Families Edinburgh March/April 2016

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Free 95 ISSUE ril Ap March/ 2016

Easter Days Out Pregnancy and Baby Easter Camps and Classes

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What's On

www.familiesedinburgh.co.uk

Email - editor@familiesedinburgh.co.uk

Tel. 0131 622 0405

What’s inside...

Welcome to the March/April issue of Families Edinburgh.

3–5 6–7 8 9 10 – 13 14 15 16 – 17 18 – 21 22– 23 24– 31

Local News and Views Clubs and Classes News Parent to Parent YourGP Pregnancy & Baby Bringing Baby Home Real Nappies Baby & Toddler Classes Easter Camps Easter Activities & Days Out Out & About

Get in Touch Editor: Sarah Adair editor@familiesedinburgh.co.uk 0131 622 0405 Keep up to date online at www.familiesedinburgh.co.uk Follow us on Twitter @familiesedinbur Find us on Facebook Designer: kennydickson7@gmail.com

On the Cover Photography by Moira Lizzy Photography 07974 177445 www.moiralizzie.co.uk

NEXT ISSUE MAY/JUNE 2016 Summer Camps and Activities Booking deadline April 1st 2016 Call 0131 622 0405 or email editor@familiesedinburgh.co.uk to book your space!

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Having a night off is a new luxury gift bag company based in the centre of Edinburgh, offering three exciting and colourful gift bag collections.

The Berries and Vanilla BATHE, the Orange and Mint CLEANSE and the Mango and Honey MOISTURISE collections all focus on allowing your bathing/relaxation experience to be that little bit different.

All products have been carefully selected to be handmade, organic, Paraben-free, SLS-free and not tested on animals – with some products being made right here in Edinburgh.

With any of the wonderfully created bags Having a night off offers a chance to escape with a bag of goodies to the bathroom whether it be at home or away, shut the door and begin a beautiful pampering experience.

A gift bag from Having a night off is the perfect gift to show someone you care about them, whether it be for this Mother's Day, a birthday, having a baby, getting engaged, married or starting a new job. It is a lovely present to give and to receive.

The tricky bit is which one will you choose – whichever one it is, relax and enjoy with Having a night off. www.havinganightoff.com

Join us on Sunday 5th June as we take Great Strides to raise vital funds for the Sick Kids Friends Foundation.

Great Strides is a seven mile sponsored walk, perfect for all ages and is family, wheelchair, buggy & dog friendly.

We will be taking in some of the iconic sights of Edinburgh starting from The Meadows through the Innocent Railway to Craigmillar Castle and back. At the end of the walk there will be lots of entertainment and fun to really make the day special.

Spread the word to friends, family and colleagues, we can’t wait to see you all at this amazing event. www.edinburghsickkids.org SC020862

Activity Delivered are excited to continue to deliver incredible Nerf Wars Parties to Edinburgh.

To celebrate a year of Nerf Wars parties, check out their Facebook page now for your chance to win a Nerf Wars Party worth £200!

They have a whole host of new parties that they will be bringing you this year. Find them on Facebook at ‘Activity Delivered’ to keep up to date with everything.

Random Acts of Kindness St James Shopping is running a Random Acts of Kindness campaign as a way of thanking customers who shop in the centre and to give something back to them as a token of appreciation. Every day until 31st March some lucky shoppers will receive a gift simply by shopping in the centre. For more information please see: www.stjamesshopping.com

Ryze Ryze is extremely pleased to announce that they are creating a brand new specially designed KIDZONE, exclusively for 2 - 6 year olds, which will mirror the open jump linked trampolines and foam pits.

This new area will be open from 10am to 9pm, 7 days per week.

Ozone is also looking at plans to install a small soft play area for kids 0 - 2 years.

This means that all the family can come along and enjoy The Ryze Ultimate Experience.

Look out for more sneak peaks of what's coming at www.Ryzeedinburgh.com (Please note: All children must be accompanied by a responsible adult and everyone entering KidZone must have a signed disclaimer) Works are due to be completed mid-March.

Once the new KidZone opens, every Jumper paying for a Ryze Fit class will be offered free entry for one child aged 2-6 years.

Please see details on the website www.Ryzeedinburgh.com

RyzeFit Now even more beginner and intermediate classes running for you to try out!

For information on booking or information on the classes themselves, please give us a ring on 0131 634 0140 or drop us an email to jump@ryzeedinburgh.com

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

Located in a quiet setting close to the heart of Craighouse, it is within 500m of the island's shop, hotel/pub, cafe and village hall. The cottage sleeps six (plus cot or child’s bed) with a super king-size master-suite, second king-size double and a comfortable twin bedroom. The very well equipped family-sized kitchen-dinning area boasts spectacular views over Small Isles Bay and the living room is made cosy with a wood burning stove. The cottage is perfect for a family holiday and is an excellent base for exploring the Isle of Jura.

Jura has some of the most spectacular scenery to be found in the Hebrides. With 115 miles of coastline there are plenty of sandy beaches to build sand castles on and the three ‘Paps’ provide walkers with a good challenge. The island is also a haven for wildlife with plenty of opportunities to observe Red deer, wild goats, seals, otters, golden eagles and if you are lucky enough dolphins and porpoises. There are plenty of things to do as a family on Jura including; renting a bike and cycling to the crofting communities, hiring a rowing boat to go mackerel fishing and collecting mussels on the rocky coastline. Or if this all sounds too exhausting just take a book and enjoy the views. Please go to www.gealachlan.co.uk or call 07906 158641 for further details.

Downes Opticians

Blue Sky Pilates- Is a state of the art Pilates studio located in an idyllic ground floor apartment in Queen Street Edinburgh.

A range of services is offered including Studio and Matwork Pilates, Pre and Post natal Pilates, BarreConcept and various forms of massage, including pre and post natal and remedial sports massage. We are also linked to Taylor Physiotherapy who deal with sports injuries but also have 2 Physiotherapists trained specifically in Woman’s Health.

“What makes us different? Each of our instructors has undergone rigorous training which includes over 500 training hours.

This allows us to teach clients who have undergone surgery or who want to avoid it or have conditions such as Osteoperosis, Multiple Sclerosis, Parkinsons just to name a few . And most of all we love our jobs!”

Blue Sky Pilates, 50 Queen street Edinburgh. EH2 3NS

Sidra Zia of Downes Opticians, Leith informs us that contact lenses are perfectly safe for children and can make a huge difference to confidence and sporting pursuits.

Contact lens industries and suppliers are forever enhancing their contact lenses to preserve the health of the front surface of the eye. This has resulted in contact lenses which are now suitable for eyes as young as 8 years old!

“So far, we have mainly fitted contact lenses in children and young adults when they are involved in sporting activities in particular physical sports such as football, rugby, gymnastics etc, where spectacle wear is not advantageous or allowed and sports goggles become an inconvenience”.

One of the biggest worries with spectacle wear for children and young adults is that of cosmetic appearance - spectacle lenses maybe too thick causing either magnification or minification of the eyes or if they have a prescription difference between the eyes, making one eye appear bigger than the other. With contact lenses this phenomenon does not manifest and therefore becomes a popular choice for social use as well as sports.

The super friendly staff at Downes Opticians are fully trained to advise and teach you how to insert and remove contact lenses safely (under the Optician’s supervision). At the insertion and removal tutorial your child will be advised (in your presence) of the appropriate Do’s and Don’ts of contact lens wear and they will be looked after by your Optician regularly.

Contact lens fitting is free at Downes Opticians for all under 18’s and Students. We would more than happy to hear from you with any questions whether you are a contact lens wearer young or old!

Downes Opticians, 2 North Junction Street, EH6 6HN. 0131 553 5358. info@downesopticians.com www.downesopticians.com

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St George’s Junior School Open Morning Saturday 19 March From 9.30am – 11.30am. Girls are invited to take part in some action-packed activities.

These include ‘fascinating hands-on science’ in the dedicated junior school science room, outdoor learning in the ‘Fantastical Forest’, sport, art and more.

For parents there is an informal opportunity to tour the junior school, including the nursery, where they can visit the classrooms and meet and talk to teaching staff. A crèche will be available.

Designed exclusively for girls, St George’s school was founded by pioneering women who were passionate about achieving equal opportunities for their students.

“We are still pioneers in women's education, and we never see gender as a barrier to our girls' aspirations. Surrounded by positive female role models, your daughter will have opportunities here to discover new talents and skills and to develop all her academic potential”.

If you would like to find out more, please contact Mrs Karen Batty in Admissions by telephoning 0131 311 8008 or emailing admissions@stge.org.uk.

On Foot by Bike Gardens have always been a place for children to play, and explore the world of nature, at Gardening Scotland they get the chance to do both. The Big Back Garden area is dedicated to children featuring play equipment, bouncy castles, outdoor games, creativity tent and lots of other hands on activities. Plenty to keep kids young and old occupied at Scotland’s Gardening Festival.

Gardening Scotland’s charity partner for 2016 is NSPCC Scotland, make sure you visit them in the Big Back Garden and maybe you will find some treasure along the way.

Don't forget that Gardening Scotland caters for parents too.

With Champagne and Pimms bars, exciting floral exhibits, herbs, local produce, healthy eating and so much more, there really is something for everyone.

Bring your family along to Gardening Scotland from 3rd – 5th June and enjoy a superb day out. Children under 16 go free.

Book your tickets online at www.gardeningscotland.com or call 0131 333 095 to find out more about our afternoon tea packages. twitter @GardenScotland Facebook & Pinterest – Gardening Scotland

On Foot by Bike is an initiative in Edinburgh that aims to inspire more people to embrace walking and cycling as ways of getting around the city and further afield.

As a compact, densely populated and beautiful city, Edinburgh is suited perfectly to travel by foot or by bicycle.

You can find the huge variety of off-road walking and cycling routes just right for a family day out cycling or a leisurely stroll.

From the scenic Leith to Portobello path to the journey from Tollcross to Ratho along the Union Canal, there are plenty of opportunities to get out on foot or by bike, and you can download a range of maps from www.edinburg.gov.uk/bybikeonfoot

Big Pedal 2016: Sustrans’ tips on cycling and scooting to school Last year children, parents and teachers who took part in the Big Pedal travelled over 3 million miles on their bikes and scooters, equivalent to 15 trips to the moon.

Top tips to get your child walking or cycling to school: • Plan your route together in advance, finding quieter roads and cycle paths wherever possible; • Practice the journey at the weekend when the roads are likely to be quieter; • Make sure your child's bike fits and that all your bikes are roadworthy; • If you're on the road with children, take up a position behind them as you’re likely to be more visible to anyone approaching.

If there are two adults in your group, it's a good idea to have one at the back and one in front of the children; • Look into local cycle training schemes, it can be a great way to help children develop skills and increase their confidence on the roads.

Sustrans runs the Big Pedal (18th - 29th April 2016) to encourage children and parents to travel to school in ways that are healthy, better for the environment and that help reduce congestion at the school gates.

To find out more about how schools can take part in the Big Pedal visit www.sustrans.org.uk/bigpedal. The website also has lots more information on cycling with children – including information on what to look for when buying a bike and safety.

Eat - Play - Party FREE Character appearance at your party when you quote "Families Edinburgh" We also offer EXCLUSIVE USE parties!

Opening hours - Mon-Fri 9am - 5pm, Sat/Sun 9am - 2pm (Exclusive use parties from 3pm) 31 Corbiehill Road, Edinburgh EH4 5BQ

0131 312 7077 www.jennsden.co.uk 4 FAMILIES EDINBURGH ISSUE 95

(28 May – 5 June 2016) Imaginate is Edinburgh’s international children’s festival, showcasing some of the best theatre and dance from Scotland and across the world.

All shows add their own ©Philip Merry wonderful character and zest and have been specifically created for children to give the perfect mix of excitement, innovation and fun. A friendly forest creature going on an adventure, a lonely man who befriends a dog, stunning dancers on stilt with enormous wings, a retelling of Scotland’s history, a magic show with a twist… there’ll be something for every taste.

This truly magical festival will delight and inspire the young and young-at-heart and it’s happening right here in Edinburgh!

• 14 shows from 9 different countries ©Sean Young • Exciting programme for all ages • Family tickets @ £8 per person • The little jewel in Edinburgh festivals’ crown And don’t miss the Family Fringe opening weekend at the National Museum of Scotland with performances and FREE activities all day incl. live music, walk-about with performers, storytelling, craft and more – perfect for 0-12 year olds. If you've never been to the festival, the Family Fringe is the perfect way to give it a try.

Nothing beats the magic of a live experience – give your child something they’ll never forget!

More information at www.imaginate.org.uk

Pupils of Currie Primary School Eco-Council accompanied by Hannah Knight of the RSPB, accepted a donation of two bat habitat boxes from Pip Phillips of Real Foods.

Currie Primary School and its’ pupils take part in the Edinburgh Living Landscape Initiative and Real Foods were invited to contribute to this enterprise driven by Acting Deputy Head, Neil MacKenzie.

The Edinburgh Living Landscape Initiative is a partnership project that aims to create, restore and connect green areas of the city to make attractive and bio-diverse landscapes that will be healthy, nature rich and resilient to climate change. This goes hand in hand with the RSPB Edinburgh’s ‘Giving nature a home in Edinburgh’ Project to achieve similar goals including better connectivity for wildlife, providing homes for nature and inspiring local communities and schools to play an active part in this.

The improvements that Currie Primary School are making as a result of their involvement with these two very positive environmental campaigns also contribute to their work in securing an Eco School’s Green Flag Award.

The Puppet Animation Festival The Puppet Animation Festival returns in 2016 with an abounding and brilliant programme of puppetry, animation and workshops.

From 19 March – 9 April Find out what’s on near you at www.puppetanimationfestival.org

Scotland’s Big Nature Festival

Join RSPB Scotland for a wild day out that the whole family can enjoy at Scotland’s Big Nature Festival this spring!

The wildlife event is returning to Levenhall Links in Musselburgh on Saturday 21 and Sunday 22 May. Visitors will be treated to a packed programme of hands-on workshops, guided walks, talks and bird-ringing demonstrations, as well as exciting activities like ponddipping, mini-beast hunts and storytelling for the kids. We will be joined during the weekend by presenters from children’s TV including Rory Crawford, who co-presents a show about children and animals and boasts that he can identify the poo of over 20 species!

Take a stroll along the coast or through the woodland at Levenhall Links to see some local wildlife before joining the RSPB for an action packed day in the great outdoors. With seabird cruises, tantalising food and drink and live music on offer, Scotland’s Big Nature Festival is not to be missed!

Little ones (under 5s) get into the event for free and make sure you book early to take advantage of our half price early bird ticket offer (T’s & C’s apply). The event is easily accessed by bus, rail and car, and tickets are on sale now at: bignaturefestival.org.uk Ticket prices: £12 adults, £10 concessions, £2 children, under 5’s go free. Members discount.

Opening hours: 10 am until 5.30 pm daily.

Science and Arts Open Morning at Edinburgh Montessori Arts School.

The pupils invite you to join them for interactive science demonstrations and a gallery of their creative works. Take a tour of the school and find out more about Montessori education. Teas, coffees, waffles and more plus soft play area for little ones.

Saturday 23rd April 10am - 12noon, 18N Liberton Brae, EH16 6AE.

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Clubs & Classes NeWs KinDermusiK with ellie

Dance For all

Where Music and Learning Play!

I feel so honoured and grateful to receive so much love from the families that attend my classes.

I believe each day is a gift and this is what I would like children to experience during my sessions.

Confident and happy children love learning! Ellie Listen and move. Play and grow. This is Kindermusik, the most trusted music and movement programme for babies, toddlers, preschoolers, and young children.

Through Kindermusik provides the foundation for musical learning where children and their families engage in an exciting learning process.

In a Kindermusik with Ellie class each child's development and learning are encouraged in a safe and nurturing environment. Activities include singing, music appreciation, instrument-playing, parent-child time, creative movement, storytime, vocal development and focused listening. The programme progresses following children’s learning and age, starting with the babies’ Sing & Play’ class to ‘Move & Groove’ class for children 4+ yrs old.

Ellie has been awarded a Kindermusik Maestro Educator status for her services in teaching the Kindermusik programme.

Classes: Sing & Play (5-15 months) – Free For 3 & 4 Months Old Babies Wiggle & Grow (15 months-3 yrs), Laugh & Learn (3-4+ years) Venues: Get Down Dog Yoga Studio (62b Newhaven Road) Visit: www.kindermusikwithellie.co.uk Email: Kindermusik_with_Ellie@hotmail.com Call: 079 62678561

Do you know a young person who wants to be a professional dancer, choreographer or dance teacher?

Dance For All's annual Spring Fling is on 18th & 19th March, showcasing senior pupils and the students on their Professional Dance Performance & Teacher Training Course - the longest running course of its kind in Scotland.

Established in 1985, Dance For All, nurtures pupils aged 2½ - 18yrs to enjoy and excel in the finest dance genres, including RAD Ballet, ISTD Tap, SDS Flamenco, Jazz and Contemporary. Principal, Tracy Hawkes, leads an inspirational faculty of staff in delivering professional dance training and over 70 weekly child, teen & adult classes (beginners advanced), such as their popular Drop-In Ballet. Their biannual pupil show is on the 12th of March.

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

KiP mcgrath Kip McGrath Professional Teachers in our centres in Marchmont & Inverleith helps children of all ages (4-18) achieve the highest results.

Our results speak for themselves: 'Dear Indy thank you. My son hated maths and now what a difference he has gained confidence not just in maths but in his general abilities…’ L. Walters.

‘Just wanted to let you know that James has been offered a place at all of the private schools that we applied for. We are thrilled to have so much choice and couldn’t have done this without your help.’ J. Mackenzie.

For a free assessment call Indy on 01316106110 or email Indy-professional-tutors@sky.com

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For sale Tumble Tots Edinburgh East currently has centres in: Marchmont, Fairmilehead, Haddington, Joppa and Morningside, and running over 6 days during term time.

Jo has decided to put the business up for sale and let someone younger take over the reins. This is an excellent opportunity for the right person to purchase an established and respected Tumble Tots business. The area has scope for expansion through additional centres and additional sessions. The business provides a great work-life balance for the right person.

For details of the venues and timetable currently operated, please visit www.tumbletots.com/Edinburgh “Be assured that I will continue to give Tumble Tots my full enthusiasm and commitment during the transition and I will do all I can to assist a new buyer for the area.

If you would like further information on this exciting business opportunity I would love to hear from you so please give me a call on 01875 819966 or 07747 776088 alternatively email joletelier.lobos@virgin.net”

BeesPanish BeeSpanish is an early stimulation programme whose mission statement is to teach Spanish to children under six as they play and sing.

One recurring question is, why learn a foreign language at such an early age?

Research carried out both in the UK and the USA has shown that the maximum absorbing capacity of a new language occurs up to the age of seven.

BeeSpanish provides a unique space where children can learn Spanish through movement, music and interactive activities. Music and sound form a core part of our sessions prepared by professionals with a native Spanish speaking tutor and a qualified educational psychologist.

We currently offer Sessions in Stockbridge (Saturdays), Morningside (Thursdays), Portobello (Thursdays) and Murrayfield (wednesday).

For more information contact us www.beespanish.co.uk info@beespanish.co.uk 07576032079

welcome to Pat's tutoring I am a fully qualified Professional Teacher with over 10 Years experience as a highly recommended tutor.

I have earned an excellent reputation for developing rapport with pupils and building their confidence. My relaxed, caring approach has enabled pupils to grow into successful learners.

I am passionate about every child achieving success and having positive self-esteem and I believe my tuition services provide the individual help your child needs to progress.

I am registered with the General Teaching Council Scotland and hold full PVG Disclosure.

Each tutoring session offers your child 60 minutes individual teaching with a very experienced, fully qualified professional teacher who has extensive knowledge of a range of learning difficulties and barriers to learning. This expertise ensures your child will receive the appropriate teaching for their individual needs. patstutoring.co.uk

Clubs & Classes NeWs acting out SHOW TERM! It’s Time to Act Out! Acting Out Drama School are looking for children aged 4-6 and 7-13 to join our excellent team of performers just in time for our big show at the Roxy Theatre in June 2016.

No experience is necessary.

Our classes are fun and great for building your child’s confidence too.

They cover singing, dancing and acting! Classes are also great for building confidence and developing Public Speaking. All teachers are approved members of the PVG Scheme. They are highly trained, experienced and most are professional performers themselves. We are are passionate about teaching and performing! As well as putting on regular performances, we offer all our students the chance to gain qualifications through certified exams by Trinity College London. We also provide casting opportunities for all our students. Enrol for fun or enrol to start your child on their own professional adventure into the performing world. Parents: we also have courses for adults including Beginners Drama, Singing and Public Speaking Courses.

We also offer private, individual lessons in voice, acting and public speaking for all ages. www.actingoutuk.com/hello@actingoutuk.com/ 07704714607

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

story massage For chilDren We all love stories! When combined with the benefits of simple massage strokes, stories present wonderful opportunities for creativity and interaction.

Story massage involves the use of 10 easy to follow massage strokes associated with spoken words that help build up an engaging story. The strokes concentrate on the shoulders, back, arms and head but can also be used on the legs, hands and feet.

No oil is used and children do not remove any clothing.

Story massage offers a simple, fun and interactive way of sharing benefits of positive touch with children of all ages and abilities. Positive touch through story telling can be especially beneficial for children with special/additional needs.

Workshop – 3 hours – Adults Only (parents/carers of children of all ages).

See website for upcoming dates.

Anne Young BSc CBMI MIFPA. I am mum to two daughters. I have been a baby massage instructor and complementary therapist for many years. I know the many benefits of positive and nurturing touch through my work and with my own family.

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

stagecoach theatre arts

Confidence, Creativity and Communication are the cornerstones of Stagecoach Theatre Arts in Edinburgh.

Offering drama, dance and singing classes for children aged 4-18 years, we pride ourselves on our creative and professional teaching, which enables students to develop their own potential and gain skills for life.

Our weekly Early Stages classes offer 3 x 30 minute bursts of Drama, Dance and Singing for our 4-6 year olds whilst our Main School students (age 6-18, split by age into three stages) are immersed in three jam-packed hours of drama, dance and singing.

Classes are based across Edinburgh, running Fridays-Sundays.

For those looking for something for the Summer Holidays - our week long Musical Theatre workshop is a whirlwind week of performing arts - culminating in a show for family and friends. Running from 18th-22nd July at Dance Base in the Grassmarket.

For more information on any of our classes or workshops, please call us on 0131 610 0636 or visit our website at www.stagecoach.co.uk/edinburgh.

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Parent Parent

Emma Walker runs her own marketing and business consultancy (A Stay At Home CEO), and writes about workplace issues such as maternity discrimination. She lives in Cramond with her three-year old son, Harry, and her husband Mick.

Favorite shop: Cloudberry Gifts. We go to Maddie & Mark’s shoe shop in Blackhall, and then hotfoot it across the road to grab a homemade scone from Cloudberry. We normally pick up a wee gift to take home too so it’s always a happy day for Harry!

Favourite park: Cramond’s Walled Garden - it’s our nearest to home, close to playgroup, and completely safe for kids to run around without the fear of traffic.

Favourite day out: Our perfect family day out would include a morning class at Boogie Beats, picnic on a beach, messy play at Honey Pot Arts & Crafts in Ratho and then back home for stories. But to be honest when the three of us are together, that’s enough for me.

Favourite child friendly restaurant: The Bridge Inn in Ratho is always hugely accommodating, with a basket of books and toys to occupy little ones.

Proudest eco-friendly moment: Watching Harry gently and patiently explore rockpools to check for signs of life.

No parent should be without: A gro-clock (teaches children when it's time to sleep or get up using pictures of the moon and sun), a copy of Edinburgh Under 5’s guide and an amazing friend to share the high’s and low’s of parenthood with.

Parenting pet hates: Not a pet hate, more of a massive concern. Women who have had children are often made to feel that their value in the workplace has plummeted when, in fact, the exact opposite is the truth. 60,000 women a year lose their job each year due to maternity discrimination and this has to change.

Parenting high points (what makes it all worthwhile): When he tells me he’s having a great day, the cuddles, his happy heart and his kindness. I love watching him make friends and play on his own, and how his personality is developing.

Most embarrassing moment (with child): When walking past a man with his dog in an incredibly quiet park in Cramond, Harry shouted “That dog has testicles!” at the top of his voice. The moment was a mixture of embarrassment at the suddenness of the announcement and pride that he knew such a big word! He now checks for testicles at every opportunity!

Favourite family holiday spot: Amble in Northumberland. It was our first holiday and it will forever remain a treasured memory.

Best children’s book: ‘Oh the places you’ll go’ by Dr Seuss is hard to beat.

Best DVD: Harry hasn’t started watching tv just yet, but his favourite CD is his Boogie Beat CD. Most played with toys: ‘Traffic’ as Harry calls it. He has a toy box full of cars, vans, trucks etc and he plays with it endlessly.

Most successful recipe/food: Annabel Karmel’s baby recipes was a huge success (basically ‘puree everything!’) and it made me confident in giving him foods I probably wouldn’t have if I hadn’t read the book.

Why you like living where you do: Cramond is beautiful. The Playgroup is second to none, there’s lots of walks and parks nearby (including the pony park) and we can see a family of deer from our living room. I like that it’s just 20 minutes to the city centre, but it feels like the middle of nowhere when we close the door behind us.

As parents in Edinburgh you have so much fantastic local knowledge - if you would like to share your favorite bits of being a parent and living in our fantastic city then please email: editor@familiesedinburgh.co.uk 8 FAMILIES EDINBURGH ISSUE 95

At

we are experienced in giving childhood vaccines.

An immunisation at YourGP will be as stress-free and un-traumatic as possible – for all concerned.

We believe it is vital that your child has all of their necessary routine vaccinations, such as meningitis, flu and MMR. We also offer the Meningitis B, Chicken Pox and Hepatitis B Paediatric vaccines.

• • • •

We provide a complete range of baby jabs (excluding the single MMR vaccine) We provide advice on what vaccinations your child might require as national schedule and/or travel including NON UK schedules As a team, we are skilled at keeping children calm and relaxed We are also well practised at calming the nerves of anxious parents

YourGP are now also offering the HPV vaccine for boys from the age of 9

So how can boys get the HPV vaccine?

Currently the HPV vaccine is not available on the NHS but that does not mean you can not protect your sons. Private GP practices such as YourGP in Edinburgh and Aberdeen, offer the GARDASIL Vaccine, which is proven protection against HPV, for females and males from nine to 26-years-old and is used by the NHS for the girls.

You may know that the HPV vaccine protects girls against cervical cancer and that the vaccine is offered GARDASIL costs approximately £160 per vaccine, and depending on the free of charge to all girls at secondary school across Scotland. But not many know that boys are just as child’s age they will require 2 or 3 doses. It is the only HPV vaccine that helps protect against four types of HPV and it should be administered as much at risk from contracting HPV related cancers, and that vaccinating boys can protect them too. early as possible for it to be effective.

The UK's national HPV immunisation programme was introduced into schools in 2008 to protect women against HPV-related cancer, however, boys are currently not on a government programme for the vaccine, as in theory, if girls are immunised, boys will be protected too.

YourGP are well practiced at vaccinating children, keeping them – and the parents – calm and relaxed!

In 2014, a group of MPs on an All-Party Parliamentary research group found that more than 2,000 To find out more about the HPV vaccination for boys, or cases of cancer in men each year in the UK were caused by HPV. any other child vaccines visit www.your-gp.com or call HPV, or human papillomavirus, can be passed on through any type of sexual contact, including kissing.

0131 225 5656 or 01224 040080 or email In most instances it cause no harm. But it is a highly contagious group of viruses that cause around 5% reception@your.gp. of all cancers worldwide.

Waterside House,19 Hawthornbank Lane In 2012, 67% of all new cases of oral cancer were in men. And according to Cancer Research UK, oral Edinburgh, EH4 3BH cancer in men is significantly higher in Scotland compared with England, Northern Ireland, and Wales.

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PREGNANCY AND BABY Babies and Bumps Café has put in place an antenatal programme with a twist.

It can be hard to meet other mums and in particular mums that you have something in common with and this has been the foundation of the antenatal classes.

Take our Bump Night for example, this is a social evening where expectant parents can come along and 'bump' into other expectant parents.

There is a social focus on the evening with welcome drinks followed by opportunities to mingle with other individuals who are there. Along with the social aspect of the evening there is an informative and educational element too with three maternity practitioners who come to the evening to discuss their specialised field in a relaxed and informal atmosphere.

Babies and Bumps Cafe Mums-To-Be 'ME' Time is a night of pampering and relaxation. We have joined forces with other local business's in order to provide a great evening catered for mums-to-be. We have a maternity bra fitter, a pregnancy waxer, mini file and polish and mini hand and back massages sure to allow our mummies to switch off. This is an evening to really indulge and be pampered before baby arrives. It is so important for mum to remember to make time for herself during, and after, pregnancy.

Babies and Bumps Café intends to expand the antenatal classes with new classes in the pipeline. There will be a focus on Health and Wellbeing, with a physiotherapist, nutritionist and mini yoga sessions. A ‘Social Bump’ for a particular birth month which allows individuals with babies due in a particular month to come along and meet other people with babies due around the same time.

Come along and see for yourself! 13-15 Church Hill Place, Edinburgh, EH10 4BE 0131 447 3549

Have a Healthy Pregnancy with Salt Therapy!

Juno Perinatal Mental Health Support

From the first week of your pregnancy, it's important to take care of yourself so you can take care of your baby.

You want to be feeling at your best to enjoy your pregnancy.

We have four groups across the city where we can offer advice and information but most importantly a safe space where mums know that they can chat with others with similar issues.

We all have personal experience of these feelings of isolation/despair and the devastating impact it can have on the whole family. Juno is here to reassure mums and mums-to-be, that there is light at the end of what appears to be a very long, dark tunnel and with the right support you can, and will, get better.

For most mums with perinatal mental health difficulties, their first stop is usually a health visitor or GP. Here at Juno we have built up an extensive knowledge of local resources in the hope that we can always aid families, whether it be directly, or through referral to another body.

We offer a safe, relaxed environment in our groups alongside friendly chat, a welcoming smile and absolutely no judgement. Our day time groups also provide play equipment for babies and toddlers.

What is meant by perinatal mental health?

The term perinatal cover the time period from the moment of conception until the child is 2. Some women aren’t diagnosed until their child is 2 or beyond but might have had symptoms of depression or anxiety for some time. We use the phrase ‘mental health’ because it covers a broader spectrum – many people may not suffer depression, but battle with anxiety, stress and OCD for example.

If you’d like to get in touch, you can contact us the following ways: Email – juno.enquiries@gmail.com Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/junopmhsedinburgh Leith Group – juno.leith@gmail.com Longstone Group - juno.longstone@gmail.com Craiglockhart Group - juno.craiglockhart@gmail.com South Group -juno.southedinburgh@gmail.com

Help is at hand, salt therapy is a safe and beneficial treatment during pregnancy that helps relieve stress, tension, respiratory conditions such as asthma and hay fever, and skin conditions including eczema and psoriasis. There is nothing to ingest when it comes to salt therapy, it is simple and comfortable and involves no pills, needles, or medications of any type. It is a 100% natural and drug-free treatment.

You simply relax and inhale dry, salt-enriched air deep into your lungs, starting the healing process. Salt makes your breathing easier after just a few sessions, improves your lung function and strengthens your immune system to give you more energy and vitality during your pregnancy.

After the birth, children as young as six months can attend The Salt Cave and benefit from salt therapy without the worry of side effects.

The Salt Cave, Meadowbank, Edinburgh, is open Tuesday to Saturday and your first session is FREE! 0131 510 1091 www.saltcave.co.uk

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We support mums through weekly peer support groups, one to one outreach where appropriate and also offer Mums access to subsidised counselling service out with our groups with a trained professional.

PREGNANCY AND BABY Pre and Post Natal Pilates Pregnancy: A class specifically designed for pregnant woman to become more in tune with their body. We will focus on stability, strength and breathing but more importantly we will help you understand and become more aware of the changes and developments that occur in your body during pregnancy. Practicing Pilates helps maintain and improve the condition of both your abdominal and pelvic floor muscles. Pilates will not place strain on the joints or back but will in fact strengthen the back, the stomach and the muscles around the pelvic area. Attending classes throughout pregnancy can reduce Lower Back and Pelvic Pain.

Post natal: Following the birth of your baby we advise that you wait until your 6 week check. If you have had a cesarian section we advise you wait 10 -12 weeks. If you have had any complications during delivery we can discuss your options with you.

There are many changes which occur in the body both during and after pregnancy and delivery. Some of these include Chronic Pelvic Pain, Symphysis Pubis Dysfunction (SPD), Diastasis recti (also known as abdominal separation) and incontinence.

We work closely with specialised woman’s health physiotherapists and also incontinence specialists.

Please contact us and we can arrange and appointment with a specialist who can help you It is advisable to have a couple of private sessions before going into a class.

Pre natal classes will work on strengthening the pelvic floor and abdominal wall and work on getting you back into your pre pregnancy shape.

To book. Contact claire on 07872349073 or email claire@blueskypilates.co.uk

At Studio Life Photography, we truly believe there is not a moment more magical than becoming a parent. www.studiolifephotography.co.uk

13-15 Church Hill Place, Edinburgh, EH10 4BE 0131 447 3549

www.babiesandbumpscafe.co.uk

It is an honour to be a part of capturing and documenting one of the most special times in your life. Newborn babies are simply incredible, they teach us so much about human nature, the essence of life, and living in the present.

Our job in photographing these wonderful little people goes far beyond just snapping a few shots of your new family member; we aim to capture a unique moment in time and the emotions along with it.

The photos from your newborn session will become a family treasure to be enjoyed again and again.

Studio Life is no ordinary newborn baby photography studio. With 10 years of experience under our belts, including attendance at workshops and classes on a regular basis, we create original works of art in a heartfelt and professional manner.

Why not visit our newborn baby photography studio in Corstorphine, Edinburgh and see why families come back year after year.

Contact details if you need them: 0131 603 7777, Our web address is : www.studiolifephotography.co.uk

Relax with a luxury BATHE, CLEANSE or MOISTURISE gift bag from

Jan Hunter, Child Sleep Advisor If a child develops good sleeping habits the whole family benefits immensely and children who sleep soundly are calm and contented.

www.havinganightoff.com

Jan is a qualified Nursery Nurse with a SNNEB in Education and Childcare with over 21 years of experience working in both Education and Healthcare settings. This includes 10 years within a nursery environment, educating and meeting the care needs of children aged 3 to 5. For the last 11 years Jan has been working for the NHS in Scotland in the area of health and child development from birth to five years, with a particular focus on the challenges relating to the sleep patterns of babies and young children.“I can offer you a tailored approach on how to get your child to sleep" You can contact Jan: Phone: 07875 038723 Email: jhunter1960@hotmail.co.uk facebook ; thechildsleepadvisor website: thechildsleepadvisor.co.uk

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PREGNANCY AND BABY Holiday Cottage on the Isle of Jura.

Reflexology at Revitalize You may know the Revitalize Clinic for its reputation in massage, supporting people with various aches and pains, releasing tension, promoting health. However Andrea, Paula, and Rhoda are also trained in Reflexology.

Modern, comfortable and family friendly.

Sleeps 6.

Beautifully situated and surrounded by fantastic scenery.

Plenty of wildlife and lots to do.

www.gealachlan.co.uk 07906 158641

©ANJA SCHIEFLER PHOTOGRAPHY

Revitalize Sports & Remedial Massage Reflexology Pregnancy Massage Massage for the whole family!

Experienced therapists 66 Ratcliffe Terrace, EH9 1 ST 0131-668-3311/07731155453 www.RevitalizeEdinburgh.co.uk

daisy birthing The groundbreaking Active Antenatal Class TM

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

The art of reflexology dates back to ancient Egypt, India and China but in the Western World it was when looking for methods of pain control circa 1913, that ‘zone therapy’ - the precursor to modern reflexology -was used. Reflexology is not just foot massage; you can expect to receive a specific holistic treatment aimed at working and supporting your individual health. Between us we have ©Anja Sshiefler Photography undertaken extended training in such areas as stress support for anxiety, depression, PTSD, pain management, lymphatic drainage and maternity support.

Reflexology works from the inside out, rather than the outside in, working with the whole of you on every level, physical, neurological, mental and emotional. Reflexology works pre-conception, during pregnancy, labour and postnatally, settling babies, teething, colic, to providing for the whole family supporting children’s health, the teenage years, parental wellbeing and health conditions, and including later years, caring for the older members of our families and end of life care.

Usually during a treatment you can expect to feel nurtured and relaxed, you may sleep better, and have improved mood.

Tensions might be reduced and a sense of empowerment and positivity is often felt.

We offer a free consultation and the opportunity to experience 30 minutes of Reflexology for £20.00 (a saving of £5) up until the end of May 2016.

Available 7 days a week and evenings by appointment. Call the Revitalize clinic 0131 668 3311 and leave a message and we will get back to you.

Or contact us individually Andrea 07731155453 for Reflexology, MLD and Pre-and-Perinatal Massage; Paula 07962 886 356 for Reflexology, Remedial Massage and Limbic reflexology; Rhoda 07980 208 222 for Reflexology, RLD and Reiki. www.revitalizeEdinburgh.co.uk

Daisy Birthing™ If you are pregnant and looking for a relaxing and supportive course for all your birth preparation needs, The Daisy Foundation Edinburgh provides Daisy Birthing active antenatal classes which combine movement, antenatal & active birth education, breathing techniques and relaxation, to prepare you for birth in a supportive and positive environment. Classes are suitable from 14 weeks pregnant and are inclusive of all birth choices and preferences. So how will Daisy Birthing benefit you? Not only will you enjoy movement designed to create muscle memory for your birthing day, ease away aches and relieve pregnancy symptoms, but you will also develop a toolkit of techniques to help keep you calm during labour, birth and far beyond. You will also enjoy complete relaxation away from the distractions of day to day life, and be able to completely indulge your pregnant self in the company of like-minded women, who will probably become good friends. There is a great community of mums and mums-to-be supporting each other with no judgement. The Daisy Foundation Edinburgh supports all types of birth and you need no experience to join; classes are suitable for all fitness and flexibility levels. Email kathryn-lawrence@thedaisyfoundation.com to reserve your place.

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

Bringing up Baby, Dads2b Rock, Dads Antenatal, New Dads Rock Dads Rock who currently run free playgroups for Dads/Granddads and other male carers have teamed up with NHS Lothian to deliver antenatal classes for new dads.

The Wester Hailes based classes will give dads the chance to practice bathing the baby, as well as how to put on a nappy, and sooth the new born. Dads will also be given the chance to talk about how post natal depression impacts both dads and mums. The classes will be a mix of practical and essential softer skills for new dads, giving them hands on experience, and sharing tips from existing dads on how best to support mums. The classes will also give the dads a chance to ask any questions and discuss what they can expect about being a new parent.

The classes will be based in Wester Hailes Healthy Living Centre, on Monday evenings.

Find our more www.dadsrock.org.uk

YogaBellies Pregnancy Yoga classes

YogaBellies provides authentic, safe and fun yoga classes for women, mothers and children • YogaBellies Yoga For Pregnancy • YogaBellies Yoga For Mummy and Baby • YogaBelles Yoga For Women Classes in Edinburgh and Midlothian

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These days expectant mothers everywhere are looking for ways to maintain their health and stay in shape throughout their pregnancy.

That's why thousands of pregnant women have turned to yoga as a way to stay active and healthy-when performed properly.

YogaBellies Pregnancy Yoga classes are gentle and safe for all women, whether new to Yoga or with years of practice. This is more than just a yoga class, but also training in deep relaxation and preparation for birth and motherhood.

We practice yoga postures suitable for pregnancy and birth, adjusted for each trimester, invaluable breathing techniques for pregnancy and labour and also relaxation and meditation techniques that mum can also use once baby arrives.

This is also a birth preparation class and is so much more than just physical stretching.These sessions are unique, revolutionary prenatal yoga classes for pregnant women. We use traditional yoga postures (asana), adapted and beneficial for pregnancy and the common ailments associated with pregnancy. YogaBellies for Pregnancy classes also include an especially created combination of self-hypnosis and yoga nidra (deep relaxation) and breathing techniques for pregnancy and birth (pranayama.).

And for after baby is born we provide our beautiful YogaBellies Mummy and Baby Yoga sessions…

For details on classes in Edinburgh and Midlothian contact rosy@yogabellies.co.uk or visit yogabellies.co.uk

PREGNANCY AND BABY Current recommendations from the CDC (Feb 2016) is for pregnant women to consider postponing travel to the areas where Zika virus transmission is ongoing. Pregnant women who do travel to one of these areas should talk to their doctor or other healthcare provider first and strictly follow steps to avoid mosquito bites during the trip.

The same advice is recommended to women thinking about or trying to get pregnant.

If you are unsure about travelling or suspect you might have been infected while abroad, you should consult your doctor.

For further information contact YourGP on 1224 040 080 or 0131 225 5656 or visit www.your-gp.com To find details of areas active with Zika transmission go to www.cdc.gov/zika

Knotstressed Attachment matters when it comes to breastfeeding. Most new mums who want to breastfeed their babies know that getting a good attachment to the breast is important but did you know that breastfeeding can also help when it comes to your relationship with your baby?

We know from the research that breastfeeding will support the physical health of both mum and baby (breast milk contains the exact antibodies that baby needs to fight off any nasty bugs). It can reduce the likelihood of asthma, eczema, obesity and allergies as well as protecting mum from ovarian cancer. It is also contains the exact nutrients that baby needs for a complete diet (even if your diet is not optimal). Breastfeeding also has profound psychological and emotional wellbeing benefits.

As soon as baby starts to feed, both mum and baby experience a rush of a hormone called oxytocin. This is also known as the “love” hormone. It comes from cuddles and a sense of closeness and helps us to feel connected to the people that we love. It is also the hormone released when we fall in love. This sense of love and closeness helps babies feel secure in an otherwise daunting world. Oxytocin is increased during skin to skin contact - also helpful for mums who are having difficulty with breastfeeding. In fact, skin to skin is fabulous for all parents and children - not just when you have a newborn!

There is an abundance of support available if you want help with breastfeeding. A major research finding from the Lancet recently found that breastfeeding needs to be a collective societal responsibility and not just the sole responsibility of the mum.

The majority of new mothers in Scotland really want to breastfeed, and start off with high hopes that it will be natural, often amidst strong fears that it will be painful or exhausting, and a support structure that is great in some parts of the country and dismal in others.

What can new parents do to help themselves to a happy breastfeeding relationship with their new baby?

• Find out how it works • Surround yourself with practical support • Learn about practices that help you to get enough rest • Know what's normal • Know where to get help when you need it At Knotstressed, we take this responsibility to support mothers in establishing effective breastfeeding, bonding and attachment seriously. Come along to one of our workshops to find out how we can help.

Karla Napier is a Lactation Consultant with many years experience as the Head of Infant Feeding at Simpson’s Maternity Centre, Edinburgh. Karla offers regular Antenatal Breastfeeding Workshops.

Dr. Sarah Hulme is a Chartered Psychologist with over 10 years experience supporting families. Sarah offers Baby Sleep, Colic, Crying and Understanding Toddler Behaviour Workshops, all with the ethos of gentle, attachment parenting. www.knotstressed.com relax@knotstressed.com 07717 783 230

Yoga for Fertility • Fertility Awareness Group • Fertility Reflexology • Counselling • Qi Gong • Meditation • Nutritional Therapy • Pregnancy & Postnatal Massage • Pregnancy Yoga • Partner Massage Workshops • Hypnotherapy • Midwife-Led Sessions • Doula Support • Relax & Breathe Birthing • Pregnancy & Postnatal Osteopathy • Baby Massage & Yoga • Baby Signing • Story Massage • Baby Crying, Colic & Sleep Workshops • Breastfeeding Advice • Understanding Toddler Behaviour • Mother & Baby Yoga

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Bringing Baby Home The birth of a baby and the transition to parenthood can create physical, psychological and relationship challenges for all parents.

For decades the preparation for baby has concentrated on the pregnancy, delivery and breast feeding, with little about bringing the baby home, baby’s physical and emotional development, the fears mothers can have before the birth or afterwards, the importance of fathers or the role of fathers in the birth and transition to parenthood. Paternity leave helps fathers to be more involved but education about the transition and realistic expectations will make an enormous difference.

Parents need to know what to expect when they bring their baby home.

The research in both Britain and the USA shows that within three years after the birth of baby two thirds of couples experience a significant decrease in their relationship satisfaction. This dissatisfaction can lead to relationship discord and an increase in conflict with negative effects on the couples, infants and toddlers.

Research by Dr John Gottman has shown that preparation for the transition to parenthood helps couples during this challenging time. It also helps them to build a strong emotional foundation in their family during the very early stages of a child’s life. Once this foundation is established in a family, children do better at school, adapt better socially and are physically and emotionally healthier.

Parents can help each other through this storm of new emotional and physical experiences by understanding that these changes happen, are completely normal and that preparing for them and talking about them will help to find the best possible solutions.

It takes time to recover from childbirth. As well as physical recovery there is an emotional adjustment because identities change. At this stage relationship roles can become more traditional and this is often a source of strain for the relationship.

Supporting each other during stressful times and developing communication and conflict resolution skills, will help to establish helpful roles within the new family.

Sleep Deprivation and exhaustion can make both parents depressed so it’s important to manage the sleep together to prevent the exhaustion. The physical adjustment to breastfeeding in the first few months after the birth and round the clock feeding can cause serious sleep deprivation, catching a nap when baby is sleeping instead of catching up on domestic chores will refresh you. Taking turns to catch up on sleep at week-ends can also help to cope with sleep deprivation. If your baby isn't on a regular nap schedule, take advantage of offers of help from friends and relatives and use the time to sleep for a while.

New babies are active sleepers. If your baby is groaning or whimpering in the night, that doesn't mean you need to jump out of bed. Try to wait a little and the baby might settle back to sleep. By waiting you will get to know your baby’s feeding cues and respond to them appropriately. Understanding early infant crying, states of infant

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consciousness and your baby’s emotional communication will help to develop appropriate responses to your baby and create a secure emotional bond with baby.

It’s important that both parents have the emotional support they need and that fathers can also access similar support to mothers. Father’s involvement with the baby can be through feeding, bathing, changing or simply playing with their baby. It’s also important to create a balance in the relationship so that both partner and child are included.

Try to restore emotional intimacy as soon as possible after the baby’s birth. This is the key to maintaining relationship satisfaction. Consult your Doctor if baby blues persist or challenges with physical recovery are factors. Although your relationship and life may change dramatically, you will both love the same little person, which can be an enormous bond and connection between you. Despite the stressors, there are also times of great joy, laughter and pleasure.

For more information on The Bringing Baby Home Workshop, Emotion Coaching in the first five years and Coaching Courses for parents of children from toddler to adolescence contact: Frances Byatt-Smith, Edinburgh Parent Centre T: 0131 664 3477. E: info@edinburghparentcentre.com www.edinburghparentcentre.com Next Bringing Baby Home workshop: Tuesday March 15th & 22nd 2016 6-9pm @ Babies & Bumps Cafe 13-15 Churchill Place. Edinburgh EH10 4BE

Treat your baby to real nappies Changeworks’ Real Nappy Project offers all the advice and information you need to get started with real nappies.

You can get starter and lending kits so you can try the nappies out to see if they are right for you. You can also go along to one of the monthly ‘Nappuccino’ coffee mornings, where you can find out about reusable nappies from other parents and volunteers who already use them.

“I’m utterly convinced it’s the right thing to do. They give you everything you need to experience using real nappies.”

Laura, Edinburgh mum Low impact and pocket friendly Reusable nappies are gentle on the environment, and your baby. They allow you to reduce your family’s impact on landfill (avoiding 156 black bin bags full of disposable nappy waste per child) and don’t contain skin irritating chemicals or gels. Cloth nappies are also much cheaper than disposables: a set of wraps and absorbent nappies costs from £30 upwards. This avoids spending at least £250 a year on disposables. It’s still possible to have the best of both worlds though, as disposable nappies can come in handy in an emergency or during the weeks after childbirth when everything can be overwhelmingly new.

Meet other parents to find out more Come along to a free Changeworks’ Nappuccino event and meet other parents and volunteers who decided to ‘go real’. You can also check out the wide range of real nappies available, buy a starter or lending kit and good quality second hand nappies.

Nappuccinos take place monthly in Leith and Tollcross. For full details, go to News and Events on Changeworks’ website.

Starter and lending kits The Real Nappy Project offers incentive kits for families in Edinburgh. They contain a wide selection of the most modern and practical reusable nappies, such as the new Tots Bots Bamboozle Stretch. You can choose between a starter kit, which includes £45 worth of new nappies and accessories to keep, or a lending kit, which contains thirty nappies of eight different styles to borrow. Both kits come in three baby sizes, cost £12 each for people living in Edinburgh, and are a low cost way to help you make an informed decision. If you live in the Lothian’s, please get in touch to ask about costs.

What is the lending kit like? Find out from an Edinburgh mum We caught up with Laura, who tried a Real Nappy Project lending kit, and asked her how she got on: Laura first considered real nappies whilst rethinking her family budget. Laura said, “I worked out that at best, we usually spend about £24 a month on nappies and then about £20 on wipes [at least £528 a year]. This figure is dependent on continually being organised enough to buy in bulk, which I also know is utterly unlikely!”

For Laura, discovering that she spent more on nappies than tasty fruit and veg in a month was a good reason to change. Laura looked into reusable wipes and nappies, something she had previously written off as being a bit hippy or alternative. Luckily Laura discovered the Real Nappy Project and one week into her trial of the lending kit said, “I was utterly convinced it’s the right thing to do. They give you everything you need to experience using real nappies and include a variety of different types for you to try.”

Laura’s absolute favourite was the Charlie Banana pocket nappy, along with a mix of two-part system nappies. She also rapidly became a big fan of the reusable cheeky wipes system, which allowed her to ditch expensive and binfilling disposable wipes.

Laura with son Thomas, © Anna Moffat Photography

Read about Laura’s real nappy experience on her blog Edinburgh Life with Kids.

If you are interested in giving real nappies a go, have any questions or would like to volunteer with us, please get in touch with the Real Nappy team or come along to one of our Nappuccino coffee mornings.

Changeworks is an environmental charity. We work with people and organisations to provide practical ways to live and work more sustainably.

Contact us Call 0131 555 4010 Email realnappies@changeworks.org.uk For our latest news visit www.changeworks.org.uk And follow ChangeworksUK on Facebook and Twitter

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Baby and Toddler Classes From as early as 6 weeks you and your baby can join a class together. And it’s not just your baby who will benefit from the classes. Lots of parents tell us that they’ve made really strong, supportive friendships with people they’ve met at a weekly class for their little one.

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

pa We rti d es o to o!

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

Baby Sensory

Daisy Baby™

When parents come to a Baby Sensory class, they discover a myriad of ways in which they can interact and have fun with their babies. Our babies are remarkably clever and everything that they see, touch, hear, taste or smell increases the number of connections between the brain cells. Each Baby Sensory class is different and takes you and your baby on a wonderful sensory journey with puppet and light shows, singing and signing, patting and clapping, playing and hiding the list is endless!

For details of Baby Sensory classes in Edinburgh East please contact Helen Laidlaw on 07771 924928; email edinburgheast@babysensory.co.uk and in Edinburgh Central please contact Hayley Robertson on 07985166192 email: edinburghcentral@babysensory.co.uk or visit www.babysensory.com

Daisy Tinies is a lovely, gentle first stage class for you and your new baby. Sessions will introduce you to baby led massage routines combined with gentle movements and soft stretch, along with tips and techniques to help soothe and settle your new baby and newborn education to help you understand and navigate the first few months with your baby.

And there is time for Mum too, with each class including peer support, gentle postnatal movements and finishing with a mum and baby relaxation. The Daisy Foundation Edinburgh offers small inclusive classes suitable from 6 weeks, which are a great way to meet other new Mums too.

Contact Kathryn on 07968 200760 or kathryn-lawrence@thedaisyfoundation.com to find out more and book.

www.tumbletots.com/Edinburgh

YogaBellies Post Natal Yoga is all about your BAPs: Back, Abs and Pelvic floor!

The body undergoes huge change during pregnancy and childbirth. YogaBellies for Mum and Baby is a unique post natal yoga class which focuses on mum’s three main areas of concern: the back, the abdominal muscles and the pelvic floor. We focus on rebuilding these three key areas at a pace that suits you.

As the integrity of each of these key areas is interconnected, we work on all three at once to help bring back structural integrity to your body.

At YogaBellies for Mum and Baby, we don’t “put baby in the corner” while you practice yoga.

Our exclusive post natal classes also incorporate baby yoga postures for your little one too so that they can practice with mummy! As every aspect of your life will include baby now, we help you integrate baby into your yoga practice, while feeling the benefits of yoga for you too. You will also learn breath awareness and relaxation techniques, which help to increase energy levels and allow you to relax while with baby (yes it is possible!!)

Yoga provides a wonderful resource for you and your baby that allows you to deal positively with stress, and encourage mindful relaxation in your role as a mother and to help gently guide the body and mind back to their former glory. For details on classes in Edinburgh and Midlothian contact rosy@yogabellies.co.uk visit yogabellies.co.uk

TuTu Tots- Where dancing with Mum is lots of fun!

Come along and join in this fantastic ballet based introduction to creative movement for tiny dancers from the age of 2 with a participating adult (Dads and Grannies welcome!)

We provide the tutu so no need for dance gear or changing. The class runs on a drop in basis during term time so no need to pre-book or commit to a term, just come along and join the fun. Classes held at our Granton dance studio with plenty free off road parking, Tuesdays 10.4511.15, Saturdays 10.00-10.30. niki@waterfrontdance.co.uk 07772504958

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Monkey Music Monkey Music North Edinburgh - Award Winning Preschool Weekly music activities for children from 3 months - 5 yrs.

Now is the time to come and book a free trial with Monkey Music, where all our children learn in an age specific curricula based classes, in a really fun environment under the guidance of Monkey and his friends.

There are lots of games and laughter, music and singing and fun with over 15 different percussion instruments each term. Each class is tailored to the children attending, so that everyone can get the maximum out of each session. Each child is nurtured and encouraged to learn at their own pace in a safe in a caring teaching environment with highly experienced guidance from Rachel and Monkey. The progressive curricula challenges, encourages and allows creative flow as the children learn through play.

To arrange to have a have a free trial class in Stockbridge, Cramond, Murrayfield or Comely Bank contact Rachel on comelybank.corstorphine@monkeymusic.co.uk or check out the website www.monkeymusic.co.uk. You can join Monkey Music at any point in the term and should you ever miss a class we offer a free catch up class. We look forward to welcoming you to Monkey Music.

Gymboree Gymboree is the UK's largest and most comprehensive pre-school learning programme, offering award-winning classes for babies, toddlers and pre-schoolers from New-born through to 5 years. Gymboree's unique classes have been designed by experts in childhood development and feature a parent or carer as a fully participating play partner Gymboree Edinburgh offers Play and Learn, Pre-School, Art and Music classes, all of which are a great way to encourage learning for little ones with fun activities that encourage their physical, cognitive and social skills.

“With our developmentally structured lessons and custom designed gym apparatus you can come along with your child and begin a future of funfilled learning”.

Gymboree is suitable for children ages 0-5 years old.

Classes run all year round from our venue at 3 Gorgie Park Road, Edinburgh, EH14 1NL. edinburgh@gymboree-uk.com www.gymboree-uk.com/edinburgh

Kindermusik

Talking Tots and Baby Talk

And they’re off! Babies and toddlers grow and learn at an amazing pace. Seemingly one minute your child needs to be swaddled up snuggly and the next minute your little one wobbles (or runs!) around the room. At Kindermusik, Ellie uses music and movement to nurture and guide all the learning that takes place during these years. Your child will love playing, moving, bonding and singing with you (and new friends!) in this fun-filled music class. It’s never too early to give your baby & toddler a musical start.

Come join the fun and experience the delight of watching your child learn and grow in Kindermusik with Ellie's classes. www.kindermusikwithellie.co.uk email: Kindermusik_with_Ellie@hotmail.com phone: 07962678561

My name is Zoe and I’m delighted to be taking over Talking Tots Edinburgh and launching our new baby classes!

BabyTalk is a new six week course where you and your baby will learn more about early communication together. Suitable from 4 months, each class focuses on a key topic such as eye contact or copying. Informative and fun, Baby Talk is also a great way to meet other mums!

Talking Tots’ unique and interactive classes (12 months to 5 years) encourage confident communication, listening and turn-taking, through a variety of group activities, games, songs and stories.

To find out more about BabyTalk or our regular classes contact Zoe Hayes on 07595 002278, visit www.talkingtots.info/Edinburgh or find us on Facebook - TalkingTotsEdinburgh

Tumble Tots

Tatty and Baby Bumpkin Yoga-inspired Activities!

Tumble Tots is the leading National Active Play Programme for children from six months to seven years.

Gymbabes classes are tailor-made for babies from 6 months to walking confidently and who are just discovering their own bodies and all the wonderful things they can do with them. The classes encourage your baby’s physical development by introducing them to a stimulating tactile new world of sensations. With parental participation, babies are gently encouraged to use their senses playing, exploring, crawling and learning in a fun and relaxed atmosphere. Once your little one is then proficient at walking they move up to the Walking to 2 years class, where they continue to explore their bodies in a safe and caring environment with brightly coloured equipment and trained staff the children practice to climb, to balance, complete forward rolls, improve co-ordination, problem solving, and social skills, increase their selfconfidence and so much more whilst of course having a great deal of fun and making new friends.

We have classes in Morningside, Fairmilehead, Haddington, Marchmont and Joppa please Call Jo on 01875 819966 or email joletelier.lobos@virgin.net

Baby Bumpkin: Fun sessions for babies and toddlers combining baby/toddler yoga, stories, music, rhymes and sensory activities to gently stimulate and relax. Great for encouraging movement and enhancing development.

“Sophie enjoys Baby Bumpkin so much - her face lights up when she hears the music and she loves the storytelling. I've noticed that since starting Baby Bumpkin at 4 months she has developed a love of music and dance, and a good sense of rhythm. Her mobility is also developing rapidly.” Louise Gourmelen, mother of Sophie, 10 months Tatty Bumpkin: yoga poses, breath awareness and relaxation adapted for ages 2 – 7, all set to stories with music.

Venue: Morningside United Church 6 weeks to pre-crawling: Fridays 11.20am Crawlers and Toddlers: Fridays 10.25am 2 – 5 year olds: Fridays 9.30am Sessions also available in nurseries and schools – look out for us!

More information at www.tattybumpkin.com/edinburghwest.

Contact edinburghwest@tattybumpkin.com to book.

Baby and Toddler Music Classes in Musselburgh Building on the success of our baby and toddler music classes in Portobello, which are always fully subscribed, we have now begun a new series of classes on Tuesdays at The Fisherrow Community Centre in Musselburgh.

We offer three times slots depending on the age of your child. 9.30am (1-2 years); 10.15am (2-3 years); and 11.00am (birth to 1 year).

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

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Easter Camps

Picture Courtesy of

Holiday clubs are a great way for your child to learn a new skill, meet new friends or spend extra time on a hobby they already enjoy.

And once again Edinburgh doesn’t disappoint with the variety of activities on offer!

Drama, Dancing, Life Saving, Den Building and Trampolining to name but a few.

No one needs to be bored this Easter Break!

oscars

PentlanDs activity camPs (Pac)

OSCARS is delighted to confirm its Easter 2016 children’s holiday programmes at various locations across Edinburgh and The Lothians.

Our Easter holiday programmes will once again feature a wide range of activities, theme days and excursions specially designed to cater for the different needs and interests of all children attending.

PLAY, CREATE, LEARN – our aim is for children to have a great deal of fun in the safest environment possible, and gain experiences that they will remember for a long time – they will never be bored, indeed they will want to come back for more!

Our Easter holiday programme offers flexibility for parents with long opening hours at an all-inclusive price, with your child able to attend for any combination of half days, full days or weeks.

For further information on our Easter holiday programmes, please visit our website at www.oscarschildcare.com or contact a member of our team on 0131 557 7500 or by email at admin@oscarschildcare.com

steP it uP Dance Fun and Funky Easter Camp The Step it Up Dance Team are running a fun and funky Easter Camp for HIP HOP Juniors 3 – 7yrs at the Wishing Tree Play Café in Musselburgh.

The Camp will run from Monday 4th April - Friday 8th April 10am – 12 noon each day £40 for the week camp Grown ups will get a Hot Drink and Delicious Cake for just £3 Book online at www.stepitupdance.co.uk

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

This April PAC is back at Netherurd House in Blyth Bridge, in the beautiful Scottish Borders, only 30 minutes south of the Edinburgh city bypass.

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

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

PAC welcomes all school-age children.

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

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

EASTER COURSES 2016 DRAMA THEATRE & TELEVISION COURSE

JUNIOR DRAMA THE MAGIC TOY BOX

P4-S4

P1-P3

Mon 4th April - Fri 8th April 9.30am - 4.30pm

Mon 4th April - Fri 8th April 9.30am-12.30pm Wrap around care available

VENUE: THE EDINBURGH ACADEMY JUNIOR SCHOOL EARLY DROP OFF AND LATE PICKUP AVAILABLE TEL: 07542 191 495 INFO@THEACTINGSCENE.CO.UK

WWW.THEACTINGSCENE.CO.UK 18 FAMILIES EDINBURGH ISSUE 95

Tuesday 29th March to Friday 8th April 2016 Holiday Care – for ages 4.5-12+years (but primarily ages 4.5-7 years).

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

Sports Camp – For Primary 4 + Sports camp will offer the children the opportunity to experience a range of different sports.

Online booking ONLY at www.sascs.org.uk is available until 21st March 2016 (midnight).

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

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

Easter Camps sascs

Drama stuDio sPring holiDay cluB BooKing now The Drama Studio's very popular Spring Holiday Club for students aged 5-14 is running as follows: 4-8 April Liberton Kirk Halls, Kirkgate, Liberton Fantastic week meeting new friends, doing activities such as Drama, Art and Craft, puppets, filming, song, dance, dressing up, soft ball, parachute games, performing and outside activities weather permitting.

Different afternoon activities for every age group and Senior Drama Performance Course (The Guests Grim!) for age 10 + Go to www.thedramastudio.com to HOLIDAY CLUB and read excellent Parent Reviews, more details and to register. 0131-453-3284 or e-mail info@thedramastudio.com £135 Full days, £85 Mornings, £70-£80 Afternoons (drop-in afternoons also available). A great week guaranteed!

excel sPorts Excel Sports Academy Easter Camp at St Georges School for Girls is open to all children who attend any school.

We offer a variety of organised activities for children aged 5-15 years to suit each age group. It’s a great chance for them to make new friends, or come along in a group. Children follow a structured timetable each day which is led by our friendly fully qualified staff and sports coaches. They will ensure your children have fun, learn new skills and enjoy the Excel experience.

Excel have exactly what your children need this Easter. The week will have a variety of sporting activities, tournaments, team games and film making. Parents are invited to attend the end of week show on Friday at 4.30pm in the theatre to watch the highlights of the week, film making on the big screen and the prize giving.

New for 2016 Easter camp - learn basic life saving skills.

4th-8th April 2016 - cost: £188.00 Ages: 5-15 years Open 8am-6pm Packed Day of Activities: 9am-5pm

SASCS will be operating Holiday Care and Sports Camp during the Easter Holidays, Tuesday 29th March to Friday 8th April 2016, in Sciennes Primary School, 10 Sciennes Road, Edinburgh, EH9 1LG. Holiday Care – for children aged 4.5-12+years (but primarily aimed at children aged 4.5-7years) Holiday Care offers a range of activities including; crafts, science, baking, sports and outdoor games.

Full Day - £19.00; Half Day - £11.50. Trip - £24.00.

Sports Camp – for children in Primary 4 and up.

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

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

All Parents / Carers please note that online booking ONLY, via our website (www.sascs.org.uk) is available between 12th February to 21st March 2016 (midnight).

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

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

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

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

We accept Sodexo, Kiddivouchers and Edenred childcare Vouchers.

The morning sessions will run from 10am to 12.30pm, the afternoon sessions from 1.30pm to 4pm.

The dates for the Play Schemes are Tuesday 29th March, Friday 1st, Monday 4th, Tuesday 5th and Friday 8th April 2015.

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

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Easter Camps Dance Base easter school

©Maria Falconer

Dance : Music Making : Animation Ages 7 – 9 & 10 – 12 | Mon 4 – Fri 8 Apr | 10.00 – 17.00 £125 (£100 for additional children from the same family) This is an Easter School like no other, taking place in the spectacular Dance Base studios in the Grassmarket.

Bring the noise for these fun filled sessions of dance, percussion and animation! Young dancers will shake, rattle and roll while making friends and learning new skills from expert teachers, before sharing their work in front of family and friends at the end of the week. To book, call 0131 225 5525 or go to dancebase.co.uk

KiDscene easter holiDay cluB Kidscene provides after school and holiday care to children of all abilities with a welcoming, fun and stimulating environment where children feel safe, comfortable and supported.

This year our Easter Holiday Club will run on weekdays from 29 March to 8 April between the hours of 8.30am and 5.30pm. We offer an integrated child care service that welcomes children with and without disabilities between the ages of 4 and 16. We especially welcome children with visual impairments.

Our newly refurbished premises are based in the Morningside area of Edinburgh, on the Royal Blind School campus.

Our facilities include a messy room, a play room and a kitchen for snacks, all with full disabled access. Our play room is split between a variety of activities to suit children of different ages and interests and incorporates a chill out zone, imagination area for role play with dressing up clothes, construction area with lego, bricks and cars, board games and puzzles, a sensory area and Xbox 360 Connect.

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

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

eDinBurgh leisure Easter is fast approaching and as ever we’ve got lots on across the city to keep tots to teens entertained and having fun!

Tennis, swimming, climbing, trampolining, activator multi-activity camps, and much more.

Whether you’re looking for full day camps, top class sports coaching or just some fun stuff to do in the holiday – we’ve got it all!

Visit edinburghleisure.co.uk to find out more.

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Easter Camps chilDren's easter clay worKshoPs

the acting scene The Acting Scene are running their popular full and part-time Drama Camps within The Edinburgh Academy School.

These fun courses are for 5-16 year olds. Early years course is The Magic Toy Box. Seniors is a bespoke Theatre & Television course. Since it’s inception the company has delivered courses to thousands of primary and secondary school children across Edinburgh and the Lothian’s. All have gained self-confidence, improved selfesteem, but most of all had fun. Participants will work with directors and tutors who’ve attended some of the UK’s top drama schools and are currently still working as professionals in their chosen fields.

Monday 4th April – Friday 8th April P1-P3 9.30am-12.30pm P4-S4 9.30-4.30pm All courses are led by PVG checked tutors.

For more information and to book email: info@theactingscene.co.uk Facebook: www.facebook.com/TheActingScene www.theactingscene.co.uk

Kings camPs easter camP Tuesday 5th April - Make and paint animal egg cups in clay Wednesday 6th April - Make and paint a family of animal figures in clay Thursday 7th April - Make and paint your own clay daffodil flower pot Running 10.30am - 12pm each day. £12.50 per class (includes juice and a mid morning snack).

Suitable for age 7 and up.

Doodles Ceramics Workshop, 29 Marchmont Crescent Edinburgh EH9 1HQ 0131 229 1399

4 - 8 April Stewart’s Melville College, Queensferry Road, Edinburgh Join us this Easter break for a holiday camp that lets your child experience a huge range of sports and activities in beautiful surroundings with fantastic indoor and outdoor facilities.

Visit the website for more information: https://www.kingscamps.org/booking /edinburgh-stewart-melville

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Easter Activities and Days out

Easter means different things to different people but to many of us it means chocolate!

And eggs. Egg shaped chocolate. And bunnies. Possibly bunny shaped chocolate…. cadbury easter egg hunt For the ninth consecutive year, the National Trust for Scotland has teamed up with Cadbury to host dozens of Cadbury Easter Egg Hunts across the country from Friday 25 to Monday 28 March.

The Easter Bunny has left clues to follow, and children can collect them, solve the puzzle and claim a chocolatey reward.

Highlights include Newhailes and Inveresk Lodge Garden in Musselburgh, The Georgian House, in Edinburgh's New Town and Preston Mill in East Linton.

Carly Lamberty, Marketing Manager said: "We're getting cracking on our visitor season extra early this year, with lots of Easter fun thanks to our partnership with Cadbury. And every egg hunt helps us to look after the special places in our care."

Each of the hunts is completely different – the perfect excuse to try your hand at more than one!

For details see nts.org.uk

Family event Day; Faberge Family Fun Saturday 26 March 2016 Visit us on the Easter weekend and take part in our Egg Hunt, inspired by the beautiful Fabergé eggs collected by royalty. Visit the Throne Room and find out how these amazing eggs were made as you get hands on with some replica Fabergé. Have your face painted in the style of a Fabergé egg before making one of your own. Before you leave join our storyteller in the Great Gallery and listen as the portraits of ancient kings of Scotland come to life through imaginative tales. Pick up a family activity trail and explore the Abbey and Palace gardens A fun day out for all the family! Opening times 09:30 – 18:00 (last entry 16:30).

COME BACK FOR FREE! Once you have bought a ticket from us, you can use it to come back for FREE for a year! A great way to fill the school holidays at no extra cost! The Palace of Holyroodhouse, Edinburgh, EH8

Personal Affordable Tutoring Maths/English P1 - P7 & S1 - S3

0131 449 5521 patstutoring.co.uk 22 FAMILIES EDINBURGH ISSUE 95

Join the Easter Bunny at our Mad Hatters Tea Parties on Good Friday 25th March from 2 – 4pm or Saturday 26th March from 11 – 1pm Decorate your very own Mad hat, go on an egg hunt, munch loads of yummy snacks and bounce around in the soft play!

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

Tickets are limited so make sure you book in advance.

Its only £7.50 per child for 1 – 7yrs and under 1s go Free Follow us on facebook so you don’t miss out on our exciting events or call today on 0131 665 1588 or www.wishingtreeplaycafe.com

Beano the Clown

PAT'S TUTORING One to One

easter Fun at the wishing tree Play café

Age specific football training for children at walking age - 7 years.

For more info contact: 07923 005534 Email: j.smith@soccerstarts.co.uk www.soccerstarts.co.uk

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

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

Easter Activities and Days out eastereggstravaganZa at traquair house Easter Sunday 27th March Grounds open 11.00am, with activities from midday The Biggest egg hunt in the Borders and lots more fun activities all day.

Traquair House, Innerleithen EH44 6PW

the Botanics Bunny and the hunt for the golden egg

an eggcellent easter egg competition!

With Easter just around the corner, why don’t you get the kids decorating those eggs early to be in with a chance of winning a HUGE Easter Egg, gift voucher and goody bag from Maddie & Mark’s Shoes. Each of their stores (Blackhall, Bruntsfield & Portobello) are asking children to let their imagination go wild and decorate an egg (yolk removed please!) to be displayed in their shop windows.

Every child that brings in their creation (from Saturday 12th March to Thursday 24th March) will get a yummy chocolate egg in return. Maddie & Mark’s customers will then vote for their favourite egg over Easter weekend and the winner (announced at the end of the day on Easter Tuesday) will get a GIANT EASTER EGG, as well as a gift voucher and goody bag!

All customers who vote will be entered in to a prize draw to win a Maddie & Mark’s Shoes voucher worth £30. Sounds like every one’s a winner and a fun filled way to get eggstra choccy this Easter. Happy decorating!

24 March - 3 April The Botanics Bunny and the Hunt for the Golden Egg All ages. Pick up a trail map from the John Hope Gateway reception desk or the East Gate entrance. £1 per trail. This Easter, the Botanics Bunny is on the hunt for a golden egg – can you help find it? Hop along our new trail, find out about some feathered friends in the Garden, and complete the quest! RBGE 27 March easter explorers 13:00 – 16:00, Botanic Cottage. Free Come along to the Garden for our fun family day out this Easter Sunday.

Get cracking at being creative in our hands-on activities as you decorate a botanical Easter egg.

Don’t forget to follow our top tips trail to discover the best that nature has to offer for all ages this Easter.

Keep an eye on the Jenn’s Dens Facebook page to find out what’s happening over Easter. Jenn’s Den, 31 Corbiehill Road, Edinburgh www.jennsden.co.uk 0131 312 7077

easter at gorgie city Farm Saturday 26th March and Sunday 27th March Egg painting, Face-painting, Treasure Hunts. Drop In and enjoy.

Gorge City Farm, 51 Gorgie Road, Edinburgh

make your own easter egg Bunting You’ll need: • Plain white paper • Poster paints • Stickers • Glitter • Glue • Scraps of paper, fabric and wool • Mini pegs • String • Cut out lots of Easter egg shapes from the paper.

• Get the kids to use paint to create patterns on the eggs; stripes and circles work well.

• Next, use the scraps of craft fabrics and stickers to make the eggs even more decorative.

Use some glue to create lines or shapes and scatter the glitter for the final touch.

When the egg shapes are dry, hang them on a piece of string with the colourful pegs. If you can’t find pegs, use coloured paper clips or simply thread the string through a hole in the top of each egg.

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Out&About

Further details on events listed can be found at www.familiesedinburgh.co.uk/w

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

MARCH Until 29 April BuilD it! adventures with lego® Bricks The National Museum of Scotland, Chambers Street, Edinburgh, EH1 1JF 0300 123 6789 Grand Gallery, Level 1. Free Renowned artist in LEGO® bricks, Warren Elsmore and his team display some of their most beautiful and intricate mini-buildings and models in our Grand Gallery. To add to the set, they will also be on-site, building a special three metre model of our very own museum. But don’t let them have all the fun. Join us for some hands-on LEGO® brick activities from February till April. Get creative in the Builders’ Yard, help us make a special sculpture of one of our most-loved museum objects, or build your own masterpiece.

27 February create North Edinburgh Arts Centre 15a Pennywell Court, Edinburgh, EH4 4TZ

28 February storytelling - costumes and Disguises The Scottish National Portrait Gallery, 1 Queen Street, Edinburgh, EH2 1JD Join storyteller and musician Marion Kenny to hear folktales all about costumes and disguises. Learn of intrigue and mystery at Queen Anne of Denmark's famous masquerade balls, Bonnie Prince Charlie and Flora MacDonald's plucky escape to Skye; the Goddess of weaving Athena's journey to the land of Lydia, and the disguise of Lady Jean Hamilton and Gypsy Johnny which led to fatal consequences!

Ages 7+. 2pm and 3pm 2 March - 15 April live Build The National Museum of Scotland, Chambers Street, Edinburgh, EH1 1JF 0300 123 6789 Grand Gallery, Level 1Free. Watch Warren Elsmore's team create a large LEGO® brick model of our very own museum.

11am - 4pm. Every Wednesday and Friday.

3 March Babies First The National Museum of Scotland, Chambers Street Edinburgh, EH1 1JF 0300 123 6789 Free. Book online limited spaces available, book online or sign up on the day at the Information Desk. A Magic Carpet session exclusively for first-time parents, grandparents and carers and their little one (up to 18 months). Enjoy some quality social time exploring the museum through songs, rhymes, actions and play. Supported by players of the Peoples Postcode Lottery. 11.30 - 11.55 4 March ecoKidz North Edinburgh Arts Centre 15a Pennywell Court, Edinburgh, EH4 4TZ Exciting craft project for children to design and make a range of original, mini artworks using recycled materials with the idea of retailing finished work. Age 8-12 yrs time 1.45-3.15pm 1.45 - 3.15pm

Drop-in, artist led creative and messy art sessions for under 5’s and their parents/carers combined with inspiring storytelling and colourful Montessori sessions. 10am – 12pm (Thursdays) 10.30am – 12.30pm (Saturdays) / 50p/ £3 27 February saturday arts North Edinburgh Arts Centre, 15a Pennywell Court, Edinburgh, EH4 4TZ Inspiring, colourful and fun recycled art and craft workshops for children to create something special to take home.age 5 - 7 years time 10.30 – 11.20am age 8 – 12 years time 11.40am – 12.30pm / cost 50p GN / £3 full, includes snack. Every Saturday in term time.

28 February my neighbour totoro Filmhouse, 88 Lothian Road, Edinburgh, EH3 9BZ www.filmhousecinema.com

4 March nappuccino Pregnancy and Parent Centre 10 Lower Gilmore Place, Edinburgh, EH3 9NY Come along to one of our Nappuccino coffee mornings, an informal, friendly ‘one stop’ event which will meet all of 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. You can also buy great value good quality second hand nappies. Any income generated is ploughed back into the Real Nappy Project to continue providing services such as the lending kits. 10 - 11.30am 5 March creative writing workshops for children The Scottish Storytelling Centre 43 - 45 High Street, Edinburgh, EH1 1SR If you enjoy writing stories, or would like to enjoy it more, come along to an afternoon workshop held in the Storytelling Centre with prize-winning authorJanis Mackay(Magnus Fin and the Ocean Quest,The Accidental Time Traveller). The group will start by finding story ideas and then – start writing a novel! It will be a fun session and who knows where it might lead. 2pm (2 hours) / £16 5 - 6 March Dunbar sciFest Family weekend Dunbar Primary School, John Muir Campus, Lammermuir Crescent, Dunbar, East Lothian, EH42 1DG www.dunbarscifest.org.uk New stage shows, drop in sessions, workshops, storytelling sessions and the SCI-FUN interactive exhibition. 10am 5pm / Family £15 (up to 3 children), Adult £5, Children £3, Under 5's free ©Jon Savage Photography

In this beautiful tale by Hayao Miyazaki, two young girls find that their new country home is inhabited by mystical, friendly creatures named totoros, who lead them on a magical adventure which also helps them to understand the realities of life. Part of Filmhouse Junior - Filmhouse's regular series of Sunday morning films from around the world for family audiences. 11am / £4

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Out&About

whats-on including any contact or further booking information.

5 March edinburgh Fairtrade Festival Southside Community Centre, 117 Nicolson Street, Edinburgh, EH8 9ER Join us at Southside Community Centre on Saturday 5th March for the Edinburgh Fair Trade Festival, part of our Fairtrade Fortnight celebrations. The Festival brings together Fair Trade stalls, speakers, delicious free refreshments, music, storytelling and Fairtrade producers. The event is free, for all ages and will also host singers from Edinburgh Choir and have the accomplished Kenyan Scottish storyteller Mara Menzies enchanting attendees with her wonderful tales. 10.30am - 2.30pm 5 March nearly new sale and real nappy and sling information Day Pregnancy and Parent Centre, 10 Lower Gilmore Place, Edinburgh, EH3 9NY Come along to our fantastic Nearly New Sale & Nappy and Sling Information Day on Saturday 5th March from 10am-1pm. Grab a pregnancy or baby bargain, chat to advisors about nappies and watch sling demonstrations. We are a charity supporting expectant parents and young families and all profits go to the Centre. 10am - 1pm 6 March art maker The Scottish National Gallery, The Mound, Edinburgh, EH2 2EL Join the Art Maker Club and make your own masterpieces with artists Tessa Asquith-Lamb and Louise Fraser. Supported by the Friends of the National Galleries of Scotland. For ages 4 - 12.

14.00 - 16.00 6 March mother's Day Doodles Ceramic Workshop, 29 Marchmont Crescent, Edinburgh, EH9 1HQ 0131 229 1399 There are lots of amazing gift ideas to be painted in advance, or bring Mum along on the day to paint and she receives a complimentary glass of fizz and a sweet treat. See website for opening hours / Prices vary 8 March tiny tales: teddy Bears' Picnic The Scottish Storytelling Centre, 43 - 45 High Street, Edinburgh, EH1 1SR Join Lorna Shields from the award winning It's in the bag and her shy but friendly puppet pal Sam. Bring your favourite teddy and journey into the woods for a Teddy Bears’ Picnic... What delights will the teddies have in store? A wonderful interactive session for little ones, with puppets, props and lots of well-known nursery rhymes throughout. Please book in advance.

For ages 1 - 3yrs. 10am & 11.30am (40mins) / £5 per child 12 March celts for Families The National Museum of Scotland Chambers Street Edinburgh, EH1 1JF 0300 123 6789 Free (drop-in) Join us for a day of family-friendly activities to celebrate the opening of Celts, our major exhibition organised in partnership with the British Museum. Discover the lives of the different groups who have used or been given the name ‘Celts’ and the extraordinary objects they made through storytelling, music and craft. 12.00 - 16.00 12 March wee treasures The Scottish National Portrait Gallery, 1 Queen Street, Edinburgh, EH2 1JD Welcome to our brand new regular storytelling programme especially for early years children and their families. Inspired by a different portrait each month, delve into our magic treasure chest to find out what the story will be. With fun rhymes and songs, puppet characters and lots of opportunities to join in, this is sure to become a firm favourite with little ones! Places limited, sign up on the day. For ages 2 - 4. 10.30am & 11.30am / Free. Drop in.

12th March saturday seed swap 10:30am - 3:30pm [Drop In] A great day for gardeners of all ages and abilities! The day will include workshops, a question and answer session and exhibitor stalls plus our communal seed swap. Gorge City Farm.

13 March Portrait Detectives The Scottish National Portrait Gallery, 1 Queen Street, Edinburgh, EH2 1JD Collect your kit, follow clues and solve a mystery from history! Supported by the friends of the National Galleries of Scotland. For ages 4 - 12. 14.00 - 16.00 13 March mary Poppins (u) Filmhouse, 88 Lothian Road, Edinburgh, EH3 9BZ www.filmhousecinema.com This delightful musical is one of the greatest family films of all time, still as fresh and entertaining as it was fifty years ago! Part of Filmhouse Junior - Filmhouse's regular series of Sunday morning films from around the world for family audiences. 11am / £4 15 & 22 March Bringing Baby home Babies and Bumps Cafe, 13 - 15 Church Hill Place, Edinburgh, EH10 4BE This three hour, two session workshop for new parents experiencing the transition to Parenthood. 6 - 9pm / £100 per couple 19 March st george’s school open morning 9.30 - 11.30am. Girls are invited to take part in some action-packed activities. These include ‘fascinating hands-on science’ in the dedicated junior school science room, outdoor learning in the ‘Fantastical Forest’, sport, art and more. If you would like to find out more, please contact Mrs Karen Batty in Admissions by telephoning 0131 311 8008 or emailing admissions@stge.org.uk.

19 March the story Kist: inclusive storytelling The Scottish Storytelling Centre, 43 - 45 High Street, Edinburgh, EH1 1SR Come and enjoy a gentle multi-sensory adventure about the coming of spring with storyteller Ailie Finlay and artist Fiona McDonald. Flying birds and squishy bugs! Puppets and games followed by multi-sensory springtime crafts. Lots of fun for everyone, but particularly suitable for children with additional needs, their families, friends and carers. 11am (1hr) / £5 per child 19 March - 9 April Puppet animation Festival Returns with an abounding and brilliant programme of puppetry, animation and workshops!

Find a venue near you at www.puppetanimationfestival.org.

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Out&About 19 March adventures with the gaelic tree alphabet The Scottish Storytelling Centre, 43 - 45 High Street, Edinburgh, EH1 1SR 0131 556 9579 An Gille Dubh/The Guardian of the Trees is so saddened by the clearing of his beloved land; he sits alone atop the highest mountains, ignoring his beautiful, prized possessions. It’s up to Sìne to tell his tale and share knowledge on the riches of our woodlands in this magical opportunity to learn and dream under a Gaelic spell, while creating an exciting Scottish forest adventure! Ariel Killick’s touching yet fun workshop explores Gaelic decline, the Highland Clearances and environmental issues with lots of Gaelic poetry and references throughout. 3pm (1 hour) / £6 20 March Bags of art The Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art, 75 Belford Road, Edinburgh, EH4 3DR Collect a bag of activities from the art station to help your family explore the collection and create your own artworks.

Led by artists Tessa Asquith-Lamb and Louise Fraser.

Supported by the Friends of the National Galleries of Scotland. Ages 4 - 12. 14.00 - 16.00 24 March - 3 April the Botanics Bunny and the hunt for the golden egg All ages. Pick up a trail map from the John Hope Gateway reception desk or the East Gate entrance. £1 per trail. This Easter, the Botanics Bunny is on the hunt for a golden egg – can you help find it? Hop along our new trail, find out about some feathered friends in the Garden, and complete the quest! RBGE 25 & 26 March easter Fun at the wishing tree Play café Book in advance. £7.50 per child for 1 – 7yrs (under 1s free). 0131 665 1588 or go to www.wishingtreeplaycafe.com Join the Easter Bunny at our Mad Hatters Tea Parties (25th March 2 – 4pm or 26th 11am - 1pm) Decorate your very own Mad hat, go on an egg hunt, munch loads of yummy snacks and bounce around in the soft play! All children will get a small chocolate egg from the Easter Bunny.

25 March - 17 April easter eggcitement Almond Valley Heritage Centre, Millfield, Livingston, West Lothian, EH54 7AR 01506 414957 www.almondvalley.co.uk The farm is alive with the cheeps and bleats of baby animals, who will be introduced to you at handling and encounter sessions. Grab your clue sheet, sharpen your pencil, and tear around the farm collecting clues on the springtime trail. Keep a look out for hidden eggs that might win you a prize. In the craft area you can make bonnets, masks and other springtime decorations. There will be still further special attractions over the four days of Easter (25th - 28th March), including our famous plastic duck race along the mill lade. See website for more information

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Further details on events listed can be found at www.familiesedinburgh 25 - 28 March cadbury easter egg hunts Full details of times and dates go to www.nts.org.uk

25 March - 10 April easter Fun at scottish seabird centre www.seabird.org Call: 01620 890 202 Captain Flap has crash landed his plane, Puffin One! He needs to learn the principles of flight so that he can repair his plane and re-programme his computer. Why did the plane crash? Does he need to redesign the wing or consider using a different type of fuel? During this interactive science show by the North Berwick seaside, Captain Flap will explore what can be learned from how birds fly so that he can finally make it home.

Not only that but there will be a whole host of Seaside Science Flying Fun interactive activities on throughout the week, led by the Seabird Centre’s Education Officer, Andrew Grieveson, with the chance to create kites and learn about the wonders of flight.

Captain Flap Flies Forth is on from 25 March to 10 April, Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays at 14:00. Seaside Science Flying Fun is on from 28 March to 7 April, Mondays to Thursdays at 14:00. Tickets are included with admission and will be allocated on a first-come, first served basis.

Please request tickets on arrival at the Centre.

Images feature Ruaraidh Purves and Freija Bevan, from North Berwick © Colin Hattersley. These events are part of the Edinburgh International Science Festival.

The Easter Bunny has left clues to follow, and children can collect them, solve the puzzle and claim a chocolatey reward. Newhailes and Inveresk Lodge Garden in Musselburgh, The Georgian House, in Edinburgh's New Town and Preston Mill in East Linton.

26th March & 27th March easter Fun at gorgie city Farm Egg painting, Face-painting, Treasure Hunts. Drop In and enjoy.

26 March - 9 April edinburgh international science Festival The City Arts Centre, 2 Market Street, Edinburgh, EH1 1DE www.sciencefestival.co.uk

25 March new hangar opening celebration The National Museum of Flight, East Fortune Airfield, East Lothian, EH39 5LF

Free with museum admission (drop-in) Meet the superheroes of the sky as we unveil two transformed hangars at the National Museum of Flight.

From defenders of the nation and jumping jets to supersonic passenger planes and airborne maternity wards, discover the superheroic powers behind the museum’s world class collection of aircraft and find out more about the heroes who flew them. 10am - 5pm / Normal admission charges apply

Visit Edinburgh International Science Festival’s spectacular science playground at City Art Centre over the 2016 Easter holidays. Don’t miss the chance to mix up Pongy Potions, experience the sounds of the jungle and discover the Secret Life of Coral. You can also enter the brain-boggling Carnival of the Mind and try your hand at fixing an engine in Mini Mechanics. With five floors jam packed full of engaging hands-on workshops and exciting interactive events suitable for ages 3-12, it’s a fantastic day out for all the family.

For times and prices see website.

26 March - 10 April the edinburgh international science Festival www.sciencefestival.co.uk Across the city including Festival hub Summerhall, the City Art Centre, the National Museum of Scotland and partner venues Dynamic Earth, Edinburgh Zoo and the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh.

Out&About

h.co.uk/whats-on including any contact or further booking information.

26 March Faberge Family Fun Visit us on the Easter weekend and take part in our Egg Hunt, inspired by the beautiful Fabergé eggs collected by royalty. Visit the Throne Room and find out how these amazing eggs were made as you get hands on with some replica Fabergé. Have your face painted in the style of a Fabergé egg before making one of your own. Before you leave join our storyteller in the Great Gallery and listen as the portraits of ancient kings of Scotland come to life through imaginative tales. Pick up a family activity trail and explore the Abbey and Palace gardens A fun day out for all the family! Opening times 09:30 – 18:00 (last entry 16:30).

26 March - 10 April easter at the Palace of holyroodhouse Join us for lots of fun over the Easter holidays! Solve riddles and complete puzzles to help you spot brightly coloured and sparkly eggs dotted around the Palace and learn about the history of the Palace with our family audio tour. During your visit drop in to the family room play games, get crafty and dress up. You can also pick up a family activity trail as you explore the Abbey and Palace gardens. Opening times 09:30 – 18:00 (last entry 16:30). COME BACK FOR FREE! Once you have bought a ticket from us, you can use it to come back for FREE for a year! A great way to fill the school holidays at no extra cost!

27 March Ponyo (u) Filmhouse, 88 Lothian Road, Edinburgh, EH3 9BZ www.filmhousecinema.com In Hayao Miyazaki's beautiful animated feature, five-year-old Sosuke lives with his mum in a house on a cliff overlooking the sea. One day Sosuke finds a strange-looking goldfish with a human face; he rescues her and calls her Ponyo. Part of Filmhouse Junior - Filmhouse's regular series of Sunday morning films from around the world for family audiences.

11am / £4

28 March Destination space: robots Dynamic Earth, Holyrood Road, Edinburgh, EH8 8AS The International Space Station is an amazing place!

On board the ISS, scientists and engineers creative innovative solutions to problems that are out of this world.

Join us as we showcase the achievements of those people who work tirelessly so that astronauts like Tim Peake can live and work in space. Come and explore some of the exciting technology used by engineers to support life on the ISS and get hands-on with robotic arms and heat tiles. See website for more information / Included in price of admission Weekdays 28th March-1st April and 4th – 8th April Farmers helpers workshops www.gorgiecityfarm.org.uk 10.00am-12:30pm Advance Booking Essential £10 per session, book 1 or more as desired.

Farm Tasks with the livestock and In the gardens, Fun Activities.

28 March - 2 April mini engineers The National Museum of Scotland, Chambers Street Edinburgh, EH1 1JF Grand Gallery, Level 1. Free. Suitable for ages 2-5 years (and accompanying adult). What happens when I turn a handle? How can I lift something heavy? Explore how cogs, wheels, pulleys and all kinds of mechanics help us in our everyday lives in this construction challenge for 3-5 year olds and their adult helper. 10:30-11:10 & 11:30-12:10

27 March Easter eggstravaganza Traquair House, Innerleithen, Peeblesshire, EH44 6PW The Biggest egg hunt in the Borders and lots more fun activities all day. Grounds open at 11am - activities from midday. See website for more information 27 March easter explorers 13:00 – 16:00, Botanic Cottage. Free Come along to the Garden for our fun family day out this Easter Sunday. Get cracking at being creative in our handson activities as you decorate a botanical Easter egg. Don’t forget to follow our top tips trail to discover the best that nature has to offer for all ages this Easter.

28 March step into spring: an easter adventure The Scottish Storytelling Centre, 43 - 45 High Street Edinburgh, EH1 1SR Spring has sprung so come and enjoy the fun with an active and creative workshop from Step It Up Dance. Along the way we may bump into the Easter bunny, maybe newly hatched chicks, or a lamb or two. For children and grown-ups to enjoy the Easter adventure together. 18 months - 6 years.

10.30am / £6 per child 29 & 30 March Double Dome nights Dynamic Earth, Holyrood Road, Edinburgh, EH8 8AS Sit back in a comfortable seat for a real full dome cinematic treat. Each night we'll be showing a combination of two 30 minute films including a chance to see From Earth to the Universe, the new planetarium experience from the European Southern Observatory. See website for more information. Included in Admission Price

29 & 30 March Jack and the lost harps The Scottish Storytelling Centre, 43 - 45 High Street, Edinburgh, EH1 1SR Join Heather Yule, spellbinding storyteller and harpist, on a story-walk around the Scottish Storytelling Centre. Through story, riddles and rhymes we will follow Jack as he seeks his fortune and unlocks the mystery of the kingdom that has no music. Solve the puzzles to find the lost magical harps and help Jack bring music back to the land. 10am (3-7yrs) & 2pm (8-12yrs) / £9 per child 30 March Puppetcraft: monkey!

The Brunton, Ladywell Way, Musselburgh, EH21 6AA Inspired by the ancient Chinese folk story, enjoy the adventures of a fantastical, comical superhero. Watch Monkey as he learns magic, makes mayhem, flies on a cloud, plays tricks, defeats a dragon, dodges death, and eats lots and lots of peaches - all in search of a Great Secret!. Ages 4 + 2pm / £7.50, £28 Family of 4

31 March - 1 April modern scottish Families The Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art, 75 Belford Road, Edinburgh, EH4 3DR Explore Modern Scottish Women this Easter with creative activities for all the family! Try your hand at using household items to create stunning photograms; work together to make a rug and become the model for a family masterpiece. You can also contribute to a collective poem, inspired by the exhibition. Free exhibition entry for participating families. 2 - 4pm 31 March nappuccino Pilrig St Paul's Church Pilrig Street, Edinburgh, EH6 5AH 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: Buy great value second hand nappies.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. 10.00 - 11.30am

Fabergé Family Fun The Palace of Holyroodhouse Join us for a special day of family fun on Saturday 26 March 2016

COME BACK FOR FREE!

Get your ticket stamped on your Faberge Egg Hunt Storytelling first visit and Make and take Faberge craft Family Audio Guide come back as Palace Family Room with games, activities & costumes many times as Face Painting Family Activity Trails and much more! you like at no For full details of events and dates visit extra cost! © Royal Collection Trust/ copyright Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth 2016. Photographer David Cheskins

www.royalcollection.org.uk/whatson 27 FAMILIES EDINBURGH ISSUE 95

Out&About APRIL 1 - 8 April Destination space: life in space Dynamic Earth, Holyrood Road, Edinburgh, EH8 8AS Do you have what it takes to become an Astronaut?

The journey into space can be hazardous and also has effects on the human body. Astronauts must train really hard to be able to make and survive the journey into Space.

Take our challenges and discover some of the gruesome but fascinating things that can happen to the human body in space. Included in Admission Price 1 April nappuccino Pregnancy and Parent Centre 10 Lower Gilmore Place, Edinburgh, EH3 9NY Come along to one of our Nappuccino coffee mornings, an informal, friendly ‘one stop’ event which will meet all of 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. You can also buy great value good quality second hand nappies. Any income generated is ploughed back into the Real Nappy Project to continue providing services such as the lending kits. 10 - 11.30am 2 April activity morning mania! - nerf wars!

Galleon Centre, George Watson’s College, EH10 5EG www.ActivityDelivered.com

10am- 1:30pm Need a bit of peace and quiet over the Easter Holidays? Well Activity Delivered have the answer! The event will last from 10am - 1:30pm. We welcome children aged 6-11 years old. All children will be split into age appropriate groups throughout the sessions. Places are limited so book now.

2 April scottish Dance theatre: innocence The Brunton, Ladywell Way, Musselburgh, EH21 6AA A unique playroom performance,Innocence invites little ones (and their adults), to explore William Blake’s imagination and enter a realm of mystery, fun and adventure. Innocence is a magical theatrical journey led by Scottish Dance Theatre’s captivating dancers, with live music, songs, giggles and animal noises by Paul Bradley. A beautiful and engaging dance experience for young ones, their families and friends.“Dazzling…an infectious sense of fun and excitement” - The TimesFor ages 3 – 7. 2pm / £12 (1 Child with 1 Adult), £5 Extra Child, £1 Babies In Arms

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

3 April art maker The Scottish National Gallery The Mound, Edinburgh, EH2 2EL Join the Art Maker Club and make your own masterpieces with artists Tessa Asquith-Lamb and Louise Fraser.

Supported by the Friends of the National Galleries of Scotland. For ages 4 - 12. 14.00 - 16.00 4 April ByoB - Bring your own Baby The Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art, 75 Belford Road, Edinburgh, EH4 3DR Join us for a fun, relaxed morning planned especially with parents and carers of young children in mind. Enjoy special offers and family-friendly facilities in the café and sign up for one of our short buggy/baby-friendly art tours for adults.

Gurgling, laughing, crying or screaming welcome as well as lots of informal chat. We’ll even bring some spare nappies!

Places for tours limited, sign-up on the day. 9.30am - 12pm 4 April Building Better homes for animals: a guide for humans Real Life Science Studio, John Hope Gateway Join us to discover the importance of mini-beasts! The health of the environment depends on lots of small critters that help to recycle energy and nutrients. Without them, our farms and wildlife would struggle. Join Scotland's Rural College to build your own mini-beast home and discover how important these overlooked animals really are. Ages 5+. 11:00 – 16:00 4 & 5 April Destination space: rockets Dynamic Earth, Holyrood Road, Edinburgh, EH8 8AS Just like British Astronaut Tim Peake, every astronaut needs a rocket to get them into space. These rockets must travel at incredible speeds and with phenomenal power simply to escape the surface of our plant. Explore rockets and the amazingly simple science that even the most high tech robots are based on in this fun, interactive workshop. Join us as we demonstrate Newton's Laws using a hovercraft, balloons and simple rockets and make your very own rocket to take home. Included in Admission Price 4 - 9 April teddy Bear hospital The National Museum of Scotland, Chambers Street, Edinburgh, EH1 1JF Free, limited spaces available. Meet our cuddly doctors and nurses to find out what makes Teddy's body work and how we used science to make us better. In anticipation of the National Museum of Scotland’s new Science and Technology galleries, we’re having a look behind the scenes at our very own Teddy Bear Hospital. Find out what makes Teddy’s body work, as well as your own, and discover how we use medical science to make us all better when things don’t go quite right. With fun stories and activities for the youngest doctors and nurses, you’re sure to feel great after visiting us! 10:30-11:10 & 11:30-12:10 4 - 10 April survival of the smartest!

Are you a fearless explorer? Could you survive in the wild? Visit our explorer’s camp and meet some of our intrepid scientists as you head on an adventure to discover some of the smartest plants in the world. Learn about some of the incredible ways plants adapt to survive and track down the plants that might just be able to help you survive in an emergency! Ages 4+.

11:00 – 16:00 (drop-in) Palm House.

5 - 6 April Back to the Future Food Real Life Science Studio, John Hope Gateway We’re going back to the future, without the rehydrated pizza.

Discover the science of tastier, more nutritious food with scientists from the Rowett Institute of Nutrition and Health.

Journey into the past to find out how vegetable ancestors could improve food today and peer into the future to see how technology could change the way we think about food.

Ages 5+. 11:00 – 16:00 (drop-in) .

5 & 6 April Double Dome nights Dynamic Earth, Holyrood Road, Edinburgh, EH8 8AS Sit back in a comfortable seat for a real full dome cinematic treat. Each night we'll be showing a combination of two 30 minute films including a chance to see From Earth to the Universe, the new planetarium experience from the European Southern Observatory. See website for more information. Included in Admission Price 5 April tiny tales The Scottish Storytelling Centre, 43 - 45 High Street, Edinburgh, EH1 1SR The Storytelling Centre’s monthly sessions are the perfect introduction for your toddlers to get interactive with tales. For ages 1 - 3yrs. 10am & 11.30am (40mins) / £5 per child 6 & 9 April the science of survival All living things need the same elements to survive – food, water and shelter. Different creatures go about getting these essential elements in some very different ways. Find out about the eating and sleeping habits of native Scottish wildlife and test out some wilderness survival skills for yourself in this interactive workshop led by RSPB Scotland.

Ages 5+. 11:00 –16:00 (drop-in) RBGE 7 April cells, microscopes & art Dynamic Earth, Holyrood Road, Edinburgh, EH8 8AS Come along to our drop-in microscope workshop to discover the amazing tiny world. You'll also find out how lasers and a billion years of marine evolution have helped to accelerate our understanding of tiny things. You can even join in using your phone and create some scectacular science-inspired 3D art and light projections. Included in Admission Price 7 & 8 April the worm - an underground adventure Real Life Science Studio, John Hope Gateway, RBGE. Underneath your feet in the muddy brown soil squirms the world’s best kept secret...a wonderful, magical creature called the worm. Join Wilma and William, two nature lovers, on a journey underground as they discover a family of friendly, musical worms and their colourful miniature world.

Then join Eco Drama after the performance, as they invite you to see some real worms in a specially designed wormery. Part of Puppet Animation Festival. Ages 3+. 11:00 and 14:00. £6 adult / £5 child

Out&About

h.co.uk/whats-on including any contact or further booking information.

10 April short and sweet: animations for Kids (u) Filmhouse, 88 Lothian Road, Edinburgh, EH3 9BZ www.filmhousecinema.com A selection of clever, colourful and beautifully animated short films that kids of all ages will love! Part of Filmhouse Junior - Filmhouse's regular series of Sunday morning films from around the world for family audiences. 11am / £4

15 April ecoKidz North Edinburgh Arts Centre 15a Pennywell Court, Edinburgh, EH4 4TZ www.northedinburgharts.co.uk Exciting craft project for children to design and make a range of original, mini artworks using recycled materials with the idea of retailing finished work. Age 8-12 yrs time 1.453.15pm 1.45 - 3.15pm

10 April Bug Busting trees Join scientists from the PROTREE project in an adventure to understand how we can help trees to fend off the bugs that would attack them. Get hands-on, meet the main offenders, and discover how trees are able to defend themselves if only we allow them to. Take the chance to help with the testing of a new computer game about tree health. Ages 5+. 11:00 – 16:00 (drop-in) Atrium, John Hope Gateway.

16 April the mrs mash show The Scottish Storytelling Centre, 43 - 45 High Street, Edinburgh, EH1 1SR

14 April Babies First The National Museum of Scotland, Chambers Street, Edinburgh, EH1 1JF Free. Book online limited spaces available, book online or sign up on the day at the Information Desk. A Magic Carpet session exclusively for first-time parents, grandparents and carers and their little one (up to 18 months). Enjoy some quality social time exploring the museum through songs, rhymes, actions and play. Supported by players of the Peoples Postcode Lottery. 11.30 - 11.55 8 & 9 April Bear Behaving Badly The King's Theatre, 2 Leven St, Edinburgh, EH3 9LQ www.edtheatres.com/bearbehavingbadly Get ready for chaos and calamity as the hilarious CBBC show Bear Behaving Badly takes to the stage in its first ever nationwide live tour. Come and laugh along with Nev, boogie with Beatrice and sing along with Blue Peter’s Barney Harwood in an adventure that’s full of mischief, laughter and mayhem. (Please note that Barney Harwood will feature in the show by pre-recorded video link and will not appear in person). 4.30pm (Fri) & 1.30pm (Sat) / See website for more information win! go to www.familiesedinburgh.co.uk/win for your chance to win a family ticket to see Bear Behaving Badly at the King’s theatre on april 9th.

9 April wee treasures The Scottish National Portrait Gallery, 1 Queen Street, Edinburgh, EH2 1JD Welcome to our brand new regular storytelling programme especially for early years children and their families.

Inspired by a different portrait each month, delve into our magic treasure chest to find out what the story will be. With fun rhymes and songs, puppet characters and lots of opportunities to join in, this is sure to become a firm favourite with little ones! Places limited, sign up on the day.

For ages 2 - 4. 10.30am & 11.30am / Free. Drop in.

10 April Portrait Detectives The Scottish National Portrait Gallery, 1 Queen Street, Edinburgh, EH2 1JD Collect your kit, follow clues and solve a mystery from history! Supported by the friends of the National Galleries of Scotland. For ages 4 - 12. 14.00 - 16.00

Join Mrs Mash the Storytelling Cook and Barry the Banana for stories, songs and food-themed fun that gets you in the mood for good food. Hear about the magic of soup and get moving with the Fitness Fruit Salad song! 2.30pm / £8 (£6) (£24 Family of 4)

© National Museums Scotland

14 April create North Edinburgh Arts Centre, 15a Pennywell Court, Edinburgh, EH4 4TZ www.northedinburgharts.co.uk Drop-in, artist led creative and messy art sessions for under 5’s and their parents/carers combined with inspiring storytelling and colourful montessori sessions. 10am – 12pm (Thursdays) 10.30am – 12.30pm (Saturdays) / 50p/ £3 14 - 16 April leaf by niggle The Studio at Festival Theatre, Festival Theatre, Potter Row, Edinburgh, EH8 9BL www.edtheatres.com/leaf Niggle is a painter. Not a very successful one, partly because he has so many other things to do. For some time he has been obsessed with one particular canvas - a curious picture of a tree with a vast landscape stretching out behind it. The painting keeps getting bigger and bigger, but Niggle has a journey to make. By JRR Tolkien. With music by Karine Polwart. Presented by Puppet State Theatre Company. See website for more information / See website for more information

16 April saturday arts North Edinburgh Arts Centre, 15a Pennywell Court, Edinburgh, EH4 4TZ www.northedinburgharts.co.uk Inspiring, colourful and fun recycled art and craft workshops for children to create something special to take home.age 5 - 7 years time 10.30 – 11.20am. Age 8 – 12 years time 11.40am – 12.30pm / cost 50p GN / £3 full, includes snack 17 April Bags of art The Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art, 75 Belford Road, Edinburgh, EH4 3DR Collect a bag of activities from the art station to help your family explore the collection and create your own artworks.

Led by artists Tessa Asquith-Lamb and Louise Fraser.

Supported by the Friends of the National Galleries of Scotland. Ages 4 - 12. 14.00 - 16.00 17 April goosebumps (Pg) Filmhouse, 88 Lothian Road, Edinburgh, EH3 9BZ www.filmhousecinema.com When the monsters and ghouls from Stine’s novels escape and begin terrorising the town, Zach, Hannah, Stine and Zach’s friend Champ must work together to send them back. Part of Filmhouse Junior - Filmhouse's regular series of Sunday morning films from around the world for family audiences. 11am / £4

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Out&About © Dan Mosley

23 April Beltane Family event The Scottish Storytelling Centre, 43 - 45 High Street, Edinburgh, EH1 1SR Ahead of TradFest Edinburgh and the Beltane Fire Festival, join the Beltane Fire Society for a fun-packed day of activities, including arts and crafts, storytelling, drama and face painting. Drop-in at any time, or view the Storytelling Centre website for further information. 1.30pm (3 hours) 23 April oxford Playhouse: Bed time The Brunton, Ladywell Way, Musselburgh, EH21 6AA 0131 665 2240 www.thebrunton.co.uk It's bed time, but it’s not quite time to go to sleep…

Celebrating the routines and loving nonsense of this very special time of day. With songs, storytelling, humour, lots of silliness and maybe, a pillow fight, put on your PJs and come join us just before it’s time to switch off the light and say goodnight. This show is specially created for very young audiences, reflects and celebrates the daily routines that bind us together. For ages 2 – 6. 11am & 2pm / £7.50, £28 Family Of 4 23 April mannafields christian school open Day 1-3pm. Mannafields Christian School, 170 Easter Road Edinburgh, EH7 5QE Free fun day with games, crafts, science experiments, free refreshments and information about the school.

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24 April howl’s moving castle (u) Filmhouse, 88 Lothian Road, Edinburgh, EH3 9BZ www.filmhousecinema.com In a land of witches, wizards and war, Sophie is a young milliner who has a spell cast upon her, turning her into an old lady. Part of Filmhouse Junior - Filmhouse's regular series of Sunday morning films from around the world for family audiences. 11am / £4 27 April - 21 May mary Poppins The Festival Theatre, 13/29 Nicolson St, Edinburgh, EH8 9FT www.edtheatres.com/marypoppins Disney and Cameron Mackintosh present the multi awardwinning musical Mary Poppins. The magical story of the world’s favourite Nanny has been triumphantly and spectacularly brought to the stage with dazzling choreography, incredible effects and unforgettable songs.

The stage production of Mary Poppins is brilliantly adapted from the wonderful stories by PL Travers and the beloved Walt Disney film. It is co-created by Cameron Mackintosh and has a book by Oscar-winning screenwriter and Downton Abbey creator, Julian Fellowes. With a timeless score by Richard M Sherman and Robert B Sherman including the songs Jolly Holiday, Step in Time, Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious and Feed the Birds with new songs and additional music and lyrics by the Olivier award-winning British team of George Stiles and Anthony Drewe. See website for more information on times and prices.

28 April nappuccino Pilrig St Paul's Church, Pilrig Street, Edinburgh, EH6 5AH 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: Buy great value second hand nappies.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. 10.00 - 11.30am

30 April Patterns and vibrations The Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art, 75 Belford Road, Edinburgh, EH4 3DR Join artists Kate Temple and Fraser Gray in exploring the world of Bridget Riley with practical activities and visual illusions aplenty. 2 - 4pm 30 April & 1 May rsPB scotland loch leven Family Fun weekend RSPB Scotland Loch Leven Centre, Loch Leven Reserve, Kinross, rspb.org.uk/lochleven

10am - 4pm Drop into the reserve this weekend for an action packed nature discovery adventure. Take the wildlife challenge, join in with hands on activities, experiment with the art of den building, discover what lies beneath the pond's surface and enter our grand designs bird feeder competition.

Price: Standard entry charges apply (FREE for members), plus £5 per child for all activities.

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