Families Edinburgh July/August 2016

Free ISSUE 97 July/August 2016 ÂŽ

Fringe For Kids Summer Camps 50 Things To Do This Summer

www.next.co.uk

What's On

www.familiesonline.co.uk

Email - editor@familiesedinburgh.co.uk

Tel. 0131 622 0405

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Welcome to the jam packed bumper summer issue of Families Edinburgh!

news and

views

What’s inside...

Stick on Clothing Labels – The quick & easy way to label your children’s clothing

3–5 6 – 15 16 – 28

Get ready early for back to school this year with name labels for clothing, ties and uniforms. Stick on labels is the easy way to label clothing - no ironing or sewing necessary! Just stick the adhesive name label onto the care label of what you want to label and you’re finished.

High-quality labels made to order in the UK. Developed especially for clothes and with strong adhesion to last many washes. Many other alternative name labels also available and personalised gifts including major brands like Disney, Mattel and Nickelodeon.

Labels4Kids is an award winning family business that has been selling name labels online since 2004. Since 2014, Labels4Kids also supplies John Lewis with school name labels. Order early, beat the rush and get some peace of mind this summer.

Labels4Kids – because kids lose stuff. www.labels4kids.com/fam

News and Views 50 Things to do this Summer Fringe For Kids 2016 will see 50,266 performances of 3,269 shows from 48 countries in 294 venues across Edinburgh!

29 – 33

Summer Camps and Activities Dance, Farm, Act, Swim, Create, Bug-hunt, Climb....

34 – 39

Out and About

Get in Touch editor@familiesedinburgh.co.uk @FamiliesEdinbur www.Facebook.co.uk/FamiliesEdinburgh www.familiesonline.co.uk or call us on 0131 622 0405 Families Edinburgh is designed by Kenny Dickson

On the Cover Pink Striped Pinafore (3mths-6yrs), £12- £13 From Next www.next.co.uk

A natural cough remedy!

If your child is suffering from a persistent cough, salt therapy can provide effective relief. A natural remedy that is not only safe but also drug-free.

Have you ever thought about exactly why we cough? Coughing is a reflexive action like sneezing. We sneeze when something such as dust, germs, animal dander, pollen, or other irritants tickle or aggravate the lining of our nose. We cough for the same reason.

Coughing is a reflexive action to clear your respiratory airways of germs, mucus, or other foreign particles.

Lingering coughs are caused by inflamed bronchial tubes (tubes in the lungs) and excess mucus. By inhaling sterile, pure, dry salt-enriched air into the upper airways and bronchi, the antiseptic properties of salt is able to kill bacteria, remove airborne pathogens, reduce inflammation and loosen mucus so that it is easier to remove.

Salt Therapy works to relieve coughing in a 100% natural way.

This leads to improved sleep patterns and the need for medication will substantially decrease. Giving your child more energy to play or exercise and become stronger and more resilient to everyday infections.

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

Training for Women

Next Issue: Back to School September/October 2016 School News • Open Days • Clubs and Classes • What’s On Booking deadline - July 15th 2016 Call 0131 622 0405 editor@familiesedinburgh.co.uk Join Our Team Our wonderful team of distributors help get Families Edinburgh out every two months.

We need someone to join us to help with the route covering South and South West Edinburgh.

Must be friendly and a car owner. email editor@familiesedinburgh.co.uk if you are interested we’d love to hear from you!

The PCT Partnership, an Edinburgh based training company, offers training designed for women; specifically, those looking to return to work and those wanting to develop and advance their careers.

Women Returning to Work (WRW) is an established programme that has helped many hundreds of women move back into employment. Most women returning to work after a career break feel they lack confidence, are unsure of their skills, consider their IT skills are rusty and all are nervous about applying and presenting themselves to potential employers.

Our courses are designed to deal directly with these issues. We help you recognise your knowledge, skills and experience and prepare you for a successful transition from home to work. If you live in Edinburgh, you may also be eligible for funding for this programme from Skills Development Scotland.

We also support women in employment looking to develop their career. We can guide and help by reviewing and targeting your CV and supporting statements to match the vacancies and provide support in preparing for the selection process by carrying out tailored practice interviews.

For more information visit www.thepctpartnership.co.uk or call directly on 0131 622 6240.

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news and

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When is cheap not a bargain?

Have you ever bought a pair of kids school shoes, and within a few weeks they’re worn out or even smelly?

This is probably because the materials used to make the shoe aren’t what they seem. They look good on the outside, but lurking underneath is a synthetic upper. These shoes are not designed for stability or longevity and certainly not designed to let kids feet breathe, leading all too often to that unwanted whiff from really sweaty little toes.

When it comes to kids’ feet, we believe in the ‘buy cheap, pay twice’ motto. A fashion shoe may look like a bargain but in the longer term will it really stand up to the every day rigors of kids at school? Our feet have got to last us a lifetime so it really is worth investing in them from the start to save health issues later on in life. Look out for the leather symbol to ensure you’re getting the real deal, and make sure the shoes fit correctly.

Maddie & Mark’s Shoes in Edinburgh recommend a fitting every six weeks and they also have a great selection of reasonably priced leather school shoes from brands such as Startrite - stylish and made to last.

Why not pop in and have a look today?

Taste ‘n’ Tell The unique Children’s Food Education Experience

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

The PCT Partnership’s highly successful course for Women Returning to Work gives you tuition and 1-1 feedback on writing your CV, completing application forms and preparing for job interviews, as well as making sure your IT skills are up to date. The 4 week part time course will also re-introduce you to today's working environment and give you guidance and support in finding a job.

Our courses are funded by Skills Development Scotland and are free if you live in Edinburgh and have been away from work for 13 weeks or more. We are currently recruiting for our next course due to start in September 2016.

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

A series of 10 interactive books, dedicated to ‘making kids’ food fun’.

Our books include rhyming couplets describing the adventures of a variety of characters, collectively known as the Taste ‘n’ Tell Crew! The first series designed and written for pre-school and early school age groups, see the Crew embark on a journey to discover their favourite foods. Young readers can explore food in a multisensorial way, promoting healthy eating, introducing the enjoyment of reading and expanding their knowledge of food.

Holly honeybee is featured on our website and her healthy food discovery is fruit. Our other characters also represent the key nutritious food groups. Veggie vole (vegetables), Millar mouse (grains), Beefy bear (protein) and Darcey dragon (dairy). There is also a story book series for early readers based around food themes, commencing with the ‘Fox and the King’.

Beat the Back to School rush with Snappy Tags As the summer holidays stretch out in front of us, it always seems like there’s plenty of time to sort out labelling school uniform before term starts.

And what happens? We end up staying up the whole night before, labelling endless pieces of uniform, shoes, underwear, book bags, sports kit and lunch boxes.

So now is the time to consider Snappy Tags which is a fantastically simple way to securely label school uniforms, games kit and other items of clothing.

A Snappy Tag is similar to a small button. Your child’s name is etched onto the tags before they are delivered to you, and names are guaranteed not to fade or wash off. The process of putting a tag into the applicator is so simple, my children argue to be the ones to Snappy Tag their uniforms! Simply use the applicator to apply the tags, one by one onto the items, and that whole naming of school uniforms takes less than 10 minutes! There is NO sewing or ironing involved and plenty of time left to go out and have fun with the children!

Snappy Tags also sells underwear labels and adhesive stickers, ideal for lunch boxes and water bottles. So from swimming goggles, to school ties, Snappy Tags have the solution for all your clothes labelling needs. Simple!

This year Snappy Tags are introducing a Snappy Tags Family Kit which contains a Snappy Applicator, 2 packs of 50 tags and a spare packet of 25 replacement backs – all for the bargain price of £38.50 plus postage.

So, order now and then the back to school rush will be a distant memory.

To view the full Snappy TagTM range, visit www.snappytags.co.uk

Tumble Tots Tumble Tots are running Summer Classes for children from 6 months to 5 years on 4 of the 6 Tuesdays during the summer holidays in the morning at Cluny Centre, Morningside from Tuesday 12th July.

Please call Jo on 01875 819966 for more information and to book your child a place for email Jo on joletelier.lobos@virgin.net

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Monkey Music Monkey Music – Edinburgh’s award winning music fun for preschool children.

Now is the time to come and book a free trial class at Monkey Music with the Autumn term starting on Monday 22nd August.

Each of our classes is tailored to the children attending, so that everyone can get the maximum out of each 30 minute session. Each child is nurtured and encouraged to learn at their own pace in a safe, caring, educational environment. The 4 stage progressive curricula challenges, encourages and allows creative flow as the children learn through live music, play, games, laughter, music and live singing. We work with over 15 different percussion instruments each term all age specific. 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.

While training in Make up and special effects Bex discovered her love for face painting.

She has turned this love into her own company, Pure Brilliant Events.

They offer Face painting, balloon modeling, glitter tattoos, sweet treats and balloon displays for all types of parties and events. “Loved by kids and adults, you are set to have pure brilliant fun with Pure Brilliant Events”.

Have a look at some of their wonderful creations at www.purebrilliantevents.co.uk

MandM Direct is now the UK’s biggest online, off-price retailers We offer big brands at low prices with up to 75% off fashion, sport and outdoor wear for men, women and kids. Choose from over 250 of the world’s favourite brands including Converse, adidas, Levi’s, French Connection and many more.

We have new stock every day, and once we lower the price of a product it will never go back up! So whether you’re looking to kit the kids out or treat yourself, we’ve got it covered. Get the whole family kitted out this summer at mandmdirect.com and bag yourself a bargain today.

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Picture Courtesy Helen Patience (rspb-images.com)

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Things to do during the school holidays

This list spirals off to be so many more things than 50, in fact it’s probably 50 things to do that lead to 50 more things to do….For the sake of argument let’s just say that there is a LOT to do this summer!

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Grab your diary / Calendar / orGaniser There’s lots going on and you don’t want to miss anything!

summer Camps and aCtivities

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Book your kids onto a summer camp they can learn a new skill, make new friends and have heaps of fun. Go to page 29 and take your pick.

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take a trip on the Forth Ferry

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If you haven’t been on this yet then the school holidays are the ideal time for a trip on the Forth Ferry - a passenger service between North Berwick and Anstruther.

Each crossing takes approximately 45 minutes on board the 55-seat Catamaran, and allows visitors to enjoy days out in either location.

Day return tickets: adult £25, child £15 (age 4 to 16), concession £20 (age 60+). Children age 3 and under go free.

10% discount for members of the Seabird Centre.

The Forth Ferry Excursion is the latest addition to a wide variety of popular boat trips offered by Seafari Adventures and the Seabird Centre. Full details and bookings for all boat trips: www.seabird.org.

FrinGe For kids

I say this every year but we are so amazingly lucky to have this on our doorstep. Theatre, Puppetry, Circus, Comedy, Storytelling and general silliness for the whole family!

See our feature starting on page 16 for all the best shows to take your kids to this Fringe!

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Find the GlinGblobs and tootFlits!

We’ve been told there are mythical creatures hiding in the trees at Pressmennan Wood! Can you find the Glingbobs and Tootflits?

Look out for their homes and meeting places hidden in the trees as you take the circular walk around the woods.

You can download the map from http://www.visiteastlothian.org/assets/pressmennan-leaflet.pdf

Scooters For All Ages Free Bell with every Scooter for Families Edinburgh Readers Just mention "Families Magazine" www.GulliversToys.co.uk Tel: 0131 629 9424 info@GulliversToys.co.uk 165b Bruntsfield Place, Edinburgh EH10 4DG.

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50 imaGine better

A leading showcase for children’s writers and illustrators, the Edinburgh International Book Festival (13 - 29 August) will once again create a magical, family-friendly village of tents and walkways, theatres, cafés and bookshops in the heart of Edinburgh City Centre, where everyone from tiny tots to older teens can enjoy the wonderful Festival atmosphere with an ice cream or a slice of cake.

The Book Festival will play host to a huge array of fun and inventive activities, including workshops, storytelling, author events, book signings, and lively discussions bringing together top authors to chat about the topics that matter to young people.

Offering opportunities to get creative and meet world class authors, from well-known faces to vibrant new voices, this year’s Book Festival line-up includes Malorie Blackman who will be introducing her new breathtaking intergalactic love story, inspired by Shakespeare’s Othello; Julia Donaldson and friends with singing, dancing and rhyming fun for little ones; and Andy Stanton celebrating a decade of Mr Gum’s hilarious escapades. Chris Packham, Jacqueline Wilson, Liz Pichon, Robert Muchamore and Francesca Simon will join them in the programme, along with a host of authors from across the globe.

Bringing a very special performance of his book, The Mozart Question, will be Michael Morpurgo, joined by actress Alison Reid, violinist Daniel Pioro and string quartet The Storyteller’s Ensemble. Interweaving words and music, they will bring to life the haunting tale of survival against the odds, set against the background of the Holocaust.

Illustrator in Residence Alex T Smith will be imagining stories visually as he leads a series of exciting events exploring the world of illustrated books, with writers and illustrators including the much-loved Judith Kerr.

Plus, Children’s Laureate Chris Riddell will be sharing his distinctive drawings and clever caricatures, and the Phoenix comic will be leading interactive events, providing inspiration and top tips for creating comic book adventures.

With over 200 events, there will be something to exercise every young person’s imagination – from picture books to performance, fantasy fiction to tales of finding yourself.

Tickets are available from Tuesday 21 June - you can book online at www.edbookfest.co.uk or by phone 0845 373 5888. Tickets are £5 for most children’s events, and there are a number of daily free events.

Things to do during the school holidays

nibble and dribble

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Head for the vegetable patch this summer, and experience the joys of planting and seeding, watering and weeding down in the kitchen garden. Discover the secrets of the super-fresh fruit and vegetables that are grown to supply our tearoom, and join in with the fun of tending the crops.

All of the family will enjoy the Dibbler and Nibbler sessions that take place at Almond Valley every day throughout the school holidays. Based in the discovery tent beside the polytunnel, the informal drop-in workshops combine some simple gardening tasks with a range of food and farmrelated crafts, trails and games suitable for children of all ages. Sessions take place between 1.30 and 2.30 each day, and there’s no need to book in advance.

Daily from Saturday 25th June until Monday 22nd August Almond Valley Heritage Centre, Millfield, Livingston, EH54 7AR

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Carnival!

As part of this year’s Edinburgh Jazz Festival you can see giant puppets, exotic sounds, bright costumes and street performances in the Edinburgh Festival Carnival on Sunday 17th July.

2.30pm – Parade from The Mound to the West End of Princess Street 2.30-5pm – Performances in Princess Street, Princess Street Gardens, Grassmarket. Music, dance, costumes, circus acrobats, puppetry from all over the world! www.edinburghjazzfestival.com

CheCk out our new website!

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Look out for the launch of the fantastic new Families website in early July.

You can look forward to seeing the best of the current site, including places to go and what’s on events and activities, education, childcare, classes and clubs and parties, as well as some great new features, including eating out and local services.

The site will be more comprehensive than ever and easier to use, offering inspirational ideas for things to do with the kids locally and helpful parenting tips and advice to support you and your family.

Have a look - www.familiesonline.co.uk

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Things to do during the school holidays

have a Cinema experienCe in a tipi

Just in time for summer Activity Delivered are so excited to share their brand new Tipi Cinema!

Rain or shine, the tipi is perfect to celebrate your birthday with your friends.

Delivered straight into your back garden and big enough to sit 14 people, the 70” screen and beautiful Wharfedale surround sound system will make any movie feel like you are there. And with loads of cushions and blankets, there is plenty to hide behind at the scary bits!

Have it for the afternoon or all night for an amazing sleepover!

Let them know what you’d like and they’ll work out the best option for you Loads more to offer so check out the website for more details. www.ActivityDelivered.com Activity Delivered are offering one lucky Families reader the chance to WIN a movie showing of your choice in the Tipi Cinema for you and up to 13 people.

Enter by emailing your name and address to win@familiesedinburgh.co.uk with the subject heading TIPI. Closing date July 31st 2016 Terms and Conditions: Prize must be used by 31/12/16.

The venue must be in a back garden and have access to power.

14 is the number recommended for a comfortable viewing - If you would like more than feel free but space is limited! You are asked to provide the film, we simply hire you the equipment. Blue Ray is recommended.

Please be aware that due to demand, some dates are already booked.

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take a tour oF bt murrayField

The home of Scottish rugby and Scotland’s largest national stadium is open for tours throughout the summer holidays, with a new and improved experience that’s suitable for the whole family. Highlights include the Scotland changing room and a virtual team talk from former captain Al Kellock, as well as visits to the TV studio, Bill McLaren Press Gallery and pitchside area.

Under-5s go free. Book online at www.scottishrugby.org/tours

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tell a Joke

Here is one of my personal favourites*: Q: What is red and invisible A: No tomatoes! (*Do send me your jokes - clearly I am in need of a better one!)

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ride on a ChairliFt

Skiing, Snowboarding and Tubing are all available at Midlothian Snowsports Centre, Hillend this summer.

Escape the city and visit the stunning hillside of the Pentlands Hills Regional Park.

Our 5 day junior ski and snowboard camps and kinder ski camps are running weekly from 11th July – 12th August ... there’s no need to worry about equipment as we supply it all, even down to poles and helmets. For an exhilarating ride down the hill, slide down our purpose built tubing runs in an inflatable doughnut ring, fun for all the family.

A ride on our chairlift is a great way to enjoy the panoramic views across Edinburgh and the Firth of Forth. You must disembark at the top, but you can hop straight back on or take a walk and enjoy the views. Please call us on 0131 4454433 to check the chairlift running times.

Enjoy the summer and enjoy the outdoors at the Midlothian Snowsports Centre, Hillend.

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take part in the biG Friendly read

Edinburgh libraries are gearing up for The Big Friendly Read to inspire young readers to explore some of the many marvellous books penned by Roald Dahl as part of the Tesco Bank Summer Reading Challenge Scotland.

The annual Tesco Bank Summer Reading Challenge Scotland, run in partnership with Scottish libraries and The Reading Agency, encourages children (aged between 4 and 11) to read six or more library books of their choice during the summer holidays with collectable incentives and rewards, plus a certificate, or medal for every child who completes the Challenge. Children can sign up at their local library at the start of the summer holidays; it’s absolutely free - and pre-schoolers can take part in the mini-Challenge. There will also be events taking place at libraries throughout the summer months.

For more information ask in your local library or visit www.readingagency.org.uk

Go in searCh oF stranGe lands and peCuliar plaCes

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Monday 18 July to Sunday 14 August from 24.30pm.

Don’t dilly Dalí; find your way to our studio this summer at the National Gallery. Inspired by two exhibitions Inspiring Impressionism and Surreal Encounters | Collecting the Marvellous come along and try your hand at activities for all the family. Play Exquisite Landscape and watch fantastic landscapes appear before your eyes, try drawing en plein air, learn the surrealist technique of automatic drawing and add to an everchanging 3D landscape. For ages 2 - 12.

Scottish National Gallery, The Mound (Free. Drop in)

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©Spudd Connor

book an eye test

The holidays is the perfect time to have your children's eyes tested.

Children are often unaware of their visual problems as they have nothing to compare too. A child that is longsighted may think their vision is normal and as children rarely cover one eye at a time, they are often blissfully unaware if one eye is not seeing properly. Longsightedness, a lazy eye or a squint can all be helped as long as it is discovered by an Optician well before the age of 8.

After 8 it is too late for successful intervention. It is believed that 1 in 5 children in the UK are short sighted/ myopic and it is most likely to occur between the ages of 6 and 13, again children aren't always aware of what is 'normal' vision and could easily be missing things on the board at school/nursery hindering their educational development.

Eyes tests for children should be as normal as going to the dentist, from the age of around 21⁄2, or earlier if there any concerns.

Children's eye examinations are always fun filled with an assortment of game like tasks to assess all aspects of their visual function.

Downes Opticians are an ethical, family practice with years of experience in paediatric optometry who also specialise in children's visual stress and vision in learning difficulties. They also provide 2 for 1 on children's spectacles.

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

Age specific football training for children at walking age - 12 years Birthday Parties available for ages 3 + For more info contact:

07544 221045

Email: b.robertson@soccerstarts.co.uk

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Celebrate the Queen’s birthday this summer at the palaCe!

Tuesday 12 July – Friday 2 September Explore Holyroodhouse with a range of activity trails, visit our new Family Pavilion in the Palace Gardens and help us celebrate Her Majesty The Queen's 90th Birthday with special activities and our Royal Explorer backpack.

The Weird and the Wonderful: Every Tuesdays at 11:00 and 15:00 Find out about some of the stranger objects from the Royal Collection that decorate The Queen's official homes - Holyroodhouse, Buckingham Palace and Windsor Castle Family Garden Party Tours: Every Thursday at 11:00, 12:00 and 14:00 The Queen invites 8,000 people to her annual garden party.

Find out how the gardeners get ready, learn about the people who guard Her Majesty, hunt for hidden corgis, dress up and discover what fabulous food is served on the day 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!

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Go For a biG wild sleepout at loCh leven

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Free FrinGe Fun

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make sunday a Funday!

Things to do during the school holidays

Sat 30 – Sun 31 July, set up from 10am on Sat A night camping under the stars! Connect with nature as the nocturnal wildlife comes to life on the reserve.

Join in with bat and moth walks, enjoy wildlife and bushcraft activities and toast marshmallows on the fire. Facilities: toilets, wash basins, hot water, ©Helen Patience (rspb-ima ges.com) barbeque.

Booking essential, limited pitches available. Adults £40, Children £20, family £120 (2 adults and up to 3 children), RSPB member adult £34, Wildlife Explorer member £16, RSPB member family £100.

Throughout the Summer you can discover the wildlife of Loch Leven by taking part in their weekly self-led challenges.

Collect an activity sheet and kit from the visitor centre and spend time on the nature reserve exploring, crafting and learning. There are six challenges - one each week.

No booking required, just drop in. £3 per child or £1 RSPB members.

Loch Leven, Loch Leven Centre, Vane Farm Reserve, Kinross KY13 9LX

The BBC hub is in a new location this year in the beautiful grounds of George Heriot’s School this year for the Fringe from August 5th. Enjoy a host of family friendly activities and facilities. Plus keep your eyes open for some famous CBBC faces!

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paint stones or pebbles

It’s a really nice way to spend time together plus they make a lovely memory.

I varnished the stones once the kids finished painting them when we did this many summers ago. My little family of lopsided ladybird stones sit on my desk smiling at me at all times.

Sunday Funday sessions at The Yard run every Sunday during the school holidays.

It’s the one day of the week when they open their doors to the public and children get to charge around outside or play indoors and get messy in the art room. It’s a great way for all the family to have fun, get fresh air and support a great cause.

The Yard is based in Canonmills in Edinburgh and runs clubs, school sessions, training and open sessions for families with children and young people with disabilities. Sunday Funday sessions are open to the public and two hour sessions cost just £5. www.theyardscotland.org.uk

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Things to do during the school holidays

ride a bike

Take a cycle on one of Edinburgh’s may cycle paths. Go to www.edinburgh.gov.uk/bybikeonfoot to find more information and routes.

If your child can’t ride a bike yet then you could try to teach your kids to ride a bike in 7 easy steps!

• Begin with a balance bike Balance bikes are great because they have no pedals or stabilisers and are much lighter.

• Start on flat ground Always begin to teach your child on flat ground – so at a local park or area with no traffic.

• Teach them to use the brake At the age of two and a half to three, children are able to operate a hand brake, as long as it’s gentle enough for their fingers.

• Always wear a helmet Wearing a helmet is a must. The sooner your little one gets used to it, the better.

• Look for safety add-ons A steering limiter is highly recommended as this will enable your child to keep in the right direction and prevent falls.

• Get an adjustable seat Try to choose a bike that has an adjustable seat as this means the bike can be adjusted to suit their height.

• Upgrade to a bigger bike When your child has developed enough skill and confidence you can transfer them to a pedal bike without stabilisers.

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explore the Gardens at lauriston Castle

A great programme of family events and a nice day out to boot.

Set among 30 acres of woodland and beautiful gardens, Lauriston Castle is a special place to visit. The charming old glasshouse, set into the woodland, is a perfectly magical place to enjoy our programme of garden events, art activities and craft workshops. As the weather turns colder, we move indoors into the old Castle kitchen where you will get a cosy welcome and lots of creative inspiration.

The Castle itself has a beautiful Edwardian interior, from which we take inspiration for many of our workshops.

Downstairs are the servants’ quarters, including the maids’ hall and the atmospheric old kitchen.

Why not double up a day visiting the Castle grounds with a picnic, and historic Cramond is right on our doorstep...

Free car parking is available within the Castle grounds off Cramond Road South. Lauriston Castle is easy to reach and is close by car from the City Bypass. It sits between Davidson’s Mains and Cramond. You can take numerous buses to Davidson’s Mains, or Silverknowes Terminus; both are around 10 minutes walk from Lauriston Castle. See www.lothianbuses.com for details of local services.

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bounCe, Flip, bunny hop and Grab some air!

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Confused? Don't be! These are just some of the awesome activities to be enjoyed at Ozone Action Sports Centre, home to the world class facilities of Ryze Edinburgh “The Ultimate Trampoline Park” and Transgression Park’s World Class Skatepark all within minutes of Edinburgh.

Guaranteed fun for ALL ages – whether a two year old or a teen (and grownups too!!!).

Experience the adrenaline-fuelled thrill of bouncing on over 50 linked trampolines, jump from “The Tower” or flip into the foam pits at Ryze. Head to Transgression Park and experience the excitement of rolling down a ramp and feeling your wheels leave the deck to soar over the jump boxes.

Not only fun but very good for you too. A trampoline or skatepark session is a fantastic cardiovascular work out - aiding muscle growth, improving strength, balance, agility and peripheral awareness.

The whole family can do everything at their own pace. With no peer pressure it can help build confidence and achieve new goals. Did we also mention that it’s fun, fun, fun!

Once you’ve depleted your energy and burnt those calories you can refuel at the onsite Sky High Café, offering snacks, meals, refreshing chilled drinks or coffee and homemade cakes.

Ozone Action Sports Centre, Unit 23, Mayfield Industrial Estate, Dalkeith, Midlothian EH22 4AD http://www.ozoneactionsports.com

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Get in the kid Zone

Since its creation in 2009, Pleasance Kids has grown from strength to strength, and six years on remains the only venue in Edinburgh to offer a completely dedicated child-friendly area at The Kidzone on the Green, featuring a giant inflatable Igloo Theatre, weather-proof Art Pods, child-friendly food and pram shelter with nappy change.

This year, it's all about getting stuckin and taking part. Aardman’s animator Jim Parkyn comes to The Kidzone with a series of model-making workshops for children and adults alike creating mini masterpieces to feed into The Amazing Scene Machine. To celebrate Aardman’s 40th birthday families can learn how to make some of Aardman's stars including Morph, Shaun Sheep and Wallace and Gromit with The Amazing Scene Machine Does Aardinburgh! workshops.

In the new workshop tent, children can make beautiful kites, grizzly monsters and learn how to properly paint their own faces with top make up artist Lynn Fraser from Fantoosh and, if that's not enough, there are drama workshops in Pleasance Forth - Snail and I take a Journey - for under 10s run by Edinburgh-based The Acting Scene.

To browse full Kidzone programme visit www.pleasance.co.uk

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take in ten new Galleries

On July 8th you can celebrate the unveiling of ten new galleries at the National Museum of Scotland, and be amongst the first to enjoy your transformed museum. From the oldest aircraft in Britain and ceramic works by Picasso, to a 3D print of a human brain and a metal dress by Paco Rabanne, the new galleries will showcase excellence and innovation in decorative art, design, fashion, science and technology. Drop in between 10am and 5pm Chambers Street, Edinburgh

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learn to say “hello” and “Goodbye” in a diFFerent lanGuaGe.

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spend some time in a sCulpture Garden

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keep savinG GorGie City Farm

be an art explorer

To find out what’s on for families at this year’s festival, pick up an Edinburgh Art Festival Explorers map from participating galleries.

Explorers Libraries Explorers will run a summer school of arts workshops for all ages inspired by their commissions theme of Monuments in Edinburgh Libraries across the city every Wednesday in the summer holidays.

Enjoy a family day out at Museum of the year 2016 Nominee: Jupiter Artland.

Featuring 80 acres of contemporary sculpture garden, Jupiter Artland is just 25 minutes drive from Edinburgh and readily accessible by bus.

Amongst picturesque countryside, our ornate front gates welcome you into a day of adventure, discovery and enlightenment.

Collect a map and explore artwork by internationally renowned artists. Climb Charles Jenck’s Life Mounds and explore Anya Gallaccio’s amethyst covered grotto. Maybe you’ll bump into Percy the peacock or a donkey or two along the way!

After your outdoor adventure, visit the galleries or Children’s Art Hut for free activities.

At the delicious Milk Café there is something for the whole family to enjoy. Once revitalized, why not visit the Jupiter Shop to browse artist editions, gifts, art kits, and books?

Family (2 adult, 2 children): £23.50 Family Membership: £50 Kids go Free Weekend (all under 16s) on 21 - 24 July All under 16s will gain FREE entry to Jupiter Artland and there will be arts and crafts activities running throughout the day on Sat and Sun, from the Jupiter ArtHUT.

Project Dazzle This year the Explorers programme moves down to Leith to celebrate the Dazzle Ship commission. Project Dazzle invites your mini artists to become dazzle designers at the special Dazzle hub located within Ocean Terminal.

Drop in arts activities will be available Friday to Sunday and every Thursday there will be dazzle workshops for families and under 5s in the morning and ages 5-12 in the afternoon.

Art Early A specially programmed Art Early for families and children of all ages. A family-fun arts event - a morning of activities at each venue, culminating in a summer picnic.

For times and further details visit edinburghartfestival.com

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Things to do during the school holidays

Gorgie City Farm has been a much-loved part of the local community in Edinburgh for the past 30 years.

You’ll probably have seen the vast amount of fund raising that’s been going on recently to help them to reach the £100,000 they needed to save the Farm.

Now that the target has been reached they’ll still need to keep fundraising for the continued survival of the farm. If you can donate when you visit please do - if everyone who visited, and who could afford to, donated a £1 it would make such a difference.

This summer the Farm will have something for everyone.

Aurora, their cow is due her first calf, there are gorgeous pygmy goat kids and flourishing gardens. Farmer’s Helpers is a holiday club offered every weekday for 8-12 year olds 10am to 12.30, £10 per session (booking essential). And not forgetting the play park particularly suitable for pre-schools looking to burn off some energy!

51 Gorgie Road, Edinburgh, EH11 2LA

smile

Summer and sunshine always make me smile!

The summer holidays are a great time to visit your dentist or hygienist as it will be more convenient - no need for late night appointments or rushing straight from school. Think of the achievement after crossing this task off your to do list, and then you can relax knowing you and your families smiles are healthy and ready to shine.

Love your teeth, visit the team at Morningside Drive Dental Care this summer. *all new registered children will receive a free toothbrush.

maGiC Festival

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This summer lose yourself in magic with a secret magic workshops, shows that will rock your socks off and hilarious comedy conjuring at the 7th Edinburgh International Magic Festival.

The Festival opens with a brand new event MagicFair on the 1st July at Summerhall where you jump into a carnival of live shows, magic and circus shops, a ribbon maze – plan your own adventure and chose from up to 10 different events. Under 6s go free to the morning session.

Later in the week attend the most mysterious school in the world - Magic School - and be taught by the magician who made JK Rowling disappear! (and then reappear again) The festival will come to a close with the spectacular MagicFest Gala on 8th July at Edinburgh’s iconic Festival Theatre. Enjoy a selection of the most mind-blowing illusionists and adventurous variety acts. An extra matinee performance of the Gala Show has been added this year due to popular demand.

With more magicians than ever before, lose yourself in magic at the Edinburgh International Magic Festival from the 1st-8th July 2016

Skiing rding Snowboa Tubing ard camps running bo ow sn d an i sk er m 5 day sum ly – 12th August 2016 weekly from 11th Ju lidays y during the school hod over da y er ev en op ns ru Tubing 4 years an All tubers must be

ll and at least 1 metre ta

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

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Things to do during the school holidays

visit a diFFerent park

We asked local parents what their favourite parks were. If you haven’t already been try one of their suggestions!

It has to be Inverleith with the play park, the ducks, the views, loads of room to kick footballs and the abundance of doggies, it provides endless entertainment.” Clare The Meadows. I head there at least twice a week come rain, hail or shine. I’ve done too many loops of them to count but, for me, it never gets old. I head straight down Middle Meadow Walk, grab a takeaway hot chocolate, and then aim for whatever play park has a free seat on the swings. Jessica Spylaw Park in Colinton is a great place to go with the children and our dog. It has the Water of Leith running through it - perfect for a little paddle! It also has a good swing park. Once a year there is an 'Art in the Park' festival with stalls, music, a dog show and great kids activities.

Judith 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. Emma Beecraigs in West Lothian – imaginative play and a great location. Cate Harrison Park. Not only has it got the canal path where we feed the ducks and ride our bikes and scooters, but the play park is great for all ages and it's always full of friendly faces. There's lots of space for a family football match as well as being host to various great events from community kite making to bulb planting. Caroline We use the park at Leith Links a lot - it has great equipment for younger children and Kit loves negotiating his way onto the slide there. We also visit Inverleith park a lot and Victoria park. Although Victoria can be difficult if you have an older child and a younger child as the two play areas are completely separate. Tina My little boy and I love the pony park in Cramond. It is absolutely gorgeous with the little Shetland ponies in their field overlooking the park – and Angus loves pointing them out as he runs round or plays on the swings! Zoe Saughton Park is a great park as it has the added bonuses of the sand pit, skate park and the large grassy areas too. Everyone, no matter how young or old can be occupied there or many an hour. Gillian For us it has to be Vogrie Country Park, we spend many a Sunday afternoon there, the kids love it and it tires them out … and us!

We are within walking distance of Faimilehead Park which is also good. Debbie Having a young dog means we walk her a lot and it is always great to combine favourite spots with a play park as well. Cammo Estate in Barnton is a wonderful place to go, as well as The Meadows, Inverleith Park and for amazing woodland walks we love Corstorphine Hill.

Rachel

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sample plant based eatinG

Did you know that last year Edinburgh was voted the UK’s most Vegan friendly city in the UK last year?

Vegan eating is on the rise in Scotland, which is good news since, along with preventing animal suffering, vegans are less likely to suffer from heart disease, strokes, diabetes, cancer and obesity than meat-eaters are.

Edinburgh is leading the way for plant-based eateries – and vegan parents are spoilt for choice! PETA have shared their favourite child-friendly restaurants with us: Akva – This Swedish bar and café features two children’s corners and an array of toys to entertain your little ones. The Scandinavian-inspired menu is rich in vegan options, from vegan haggis to Danish smørrebrød.

La Favorita – Using MozzaRisella, a smoked vegan mozzarella made from rice milk, La Favorita was the first restaurant in Edinburgh to offer a pizza topped with vegan cheese. Families are offered a complimentary “kids’ pack” for entertainment.

Henderson’s – Family-friendly Henderson’s has been offering meat-free cuisine in Edinburgh since 1962. The vegan menu features a variety of dishes, from burgers to chickpea pancakes.

Las Iguanas – This relaxed and casual eatery offers a range of tasty treats, such as mushroom fajitas and sweet potato chilli. Las Iguanas also offers free baby food for its youngest guests!

Earthy – Fresh and healthy meals, many of which are clearly marked “vegan”, are available for the whole family at Earthy’s – including flavourful lunches, light snacks and colourful salads that will make your children love eating their vegetables.

Nova Pizza – Pizza is always a hit with kids, and this all-vegetarian pizzeria doesn’t disappoint: the seven-page (!) vegan menu is jam-packed with Italian deliciousness.

Vegan living for families has never been easier or more delightful – and high-street chains such as Pret a Manger, Zizzi and Wagamama are offering delicious new options for plant-based customers, including kids.

For more information on vegan eating and to order your free vegan starter kit, please visit PETA.org.uk.

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CraFt the mine!

National Mining Museum Scotland is a 5 star visitor attraction set in the wonderfully restored Lady Victoria Colliery in Newtongrange, just 5 minutes from the Edinburgh City by-pass and a 5 minute walk from Newtongrange Railway Station! Visitors to our award winning museum can enjoy two floors of fascinating exhibitions, guided tours of the colliery with insights into what life was like for the miners and their families, Find the Colliery Cats activity, dress up, Mini Miners Soft Play, outdoor play and picnic areas and brand new for summer 2016 – Crafting the Mine! Our full summer events programme can be found on our website www.nationalminingmuseum.com or find National Mining Museum Scotland on Facebook. In the meantime here’s a not-to-be-missed date for your diary our annual Family Fun Day takes place on 21st August – tickets are on sale online now!! We hope to see lots of you over the summer!

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Family based drop in at JaCk kane

Every Saturday between 10am and 12pm you can drop in to Jack Kane Community Centre for their free, fun family based group for children and young people with additional support needs and their families. Come along and take part in a range of positive play opportunities including arts and crafts, games, baking, and more. Meet other families and get involved in activities and workshops.

Children and young people’s siblings, friends and wider family members are also more than welcome.

Jack Kane Community Centre, 208 Niddrie Mains Road, Edinburgh, EH16 4ND, 0131 657 1595 www.jackkanecommunity.org

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take FliGht

©Rob McDougall

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The Scottish Seabird Centre is exploring the wonders of flight. Captain Flap has crash landed his plane, Puffin One! He needs to learn the principles of flight so that he can repair his plane. Will he make it home? Find out during this interactive science show by the North Berwick seaside.

Not only that but there will be a whole host of Seaside Science Flying Fun interactive activities on throughout the week. There will be science experiments, fizzy bottle rockets plus the chance to create kites and paper aeroplanes.

Captain Flap Flies Forth is on from Friday 1 July to Sunday 14 August, Friday to Sunday, at 14:00.

Seaside Science Flying Fun is on from Monday 4 July to Sunday 11 August, Monday to Thursday 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. www.seabird.org info@seabird.org 01620 890 202

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have a berry merry summer Let your kids run rampant this summer in the bountiful fields of Border Berries. A family-run PYO farm full of fresh, juicy Scottish strawberries, raspberries, gooseberries, tayberries, red and blackcurrants which are naturally ripened in the open air. Great for tasting right away, whisking home for baking, puddings or jam – berry picking is one of life’s simple pleasures for little foragers. A picnic area and café with split-fresh baking, smoothies and homemade icecream, serves hungry pickers. No entry charges, just get picking!

Find us down in the Scottish Borders near St Boswells, approximately 45 miles or 1hr from Edinburgh.

Open from Monday 4th July until mid-August. To plan your visit and check what’s ripe when, visit www.borderberries.co.uk

Things to do during the school holidays

spotlites drama workshops

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These 5* hits are a great start to the Fringe day at 9.30am and give parents time for a coffee break! Themes vary each day so be sure to check out www.spotlites.co.uk for full info!

This year there’s Minecraft, Star Wars, Minions, Horrible Histories, Harry Potter Wizard School, Alice in Wonderland, Avengers, Jurassic Adventure, The Thundermans, Scooby Doo and the BFG - these sold out almost immediately last year so book very quickly!

Book online or call 01634 829468 or call EdFringe on 0131 226 0000.

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say somethinG niCe to someone

I’m sure we all think nice things about other people but how often do we say them? It’ll feel good to do - and wonderful to be on the receiving end of!

Here, I’ll get us started - Excuse me, see you? Yes you Families Edinburgh reader. You’re awesome!

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Things to do during the school holidays Clamber, sCramble and slide!

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Clip ’n Climb offers a fun and accessible climbing experience for ages 4 and up!

15 different climbing challenges with 20 climbing lines and a maximum capacity of 20 people at each hour’s session.

Harnessed into a hands-free automatic belay system specifically designed for the climbing industry, climbers have a safe controlled descent after scaling the heights, without the assistance of a partner.

Opening times vary depending on school holidays and term time so check the EICA:Ratho website. To book: www.eica-ratho.co.uk

sprinG into summer Once the final school bell sounds at the end of June, you may be left scratching your head thinking of ways to keep the kids amused during the summer holidays.

Fear not, as Cameron Toll Shopping Centre’s fun-filled programme of free activities will help fill your activity

calendar.

From arts & crafts workshops to storytelling sessions and face painting there is something to amuse kids no matter what their age. And enticing them with some free activities means they’ll happily skip into the centre to help you do the weekly shop! Then when the dreaded return to school starts to loom, the centre has everything you’ll need to kit them out all under one roof. Stop off in BHS and Sainsbury’s for great uniform deals, Shoezone and Clarks for the hardest wearing shoes around and WH Smith and Waterstones for books and stationary.

Cameron Toll is a premium shopping centre located just one and a half miles from Edinburgh's city centre.

For more information on the summer activity programme, and to keep up to date with the latest offers in the centre, visit www.camerontoll.co.uk or like www.facebook.com/camerontollshopping.

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swim For Free Free child swims promotion is back for another year, offering under 18s the chance to swim for free between 11am – 4.30pm Sun 3rd July to Sat 13th August in each of East Lothian’s pools, including Dunbar Leisure Pool!

For full details visit www.enjoyleisure.com

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Get sChool shoes Fitted

Treehouse Childrenswear have provided some top advice about what to look for when shopping for school shoes: Firstly, it’s important to get a professional measure and fit.

What Does A Good Fit Look Like?

• The heel should grip the shoe well, and there should not be any gaps at the back and sides. This is checked by lightly pulling at the heel while the child is sitting, and also running a finger round the back while the child is standing.

• The widest part of the foot should be in the widest part of the shoe, and by running your fingers down the side of the shoes you are checking to make sure there is no pressure or bulging.

Across the top of the shoe should be a nice ripple effect, no movement in materiel means the shoe is too narrow, and if you are able to pinch the leather the shoe is too wide.

• Toe room is checked to ensure there is roughly a thumb nail width.

• Finally a walk around in the new shoes should be comfortable, ensuring no slipping at the heels or excessive gapping down the sides.

Once you have your lovely new shoes - look after them!

Clean regularly with polish to keep the shoes looking better and lasting longer. Woly do a brilliant shoe cream containing carnauba wax – specifically for smooth leather shoes, covering scuffs & scratches.

Treehouse Childrenswear are committed to providing the best service, and carryout professional training with all members of the team, so you can feel confident of the best fit for your child. 10 - 12 Hamilton Place, Edinburgh, EH3 5AU 0131 225 1242

tiGer traCks

This summer come face to face with Jambi and Baginda – RZSS Edinburgh Zoo’s pair of critically endangered Sumatran tigers in their new enclosure “Tiger Tracks”. More than three times the size of the existing enclosure it will feature a spectacular ground level, walkthrough tunnel, covered pathways, a high level viewing area, feeding post and cubbing den.

Edinburgh Zoo, Corstorphine EH12

play a travellinG Game

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Gulliver’s Toys have given us their top things to have to hand when travelling with children this summer.

• Rory’s Story Cubes • Playing Cards • Double Picture Matching Game • Doodle Pad and Pen • Sticker Book The old games are the best though and if you are imaginative then I Spy and 20 twenty questions can be played for hours with toddlers and teens alike, all you need to do is put an age appropriate twist on the games.

For example two year olds love to spot things so how about "how many people can you spot with black hair" or "a phone" and count with them as they point them all out.

They will even be learning their numbers and colours at the same time! special offer for Families edinburgh readers Buy a scooter from Gulliver’s Toys, mention Families Edinburgh and they’ll give you a free bell for your scooter!

Gulliver’s Toys, 165 b Bruntsfield Place, Edinburgh, EH10 4DG www.gulliverstoys.co.uk

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Get ChalkinG Large colourful chalk is great for drawing pictures outside or for marking out games. I still find it almost impossible not to jump along a hopscotch when I see one!

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Things to do during the school holidays

donate

On a rainy day go through that box of old toys and clothes the kids have grown out of (get them to help!) There are so many charities and organisations that would love to pass them on to families who really need them.

NappiRunz community project was born as a result of Toyin’s search for where to donate the leftover unused nappies after the birth of her son.

It encourages and gives people an avenue to collectively help families in need. Since NappiRunz began around 10,000 nappies have been collected. These have been donated to charities, Food banks and Women’s aid Shelters.

There are fortnightly collections and donation points at libraries and play cafes around Edinburgh.

Follow them on www.facebook.com/nappiRunz/ for news on the next run and to find out your nearest donation point.

Kids Love Clothes is a Scottish charity helping local struggling families with young children by providing much-needed, quality children’s clothing.

How it works People donate their laundered, good-quality, much-loved clothing that kids (0 – 10yrs) have grown out of to drop-off points all over the Lothians. The clothes are collected and stored in our private unit in Ratho where they are sorted.

Referrals come via professionals such as health visitors, midwives, social workers and others.

For each referral, we collate a wardrobe’s worth of seasonally appropriate clothes. The collated clothes are ironed by one of our volunteers, and packed into a stylish gift bag. As well as the usual trousers, t-shirts, fleeces and jumpers, we include a warm jacket, a pair of shoes, an age-appropriate book and a small toy. The finished gift bag is then delivered to the referring organisation who, in turn, passes it on to the family.

The gift bags are free, and the recipients receive quality clothes that have been put together with care and attention. Last year, we provided 468 children from struggling families across Edinburgh and the Lothians with a wardrobe of warm, quality, donated clothes. This year already, we note that the need for our service has sadly increased by 64%.

Each bag weighs around 3.5kg, so by reusing the clothes, thousands of kg of textiles has avoided going straight to landfill, while the bags themselves made from recycled material and are fully recyclable.

Nothing donated is wasted – we pass on items we can’t use to other charities such as 500 Miles, Glasgow Cares, Mary’s Meals and other deserving causes. The very small amount of donated clothing that simply can’t be reworn is sent to Rag Bag for recycling.

Kids Love Clothes is run entirely by volunteers who give freely of their time, their money and their expertise, in order to help expand the much-needed service. With this support the charity aims to reach even more struggling families, and alleviate the pressure of clothing their children in decent, warm, well-fitting clothes and shoes – something that so many of us take for granted. For more information, contact Julie Diver Thomson on 078 3334 1117 or Julie@39steps.co.uk. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KidsLoveClothes/ Twitter: @KidsLoveClothes

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visit the Cosmos planetarium

This summer, Dynamic Earth invites you and your family to take part in a world of incredible experiences! As well as travelling through time in our immersing galleries and taking in a breathtaking 360° ShowDome film – we’re hosting a ‘Space-tacular’ summer events programme to excite and entertain all future space explorers! Throughout the summer months, experience a range of different activities on different days to showcase the wonders of the universe. Take an awe-inspiring trip into space with a visit to the Cosmos Planetarium. Build and launch your own rocket, try out controlling a robot arm or engineering a Lego robot! Meet experts working in space research and train like an astronaut in our simulated mission challenges. You can even explore life on the International Space Station. Take your picture on board using our green screen technology and explore how astronauts go to the toilet in space! We’ll have face painting and storytelling for younger explorers, as well as opportunities to get creative and hands on with felting! When you’re ready to return to Earth, you can take in the fantastic Edinburgh Festival Fringe Schools Poster Competition exhibition. There’s so much going on at Dynamic Earth this summer, so keep up to date and check our website for our daily ‘What’s On?’ programme. www.dynamicearth.co.uk

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make no plans Sometimes the best days just happen!

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Families Edinburgh couldn’t be more excited about all the amazing talent heading our way in August. Or the daftness, we do like a bit of daftness!

Snail and the Whale

The Suitcase Kid

Tall Stories' hugely popular Julia Donaldson adaptation returns.

Jacqueline Wilson’s ‘The Suitcase Kid’ will be brought to life with puppetry and song by a large cast in a central venue.

In Vicky Ireland's exciting adaptation we follow the story of young Andy and her rabbit friend, Radish, as they adjust to their new homes following her parents’ divorce. With moments of magic, music and colourful wonder, this vibrant story by the Children’s Laureate will engage and delight. After sell-out successes in our last two visits to the Festival, ETC returns with a family show suitable for families with children aged seven and up.

ETC are pleased to offer readers an exclusive Ticket offer for Jacqueline Wilson’s ‘The Suitcase Kid’.

Those booking in person at the venue box office can quote RADISH to get a family ticket (Two adults, two children) for £20 (usual price £26).

5th-13th August (excl. 7th) @theSpace on Niddry Street (v9) 14.25pm (running at 1 hour)

Morgan and West

A tiny snail longs to see the world, so she hitches a lift on the tail of a humpback whale. Together they go on an amazing journey, experiencing sharks and penguins, icebergs and volcanoes. But when the whale gets beached, how will the tiny snail save him? Follow the snail’s amazing journey, as seen through the eyes of a very adventurous young girl, who’d love to be going round the world with her seafaring father... Storytelling, live music and lots of laughs, in a show for everyone aged 4 and up.

‘Faultless family fare… One of the best examples of children’s theatre’ ***** (Whatsonstage.com) 'Expect to leave the theatre happy and smiling' **** (Fest) 'An imaginative and heartfelt adaptation' **** (The List) 3rd to 21st August (not 6th or 17th). 11.50am (duration 55 minutes) Tickets: £7.00–£11.50 Pleasance Grand (Pleasance Courtyard – Venue 33)

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©Steve Ullathorne

Time travelling magic duo Morgan & West present a jaw dropping, heart stopping, brain busting, opinion adjusting, death defying, mind frying, spirit lifting, paradigm shifting, outlook changing, furniture rearranging magic extravaganza!

Witness a mountain of mysterious magic, a hatful of hyper-reality, and of course a truck full of tricks and tea. (Sadly there are no actual mountains or trucks on stage during the show, Mr West simply would not have them.)

Mixing brain boggling illusion and good old fashioned tom-foolery, Morgan & West present a show for all the family, where magic and silliness abound! Fun for ages 5 to 105*. *105 is rather an arbitrary upper age limit really - it just seemed to flow well in the prose.

“Hilarious and good for all ages” - Primary Times “Brilliantly funny” - ThreeWeeks “Hugely talented” - Daily Mirror “Superbly Crafted – The Stage 1.55pm, Underbelly Med Quad 3 – 29 August (not 17)

Story Pocket Theatre Award winning Story Pocket Theatre returns to the Fringe this year with not one, but FOUR shows to wow family audiences. In just two years Story Pocket has gained a reputation for beautifully crafted storytelling that enthrals and entertains.

Michael Morpurgo’s King Arthur (Gilded Balloon – Museum Auditorium, 2.45pm) An epic tale of magic, heroism, love and betrayal adapted from the novel Arthur: High King of Britain, by Michael Morpurgo, the author of War Horse and Private Peaceful. A drowning boy is rescued by a mysterious figure who claims to be Arthur Pendragon. As the old man tells his stories, he is transported back to the heady days of Camelot, the Round Table, Merlin, the Lady of the Lake, Excalibur, Lancelot and Guinevere.

Comedian Patrick Monahan hosts our brand new family comedy quiz. Pub Quiz for Kids (Gilded Balloon – Billiard Room, 2.30pm) will be a riotous affair involving everyone.

A brand new family fun quiz unlike anything you've seen before. We know the questions but only one person can know the answer. And that person's in the audience. Confused? So are we! Hosted by one of the UK's favourite stand-ups, this ©Ellis O’Brien quiz will go where no quiz has gone before. You may not learn very much general knowledge, but you'll definitely find out a thing or two about the people sitting near you – maybe about yourself as well! So prepare for fierce competition, lots of laughs but very few prizes.

A Pocketful of Grimms (Gilded Balloon - Dining Room, 11.15am) returns this year, with its magical retelling of favourite tales.

Enjoy a host of weird, dark, funny and fantastical adventures from the Brothers Grimm, retold in a high energy mix of clowning, puppetry, physical theatre, music and storytelling. Hansel and Gretel, the Golden Goose, Rumpelstiltskin, the original version of Beauty and the Beast and more are told by Story Pocket Theatre, winners of ThreeWeeks Editors' Choice Award 2015'Zestfully accomplished acting... engrossing storytelling and enthralling make-believe' (Stage).

Storyteller, Storyteller (Gilded Balloon – Sportsmans, 12.40pm) What happens when two children's storytellers arrive at the same place at the same time to tell their stories? And what happens if both of them think that they are the Storyteller? A head-to-head that leads to a feast of clowning, physical silliness and some magical, non-verbal storytelling, that's what!

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Comedy Club 4 Kids has stand-up from grown-up, high-quality acts like John Robins, Stu Goldsmith and Nish Kumar, who perform their usual sets, just without the swearing or rude bits." (The Independent)

True. Our gigs are GREAT. We've spent eleven years persuading the international circuit's best stand-ups, cabaret stars and sketch acts to perform for family audiences, at shows that are "sterling" (The Guardian), "great" (The Scotsman), and "just right" (Daily Telegraph). Gig veterans include James Acaster, Tiernan Douieb, Tim Fitzhigham, Bec Hill, Jonny & The Baptists, The Listies, Howard Read, Sara Pascoe, Jim Smallman, Iain Stirling, and improvisers Noise Next Door!

"An essential treat." - Fest Magazine "Absolutely hilarious." - The Yorkshire Times "The perfect way to entertain the whole family." - Three Weeks 5.35-6.35pm on 5-28 August. For ages 6+ at Assembly Roxy. £10 (£9) Friday-Sunday, £8.50 (£7.50) Monday-Thursday, £30 for 4 TEL: 0131 623 3030 www.assemblyfestival.com www.comedyclub4kids.co.uk

Mark Thompson’s Spectacular Science Show Expect to see exploding elephant’s toothpaste, vortex generating dustbins, dancing paste, vanishing beakers and even exploding Pringle tubes!

Explore the strange and magical properties of matter as Mark Thompson brings his infectious enthusiasm to Edinburgh You think science is boring – think again, this is science like you have never seen before.

Mark is a regular face on BBC ©Steve Ullathorne Breakfast and Five News and is an established author. Mark was also Co-Presenter of the original series of BBC’s Star Gazing Live. He’s been enthralling audiences for over 20 years with his fascinating journeys around the Universe. Now he brings things a little closer to home with this brand new show which is suitable for all the family and can be enjoyed by children and grownups alike.

Gilded Balloon at the Museum - the Auditorium.

South Entrance, Lothian Street, EH1 1HB Lothian Street, EH1 1HB. Preview 4th. Show 5th – 14th August @ 16:30 £8/£6. Family Ticket £24 (2 adults & 2 children)

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CeilidhKids at the Fringe – Free!

Venue 272 Laughing Horse @ The Free Sisters (Maggie’s Chamber) 10.15am 4th -16th Aug 11.15am 4th – 28th Aug (not 18th, 23rd, 25th) Aimed at families with 3-7 year olds but all welcome.

Children are Stinky Children are Stinky is an exciting new children’s comedy by awardwinning Circus Trick Tease.

High caliber circus, a rocking sound track, and genuine belly laughs propelled the Australian debut of Children are Stinky to a 5 Star Sell-Out season.

This is a show to be seen.

The duo’s attempts to prove that kids are stinky are met with messy, ridiculous, hysterical twists. They only succeed in proving that children are awesome…and they know it!

Expect dare devil stunts, incredible acrobatics, lighting fast hula hoops, and loads of laughs and mischievous fun leave adults and children with their jaws on the floor hooting for more. “…exceedingly funny” PLANETARTS “Gobsmacked” ADVERTISER “Superb” TIMEOUT “Children are Stinky showed my 3 year old that farts can be funny and for that I will be eternally grateful.” TOM BINNS Venue: Assembly George Square Gardens, Piccolo, Time: 12:35 Running Time: 45min Dates: 04 – 29 August (Not Wed) Tickets: Previews £5; Weekdays £6; Weekends £8; Bookings: assemblyfestival.com, 0131 623 3030 or www.edfringe.com

Admirable fooling or What you will Forsooth! An interactive playback theatre with admirable clowning and fooling, partying and pranks, masques and revels based on Shakespeare's Twelfth Night, or What You Will. Wit and humour for thine family in its entirety.

Come let loose and forget about your worries with feasting, music, mayhem, bloody coxcombs and admirable fooling. Little Shakespeare Theatre School returns to the Fringe after successful runs of Bottoms Up and Macbeth, written and directed by Michelle van Rensburg with a cast of talented young performers.

The story is retold in front of the puritanical Malvolio, who feels he was unfairly treated by his lady Olivia, played by Erin Louise Kilvin, and the Lord of Misrule, Sir Toby Belch, and his lady friend Maria who keep the party alive. www.littleshakespearetheatreschool.co.uk 8th-13th August 1.15am -12.30pm Royal Scots Club, the Hepburn suite £10, concession £8 families £5

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Admirable fooling or What you will Forsooth! An interactive

playback theatre with admirable clowning and fooling, partying and pranks, masques and revels based on Shakespeare's Twelfth Night, or What You Will. Wit and humour for thine family in its entirety.

8th-13th August 11.15am -12.30pm

Royal Scots Club, The Hepburn Suite £10, concession £8 families £5

Ribbet Ribbet Croak Join Grandma and Grandpa Frog as they leave the pond to plan a big surprise. You can also help them keep an eye out for their cheeky grandfrogs, who pop-up in unexpected places along the way!

Featuring puppetry, Makaton, live music and plenty of audience interaction, Ribbet Ribbet Croak is a playful exploration of life as frog, including finding friendship in unlikely places. Most of all it is a chance to view the environment from the perspective of a family of frogs.

Ribbet Ribbet Croak is suitable for PMLD and ASD family audiences and groups.

The Green, Pleasance Courtyard (Venue 33) 3rd - 21st August at 15:15* (16:00) *optional touch tour at 15:00 Box Office: 0131 556 6550 www.pleasance.co.uk | www.edfringe.co.uk | www.mouldedtheatre.com | @MouldedTheatre

Flinn is back!

Les Petits Theatre Company return to the high seas after their hugely successful and award winning Captain Flinn and the Pirate Dinosaurs rollicked the rigging and spliced the main brace!

The Magic Cutlass is the hugely anticipated sequel based on the awardwinning book by Giles Andreae and Russell Ayto.

When Flinn, Pearl and Tom are in the middle of their school play their old nemesis, Mr T the T-Rex, appears and kidnaps the children forcing them to hunt for the secretive Magic Cutlass; a sword that grants the holder any wish! The children are whisked away for another fantastic adventure to a world of devious dinosaurs, deep sea dangers and smelly sausages! It's all aboard, me hearties, for a real live pirate adventure!

Brought to life by Les Petits, the exciting children’s company from the team behind internationally acclaimed theatre company, Les Enfants Terribles (Alice’s Adventures Underground).

August 3 - 15, 17 - 29th. 10.30am Pleasance Courtyard (venue 33)

Lords of Strut: The Family Show Ireland's most lovable idiots bring their mischief and mayhem on tour.

A show for the whole family, bring your granny! Brothers Famous Seamus and Sean-tastic will do anything to be famous, really anything. If you're lucky, you might even end up as Sean's adopted family. Charm, sharp wit and good humour, with flashes of surprising acrobatic skill and just enough naughtiness to keep kids and adults guessing. Silly and bonkers – absolutely bonkers! High energy, funny and suitable for all ages. Fringe World Children's Award winner 2015.

“Silly and bonkers – absolutely bonkers” Adelaide Advertiser “the show you didn’t even know you needed” West Australian Assembly George Square. 4 14 August at 1.45pm

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Snail and I Take a Journey The Acting Scene is staging drama workshops at this years Fringe. Why not be part of the show and come with us on a fantastic journey.

“Snail & I take a Journey” is the story of a little snail with a big dream, who tries to make it past doubting friends, to go on the adventure of a lifetime. Along the way he makes new friends who teach him the importance of positivity and determination! This fun interactive children’s drama workshop allows young people to become involved in the Edinburgh Festival Fringe like never before.

Working with drama specialists they will create their own piece of theatre around our journey theme. But who will they meet? Only they can decide. A superhero, princess, maybe a whale!

“Snail & I take a Journey” Drama Workshop 5+ Pleasance Courtyard, 60 Pleasance, EH8 9TJ (1 h 30 m) BOX Office: 0131 556 6550 http://www.pleasance.co.uk August 3 - 5, 7 - 16 and 18 - 21 www.theactingscene.co.uk

Pleasance Kids Since its creation in 2009, Pleasance Kids has grown from strength to strength, and six years on remains the only venue in Edinburgh to offer a completely dedicated child-friendly area at The Kidzone on the Green, featuring a giant inflatable Igloo Theatre, weather-proof Art Pods, childfriendly food and pram shelter with nappy change.

This year, it's all about getting stuck-in and taking part. Aardman’s animator Jim Parkyn comes to The Kidzone with a series of model-making workshops for children and adults alike creating mini masterpieces to feed into The Amazing Scene Machine. To celebrate Aardman’s 40th birthday families can learn how to make some of Aardman's stars including Morph, Shaun Sheep and Wallace and Gromit with The Amazing Scene Machine Does Aardinburgh! workshops.

In the new workshop tent, children can make beautiful kites, grizzly monsters and learn how to properly paint their own faces with top make up artist Lynn Fraser from Fantoosh and, if that's not enough, there are drama workshops in Pleasance Forth - Snail and I take a Journey - for under 10s run by Edinburghbased The Acting Scene.

This year, for the first time, Pleasance is delighted to be presenting two shows for younger children at the Edinburgh International Conference Centre - Hup - a classical music experience for under 2s from Starcatchers in association with the RSNO and The Many Doors of Frank Feelbad - a large-scale fully immersive show from Bootworks Theatre, the team behind the unforgettable The Incredible Book Eating Boy. Back at the Courtyard, there are many fantastic shows on offer, including a variety of sea-themed stories including the Tall Stories adaptation of Julia Donaldson's Snail and The Whale; Mermalade about an unusual mermaid; Jellyfish a story of the sea, parenthood and mental health and Captain Flinn returns in an action-packed adventure - Captain Flinn and The Pirate Dinosaurs 2: The Magic Cutlass.

To browse full Kidzone programme visit www.pleasance.co.uk

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‘Oh Fe Fi Fo

And Fe Fi Fum! Now what shall I do to wipe my …..’

‘Bumpety! Bumpety!

Bumpety- Bump! A Giant’s toilet roll one day fell to the floor and flew away.’

Look out for the biggest loo roll ever on stage in this GIANT of a children’s musical. The villagers living in the town below the Giant’s house had better watch out, that loo roll has gone bouncing down the hill and straight towards them! Luckily, the townsfolk find lots of uses for runaway loo paper – one sheet provides a huge canvas for an artist, a tailor uses another to fill her shop with paper pants and a school class makes a huge dart that can fly. But what about the Giant himself – doesn’t he need any loo paper? The townspeople have an answer for that, too!

Watch out for some frightened sheep, lots of excited children and a fantastic amount of toilet paper in this rip roaring new musical by TaleGate Theatre Productions.

Catch this production at the Festival Fringe before its West End run at the Arts Theatre later in 2016!

Venue: SpaceTriplex (Venue 38) Dates: 12 – 27 August (excluding 21) Times: 10.30 Running Time: 50 minutes Prices: £12 Full, £10 Concession, £40 Family

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Father Christmas is back… and he still needs a WEE! At every house Father Christmas eats and drinks the tasty treats that have been left for him. But when he reaches number ten he realises that he’s forgotten to do something rather important and he really, really, really needs a WEE! TaleGate Theatre Productions hit the perfect combination of witty humour, fantastic music and the extra sparkle for which they have become known in this fabulously funny and well loved musical adaptation of Nicholas Allan’s much loved book.

“Magic, mayhen and mince pies. There all here in this musical” 5 Stars – The Edinburgh Fringe Show “A sweet tale told with energy, enthusiasm and plenty of silliness” 4 Stars – One4review “This delightfully entertaining show is a real hit with the youngsters” – Brian Cooper, THE STAGE “Not to be missed and a very strong contender for the children’s show award this year” – Primary Times “(The Songs) had the children dancing in their seats, and is still being sung, “You’ve got to wiggle. Wiggle, wiggle, wiggle, wiggle. Cross your legs and then you’ve got to jiggle.” Overall ‘Father Christmas Needs a Wee!’ is a lovely show for the under 7’s.” – FringeReview Venue: theSpace @ Venue 45 Dates: 12 – 27 August Times: 11.40 (14, 21 @ 14.40) Running Time: 50 minutes Prices: £11 Full, £9 Concession, £36 Family

Shine a Spotlite on your Fringe!

Fringe shines best in the Spotlite!

This summer you can find Spotlites, Venue 278 about 10 paces up the road from their former home of the last 8 years.

They’re now in the Royal Society of Edinburgh, where they have lots more room to create a really welcoming, exciting place to visit with complete accessibility for all, plenty of lifts and loos, a bar/ café with healthy snacks and meals and chill out activity zones for children to fill that wait before the play starts!

‘Best Children’s Show’ award-winners, Spotlites, are excited to premier a special new interactive play for children aged 5-12 this year at EdFringe. Braveheart tells the story of William Wallace, iconic Scottish rebel and fighter for ‘Freedom’ from the cruel rule of Edward Longshanks, King of England.

This is a really interactive play- the original and the best; children are in the thick of the action either joining in from their seats or onstage as they prefer.

From the team behind last year’s interactive Edfringe sell-out hits Peter Pan on Dinosaur Island: 'Fantastic' ***** (Sunday Mail); 'Amazing' ***** (ThreeWeeks). Oz and the Sith Pirates 2015 & 14: 'It's cracking' (Daily Record) and Merlin's Dragon 2012 & 14: 'OUTSTANDING SHOW' (FringeReview.co.uk).

‘Robinson Crusoe the Lost Jedi Knight’ is also for 5-12s and was an absolute smash- hit in 2010 and 11. This is Robinson Crusoe Star Wars style! Of course, being a Spotlites show children join in throughout the action; light sabres at the ready!

This year’s interactive plays for little ‘uns are: Puss In Boots, The Enormous Turnip and Magic Porridge Pot which have a bit of a cult following of families who love them so much that they come back every year, like reading a favourite book!

The Golden Goose (for 3-8s) is the story of a poor Boy and a sad Princess!

Rewarded by a starving Old Man who he shares his lunch with, Boy chops down a tree to rescue a Goose with Golden Feathers! If you try to steal a feather, you stick so soon there’s a line of people running along after Boy and his gluey Golden Goose! The Princess laughs to see them and becomes fast friends with Boy although the King, her father, sets three impossible challenges to try to split them up! Tickets for all Spotlites’ shows and workshops are online at www.spotlites.co.uk or 01634 829468 or call EdFringe on 0131 226 0000. Kids absolutely love these shows so book now and be certain of those smiles!

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Trash Test Dummies

Red Bridge Arts Red Bridge Arts brings two wonderful shows to this year’s Festival Fringe as part of Made in Scotland 2016, which showcases the wealth of world class performance created in Scotland.

Both shows highlight the quality and strength of Scotland’s work for family audiences.

4 - 9, 11 - 14 and 16 - 21 August Times vary.

Everyone put your bins out! Trash Test Dummies are back in Edinburgh from Australia! This sidesplitting, slapstick comedy circus delivers a dump truck of hilarity! Winners of Best Children’s Presentation at Adelaide Fringe 2016, the Trash Test Dummies are as full of laughs as their bins are full of surprises.

Returning to the Fringe after sell-out shows in 2015, this award-winning comedy takes the household wheelie bin to new heights.

Mikey and Addie is a delightful piece of storytelling, taking a funny and fastpaced look at growing up. Performed by award-winning theatre maker, Andy Manley (White and Huff) For ages 9+.

“Delivered with irresistible humour” **** The Herald Summerhall Aug 3 –28; (not 10, 15, 22) 11.25 summerhall.co.uk ©Pete Searle

'Circus and acrobatic show perfect for families' ***** (Edinburgh Festival For Kids). 'Dungeree’d dummies from down under create an adventure playground out of dustbins' **** (Herald).

Underbelly’s Circus Hub on the Meadows (venue 360)

Shark in the Park Timothy Pope is looking through his telescope – but wait, what's this he spies – is that a shark, in the park!?

From the producers of The Hairy Maclary and Friends Show – see all three of Nick Sharratt's Shark in the Park books live on stage!

Including Shark in the Park, Shark in the Dark and Shark in the Park on a Windy Day, this wonderful family adventure features a highly talented cast of actor-musicians. Follow Timothy Pope (and his telescope) on three exciting adventures in search of the elusive shark!

Aug 4 - Aug 29 Performance time - 10:00 Duration: 1 hour Assembly George Square Theatre - The Theatre

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Will Pickvance’s acclaimed show, Anatomy of the Piano (for beginners) takes audiences on an entertaining, musical journey through piano history.

Combining brilliantly played piano music and witty storytelling this is a must see for all music lovers. For ages 6+ ‘Highly entertaining maestro for young and old alike’ **** The Stage Scottish Storytelling Centre Aug 4-28; (not 17, 22, 23, 24) 13.00 scottishstorytellingcentre.co.uk redbridgearts.co.uk madeinscotlandshowcase.com

Future Perfect Is there a moment from your past that you'd like to change?

Dominic's certainly got one. Travel backwards and forwards in time with Dominic as he frantically tries to fix things. Can he change the past and make his future perfect?

A comical interactive adventure for kids aged 8-12 and their grown-ups.

August 4 - 9 and 11 - 14 at 2pm Pleasance Courtyard (Venue 33) Go to www.edfringe.com to find out more about venues and ticket collection points.

Cat in the Hat From the moment his tall, red and white striped hat appears around the door, Sally and her brother know that the Cat is the funniest, most mischievous cat they have ever met.

With the trickiest of tricks, he turns a rainy afternoon into an amazing adventure. But what will mum find when she gets home?

Based on the much loved book by Dr Seuss, The Cat in the Hat is a lively, engaging first theatre experience for children aged 3+. Expect towering hats, mischief and fun that is funny! Originally produced by the National Theatre.

Pleasance Courtyard, 3 - 21 August 1.10pm

Red Riding Hood Little Red is clever, Little Red is bright, Little Red will find a way to beat you in a fight.

Follow Red as she ventures through the woods on a quest to save her family bakery. But will she be distracted by the wolf in the magical forest, where nothing is as it seems? Filled with humour and packed with original music, Red Riding Hood brings a new twist to the classic tale of bravery, love, friendship and family in a show for the whole family.

3 - 21 August Pleasance Courtyard 11.10am

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I Am Rhythm

by After Freedom Productions 5-7 Aug, 9-14 Aug, 17-21 Aug at 15.00 Tickets: £12 (£10) Previews 5–7 Aug: £10 (£8) A fresh, upbeat dance show that tells the story of the evolution of rhythm and dance in South Africa. Rhythm is a 16-legged dance beast that will get you stomping and clapping to the mesmerising beats of traditional and urban dances. Enjoy tribal Tswana, warrior Zulu, energetic Gumboot, swinging Kofifi, urban Pantsula, Sbujwa and Kwasa-Kwasa dance styles and let the magic of African beats and movement light up your summer. I Am Rhythm explores the impact of tribal and traditional cultures on modern and urban music and dance, bringing township culture to the Edinburgh Festival Fringe.

For ticket information and to book, call 0131 225 5525 Dance Base, 14-16 Grassmarket, Edinburgh, EH1 2JU dancebase.co.uk

Fraxi Queen of the Forest Home provider, oxygen producer and no.1 BFF Fraxi the Ash tree is guardian to all forest dwellers. But when tragedy strikes and Fraxi's in danger, friends Woody and H.B. Caterpillar must choose how to save their beloved home! A compelling tale of friendship and resilience. Explore and learn with Fraxi in her ever changing forest home. Returning to Edinburgh Fringe and fresh from 2016 touring, this striking dance theatre piece inspires love and thoughtfulness towards the natural world. Created and directed by Marta Mari.

Written by Scotland New Playwrights Award Winner, Jack Dickson. Music by Greg Sinclair (2016 Arts Foundation Children’s Theatre Award Winner). Produced by Asylon Theatre.

"Not only does this surprising topic make a compelling drama, it holds its young audience absolutely captivated" **** Broadway Baby Family show for audiences 6+ Venue 124 Zoo (Aviary) 140 Pleasance 5th-14th August at 1:00 (1h) Tickets £8 (£6), family £24 Booking at: www.tickets.edfringe.com www.fraxi.co.uk

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Treasure Island This child-friendly adaptation is a very funny, high energy, big, bold and bright show that features colourful costumes, crazy characters and a large interactive screen so that nobody misses any of the piratey action!

From these highly experienced producers of children's theatre comes lots of laughter, plenty of adventure and a whole host of pirates brought to life by our intrepid duo in search of buried treasure! So jump aboard as we set sail for pirates, mermaids, monkeys and more blummin' pirates! Grab your booty and don't miss the boat.

Gilded Balloon at the Museum August 3 - 11, 14 - 21 and 23 - 28 Times vary.

The Lists 6D (Twice as good as 3D) 2016 is a big year already for The Listies. They’ve sold out seasons at Sydney Opera House, toured all over Australia, published a book with penguin, and finely tuned their toilet paper cannons. Now they are stoked to return to Edinburgh with their show 6D: Twice As Good as 3D. This fast-paced hour of fun features haunted backpacks, ninja grans, vomiting puppets, alien attacks and an actual 6D movie filmed at every show! Jam packed full of the high-brow things that kids love (like fart jokes) it’s guaranteed to make the whole family, including dads, LOL (laugh out loud), ROLF (roll on the floor laughing) & even ROLFSHALBOWCO (roll on the floor laughing so hard a little bit of wee comes out).

“If your kids have never been to the theatre before take them to The Listies, it’s something they won’t forget” The Scotsman.

Squirrel Stole My Underpants ’Squirrel Stole My Underpants’ is very likely to steal your heart…There are so many visual delights you won't want to blink, for fear of missing one...” - CBC News In this poignantly silly adventure tale for families, Sylvie is sent to the backyard to hang up the laundry. The moment her back is turned, a mischievous squirrel steals her favorite piece of clothing and runs off. When Sylvie gives chase, an entire world emerges from her laundry basket. Will our lonely heroine rescue her underpants? Join us for this adventure to find out! Featuring: physical theater, puppetry, and a giant pile of clothes.

For ages 3 & up “Kids Fringe doesn’t get much better than this.” - CBC News 5-19 August @ 10.40 am (40 min) no shows 8, 11 Venue 26, Summerhall 1 Summerhall, Edinburgh, EH9 1PL TICKETS: www.summerhall.co.uk or 0131 560 1581 THEGOTTABEES.com

Winner Sydney Theatre Award for Best Children’s Production WARNING: This show is Rated S for Stupid Assembly Roxy (venue 139) 4 - 21 August at 2.45pm

Manhattan Children's Theatre presents Mermalade World Premiere Based on the children's book by Clare Cockburn-Martin Illustrated by Anna Welsh Directed and Adapted by Laura Stevens "So many WHY's! Why? Why. Why, why, why, why why! It's exhausting." said Thor, God of Thunder, to Mermalade.

Can any parent disagree? The WHY's are truly exhausting. Do they ever end? Certainly not for Mermalade.

A "Little Mermaid" she is not. Left with a cryptic note, a pearl and three annoying oysters for company, Mermalade is determined to make sense of it all. She's brave enough to approach the biggest forces in the universe, strong enough to confront those that get in her way, but is she wise enough to find her answer?

Mermalade is a fast paced, interactive comedy. A universal quest. A play for all ages.

This is Manhattan Children’s Theatre’s second Fringe production. Their 2015 show, “The Last of the Dragons” received high acclaim.

“Hurray for Manhattan Children’s Theatre!” **** (Scotsman – The Last of the Dragons 2015) “An absolute delight. A must see!” *****(Broadway Babies – The Last of the Dragons 2015) Pleasance Courtyard (venue 33) August 3 - 16, 19 - 21 and 25 - 29 at 11.15am.

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Jo Jingles - Jo's Celebrating His Birthday!

Following successful sell-out shows in previous years, Jo Jingles is back for the Edinburgh Festival Fringe. This year’s theme is Jo's birthday, so come and help us celebrate 21 years of Jo Jingles' music and movement and party with Big Jo and team! We have musical instruments to play and fun props too, so come and join the fun! If you attend our classes, contact your class teacher for tickets, or contact the Edinburgh Festival Fringe box office. Mixed age family sessions suitable for zero-six years, baby sessions suitable for under ones only.

Murrayfield Parish Church Wed 10th Aug 10am & 11.30am Thu 11th Aug 10am, 11.30am (babies only), 2pm Fri 12th Aug 10am & 11.30am Sat 13th Aug 10am, 11.30am & 2pm (babies only) £5 per ticket, all adults and children require a ticket.

Poggle (6 months to 4 years) Barrowland Ballet and Macrobert Arts Centre

By Natasha Gilmore and the company "Perfectly formed dance theatre takes its early years audience to the top of the tree and shows them the view" The Stage Mischief maker, maker of fun, Tumble tumble, tickle my tum, Beasties beasties, buzzing bees, Poggle’s not scared of climbing trees.

Vince wants to explore the forest but he’s too scared until he meets Poggle; A friendly creature who takes him on an adventure through the forest to discover the magical musical tree. A funny, dance theatre show with live music and an invitation to discover hidden secrets within the set. www.madeinscotlandshowcase.com, www.barrowlandballet.co.uk “Wonderfully imaginative.”

The Herald 1:30pm14 Aug 5th, 6th & 7th, Preview £8 (£6) Aug 9th, £9, (£7), (2 for 1) Aug 10th – 21st, £9, (£7) (Not Mondays) Dancebase, 14-16 Grassmarket, EH1 2JU, Box Office: 0131 225 5525

©Steve Ullathorne

Monksi Mouse’s Baby Disco Dancehall Why toddle when you can dance? Get glam and get dancing at this international hit, retro-fabulous vintage disco for the under 5’s.

A show, a disco, and simply too much fun before midday.

Get your disco-dancingbooties on. Fridays & Saturdays hosted by Monski Mouse Sundays hosted by a very special guest.

Aug 5 - Aug 28 Performance time - 10:45 Duration: 50 minutes Assembly George Square Gardens - Spiegeltent Palais Du Variete

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Summer Camps, Classes & Activities So many amazing activities to fill the school summer holidays with!

Farmers helpers at GorGie City Farm Farmer’s Helpers is a holiday club offered every weekday for 8-12 year olds 10am to 12.30, £10 per session (booking essential).

Tasks are diverse include training the pygmy goat kids, grooming the cow, walking sheep, cuddling rabbits, mucking out pigs, harvesting fruit and lots more! www.gorgiecityfarm.org.uk

summer ruGby CoaChinG Camps TotalRugby is open to players of all abilities, providing a great introduction to rugby, or an opportunity for skill development, but most importantly a fun way to spend the holidays with friends or make some new ones.

The weekly structure to our coaching uses the key components of rugby based around the central theme of having fun. Attack, defence, contact and game play are among some of the components included, as well as our daily coaches challenge. Leadership exercises also help promote responsibility, communication and trust.

4 weeks of 5 day long camps - Monday 18 July through to Friday 12 August 10am to 3.30pm - £140 per week for ages 5 - 16.

Fettes College Playing Fields, Edinburgh, EH4 1QX (indoor facilities available if required) For more information visit www.totalrugby.org or contact us at info@totalrugby.org

summer adventures From the Green team, whatever the weather!

2 week-long Environmental Activity Weeks for children aged 9 and over giving children the opportunity to explore the natural world, make new friends and learn new skills in some of Edinburgh and the Lothians most amazing wild places. Over the 5 day experience children will enjoy a host of outdoor activities including fire lighting, outdoor cooking, shelter-building, environmental art, geocaching, stealth and woodland skills, pond-dipping and of course, a visit to the beach! 9am to 5pm each day. www.greenteam.org.uk.

exCel sports Camps Children (ages 5 - 15) follow a structured timetable each day 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.

The Excel+ Camps include canoeing, dance, art, football and basketball. We also run Sport Leaders courses, which lead to a SCQF qualification.

Each week will have a variety of sporting activities, tournaments, team games and film making.

With an end of week show on Friday at 4.30pm for parents to watch the highlights of the week, film making on the big screen and the prize giving. And finally the end of week Excel BBQ. 4th July - 12th August. Multisports Camp cost: £188 Open 8am - 6pm. Packed day of activities - 9am - 5pm 16 different Excel+ options available.

Excel is fully booked each year. Book now at www.excel-sports.co.uk

summer Cat Love wildlife and want to help protect it? Book onto a wild week of Summer CAT at RZSS Edinburgh Zoo! Launching in July 2016 for children entering P4-7 after the summer, Summer CAT will be based out of our brand new Wildlife Garden yurt.

Activities include making wildlife homes, bush craft, gardening, encounters, zoo trails, games and much more!

For more information or to book your place(s) please visit: Edinburghzoo.org.uk/summercat

edinburGh danCe aCademy Our Summer School will run at the purpose built dance studios at Broughton High School from 25 July - 30 July 2016, 9.30am 2.00pm daily.

There will be workshops in Ballet, Commercial Jazz, and Musical Theatre.

We have three fantastic state of the art studios running at the same time each day and the groups (split by age) will go between them all on rotation.

We finish the week with a fabulous show on the morning of Saturday 30 July.

The Summer School is open to anyone from age 5yrs with lots or no experience of dance. We can guarantee that everyone will have lots and lots of fun!! Please email edinburghdance@aol.com or call Suzie on 0131 337 3402 to book.

midlothian snowsports Centre Skiing, Snowboarding and Tubing are all available at Midlothian Snowsports Centre, Britain’s largest artificial slope.

Our 5 day junior summer ski and snowboard camps are running weekly from 11th July – 12th August. We offer a range of ski and snowboard lessons for all ages from beginners to advanced and everything in between... and there’s no need to worry about equipment as we supply it all, even down to poles and helmets.

For an exhilarating ride down the hill, slide down our purpose built tubing runs in an inflatable doughnut ring, fun for all the family!

Open every day during the summer holidays.

Bigger Road, Edinburgh. Call: 0131 445 4433

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Summer Camps, Classes & Activities edinburGh montessori arts sChool summer Club

maGiC sChool workshops

11th – 29th July Dance and Nature club for 4-7s.

Come and join Heini, our dance and activity specialist for active, creative dance filled mornings and outdoor exploration afternoons. Daily and weekly bookings available. £95 for full week or pro rata. 11am – 3.30pm.

Book early to avoid disappointment.

0131 672 3851 office@emaschool.co.uk

The hugely popular Magic School is back this summer from 4 - 7 July.

From startling levitations and crazy card tricks to making objects disappear, Magic School will teach you everything you need to know to impress your friends and family with real magic!

Children, aged 7 to 10 years, will have the amazing opportunity to learn spellbinding tricks and mesmerising illusions at a 2.5 hour Magic School Workshop or the 4-day Magic School course, which ends with a fun show for parents on the last day.

For further details and bookings please visit www.magicfest.co.uk or call box office 0131 226 0006

dynamiC earth’s summer (not) sChool Come explore with Dynamic Earth’s Summer (not) School The week long programs offer participants the chance to learn all about the parks past, present and future through an engaging mix of outdoor activities, scientific investigation, practical conservation, team games and more.

10am - 4.30 each day although early drop off can be made from 8:30 and participants must be picked up by 17:30. £165 for the 5 days.

The Young Explorers week is now full but there is still space available for the Outdoor Academy 1st—5th August 2016 for 10—13 yrs Contact Anna Danby on 0131 523 1207 or anna.danby@dynamicearth.co.uk

whiZZkids Whizzkids is offering a range of computer courses this Summer for children aged 5 and up. Learn the basics of the pocket-sized computer including programming Minecraft through the Python language, setting up LEDs and buzzers using the Raspberry Pi’s GPIO pins and creating fun games. Children can make fun games and animations using the Scratch programming language. If coding’s not your thing then there’s desktop publishing, project creation, PowerPoint, touch-typing, computer art, educational games and a general computing skills course and for the more advanced there’s the OCR ITQ course which leads to a computing qualification.

Please e-mail gillian@whizzkids.uk.com, check out the website at www.whizzkids.uk.com or call 0131 447 5893.

sasCs summer sChemes Monday 6th July to Friday 29th July 2016, 8.30am -5.30pm Sciennes Primary School, 10 Sciennes Road Edinburgh, EH9 1LG. Sports Camp – for children who have completed P4 and up! including: football, basketball, volleyball, badminton. As well as involving outings to local venues. Full Day - £25.00; Full Day Trip - £28.00 Holiday Care – for children aged 4.5 -12+years (but primarily aimed at children aged 4.5 - 8years) Craft, science, baking, swimming and outdoor games as well as outings. Qualified Nursery Nurses on the staff team mean we can accommodate children who will be P1 at Sciennes PS in Aug 2016.

Full Day - £19.00; Half Day - £11.50; Trip - £24.00 Both schemes are run by experienced and qualified staff.

Online booking ONLY, via our website (www.sascs.org.uk) until 27th June 2016 (midnight). Please be advised no bookings will be accepted following the closing date.

pentlands aCtivity Camps (paC)

danCe: musiC: animation Ages 7 – 9 & 10 – 12 Monday 11th - Friday 15th July 10.00 – 17.00 £125 (£100 for additional children from the same family) 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, before sharing their work in front of family and friends at the end of the week. Dance Base have teamed up again with Animation Jam to bring you a fantastic start to your summer. To book, call 0131 225 5525 or go to dancebase.co.uk.

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

Monday 6th July to Friday 29th July 2016, 8.30am - 5.30pm Sports Camp is for children who have completed P4+ / age 9 years+. Sports Camp will offer the children the opportunity to experience a range of different sports.

Holiday Care for ages 4.5 - 12+ Holiday Care offers a range of activities including; craft, science, baking, swimming and outdoor games as well as outings.

Both schemes are run by experienced and qualified staff.

Both age groups will also have the opportunity to take part in full day trips to venues such as: Scottish Deer Centre; Scone Palace; etc.

Watch out for our activity programme for details!!!

Online booking ONLY at www.sascs.org.uk Friday 24th June 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

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

This Summer PAC is back at Netherurd House in Blyth Bridge 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 oldfashioned fun’ – den-building, pond-dipping, treeclimbing, hide and seek...and much more!

PAC welcomes all school-age children and we now offer Specialist PAC Camps including: Cooking Camp, Football Camp, BushCraft Camp or Drama Camp Our website gives you more information on dates and prices 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

Summer Camps, Classes & Activities step it up danCe Two camps at Broughton High Schools, for children currently in P1 – 7, for the full weeks of 18th – 22nd July and 1st – 5th August from 9.30am 3.30pm.

Each day will involved lots of urban dance, team games, creative tasks and active fun so expect to see lots of smiling faces at pick up time (and lots of early bedtimes!)

The price for each week-long camp is £75 Spaces a strictly limited and we expect demand to be high so don't delay, confirm your child's summer fun today!

Booking details: www.stepitupdance.co.uk For more info email hello@stepitupdance.co.uk or call 07428 110 135 Cost: £75

talkinG tots summer Classes Summer Specials – 1 hour themed classes including drink and snack, for 18 months – 3 years.

Summer Sunshine – Wed 13th July, Knights & Princesses – Wed 20th July, Crazy Colour Capers – Wed 27th July, all 10.30-11.30am at Marchmont St. Giles’ Parish Church. £6.50 per session or £18 for all 3.

Summer Sparklers – Five 1 hour classes over a week focusing on confident communication, group participation, pre-literacy skills and language development. Aimed at 4 and 5 year olds starting P1 in August 2016/17. Monday 25th – Friday 29th July, 23pm at Marchmont St. Giles’ Parish Church. Drink and snack included and free T-shirt! £37 for the full week.

For more info or to book contact Zo on 07595 002278 or zoe@talkingtots.info www.talkingtots.info/Edinburgh

dndanCe summer sChools THE WIZARD OF OZ, 1st - 5th August (very limited space still available) DANCE MOVIES, 8th - 12th August.

Open to students age 5 - 13, doors open 9am 5pm, T-shirt included.

Each week is jam packed full of fun, with a mini show performed on the Friday afternoon. Wizard of Oz week is a journey of song, dance, scenes & craft making. Dance Movie week is more focused on different dance styles, perfect for any budding dancer.

Held at our studios: StudioD, The Basement, 4 Hutchison Terrace Edinburgh EH14 1QB. Fantastic weekly cost and sibling discount offered. nicky@dndance.co.uk 07545551271

danCe For all's popular summer sChool is baCk this auGust!

Enthusiastic young dancers, from 6 to 16yrs, will experience an energy filled, fun-packed week of dance (including jazz, street & flamenco), choreography and musical theatre, culminating in an exciting studio performance at the end of the week.

Monday 8th - Friday 12th Aug 9.30-3.30pm. £130 with 10% off per sibling.

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. www.danceforall.co.uk or call 0131 226 5533.

doodles summer holiday workshops: Week 1: Monday 18th - Friday 22nd July Week 2: Monday 1st - Friday 5th August 10.30am - 12 noon each day, costing £55 for the week ( includes juice and snack) and is suitable for age 7 and up.

Monday - Make your own two tier cake stand in clay.

Tuesday - Make and paint your own clay sweet shop plaque.

Wednesday - Decorate your own candy bowl.

Thursday - Paint the cake stand you made on Monday.

Friday - Decorate your own decopatch mini popcorn bucket Call us to book your child a place!

0131 229 1399. 29 Marchmont Crescent, EH9 1HQ

ruGby tots summer Camp The worlds favourite play programme are holding another fantastic summer camps for 4 to 7 year olds!

Our camps will improve your child’s passing, catching, kicking and decision making through numerous drills and games. The sessions will be high tempo, enthusiastic and most importantly, fun and it would not be complete without the kids learning a Haka!

We will also emphasise teamwork, respect of others, enjoyment, discipline, and sportsmanship. Rugbytot’s believe these are important skills to take through life on and off the sporting field. The camps will provide the correct balance of skills and games, to ensure that they have a fun time to remember.

11th to 15th July 2016 - 9.30am – 1:30pm Holyrood High School, Duddingston Road West, Edinburgh, EH15

summer aCtivities at Jupiter artland Festival Artsparks (ages 5-12) Our first ever week long Festival Artsparks. Over the 5 days we will experiment with different processes and mediums working towards an exhibition of the children’s artworks, open for public viewing for the first time.

1-5 August, 9am-5pm, ages 5-12, £185, Booking essential.

Artsparks (ages 5-12) This summer Jupiter Artland is offering even more of 12 day outdoor Artsparks courses, inspired by our temporary exhibition programme. New for 2016 we are offering extended drop off times with supervised outdoor play and art activity.

1 day courses, ages 5-12, 10am-4pm £80 or 9am-5pm £100. 2 day courses, ages 5-12, 10am-4pm £40 or 9am5pm £50. Booking essential www.jupiterartland.org

holiday heiGhts at eiCa:ratho Rockport Adventure Camp for 8 – 17 year olds throughout the summer where kids can get a real taste of adventure outdoors and indoors. And if a week is too long, we’re running day-long Multi-Activity camps for 8 – 14 years where kids can get a taster of some of the adventures available at EICA:Ratho. And for littler ones aged 5 – 7years there’s our very special week-long Gecko sessions. Contact EICA:Ratho on 0131 333 6333 or go to eica-ratho.co.uk

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Summer Camps, Classes & Activities biGworld Forest sChool summer holiday Clubs Monday 25th to Friday 29th July, South Edinburgh Monday 8th to Friday 12th August, North Edinburgh For woodland enthusiasts aged 8 and up. For the eighth year running, from our woodland base camps, we'll explore the nearby woodlands and come up with activity and project ideas together.

As usual, group members can choose from and learn a whole range of activities, such as: shelter-building, wild cookery, fire-making techniques, tool-use & survival techniques; archery; nature photography, pottery, weaving & woodland art galleries; pond dipping, bug-hunting, tracks and trails and camouflage, games and much, much more . . .

Our programme is designed and led by highly experienced, trained Forest School staff, allowing children to develop their nature interests, skills, self-esteem and independence within a safe, supportive and inspiring group structure.

Time: 9am-5pm each day. Cost: £33 per day / £165 per week. Maximum group size 14 (ages 8-14 years). Maximum ratio 1:7, with additional experienced specialist onsite from 11am–3pm (ratio 1:5) View more pictures on our facebook page www.facebook.com/BigWorldAdventures To make a reservation or enquiry please contact: info@bigworldadventures.org, or call Liz on 07792394963.

international sports aCademy summer Camp Based at Merchiston Castle School during the week of 16th – 23rd July 2016.

Aimed at students aged 9-16 coaching clinics will include football, rugby, tennis, basketball, lacrosse and hockey amongst other great sports and activities.

Sports Package – Students will engage in sports coaching clinics in the morning and afternoon. Mon-Fri from 0800-1530, includes lunch & snacks- £195 Day Package – Students engage in sports coaching clinics in the morning and sporting & cultural trips in the afternoon. Mon-Fri from 0800-1800 includes transport, fees, lunch & snacks£395.

Residential Package - an unrivalled ISA experience- £795. www.internationalsportsacademy.org for full details and online bookings.

westwoods superstars – multi aCtivity Camp For Children The club is situated within the stunning grounds of Fettes College ensuring your child can enjoy exciting activities in a fun and safe environment.

Activities include swimming, indoor and outdoor sports, arts and crafts, traditional games, trips to local attractions and much more!!!

Monday to Friday from 9am to 5pm – and you can drop your children off from 8.30am and pick up until 5.30pm. The first two weeks are now fully booked space is still available from 1st August – 5th August and 8th August – 12th August.

Please call Westwoods on 0131 332 5777 or visit our website: www.westwoodshealthclub.com or e-mail westwoods@fettes.com

summer drama workshops with the aCtinG sCene Star Wars, Glee, Musical Theatre and David Walliams Courses available.

Make the holidays even more fun with a Performance Experience from The Acting Scene.

Banish the familiar school holiday cry of "I'm bored" with our unique courses/workshops. A series of fun and exciting workshops for 5-15 year olds exploring a range of theatre skills. Whether you're child is an experienced performer or new to drama, we aim to facilitate the creative ideas of every child irrespective of ability.

Run by industry professionals who have worked for the Royal Lyceum Theatre, RSC, Kings Theatre, Palladium, BBC, & STV. Check out Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/TheActingScene/ 1st - 5th, 8th - 12th or 15th - 19th August P1-P3 9.30 - 12.30 P4 + 9.30 - 4.30 Wrap-Around-Care Available Venue: The Edinburgh Academy Jnr School, 10 Arboretum Road, EH3 5PL Book at www.theactingscene.co.uk or info@theactingscene.co.uk

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Summer Camps, Classes & Activities staGeCoaCh Stagecoach Edinburgh's Summer holiday workshops are a whirlwind, jam-packed week of drama, dance and singing - all culminating in a fantastic show - complete with costumes and lighting. Taking place at Dance Base in the Grassmarket, our junior school (aged 4-6yrs) is filled with games, fun and lots of energy as the children make new friends, learn new skills and create a show for family and friends. Our senior school is aimed at Children aged 6-18 (split into 3 age groups) and they will experience the process of casting, rehearsing and performing. Working with a professional team of directors, choreographers and singers, they will develop confidence and skills in several memorable and inspiring days.

To book a place, complete our online application form at www.stagecoach.co.uk/Edinburgh or call us on 0131 610 0636.

Cost: £75 for the week. For further information please phone 07739874565.

tumble tots Tumble Tots are running Summer Play Schemes for children from 3 to 7 years at Cluny Centre, Morningside.

The children can be left in our care for the two and a half hours. They will play for an hour on the equipment, and enjoy a healthy snack. Then they will spend time playing with arts and crafts, brio, jigsaws and play dough, finishing off with the parachute. All for £11.50 Morning sessions 10am to 12.30pm on Monday 11th, Friday 15th, Monday 25th and Friday 29th July. And 2 afternoon session 1.30 to 4pm on Tuesday 12th and Friday 26th July. We accept Edenred, Kiddivouchers and Sodexo Childcare Vouchers.

Please call Jo on 01875 819966 for more information and to book or email Jo on joletelier.lobos@virgin.net

wee repliCators Wee Replicators offers 3D printing clubs, workshops and birthday parties for kids and adults. We do these in a variety of places but can also come to your private clubs/organisations/venues/homes all year round as well as for holiday programmes.

We are excited to launch our week long summer courses. These are designed to be engaging and fun for kids but also educational. Numbers are limited to 10 per course to ensure that each child gets adequate guidance and support so do book as soon as possible to secure your space.

11th-15th July Edinburgh Napier University (Merchiston) 9am-12 Android App Design and Development £60 1-4pm Stop-motion animation with 3D printing £60 (Bring a packed lunch and do both courses for £100) 18th-22nd July Currie High School 9am-12 Stop-motion animation with 3D printing £60 1st-5th August Potter Around (Kirknewton) 10.30-12 Android App Design and Development (£12 per day or £50 for the week) Contact us through our website www.weereplicators.com or email us at weereplicators@gmail.com.

aCtivator holiday Camps Running all over the city all through the summer! Our popular Activator Holiday Camps have been designed to keep primary school kids happy and active throughout their time with us. With sports, games, arts, crafts and more kids have a fantastic time with us.

Go to edinburghleisure.co.uk for more information.

Aquatics Activity Camp at the Royal Commonwealth Pool This exciting water-based holiday camp for children aged 9 – 14 years is running again at the Royal Commonwealth Pool this summer. Focusing on aquatics but with some land based fun as well, everyone will have an amazing time whilst working towards recognised Scottish Swimming and Royal Life Saving Society awards.

Contact the Royal Commonwealth Pool on 0131 667 7211 or go to edinburghleisure.co.uk.

Tennis Coaching in the Holidays We've got some great tennis classes and camps lined up at Craiglockhart Leisure and Tennis Centre and at The Meadows this Summer. Call 0131 4430101 or go to edinburghleisure.co.uk for more information.

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Out&About

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

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

JULY

JUNE Until 11 September surreal adventures Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art, Mod 1 ©Alicia Bruce

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

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

Open daily 10am-4.45pm (during August 10am-5.45) Free, drop-in.

Welcome to Surreal Adventures, a world that seems to disobey the laws of physics! Wander through distorted doorways, slide down a famous artwork, sit at our warped table and put yourself in a surreal picture frame. Supported by the Friends of the National Galleries of Scotland.

1 July Join in Edinburgh Leisure is offering the chance for children to try out a variety of sports and games in the Meadows.

American Football, tennis, football, gymnastics and cycling will also be available for youngsters to try as well as football speed shot, tug of war, volleyball and much more. Sport experts will also be present to help them get the most out of their day in the beautiful green setting of the Meadows.

Drop in 1 - 4pm.

1 - 8 July edinburgh international magic Festival www.magicfest.co.uk This summer lose yourself in magic with a secret magic workshops, shows that will rock your socks off and hilarious comedy conjuring at the 7th Edinburgh International Magic Festival.

The Festival opens with a brand new event - MagicFair on the 1st July at Summerhall where you jump into a carnival of live shows, magic and circus shops, a ribbon maze – plan your own adventure and chose from up to 10 different events. Under 6s go free to the morning session.

With more magicians than ever before, lose yourself in magic at the Edinburgh International Magic Festival. ©Rob McDougall

25 June - 22 August nibblers & dibblers Almond Valley Heritage Centre, Millfield, Livingston, West Lothian, EH54 7AR. Daily from Saturday 25th June until Monday 22nd August

Head for the vegetable patch this summer, and experience the joys of planting and seeding, watering and weeding down in the kitchen garden. Discover the secrets of the super-fresh fruit and vegetables that are grown to supply our tearoom, and join in with the fun of tending the crops.

All of the family will enjoy the Dibbler and Nibbler sessions that take place at Almond Valley every day throughout the school holidays. Based in the discovery tent beside the polytunnel, the informal drop-in workshops combine some simple gardening tasks with a range of food and farmrelated crafts, trails and games suitable for children of all ages. Sessions take place between 1.30 and 2.30 each day, and there’s no need to book in advance.

26 June anatomy minis 2pm. Summerhall.

Weird green things are growing outside! Green plants and grinning robots are coming for a visit, with bizarre tales and swampy music. Will you come to hear what strange things they have to say? Will you join in the amazing dance of the friendly smog beasts and the beautiful swamp magic?

Tickets are £5 per adult, with up to two children attending free per adult.

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1 July - 14 August take Flight at the scottish seabird Centre The Scottish Seabird Centre is exploring the wonders of flight. Captain Flap has crash landed his plane, Puffin One! He needs to learn the principles of flight so that he can repair his plane. Will he make it home? Find out during this interactive science show by the North Berwick seaside.

Not only that but there will be a whole host of Seaside Science Flying Fun interactive activities on throughout the week. There will be science experiments, fizzy bottle rockets plus the chance to create kites and paper aeroplanes.

Captain Flap Flies Forth is on from Friday 1 July to Sunday 14 August, Friday to Sunday, at 14:00.

Seaside Science Flying Fun is on from Monday 4 July to Sunday 11 August, Monday to Thursday 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. www.seabird.org Saturday 2 July surrealist saturday Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art 1-4pm. Free, drop-in. For ages 2 - 12 Join storytelling duo Louna Productions for a Surrealist Spectacular! Listen to tales about awesome artists and explore the exhibition in a fun and interactive way. You can also try surreal costume making. Explore our outdoor world: Surreal Adventures and become a surreal collector using our trail. You can also catch Louna Productions at the Gallery of Modern Art on Sunday the 28th of August at our Surrealist Storytelling.

Out&About

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

Saturday 2 July in the Jungle The Scottish Storytelling Centre, 43 - 45 High Street, Edinburgh, EH1 1SR

45mins. £6 per child. 10am & 2.15pm (0-2yrs) Puppets Sam & Rosie are off on their holidays. Pack up your suitcase with them and journey across the Ocean to the Jungle... Sam's pet frog comes too, but escapes – oh no!

What animals will we see on our adventure to rescue him?

Lots of well-known songs and rhymes for little ones.

Saturday 2 July princesses & knights The Scottish Storytelling Centre, 43 - 45 High Street, Edinburgh, EH1 1SR 11.15am & 1pm (3-6yrs). Let’s turn a traditional tale on its head. We'll keep the dragon, the wicked wizard and the good fairy of course, but how about the frog princess and our heroine Rosie galloping across the magical kingdom to rescue the ensnared sleeping Knight Sam? Solve the riddles, sing the songs and play the games to help rescue the Knight!

2 - 3 July magicFair A hidden magician’s workshop, illusions that will rock your socks off, hilarious comedy conjuring and freaky mind reading.

Lose yourself in the full spectrum of magic performances in a brand new multi-space experience, in the maze-like venue of Summerhall.

Live magic shows, magic and circus shop, ribbon maze, workshops, open air courtyard with close-up magic, comedy, illusions, sleight of hand… all with one ticket for up to 4 hours.

Entry to MagicFair will allow you to plan your own magic adventure, meaning you can pack more magic into your day or just rock up and see where your mood takes you.

Under 6s go free to the family orientated morning session featuring Magic School taster workshops, crafts, treasure hunts, and six different live shows happening in every crook and cranny around the site.

Family friendly session 10am – 2pm. Tickets £12/£10 cons £7 child/under 6s go free For tickets and full programme of events go to www.magicfest.co.uk or call 0131 226 0006 2 - 3 July spa in the City St Andrew Square Garden will transform into an urban escape where city goers can relax and discover the hottest new trends and treatments, must-have products and in-theknow experts parting with top tips and advice.

Every Sunday sunday Funday The Yard, 22 Eyre Place Lane, Edinburgh, EH3 5EH Looking for something different to do with the kids on a Sunday? Then pop down to The Yard and play in our fantastic adventure playground, get messy in our art room, roll about on the soft play, build a castle in the sandpit or just get outside and run around. Check website for times / £5

3 July 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 Sunday 3 July art explorers: rain Forest orchestra The Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh, 20A Inverleith Row, Edinburgh, EH3 5LR 1.00 pm - 4.00 pm, Real Life Science Studio, John Hope Gateway , No booking required, Age 3+, (£3 on the door).

Be inspired to make your own work of art as we explore the beauty of the Garden using a wide range of colourful and tactile materials. Create rain sticks and shakers from amazing plant materials. With Greengage Arts 4 July 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. Tour: Taylor Wessing Photographic Portrait Prize. 9.30am - 12pm 4 - 7 July Crafty Celts National Museum of Scotland, Chambers Street, Edinburgh, EH1 1JF 12:00-16:00. Free (drop-in). Handle some amazing Celtic objects, and make a carnyx hand puppet or some ancient accessories.

Supported by players of the Peoples Postcode Lottery

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Out&About

Further details on events list

6 July erin, errol and the earth Creatures The Scottish Storytelling Centre, 43 - 45 High Street, Edinburgh, EH1 1SR 11am (1hr). £6 per child for ages 5+.

Stories, songs, recycled craft activities and puppets! Meet the woman who lives by the dump; hear her strange tales of the earth and the people who live on it. If you help her to help the earth creatures, you might get to meet the rubbish dump pixies. This workshop explores the themes of Modest Predicament’s new show.

8 July new Galleries opening National Museum of Scotland, Chambers Street, Edinburgh, EH1 1JF 10:00-17:00. Free (drop-in). Join us to celebrate the unveiling of ten new galleries at the National Museum of Scotland, and be amongst the first to enjoy your transformed museum.

From the oldest aircraft in Britain and ceramic works by Picasso, to a 3D print of a human brain and a metal dress by Paco Rabanne, the new galleries will showcase excellence and innovation in decorative art, design, fashion, science and technology.

8th July magicFest Gala 2.30pm (matinee) & 7.30pm at The Festival Theatre, Edinburgh Ages 5+ Tickets £14 - £33 www.magicfest.co.uk The best magicians from around the globe, mind-blowing illusionists and adventurous variety acts will take to the stage in Edinburgh’s iconic Festival Theatre to amaze and inspire you for two and a half hours for the close of MagicFest on the 8th July.

There's nothing quite like seeing magic live, close up, with no screens, Hollywood effects or fancy TV editing getting in the way of something beautifully impossible. Get swept away in a world of magnificent magic tricks and let the mystery and wonder wash over you.

Korea, Germany, Spain, Scotland – the Gala features the world’s most creative and imaginative magical talent mixing funny and heart-warming acts with thrilling and skilful tricks, always performed with forensic attention to detail.

8 & 9 July artsparks Jupiter Artland, Bonnington House Steadings, Edinburgh, EH27 Artsparks sessions for ages 3-5 are made up of fun and messy art and craft activities and plenty of outdoor play in the wonderful Jupiter environment. Sessions can be purchased in blocks with a discount. 1 session £10, 2 sessions £27 and 8 sessions £64 10am - 12pm 8 July kamishibal: Craft and stories The Scottish Storytelling Centre, 43 - 45 High Street, Edinburgh, EH1 1SR 2pm (1hr 30) £8 per child ( 3+) Kamishibai storytelling is a form of Japanese storyboard theatre were the tale is told by changing illustrated panels. Join Fergus McNicol and Mio Shapley for a fun afternoon of stories and the chance to create your own illustrations with artist Marie-Alice Harel. Ticket price includes craft materials.

8 July artsparks Fridays Jupiter Artland, Bonnington House Steadings, Edinburgh, EH27 Artsparks Fridays run every Friday afternoon over the summer holidays for ages 5-12. These 2 hour sessions are packed full of messy indoor and outdoor art activities taking on a different artwork theme each week.

Every Friday from 8 July- 26 Aug 1.30-3.30pm 8 - 10 July history happenings National Museum of Scotland, Chambers Street, Edinburgh, EH1 1JF 11:00-13:00, 14:00-16:00. Free (drop-in). Step back in time and encounter everyday characters from history, inspired by our new galleries. A suffragette with her invaluable bicycle, a weaver getting to grips with new technology in 1816 and a 1960s department store worker who dreams of designer fashion - who will you meet?

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Out&About

ed can be found at www.familiesonline.co.uk including any contact or further booking information.

8 - 31 July sci-art summer National Museum of Scotland, Chambers Street, Edinburgh, EH1 1JF 12 - 4pm Free (drop in). Come and explore our fantastic new Science & Technology and Art & Design galleries! Take part in craft activities, enjoy live demonstrations and displays and meet some interesting characters.

9 July wee treasures The Scottish National Portrait Gallery, 1 Queen Street, Edinburgh, EH2 1JD Join us for storytelling for early years children and their families inspired by a different portrait each month, and delve into our magic treasure chest to find out what the story will be. Places limited, sign up on the day. For ages 2 - 4. 10.30am & 11.30am / Free. Drop in.

10 July 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 Sunday 10 July batik panels 11am - 3pm. £6 per person. Join Margaret Findlay at Lauriston Castle and experiment with the wonderful free technique of batik. Paint with hot wax and bright dyes to create wonderful ethnic patterns and pictures. We will also decorate our pictures with beautiful ribbons and embellishments and frame our favourite work at the end of the day. Bring a picnic lunch. Ages 6+.

Booking essential.

Online: Go to usherhall.co.uk By phone - 0131 228 1155 (Opening hours: Monday Saturday 10am-5.30pm) In person - Box Office, Usher Hall, Lothian Road, EH1 2EA (Opening hours: Monday - Saturday 10am-5.30pm)

The Weird and the Wonderful

Monday 11 July Colourful Collograph printing workshop 10.30am - 12.30pm. £4 per person Take inspiration from the beautiful grounds of Lauriston to create your own colourful prints by building up a range of textures and materials. Ages 5+ with Bragela Hornal.

Booking essential (see 10 July for booking info)

17 July 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

12 July tiny tales: shake your tiny tales The Scottish Storytelling Centre, 43 - 45 High Street, Edinburgh, EH1 1SR Fergus McNicol leads a morning of stories and dancing for little ones! Bring some energy and be ready for some fun!

Please book in advance. For ages 1 - 3yrs. 10am & 11.30am (40mins). £5 per child

17 July a dogs day out Traquair House, Innerleithen, Peebleshire, EH44 www.traquair.co.uk A day out for dogs and their owners. Bring your dog along for some fun activities, competitions, displays and demos as well as doggy treats and organised walks.

12 July – Friday 2 September summer at the palace Explore Holyroodhouse with a range of activity trails, visit our new Family Pavilion in the Palace Gardens and help us celebrate Her Majesty The Queen's 90th Birthday with special activities and our Royal Explorer backpack.

The Weird and the Wonderful: Every Tuesdays at 11:00 and 15:00 Find out about some of the stranger objects from the Royal Collection that decorate The Queen's official homes Holyroodhouse, Buckingham Palace and Windsor Castle Family Garden Party Tours: Every Thursday at 11:00, 12:00 and 14:00 The Queen invites 8,000 people to her annual garden party.

Find out how the gardeners get ready, learn about the people who guard Her Majesty, hunt for hidden corgis, dress up and discover what fabulous food is served on the day 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!

15 & 16 July artsparks Jupiter Artland, Bonnington House Steadings, Edinburgh, EH27 Artsparks sessions for ages 3-5 are made up of fun and messy art and craft activities and plenty of outdoor play in the wonderful Jupiter environment. Sessions can be purchased in blocks with a discount. 1 session £10, 2 sessions £27 and 8 sessions £64 10am - 12pm Saturday 16 July big butterfly Count The Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh, 20A Inverleith Row, Edinburgh, EH3 5LR Real Life Science Studio, John Hope Gateway Building, Drop in activities, with sign up for walks on the day., All ages, children on walks must be accompanied by an adult., (Free) Butterfly Conservation launches its annual ‘Big Butterfly Count' this week, so come along and join a guided walk around the Garden in search of butterflies. Learn how to attract butterflies to your own garden and identify the species you see with a free butterfly identification guide.

Guided walks with Butterfly Conservation will depart from the John Hope Gateway reception at 11am and 1pm.

Sunday 17 July magic painted light Catchers With Mike Durnan at Lauriston Castle.

10.30am - 12.30pm £4 per person. Tour the Castle in order to take inspiration from the stained glass windows within, then decorate your very own panel using colourful paints and pens. Watch as the sunlight reveals something truly magical.

Booking essential (see July 10th for booking info).

17 July edinburgh Festival Carnival www.edinburghjazzfestival.com As part of this year’s Edinburgh Jazz Festival you can see giant puppets, exotic sounds, bright costumes and street performances.

2.30pm – Parade from The Mound to the West End of Princess Street 2.30-5pm – Performances in Princess Street, Princess Street Gardens, Grassmarket Music, dance, costumes, circus acrobats, puppetry from all over the world!

18 July - 14 August strange lands and peculiar places For ages 2-12 at Scottish National Gallery.

2-4.30pm. Free, drop-in

Don’t dilly Dalí; find your way to our studio this summer at the National Gallery. Inspired by two exhibitions Inspiring Impressionism and Surreal Encounters | Collecting the Marvellous come along and try your hand at activities for all the family. Play Exquisite Landscape and watch fantastic landscapes appear before your eyes, try drawing en plein air, learn the surrealist technique of automatic drawing and add to an ever-changing 3D landscape

Summer at the Palace The Palace of Holyroodhouse Tuesday 12 July – Friday 2 September

Family Garden Party Tours

Every Tuesdays at 11:00 and 15:00

Every Thursday at 11:00, 12:00 and 14:00

Find out about some of the stranger objects from the Royal Collection that decorate The Queen's official homes.

Interactive family tours around the Palace Gardens. Find out how the gardeners get ready, learn about the people who guard Her Majesty, hunt for hidden corgis and much more!

COME BACK FOR FREE! Get your ticket stamped on your first visit and come back as many times as you like at no extra cost!

For full details of events and dates visit

www.royalcollection.org.uk/whatson © Royal Collection Trust/ copyright Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth 2016. Photographer David Cheskins

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Out&About 22 July artsparks Jupiter Artland, Bonnington House Steadings, Edinburgh, EH27 Artsparks sessions for ages 3-5 are made up of fun and messy art and craft activities and plenty of outdoor play in the wonderful Jupiter environment. Sessions can be purchased in blocks with a discount. 1 session £10, 2 sessions £27 and 8 sessions £64 10am - 12pm Every Friday until 26 August

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

AUGUST 1 - 7 August Crafty Celts National Museum of Scotland, Chambers Street, Edinburgh, EH1 1JF

24 July seize a senior Inverleith Park. 10.30 – 12.30 Grand opening of fitness equipment for the mature mover.

Entertainment, games, music and much more!

Come along to this free event, see what Inverleith Park has to offer. For all kids, bring along a bus pass carrying adult and receive a free gift (while stocks last) 28 July - 28 August explorers Pick up an Edinburgh Art Festival Explorers map from the Dazzle Hub or participating galleries. In this guide you will find full listings of workshops and activity stations for children of all ages as well as a free fun and interactive activity trail.

Explorers Libraries Explorers will run a summer school of arts workshops for all ages inspired by the theme of Monuments in Edinburgh Libraries across the city every Wednesday in the summer holidays.

Project Dazzle Project Dazzle invites your mini artists to become dazzle designers at our special Dazzle hub located within Ocean Terminal. Drop in arts activities will be available Friday to Sunday and every Thursday will be dazzle workshops for families and under 5s in the morning and ages 5-12 in the afternoon.

For more times and details visit edinburghartfestival.com

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12:00-16:00. Free (drop-in). Handle some amazing Celtic objects, and make a carnyx hand puppet or some ancient accessories.

5 - 29 August the edinburgh Festival Fringe www.edfringe.com The largest arts festival in the world!

See our Fringe for Kids feature starting on page 16 6th August surreal adventures - Family day Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art, Mod 1 1-4pm. Free, drop-in. Enjoy a Surreal Adventure at Modern One. Our family day on the 6th of August will be full of activities and entertainment for children and grownups. Play surreal games, join in storytelling sessions, watch marvellous circus performers and become a surreal collector using our trail. Picnic Lunches will be available from the café to enjoy in the sculpture garden.

6th August and 27th Family den building Jupiter Artland, Bonnington House Steadings, Edinburgh, EH27 1.30 to 4.30. Returning for 2016 families will design and build their own shelter out of natural materials foraged from around the artland. The afternoon will finish with fire building and marshmallow toasting.

Adult £15, Child (under 16s) £10, Family discount (2 adults/2 children) £45 Sunday 7 August art explorers: the wonder of nepal The Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh, 20A Inverleith Row, Edinburgh, EH3 5LR 1.00 pm - 4.00 pm, Real Life Science Studio, John Hope Gateway , No booking required, Age 3+, (£3 on the door) Be inspired to make your own work of art as we explore the beauty of the Garden using a wide range of colourful and tactile materials. Explore the flowers of Nepal through printing and paper craft and make your own garland to celebrate summer. With Greengage Arts

Out&About

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

13 - 29 August edinburgh international book Festival This summer the Edinburgh International Book Festival is encouraging young people to Imagine Better. And there will be plenty on offer to get those brain cells stimulated…

A leading showcase for children’s writers and illustrators, the Book Festival will once again create a magical, familyfriendly village of tents and walkways, theatres, cafés and bookshops in the heart of Edinburgh City Centre, where everyone from tiny tots to older teens can enjoy the wonderful Festival atmosphere with an ice cream or a slice of cake.

This year’s Book Festival will feature a huge array of fun and inventive activities, including workshops, storytelling, book signings, and lively discussions bringing together top writers to chat about the topics that matter to young people.

With over 200 events, there will be something to exercise every young person’s imagination – from picture books to performance, fantasy fiction to tales of finding yourself.

Book online at www.edbookfest.co.uk or by phone 0845 373 5888. Tickets are £5 for most children’s events, and there are a number of daily free events.

August 13th Family artsparks Jupiter Artland, Bonnington House Steadings, Edinburgh, EH27 Create your own family nature sculptures in the Jupiter Artland woods. 1.30 -4.30 This workshop will invite the whole family to work as a team to build large scale outdoor nature sculptures inspired by the ever-popular artist Andy Goldsworthy.

Adult £15, Child (under 16s) £10, Family discount (2 adults/2 children) £45 Monday 15 August pirate treasure hunt 10.30am - 12.30pm. £4 per person. Ahoy me hearties!

Have our pirate hat, cutlass and parrot at the ready then out into the woods with a secret map to guiding you through the grounds to find hidden treasure. Afterwards you decorate your very own mini treasure chest. With Mike Durnan. At Lauriston Castle. Booking essential. (See July 10th for booking info).

August 20th Family woodland artsparks Jupiter Artland, Bonnington House Steadings, Edinburgh, EH27 1.30 to 4.30. Get back to nature with this Forest School family afternoon - there will be woodland games to keep energies high, woodcraft using tools ranging from whittling to drilling and outdoor art making natural paint from woodland dyes. Each family will get to build their very own fire pit and create their own fire to toast marshmallows and warm hot chocolate.

Adult £15, Child (under 16s) £10, Family discount (2 adults/2 children) £45 21 August Family Fun day National Mining Museum, Lady Victoria Colliery, Newtongrange

24 - 28 August Glass life event The Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh, 20A Inverleith Row, Edinburgh, EH3 5LR 12.00 noon - 4.30 pm, Glasshouses, No booking required, (Free) Get hands on with free cell science activities and meet researchers from the Welcome Trust Centre for Cell Biology as part of the Glass Life exhibition depicting the hidden inner workings of living cells.

25 - 28 August edinburgh macmillan art show 2016 Artwork and Jewellery on sale. To be held at Bonhams, 22 Queen Street, Edinburgh EH2 1JX. 25th August 10am-7pm and 26th/27/28th 10am-4pm.

27 August outdoor theatre Inveresk Lodge Gardens Enjoy Beatrix Potter’s tales at 3pm with Once Upon A Time There Were Four Little Rabbits followed by Shakespeare’s The Tempest at 7pm. The beautiful surroundings of the National Trust for Scotland property in Inveresk, Musselburgh, is idea for outdoor theatre. Bookers should dress for the weather and bring rugs or low backed chairs to sit on.

Tickets for outdoor theatre can be booked from The Brunton box office on 0131 665 2240 / thebrunton.co.uk Sunday 28 August surreal storytelling Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art, MOD 1 2pm & 3pm (45 mins). For ages 4 - 12. Free, drop-in Join storytelling duo Louna Productions for a Surrealist Spectacular! Listen to tales about awesome artists and explore the exhibition in a fun and interactive way.

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