Families Edinburgh issue 68 Sep/Oct 2011

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ISSUE 68 September/ October 2011

Artistic Director Julie Mitchell, LRAD, ARAD, AISTD Examiner of The Royal Academy of Dance

EDINBURGH DANCE ACADEMY Branches throughout Edinburgh and East Lothian

EDINBURGH DANCE ACADEMY Edinburgh's Premier Dance School * Ballet * Jazz * Modern * Tap * Drama * Singing A caring environment where pupils achieve their highest potential.

See us in the Pantomime at The Kings Theatre.

EXAM RESULTS 100% PASS RATE

0131 337 3402

SOCATOTS BIRTHDAY PARTIES FOR AGES 1-5

call Socatots on 07923 005534 or www.socatots.com/edinburgh&elothian j.smith@socatots.com

© www.mamasandpapas.com

www.edinburghdanceacademy.co.uk 4-6 Coltbridge Ave, Edinburgh, EH12 6AH

The popular football programme for children Ages 6 months - 5 years Venues in Edinburgh and East Lothian.

Book your free trial and/or block booking now!

www.familiesedinburgh.co.uk

Email - editor@familiesedinburgh.co.uk

Tel. 0131 622 0405

Edinburgh’s Gaelic Playgroups Cròileagan are parent and toddler groups aimed at children aged 0-4 years. A play leader organises activities such as crafts, games, stories and songs, all in simple Gaelic. There is no need for participants to have any previous knowledge of Gaelic. Groups run during the school term.

Corstorphine Youth Centre Leith Community Education Centre, New Kirkgate

Tollcross Community Centre

Mon 10.00am-12.30pm Tues 9.30am-11.25am Wed and Fri 9.30am-11.30am

For more information about Cròileagan in Edinburgh, contact: Norma Martin (Gaelic Development Officer) 0131 529 2415 norma.martin@edinburgh.gov.uk or email each group direct: croileagancorstorphine@hotmail.co.uk croileagantollcross@hotmail.co.uk with assistance from croileaganleith@hotmail.co.uk Bòrd na Gàidhlig.

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What’sInside... news&views me&i 3–7 8–9 10 – 17 18 19

News and Views Clubs and Classes Listings Clubs and Classes News Helping Your Child To Read By Karen Beveridge Helping Your Child With Numbers

By Jane W. Oliver

20 – 25 22 – 25 26 27 27 28

Choosing An Independent School Independent School News Other School News Eyecare for Children By Clare Downes Dental Q + A By Bite Dentistry Think Outside The Lunchbox

By Food Monsters

29

Recipe for Mini Cheese Quiche

By Annabel Karmel

30 – 31 Your Paternity Leave Questions

By Carrie Mitchell, Morton Fraser

32 Mother’s Guilt By Abi Foss Parent to Parent 33 34 – 39 Out and About Contact Information: Editor: sarah Adair 0131 622 0405 editor@familiesedinburgh.co.uk Follow us on twitter @familiesedinbur Remember to check on line www.familiesedinburgh.co.uk for all the latest news, offers, competitions, reviews and events.

me&i, a gorgeous range of kids clothes from Sweden has recently been launched in the UK. The brand was founded by two Swedish mums in 2004 and their clothes represent Swedish design at its best – high quality, funky colours and cool prints and they are really comfortable to wear. All the clothes are tried and tested by a panel of children for both comfort and looks. me&i makes shopping for children’s clothes a really enjoyable activity. Their clothes are sold exclusively through home parties, saving busy mums both time and effort.

They are now looking for representatives in the local area so if you are thinking about returning to work or just want to change to a job that fits round your family, take a look at the company’s website. Phone: 07725 030 821 Web: www.meandi.eu

Holy Corner Community Playgroup

Gulliver Toys

Located at Holy Corner, the community playgroup has been running for over 25 years.

Holy Corner Community Playgroup: • is for children from 2.5 - 5 years & runs every morning during term time • provides a fun and stimulating environment where children can develop individually and as part of a group • offers a wide variety of activities supporting the Scottish Curriculum for Excellence • is an Edinburgh Council Partner Provider playgroup • operates a waiting list - children can be registered from their 2nd birthday, eligible to start when they are 2.5 years • offers children between 3 - 5 sessions a week For more information, please contact Alison Kirkwood, Playgroup Manager, on t. 0131 228 2768 (term time). We look forward to welcoming you to Holy Corner Community Playgroup!

The Smart Stork in Bruntsfield has changed so much that it has had to change its name to Gullivers Toys and Gifts. With its unique Tricorne hat as a logo it still boasts all your favourite classic toys, clothes and gifts but now has even more to offer with two dedicated rooms, one for small children and one for bigger children (see what they did there). They now also stock popular toys and games like pre school favourite Peppa Pig and school play ground game Moshi Monsters. Whether you shop there regularly or have never visited before now is the time to take a look at what they have to offer.

Labels4kids - for cash Children’s labelling company Labels4Kids are recruiting sales agents. In exchange for a small start up cost, readers who refer friends and family to company’s website can earn money back in commission. You get to show and explain products you like to others who may also benefit from their use, and make some money too. Over the years Labels4Kids has been entered in and won numerous high profile awards, including Online Retailer of the Year in 2010.

As well as ordering kits through the website, customers can read blogs on numerous topics on the latest educational and parents related issues. There is also a Labels4Kids Facebook page where news, discounts offers and news are posted.

For orders, go to www.labels4kids.com/fam To ask about becoming an agent, email sales@labels4kids.com.

Designer: Kenny Dickson

Cover Information: Mamas and Papas Zip Cardigan £22 and Hat and Mitt Set £16 Baby Wear, Lighthouse Keeper, Autumn 2011 www.mamasandpapas.com

Next Issue: November/December Booking deadline October 1st

With summer now over, our thoughts turn to how to keep our children warm, dry and, as a result, happy during the worst of the weather and we’ve got a good answer for you - Funky Rascal. Funky Rascal is a children’s clothing shop with a difference. Focusing on unique, fun, stylish and practical clothing, they stock the largest range of Didriksons children’s outdoor wear in Scotland. Why Didriksons? Well, with owner Anne being Swedish, she went for what she knows and Didriksons has been keeping Scandinavians warm and dry since 1913.

And not only does it work fantastically well but it’s a beautifully designed collection too.

For owners Anne and Graeme Black, with 2 small children of their own, the old maxim “there’s no such thing as the wrong weather, just the wrong clothing” sums up the philosophy behind their choice of outdoor clothing.

This winter they’ll also be stocking a range of ladies’ winter coats, such was the demand from mums last winter when they saw how effective the clothing was for their children. The Autumn/Winter collection has started arriving, so take a look online at www.funkyrascal.co.uk, sign up to their newsletter to keep track of what’s coming in or even better, if you’re anywhere near Fife, make sure to visit their very funky store in Cupar. Call 01334 659 047 for more information

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news&views workmum – balancing work and family life.

Have you been away from the workplace caring for your children? Perhaps you have a child starting school this August? workmum is a new Edinburgh based business that aims to support parents back to work. workmum run return to work courses, that concentrate on helping parents increase their confidence, identify skills and find a new job/career that fits in with their family. We also provide support for parents wanting to change career, work for themselves or simply need help updating their CV. To contact us emailinfor@workmum.co.uk or phone 0131 552 7880 or visit our website www.workmum.co.uk Want to inspire other mums! workmum are also looking for mums who have successfully changed jobs/careers when they have had children. We would like to ask you to share your knowledge and experience (the pitfalls as well as the highs!) and inspire other mums who are considering retraining, becoming self-employed or setting up a business or franchise. workmum are putting together written case studies for use on our courses and website. As well as helping others, this may also be a good opportunity to advertise your business. For more information please email jenny@workmum.co.uk

Temporary Glitter Tattoos - opportunity for stay-at-home Mum’s Meena Sidpa has been traveling to festivals, community events, school fairs and charity events with her temporary glitter tattoos for the last three years. During this time Manai has gathered a small army of Mums around the country, looking to make some extra money replicating Meena’s tried and tested process.

She has developed professional temporary glitter kits “Kids’ skin is young and delicate so products must work with this quality of skin.

All our products comply with EU (and the USA) health and safety regulations. Parents love the fact that they can trust in our product.” Says Meena. The cost of the professional kit is £158 + P&P and comes with 200 small stencils, 175 medium stencils and 10 x 20g pots of glitter, professional brushes and enough glue for the whole kit. Each kit also comes with the Manai getting started booklet full of tips and tricks, marketing ideas and product description. Call Meena to discuss on 07624 482582 or email her info@manai.co.uk – full details can be found on the website www.manai.co.uk

Bonnington House Bonnington House is a brand new nursery opening late 2011 on Newhaven Road in Trinity, Edinburgh. Open Mon-Fri 8am6pm, catering for children aged 3 mths – 5 yrs, The nursery is situated on the edge of Victoria Park in a beautiful Georgian property within a large, secure garden. The building’s interior and garden have been designed to create a spacious and stimulating learning environment that meets the needs of growing children. The nursery is owned and managed by Niki Hendry-Adams, a Primary Teacher for 18 years who has extensive experience in early years education. After completing a Masters Degree in Psychology of Education she decided to combine her knowledge and experience to create a stimulating, child-centred, educational environment that will provide the highest quality nursery provision.

“Our aim at Bonnington House Nursery is to provide young children with the very best start in life through a nurturing environment with responsive care provided by our dedicated and qualified staff team, allowing children to grow, develop and reach their full potential.

Children learn individually and with others through play - our active curriculum supports all aspects of a child’s learning and development and is aligned to the Birth to 3yrs Curriculum and Curriculum for Excellence. It encourages exploration and discovery and children’s natural desire to make sense of the world around them. Through active play and a range of carefully selected activities that build upon each child’s interests, we encourage children to practice and develop ideas, concepts and skills, and nurture a genuine love of learning.”

For further information on Bonnington House Nursery visit www.bonningtonhousenursery.co.uk or contact the Manager at: niki@bonningtonhousenursery.co.uk Tel. 07939 969901

Blossom Tree Children's Nursery Blossom Tree Children’s Nursery is a new and exciting nursery based in Gilmerton, Edinburgh, for children 0 – 5 years. Blossom Tree is a small, comfortable and unique nursery that supports only 19 children - allowing the best possible care, support and development for your child Monday to Friday 08:00 – 18:00. Blossom Tree and its experienced team of staff recognise the importance of good communication and participation links with the child and their family, and place great importance on working closely with them to support each child’s individual development needs. For further information on Blossom Tree Children’s Nursery visit www.blossomtree.org.uk or call us on 0131 664 4944.

Nursery Open Days Saturday 27th August, 11am - 1pm Saturday 24th September, 11am - 1pm

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news&views A dramatic day out!

On a beautiful early summer’s day, Families Scottish editors, with their families, were welcomed to Stirling Castle for a day out with a difference. We were to be taken back into the world of the Scottish Renaissance royal court to experience just what it would have been like to have been part of the royal court in the 1540s.

We were led back in time by a band of costumed interpreters, who took on the roles of everyone from servants and bodyguards, to court officials and noblemen. Indeed leading our group was Mary of Guise herself, the widow of James V who had built the palace but who had died in 1542 just after it was completed. Their daughter, the famed Mary Queen of Scots was raised there. The girls in our group really took to the Queen with her love of fine costumes and pearls. Equally, the boys enjoyed a fencing lesson from the male bodyguards and found their jokes about royal etiquette most amusing.

The highlight of our tour was a privileged look around the recently unveiled six newly restored royal apartments. Here, we wondered at the magnificently painted ceilings with, impressive coats of arms on the walls, and trompe l’oeil effects. We also marvelled at the Stirling Tapestries, a recreation of one of the world’s finest set of medieval tapestries. Yet another must see included the Stirling Heads. These are magnificent 16th-century, metrewide oak medallions, which were hand-carved with depictions of kings, queens, emperors, courtiers and mythical heroes – now on permanent public display.

After the tour, we had a browse in the lovely gift shop which was packed with plenty of affordable mementoes. The day for us, ended as all such visits should, in the cafe. The Unicorn Cafe, is a must see. Set in the ramparts, on a clear day you can see for miles in any direction, and whilst sipping your latte, you can truly see why this site was picked as the best place for miles around from which to defend a kingdom.

Quick facts Entry cost: £13 for adults, £10 for concessions and £6.50 for children.

Members of Historic Scotland Members FREE Guided tours: FREE guided tour or free audio tour of the castle – in 6 languages.

Further info: www.stirlingcastle.gov.uk FREE enewsletter www.stirlingcastle.gov.uk/home/newsevents/newsletter

BIG EARS, LITTLE EARS The Scottish Chamber Orchestra is launching a pilot series of concerts – Big Ears, Little Ears – for parents and young babies across central Scotland this September, providing mums, dads and carers with the chance to share the experience of high quality live music with their infants in an informal atmosphere.

The concerts will be of a baby-friendly, 45 minute duration, starting at 11am, and take place in Glasgow, Edinburgh and Stirling between 27 – 29 September. The programme of music – performed live by the Orchestra – includes well-known classics by Mendelssohn, Prokofiev and Beethoven as well as traditional Scottish folksongs and lullabies performed by popular Scottish mezzo soprano Karen Cargill. Tickets cost £6 for a parent with a child aged 18 months or younger.

Louise Martin, SCO Connect Projects Manager, said “We wanted to offer something really exciting and unique for new parents, a group who too often find that events they might previously have enjoyed or tried out aren’t open to them when they have a young baby in tow. This will be a proper grown-up treat, a stunning professional performance of inspirational orchestral music; but one at which their baby – complete with the usual baby crying, burps and gurgles – will be welcomed just as warmly. No-one will have to worry about being ‘the one with the baby’ because all the audience will be in the same boat.”

Tuesday 27 September 11am Glasgow St Andrews in the Square Wednesday 28 September 11am Edinburgh Queen’s Hall Thursday 29 September 11am Stirling macrobert £6 Adult with one baby (18 months and under), £5 additional adults, children over 18 months Queen’s Hall Box Office, tel 0131 668 2019 www.thequeenshall.net

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news&views BACK TO SCHOOL…….

The coat to last all seasons Polarn O. Pyret of Sweden have cracked the dilemma for parents everywhere this autumn. The coat solution that can handle warm, windy, raining, snowing and freezing. How? Flexible, lightweight, high-tec layers that are waterproof, windproof and most importantly for active children…breathable The windproof, water resistant soft fleece jacket fixes into the shell jacket when winter weather arrives. The thumbholes stop sleeves riding up…and kids just love these!

Our philosophy has not changed for over 35 years – children need clothes they can play in and parents need hard wearing coats that look good, feel good and will last all year from September through to summer showers. www.polarnopyret.co.uk Scotland Jenners Edinburgh | House of Fraser Glasgow See page 38 for 10% off. Terms and conditions apply

Discovering just one place for all your fertility, pregnancy, baby and child health needs is really handy! If you are looking for a calm and sweetsmelling oasis, with professional therapists and well trained teachers, where you can have a one-to-one session or join a class, The Healthy Life Centre on Edinburgh’s Bread Street is it. Focusing on client centred work, teaching and supporting natural breathing, and using complementary medicine for a wide range of symptoms, this special parent and child service gives you the attention you deserve, ensuring you find what you need for a healthy pregnancy and post natal period. Many of us look for natural ways to nurture ourselves and our babies and children, and we enjoy sharing our experiences with other parents. We seek places where we can pop in and get help in an emergency situation, as well as rest more quietly and listen to our body with an energising cup of green tea amongst people who understand and are keen to listen. With baby changing, child table and toys, and plenty of space for prams and buggies, The Healthy Life Centre is a city centre venue just off Lothian Road, offering an array of therapies (acupuncture and oriental herbs, homoeopathy, shiatsu, massage, Craniosacral, hypnotherapy), as well as classes for the pregnant mother (pilates, HypnoBirthing, yoga) and for babies and children (massage, shiatsu, yoga). For a friendly welcome, pop into 35-37 Bread Street, Edinburgh, EH3 9AL. You can also visit www.thehealthylifecentre.com or phone 0131 229 0724.

Happy 1st Birthday Weekend – 1st and 2nd October 2011 Can it really be a year already! To celebrate their first Birthday, Honeypot Ceramics will be giving away free cake all weekend for everyone coming into the studio... so pop in and say hello 0131-333-6348 www.honeypotceramics.com

Enjoy a fantastic family day out at LovePets Scotland LovePets Scotland is the essential show for pet lovers young and old and makes its debut at the Royal Highland Centre, Edinburgh on 3-4 September 2011. The event, the first Scottish multi-pet show, will appeal to people and families who are passionate about their pets, from dogs and cats to reptiles and furries. There will be a wealth of animals under one roof to see, touch and interact with. Come and meet experts from the pet industry, talk to them about your pets, get useful tips and advice; and browse the array of products on sale.

LovePets Scotland 2011, sponsored by Braid Vets, is the ideal show to visit for a great day out with a top class range of presentations, demonstrations and entertainment taking place inside the main arena and hall. Kate & Gin of Britain’s Got Talent fame will be performing routines with dancing dogs on both days.

You can also meet Hedwig and Errol, the Harry Potter owls, giant rabbits, Shetland ponies, sphynx cats and lots of exciting reptiles. This is a family event not to be missed! For more information, or to book tickets, visit the Edinburgh page at www.lovepets.me.uk.

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news&views Pretty Stylish....

Maternity & Nursingwear specialists Pretty Pregnant launch new collection Catazine (that’s Catalogue/Magazine to those in the know!) which shows off a multitude of on trend prints and nouveau classic pieces set to make it into every stylish maternity wardrobe.

We particularly love the Tina Dress as featured on their cover page!

If you’re on a budget, this season sees the introduction of a capsule collection for those that crave the style but not the bank balance.

Check out the Eloise Cardigan for a subtle way to do leopard print or the Claudia Tank to layer with everything! And with prices starting from as little as £28 you can’t go wrong!

And never being ones to choose style over substance Pretty Pregnant have built on the success of their ‘support team’ service even further by introducing not only home bra fittings and personal shopping appointments but also the influx of expert knowledge now on offer. New Season stock available at Pretty Pregnant, 4 Howe Street Edinburgh from Mid-August. For a home bra fitting appointment contact Gail on 0131 225 9777 Don’t forget their outlet section too with up to 70% off collection items!

The Hermitage The Hermitage is a 22 acre site on the outskirts of Edinburgh. It is a peaceful location boasting a 12-hole golf course designed specifically for young people, a club house with café area, a dance studio and therapy room and a huge opportunity. The golf course occupies half of the site with the rest being uncultivated heathland and gorse; the area is popular with walkers, runners and popular with young people.

AIS have been providing direct support services in Scotland since 2004 offering a range of high quality services to adults with ASC, their families and health professionals. AIS provide purposeful and enjoyable activities for adults with autism throughout the week. The aim of these services is to maximise the use of community facilities, and support service users to develop occupationally fulfilling lifestyles. Recently AIS took control and management of the site through its social enterprise arm, Autism Ventures Scotland and use the site for a wide range of activities and services to support users.

The café has been refurbished and re-opened offering a variety of delicious home baking, lunches and snacks as well as teas and coffee. Work continues to get the golf course back into condition as the centre is attracting interest from schools and young people as well as adults seeking an alternative challenge. After schools clubs, summer golf camps, coaching and club membership are already happening and AIS are hoping to develop further links with other charities as well as golf clubs and is currently forging links with golf’s governing bodies to promote golf to a wider audience. www.hermitagescotland.co.uk hermitage@aiscotland.org.uk 0131 447 5700

Living Fitness Many people see the idea of getting fit and staying fit a challenge too far, whether because of injury, time-pressures or boredom.

However, help is at hand!

Tim Jordan, a qualified Personal Trainer and former Psychologist, runs Living Fitness, a unique Personal Training service based in Edinburgh that provides a new and more effective way to train body and mind. The Living Fitness personalised training plan looks at the whole person to help you get fit, stay fit and improve your sense of wellbeing. As training is carried out in parks, at the beach, in the city, or in your own home, you can learn easy ways to stay fit forever without joining a gym. Furthermore, Tim is qualified to train pregnant women and new mothers, making him a great choice to help you maintain your fitness through pregnancy, or improve your fitness afterwards! For more information, please see the Living Fitness advertisement on page 28 or visit www.living-fitness.co.uk to book your free consultation.

Croileagan Dhun Eideann Croileagan Dhun Eideann (Edinburgh’s Gaelic Playgroups) is delighted to announce the opening of a new Gaelic playgroup in Leith. Croileagan groups have been providing songs, themed craft activities and games through the medium of Gaelic to the 0-4 age group for over 27 years. With increasing numbers of parents recognising the proven benefits of bilingualism and committing to Gaelic Medium Education in Edinburgh, this playgroup offers children in the north of the city a new and exciting learning experience. Existing groups at Tollcross and Corstorphine Community Centres have record numbers of children attending and further development was deemed necessary in the north of the city to match the growing demand. Numbers of children in Gaelic Medium Education in the city are expected to grow further now that the City Council has noted the educational arguments for and have made a commitment to establishing a dedicated Gaelic school in Edinburgh.

For more information email norma.martin@edinburgh.gov.uk or call 0131 529 2415

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clubs&classes

By Robina Cowan

ith the constant wail that schools focus on teaching children to pass tests, adding out of school activities gives your child a chance to shine and have fun outside the classroom. Hobbies lead to new friends, they reveal hidden talents and develop skills that could become a real advantage one day.

Everyone is good at something, and finding it is a huge confidence booster. Just because you drop the ball in PE doesn’t mean you wouldn’t be great at swimming or dancing; the child who isn’t interested in the bright lights can still shine in an arts class or on the sports field.

W

There really is plenty of variety to choose from, as we’ve been finding out. Try our advertisers - they're here because they want you to know about them and will be happy to answer any questions you might have.

For more information all year round, children's activities are also listed on our website www.familiesedinburgh.co.uk/directory.

Practical Considerations While it might seem tempting to guide your child to musical, sporting and artistic genius outside the classroom, they need time for just ‘chilling’ too. Liz Baker is a parent, and also a school teacher. In her view: "there is no point in enrolling in every class going. Don't assume your child will get an academic head start. They will only benefit academically when they are ready, and not before. Remember children get exhausted too - give them time to themselves. Children should choose and be given a taste of each activity before deciding if he or she wants to commit to it long-term - there’s no gain in putting your child under pressure."

Think ahead. You may need to put your child’s name on a waiting list, particularly for more popular classes Stay local. Walking distance is best, otherwise getting there and back becomes another chore Great staff. The best leaders are enthusiastic, skilled, trained, and have eyes in the back of their heads to spot children who need a little more encouragement, particularly when they are new and might feel shy Additional costs. Will you need specialist clothes or equipment? Does the club offer these second-hand? Is there an annual subscription or insurance charge? How much are exam fees?

Look-see. Many clubs offer a free trial class, especially if they run on a term basis. If that’s not possible, ask to pay weekly for the first two sessions Give it time. Some children are prone to dropping out. Unless you think they are completely and utterly unsuited to the activity, or really, really hate it, stick it out for at least a couple of terms.

Music

Theatre arts

Music gives amazing educational and developmental benefits. From just three months, babies actively enjoy music groups, and as soon as they can shake a rattle, they can join in too. Belting out a song teaches rhythm and helps develop speech. Those hand actions you do when you sing nursery rhymes? They boost spatial reasoning, which will later be useful in maths and science. Playing an instrument is great for dexterity and coordination. It teaches teamwork and responsibility, and improves concentration and memory.

Baby Singing / Rainbow Singing 0131 Mini Music Makers 0141 287 2943 476 9228 www.babysinging.co.uk www.nycos.co.uk www.rainbowsinging.co.uk Mini Music Monsters 07717087616 Bethan Hunter (Piano Lessons) Monkey Music 0131 669 6004 07805846107 (Edinburgh South) or 0131 260 9667 Edinburgh Young Musicians. 0131(Edinburgh North/West) 226-3392. www.e-y-m.org.uk www.monkeymusic.com Jack And Jill 0131 667 9664 Music Bugs 0844-822-1156 www.jackandjill-music.co.uk www.musicbugs.co.uk/classes/edinbu rgheast Jo Jingles 0131 620 3282 (East) or 0131 443 4196 Portobello Music School (West) or 01875 616607 (East Lothian) 0131 669 1120 www.jojingles.com www.portobellomusicschool.com Karen Mitchell (Clarinet lessons) St Mary’s Music School 0131 555 0467 or 07932 094768 0131 538 7766 Kindermusik with Ellie 07962678561 Tiny Talk 07904 011014 www.kindermusikwithellie.co.uk www.tinytalk.co.uk Laura Joffe (Piano Lessons) 0131 476 9228 www.justfingers.co.uk

"I like acting and pretending to be someone else and learning songs and dances with my friends," says five-year-old William, who has attended a children's performing arts club for nearly a year. For boosting the confidence of shy or reserved children, drama can't be beaten.

And the skills that a child learns through performing arts classes will stand them in good stead throughout their lives - twenty years down the line, they'll thank you when it comes to addressing a meeting room or chairing a conference.

Performing arts classes are not only for children with starry aspirations. Theatre arts bring literature to life, and build self-confidence. Learning to perform in front of an audience can help children with public speaking; role playing and improvisation give their minds freedom to develop while developing empathy for other people’s feelings.

Edinburgh/Lothians 0131 228 1144 Fife 01383 62 45 99 Central 0845 643 2823

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Acting Out UK 07704 714 607 www.actingoutuk.com Helen O Grady 0131 667 0939 www.helenogrady.co.uk

Sparkle Arts 07717 706 708 www.sparklearts.co.uk The Drama Studio 0131-453-3284 www.thedramastudio.com

Languages Experts agree that the earlier a child starts learning other languages, the better. Children are extremely receptive to new ideas and information, especially when they’re having fun.

Preschool language classes build confidence and familiarity on an instinctive level, typically through songs, dances and simple games. School age children should be more aware of grammar and syntax, and supplementing school lessons with a language club will pay dividends - boosting their confidence, vocabulary and appreciation of different cultures.

Le Petit Monde www.lepetitmonde.co.uk Spanish Amigos 0131 510 0328 www.spanishamigos.co.uk

clubs&classes Arts and Crafts Children love to get messy, and the chance to create their own piece of art is something special. Even the smallest child loves the sensation of clay between fingers, or the thrill of splodging finger paints on paper. Expressing themselves through the arts - whether through painting, drawing, story writing or making 'junk models' - gives children the freedom to unleash their creativity and push boundaries. By providing a balance and a creative outlet, art skills complement and assist literacy and numeracy skills in the classroom. If you’re not artistically inclined yourself, or never have the time to sit down and help your child create a wonderful cushion, collage or clay model, why not leave it to the experts?

Active Bodies Regular exercise is hugely beneficial to long term health and fitness. It’s easy to see the value of activities that help children burn off some energy at the end of the school day, or build skills in sports which they already enjoy at school. Even the tiniest children can benefit from the social side of playing team games, or the fun element of learning a 'solo' sport like trampolining, tennis or diving.

When children are engaged, they pay more attention - 61% of young people claim to be better behaved in PE than other lessons, in most cases simply because they enjoy it more.

This is particularly true amongst boys, and children who admit to misbehaving at school - of whom 73% claim to be better behaved in PE lessons.

Edinburgh Leisure www.edinburghleisure.com Enjoy Leisure www.enjoyleisure.co.uk Fencing Fun www.fencingfun.co.uk Hermitage Golf 0131 447 5700 Little Ninjas 0800 028 9320 www.little-ninjas.co.uk Rugby Tots 0845 313 3252 www.rugbytots.co.uk

Socatots 07923005534 www.socatots.org/edinburgh SwimEasy 0131 466 0764 or 01506 205778 www.swimeasy.co.uk Tumbletots 01875 819966 (Edinburgh East) or 0131 336 1234 (Edinburgh West) Tutti Footy 07791 755472 www.tuttifootyfc.com Waterbabies 0131 554 6682 www.waterbabies.co.uk

Dance Angela Watson School of Dance 0131 661 9590 Ceilidh Kids 0131 667 8898 www.ceilidhkids.com Dance for All 0131 226 5533 www.danceforall.co.uk Dancebase 0131 225 5525 www.dancebase.co.uk

Dynam-nic Dance 07545551271 www.dndance.co.uk Edinburgh Dance Academy 0131 337 3402 www.edinburghdanceacademy.co.uk Lothian Dance Academy 0131 669 9073 The Peacock Academy of Irish Dancing 07525 171 425 Waterfront Dance Studio 07772504958 www.waterfrontdancestudio.co.uk

Five benefits of extra curricular activities 1. Curriculum boosting. After-school activities and clubs are a great way to complement and extend what children have precious little time for at school, especially art, music and languages 2. Socialising. Claire, mother of four under 10 year-olds, believes it is important for children to make new friends outside school: “It really helps them stand on their own and develop their confidence. There isn’t that pecking order thing that you have in the playground. It’s a chance to break out of whatever mould you’ve been cast in”

Doodle and Splat 0794 282 5114 www.doodleandsplat.co.uk Doodles 0131 229 1399 www.doodlesscotland.co.uk Honey Pot Ceramics 0131-333-6348 www.honeypotceramics.com Kids Knit 07963 367314 www.knittingforall.co.uk

Kiss the Fish 0131 332 8912 www.kissthefishstudios.com Messy Munchkins 07876542492 www.messymunchkins.co.uk Potter Around 01506 238961 www.potteraround.co.uk The Ceramic Experience 0131 554 4455 www.theceramicexperience.co.uk The Imagination Workshop 0131 466 0148 www.theimaginationworkshop.co.uk

School support Parents choose out of school academic subjects for their children for a host of reasons perhaps your little one excels in maths and you want to give them more challenging and stimulating tuition - or maybe you simply want to supplement what is being taught at school by introducing the skills needed for independent study and fluency in the subject. Whatever your reason, group or individual tuition can make a huge difference to your child's progress and greatly enhance their school-based studies.

More and more parents are hiring private tutors to give their child the edge when it comes to achieving in class, or practicing and preparing for exams. If your child is bringing home good school reports and is happy and settled, there’s no need; however there’s no longer any stigma in finding extra help if you want to, and the best classes are fun as well as educational.

Explore 0131 332 3300 (Blackhall) or 0131 337 7401 (Murrayfield) www.explorelearning.org.uk Kb-Insights 0783 793 0714 www.kb-insights.co.uk Kip McGrath 0131 610 6110 www.kipmcgrath.co.uk Kumon 0131 466 9235 (Morningside), 0131 669 1699 (Portobello) or 0131 315 3025 (Ravelston) or 01506 884 894 (Currie) or 01875 870 866 (Haddington) www.kumon.co.uk

Margaret Johnstone (English tutor) 07912 363 606 Ravivworks 07512311317 www.ravivworks.co.uk Step Ahead 0131 441 3603 or 01383 624599 www.stepaheadtuition.com Whizzkids 0131 447 5893 www.whizzkids.uk.com

3. After-school care. When both parents work, after-school activities on school premises can be incredibly valuable. Most schools offer a mix of teacher - run and externally organised clubs after school, and even at weekends 4. A sense of achievement. Amanda says: “Kitty, 8, has just reached purple belt and she has been made karate captain. She’s very proud, it’s tremendously good for her.”

5. For all the family. When Patrick started tennis lessons, his parents were inspired to get active too. Mum Maria has joined a tennis club for adult group coaching, and daddy Mike cycles to and from Patrick’s lessons with him.

Fun and educational computer courses throughout the summer holidays

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clubs&classes Knitting For All At Knitting For All, we believe knitting is a fun way of inspiring creativity, whatever your age. Our popular children’s group, Kids Knit starts by making felt topped wooden needles. Then using beautiful, chunky yarns that produce results quickly, we make unique and characterful creations. The skills and complexities gradually increase as we progress through Intermediate, Advanced and Expert levels. The educational benefits of learning to knit are increasingly recognised by educators. But perhaps the best thing they learn is how to follow an idea through and to enjoy having completed it. Knitting is a skill they will have throughout their lives. In the meditation that is the process of knitting, they will find their spirits lifted when they're down, their minds occupied when they're bored, their anxieties calmed. Knit Night for adults and Kids Knit for children in Corstorphine and Marchmont throughout the year.

Corstorphine - Friday Afternoons 2.15 - 3.45 and 4.00 till 5.30. 24 Hillview Terrace. 26th August-14th October - £77.60 Marchmont - Tuesday Afternoons 4.45 till 6.15. The Imagination Workshop, Marchmont Road. 23rd august-11th October - £77.60. www.knittingforall.co.uk email: ruthandkerry@knittingforall.co.uk phone: Kerry: 07943 367314

Fantastic Crafty Fun! Our crafty studio is set up for lots of fun with paint, glitter, decopatch and fabric paint. Open for parties, drop in and holiday clubs.

Find out more at www.theimaginationworkshop.co.uk or call 0131 466 0148 136 Marchmont Road, Edinburgh, EH9 1AQ

Sparkle Arts Classes are designed to help little personalities shine through a fun mix of Expressive Arts.

Through dance, drama and music we encourage creative expression, develop social skills and build confidence. Props such as puppets, dressing up costumes, photographs, educational books, stories and musical instruments help little imaginations blossom.

NEW for this term, by popular demand, Sparkle Arts will be offering Parent & Child classes at the Churchill Theatre. The monthly classes, starting in September, will allow your child to develop their creativity and imagination, while you watch and also join in! The theme will be different at each class and will include a variety of fascinating topics such as countries, cultures, festivals, the natural world, the changing seasons, animals and more. Check out Sparkle Arts website for dates and booking information. For more information visit www.sparklearts.co.uk or call 07717 706 708 Monkey Music Monkey Music Morningside and Pentland will be offering Saturday morning classes once again in Juniper Green Church, starting on Saturday 10th September. The 10am Heigh ho class is suitable for children aged 1-2 years and the 10.40am class is for 2 & 3 year olds.

For a full list of all the classes in the Edinburgh South area and to arrange a complimentary class please contact Alison on Tel: 0131 669 6004 or email morningside.pentland@monkeymusic.co.uk www.monkeymusic.com Monkey Music striking the right chord!

Watch your child’s musical interest and ability flourish with our award winning progressive musical curriculum for children from 3 months – 4 years. During our weekly classes, we have great fun learning and working with percussion instruments, developing understanding of rhythms and using games and original songs to truly nurture an ear for music. Our Ding Dong curriculum puts all the learning in place and children learn about the families of the orchestra as well as developing their ear for rhythms, different genres of music and learn early graphic notation.

For a free trial contact Rachel on 0131 260 9667 comelybank.corstorphine@monkeymusic.co.uk. Classes are held 6 days per week in Stockbridge, Comely Bank, Cramond, Corstorphine, Murrayfield and we are delighted to be opening a new venue in Davidson’s Mains on a Tuesday morning!

CeilidhKids CeilidhKids – fun fitness and Scottish Dancing for all the family! At our classes and events, simple (often simplified) dances which you would meet at a Ceilidh or Scottish Country dance are explained and demonstrated, before everyone gets to have a go. Most of our dances are in traditional form but have been specially adapted for wee people to enjoy with Mum, Dad, childminder or grandparents. Fun, laid-back parent-and-child classes start back Wednesday 7th Sept 1.30pm at Mayfield Salisbury Church, Newington, and Thursday 8th Sept 10am or 1.30pm at St Martin’s Church, Dalry Road. Classes are 45 mins long and cost £3 if you pay for the term or £4 pay-as-you-go – all per family, not per child. Wee brothers and sisters are welcome, as are teddies, fairy wings, kilts and pirate outfits. So why not join us as we clap, march, skip, jump and twirl to the beat? Bring comfy shoes and something to drink – we’ll see you there! Phone Caroline on 0131 667 8898 or email ceilidhkids@ceilidhkids.com www.ceilidhkids.com for more details.

Helen O’Grady The Helen O’Grady Drama Academy offers a unique programme of self development for children. A great amount of time has been spent developing lessons which include a unique and extensive range of drama activities, designed to capture the imagination of students of all ages and abilities. Our programme is all- inclusive and non-competitive; all teachers are trained to develop children at their own rate.

The summer term is spent working on a short scripted play which is performed at the theatre for parents and friends. For some, this means the chance to build a character from their own ideas, for others, to project their voices with expression and enthusiasm, to others, the achievement of standing on a stage in public - for all, the opportunity to be part of something exciting and challenging and to be able to contribute in their own, special, and unique way.

Claire and Glyn the principals have been running the branch for 7 years and where delighted to be award branch of the year 2010.

We are currently enrolling, please call now to ensure that you get a place. 0131 667 0939 midscot@helenogrady.co.uk www.helenogrady.co.uk

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clubs&classes Mini Music Monsters Mini Music Monsters has been running for two years. It offers a unique way for young children to enjoy music in an energetic, playful environment that they do not realise they are learning in. We work our way through the basic constructs of music, using Orff Schulwerk techniques and the imaginations of the children. The classes encourage social confidence and interaction with other children and adults. Most of the learning is based around group singing and musical games supported by flute and piano performed by the teacher. Come and have some fun on a Wednesday afternoon. Jilly Mathews trained as a Community Musician at Edinburgh University in 2009 and wants to make music participation accessible to all.These activities are sponsored by St Peter's Church. 07717087616 jilly.mathews@blueyonder.co.uk STEP AHEAD STEP AHEAD Tutoring and Educational Services is the leading teacher organisation offering one-to-one tuition in the homes of clients or tutors throughout East and Central Scotland.

The power of individual tuition is being felt by countless children and is reflected in the outstanding results achieved in national Standard and Higher exams, as well as at younger stages. All academic subjects are catered for from primary through secondary.

STEP AHEAD has expertise in, and an outstanding record for, helping children gain places in independent schools. Our commitment to nurturing the raw ability and developing selfconfidence in all children regardless of background or experience ensures we continually help pupils reach the high standard required for independent school entry. STEP AHEAD also helps children to start their new school with confidence, ensuring that they will enjoy equal academic attainment as their new school friends.

A highly personal and caring service is provided - by selected tutors - starting with detailed assessment, then regular and consistent tutoring, leading to considerable progress.

For further information contact 0131 441 3603 or 01383 624599 and look at our website www.stepaheadtuition.com Tiny Talk No one likes to hear the sound of a baby crying and it can be frustrating trying to guess what is wrong; do they want milk, are they tired, is their nappy wet?

Imagine how much easier life would be if they could tell you exactly what they need or what they are thinking. Long before vocal chords, muscles and tongues are developed enough to speak, from around 6 months, babies can start to use sign language to communicate.

Not only that, research and anecdotal evidence has found that babies who use gestures, can develop earlier speech and go on to have larger vocabularies than those who don’t. You can start learning baby sign language from newborn and classes are fun with singing, instruments and lots of activity. Why not give it a try and see how it can give you an insight into your baby’s mind and reduce tears, tantrums and frustrations all round.

TinyTalk West Lothian & Edinburgh susanro@tinytalk.co.uk 07904 011014 www.tinytalk.co.uk Spanish Amigos Spanish Amigos provides Spanish clubs for the children of Edinburgh. The approach is progressive multi sensory and we teach the language with cultural notes from different Spanish speaking countries as well as some geography. By learning Spanish children will be able to communicate with another half a billion people and will thereby immediately improve career prospects and global mobility.

We run mama, papa and toddler classes for preschool children aged 2 to 4 in different locations across Edinburgh. For school children aged 5 to 12 we can open clubs in schools either lunch time or after school. On Saturday morning there is a club for all ages. During the October holiday there is a holiday club for ages 4 to 12 from 1030 to 1330 Monday to Thursday. For full details please visit the web site www.spanishamigos.co.uk or contact Kirsty on 0131 510 0328.

Lothian Dance Academy 2 Rosefield Ave Lane, Portobello and Gracemount Leisure Centre

Principal: Miss M.Phillips Diploma:Royal Academy of Dance

Jo Jingles Jo Jingles in West Edinburgh have new venues and classes this term. New venues include Kirkliston on Wednesday afternoons and Stockbridge on Thursday mornings and new classes include a baby class at Murrayfield on Monday morning, Blackhall on Thursday morning and Corstorphine on a Thursday afternoon. Baby classes are still free for babies up to 6 months making these 40 minutes classes even better value for money as there is no joining fee, you just pay our £2.50 insurance charge. With familiar songs and exciting props and instruments they make sure that every baby can get the musical start that experts say is so important.

Classes are restating again for 3 to 5 year olds, these classes encourage your pre-schooler to be more independent and will include some music theory and tuned percussion instruments.

These classes are in Craiglockhart on Monday afternoons, Meggetland on Tuesday afternoons and Corstorphine on Thursday afternoons. www.jojingles.com Swim Easy - Rapid Track from 17th October 2011 SwimEasy’s October “Rapid Track” Lessons will run for one week at Merchiston Castle School in Edinburgh from Monday 17th October to Friday 21st October inclusive.

Our specialist One-to-Two Classes can be booked a week at a time, each morning, from Monday to Friday.

One-to-Two lessons are especially useful when an individual has a particular fear of the water.

The confidence gained from individual attention significantly speeds up the learning process and develops better self-assurance. This allows the learner to discover for themselves just what can be achieved and the process of enjoying being in the water is greatly enhanced.

For those individuals who are already confident in the water and are reasonably competent, swimmers One-to-Two lessons can improve any weakness rapidly and any technical correction or specific area of improvement can be dealt with much more easily.

We also operate weekly swimming classes at various venues throughout Edinburgh and Forth Valley seven days a week throughout term time.

To Book Call Us Now On 0131 466 0764 or 01506 205778 www.swimeasy.co.uk

Pre-school Ballet & Tap Modern Jazz & Tap Boogie Kids Streetdance/Hip Hop Musical Theatre Song & Dance RAD Ballet Grades to Advanced

2YRS - ADULT

Sprung floors, Ballet Barres & Mirrors NEW TERM ENROLLING NOW Tel: 0131 669 9073 or Email

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clubs&classes Jack and Jill ‘Jack and Jill’ music classes in Edinburgh are live, interactive music classes for babies, toddlers and pre-school children with accompanying adults and are taught by qualified and experienced musicians. Early learning is encouraged through stimulating and multi-sensory musical activities shared between the adult and young child. Many areas of child development are fostered in the classes though the primary aim is always to have fun making music together!

Age-appropriate classes give young children opportunities to use their voices, explore music creatively, move and dance, handle simple percussion instruments, and above all learn to listen in a carefully structured yet relaxed and happy atmosphere. Music is performed live, usually on the guitar, violin, piano or recorder-as well as singing of course! Content is based around flexible themes such as farm animals, transport, countries and the seaside and brought to life using an exciting range of unusual instruments including steel drums, bagpipes, the accordion and many more. www.jackandjill-music.co.uk info@jackandjill-music.co.uk Ravivworks Ravivworks – Overcome Learning and Attention Difficulties in Edinburgh Ravivworks in Edinburgh provides children and adults with help to overcome learning and attention difficulties by using the Raviv Method. At Ravivworks we work with clients on a one to one basis and everyone has a programme tailored to their individual requirements. Learning and attention difficulties present in a variety of ways such as difficulties with reading, writing, maths, spelling, concentration, organisation, memory and self –esteem. Where there is a gap in learning the Raviv Method can help to bridge that gap by creating new neural pathways in the brain to enable the client to learn in a new and more effective way. The Raviv Method is a multi- sensory approach to overcoming learning difficulties and involves targeted, focused and fun based exercises. Ravivworks has places available in central Edinburgh. For more information and to arrange a FREE 1 hour consultation please contact Jane Oliver on 07512311317 or if you prefer email:jane.wexo@virgin.net. Please visit www.ravivworks.co.uk for more information.

Tumble Tots Tumble Tots is the leading National Active Play Programme for children from six months to seven years. There are five different classes, Gymbabes (6 months to walking confidently), Walking to 2 years, 2 to 3 years, 3 to 5 years and Gymbobs ( 4 1/2 to 7yrs) The Classes are 40-55 minutes, we change the equipment and action songs every two weeks so the children are learning something new and then re-enforcing it the next week.

We have a staff to child ratio of one to six, all the staff are trained and are experienced with children and the equipment. The children will learn climbing, balance, agility and co-ordination, because your child is able to do these things, their confidence grows and they are able to tackle other things which they may not have attempted and achieve them too. Tumble Tots is a good start for a child before they go to school, the social aspect, the skills, the confidence building and many more things besides. Why don't you let your child have a trial session and see for yourself. Please contact Jo the Tumble Tots Licensee for Edinburgh East (Monday, Tuesday and Friday at Cluny Church Centre in Morningside, Wednesday in Fairmilehead, Thursday in Haddington and Marchmont on a Saturday) on 01875 819966. Or April for Edinburgh West (Monday and Thursday in Corstorphine, Tuesday at Inverleith, Wednesday and Saturday at Murrayfield, Friday at Cramond Kirk) on 0131 336 1234 Baby Bugs New ‘Baby Bugs’ Classes at Music Bugs East Edinburgh Music Bugs provide local pre-schoolers with award winning singing and music classes that offer a play based environment for children to develop their learning and self confidence. Each class runs for 40 minutes where children have the opportunity to play with some fantastic props including puppets, pom-poms, scarves, rhythm sticks, parachutes, balls, bubbles and hobby horses. Classes run weekly in Morningside on Monday, 10.10 a.m, Leith on Tuesday at 9.45 a.m. and 10.40 a.m (new start times) and Musselburgh on Wednesday at 10 a.m. Further venue details can be found on our webpage at www.musicbugs.co.uk/classes/edinburgheast Our new ‘Baby Bugs’ classes will soon be launched at the Calton Centre and will run on the 5th, 12th,19th and 26th of September at a cost of £6 per child (discounts available for twins).

To book a class, please contact Hilary Crothers on 0844-822-1156 or email hilary@musicbugs.co.uk for further details.

Explore Learning Explore Learning is a network of learning centres for children aged 4-15, where children become members and attend regularly once or twice a week. Explore tutors create individual courses to inspire children to develop into confident, successful individuals with the knowledge and skills to succeed in life. Over 500 children regularly attend our Edinburgh centres to gain knowledge and enthusiasm from our team of fantastic tutors. A Free Consultation is offered to all families interested in the tutoring service provided by Explore Learning centres.

August is a fantastic time to join us at Explore Learning, to get off to a great start in the new school term. Additionally, we will be holding exciting workshops for our members before we go back to school allowing our members to take part in fun, interactive learning activities. Please contact your local centre for more information.

0131 332 3300 (Blackhall) or 0131 337 7401 (Murrayfield) www.explorelearning.org.uk Edinburgh Dance Academy Edinburgh Dance Academy offers classes and exams in Ballet, Jazz, Modern and Tap. The school is one of the leading dance schools in Scotland. The exam results are unrivalled and EDA is the only school in Edinburgh to have its own Performance Group. This will be the 12th year that pupils from EDA have performed in the annual Christmas Panto at the Kings Theatre Some pupils from the Performance Group classes are also about to take to the stage at the Royal Albert Hall in London dancing in the first ever Dance Proms.

Classes are taught in venues throughout Edinburgh and East Lothian. Age 2 and a half - Adult Telephone: 0131 337 3402 Office Hours: 10am - 6pm www.edinburghdanceacademy.co.uk

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clubs&classes Water Babies The Water Babies autumn 2011 term will begin w/c 22nd August and we have added a new venue in the Murrayfield area. Swimming is great for all aspects of your baby’s physical, mental and emotional development, making them fitter, stronger and more alert. Just as important, it’s a really sociable activity – offering the two of you the perfect opportunity to make new friends and have fun. If your baby is under 12 months old and you would like to look into the class options in your area, please give us a call on 0131 554 6682, send us an email to woggle@waterbabies.co.uk or have a look at our website www.waterbabies.co.uk If you’d like to plan ahead, the winter term will begin w/c 7th November. Many of our little swimmers join our waiting list before they are even born so it’s never too early to get in touch!

Edinburgh Young Musicians After 13 happy years at James Gillespie’s High School, Edinburgh Young Musicians will be moving its Saturday morning classes to the even more central venue of St. Thomas of Aquin’s High School in Chalmers Street, as from September 2011. The wonderfully modern and spacious hall at St. Thomas’s has previously been used by EYM for its special massed orchestra events, and all 300 pupils are now looking forward to making this school their permanent “home”. Musical Play classes for children in their final pre-school year and P1 are open to children with no musical experience, as are P2 Musical Workshop classes, which form a year’s course designed to prepare children to join one of EYM’s beginner instrumental classes or junior choir. String orchestras, choirs, recorder groups, chamber music and musicianship classes are open to older children with suitable musical experience. www.e-y-m.org.uk.

0131-226-3392.

Kip McGrath Professional Tuition In Maths And English At Kip McGrath Edinburgh we provide professional tuition on maths and English for all ages.

Following the success of our summer programme, we are now taking bookings for the new term. We support all levels and abilities and we have a team of caring teachers who are GTC registered. We offer specialised teaching for students who have dyscalcula or dyslexia. Our teachers also work in local schools and have knowledge and experience of the new curriculum.

So whether you have a child aged 4 or an older son or daughter studying for entrance exams, standard grades or highers we have both expertise and experience.

We have many satisfied parents:- 'J. came to Kip McGrath because he had lost confidence with his maths. In a matter of two months he has regained his confidence and more over is really enjoying maths. Thanks to Indy's tuition and patience'.

Contact Indy (Centre Director) on 0131 610 6110 for a FREE assessment. Follow us on Facebook. www.kipmcgrath.co.uk Kip McGrath Edinburgh Central, (Stockbridge/ Inverleith).

Tutti Footy FC Tutti Footy FC delivers fun football coaching classes in a relaxed environment to girls and boys aged from 2 to 7 years. We cover ball control, passing, movement, shooting, fun games and mini football matches.

Our aim for every Tutti Footy FC footballer is to: • keep them active; • help develop their mobility, confidence and self esteem; • develop their football skills; and • ensure they have a great time.

Mobile: 07791 755472 E-Mail: enquiries@tuttifootyfc.com Website: www.tuttifootyfc.com The Ceramic Experience Autumn Outings for Schools, Clubs and groups The Ceramic Experience in Leith offers group booking for school and clubs starting at £5.00 a head. We can tailor the package to suit your individual needs and themes. Why not book an autumn outing to the Ceramic Experience for some painting fun. For age 10 and over try your hand at glass fusing. New for Autumn we are re-launching our Adult evenings, 1st Thursday of the month 6-8pm, where you can paint without the kids.

Pop into the studio or email us for more information Leith@theceramicexperience.com The Ceramic Experience, 118 Ocean Drive, EH6 6JB 0131 554 4455 Whizzkids If you’re looking for a new after school activity for your children this term that is both fun and educational, why not give Whizzkids a try? Providing computer lessons for children of all ages for 13 years now, Whizzkids continues to offer lessons incorporating a range of useful computer skills as well as computer based maths and spelling activities. Lessons include touch-typing, PowerPoint, word processing, desktop publishing, computer art and much more! Classes are taught by a qualified primary school teacher in small groups and lessons may be individually tailored to suit your child’s needs. Phone Gillian on 0131 447 5893 or e-mail gillian@whizzkids.uk.com for further details.

19 Morningside Drive, Edinburgh, EH10 5LZ, 0131 447 5893 www.whizzkids.uk.com Find us on Facebook Follow us on Twitter Bethan Hunter (Piano Lessons) Offers piano lessons at students home - from beginner to advanced. In the Murrayfield, Stockbridge and Inverleith areas. Call or email for more information 07805846107 bethanhunter@gmail.com

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clubs&classes Mini Music Monsters Pre School Music At St Peter’s Church Hall Lutton Place, Edinburgh

Wednesday Afternoons at 3.30 pm The classes teach musical concepts such as pulse and rhythm in a way that is fun for parent and child using live music and instruments.

7th Sept to 30th Nov 2011.

Tel: 07717087616 or Email: jilly.mathews@blueyonder.co.uk Sponsored by St Peter’s Church

Clarinet Lessons 1st lesson free Individual tuition from age 10 upwards.

Adult beginners and returners also welcome.

Friendly, experienced teacher.

For fun, and/or exams.

Home visits arranged.

Music theory tuition also available.

Fulfil your musical potential!

Karen Mitchell MA, ALCM, LLCM(TD) 0131 555 0467 07932 094768

Dance classes for both boys and girls from 18 months upwards.

Kumon Whatever your child’s age Kumon can help them to excel in maths and English, develop their capacity for learning independently and boost their confidence in all areas of life.

Students attend their local Kumon centre once or twice a week for around half an hour per subject, and have daily worksheets to take away so they can study at home. At the centre, the Instructor will observe your child working and will monitor their progress, setting new work as appropriate and encouraging them to take ownership of their learning.

By starting at a level they are comfortable with, your child will cover familiar topics before moving on to something new. Once they have filled in any gaps and mastered the topic, the Instructor will set new and eventually unfamiliar work, challenging your child to self-learn at their own pace.

The essence of this support is guidance rather than explanation, helping your child to apply what they have already learned to solve work they have never seen before.

Enrol your child at your local centre between 1 September and 31 October 2011 to take advantage of the Free Trial and see how the Kumon method can benefit your child. www.kumon.co.uk.

Dynam-nic dance Dynam-nic dance now offers classes on a Friday afternoon at Craiglockhart Leisure Centre, including our Mini Stars class for 5 & 6 years. This one hour class covers Tap, Ballet and Modern following a fun theme each term. Learning basic dance steps with the help of props and exciting routines.

Looking for an all round dance class, our Dynam-nic Stars and Lowers classes are aimed at children aged 7-11 years.

The class is split into three 30 minute sections, Ballet, Tap and Modern/Jazz. A fantastic way to develop a variety of skills and to explore different dance styles.

We also offer a variety of classes for all other age groups, please have peak at our new website for all details about our new venue and all classes we provide.

Need a dance birthday party!! Dynam-nic Dance can provide a dance party tailored just for your child. Whether they love Michael Jackson moves or Justin Beiber is their favourite we will put together a playlist along with dance routines especially for you. Contact Nicky for more details 'discover the joy of dance' 07545551271 nicky@dndance.co.uk www.dndance.co.uk enjoyleisure If you’re looking for a coached activity in East Lothian, enjoyleisure has got everything from Archery to Zumbatomic! Infants, children and teens alike can discover a world of sport, play and leisure activities on their doorstep.

Swimming Lessons, Gym-Monkeys, Gymnastics, Trampolining, Basketball, Badminton, Judo, Karate, Tae Kwon Do, Climbing, Street Dance, Mini Tennis, Multi-Sports … the list goes on and on! As well as a number of coached sessions, many Clubs and Organisations make use of the enjoyleisure sports facilities offering children and adults alike a vast range of after school and evening pursuits. For further details of the facilities and activities available, please visit www.enjoyleisure.com.

October Holiday Club

Ballet • Tap Modern • Jazz

17th – 21st and 24th October

FRIDAY CLASSES now held at Craiglockhart Tennis & Leisure Centre

Contact Nicky to book your

07545 551271

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

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Portobello Music School Formed in 2005, Portobello Music School provides comprehensive music education to around 300 children aged preschool and upward from across Edinburgh and the Lothians. They run a Saturday morning music centre in Portobello for children aged preschool and upwards and have recently begun new weekday classes at the state-ofthe-art music education facility, CRE:8 at the nearby Jewel & Esk College. They offer a full range of instrumental classes as well as string, guitar, woodwind and rock/pop ensembles. To find out more and/or to enrol please visit www.portobellomusicschool.com or tel: 0131 669 1120 Socatots Socatots continue to run classes at various venues through out Edinburgh and the Lothians at the weekend, which run in blocks of 13 weeks continuously throughout the Year.

Socatots introduces the children to the core basics of Football and also helps learn Numeracy, Colours and other social skills. We are happy to announce that we will be expanding our Socatots Classes and are taking names for our Monday afternoon classes at North Merchiston Club, Watson Crescent.

In conjunction with Socatots, We are pleased to announce that we are now running classes for 5-7 years called Socatots ALLSTARS. ALLSTARS helps children learn about individual Football skills and tricks but also helps with teamwork drills and an introduction into a structured game format using Brazilian and Spanish training methods, making a foundation for a better complete player.

If you are interested in any of our classes, please contact Jamie Smith on 07923005534 or email j.smith@socatots.com (www.socatots.org/edinburgh) Rugbytots Due to demand, Rugbytots in the Edinburgh and Lothians, and Borders has added 10 new classes for the new Autumn term starting from 15th August 2011. Our 5-7year old class is proving very popular for those looking for a headstart in the game of rugby before moving onto their school/ club teams. Check the website for details of venues and times.

Also, Rugbytots has now expanded to cover Scotland!

Classes will be starting nationwide in the near future - so tell your friends further afield that Rugbytots is coming.

0845 313 3252 www.rugbytots.co.uk Mini Music Makers Music classes for the under 5’s. Classes in Edinburgh, Bathgate, Lintlithgow, Dalkeith and Livingston.

0141 287 2943 www.nycos.co.uk

clubs&classes Laura Joffe Child-friendly Piano Lessons Fun approach, solid musical education. Success in music breeds success in school! I teach all ages (P2 and up, adults too). Lessons are tailored to your individual needs, and I offer tuition in classical and modern styles, theory, aural and musicianship. I am child-friendly and CRB-checked. I offer lessons in my home (Corstophine) or can travel to your home (within Edinburgh and South Queensferry) if this is more convenient. Laura Joffe, ALCM, 0131 476 9228. www.justfingers.co.uk Baby Singing/Rainbow Singing Singing groups run by Laura Joffe, mother and musicmaker. We do action songs, nursery rhymes and traditional Scottish songs, to acoustic guitar accompaniment.

Parachute games and dice games are a real favourite for mums and babies alike, and there are also gentle percussion instruments for some hands-on music making.

The music is honest and genuine (including a few of my own songs) and we are not a franchise. Contact Laura on 0131 476 9228.

Baby Singing for babies (newborn-2 years) and carers, Salisbury Centre (2 Salisbury Road, Edinburgh EH16 5AB) on Wednesday mornings 11am-12pm. £5 per adult, additional siblings (two years and under) come for free! Drop in, 27th July to 14th December. www.babysinging.co.uk Rainbow Singing for children aged three and under, with carers. Cramond Kirk Hall (Cramond Glebe Rd, EH4 6NS), Fridays 10-11am. Runs in school term time starting 19th August on a drop in basis. £5 per session, or 5 sessions for £20. www.rainbowsinging.co.uk

DOODLES DOODLES half term Holiday Clay Club: Monday 17th- to Friday 21st October. We will be running clay modelling, leaf printing and crystal glaze workshops all week 10.30 – 12pm. Please call us on 0131 229 1399 to book your place Hermitage Golf To find out about Golf classes for children have a look at www.hermitagescotland.co.uk or email hermitage@aiscotland.org.uk or phone 0131 447 5700

Peacock Academy of Irish Dancing Irish Dancing Lessons The Peacock Academy of Irish Dancing delivers fun Irish Dancing classes in a relaxed atmosphere to girls and boys age 3 and up. Classes will cover cover the basic movements, traditional and contemporary Irish dances as well as Irish ceilidh, warm up games and a mini annual showcase.

The aim for every Irish dancer is to: • Help Develop different movement skills; • Develop balancing, mobility and confidence; • Interact with other children; • Keep them active; • And enjoy themselves!

Classes cost £5 per class payable in 4 week block bookings. The first class is HALF PRICE. Beginner classes are available in St. Johns church Hall Corstorphine, Saturdays, or in Marchmont St. Giles on a Thursday.

E-mail; Nathalie.Haak@yahoo.co.uk Mobile: 07525 171 425 Messy Munchkins Messy Munchkins – Messy Play Activity Classes for under 5’s (from 6 months old) Messy play is a fun and interesting way for children to explore and learn about the world around them. Messy Munchkin classes give children the opportunity to do just that, in a fun, creative and social way.

During the class children explore at least 4 messy play and one structured activity. They’ll get to; feel gritty sand, smell fruity play dough, paint with pudding, splash in glittery water, or maybe squish baked beans between their toes.

The experiences are plentiful and the learning is endless.

The structured activity is where they’ll make something specific, that they can proudly take home.

If you would like to spend some precious quality time with your child, please visit us online to see the class timetable. www.messymunchkins.co.uk and contact Juliet to book a trial class. Tel: 07876542492 Email:Juliet@messymunchkins.co.uk.

Fencing Fun – Best in Britain In a fantastic first year, Fencing Fun has introduced fencing to thousands of children through taster sessions with the Active Schools network in Edinburgh, running regular afterschool and weekend classes for hundreds of kids who have thrived on the mixture skills, tactics and mobility. The Fencing Fun coaches have loved seeing their sport embraced by so many youngsters and their wealth of experience and enthusiasm has helped to make a Fencing Fun class the highlight of the week for many kids. With more high-level coaches joining the Fencing Fun team across the country, the future of this Olympic sport in Scotland looks very healthy and with London 2012 less than a year away there could never be a better time for kids to get into this exciting and dynamic sport. www.fencingfun.co.uk

Messy Play activity classes for under 5’s – at various venues around Edinburgh!

Crucial early learning All the mess without the stress Fun, exciting and safe Precious quality time

For class details please visit our website

www.messymunchkins.co.uk To book a trial class please contact Juliet on 07876542492 or email juliet@messymunchkins.co.uk

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clubs&classes Pottery Painting & Craft Studio Come and try your hand at glass making, clay making, general crafts and pottery painting Bring your imagination and we’ll have the rest!

Available for parties, schools, playgroups and after school clubs See website for details on clubs & classes

Tel: 01506 238961 Email: chat@potteraround.co.uk or visit www.potteraround.co.uk

TuTu Tots A brand new class for tiny dancers from 2 years, with a participating adult, at Waterfront Dance studio. Great fun as parent and child discover the joy of movement together in this gentle, imaginative class. TuTu provided (kids only, sorry!) so no need to buy dance gear.

Pay on the day or discount given for block booking.

Fundraiser classes also available for playgroups & nurseries.

Located on West Shore Road with plenty of free parking, The Waterfront Dance Studio provides dance training from 2 yrs to adults. Classes in Ballet, Tap, Funky and Fitness, there’s something for everyone. Junior classes also held in Cramond Kirk.

School principal Niki Forbes has over 15 years teaching experience. All instructors hold professional qualifications and aim to provide you with a positive dance experience in a safe, caring environment. Excellent RAD exam results history; training and performance opportunities available.

Studios available for groups / rehearsal hire 07772504958 niki@waterfrontdancestudio.co.uk.

Honey Pot Ceramics Messy Play Arts and Craft sessions - For pre-School Children 6mths+ Every Monday,Thursday and Friday morning. £5.00 per session (includes all craft materials) Mon: 10-11am and Friday two sessions: 10-11am and 11.30 – 12.30pm.

Sessions will include a range of art and craft activities, including paper crafts, painting, stamping, sticking and will have a different theme each week.

The aim of our sessions is to help develop self-awareness, creative expression, fine motor skills, hand-eye coordination and, most importantly, to have lots and lots of messy fun! Things will get messy so old clothes are recommended for everyone! Booking Essential.

We are now taking bookings for our October Holiday activities. Projects will include a range of techniques and materials including: clay work, stamping, collage, painting.

17th – 21st October. Each session: £12.00 per head or £55 per week. Time: 10.30 – 12noon and includes juice. If you are looking for longer sessions these can be arranged – just ask. Booking Essential.

For full details of the holiday activities as well as current and future events please keep an eye on our web site at: www.honeypotceramics.com or call us on: 0131-333-6348. Be amazed at what you can do …

The Drama Studio The Drama Studio weekly after school term-time classes resume as from Wenesday the 17th of August at Fairmilehead, Bruntsfield, Colinton, Trinity, Balerno, Juniper Green, Wardie and Davidson's Mains.

We offer superb classes for ages 4-12 at these venues doing performances 3 times a year.

In addition we now have 3 Teenage Groups at Fairmilehead, Bruntsfield and Wardie.

Visit our website www.thedramastudio.com for full information or e-mail info@thedramastudio.com or phone 0131-453-3284 Kindermusik is an internationally acclaimed music and movement programme for children newborn to 7 years old.

www.kindermusikwithellie.co.uk • Music • Movement • Songs • Rhymes • Instrument Play • Parent & Child Time • Listening activities • Storytelling Classes for babies, toddlers, pre-school children.

Contact Ellie your Kindermusik educator for a FREE demo class: 07962678561 or email at: Kindermusik_with_Ellie@hotmail.com

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Little Ninjas Our Little Ninjas programme has gone from strength to strength in the last 12 months with 3 classes running per week in our full-time martial arts gym and another new class planned to open later in the year. The classes are great fun and fill a much needed gap where there is little to do for children aged 4+. The classes concentrate on building skills which children need in every area of life. The difference the classes can make in children can be seen in just a few weeks. Discipline and attention span quickly increases along with the ability to perform various martial arts techniques. The session are game based so all the games played relate to the particular skill we are working on. If you want to see your child excel then enrol them today. Your first two classes are free. 0800 028 9320 www.little-ninjas.co.uk Autumn Art At Potter Around Inspire your children’s artistic and creative side by letting them loose in our rural pottery painting and craft studio where they can try a number of crafts and express their creativity. The studio is open daily for anyone to drop in and paint pottery.

Hand And Foot Prints. Keep those precious moments forever by getting your baby’s or young one’s hand and foot prints on any ceramic piece or imprinted into clay.

Kids Clubs. Drop the kids to a supervised session everything from pottery painting to glass painting; clay modelling to jewellery making, textiles to canvases. They can even try knitting and weaving. Fridays 1-3; Saturdays 10.30-12noon; age 4+; £10 including drink and snack.

We will also be running specialised sessions in clay modelling, glass making and mosaics - all with experts in their fields.

Mums - why not relax at our Tuesday night Ladies’ night.

Check our website for dates and details.

Potter Around, Overton Farm, Kirknewton, West Lothian, EH27 8AH. T: 01506 238961 chat@potteraround.co.uk www.potteraround.co.uk Angela Watson School of Dance After a rewarding eleven year professional dance career, Angela went on to start the Angela Watson School of Dance nine years ago. In that time the school has earned a reputation for fun, stimulating classes with high standards throughout. The school now has branches In Colinton, Fairmilehead and Firrhill. Current and formal students have gone onto Royal Ballet Junior Associates, Scottish Ballet Junior Associates, Dance School of Scotland and Elmhurst Ballet School. The school offers classes in ballet for pre school children, RAD graded and vocational ballet, tap, modern and hip hop. We run various workshops, shows and theatre visits through out the year. For adults there are tap, ballet and a Friday morning jazz class. Angela believes that there is a dance class suitable for all ages at the school whether it's as a hobby, or for the more serious perhaps wanting to follow a career in dance. To find out more email angela4dance@yahoo.co.uk or call 0131 661 9590. Our website will soon be up and running.

clubs&classes

Kiss The Fish Busy Little Sew & Sews at Kiss The Fish. Our weekly sewing club for primary age children begins again on Monday 5th September. We’ll be learning a new sewing technique each week as well as doing some felt-making! £50 for 6 weeks including all materials and refreshments. Monday afternoons 4 – 5.30 suitable for ages 7 – 12 Don’t forget to sign up for our e- newsletter which will keep you up to date with all our workshops including mosaics, felt-making, Dr Who themed drawing, sewing, ceramics and card making. www.kissthefishstudios.com Kindermusik Kindermusik is an internationally acclaimed music and movement programme which complements children's development from newborn to 7 years old. Through its high quality materials and age appropriate programmes, Kindermusik provides the foundation for all musical learning where children and their families engage in an exciting learning process.

The Kindermusik Experience • Music • Movement • Songs • Rhymes • Instrument Play • Parent & Child Time • Listening activities • Storytelling All programmes and activities are based on the latest research in music and child development. Classes for children 0-18 months, 1 ½ - 3 years old, 3-5 years old and 5-7 years old, where each child's development and learning are encouraged in a safe environment. Parents also benefit from the Kindermusik experience! By taking part in the class, Kindermusik gives you the opportunity to spend quality time with your child, share experiences in a fun and creative way and strengthen your bonding.

You can register at any time and join the first class for FREE. Contact Ellie to book early and receive a discount or come along to one of the FREE classes.

Kindermusik_with_Ellie@hotmail.com 079 62678561 www.kindermusikwithellie.co.uk Dance Base Here at Dance Base, we celebrate the pure energy and fun that exists in young dancers and there’s not an exam in sight. Bookings have opened for Autumn Term.

Have you booked your young dancer in for a course yet? Be it a course for you and your toddler to bond and build confidence or Street and Hip Hop for your teenager – there’s a dance course for everyone. And don’t miss Razzle Dazzle Half Term School for ages 7 – 9 & 10 – 12 in October – a totally wicked chance for your young dancer to try out some of the best high energy routines. To book call 0131 225 5525 or online dancebase.co.uk

Doodle & Splat Doodle & Splat is an art, craft and messy play class for under 5's. Classes are held at Mayfield Salisbury Church on a Wednesday morning and at St Stephens Comley Bank Church on a Wednesday afternoon. Classes are for ages 12.5 yrs and 2-5 yrs. At the class we have messy trays that have slime, shaving foam, sand, water (to name but a few), plus the wee ones get to make creations with play doh, colour pictures, try out the rubbing plates, chalk boards and lots more! In addition we have 1 or 2 art and craft activities which can involve painting, gluing, glittering and much more! The best part of all is you and your wee ones get to have quality time together, making some fantastic masterpieces to take home to show families and friends.

The classes are all very relaxed and there will always be something for your wee one's to try out and as a parent/carer you don’t have to worry about the mess!

For more information about the classes see our website www.doodleandsplat.co.uk or email doodle@doodleandsplat.co.uk or call 0794 282 5114.

Acting Out UK Acting Out UK is an Edinburgh based Drama School who offer excellent and enjoyable training from teachers who are qualified, experienced and passionate about the performing world. We have lots of performing art classes starting this August including our drama classes for tots, children and teenagers (in both Morningside and Meadowbank areas) and our very popular Musical Theatre Classes for students aged 8-18. [Save 10% off first term by quoting "Families"]. Classes cover acting, singing, dancing, performing, improvisation, script-work etc, as well as building confidence and enhancing well-being.

We also have Beginner and Intermediate Drama Classes for Adults and have just launched a brand new Musical Theatre Class where mums and dads can get fit while dancing and singing to well-loved songs (from Disney to the Blues Brothers)! All our students can gain medals and qualifications through certified exams by the United Kingdom Alliance in Dance and Drama (soon to merge with SQA). We also act as a casting agency for all our students.

For more information please visit our website at www.actingoutuk.com or contact us on 07704 714 607 or email clare@actingoutuk.com Dance For All Dance For All, established in 1985, continues to nurture pupils to achieve above and beyond their potential with accredited dance classes: RAD Ballet, SDS Flamenco, ISTD Tap & Modern, Jazz & Street and NEW for 2011 – Contemporary (Teens), plus regular dance clubs in the school holidays. Dance For All has become known as Scotland's premier dance college, offering a diverse range of Child, Teen & Adult classes alongside their full-time Professional Stage Dance & Teacher Training Course. Their website has testimonials, timetables, picture galleries and much more: www.danceforall.co.uk or give them a call to register on 0131 226 5533.

The Peacock Academy of Irish Dance Irish Dancing for Girls & Boys age 3+ Classes in Marchmont & Corstorphine

Contact Nathalie on 07525 171 nathaliehaak@yahoo.co.uk

PIANO LESSONS At Students home, beginner to advanced.

Murrayfield-Stockbridge-Inverleith

Contact Mrs Bethan Hunter Tel : 07805846107 Email :bethanhunter@gmail.com

Drama and Musical Theatre Classes for Everyone Acting, Singing, Dancing, Performing.

Build Confidence and Enhance Creativity

Classes for Adults, Teens, Children and Tots.

Venues located in Edinburgh Individual Coaching, Party and Workshop Hire also available.

New Students Save 10% off first term by quoting ‘Families’.

Qualifi cati & Sho ons www.actingoutuk.com ws

07704 714 607 clare@actingoutuk.com

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Helping Your Child to Read Story time and enjoying the story will be a child’s first experience of reading from a very young age. It is most often done in a relaxed, calm and nurturing atmosphere.

They become immersed in the story, absorbed by the character and heaven help if you attempt to edit their favourite story to get to the end quicker one bedtime!!

Children implicitly build their skills of visual discrimination, auditory discrimination and short term working memory in order to begin the process of reading independently. Being relaxed around the process is vital if it is to remain an enjoyable experience. Unfortunately in busy day to day life –reading can become a pressure cooker, a task to be ticked off the list, all too often stressful if the child is tired or struggling.

For many children the enjoyment of reading can become more stressful when visual cues, size of text and length of story increases. The challenge of decoding the words, using punctuation to make sense of what they are reading and then having to make inferences about the story, characters and plot make it overwhelming To help keep your child relaxed around reading consider the following strategies.

Follow these steps to build a familiar routine around reading.

1. Before reading with your child, take a look around. A book is much more than its words on its pages. What is the title? What do we see on the cover?

Who is the author and what kind of stories and books does this person create?

When was the book written? By taking a few minutes to focus on these elements, we can set up expectations in the mind – like a loose outline- that we will later fill in with the details.

All of these pre reading activities help the reader to create a mental framework that will later hold the details of the text. Time well spent. The notes take during and after reading help the child to see where predictions were on target or where they may have gone off course.

2. Get a 10 000 metre view. Delving in a bit deeper, what can we learn about the story by reading the table of contents and flipping through the pages? Tables of contents offer huge amounts of information to help readers further develop expectations and outlines.

Regardless of their simplicity – or it may be because of it – the strategies above help to create better reading intentions to improve reading comprehension skills

3. Make it personal: Our brains are more likely to absorb information when it is directly applicable or related to our interests and our lives. Thinking about the information we have just accessed by answering the above questions, what aspects of this book grab their interest on a personal level? What features of the book relate directly to their lives? – look they have a cat just like you. This boy is the same age as your cousin...

Karen is an experienced educationalist who worked as successful Head Teacher and is now Director of Kb-Insights which is committed to providing innovative therapies which help both children and adults who are experiencing difficulties in learning.

4. Write it down. Now that we have a framework of expectations around what they are about to read, write down questions that have arisen about the story and its characters, and make some predictions about how the story may unfold.

Leading younger children in this process develops good habits which they can then do independently at a later stage.

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Kb-Insights – Closing the gap – Improving Reading & Language skills

She is now adding Fast ForWord programme to aid those finding reading and reading comprehension challenging. Helping from age 6 to adult.

To find out more get a link to the demos and discuss how this can improve your child’s language skills by contacting Karen 07837930714 or email Karen@kb-insights.co.uk Visit www.Kb-Insights.co.uk

Dyscalculia Numbers are not always as easy as 1, 2, 3 - for some people having to work out sums can be a real struggle, and can cause panic and stress.

Dyscalculia is a difficulty with maths.

Baby Sensory Classes

Hearing your child’s teacher say that “she/he hasn’t really got a grasp of maths” can throw you into turmoil. Most of us use maths in everyday life without giving it much thought – organizing our day, getting to meetings on time, paying for shopping, checking change, travelling by bus/rail (timetables). For a person with dyscalculia these life skills can be a real struggle.

What can we do to help our child to learn the basic principles of maths?

Language Often we find ourselves using words such as add, plus, more than - to a child who has dyscalculia this is very confusing, so choose a word and stick to it; if “+” is add then it is always add, if “=” is equals then great, but it must always be equals and not “makes”. We all teach our children at an early stage with common language when we say more juice, more fruit, less sweets!

Logic Maths is a logical subject and you need to learn and understand the basics before you can move to the next process. Working with your child on fun activities can help them to understand the concept of following instructions and the logical steps that need to be taken to get the required end result, for example in order to eat the fairy cakes we must follow the recipe and make the cakes, then we can make the icing and then decorate the cakes and then eat them!

Sequential Thinking With maths we must first be able to count sequentially forwards and backwards before adding, and then comes multiplication, followed by division, shapes, fractions and percentages. A really fun way to start on this path is at the end of the day for the whole family to do a recap of their day in a numbered sequential pattern, for example 1.

I went to school.

2.

I played with my friends

3

I had lunch….. and so on.

Light shows Brain games

Award winning Baby Development classes for babies from birth to 13 months

Classes in Ratho, Cramond, Corstorphine, Blackhall, Fettes, Haymarket & Meadowbank

Puppet shows Bonding/Massage To find out more visit our website www.babysensory.co.uk Contact: Emma-Louise Beeson Tel: 0781 886 3334 Twitter: @Edincentral Email: edinburghcentral@babysensory.co.uk

This also let’s children know what Mum and Dad have been doing, and vice versa. Communication will improve amongst the whole family and it can also be used as a really useful method for letting children know what will be happening tomorrow.

Time The concept of time for someone with dyscalculia becomes a real problem as we are no longer dealing with the logic of maths. There are 60 seconds in a minute, 60 minutes in an hour, 24 hours in a day, 7 days in a week, and it goes on…. Teaching your child the days of the week is a good place to start. Then each area needs to be dealt with slowly and in the correct order.

Improving the maths abilities of children with dyscalculia can be achieved with a one to one, multi – sensory approach. Jane Oliver at Ravivworks in Edinburgh works with children and adults, using the Raviv Method. For more information contact Jane on 07512311317,email: jane.wexo@virgin.net, and visit www.ravivworks.co.uk

Overcoming anxieties, behaviour& nurturing self resilience.

Individual sessions & workshops 07837930714 www.Kidsnlpscotland.co.uk

Reader offer and competition The Leckie & Leckie Magicals series will help your child to practice essential English and Maths skills at home. Fun, magical characters and fantastic illustrations are combined with easy step-by-step activities to encourage important early learning. Reward stickers at the end of each section give children additional motivation and encouragement, and accompanying parent’s notes explain the educational content of each activity.

Suitable for ages 3-18.

Each books costs just £3.99 but

Families Edinburgh readers can claim 25% discount at www.leckieandleckie.co.uk by using the promotional code LLW030 before check out*.

We also have 5 sets of books (one English, one Maths) from this series to give away. Please go to www.familiesedinburgh.co.uk/win to enter.

Please state the age range you would like. *Offer ends 30 September 2011

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GETTING THE MOST OUT OF OPEN DAYS Gemma Gray, Fettes College

www.tesco.com/clothing

All independent schools have Open Days which usually take place in September and October and are a great opportunity to get a feel for the working life of a school, its facilities, pupils and staff. These days are often specially organised with departments giving demonstrations, showing examples of work and discussing recent projects. Therefore what you see is a slightly unreal version of life at school but is a very good indicator as to what the school offers and is engaging and fun for children and adults alike. Open Days can get very busy and there will be lots of other parents and pupils so don’t expect to have undivided attention from key members of staff although they will be more than happy to chat with you. The following tips will help you to make the most of your time.

Bright Horizons Nurseries in your area…

• Birth to Three and Curriculum for Excellence • Qualified and professional staff teams • Wide range of activities meeting the individual needs of every child Contact us to discuss your individual child care requirements and arrange a visit. Call us on 0800 085 4074 or email parentenquiry@brighthorizons.com

Annandale Nursery EH7 4LS Bruntsfield Nursery EH10 5AD Cramond Nursery EH4 6PH Elsie Inglis Nursery EH8 8EW Livingston Nursery EH54 9EY Morton Mains Nursery EH10 7AW Rutland Nursery EH1 2AS

www.brighthorizons.co.uk

1. Do your homework before you go. Have a look at the school’s website and request a prospectus in advance so you know what to expect.

2. Tell the school you are intending to come – you do not need to rsvp but this makes them aware of your interest and they will often look out for you on the day 3. Involve your children in the day – ask them to think of questions they may like to ask or departments they would really like to see.

4. Plan to stay as long as you can to make the most of the experience refreshments are often provided for this reason.

5. Take your time – there is no need to rush or feel you must see everything, you can always visit the school again.

6. Have some key questions in the back of your mind but let the school show you round in the way they wish as this is designed to maximise your experience of the school.

7. Definitely take the guided tour (often done by pupils) – don’t try and do the tour yourself. The students are the best exponent of a school so ask them about what life is really like there.

8. If you enjoyed the day, make yourself known to the Registrar or Admissions officer who can then make a follow-up appointment for you or taster day for your son/daughter.

9. If you spot any current parents, talk to them and get their views on the school.

10. Don’t worry – people naturally get nervous when visiting a school for the first time but you should be welcomed and made to feel at home.

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CHOOSING AN INDEPENDENT SCHOOL The decision to choose an independent school is not one that parents take lightly, especially as it demands a large financial commitment, but the long-term benefits outweigh the short-term sacrifices. One key factor in the decision-making process is the ‘added value’ provided in terms of opportunities to learn outside the classroom.

Outside the classroom, pupils at independent schools have opportunities to work together, to forge new friendships and to rise to new challenges. Co-curricular pursuits also contribute enormously to the life of each school and its sense of community. Above all, they provide enjoyment and personal challenge for pupils. At every age and stage, participation rates are high.

Activities include arts and crafts, dance of various kinds, drama, ensembles, jewellery making, musical instrument tuition, orienteering, outdoor education, photography and a vast range of team and individual sports. Clubs and societies of all types flourish, many of them organised by pupils themselves. New groups are springing up all the time – from film units to eco committees and you can be sure that whatever your child’s interests, others will share them.

Music is also central to school life. Choirs, orchestras, ensembles and many different types of bands – jazz, wind, folk, pipe and rock – are on offer and concerts and performances are staged throughout the school year.

Finding the school that’s right for your child Each independent school has its own distinctive ethos which visitors say is actually tangible. That’s why it’s so important to visit two or three schools - to sense how they differ, to see what they each have to offer, and to judge where your child is most likely to thrive.

Admissions deadlines The admissions cycle that applies at most independent schools is outlined below, although specific dates should be checked with individual schools.

September to November November to December January to March March June Late August (day) /early September (boarding)

www.johnlewis.com

School Open days Application deadlines Entrance tests Offer of places made Induction days Start of school year

Fees, Financial Assistance and Financial Planning Average annual fees at junior level for are £7,600 (day) and £17,925 (boarding).

Most parents pay by monthly direct debit. Financial assistance is now offered at the upper stages of many independent primary schools, to enable children to benefit whose parents would not otherwise be able to afford the fees unaided. Awards vary from 100% of the fees (i.e. a free place) to around 20% depending on the financial circumstances of each family. All schools use means-testing to ensure that applications from those in greatest need are given priority.

In the current climate, more people are applying for financial assistance which means that the burden of responsibility on the schools’ limited resources is increasing. While schools do not wish to deter families in genuine need from making applications, it would be wise for families to also consult an Independent Financial Adviser for help with school fees planning. Reputable firms usually offer an initial consultation at no charge and they will be transparent about their fee structure and any commission payments that apply on financial/investment products. As an approximate guide, expect to pay around £300 for a detailed plan, based on your personal financial circumstances, addressing how the cost of school fees can be met over the period of your children’s education.

For further information, call Sarah at Scottish Council of Independent Schools (SCIS) on 0131 556 2316 or visit www.scis.org.uk.

You can find more information about individual Schools and opportunities to visit them over the page. If you get in touch with any of the schools do tell them you read about them in Families Edinburgh

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INDEPENDENT SCHOOL FEATURE

Fettes Preparatory School

George Watson's College

Everything we do at Fettes Prep is an aspect of our commitment to the happiness of your child. Like any good family, we encourage the children to throw themselves into everything they undertake but, above all, we want the process of growing up to be fun. Every boy and girl is capable of success and it is our duty to help them achieve this within a caring, happy and committed environment.

Care We strive to nurture the qualities of honesty, courtesy and tolerance in all of our pupils and our pastoral care is of the highest standard. Our boarding houses (one for boys and one for girls) are run by dedicated staff who create a warm and caring environment.

Learning Our wide and varied curriculum inspires all children to build on their academic potential while small class sizes ensure we can devote considerable time to each child. A strong emphasis is placed on a thorough grounding of English and Maths and specialist subjects are taught by specialist teachers.

The Arts Music, Art and Drama all give an excellent opportunity for self expression; every child has their work displayed, we have regular stage performances and a range of musical instruments is taught with expert tuition.

An Active Lifestyle With Sport, we encourage maximum participation not just because it is fun but because of the real lessons it teaches: teamwork, determination, discipline, self-esteem and manners.

We also offer an extensive range of activities vital to an all-round education.

Fettes Prep & Fettes College We believe that every Fettes Prep student has had the benefit of an education that will set them up for a bright future, in any senior school in the world. However, it also has something rather special on its doorstep, Fettes College, one of the world's finest senior schools. Every single day our students benefit from that great school's proximity. We share many of their facilities; from the 50-metre swimming pool to the dining hall; the rugby pitches to the drama theatre.

Fettes College and Fettes Prep also share one other important thing - our ethos.

This manifests itself in a determination to provide the best education your child could ever hope for. Open Day Sunday 2nd October 1.30pm - 4.15pm. Please call 0131 311 6744 for further details.

All on One Campus At Watson's they work hard to help pupils to settle in to their new environment. Arguably, however, it is the warm welcome from the pupils that makes the biggest impact. It is a closeknit community, and girls and boys from Nursery through to S6 share a secure, friendly and stimulating environment, from which to explore the many opportunities available to them, all on a single campus.

George Watson's College is ideally placed in the South of Edinburgh and can be easily accessed from East Lothian, Midlothian and West Lothian. All these places are serviced by buses organised through the school, as is Haymarket Station, for those travelling to Edinburgh by train.

The School is characterised by a warmth often associated with smaller schools, but unashamedly exploits the advantage of size to the full - and there is no doubt that the range of opportunities available to the pupils is exceptional.

Academically, it provides an unrivalled choice of subject and levels. S5 and S6 pupils can choose between SQA examinations or the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IB) as Watson’s recently became the only Scottish School to offer the IB alongside SQA qualifications.

But the breadth of opportunity also extends beyond the classroom to a thriving extracurricular scene. An enviable choice of musical and sporting activities, along with those representing politics, environmentalism, business and the arts, is on offer.

Recent developments in flexible care extend the wrap around and holiday care for younger pupils to fit the needs of modern family life.

The final £6m investment to create ‘The George Watson’s Centre for Sport’ is nearing completion and these magnificent sporting facilities should be open

by Easter 2012.

Go along to their Open Morning on 8 October and see what it means to be part of the Watson’s family.

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INDEPENDENT SCHOOL FEATURE

Edinburgh Steiner School

George Heriot’s School

Situated in the leafy suburb of Merchiston, the Edinburgh Steiner School offers places to just 350 children aged 3 ½ - 18 years and forms a caring community in which pupils of all abilities are welcomed, accepted and valued.

Our excellent exam results, small class sizes and the introduction of modern language education from age 6 are underpinned by outstanding pastoral care. We are proud to be a centre of excellence for Art and Drama while our science students consistently score among the highest marks in the country in both GCSE and Higher examinations.

Early Years Education Early Years education at the school starts as early as pregnancy where expectant mothers, parents and carers are welcomed with their babies and toddlers to our range of baby, toddler and play groups. Set in a dedicated and cosy building, children enjoy seasonal crafts, festivals, nature walks, play and songs. These groups provide an excellent and informal introduction to Steiner education.

From 3 ½ years, our Kindergarten offers an environment where the deeper needs of the child to create, initiate and imagine are nurtured.

The day can begin with a short activity such as baking which leads into a period of free play with ‘unformed’ toys to encourage imaginative thinking. Watercolour painting and other artistic activities awaken creativity, while the rich imagery of fairy tales and songs nourish language skills. Games and outdoor play increases physical strength while seasonal festivals foster a meaningful connection with nature. The foundations are laid for the later development of numeracy skills as children weigh and measure ingredients while preparing their snack.

Class sizes throughout the school are kept deliberately small in order to nurture the intellectual, social and emotional development of each pupil and to encourage a love of learning. A uniquely supportive environment has been created in which all children can flourish.

Our school is proud to produce able young people, who have the spirit and entrepreneurial flair to become productive adults. Our former pupils go forward into the world with confidence and succeed in a wide range of careers Edinburgh Steiner School, 60 Spylaw Road, Edinburgh EH10 5BR 0131 337 3410 www.edinburghsteinerschool.org.uk

One of the highlights of the new session at George Heriot's School will be the opening of our new Sports Centre in early 2012. This is a major and exciting development which all of the Heriot’s community are eagerly anticipating.

Our exam results continue to be outstanding – a tribute to the professionalism and skill of our talented staff and the hard work, enthusiasm and dedication of our pupils.

However, our exam grades are only a small part of the picture. At all stages throughout our Junior and Senior Schools, Heriot’s cultivates an ethos of care reinforced by outstanding guidance and our commitment to charitable fundraising and voluntary service. Our pupils also benefit from an extraordinary number of extra curricular activities, ranging from the 27 sports on offer to a huge variety of musical, dramatic and other opportunities; the emphasis, as ever is on taking part – in everything we do we want to encourage our young people to participate, to try hard and to be happy.

For us, the highlight of our Open Morning, which this session will fall on Saturday 1 October, will once again be the turn out of pupils, Junior and Senior, willing to volunteer to give up their Saturday to show prospective pupils and their parents their School. We hope you will join us for a happy and fun morning and discover the warm community that is George Heriot’s School.

You are also most welcome to visit the School on ‘normal’ days – visits are easily arranged by contacting our Admissions Department on 0131 221 6709.

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INDEPENDENT SCHOOL FEATURE The Edinburgh Academy Choosing a school for your child is a very important decision.

Our most important publicity comes from our current and former parents so do please feel free to speak to them!

We look forward to meeting you and helping you discover what is behind the stones.

Prestigious past, present excellence, bright future The Edinburgh Academy first opened its doors to pupils in 1824. Famous alumni include Robert Louis Stevenson, James Clark Maxwell and Michael Blair, and Sir Walter Scott was a founding director. The Founders of the Academy were motivated by the highest educational ideals. As the Edinburgh New Town grew, its leading citizens were not satisfied with the education offering. They resolved to create a new school in which excellence could be achieved, and they gave their academy a motto that reflected their aspirations - "Always Excel."

Today, the fully co-educational Academy still stands for excellence. Its objective is for each child to be the best that he or she can be. This is supported by continuous investment in school facilities, ensuring an environment of the highest standards. Recent additions include a new Performing Arts Centre, Science Centre, state-of-the-art Nursery and two new Astroturf pitches.

The Nursery provides a warm, caring environment with a structured, productive and fun approach to learning, which eases the transition from home life to education.

Nurturing the individual The smaller size of the Academy allows a focus on the needs of the individual pupil, offering tailored teaching, nurturing of talent, and a choice of Highers or A-Levels during sixth form as well as a full programme of co-curricular activities. Here, particular strengths lie in sport and music, both offering excellent opportunities for pupils.

The Edinburgh Academy Senior School Chamber choir won the prestigious BBC Songs of Praise School Choir of the Year competition 2011 – the first Scottish school to win the UK-wide competition, on the same weekend that the Under 16 Rugby team won the Brewin Dolphin Scottish Schools Cup on the main pitch at Murrayfield Stadium.

Opportunities to explore the Creative Arts are wide and varied, with unique facilities such as the new jewellery and silversmithing workshop, for which the Academy has just been awarded its own hallmark. Concerts, plays and musicals are also performed regularly at venues including Edinburgh’s Usher Hall and the Academy’s new Magnusson Centre for Performing Arts.

Horizons are further broadened with cultural and sporting expeditions to a variety of destinations from the art galleries of Edinburgh and the Academy’s dedicated outdoor education centre in the Highlands, to Canada, Iceland and the Red Sea. For more information on The Edinburgh Academy visit www.edinburghacademy.org.uk

St George’s School for Girls When we talk to prospective students, especially the younger ones, we ask them how they will feel about there being no boys in St George's (apart from some very little boys in the Nursery). The answers range from "cool!" and "awesome!" to a look of bewilderment, which tells us all we need to know: it is not an issue, but rather an aspect of the school that most girls see as advantageous.

There is no need to rehearse the arguments in favour of single sex education here. For many the debate is over and the motion carried: some girls probably do better in a single sex environment; some prefer to work in a coeducational context; some girls will do stunningly well wherever they study. It is a matter of preference and many parents prefer to invest in a single sex education for their daughters.

One thing is sure: we do not have to spend time worrying about getting it right for the boys. We can focus on the girls alone. There are many spin-offs. Participation in sport across all fitness levels is impressively high at girls' schools. Girls are more active in the playgrounds as well since, by definition, girls-only playgrounds cannot be dominated by a group of boys. Rather than stand back in practical lessons, girls have to get involved. They must carry out the experiments in the sciences and design mechanical systems in engineering clubs; they must take the lead in whatever subject they study.

If we have a football team, a girl will have to captain it - and the same goes for every leadership role and post of responsibility in the student body: a girl will have to fill it.

When parents visit our school, our students give the guided tours. Primary 5 girls step up to the plate in the Junior School, and the most appropriate age group give tours of Lower School; our sixth form girls take it in turns to offer tours in Upper School. Prospective parents remark on the girls' obvious pride in St George's; they also note their confidence and politeness.

We are all proud of our school and of our girls. If you haven't visited the school recently, the admissions office will be happy to set up a visit for you, and then you can see for yourselves, through our girls, what we are all about. Just don't expect to see many boys here!

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INDEPENDENT SCHOOL FEATURE Edinburgh Montessori Arts School

Erskine Stewart’s Melville Schools

Edinburgh Montessori Arts School (EMAS) is holding an Open Day on Saturday the 1st October 2011 from 10 am until 3pm where visitors will be able to view the new school and meet the teaching staff.

A special place to learn Edinburgh is a great city and Erskine Stewart’s Melville Schools are great schools, rooted in centuries of the best that Scottish culture and education can offer.

We offer a very special education, every facet of which is focused to ensure that each boy and girl has the opportunity to discover his or her real talents, to develop them to the full and to know how to use them both for their own self-fulfilment and to the benefit of family, friends and the wider community.

First steps For our youngest children, life at Erskine Stewart’s Melville Schools starts in a modern campus on the Mary Erskine site at Ravelston; an environment designed with the needs of young children in mind. This is where children quickly learn that they are in a place where they belong, where they are secure and where they can grow into self-confident and selfmotivated learners.

We pay careful attention to the individual personalities of every child, helping the boisterous to channel their energies constructively and encouraging the shy to blossom.

Our ambition is that every day, every child should be able to go home and say “I loved school today”.

Our nature is to nurture Children enjoy being challenged and we enjoy challenging them. Jumping in puddles, climbing trees and getting wet are all part of the experience of our youngest children. Our extensive school grounds give almost unlimited opportunities to enjoy and learn about nature at its best.

Helping Parents For families who have to juggle work, home and school commitments e-Plus meets the needs of both parents and children before and after school and provides full day care throughout the school holidays.

Erskine Stewart's Melville Schools also offer dedicated coach services daily from East and West Lothian, Midlothian and Fife, to and from our Edinburgh Schools. See how your child can flourish by joining Edinburgh’s family of schools with the unique diamond structure.

Contact: Admissions Secretary, Erskine Stewart's Melville Schools Tel: 0131 311 1111 Email: admissions@esmgc.com www.esms.edin.sch.uk

EMAS has moved to picturesque new premises at Mill House, Tower Mains Studios, 18N Liberton Brae, Edinburgh.

Established in 2006 EMAS is the only Independent Montessori school in Scotland providing education for 1-12 year olds.

Emma Wardell, Principal Teacher “After our first five years in Morningside, building a strong teaching team to deliver excellent quality care for preschool children, we have found our popularity has outgrown our location. This fantastic new site is a beautifully restored farm steading with views to extensive green fields and with immediate access to a wonderful green belt area. This magnificent building compliments the Montessori ethos with its abundance of natural light and calm surroundings”.

“We are now able to host our school classes, parent and baby group, after school and Saturday clubs all in one ideal space.”

Leila Coward, parent enthused: “As a parent it is important to me to send my child to an established Montessori nursery and school with the wonderful, experienced staff that EMAS employ. It is the reputation and quality that stand out for me and are underlined by how happy my children are to be at school.”

For further details please see www.emaschool.co.uk or contact office@emaschool.co.uk

stunning classrooms for infant Community Educational Care for 1-3 year olds Children’s house Nursery education for 3-6 year olds elementary Primary education for 6-12 year olds

For more information call

0131 446 0777 office@emaschool.co.uk www.emaschool.co.uk

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Other School News Success Through Communication If your child is affected by hearing or communication difficulties you’ll know how important it is that they receive the right support to help them communicate effectively.

This support is vital throughout their education.

Donaldson’s School, now based in Linlithgow, caters for pupils who are deaf or have communication difficulties. Pupils come from all over Scotland, including some from this area, who have full or part-time day or residential places funded by their local authority. Donaldson’s has a nursery, primary and secondary school plus Future Focus, a new post school provision, and accepts new pupils at any stage.

both an Individual Education Programme and a Communication Profile. This tailored approach allows pupils to follow the National Curriculum and achieve National Qualification (Scotland), as appropriate.

The national school is supported by the Scottish Government so that children and young people from all over the country can access the specialist teaching and expertise on offer from the school’s specialist team. The team includes Teachers of the Deaf; subject teachers; speech and language therapists; an occupational therapist and physiotherapist, supported by an educational psychologist, educational audiologist and classroom assistants as well as a residential care team.

The modern Donaldson’s campus opened in Linlithgow in 2008 following the schools relocation from Edinburgh’s west end. The whole campus is purpose built to ensure that the acoustics are perfect for children with hearing difficulties. Situated in a semi rural area on the outskirts of Linlithgow the natural environment also plays a large part with outdoor teaching areas, woodland exercise areas and extensive use of natural light and water sources within the buildings. The layout of the main school is also designed so that pupils have easy access to shared resources and specialist teaching and therapy areas, a seamless environment for minimum disruption to their lessons.

Donaldson's also has a dedicated Deaf Studies department which, in addition to providing positive role models for deaf pupils, gives invaluable support for teaching staff. All departments work collaboratively on Donaldson’s unique policy of inclusive communication which utilises a wide range of approaches to communication based on each pupil’s individual needs.

The school can also cater for pupils who have additional behavioural, emotional and/or physical needs. A number of Donaldson’s pupils have a diagnosed syndrome, are on the autistic spectrum or have other difficulties including severe speech and language difficulties or verbal dyspraxia.

With appropriate support and an environment of inclusive communication, Donaldson’s ensures that the curriculum is accessible to all pupils. Each pupil has

Whilst there is little dispute about the high level of education on offer across Scotland very few schools can boast such high levels of individual support and modern bespoke facilities. If you’d like to know more about Donaldson’s School visit www.donaldsons.org.uk . They have regular opportunities for parents and professionals to find out more by attending one of their free Information Days.

The next one takes place on Saturday 24th September and another will be arranged for February 2012. You can contact the school for more information, or to register for an Information Day, on 01506 841900 or email info@donaldsons.org.uk .

St Margaret's Primary School Greenbank Pre School Goes Green

We are a small (roll is 43!) school in Midlothian who are trying every which way to shout about how great the school is! We are one of three schools in the village of Loanhead • • • • • • • •

Fantastic modern campus and facilities (opened in 2008) Friendly caring ethos Breakfast & After School Club on site School bus to/from Bilston & Roslin Open to all beliefs Music, Art & Drama specialists French throughout the school Small year groups (combined composite classes)

Regular open days or call for a tour: 0131 440 0453 e-mail: stmargarets_ps@midlothian.gov.uk website: http://stmargarets.mgfl.net/

The children at Greenbank Pre School in Edinburgh have been, over the past few years, finding out how to help the state of the Planet as well as the people living in it. To this end we have become heavily involved in Eco work. As well as learning the valuable concepts concerning becoming an Eco School, our work has involved community projects, strengthening our links with Greenbank Church and working together as a community and partnership. Our Day of Action for session 2010/2011 involved planting bulbs in the Braidburn Valley Park with the help of Scottish National Heritage who provided the bulbs and equipment. Together with a group of children, parents and staff planted over 500 crocus bulbs at the entrance to the park in late November 2010, two days before the ground was covered in snow for several weeks. Our work was rewarded in early April with a wonderful display of yellow and purple crocuses which the children could admire on their way to and from Pre School.

Other projects have involved supporting the charity Scottish Love in Action, recycling mobile phones and clothes as well as growing our own fruit and vegetables. The key to enabling our work to be so successful has been engaging the support and commitment from parents, children and local community who, with the staff, are dedicated in ensuring that an awareness of “Green” issues permeates our community and lives at Greenbank Pre School. Thinking “green” has become a way of life.

St Mary’s Music School Come to our Open Day on Saturday 8 October to find out about music for children in Edinburgh Coates Hall, 25 Grosvenor Crescent, Edinburgh EH12 5EL Telephone 0131 538 7766

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Enhance your child’s reading, spelling & language skills Fast ForWord – programmes developing cognitive skills and reading skills simultaneously From 6- adult /English as 1st or Kb-Insights 2nd language Watch the video clip and find out about the science Contact Karen 07837930714 to get link to demos & find out more. behind the learning. http://alturl.com/j4na www.Kb-Insights.co.uk

EYECARE FOR CHILDREN

This month’s article by Clare Downes of Downes Opticians, Leith aims to highlight the importance of good eye care for children: All children need to have an eye examination – ideally before they are 8 years old. “But my child was screened at school/nursery” is the usual response. However, not all schools and nurseries provide a screening service, and those that do only conduct a basic screening test. This will highlight the obvious issues; more complex issues could possibly slip through the net. Additionally due to the nature of the screening test it does not investigate the health of the eye.

Every parents wish is to give their child the best start in life. Your child’s ocular development plays a large part in your child’s overall development. Good eyesight allows for better learning potential and ensures maximum concentration. And it isn’t all about the classroom. Their ocular performance can directly affect their ability in sports and leisure pursuits.

Generally, by the time eight comes around the visual track is fairly set, however if we can catch children pre-eight we have a much better chance of rectifying the majority of issues. We would like to start the eye care routine for your child from about 2 ½ - 3 years old as we need to ensure that your child’s eyes develop their full potential and in doing so enable your child the optimum environment to learn and progress.

The problem is many children are unaware that they have visual difficulties as they have no method of comparison and are often unaware that others see differently from themselves. This issue is exacerbated unfortunately when the problem is only in one eye, as it is masked by the better eye. If your child has even a slight prescription in one eye, this can affect the development of both eyes resulting in potential problems affecting their learning abilities, performance in sports, in later years driving and many other day to day tasks.

A thorough eye examination will detect any visual concerns as well as investigate the health of the eyes.

If there is a family history of any visual problems it is even more important for your child to have an eye examination by an Optometrist (posh word for Optician). If either parent has a binocular vision problem such as a squint or a lazy eye then there is a 40% risk that your child may have too and this increases to 80% chance if both parents have any form of binocular vision problem. But don’t panic, eight years old is not a definitive age, if an abnormality is found improvements have been shown to be possible up to the age of eleven.

Today I have the unusual pleasure of being able to write this article in the sunshine in the back garden which reminds me to mention the dangers of UV light. Children need UV protection even more than adults, with their larger pupils, clearer lens fluids and developing softer tissues, children are even more at risk from damage caused by dangerous UV rays. Children generally spend much more time outdoors than adults and a child's annual dose of UV radiation is three times that of adults.

You will already smother them in sunscreen, insist on that sunhat but have you remembered their sunglasses?

When buying children’s sunglasses remember to ensure they have full UV protection

Eye examinations should be a fun experience!

Have you ever wondered what the going rate is for the tooth fairy or how you can reduce tooth decay in your children’s teeth? Dentist Eimear O’Connell of Bite dentistry has the answers to your dental questions.

Q: With children being at school all day and knowing they won't brush their teeth at lunchtime, is there anything we can put in their lunchboxes to help with dental health? All the adverts suggest chewing gum after eating but I can’t imagine that’s a popular suggestion in schools!

A: If chewing gum is not an option a small piece of cheddar cheese will neutralise the acid and also contains calcium which is good for developing bones and teeth.

Q. How can we make sure our children brush their teeth for long enough/properly once they do it themselves?

A: Buying an egg timer is a great investment. Try and encourage children of 10 years and older to brush for 2 minutes. Most electric toothbrushes have timers so this helps children achieve a target time.

Q. If a tooth is wobbly should we try and "help" it out?

A: You can help wobbly teeth out but sometimes it's a little sore. Eating apples or biting on carrot sticks helps to quicken the process. If the tooth fairy does visit your home then £1 is a good price for a shiny tooth!

Q. Should kids floss?

A: Children with permanent teeth can floss but generally until 16+ it is too tricky and it is best to concentrate on good brushing.

Q. What can parents do to help dental health?

A: Try to encourage less frequency of sugary snacks and use a good fluoride toothpaste to be used with electric toothbrush. Plaque disclosing tablets are a fun way to discover how well we are all brushing.

At Downes Opticians we like our young patients to have an enjoyable time and want to come back and see us again! Therefore for our very young visitors we have altered many aspects of the eye examination and turned them into fun games to play. Okay, so they won’t keep the average 15 year old amused, but they do appear to be appreciated by the younger children! You should be aiming to get your child used to regular appointments and building up a good rapport with your opticians’. This has proved that later in life, when they finally fly the nest and become responsible (?!) adults, that good eye care will be as normal as routine visits to the dentist or bringing their washing home!

Q. In my day we were taught to rinse after brushing but kids today seem to be told not to - are us grown ups doing it all wrong?

The Scottish government is so aware of the paramount importance of quality eye care that they provide free eye examinations for everybody, not just children. One of the most important things you can do for your child is to organise an eye examination for them; contact us for an appointment today.

Bite Dentistry We care about your smile 30 Glen Street Edinburgh EH3 9JE Call 0131 228 4030 to find out how to arrange a free initial consultation Email: info@bitedentistry.co.uk www.bitedentistry.co.uk

Downes Opticians, 2 North Junction Street, Edinburgh, EH6 6HN 0131 53 5358, www.downesopticians.com

A: Definitely do not rinse after brushing as this dilutes the effect of the fluoride in the toothpaste. You need the fluoride to remain in contact with the teeth for as long as possible.

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

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

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Think outside the

(Lunch)box!

Making healthy lunches that your child actually eats can be challenging! You know that you don’t want your child to come home starving, or to spend lots of your time thinking about it, or to waste money and food to get variety in. Here are some practical solutions that will help you tackle these problems.

Make it easy for yourself • Variety: use bread products that can be frozen so that you can use a small amount at a time, e.g. a small loaf of sliced bread, rolls, pitta bread, tortilla wraps. Oatcakes, crackers and large rice cakes are good alternatives. Buy small packs of different fillings so that you can vary them too.

• Experiment at weekends and during school holidays: try different sandwich fillings at the time of day when your child is really hungry (e.g. mid-morning snack). Try oatcakes with pate, or carrot sticks with a bit of smoked mackerel dip (i.e. mash smoked mackerel with cream cheese and lemon juice). Let your child see, smell and touch any new fillings if they want to, i.e. don’t hide them inside a sandwich. Eat some yourself to encourage them to copy you.

• Plan both dinners and lunches: make extra at dinnertime to use as lunches, for yourself as well as your child. Pasta with pesto and tuna or salmon can be served the next day.

Cooked homemade chicken nuggets can be frozen for lunch at a later date. Using a meal planner will help you to vary meals. The flexible ‘What’s for tea?’ Meal Planner Form is magnetic and can attach directly to fridge doors. It has space for one week’s worth of lunches and dinners, and comes with magnets that you can write meals onto. It is available from www.foodmonsters.co.uk at £9.99, and includes free quick & healthy meal tips, recipes and suggested meal plans.

Make it easy and fun for your child • Cool packaging: use a colourful lunchbox or bag, that your child has chosen themselves if possible, and allow your child to decorate their own plastic container(s) with stickers or special pens.

• For smaller fingers: make sure all plastic containers are easy for your child to open. Put berry fruit such as blueberries or raspberries into a plastic container and include a spoon.

Cut vegetable sticks and offer with a dip.

• Let them make it: separate out the sandwich fillings such as ham or cheese if your child usually rejects sandwiches. Many children like to ‘build’ their own sandwiches so that they can see exactly what is going in. Include sliced cucumber or carrot, and try calling it making a monster sandwich!

• Add a small treat, e.g. a couple of Mini Hobnob biscuits, or a few Hula Hoops. Don’t put a whole packet in as this might fill them up too much.

www.wingreen.co.uk

Motivate your child (and yourself!)

• Reward positive lunchtimes, both at home and at school or nursery, if your child is particularly fussy. Use stickers and make sure the rewards do not involve food, e.g. a trip to the swimming pool or cinema, ‘special’ time with mummy/daddy. For a free reward chart form go to www.foodmonsters.co.uk • Involve your child in choosing their lunches, even if just the flavour of yogurt or colour of apple • Talk to your child about what happens when they eat healthy food, using what motivates them, e.g. having energy for gymnastics or football, or being able to concentrate on their school work in the afternoon. Go to www.foodmonsters.co.uk to get a free ‘quick facts’ list of vegetables and fruit and their benefits.

• Keep trying: children’s (and adult’s) tastes often change over time, so something that was refused at age 3 might be accepted at age 5, 7, or 37!

Repeatedly offering different foods does make a difference in the long run.

Don’t give up!

Claire Burrell is an expert in practical support to help your kids eat healthier food, and has worked with groups, individuals and in schools. Check out www.foodmonsters.co.uk for more information, and to register for FREE newsletters with hints, tips & recipes. (Note: It is rare for children to have serious food phobias or health problems that cause restricted eating.

If you feel that your child has a serious problem then you should discuss your concerns with your GP. Record a food diary for at least a week to take to your appointment. )

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Mini Cheese Quiche Recipe by Annabel Karmel

Children like the idea of having their own personal portion of something, and this cheese quiche has that combination of cheese and sweetcorn that children tend to enjoy. Xanthan gum is a fine powder that helps gluten-free flour to hold together better in pastry and cakes.

Ingredients

Method

Gluten Free Pastry 165 g (6oz) rice flour 55 g (2 oz) potato flour 2 tsp xanthan gum 1 ⁄2 tsp salt a pinch of cayenne pepper 110g (4oz) cold butter, diced 55 g (2oz) mature/sharp Cheddar, grated 2 tbsp freshly grated Parmesan 1 medium egg, lightly beaten

To make the pastry, sift together the flours, xanthan gum, salt and cayenne pepper. Put into a large bowl and rub in the butter until the mixture looks like sand, then stir in the two cheeses. Add the egg and mix to a dough, adding a few drops of cold water if necessary. (For a food processor put all the ingredients except the egg in the bowl and pulse 8–9 times until the mixture looks sandy. Add egg and process until a ball of dough forms on the blades.)

Filling 3 tbsp tinned and drained sweetcorn 2 spring onions, finely sliced 1 medium tomato, seeded and diced 120 ml (4 1⁄2fl oz) milk 1 medium egg plus 1 egg yolk, lightly beaten salt and pepper, to season

Roll out to £1 coin (1/2 cm/1/4 in) thickness and cut out circles using a 9 cm (3 1/2 in) cutter. Use a palette knife to lift the pastry circles and gently ease into the cups of a non-stick muffin tin. Re-roll trimmings and cut to make a total of 12 quiches. If any cracks appear then patch with small pieces of pastry. Chill for 30 minutes, until the pastry is firm.

Pre-heat the oven to 180°C/350°F/Gas 4. Divide the sweetcorn, spring onions and tomato among the pastry cases. Put the milk and eggs in a jug, and whisk to combine thoroughly then season to taste with salt and pepper. Carefully pour the egg mixture into the pastry cases, being careful not to over fill. Bake for 20–25 minutes, until the filling is slightly puffed and the pastry is golden. Allow to cool in the tin for 10 minutes.

Carefully remove the tarts from the tin using a palette knife and cool on a wire rack.

Transfer to the fridge as soon as possible, if not eating immediately. If cooking from frozen, defrost overnight in fridge. To reheat tarts, warm in a low oven for about 10 minutes.

InformatioN: Preparation time: 25 minutes plus chilling Cooking time: 20 minutes Suitable for freezing Makes 12 mini quiches If you are a fan of the wonderful Annabel Karmel you’ll be pleased to hear she has a new book out – Top 100 Baby and Toddler Meals in Minutes. Ebury Press £9.99. The ultimate time-saving recipe book for parents from the UK's number 1 bestselling cookery author for children. Easy-to-follow instructions, combined with mouth-watering photography and handy time guides for each recipe make this the go-to book for any parent who wants the best for their children while having to juggle their time.

stock all the ingredients for this recipe and did you know that they offer some of the cheapest organic eggs in Edinburgh?

What not to put in your lunchbox There are lots of foods that are marketed as ‘healthy’ and ‘ideal for lunchboxes’ that are neither. Here are some to avoid: • Cereal bars: many cereal bars contain more than 40 per cent sugar and 30 per cent fat.

• Savoury snacks: cheese strings and similar foods tend to be highly processed and may contain high levels of saturated fat and salt.

• ‘Real fruit’ snacks: saying a product is made with ‘real fruit’ gives it a healthy spin.

But take a closer look at the label and you may find that they contain as much as a whopping 63 per cent sugar!

• Fruit juice ‘drinks’: pure fruit juice contains 100 per cent fruit juice as you would expect. However a ‘fruit juice drink’ can contain as little as 6 percent juice.

You can pack your kids off to school for less at Real Foods simply by signing up to their Early Bird discount scheme which gives you 10% off your shopping at Real Foods between 810am during the week, 9-10am on Saturdays and 10-11am on Sundays. Surely a real help for those trying to budget their family shopping. You can also save money by buying in bulk which comes with a built in discount or by taking advantage of our very popular manager's specials which come at 50% off cost price, change daily and are forecast a week in advance in both of shops and on their Facebook page so that you can plan your shopping trips to take advantage of the offers that best suit you. Oh, not forgetting they also offer 10% discount on case purchases! All offers are subject to conditions, please ask in store or email info@realfoods.co.uk for more information on any of our offers.

37 Broughton Street, Edinburgh, EH1 3JU / tel: 0131 557 1911 – 8 Brougham Street, Tollcross, EH3 9JH / tel: 0131 228 1201 email: info@realfoods.co.uk • www.realfoods.co.uk

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Paternity Frequently Babies born since April this year will be the first to benefit from the new entitlement to Additional Paternity leave. While the government expects that only 4% to 8% of eligible fathers will make use of this right, it will be a welcome addition to family friendly rights for fathers who wish to take on primary childcare responsibilities, or for mothers who are keen to resume their careers. Many parents do not have a clear idea of whether they qualify for paternity leave or what their leave and/or pay entitlements are. Carrie Mitchell answers your questions…

My baby was born in February 2011. With all the press attention last year I thought my husband would be able to take a longer period of paternity leave but his employer has told him that is not the case. Are they right?

Only parents of babies born (or children placed for adoption) after 3 April 2011 qualify for Additional Paternity leave. Your partner should however have been allowed to take up to two weeks Ordinary Paternity leave within 56 days of your baby’s birth, as long as he met the eligibility and notification requirements. During this period he would have claimed Ordinary Statutory Paternity Pay. In order to have been eligible for this leave your partner must have been an employee (in other words not a contractor or consultant) and competed 26 weeks service within 15 weeks of your due date. He must also have given his employer notification of the expected date of confinement and the date he wanted his Ordinary Paternity leave to begin. Similar notification requirements apply to adoptive parents.

If my partner qualifies for Additional Paternity Leave how quickly can I go back to work?

You must take a period of two weeks compulsory maternity leave, but after that how long you choose to take off is up to you. However, there are also restrictions on when your partner can begin his paternity leave and on the amount of pay he can receive.

Additional Paternity leave is for a maximum of 26 weeks and your partner can only take it if you have returned to work. It must be taken between the 20th week and first year after the baby is born or the adoptive child is placed.

In order to qualify for Additional Paternity Leave your partner must have been with their employer for at least 26 weeks by the end of the 15th week before the start of the week the baby is due (or the end of the week you are notified you are matched with your child). He or she must also still be employed by the same employer the week before they want to start their leave.

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Is it correct that if I use up the whole of my statutory maternity pay my husband will not be eligible for paternity pay?

Yes. Statutory paternity pay is available only to the extent that the mother has not used her right to statutory maternity pay. At least two weeks of the 39 weeks of statutory maternity pay period must remain before paternity pay is paid.

Your husband also has to meet two other qualifying criteria to be eligible to receive the Additional Paternity pay. Firstly he must work for an employer who is liable to pay the employer’s share of his class one National Insurance Contributions and secondly he must earn at least the lower earnings limit for National Insurance Contributions.

Unsurprisingly, the rate of Statutory Additional Paternity Pay is the same as the rate of Statutory Maternity Pay – at present, this is £128.73 per week.

My girlfriend wants to return to work after about 6 months maternity leave and I am not sure what information I need to give my employer about taking Additional Paternity leave, please can you explain?

You need to tell your employer in writing at least eight weeks before you want to start your leave. Your employer may have a standard form for you to complete, or alternatively they are available from websites such as www.direct.gov.uk. The form requires information such as the date of birth or placement for adoption, when you want the Additional Paternity Leave and Pay to start and finish (these dates may be different if you are taking a period of unpaid leave), your relationship to the child and the fact that the reason for taking the leave is to care for the child.

The child’s mother or adopter must also sign a declaration setting out details that include their entitlement to statutory maternity pay, their intention to return to work and identifying that their partner is the only person taking Additional Leave or Pay in respect of the child.

I don’t work but am due to have a baby in September.

My husband is keen to be as involved with the baby as possible.

Will he be able to take Additional Paternity Leave?

No. If you do not work yourself, and therefore are not entitled to maternity or adoption leave, pay, or allowance, then you husband will not be entitled to Additional Paternity Leave. He will still be entitled to up to two weeks Ordinary Paternity leave.

We only have one car which is my partner’s company car.

It would cause us significant problems if he didn’t have use of it during his paternity leave. Would he be able to keep it?

As long as the car is provided by the company for private as well as work use, your partner should be able to keep the car during his paternity leave.

Leave –

asked questions My husband is concerned about job security and returning to work after his Additional Leave. Can his employer employ someone else to take over his role?

How the employer covers the absence whilst your husband is on leave is a matter for them. They may hire a temp or they may feel they can re-allocate the work among existing staff. At the end of the period of leave your husband is entitled to return to the same job on the same terms and conditions as if he had not been away. This protection also applies where a period of four weeks parental leave is added on to the Additional Paternity Leave. If your husband takes a longer period of leave than this he should still return to the same job, but if his employer shows that it is not reasonably practicable for him to return to the same job he must be offered suitable alternative employment.

Your husband’s employer cannot dismiss your husband for a reason connected with him taking Paternity Leave. However being on Paternity Leave does not prevent your husband from being made redundant if, for example, his employer closes the section of the business that he works in and all employees are made redundant without any selection process being required.

As with women on maternity leave, your husband would have a special right to be offered any suitable alternative employment available if he was selected for redundancy while on Additional Paternity Leave. This applies even if there are other employees that might be more suitable for the job. To that extent his job security is slightly enhanced by being on Paternity Leave.

Will my husband be able to use his holiday entitlement to extend his Paternity Leave?

Your husband can request that holidays be taken either at the beginning or end of his Paternity Leave. Many women do this at the beginning and end of their maternity leave. However, he would need to go through the usual application process for holidays so the employer may refuse the request if the needs of the business require him to be at work.

My husband doesn’t qualify for Additional Paternity Leave.

What other options does he have?

Your husband has a number of alternatives open to him. He can use his holiday entitlement or request ordinary parental leave. He may also be able to get his employer to agree to a period of extended unpaid leave, but there is no obligation on his employer to grant this.

Carrie Mitchell is a Senior Associate specialising in employment law at Morton Fraser LLP. She works flexibly and is “mummy” to Laura who is 4 ¾ years old and Jessica who is 2 ¾ years old.

IIf you have any questions relating to any of the issues referred to in this article or any other employment related query you can contact Carrie on 0131 247 3193 or at carrie.mitchell@morton-fraser.com

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Mothers'guilt

By Abi Foss

Nothing prepares you for first time motherhood does it?

There is a life BC (before child/children), and an utterly different kind of existence afterwards; one where you are never top priority anymore, where your life revolves around others’ scheduled needs: nap times, school times, meal times, milk times, bath times, bed times. Yes, you are now in service to the next generation. For the rest of your life, you will probably find something about your children to worry about, no matter what age they are. The word ‘mother’, it has been said, is not just a noun. It is a verb.

Fake it till you make it There is this crazy assumption that when motherhood hits, we will somehow, intuitively know what to do; it will all just flow naturally. The reality, I think, goes more like this: we hit the ground running, muddle through and do the best we can. And it is, as they say, just one thing after another. Once we have the routine and sleeping through the night thing nailed, then we have the joys of encouraging them to eat healthily, along with the Herculean challenges of boundary setting. After the umpteenth request to ‘please, do NOT leave your rollerskates at the bottom of the stairs,’ or ‘no, it is not OK to chew on your baby brother’s ear,’ is it any wonder we start sounding like our own frustrated parents when we yell: ‘If I have told you once, I have told you a thousand times... Why don’t you LISTEN??’ Or the classic one that makes me shudder when I imagine my neighbours overhearing it: ‘JUST PUT YOUR ****ING SHOES ON!’ Ooops. Swearing at child. Guilty as charged Your Honour. But can I claim mitigating circumstances? My son practices selective deafness, I was stressed out and we were horribly, horribly late.

Sigh. There goes another few quid in the ‘therapy for when he is older’ box.

Angels in training Mothers aren’t supposed to shout or be cross or tear their hair out or cry and scream with frustration, are we? Especially not in supermarkets. We’re supposed to be sweet and kind and giving and patient and perfect with angelic supplies of unconditional love. We’re not supposed to park them in front of CBeebies for the morning and go back to bed nursing a hangover. No. We must provide educational activities, bake cakes, rustle up fancy dress costumes out of remnants in the recycling box, present a clean and tidy house, organise schooling, lay proper meals on the table and, often, hold down a job and even a marriage too.

But we can’t and we don’t. And we feel guilty about it.

The best advice I ever heard about mothering went something like this: ‘Look, you have to accept that you are going to get it wrong. You are going to make mistakes.

Everyone does. It is the only way you learn. So the best thing you can do is just resolve to love your children as much as you possibly can.’ My rules are that I always apologise for my appalling behaviour and then tell my son I love him. Our biggest mothering mistake really, is believing we shouldn’t be making any.

I have a little sign in my kitchen that reads: ‘mothers are angels in training’.

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Feeling guilty is how we punish ourselves for not reaching impossibly high standards.

I don’t know any mother who thinks she ticks all the ‘perfect mother’ boxes. And you know what? Maybe we are right. Maybe, we weren’t even designed to meet every single one of our children’s needs.

Tribal Heart There is an African saying that goes: ‘It takes a whole village to raise a baby.’ In her book ‘The Spirit of Intimacy’, Sobonfu Some, a woman from the Dagara tribe of West Africa, says that it is also true that it takes a whole village to keep parents sane. In fact, it was not until she was nearly six years old that she understood that she came out of one particular woman’s womb, that she did not biologically ‘belong’ to all of the women in her village who breastfed and cared for her.

We would do well to remember that one-to-one parenting is a pretty recent evolution in our species. Back in the day there would be aunties, sisters, cousins, neighbours and grandmothers all on hand for mass childcare duties. Sobonfu insists that if a child has a problem that their parents can’t sort out, he or she needs to have other adults to turn to. If nothing else, there is a much better chance the child will actually listen to sage advice. Let’s face it: children just don’t like having to listen to their parents. (I mean, did you? I certainly didn’t. Dammit, of course my son doesn’t want to listen to me!)

Hang up your halo ‘Motherhood,’ Oprah once said, ‘is the hardest job in the world. Women everywhere must declare it so.’ In my opinion, it is also the most undervalued, the most rewarding and the most important job in the world too. Hey, we’re at the coalface of building the foundations – the veritable bedrock – of society here. Let’s hang up our halos and, through example, teach our children that we are all on a lifelong learning curve, that we are all lovable despite our imperfections. That, in itself, is a great education.

Abi Foss is a hypnotherapist who writes about all things holistic and spiritual. See: www.abifoss.co.uk

Parent

2

Parent

Susan lives in Leith with daughter Poppy, 16 months and her husband Sam who she runs her photography studio with www.clearphotography.co.uk

Favourite shop: Flux on Bernard street is brilliant. They have a lovely selection both as a treat for yourself or for a unique gift.

Susan and Poppy

Favourite park: Leith Links is our favourite park as it close to home, has so many things to play on and it is enclosed.

However, if we are ever over near the meadows we always stop to play at this park - it is the ultimate!

Favourite children’s club/class: Poppys favourite class is most probably Rhyme Time at Leith Library - she has loved going since she was tiny.

Favourite day out: The Botanic Gardens is a great day out if the weather is good. We then go to Inverleith Park to visit the swans and have a picnic snack on the grass and walk home along the cycle path, via the gorgeous wee shops in Stockbridge!

Favourite child friendly restaurant: I like Loopy Lornas out at Morningside, they are very child friendly - spare wipes and nappies in the baby change, free baby food, plenty of space for buggys, lots of high chairs and an area with toys!

Have yet to find better! Plus the tea and cake is yummy!

Proudest eco-friendly moment: We have been using cloth nappies from day one - she is now 14 months!

Best planet saving tip: Recycling has to be the best tip - I only put out one bin bag a week since I started recycling!

It’s amazing how much you throw out!! It’s hard to find time to be eco-friendly when you are a full time mum but recycling is one thing I try to do regularly - I would love to have a veg patch but have yet to find a spare hour on a nice sunny day to do it!

No parent should be without: Families magazine!! Really though, it is a great resource for what is going on in Edinburgh and the different groups available. The other thing is a camera, I have mine on me at all times to catch all the little things my wee one does - because it is amazing how quickly you forget!

Parenting pet hates: Buses being full and having to fold down the buggy! or not letting you on at all!

Parenting high points (what makes it all worthwhile): Every morning when I’m woken by Poppy chatting (sometimes shouting!) in her cot and when I go through to her she keeks out from behind her rabbit with the biggest smile - that makes it all worth while!

Most embarrassing moment (with child): Going to my first mother and baby group - Poppy was just two weeks old and I was excited to get out with the pram! I got home, a few hours later, to find that I had hot chocolate on my top lip and that I had only put mascara on one eye!

A course for women returning to work Are you looking to return to work after a break?

If you want to feel confident about relaunching your career, develop your computer skills and update your CV and interview technique, then The PCT Partnership's 'Women Returning to Work' course is for you. The course will also re-introduce you to today's working environment and give you guidance and support in finding work.

The 10 week course is funded by Skills Development Scotland and is free if you live in Edinburgh and the Lothians and have been away from work for 13 weeks or more. We’ll have courses starting in September 2011 and February 2012.

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

Funniest comment (from child): Poppy makes me laugh so much every day! She is just 14 months, but her vocabulary is great and has lots of words already! My favourite, and definitely the funniest, is tickle tickle - which sounds more like ‘deeggle leeggle’!

Favourite family holiday spot: Going to grannies house! Or the beach.

Best children’s book: The hungry caterpillar - it was my favourite when I was little and Poppy loves it too - I think it’s because of all the little holes to put her fingers in!

Best children DVD or video: We don’t have one, she is more interested in looking at books than watching the TV! But we did get a DVD from the PLAY TALK scheme with the council that I think is really good.

Most played with toys: At the moment it’s her walker - she dances away while she’s pushing it! And her ball pit!

Biggest waste of money: The blender! I mainly baby led weaned and barely used it! It is good for zizzing up soups though!

Most successful recipe/food: My homemade banana biscuits - I do all her cooking from scratch, but this one stands out best because I feel better knowing what is in her snacks - just oats and banana! So healthy and she really loves them.

Why you like living where you do: I love living in Leith because there are so many baby clubs, groups and free resources here. The links is great for walking - I do a lot of walking - poppy is a short napper and we have a dog!

I also like the way that it feels like a real community.

As parents in Edinburgh you have so much fantastic local knowledge – if you would like to share your favourite bits of being a parent and living in our fantastic city then please email: editor@familiesedinburgh.co.uk 33 families edinburgh ISSUE 68

If you have any events you would like listed free in this section please email them to editor@familiesedinburgh.co.uk

All these events and more can be found on our Until 19 October National Galleries of Scotland Art Competition for Schools 2011.In the eighth year of this highly successful competition, come and see the 53 winning works of art from nursery, primary, secondary and special education schools all inspired by the National Collection. With an Olympic flavour this year, themes include: Celebrate!; Splish, Splash, Splosh; Super Shoes - Higher, Faster, Further; Move Your Body and Traces, Tracks and Trails. IT Gallery, National Gallery Complex Until 16 November Booktrust Best New Illustrators Award 2011 An exhibition of work by the top ten rising stars of picture book illustration in the field today, who demonstrate remarkable creative flair, artistic skill and boundless imagination. The judging panel included Anthony Browne, Children's Laureate and Lauren Child, the author/illustrator of Charlie and Lola Clore Education Centre, National Gallery Complex Until 16 November Katie's Loch Ness Monster Art Competition View the winning entries from Katie's Loch Ness Monster Art Competition for children organised by Orchard Books in 2010. The winner has their very own drawing featured in Katie in Scotland by James Mayhew published this year. How fantastic is that!

Clore Education Centre, National Gallery Complex

Thursday 25 August, Nappuccino, 10am - 11.30am, Duncan Place Resource Centre, Duncan Place (just of Duke St, Leith), Edinburgh, EH6 8HW. Nappuccinos – are informal, free sessions where parents can pop in for a cuppa and a chat about nappies and see the various real nappy options on offer. Parents will be able to speak to others currently using real nappies for practical advice and information. Please note you can drop-in anytime between the sessions hours. Please see www.changeworks.org.uk/events to keep up to date with our events listings.

Friday 26 August, 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 September, 7 October Friday Family Fun 13:30 – 16:30 (drop in) Free. Let out of school early? Make the most of your half-day Friday – come and have some fun with us! Every Friday afternoon during term time we’re putting on extra activities in our galleries and in our Learning Centre. National Museum of Scotland Thursday 1 - Friday 30 September Tarnished Earth 10.00 am - 6.00 pm.

John Hope Gateway decking area. This dramatic outdoor exhibition of photographs

by Jiri Rezac tells the story of tar sands, one of the world’s biggest ecological disasters.

It shows how Canada’s Boreal Forest is being destroyed by oil extraction.

Presented by The Co-operative. Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh 3-4 September Love Pets Scotland LovePets Scotland is the essential show for pet lovers young and old and makes its debut at the Royal Highland Centre, Edinburgh. The event, the first Scottish multi-pet show, will appeal to people and families who are passionate about their pets, from dogs and cats to reptiles and furries. There will be a wealth of animals under one roof to see, touch and interact with. Come and meet experts from the pet industry, talk to them about your pets, get useful tips and advice; and browse the array of products on sale.

Kate & Gin of Britain’s Got Talent fame will be performing routines with dancing dogs on both days. You can also meet Hedwig and Errol, the Harry Potter owls, giant rabbits, Shetland ponies, sphynx cats and lots of exciting reptiles. This is a family event not to be missed! For more information, or to book tickets, visit the Edinburgh page at www.lovepets.me.uk.

Until Sunday 4 September Jungle City Garden wide. Over 100 animals will be taking up residence at the Botanics as part of Jungle City, a major charity event to raise money for endangered Asian wildlife. From 16 August to 4 September visitors to the Garden will be able to see over 100 painted sculptures of animals, reptiles and birds.

Created to fund the work of Elephant Family, the exhibition will also benefit a further six UK conservation charities. The animals, including tigers, orangutans, crocodiles and hornbills, will be sold at a grand charity auction on 29 September. Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh Until Sunday 4 September To the Far West 10.00 am - 5.00 pm. Temperate Lands Glasshouse Foyer. The 2011 Edinburgh International Festival will bring exotic and diverse cultures from Asia to Edinburgh. See work created by local school children in response to Festival 2011’s themes and ideas throughout the year. www.eif.co.uk Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh Daily during August and September Explore Time 10:30 – 16:30 (drop in).

Free. Get the most out of our new family galleries. Enablers in Imagine and Adventure Planet help you and your family discover even more about the stories these galleries tell.

National Museum of Scotland

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Saturday 3rd September The National Childbirth Trust Edinburgh South Nearly New Sale 10.00am-11.45am. Craiglockhart Parish Church, EH14 1HS. (Craiglockhart Drive North) Quality baby / children’s clothes, toys, books, nursery equipment & maternity wear. Coffees, teas and home baking.

NCT members early entry 9.45a. Become a member at www.nctpregnancyandbabycare.com/home Admission by donation. Other enquires: 08442436124 or email: mhairibagnall@hotmail.com Saturday 3rd September Polwarth Children's Nearly New Sale 11am - 1pm. Polwarth Church, 38 Polwarth Terrace, Edinburgh.

Come along and bag a great bargain at fantastic prices. Lots of good quality toys, nursery equipment, maternity and children's clothes. Entry by donation, suggested amount £1-£2. Donations of good quality toys and equipment gratefully received.

Contact donations@nearlynewsale.org.uk www.nearlynewsale.org.uk This sale will be supporting The Sick Kid's Hospital Edinburgh and The Polwarth Church Repair Fund Saturday 3 - Sunday 4 September Edible Garden – Crops and Seeds 1.00 pm - 4.00 pm. Real Life Science Studio, John Hope Gateway Fancy growing your own vegetables but don’t know where to start? Pop in for some friendly advice from the Edible Gardening team and have a go at sowing some seeds to take home. Part of the Edible Gardening Project. Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh

While every care has been taken to compile the OUT AND ABOUT section please remember that this magazine is printed weeks ahead of the events. PLEASE call and check events with the venue to avoid any disappointment before setting out.

website www.familiesedinburgh.co.uk Saturday 3 September Pretty Paper Birdies Mobiles.

Either 10.30 am-12.30pm or 1.30pm - 3.30 pm Inspired by the lovely birds on our beautiful painted ceiling, made a some lovely paper birds to decorate your room. With Artist Tessa Asquith-Lamb. Booking is essential for the workshops, contact Margaret Findlay on 0131 529 3963. margaret.findlay@edinburgh.gov.uk Museum of Edinburgh, Huntly House, 142 Canongate, Royal Mile, Edinburgh, EH8 8DD

Saturday 10, Sunday 11 September,Archaeology Detectives 13:00 – 16:00 (timed slots, book on day), Free. Become an archaeologist for the afternoon in this hands-on workshop supported by Archaeology Scotland. See what evidence you can excavate in our reconstruction dig pit, sort through your finds and try out some ancient technologies. See www.nms.ac.uk/families for details of how to take part. National Museum of Scotland

Sunday 4 September 2-4pm Art Cart (Ages 3-12) Free drop-in art activities for all the family led by artists Tessa Asquith-Lamb and Louise Fraser. Each month, there's something new to create inspired by different works from the collection or exhibitions. Supported by the Friends of the National Galleries of Scotland. Scottish National Gallery Sunday 4th September Tall Trees Join in the fun and become a leaf collector and learn about the different types of trees.

Children will get to make a leaf scrap book and plant their own sapling. For full details on times and how to join Dobbies Little Seedlings Club contact Dobbies Garden World Melville – 0131 663 1941.

From Wednesday 7 September Magic Carpet Every Wed in term time 10:30 (45 mins) Free. Our magic carpet introduces your wee ones to some of the fantastic things to see and do in our museum. Join us as the carpet visits a different gallery each week for fun activities, stories and songs. See www.nms.ac.uk/families for details of how to take part. National Museum of Scotland, Chambers Street Friday 9th September Pre - Mod Family Concert 1.30pm A pre-mod fundraising concert followed by afternoon tea. An opportunity to enjoy a range of performances by the pupils of Tollcross Primary School who will be competing in the National Mod in Lewis in October. All proceeds from the concert will go towards the school excursion to the Mod in October and the kilt fund to buy kilts for the Gaelic choir. Tickets £6 for Adults and £3 for children. Under twos free.

Please contact Tollcross Primary for tickets. Tel 0131 229 7828

Sunday 11 September, 2-4pm Portrait Detectives! (Ages 3-12) Become a Portrait Detective for the afternoon! Collect your kit, follow clues and help solve crimes by characters from Scottish history. Led by artists Paula Flavell and Duncan Robertson. Supported by the friends of the National Galleries of Scotland.

Scottish National Gallery Saturday 17th September Beach Clean at Cramond What nicer way to spend the morning than at the beach? The Marine Conservation Society (MCS) will be holding a beach clean at Cramond on from 10am-12noon, and all are welcome. Meet at the start of the Cramond Island causeway at 10am. Please wear suitable outdoor clothing and sturdy footwear. For further information contact Anne Saunders on 07894 566624 or anne.saunders@mcsuk.org

Saturday 10th September Ceol is Coiridh 6.30pm A pre-mod fundraising concert followed by a delicious curry supper. An opportunity to enjoy a range of performances by the pupils of Tollcross Primary School who will be competing in the National Mod in Lewis in October. All proceeds from the concert will go towards the school excursion to the Mod in October and the kilt fund to buy kilts for the Gaelic choir. Tickets £10 for Adults and £3 for children.

Please contact Tollcross Primary for tickets. Tel 0131 229 7828.

Saturday 10 September - Sunday 4 December Transformations 10.00 am - 6.00 pm Gateway Gallery, upstairs in the John Hope Gateway Exhibiting for the first time outside Ireland, visitors can see the beautifully crafted work of the West Cork Craft and Design Guild. Working in textiles, ceramics, wood or metal these artists are inspired not only by their materials but by the landscape. Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh Saturday 10 - Sunday 11 September Flower Power 1.00 pm -4.00 pm 5+ | FREE. Real Life Science Studio, John Hope Gateway Why not have a go at making your own remedy or posy of flowers and herbs and discover the medicinal properties of common flowers often found in our own back gardens. Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh

Saturday 17 – Sunday 18 September Edible Gardening Project Harvest Festival. ALL AGES | FREE. 1.00pm – 4.00pm. John Hope Gateway.

Celebrate the Harvest Festival with the Edible Gardening team and local community projects. The summer’s crop will be on display so come along and be inspired to start planning your own edible garden for 2012. Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh

The

Big Draw 2011

19 – 23 October 11am – 3pm Why not pop in to paint some ceramics and let the children burn off energy in our soft play. We are the perfect venue for birthday parties, school outings, Cubs, Brownies and Hen parties. We have hundreds of ceramics to choose from for some painting fun and there is no need to book.

Discover intrigue and conspiracy in Mary’s historic tower and build your own model with a secret staircase!

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All these events and more can be found on our Sunday 18 September 2-4pm Bags of Art (Ages 3-12) Collect a bag of activities from the art station to help your family explore the collection and create your own artworks. Led by artists Tessa Asquith-Lamb and Louise Fraser.

Supported by the Friends of the National Galleries of Scotland. Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art Sunday 18 September Talking Trees Storytelling 5+ | FREE. 2.00 pm – 2.30pm & 3.00pm - 3.30 pm Patrick Geddes Room, upstairs in the John Hope Gateway Enjoy tall tales from the Talking Trees Storytellers in the beautiful setting of the Gateway’s airy Patrick Geddes Room. Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh 19th September International Pirate Day! Ahoy there - Come dressed as a Pirate to DOODLES and we will give you 20% off pottery painted on the day.

There will also be a prize for the best pirate costume and a prize for the best pirate themed pottery painted on the day. Offer on all day 10am - 6pm. Please call us on 0131 229 1399 to book your place Thursday 22 September Story Space 11am (45mins) £6 per child Age 3–6yrs Mischief Tales! Come and hear stories of meddling monkeys, naughty gnomes and troublesome trolls. With Daniel Allison.

Scottish Storytelling Centre, 43-45 High Street, Edinburgh, EH1 1SR Thursday 22 September Nappuccino, 1.00pm - 2.30pm, Blackhall Library, 56 Hillhouse Road, Edinburgh, EH4 5EG. Nappuccinos – are informal, free sessions where parents can pop in for a cuppa and a chat about nappies and see the various real nappy options on offer. Parents will be able to speak to others currently using real nappies for practical advice and information.

Please note you can drop-in anytime between the sessions hours. Please see www.changeworks.org.uk/events to keep up to date with our events listings.

Saturday 24th September Esk Valley NCT - Nearly New Sale: Baby & Children's clothes, toys and nursery equipment. 1pm to 2.30pm at Newtongrange Parish Chuch Hall, 116 Main Street, Newtongrange, EH22 4PG (15 mins from Cameron Toll). Come along and find a bargain. For further information or to sell please e-mail: eskvalleynct@hotmail.com.

Saturday 24 September, Doors Open Day: John Knox House 10am–6pm, Open House Free (but ticketed) entry to John Knox House as part of Doors Open Day. A wonderful opportunity to explore one of Scotland's greatest cultural treasures, associated with the most dramatic events in Scotland's turbulent history.

On three floors, the exhibition highlights the buildings beautiful craftsmanship and the stories of its famous inhabitants. Come close to the most dramatic conflicts in Scotland's history.

Saturday 24 - Sunday 25 September Ferns and Fossils 11.00 am - 4.00 pm 5+ | FREE. Real Life Science Studio, John Hope Gateway Ferns were around long before the dinosaurs and are still found in most environments today. Discover the secrets of their success with activities, demonstrations and displays that will introduce fern biology, reproduction and evolution. With the British Pteridological Society. Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh

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Saturday 24 &Sunday 24 September

Edinburgh Doors Open Day 2011 Organised by the Cockburn Association Edinburgh has a rich sporting culture and heritage with many sporting heroes. With the Olympic Games on the horizon and the Commonwealth Games coming to Scotland in 2014 we are following a sporting theme for this year’s Edinburgh Doors Open Day. Many of the venues have a direct link to sports or have addressed the theme in the displays and activities taking place over the weekend.

Highlights for families include: The Heritage Detectives, a lively, hilarious, incidentally accidentally informative story of how Crimes Against Heritage will be investigated, the culprits unmasked and brought to book! Simpson House (venue 14) Saturday 24 August, 1pm & 3pm.

Portobello Swim Centre has a special swimming session for adults & children Sunday 2 – 4pm Lothian Buses Central Depot is always a popular venue with families; trips through the bush wash, sit behind the steering wheel and guess which sport is associated with the building.

There will be a children’s I-spy game at The Old Calton Burial Ground.

Take a photo of your Scottish sporting hero along to the Laser Cutting Studio at WASPS Studios, Patriothall, where Jenny will demonstrate the laser cutter on a selection of them.

Try your hand and mind at a game of chess with The Edinburgh Chess Club, 1 Alva Street. Or a game of croquet for the over 12s at The Meadows Croquet Club.

Tynecastle Stadium opens its doors for guided tours, bookable in advance, and plenty of fun activities for youngsters.

Water of Leith Visitor Centre, Edinburgh Sheriff Court, Museum of Fire, Edinburgh Steiner School, Kindergarten Building, The Royal Observatory, Inch Park Sports Community Club, Castles with Crichton at Inch House,

Craigmillar Police Station, Harmeny School, Balerno and Edinburgh International Climbing Arena are all excellent venues for the family for a bumper packed Doors Open Day. Check our website and facebook for programme additions and updates… www.cockburnassociation.org.uk www.facebook.com/pages/cockburn-association/127366580612666

website www.familiesedinburgh.co.uk Tuesday 27 September Tiny Tales. 10 & 11.30am (40mins) £5 per child Age 6mths-2yrs. Bring along your teddy or other favourite cuddly friend to join in lots of fun songs, tales and rhymes with Marie Louise Cochrane.

Scottish Storytelling Centre, 43-45 High Street, Edinburgh, EH1 1SR Wednesday 28 September Big Ears, Little Ears A short orchestral concert for parents and babies to enjoy together. Music by Beethoven, Prokofiev, Mendelssohn, Bartok and Scottish folksongs and Lullabies. Conductor – Howard Moody, Mezzo Soprano – Karen Cargill. Queens Hall, Edinburgh 0131 668 2019 www.thequeenshall.net. For more information go to www.sco.org.uk/net Thursday 29 September - Sunday 22 January Forgotten Forests at the Gateway. 10.00 am - 6.00 pm John Hope Gateway, ground floor. ALL AGES FREE. Journey into our forgotten forest, presented by Starcatchers, which will engage, entertain and ensure that some forests at least will never be forgotten. With your participation the forest will grow and evolve over time. Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh Thursday 29 September, Nappuccino, 10am - 11.30am, Duncan Place Resource Centre, Duncan Place (just of Duke St, Leith), Edinburgh, EH6 8HW Nappuccinos – are informal, free sessions where parents can pop in for a cuppa and a chat about nappies and see the various real nappy options on offer. Parents will be able to speak to others currently using real nappies for practical advice and information.

Please note you can drop-in anytime between the sessions hours. Please see www.changeworks.org.uk/events to keep up to date with our events listings.

Saturday 1 October Make you own Uniform Accessory.

Either 10.30 am-12.30pm or 1.30pm - 3.30 pm. Using the uniforms in the collection as a starting point, design and make your own crown, sword or shield. With artist Morag Macdonald. Booking is essential for the workshops, contact Margaret Findlay on 0131 529 3963 margaret.findlay@edinburgh.gov.uk Museum of Edinburgh, Huntly House, 142 Canongate, Royal Mile Edinburgh, EH8 8DD Saturday 1 October, 11am-4pm The Big Draw (All ages) Start by looking at the amazing work of Tony Cragg then whatever your age or experience, come and join us for the day to help create some wild and impressive drawings. Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art Sunday 2 October 2-4pm Art Cart (Ages 3-12) Free drop-in art activities for all the family led by artists Tessa Asquith-Lamb and Louise Fraser. Each month, there's something new to create inspired by different works from the collection or exhibitions. Supported by the Friends of the National Galleries of Scotland. Scottish National Gallery Sunday 2nd October Fairies & Dinosaurs Come along in your best fancy dress to this magical workshop. Children can either make a fairy garden or a dinosaur garden and can go on a magical treasure hunt throughout the store. For full details on times and how to join Dobbies Little Seedlings Club please contact Dobbies Garden World Melville – 0131 663 1941 Wednesday 5, Saturday 8, Wednesday 19 & Saturday 22 October

Explore the forgotten forest 10.30am & 1pm (50 mins), Ages 0 – 2 and

their adults. Wed 12, Sat 15, Weds 26 & Sat 29 Oct 10.30am & 1pm (50 mins), Ages 2 – 4 and their adults. £3. John Hope Gateway, ground floor. To book phone 0131 248 2981 or at forestenquiries@gmail.com, pay on the day at the Botanics Shop. These unforgettable forgotten forests adventures run by Starcatchers resident artists combine creative participation and interactive performance to explore the forgotten forests themes with the under fives. Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh Saturday 8 - Sunday 9 October Scotland’s Plants and Fungi 1.00 pm - 4.00pm. Real Life Science Studio, John Hope Gateway. 5+ FREE Find out more about Plantlife Scotland and the work they do for Scotland’s plants and fungi. There will be hands-on activities for all ages. Come along and get involved with plant conservation across the country. With Plantlife Scotland. Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh Sunday 9 October Making Memories Workshop 13:00 – 16:00 (Drop-in) Take part in a unique object storytelling workshop, making memories about something that is important to you or your family. Bring your own object – it could be a wooden spoon, a toy or a photograph. Using audio and video, we collect stories to create a digital archive of memories. National Museum of Scotland

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All these events and more can be found on our Saturday 9th October – Sunday 30th October Spooky Happenings As the days grow shorter, strange creatures begin to emerge from the the darkest and scariest corners of the old mill and farm buildings. Encounter unearthly creatures on a trail of terror, collect the clues and claim a small prize for your bravery. Join in with creepy crafts and gruesome games, and have a spine-tingling good time. Almond Valley Heritage Trust, Millfield, Livingston, West Lothian, Scotland, EH54 7AR. tel 01506 414957 Standard admission costs £5.50 for adults and £4.00 for children aged 3-17 and senior citizens. A family ticket covering two adults and up to two children is available at £17. Unaccompanied children are not admitted.

Thursday 13th October Dobbies Christmas Charity Night 5pm – 9pm Join us for the launch of the Christmas shopping season and preview our Christmas product range while supporting Dobbies nominated Christmas Charity. Ticket £1 and can be purchased from your nearest store from 25th September. www.dobbies.com or contact Dobbies Garden World Melville – 0131 663 1941.

Saturday 15 – Sunday 23 October Half-term Animal Antics Free. October is all about our fantastic Natural History collections…so we’re going animal daft! Tracking them, discovering them, drawing them and even handling them – there’s lots of fun ways to get involved this half-term. National Museum of Scotland Saturday 15 – Sunday 16 October The Big Draw: Animal Art 12:00 – 16:00 (Drop-in) Free. Join us for 2 days of animal art activities inspired by our natural history galleries as we take part in the UK’s annual month long drawing festival.

All materials provided. National Museum of Scotland Sunday 16 October Talking Trees Storytelling 2.00 pm – 2.30pm & 3.00pm - 3.30 pm 5+ FREE. Patrick Geddes Room, upstairs in the John Hope Gateway Let the Talking Trees transport you to another place with their stories from around the world. Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh 16th October Apple Day, 12-3pm Join us at Inveresk for a celebration of the fruit grown in our small orchard. A day of fun for all the family as we celebrate our fruit trees. Games for the kids, wildlife and orchards walk and more! * Enter our apple cookery competition! Make your favourite apple related recipe and bring it in for the 3pm judging! £1 entry fee* Adults £3.50, concessions £2, families £8. National Trust for Scotland, Inveresk Lodge Gardens, 24 Inveresk Village, Musselburgh, EH21 7TE. More information on 0844 493 2126 or inveresklodgegarden@nts.org.uk Sunday 16 October 2-4pm Bags of Art (Ages 3-12) Collect a bag of activities from the art station to help your family explore the collection and create your own artworks. Led by artists Tessa Asquith-Lamb and Louise Fraser.

Supported by the Friends of the National Galleries of Scotland. Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art

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17 October Hallowe’en Thrills Have a spookily good day out with the kids at the Education Cabin and find out: What happens to your waste, Who is brave enough to take a closer look at the amazing beasties that live in your compost heap, How to make Hallowe’en masks and outfits from recycled materials…and much more! 11-3pm at Seafield Community Recycling Centre, Fillyside Road, Edinburgh, EH7 6RD. For more information call 0131 469 5070 or email wasteaction@edinburgh.gov.uk Monday 17 October Wicked Grim(m) Tales 11am & 2pm £6/£4 Age 7+ Two actresses, two brothers and a whole lot of grim stories to share between them!

If you dare to come along and listen to some of the lesser known stories collected by the famous German brothers in this fast paced show which celebrates the fairy tales' original gruesome content. Louna Productions will make you shriek with laughter and tremble with fear, so make sure you are ready for this feisty storytelling experience with not a single dainty princess in sight!

Scottish Storytelling Centre, 43-45 High Street, Edinburgh, EH1 1SR Monday 17 – Sunday 23 October Gallery Safaris 11:30 (20mins) 15:30 (20mins) Free Half term sees the launch of our new family Gallery Safaris – short interactive treks through the museum exploring different galleries, objects and themes. Half term safaris are all animal-tastic: look high, look low and expect the unexpected!

Look out for more safaris as part of our regular family programme. National Museum of Scotland Monday 17 – Friday 21 October Mega and Mini Beast handling Sessions. 11:00, 12:00, 14:00, 15:00 (45mins). Free. Sign up for a place on the day. Join our friends from Zoolab as they bring you face to face with some curious creatures. Get hands-on and find out some fascinating facts!

National Museum of Scotland Tuesday 18 October Tiny Tales 10am & 11.30am £5 per child Age 6mths-2yrs Snuggle in and get comfortable with your youngsters in this interactive environment of story sharing, rhymes, songs and simple movement to capture the imagination of babies and adults alike. Scottish Storytelling Centre, 43-45 High Street, Edinburgh, EH1 1SR 18th October – Migration Mayhem, 10-11.30am There are lots of comings and goings in the animal kingdom at this time of year, but why? Find out as we play some games and spend some time looking for birds on the Estate. Children £3, accompanying adults free, booking essential. Suitable for age 7 and up. National Trust for Scotland, Newhailes, Newhailes Road, Musselburgh, East Lothian, EH21 6RY. Booking and more information on 0844 493 2124 or lothianranger@nts.org.uk

website www.familiesedinburgh.co.uk 19 – 23 October The Big Draw 2011

Mary, Queen of Scots: Marriage, Murder and Conspiracy!

11:00 – 15:00. Visit us during the half-term holidays and find out what life was like at the Palace during the time of Mary, Queen of Scots. Discover intrigue and conspiracy as you explore Mary’s rooms and capture the sights in a special Palace sketchbook. Don’t forget to drop into the Palace Family Room and make a model of Mary’s tower complete with hidden spiral staircase and figures of the queen, Lord Darnley and David Rizzio!

Palace of Holyroodhouse and The Queen’s Gallery, Edinburgh All family activities are free with standard admission to the Palace/Gallery or a valid 1 Year Pass. Adult: £10.50 / Over 60/Student (with valid ID): £9.50 / Under 17: £6.35 / Under 5: Free / Family (2 Adults and 3 under 17s): £27.80 1 YEAR PASS! Enjoy free re-admission for a year if you buy your tickets directly from us.

Simply ask us to stamp your ticket on your first visit – a great way to fill the school holidays at no extra cost! 0131 556 5100 www.royalcollection.org.uk/learning Thursday 20 October Story Space 11am £6 per child Age 3-6yrs The perfect way to experience modern tale-making, develop interaction skills and have fun with delightful little adventures for little people.

Scottish Storytelling Centre, 43-45 High Street, Edinburgh, EH1 1SR Sat 22nd and Sun 23rd October Halloween Ghouls and Ghosts Drop in at anytime over this weekend and we’ll show you some fabulous techniques for turning bowls, mugs and plates into your own ‘Spooky ‘ creations. These will be fired in time for you to collect before Halloween on the 31st…..www.honeypotceramics.com or call us on: 0131-333-6348 Saturday 22 October Meet the Author: Francesca Simon 12:00 (60mins). Free. Booking advisable on 0300 123 6789 An extra special family event for October half term. Francesca Simon, author of the fantastic Horrid Henry books is launching her new children’s book, The Sleeping Army (for age 9 plus), based around the Lewis Chessmen. Join Francesca to hear readings from the book and to find out about her inspiration for this exciting new story. National Museum of Scotland. Followed by Lewis Chessmen-themed family drop-in activities. In partnership with Edinburgh International Book Festival Saturday 22 - Sunday 23 October The Chemistry of Autumn 1.00 pm - 4.00 pm Real Life Science Studio, John Hope Gateway. ALL AGES. FREE. A wide range of fun family activities to celebrate the science behind the beautiful seasonal colours in the garden’s arboretum. With the School of Chemistry, University of Edinburgh and the Centre for Wood Science and Technology, Edinburgh Napier University. Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh

Sunday 23 October 2.00 pm - 2.45 pm Tales of the Forest and the Sea (for families). Patrick Geddes Room, upstairs in the John Hope Gateway. Book via the Scottish International Storytelling Festival on 0131 556 9579, £3 concessions.

Tales of the forest will be woven with tales of the sea in this special collaboration between the Botanics’ Talking Trees Storytellers and harpist Heather Yule. Part of the Scottish International Storytelling Festival. £4. Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh Friday 28th October 6pm-9pm Friday Fright Night Doors re-open after dark for traditional Halloween games, a moonlight trail, and a ghost train journey into the depths of the night. Come dressed to kill.

Almond Valley Heritage Trust, Millfield, Livingston, West Lothian, Scotland, EH54 7AR. tel 01506 414957 Standard admission costs £5.50 for adults and £4.00 for children aged 3-17 and senior citizens. A family ticket covering two adults and up to two children is available at £17. Unaccompanied children are not admitted.

Saturday 29th & Sunday 30th October Halloween Treasure Hunt Children are invited to take part in a Halloween themed treasure hunt to find the Halloween characters haunting Dobbies – there will be a yummy treat if you catch them all. For further information about all events at Dobbies please visit www.dobbies.com or contact Dobbies Garden World Melville – 0131 663 1941.

Saturday 29 - Sunday 30 October Edible Gardening at Hallowe’en 1.00 pm - 4.00 pm Real Life Science Studio, John Hope Gateway. Fancy growing your own vegetables but don’t know where to start? Pop in for some friendly advice from the Edible Gardening team, and have a go at planting garlic to keep those vampires at bay! Part of the Edible Gardening Project funded by the People’s Postcode Lottery.

29th October Halloween at the Mill – Spooky Stories Join local storyteller Fiona Herbert to hear some wonderful folk tales, marvellous myths and amazing legends linked to the natural world as we roam around Preston Mill.

A perfect not-too-scary Halloween event for families.

3pm for 8 year olds and under, 4pm for the over 8s. £4 kids, £2 adults National Trust for Scotland, Preston Mill, East Linton, EH40 3DS Booking and more information on 0844 493 2125 or newhailes@nts.org.uk Sunday 30th October, 3-5pm Halloween Party We’ll be making spooky potions and creepy crawly bath bombs followed by a ‘Halloween Feast’ – fit for - Ghouls, Ghosts, Witches and friends…..

The fun starts at 3pm, price £12 per head (includes potion and bath bombs).

Booking and dressing up essential…… at: www.honeypotceramics.com or call us on: 0131-333-6348.

Sunday 6th November Bump & Baby Fair, Marriott Dalmahoy 11am-4pm With an array of exhibitors relating to many aspects of pregnancy, birth, babies and toddlers, the event is a great opportunity to try before you buy, find out what services are available locally and grab some great bargains at exhibitors’ stands.

Visit www.bumpandbabyfair.co.uk

• Acupuncture • Baby massage • Baby and child shiatsu • Baby yoga • Cognitive hypnotherapy • Craniosacral • Fertility therapy • Homoeopathy • HypnoBirthing • Oriental herbs • Parenting classes • Pregnancy massage • Pregnancy pilates • Pregnancy shiatsu • Pregnancy yoga

Healthy Conception Healthy Pregnancy Healthy Birth Healthy Baby and Child

Come and BounCe around at edinBurgh’s

neWest trampoline, aCtivity & party Centre

unit 2-3, 109 restalrig road, edinburgh eh6 7ny tel: 0131 553 7676 www.clownaround.me.uk

www.thehealthylifecentre.com

0131 229 0724

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Copyright Š Families Magazine 2000. We take every care preparing this magazine, but the publishers and distributors cannot be held responsible for the claims of advertisers nor for the accuracy of the contents nor for any consequence. Colour transparencies and any other original materials submitted for publication are sent at owner’s risk and, while every care is taken, neither Families Edinburgh nor its agents accept liability for loss or damage. Families Edinburgh is part of the Families group, established in 1990 and headed by Families South West. All franchised magazines in the group are independently owned and operated under licence. Copyright Š on all artwork designed by Families shall remain with Families or contributor.