is your son or daughter a budding sports star? On Friday 3rd May, Fettes College will once again be running their Sporting Talent Day for sporty boys and girls aged 10 & 11. This funpacked day aims to enthuse and inspire while honing skills and nurturing sporting talent. Enthusiastic coaches will give advice, teach new skills and encourage your son or daughter to achieve the ver y best they can across a range of sports.

Like previous years we hope this event will nurture the talents they already have and introduce them to sports they have maybe never tried before as well as getting them involved in some competitive group activities. If you would like further details of this free event, please just email g.gray@fettes.com and she will be happy to help.

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Copyright Š Families Magazine 2012. 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.