Families Fife Issue 7 May - June 2011

FREE Issue 7 May/June 2011

Inco rporating Perth & Kinross

Happy Birthday!

All about parties, what to do, where to do it and who to bring in...

plus

A cut out and keep contacts list

The really useful magazine for families in the Fife region: • What’s on guide • Health & wellbeing advice • Book reviews

Pick up your copy in Dunfermline  Glenrothes  Kirkcaldy  Perth  Kinross  Cupar  St Andrews or a village in between

Contents The smart money mum Mums - Put £3000 back in your pocket!

Nicole Diamond is founder of The Jack & Jill Market, the quality nearly-new baby & children’s market where Smart Mums Sell and Save. The Smart Money Mum is a trademark of The Jack & Jill Market. See Out and About for next markets near you

A

survey commissioned by New Woman Magazine found that British Women spend over £3000 per year on beauty products and treatments. These can be very expensive and many of them contain ingredients that can actually damage your skin. Acccording to Eastern Ayuvedic Tradition, you should never put anything on your skin that you wouldn’t be prepared to put in your mouth and eat!

Achieve a truly beautiful you without spending a fortune simply by raiding your food cupboard.

Eyes: Love your crow’s feet? That’s great! If not, place crushed grapes around the eye area and leave for 20 minutes before washing off. The alpha-hydroxy fruit acids are great for removing wrinkles. Repeat daily and watch wrinkles and crow’s feet vanish. Finish off by moisturizing with almond or avocado oil, easily found in your local grocery shop.

Skin: Want shining, smooth, youthful skin? Don’t spend money on expensive microdermabrasion treatments. Lemon juice is rich with fruit acids and when mixed with sugar is great for removing dead skin cells

and for smoothing out your complexion by bleaching darkened and discolored areas. It’s also rich in Vitamin C which stimulates the collagen in your skin, helping to reduce aging. Moisten your face, grab a handful of sugar and massage over your skin, chop a lemon in half and rub over your face – keeping your eyes closed! Leave for 5 minutes then rinse off. Finish off by moisturising with olive oil; a deep nourishing oil leaving your skin supple and hydrated.

Teeth: Want whiter teeth and a Hollywood smile? The good news is that expensive whitening treatments are not necessary. Mash strawberries in a small container, cover your toothbrush with the mashed berries and brush vigorously.

Strawberries will remove both yellowing and stains.

Hair: For soft, shiny locks there’s no need to spend a fortune on salon products.

Deeply condition your hair by heating ½ cup of mayonnaise or olive oil in your microwave for 15 seconds. Apply to dry hair, wrap in cling-film, and leave for 20 minutes. Then rinse hair with warm water and shampoo as normal.

Your hair will look and feel sensational. 

Inco rporating Perth & Kinross 3 Welcome to Families Fife 4 Who, What, Where, When: Local family news and update 5 Book Corner Storytime: Children’s author shares her favourite books 6 Birth, Baby and Beyond: Updates for mums to be and new mums 7 Energy and Wellbeing: Advice on looking after no.1 as well as the children 8 Birthday Parties: Plan your way to the perfect day 12 Party Contacts: Handy cut out and keep guide 13 Out and About: Your guide to what’s on locally for families 14 Parent to Parent: With Morag Thompson, from Milnathort 15 Clubs and Classes: Updated class listings

Contact us

Families Fife, PO Box 29205, Dunfermline, KY12 2BL Editor: Susan Kirkwood, editor@familiesfife.co.uk Tel: 01383 735938 or 07734 289 143 Design: White Creative www.whitecreative.co Circulation: 12,000 copies printed. Distributed free of charge throughout Fife, Perth and Kinross by kind permission of Fife Libraries, Fife Leisure Centres, antenatal clinics, health visitors, surgeries, community use schools, Theatres in Fife and Perth, places of historic interest, local attractions, selected shops and playgroups and play centres.

Print: J Thomson. Due care was taken to source print and other services required to produce this magazine from within the local area.

Next issue is Issue 8: July/August Deadline: 03 June Out: 24th June 2011 Families Fife© is a part of a larger group of magazines headed by Families SW London©. All franchised magazines are independently owned and operated under license. 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 consequences. Any original materials submitted for publication are sent at owner’s own risk and, while every care is taken, neither Families nor its agents accept liability for loss or damage.

2 | Families Fife Issue 7

Where Smart Mums Sell & Save

0-9 yea r s

Perth Dewars Conference Centre

Sun 1 May

Perth Dewars Conference Centre

Sat 4 June

Dunfermline The V ine Venue

Sat 11 June

All markets 10.30 am—1.30 pm

T

oday’s kids have high expectations of their birthday bash – it’s the highlight of their year which is why this year’s parties feature is absolutely packed with tips, suggestions and contacts for you to help with planning their perfect day. Loyal readers will remember that the birthday issue was indeed the one which kick started Families Fife last year meaning that now, 6 issues later, we’ve come full circle. So from me it’s a big thank you to all our readers and advertisers for your continued enthusiasm and support for the magazine – I couldn’t do it without you!

Right, that’s enough of that, it’s not the BAFTAs...

Do bear in mind when you’re reading the magazine that we also have a website which is now regularly updated with new articles, more up to date What’s On listings (www. familiesfife.co.uk/whatson) as well as help and advice on many child related topics via our Families Online magazine group.

Please get in touch with ideas, feedback, advertising queries and whatever else. I love hearing from readers if only to reassure myself I have some!

Happy Birthday Families Fife!  Susan Kirkwood, Editor

01721 725 879

www.jackandjillmarket.co.uk

You name it We label it!

Lunchboxes • Water Bottles Books • Uniforms • Footwear

T: 01635 298326 www.easy2name.com

NCT Nearly New Sale Sat 7th May 12-2*pm The Vine Church 131 Garvock Hill Dunfermline. Info: 0844 243 6110 or HPDLO ¿IHQFW QQV#KRWPDLO FR XN *(DUO\ HQWU\ DP IRU 1&7 0HPEHUV ZLWK YDOLG PHPEHUVKLS FDUGV

WEST & CENTRAL FIFE NCT www.nct.org.uk/in-your-area/dunfermline

yoga

3 3

X Pendants X Charms X Cufflinks X Keyrings X Beautiful pieces of handcrafted silver jewellery. Capture hand and footprints or even turn a treasured picture on the fridge into a miniature work of art.

For further details please contact Abi on

abig@smallp.co.uk or 07747 707527 o.uk www.smallp.c

Capture your child’s fingerprint in polished silver...

 Call Susan on 07734 289 143 to advertise here

release & invigorate

classes & workshops pregnancy & birth baby & postnatal general mixed ability

3

Dunfermine Inverkeithing S. Queensferrry Edinburgh

Susannah Dean

IYT, BWY, YogaBirth, IAIM

01383 413121

www.theyoga.co.uk Issue 7 Families Fife | 3

News: Who, What, Where, When …

Re:make - craft in Crieff

r

e:make’s craft and construction workshops encourage children and adults to make beautiful and useful things using found objects and their imagination.

Set up as a social enterprise in Comrie Croft hostel near Crieff, re:make is concerned with community, educational and environmental issues.

Profits are reinvested into the business to support subsided placements for at-risk youth.

Fiona, one half of the husband and wife team behind the classes said ‘Crafting from reclaimed materials encourages creative thought, fine motor skills and an enterprising approach to life. And, participants can feel good about helping to reduce landfill while having fun!’

Danny, the other half of the team is a housemaster and daring teacher of science, geography & IT at Ardvreck Prep School. Fiona is a trained glass artist currently exhibiting at Perth Museum and Art Gallery, who grew up around the workshops

is an education programme for children with learning difficulties Bal-A-Vis-X (Balance -Auditory- VisioneXercise) was developed by respected teacher and writer Bill Hubert over thirty years ago to help children with special educational needs in his own classroom when he was a primary school teacher.

Why is it effective?

and studios of Balbirnie Craft Centre in Fife so both have great credentials for their chosen enterprise. Re:make launch their new website www.remakescotland. co.uk on 1st June. Summer workshops (see website for details) will take place again at Comrie Croft hostel off the A85 just 4 miles from Crieff. Materials, tools and instruction are included

and workshops vary from full day and half day with prices from £10 to £50. Some sessions require an adult to be present.  If you would like more information or to donate materials for workshops such as egg boxes, pallets, large glass jars or fabric, please contact Fiona at fiona. remake@gmail.com. See Out and About for other dates.

No more bumps in the night

T

he Bed Bumper is an innovative new bed guard with none of the fiddly assembly, clamps and screws, or special sheets that other bed guards require. It is a firm foam wedge that sits directly onto the mattress and fitting it couldn’t be easier. All you need to do is place the bed bumper onto the mattress, remake the bed, pulling the sheets over the bumper and tuck them in. The Bed Bumper is 13cm high and creates a soft ’bumper’ along the open edge of the bed which is both discreet and effective. You can all sleep soundly knowing that your child can safely roll up against The Bed Bumper and it won’t move at all.  The Bed Bumper is available in 50cm, 100cm and 150cm sizes and cost from just £5.99.

Visit www.bed-guards.co.uk for lots more info and photos. It’s also 100% British. What a great find!

Red clothes day!

T

winkle Stars music classes have been dressing up to raise money for Comic Relief. During the week of Red Nose Day the babies and children wore red to class and made a donation to the charity. The children had lots of fun in the sessions and enjoyed seeing their puppet Twinkle wearing her red nose and fancy deeley boppers .

The classes raised over £100 which was a fantastic effort

4 | Families Fife Issue 7

Bal-A-Vis-X

and Morag, who runs the classes, would like to thank everyone for their kind contributions and for the effort that went into making the little ones look so fabulous!  Twinkle Stars Music Group has a range of fun, educational and creative music classes for children aged 4 months to 5 years.

Contact Morag on 01383 622315 or email mo1906@ live.co.uk.

Bal-A-Vis-X helps communication across the key regions of the brain such as the visual, the motor and the auditory. The co-operation of these regions together with information transfer across the brain hemispheres is required for effective learning and reading. If this communication does not exist, then it results in the body not being able to implement instructions provided by the brain. This in turn manifests as a learning difficulty. If these links are not fully developed by the time the child starts school then they may have difficulties.

Indicators would be when a child has difficulties holding a pen or is constantly bumping into things for example.

How does it help?

Bal-A-Vis-X helps address these problems in an enjoyable way. It is a physical programme which uses beanbags and racquet balls and incorporates rhythmical throwing and catching. The exercises vary in complexity from one ball bouncing exercises, to six ball bounce juggling.

Why should a school take up this training?

Training/equipment is inexpensive. The exercises can be incorporated in PE classes or other school lessons. Most of all, teachers will see that this programme is so enjoyable it will be like the return of play ground activities...which a lot of schools feel is missing. Over 11,000 individuals have already been trained in Bal-A-Vis-X, most of whom have been teachers. The research to its effectiveness can be found online.

How can I access this training?

Bill Hubert will be in London on the 11th to 13th November to host the first Bal-A-Vis-X workshop in Central London.

To reserve a place, please go to www. integratedbrain.co.uk where you can make a booking on line and download the workshop timetable and find details of discounted hotel packages for those travelling from Scotland. 

Book Corner Storytime Since it’s our birthday, we asked Jane Devlin back with her popular book corner. Jane is a children’s author, living in London. Jane wrote Hattie the Bad, a tale of a young schoolgirl who doesn’t take long to find out that being naughty is a lot more fun than being good. Hattie the Bad was illustrated by Joe Berger and here Jane reviews another of Joe’s books and adds a few more books she feels have a rightful place on the shelf of any self respecting child.

0+

Goodnight Moon

By Margaret Wise Brown and Clement Hurd ISBN 978-0-230-74860-6 A classic American bedtime story that has lost none of its appeal. A little rabbit in pyjamas bids goodnight to everything he can see in his room.

The rhythm of the text is soothing and the pictures manage to mix the comfort of the familiar with the slight other-worldliness of night-time. As the book progresses the room gets darker and darker until finally the little rabbit is ready for sleep.

All tiny children should own this book!

4+

Bridget Fidget Hold on Tight

By Joe Berger ISBN 978-0-141-50181-9 When Bridget gets some money from the tooth fairy she heads straight to Dinglebang’s

Universe of Toys to spend it. But in all the excitement her faithful companion, Captain Cat, is inadvertently catnapped! Can Bridget rescue him in time or is he lost forever?

This is a fast-paced, action-packed caper with energetic – yet stylish! - illustrations to grab the attention of even reluctant readers.

Joe Berger has just been voted one of the Booktrust Best New Illustrators 2011. This book will show you why.

5+

Let’s Do Nothing!

By Tony Fucile ISBN 978-1-4063-2135-7 Frankie and Sam reckon they have done pretty much everything and decide to do nothing instead. Ever tried doing nothing?

Turns out it’s harder than you’d think. Tony Fucile has a background in animation and has

used it to great effect. Children will enjoy the playful, vivid artwork, well-observed dialogue and general sense of fun. There is clever interplay between the text and the pictures – look out for an enjoyable cameo by King Kong – and even the fonts are fab.

8+

Emil and the Detectives

By Erich Kästner ISBN 978-0-099-41312-7 Emil has been robbed on the train and he thinks he knows who did it - the man in the bowler hat!

Emil cannot bear to let down his hard-working mother so he gets off the train and follows him.

Alone in Berlin with no money and no-one to help him, he can’t help noticing that the adults are largely indifferent. But help is at hand when he meets a boy, in fact a whole network of boys, who join forces with him to outwit the thief and get his money back. This is an adventure story in which the action rests firmly with the kids. It is their resourcefulness and independence from the adult world that make the story exciting.  Want to get a copy of Hattie the Bad with illustrations by Joe Berger? Logon to www.puffin.co.uk

Read At Home series returns

T

he UK’s best-selling Read At Home series will be re-launched this May as Read with Biff, Chip and Kipper – totally in line with how children learn to read today and with a fresh new look. This is perfect timing ahead of the Government’s new phonics screening check for six year olds being introduced in primary schools next year, so parents can feel 100% confident their children will be learning to read at home in a way that matches how they will be learning to read at school. In fact the books are designed for parents to complement their children’s experiences

of learning to read at school by introducing the characters in the comfort of their home.

The series from Oxford University Press follows the lives of the much-loved characters, Biff, Chip, Kipper and Floppy the Dog. Children will undoubtedly recognise them from the Oxford Reading Tree series, used in more than 80 per cent of UK primary schools to help almost two million children to learn to read every year. The series which comprises 48 titles will be widely available to purchase from 5 May 2011 (RRP £3.99). 

For inspiration and guidance on supporting children’s reading, parents should also visit the brand new, userfriendly website www.oxfordowl.co.uk for free engaging activities, online eBooks and practical advice on helping their child learn to read, how to say the phonic sounds and much more.

Issue 7 Families Fife | 5

Birth Baby and Beyond

Not all nappies are rubbish!

A

fter a long winter, it is great to finally see the sun shining, the days getting longer and the green shoots of spring flowers. Time for a spring clear out!

The trouble with spring clear outs however, is the waste that they can generate, as anyone with children will appreciate. Using real nappies can reduce at least some of that waste.

Tanya Hay, Perth & Kinross Real Nappy Network Project Assistant, said: “About eight million disposables are used in the UK each day – that’s three billion every year – most of which go to landfill. In households with a baby, disposable nappies make up about 50% of rubbish – about 40 black plastic bags’ worth per year – and it is thought that the plastic in disposables, and nappy bags, could take hundreds of years to decompose�.

Landfill space is running out. Waste prevention at source is the most effective way of reducing rubbish, and using washable nappies is a great way to do this. Real nappies have around half the carbon footprint of disposables, and using them can also save you an estimated ÂŁ500 a year.

Modern real nappies are as simple to use as disposable ones and don’t need to be

KEREN BRYNES MACLEAN’S ADVICE & MORE COLUMN boil washed each time they are used. They are machine washable at a normal wash temperature, so there is an economic and environmental benefit to using them.

Perth & Kinross Real Nappy Network (PKRNN) holds events throughout the year to promote the use of real nappies, including free monthly Nappy Demonstrations where you can see how real nappies have changed, becoming a practical and effective choice for parents. There are also monthly Nappuccinos in Perth on the first Monday of every month, which provide free coffee/tea and cake and the chance to meet real nappy users.

PKRNN has a range of hire kits available for parents/carers to try real nappies at home and every baby born in the Perth and Kinross area will receive a free starter pack of nappies from their community midwife. ďƒ™

Features

For more information about PKRNN and current real nappy incentives please contact 01738 476476 or nappies@pkc.gov.uk or look for us on Facebook. Fife residents can contact the Fife Real Nappy Network on info@frnn.org.uk

Newly expectant mums

D

id you know...that you can be scanned from as early as 5 weeks into your pregnancy - a real bonus for anyone who just can’t wait to get their first glimpse of their child?

Dr Christie of Perth Baby Scan Studio is the most experienced ultrasound baby scanning operator in Scotland and introduced the first routine 20 week anomaly scans into the UK NHS in 1974. Dr Christie is clear ‘we aim to give parents the best possible value for the lowest possible cost’. ďƒ™ Perth Baby Scan Studio is ideally situated in Perth to provide a 3D/4D scanning service to parents-to-be in Inverness, Aberdeen, Dundee,

Stirling and Fife as well as to local Perth parents. To capture this time forever for your family contact Dr Christie, Babyscan Studio, Friarton Road, Perth Tel: 01738 472007 or see www.babyscanstudioperth.com

3HUWK .LQURVV 5HDO 1DSS\ 1HWZRUN

hen I was younger I spent many an hour making daisy chains, following a tradition that has gone on for many a generation. In Scotland daisies used to also be known as bairnwort and they also had another country name bruisewort.

Country folk used to make daisy ointments for treating bruises and injuries, a simple ointment being made by bashing daisies into goose fat and then applying to the skin.

Long gone are those days, however, a distant cousin of our native daisy, the alpine Arnica is to be found on the shelves of health food stores and pharmacies up and down the country.

Arnica seems to work wonders on bumps and bruises as well as aches and pains. Available as a topical treatment as well as in homoeopathic tablets it is a must for any first aid kit, the only contra-indication is not to apply arnica to broken skin. ďƒ™

)HI` :JHU :[\KPV 7LY[O + + 0THNPUN ^OPJO JHU IL YLJVYKLK VU +=+ *+

0GGFSJOH JNQBSUJBM BEWJDF EFNPOTUSBUJPOs OBQQVDJOPT JODFOUJWFT

$POUBDUT

OBQQJFT!QLD HPW VL XXX QLSOO PSH VL

0S MPPL VT VQ PO 'BDFCPPL QFSUIBOELJOSPTTSFBMOBQQZOFUXPSL 6 | Families Fife Issue 7

W

7YPJLZ Z[HY[ MYVT VUS` ‰ %DE\ 6FDQ 6WXGLR 3HUWK 6XLWH .LQJ -DPHV 9, %XVLQHVV &HQWUH )ULDUWRQ 5RDG 3HUWK 3+ '* 7HO ZZZ EDE\VFDQVWXGLRSHUWK FRP

Energy and Wellbeing Better beginnings with the Synergy Centre This month Jennifer Syme looks at the benefits of massage in pregnancy Pregnancy is a special time in a woman's life, filled with hope and excitement.

However, it can also place a massive strain on the body resulting in a range of symptoms such as back pain, fatigue and heavy legs.

So where does massage come into it?

Well, in the past, it was normal for midwives to include therapies to help women prepare for birth, but Western society gradually became more medical in its approach.

Recently the benefits of complementary techniques have been re-acknowledged, with the backing of midwives and doctors. Massage and other therapies have grown in popularity, as have options such as hypnobirthing and the use of water or home births.

This means that they are

no longer dismissed as something just for the rich or those of ‘alternative’ lifestyle.

Generally speaking having a touch treatment such as massage allows the body to cope with the various challenges the

pregnancy places upon it. Of course, anything that allows the mother to feel more cared for, in turn nurtures the baby. Research at The University of Miami (Touch Institute) showed that massage not only feels great, it lessens stress levels in the body and can help reduce the length of labour and the incidence of postnatal depression.

Besides relaxation,

massage can also help relieve the muscular tightness and pain that most women will experience in their pregnancy. Massage also stimulates the lymphatic system which helps increase energy levels and reduce puffy limbs.

In my experience in working with pregnant women, the response to treatment is always total pleasure. Even those that are in pain or worried in some way, leave the therapy room looking and feeling lighter and brighter than when they walked in. Postnatally, treatment can also help the body re-adjust and ease any ongoing muscular pain, especially in the pelvic area.

Pregnancy massage is safe throughout the pregnancy as long as it is with a professionally trained therapist who understands the specific requirements of pregnancy.

A voucher for treatment makes a thoughtful gift for the mum-to-be.  See www.familiesfife.co.uk/ pregnancymassage

Jennifer Syme is a massage therapist who has a Diploma in Massage for Pregnancy. She is based at Synergy Yoga Centre just off the A92 near Glenrothes, more information can be found at www.jstherapies.co.uk . Other pregnancy specific treatments are available at Synergy www.synergycentre.co.uk

Specialist Care for Pregnancy

Complementary Therapies Available Pre & Post Natally

Yoga Reiki Shiatsu Massage Birth Partner Workshops Manual Lymphatic Drainage Emotional Freedom Techniques

Gift Vouchers Available Synergy Natural Pregnancy Services

01592 631672 www.synergycentre.co.uk

Althos by Name, Althos by Nature

A

lthos, meaning “healing”, is an apt description of this holistic health centre in Perth. Formerly known as the Perth Osteopathic & Acupuncture Centre, The Althos Clinic, has a dedicated and highly qualified team of practitioners offering a comprehensive range of complementary therapies.

Established in 1983 by well known Osteopathic and Acupuncture practitioner Boyd Mackenzie, the clinic grew in stature until his untimely passing in 2009. In keeping with his forward-looking principles, the clinic now runs as a multi disciplinary holistic health centre. So in addition to Osteopathy & Acupuncture, the practice now offers Homeopathy, Reflexology, Aromatherapy, Massage, Nutrition & Life Coaching.

Visiting the clinic is a very positive experience. The team really believes in treating the whole person and has created an environment that is truly welcoming and relaxing. Let’s face it, we all have lifestyle pressures to contend with that didn’t exist years ago. These pressures can really take their toll if not dealt with. The Althos Clinic offers a range of safe, alternative treatments and therapies to help restore the body’s natural balance and keep you healthy.

The Althos Clinic is delighted to welcome two new practitioners to the centre this Spring, Orla Beaton, Maternity Massage Therapist and Alisa Wilson, Naturopathic Nutritionist. 

The Althos Clinic, 30 Kinnoull Causeway, Perth, PH2 8HQ. 01738 622 864, info@ thealthosclinic.com, www.thealthosclinic.com

Building bones for all the family

C

urrently 3 million people in the UK suffer from osteoporosis.

Interestingly however, only 22% of these are women over the age of 50. Nutritionist Alisa Wilson from Nutritionalise is at pains to point out that osteoporosis, or brittle bone disease, doesn’t only affect the elderly. Alisa warns that supporting bone health is essential for the whole family as the foundations of bone health are actually established very early and in fact bone density peaks in our twenties falling off thereafter. Many factors influence bone health. It is important to engage in physical activity and to avoid smoking, but

by far the greatest factor is diet when it comes to building strong bones.

The good news is that bone is living connective tissue that is constantly being renewed, so it’s never too late to improve your diet and take up some weightbearing exercise such as jogging, weighttraining or simply walking.  Alisa V Wilson is a Naturopathic Nutritionist. Get in touch with Alisa at the Althos Clinic in Perth or visit her website www.nutritonalise.com. To see Alisa’s recommendations and pitfalls for family bone health look at the full article on www.familiesfife/healthybones

Issue 7 Families Fife | 7

Birthdays and Parties

Parties... it’s all in the planning

By Susan Kirkwood

D

ID SOMEONE SAY party? Yes, I’m afraid so. It can be a tad stressful to plan a children’s party these days, what with a general rise in food intolerances, party bag peer pressure not to mention the array of different parties and venues to choose from.

So it’s Families to the rescue – whether you opt for a do-it-yourself do or a ‘throw money at it’ extravaganza we have tips and ideas for you to steal. We’ve also found the best suppliers around to ensure your party is one they’ll talk about, at least until next year.

which is jolly handy). Alternatively, dancing, circus skills, drama or a team treasure hunt are good ways of harnessing energy - if you fail to plan they’re likely to fall back on that old favourite - “who can scream the loudest?”. ÊÊ Ages 10+ and this worldly-wise lot are unlikely to want Mummy and Daddy embarrassing them by donning a paper hat and insisting on joining in. They’ll want to do something special, such as bowling, karting, a mini disco in the living room, or a Glee style drama and singing extravaganza.

Before you start

Bring in the professionals

It’s worth bearing in mind the differing needs, interests and numbers of particular age groups. As a guide ÊÊ One and two year-olds aren’t yet ready for a big affair. Most parents opt for a family get-together or a not too big buffet with a handful of friends with similar aged children. ÊÊ Three year-olds need planned activities.

Name badge them on arrival then capture their imagination with simple ‘circle time’ singing and clapping games, or ‘dancing’.

Balloons are better as decorations so hang them high lest they burst – loudly! ÊÊ Four to six year-olds enjoy joining in with traditional party games, such as Simon Says, Musical Bumps, Pass the Parcel. Allow space and time too for simply zipping around for a burst of unstructured play. Maximum 20 guests. ÊÊ Seven to nine year-olds are ready for more concentration and involvement in the party entertainment. Most are now old enough and skilled enough for arts and crafts (making their own goodie bag filler at the same time,

A good entertainer will bring your party to life and keep the children enthralled while you enjoy the fun from a safe distance. While there are parents who think nothing of timetabling two hours of games, entertaining Other People’s Children is not a breeze, which is where Families believes expert help is well worth the investment.

Themed parties

A great idea when your child has a particular interest, themes can be explored in many different ways. How about a drama, musical, circus or magic party, a sports party; or get crafty making bags, jewellery or cookies, or print t-shirts to match the theme. See our guide below for ideas locally. ÊÊ TIP: Take the theme throughout the party print off related pictures from the web as wall decorations, ask the guests to dress up with a prize for the best home-made hat.

To further take the stress out of planning your child’s best ever day, we’ve rounded up

Let us create a party... NNN with a difference Choose from a CatWalk Party N Hip Hop Party Fitness & Fun Party N Princess Ballerina Party for kids from 3 to 16 N for groups of 12-20 Parties £9 per child or £10 with party bag Ample free parking, tea & coffee, and seating for adults Pamper parties for older girls in a real hair & beauty salon, including a make-over with facials, make-up or hair

1 Kinghorn Road, Kirkcaldy, KY1 1SU

Tel: 01592 263700 www.mindandbodystudio.co.uk 8 | Families Fife Issue 7

some local party entertainers who, for a small fee, are more than happy to tire out your children and their friends in the name of fun.

Soft Play Parties

ÊÊ Fun Factory with Brewster Bear Straightforward and fun these are just what the doctor ordered for children up to around aged 7. Try the Fun Factory at the Crooked Glen for a great value party. They provide, the venue, the food, party games, a large soft play area with slides, party bags, invites and even thank you cards. At £5.99 a head for parties of 8 or more this is a good solution if you want to keep it simple. The birthday girl or boy will also get a visit from Brewster Bear and there will be ample opportunity to take photos.

To add more pizzazz you can add balloon modelling display, helium balloons and face painting for just £2 extra per head. Cake can also be provided on request. Job done!

Arty Parties

ÊÊ Doodle and Splat Doodle & Splat parties are designed for 2-7 year olds and run for 1 hour, during which

two organised art & craft activities will be provided along with a mix of imaginative play areas. Doodle & Splat will provide aprons for all the children, along with all the arts & craft materials and floor mats for the party. At the end of the party, Doodle & Splat will complete a thorough clean up of the used area.

Depending on the size of the venue and party there can be up to three play stations which comprise of slime, sand, shaving foam, play doh and cutters or colouring materials and craft activities for imaginative play.

Activities can be tailored to suit the age of children from simple crown making to more complex necklace making or wooden bird box construction.

Parties start at £80 for up to 12 children, and thereafter it is £3 per additional guest. At

time of booking there is a £30 non-refundable deposit. ÊÊ Daft for Crafts Cater for all ages from 3-103.

If it’s a crafty party you’re after let Daft for Crafts help. There are lots of activities to choose from, decopatch macramé, making friendship bracelets, jewellery, and origami and card making. Parties from 4 people and prices start at £10 per child. Usually last about an hour to an hour and a half. Parents can join in or equally pop out for a bit of shopping which may be a welcome treat. You are welcome to bring your own food and drink which of course helps keep the cost of your party down. ÊÊ Honey Pot Ceramics Looking for a party with a difference? Honey Pot Ceramics is a ceramic studio – with a difference. Based in the stunning Edinburgh Climbing Centre at Ratho, they don’t only offer Pottery Painting Parties, which are great and can work well for children as young as 2, but can also provide Cosmetic Making Parties choosing from soap, bath bombs, shower gels and lip balms and adding glitter, heather or even spiders or skulls to their creations – plastic I hasten to add! Great from about age 5+. Glittery girls may prefer to have a Jewellery Making Party which is also possible here, with a wide selection of beads and charms to make lovely jewellery to take home, ideal for girls around 4 upwards.

For younger children how about a Messy Play Party? This is fairly self explanatory and you’ll be glad you’re not hosting this one.

Children can have lots of messy fun with dough, paint, stamping and other crafts. Ideal for age 1-5. Packages start at £10 per head and they can even come to you if you can’t get to them. Mix and match parties available. A nice touch is that the birthday boy/girl also

Party Toons

CELEBRATE YOUR

BIRTHDAY

at Cairnie Fruit Farm » Entry into the *Mega Maze & Funyard » Balloon decorated party marquee and jugs of diluting juice »“Bug Box” picnic lunch for each child » 2 party times daily; 11am-1pm or 2pm-4pm » Optional extras chocolate fountain/group barrel bug ride/ bespoke cupcake tree or truly delicious chocolate birthday cake Open 7 Days APRIL to OCTOBER *Mega Maze open 11th July Cupar, Fife t.01334 655610 ǁǁǁ͘ĐĂŝƌŶŝĞĨƌƵŝƞĂƌŵ͘ĐŽ͘ƵŬ <zϭϱ ϰY

  

 � �   � �  � �  �     

Invite one of our costume characters along to your shop open days, galas, functions, parties.

For enquiries or bookings t: 01333 351585 m: 07761 547 229 www.partytoons.co.uk

...from

just £49!

    

email:partytoons@hotmail.co.uk www.bebo.com/Partytoons

Issue 7 Families Fife | 9

Birthdays and Parties receives a personalised ceramic plate, (fired with their age in their favourite colour on it), which all their friends can sign on their special day.

ÊÊ Let’s Pretend If princesses and mermaids are the order of the day as they tend to be in most households containing at least one girl under 7 years old, then why not call in the help of Let’s Pretend. For £9 per head, your daughter can be joined by 9 of her friends on her birthday at a venue of your choice where they can dress up in girly costumes, play games, be made up and have a personalised story read to them. Boys join in as pirates or Merlin with face painting. Other parties available for older children with Shimmy and Shine dance and make up parties or Pamper and Polish for age 9 upwards. A group photograph included in the party bags is a nice touch. ÊÊ Football Crazy A football party must be fairly high on the list for young, energetic children. A number of local suppliers have put together birthday packages which mix football with party food and games. ÊÊ Little Kicks A more obvious choice for boys perhaps, but all children can enjoy a Little Kicks football training birthday party. Here, a one hour party session includes tried and tested fun

01577 864725 M. 07775771938

10 | Families Fife Issue 6

with energetic football related activities and games. Suitable for children aged 2 to 7 the parties include invites and certificates for participants, 45 mins of energetic football plus 15 minutes photos and penalty shoot out session. All coaches are professional, fully disclosed and the ratio is 8 children to 1 coach. Little Kicks has a selection of approved indoor venues to suit and will assess a local venue for suitability too if required. The birthday boy or girl receives a trophy with special LKFC badges for participants. Other merchandise such as branded footballs and party favours are also available, book with them - it’s in the net! ÊÊ Dunfermline Academy of Sport Also offers football parties with their own branded party invitations and package includes a medal and football for the birthday child and party bags for guests. ÊÊ Balls, Boots and Bibs Specialise in football parties. A party session lasts for up to 70 minutes during which the children will be coached by professional coaches, play fun games, practise skills, penalty shoot outs, and have a mini match. At the end of the session there is a presentation and each child receives a medal for being a good sport and a personalised certificate, which always guarantees happy faces.

Balls Boots and Bibs coaches come fully SFA qualified and are bubbly, enthusiastic and fully football party trained hosts!

Catwalk Cool

ÊÊ Mind and Body Studio Mind and Body studio, based in Kirkcaldy

offers a great range of cutting edge themed parties for kids from age 3-16. Groups of 1220 children can choose from a Catwalk party, Fitness and Fun Party, A Princess ballerina party or a Hip Hop Party. For the star struck, the Catwalk Party has to be the top choice.

Children dress up and learn to strut their stuff down a real catwalk with full sound system, disco lights and PA. A Party Leader in the mould of an X Factor judge, will help with light make-up, cowboy hats, feather boas, sunglasses whilst teaching participants how to walk, talk and act like a model – with a full Catwalk performance at the end for returning parents. Prices £9.00 per child or £10.00 including party bag.

For older children they also offer Beauty Pamper Parties for more ‘mature’ girls who are looking for a little ‘adult pampering’.

Suitable for groups from 3-9, these parties take advantage of hair stylists and beauty therapists to provide a perfect treat for girls who consider themselves too grown up for a kids party.

Priced according to services and group size.

Something a bit different

ÊÊ Party Toons (Pictured above) What could be a better surprise for a young child than to have one of their favourite TV characters turn up at their birthday? Think of every little boy’s favourite builder or the ever popular Spanish speaking explorer or even the most popular pig on TV. Party Toons will bring one or all of these larger than life size characters along to your home or to a hired venue to meet and greet, play games and dance with the children. This service is unique round these parts and has got to be in the top choices for creating a splash at a toddler party. Don’t forget that Party Toons also do events and can be hired for nursery visits, children’s galas etc. Prices from £49 per character for standard appearance of 20-30 mins including free photo opportunities.

Recommended for babies up to age 7.

Take the party outside

Now that the summer is almost upon us, it’s worth looking at outdoor options for parties.

Less mess and more tiredness equals happier parents. Here are some ideas to think about if you are lucky enough to have summer birthdays. ÊÊ Active Kids For those of you who are not in the know, Active Kids is situated on the outskirts of Perth in Stanley. It is a lovely, rural site which boasts an outdoor Adventure Play Park, spacious, comfortable cafe and a huge well equipped indoor soft play for those rainy days. Great for a visit anytime, Active Kids also offers a choice of two different parties: a Wigwam Picnic Party or the Party Room. Both include Adventure Park play and food with a visit from their mascot Stanley the dog if the child is happy with this. Prices start from £8.50 per head with a 10 child minimum. Suitable for up to primary school age. So Book your Fun Party at Active Kids Adventure Park – it’s a pleasant place to hang out – even for adults! ÊÊ Cairnie Farm Children’s Birthday Parties are a big part of the summer fun at Cairnie. This year’s package is £10.00 per head with a minimum of 8 and a maximum of 25 guests. They will provide a marquee decked out party style with balloons and picnic tables. Add jugs of diluting juice, a bug box picnic lunch and entry to the funyard [and Mega Maze from July 11]. They offer two time slots 11am-1pm or 2-4pm. Fab additional extras can be added such as a chocolate fountain with fruit, a bespoke cupcake tree in blue or pink or a group barrel bug ride – enquire for pricing. To book ring the shop.

Introducing two local baby and child photographers

ÊÊ Smallprint Smallprint makes fine silver jewellery featuring your child’s finger print, hand or footprint; each one personally engraved. So, what’s a Smallprint party? Simply an informal get together at the host’s house with friends and no hard sell! There doesn’t have to be, as Abi, the maker, simply asks that each of the ÊÊ I am Karola Grabara. I have a gorgeous daughter Zosia and I love photography and adore children, so being a children’s photographer just made perfect sense. I love what I do and I feel very privileged every time I am invited to photograph a family and their little birds. I am based in Dalgety Bay but I can travel to you.

Our babies grow so fast and although we long to remember every detail, time continues to fly by and our little birds continue to grow. Please take some time to look through my blog, and get a taste of what I create. I hope my images make you smile.

I love meeting families and exploring new locations and creating beautiful images that will warm your heart and your home. Photographs you will cherish always.

Bounce n Play

ÊÊ Babies to ...adults!

Bounce n’ Play specialise in bouncy castles.

They have different sizes of castles for all ages and party size, from compact infant sized castles up to full sized adult specification.

They also have activity styled castles. All hires are for a full day and include delivery, set up and collection. Our castles can go inside or outdoors and safety mats are supplied.

Don’t forget the adults

ÊÊ Red Hot Knights – any age at all During the Big Snow, I was at a party for a 3 year old boy who got a very big surprise when a very genuine looking fire engine turned up at his front door... This is a sure fire way to capture the imagination of not only your child and his friends but the neighbours too. Engines can be hired for one hour or longer or a return trip. It can even be split into

Top tips

ÊÊ It’s all in the timing: For little children, 11am-1pm or 12-2pm are best. Most of them are past their best by the afternoon. For older children a lunchtime slot or

shorter trips for kids parties. Great also for special birthdays and hen/stag nights. The fun doesn’t stop at Fire Engines - think Tank – yes a proper tank and limos to die for. Call them to discuss your specific requirements.

ÊÊ Father’s Day idea?

friends you invite is interested in having just one piece of jewellery made. She will explain the process and prices and then drink tea with your friends, jig your babies and laugh at your children’s jokes while you decide which piece you’d like and what to have on it. The host of the private session is entitled to up to 25% off all the jewellery they order depending on number of orders taken on the day. Everything from pendants to cuff links, charms to keyrings, all polished to a beautiful finish. Well, what better way to choose a lovely gift for yourself or someone special?

Capture the moment

ÊÊ My name is Gosia Wlodarczyk and I am a child and family photographer based in Glenrothes, Fife. I absolutely love photographing children. It is my passion and I’m so proud to have the opportunity to capture precious memories of children at a time in their lives that will never come again. I use natural light basically to capture stunning images of children and their families which I know will be forever cherished.

mid afternoon start will work. ÊÊ Liaise with parents whose children have birthdays around the same time. If you both book the same day for a party, the guest list will be tricky. Joining

It’s all too easy to think that you will stick the camera/video camera in your bag at the last minute in the hope of getting some cracking photos of your child’s 2nd/6th/9th birthday.

In reality however, what happens. Either the camera never gets out of the bag as you are so harassed by 12 six year olds clamouring for attention or you do manage a few shots only to discover later they are all of one child and it’s not even the birthday boy!

At our daughter’s last birthday we got a professional photographer Karola Grabara to take some photos. As we had a swimming party it was almost a necessity. The results were fantastic. And we have the slideshow for ever more. What a fantastic keepsake for when she’s an adult. 

forces is a much better idea you can share the costs and the hassle. ÊÊ Keep the food simple and don’t over cater. Most children are too excited to have a big appetite.

Limit the junk food and remember some children may be vegetarian or have a food intolerance. ÊÊ Sleepovers: come midnight, you’ll be regretting it... Planning ahead is KEY. 

Issue 5 Families Fife | 11

Birthdays and Parties

Art and Craft Daft for Crafts: 01383 825777 www.daftforcrafts.com; Doodle and Splat: Lynda & Pamela 0794 282 5114, www.doodleandsplat. co.uk; Honey pot ceramics: Juliet 07952 689283 www.honeypotceramics.com; The Ceramic Experience: Shona or Steve 01383 840640 & 01334 www. theceramicexperience.com; Potter about: Catherine 01592 873 680, www.potterabout.co.uk Cakes Allyballybee: Alison 07752 767854, allyballybee@aol.com; Sensation Designer & Novelty Cakes, Kinross: Julie 07976 037252. www.sensationcakes.com; Kingseat cakes Linda: 0777825 6305; Frosted cupcakes: 0770 216 9485 www.frostedcupcakes.co.uk

â&#x153;

Fancy dress Top Cat fancy dress: 01383 724 825 www.topcatfancydress.co.uk; Chicken shop: Sophie 01592 642377, www.chickenshop.com Kids entertainers Party Toons: 01333 351585 www. partytoons.co.uk; Kids Party Club: Steve 01577 67006 www. kidspartyclub.co.uk; Puffin kids

entertainer: 01383 720018; Animal man: 0131 516 8850; Roger the dodger: 01334 828231 Preschool Music & Movement Musical Steps: Inga Jack 0845 224 0613 www.musicalsteps. co.uk; Jo Jingles Fife: Fiona: 0131 339 9597 www.jojingles.com Magicians Kids Party Club: Steve 01577 670064, www.kidspartyclub. co.uk; Mick magic: 01383 727922 www.mickmagic.com Outdoor pursuits Active Kids, Perth: 01738 827286 www. activekidsadventurepark.co.uk; Cairnie Fruit Farm: 01334 655610 www.cairniefruitfarm. co.uk; Adventure Golf Island Matthew www.adventure-golfisland.com; Rifle shooting and Youth Archery - Cluny clays: Laura 01592 720374, www. clunykids.co.uk Ball Sports Little Kicks Andrew 01786 842973 www.littlekicks.co.uk Balls, Boots and Bibs: 07766 833579 e:balls.bibs@googlemail. com; DAFC: 01383 730730 or

blogspot.com; Karolina Grabara: 07525 259342 www. karolaphotography. blogspot.com; Blue White Photography: 01592 566986

academy@dafc. co.uk; Enjoya-ball: Paul 08452 262694, www. enjoy-aball.com Pamper & Catwalk parties Mind and Body Studio: Keith 01592 263700 www. mindandboystudio.co.uk; Letâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Pretend: Amanda01383 731447 www.lets-pretend.co.uk; Blush Beauty: Susan 07838 380686 www.blushbeautytherapy.co.uk Soft plays: Active Kids, Perth: 01738 827286 www.activekidsadventurepark. co.uk; Playbugs: Perth in Tisos 01738 628663 www.playbugs. co.uk; Brewsterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Fun Factory at the Crooked Glen 01383 840070; Bongos: 01592 631133, www. bongobears.co.uk; Jumpin Jacks: 01592 655000, www.jumpinjacks. co.uk Photograhers Photosensitive: Gosia 01592 562845 www.gosiawlodarczyk.

Laser parties Jungle Jims 01592 755111 Balloons Balloons at Hallmark: 01383 611578; Bay Balloons: 07754 555 849; First for balloons: 01577 840254 Bouncy castles Bounce n Play: 01577 864725 www.bouncenplaycastles. co.uk; The Bouncy Castle Man: 07513 593 073 www. thebouncycastleman.co.uk Mobile disco hire DJ Ash Ashley: 07513 593 073 www.djash.co.uk Limo/Fire Engine/Tank hire Red Hot Knights: 01738 788001www.redhotknights.com Jewellery parties Smallprint: Abi 07747 707527www.smallp.co.uk

Families Five Minute Qs with Jurga Turner

BIFOEFSTPO!MJUUMFLJDLT DP VL XXX MJUUMFLJDLT DP VL

Bespoke Nursery Murals

Call Jurga on 01592 872937 www.wix.com/jurgaturner/artdecor 12 | Families Fife Issue 7

J

urga Turner is the creative force behind Art Decor. Originally from the Baltic States and an experienced German-English translator, Jurga still finds the time and energy for her true passion which is painting.

Q. What is it you paint?

A. I should start probably by saying that I paint children rooms, or paint murals. I also paint on furniture however, mirror frames and canvases, usually flowers and gardens.

For example, in my daughter Amityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s room, I painted a branch of the tree with a Peter Rabbit family under it and she seems to be very interested pointing at them.

Q. Have you always painted?

A. Yes. Painting always brings me back in my memories to my grandparentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s living room where I can still visualise the beautifully painted and decorated walls.

These were done by my father, then a

professional artist.  It was pretty impressive for an adult but as a child it made a powerful impression. I believe that is why I felt that it would be right to have a mural in my daughterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s room.

Q. What made you set up as a business?

A. My friend liked the mural and asked if I could create something in her daughterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s room too, so that is how it started. Young children really take in pictures as they donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have the distraction of language yet.

I now create nursery designs and paint murals in childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s rooms. The prices are very affordable. The starting price is approximately £150 per wall, depending on the complexity of the design so it can be less or more. ď&#x192;&#x2122; To see more of Jurgaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s work, visit her website www.wix.com/jurgaturner/artdecor or call: 01592 872937

â&#x153;

Families Fife guide to local party suppliers

Out and About May

7th NCT West and Central Fife Nearly New Sale Vine Church Dunfermline Sale of nearly new nursery equipment, cots, buggies, toys, games, children’s clothes, maternity wear and much, much more.

12-2pm www.nct.org.uk/in-your-area/ westcentralfife St Andrews Farmers Markets North Car Park, Argyle Street www.fifefarmersmarket.co.uk Perth Farmers Markets King Edward Street and St John’s Place www.perthfarmersmarket.co.uk Auchtermuchty Outdoor market Muchty Mercat Cross Car Park with great variety of local produce and crafts. 10am- 1pm www.auchtermuchtycommunitycentre.org.uk/ 8th Game, Set and Veggie Patch Dobbies Garden Centre/World Children are invited to Dobbies Little Seedlings Club to take part in a FREE, hands on workshop to learn about growing fruit and vegetables at home. Each child can sow carrot seeds and take part in a fun board game. For full club and times contact your local Dobbies.

[Dunfermline 01383 842757] 13th –15th Festival of Museums Various venues A packed weekend of surprising and exciting events including behind the scenes at Black Watch Castle and Museum, Perth, The Jacobites Come to Kirkcaldy, Gala in the Gardens St Andrews and A Gastronomic Gallimaufray of Fife, Anstruther. see www.festivalofmuseums.com for details.

13th Perth The Parliament Show (schools only) Perth Theatre 10.30am + 1.30pm When a school council takes a trip to the Scottish Parliament, the pupils get more than they bargained for when a famous figure from Scotland’s history appears and whisks the pupils, Dr Who style, into Scotland’s past, present and future. £3.50 per child, teachers free. 01738 621 031 www.horsecross.co.uk 14th Loch Leven Feel Good Fair at Loch

Open 7 Days May - September 10am - 6pm

country tearoom children’s play area

Highlight of the month

www.busweb.co.uk/svbm 21st Cupar The Fife Show Traditional agricultural show with lots to do for all the family. Kinloss House, Cupar 01334 880518 www.fifeshow.com CUPAR Farmers Markets Crossgate 9am -1pm www.fifefarmersmarket.co.uk 28th KIRKCALDY Farmers Markets The Town Square www.fifefarmersmarket.co.uk

Allanhill Farm

now open for the season

Why not head for the countryside near St Andrews for some fresh, home-grown produce at Allanhill Farm Shop? The children will love a run around in the free outdoor play area, and you have a coffee and some good home baking while you enjoy the view. Stock up on delicious homemade jams and local produce.  Open from 12th May, 10am - 6 pm.

Leven Half Marathon KGV Rugby Field 1pm Stalls, street football, try to ‘Beat the Goalie’ with the Boys Brigade, play volleyball or have your face painted. The Kinross Pipe Band provide music and kids can enjoy the Fun Run, which Swansacre Playgroup organises every year at 1.30pm. www.kleo.org.uk DUNFERMLINE Farmers Market Glen Gates, Bridge Street www.fifefarmersmarket.co.uk PERTH Gardener’s & Countryside Market, King Edward Street, Perth 9am-5pm 15th near Dunfermline Annual Bus Running Day Scottish Vintage Bus Museum See lots of vintage buses in action – fun day for all the family. 01383 623380

28th (10am - 5pm) & 29th (11am - 4pm) Perth Art on the River Part of Perth’s Festival of the Arts. Tay Street, Perth

June

4th St Andrews Farmers Markets North Car Park, Argyle Street www.fifefarmersmarket.co.uk Perth Farmers Markets King Edward Street and St John’s Place www.perthfarmersmarket.co.uk Perth The Jack & Jill Market (Baby & Kids Market) Up to 40 stalls of quality nearly-new baby & children’s clothes, toys, equipment, 0-9 years. 10.30am – 1.30pm,Perth, Dewars Conference Centre £1 Entry (kids free).To Book A Stall and keep 100% Tel: 01721 725 879 www.jackandjillmarket.co.uk 5th Picnic Time Dobbies Garden Centre/ World. Come along and join in the fun at Dobbies Little Seedlings Club Picnic.

This hands-on workshop on picnic food and fresh fruit growing at home. Children can enjoy a picnic snack out in the fresh air while playing some outdoor games.

11th The Jack & Jill Market (Baby & Kids Market) Up to 40 stalls of quality nearly-new baby & children’s clothes, toys, equipment, 0-9 years. 10.30am – 1.30pm, Dunfermline, The Vine Venue £1 Entry (kids free).To Book A

Children’s PARTIES

Branded Party Invitations Over one hour of fun football Party food and drink Medal & Football for birthday child Party Bags £90 For Party of ten children Pitreavie Playing Fields, Queensferry Rd, Dunfermline, T:01383 730 730 academy@dafc.co.uk

Issue 7 Families Fife | 13

Out and About

Parent to Parent

Stall and keep 100% Tel: 01721 725 879 www. jackandjillmarket.co.uk 11th DUNFERMLINE Farmers Market Glen Gates, Bridge Street www.fifefarmersmarket.co.uk CRIEFF Craft workshops MacRosty Park Celebration Day. Activities on offer with Re:make will be kite making, eggshell gardens, fabric bunting sewing, origami folding and much more – all by recycling plastic, paper, fabric and cardboard that would otherwise end up in landfill. fiona.remake@gmail.com.

18th Anstruther Scottish Fisheries Museum Open Day. A full day of fun for the whole family with stalls and activities in the museum. Free 01333 310628 www. scotfishmuseum.org CUPAR Farmers Markets Crossgate 9am -1pm www.fifefarmersmarket.co.uk

ÊÊ Who’s going to the Parliament Show?

20th Perth Sticky Kids Perth Concert Hall 10am + 1.30pm. Sticky Kids is back and brand new for 2011! Join Molly Muddle’s hilarious mishaps and muddles strike a chord with children everywhere and the Sticky Kids in the audience just love showing off their moves and singing along. £4 Schools 1 free adult for every 10 children, Nurseries 1 free adult for every 2 children 01738 621 031 www.horsecross.co.uk 25th & 26th Perth Perth and District Model Railway Club 2011 Exhibition.

Dewars Ice Rink, Perth. Our 20th annual show! Something for everyone all using the extensive LEGO trains system and train rides for passengers of all ages on a miniature railway! Specialist societies, excellent catering, free car parking. www.perthmrc.com 25th Animal Magic! Kirkcaldy Museum continues throughout the summer Have a fangtastic time at Kirkcaldy Museum this summer and enjoy a truly beastly exhibition! From unicorn horns to rattlesnakes, we’ll explore the animal kingdom - and there’s hands-on fun for all the family with fancy dress and intrepid explorer games. T.08451 55 55 55 KIRKCALDY Farmers Markets The Town Square www.fifefarmersmarket.co.uk 

14 | Families Fife Issue 7

Milnathort mum Morag Thompson has recently returned to work after her second maternity leave with son Douglas, 9 months.

Pictured here with Douglas and sister Ailsa who’s 3, Morag shares her experience of spending time with young children in and around the rural Kinross countryside.

Why do you like living where you do?

Milnathort has a lovely friendly village atmosphere and you always meet someone you know when you’re out and about. There are two really good parks in the village and a really good baby and toddlers group which runs on Thursdays and Fridays. favourite shop?

With running my own business and having two children I do most of my shopping online. I particularly love M&S for staples and www.tootsieandfudge.com for my children’s clothes; they’re a local on-line business, which sells fun and fabulous Danish children’s clothes which are really different from what you find in the high street.

Favourite day out?

There is so much to do in the area that it’s really hard to choose. On sunny days we like to cycle around Loch Leven on the cycle path and have a picnic. I also really like Fife Animal Park, my daughter loves looking at the animals with the added advantage of soft play and a cup of coffee if the weather is on the chilly side. (t: 01337 831830 or www. fifeanimalparkandpetcentre.co.uk) Favourite child friendly restaurant?

My parents stay just outside Linlithgow and I can’t recommend The Park Bistro enough.

It’s just beside the Union Canal so you can go for a walk to work up an appetite. In

the restaurant they serve everything from sandwiches to steak for adults but they also have a great children’s menu and play room. (t: 01506 846 666) Favourite park?

The Kirkgate Park by Loch Leven in Kinross is fantastic for kids of all ages (including the grown up ones).

Favourite alternative health clinic/pre or post natal class?

During both my pregnancies I went to MamaYoga which is run by Susannah Dean – it was great for dealing with the everyday stress of life and pregnancy and I always left feeling very calm and collected. The class also covers birth breathing which worked amazingly well. (www.theyoga.co.uk) Proudest eco-friendly moment?

My husband runs a renewables business so we thought it was only right to practice what we preach and install solar panels.

Not only are we helping others to be ecofriendly, but we are too!

Best planet saving tip: Don’t drive if you can walk.

No parent should be without: A good support network. I met a lot of mums at the local breastfeeding group and baby & toddlers. It’s good to meet up with other parents who are generally facing the same challenges as you are.

Parenting pet hates: Unsolicited advice from others.

Favourite family holiday spot: Crieff Hydro Hotel is just fabulous for adults and kids. There’s a lot to do on sunny or rainy days and they have a kids club for over 2’s. They have an adults only bistro which means you can book a babysitter and enjoy a child free evening or you can eat in the restaurant with the kids.

Best children’s book: I love anything by Shirley Hughes but I particularly love Alfie.

Most played with toys: My daughter loves playing in our garden and digging our vegetable patch, so I would have to say her gardening set has been well used – sometimes I think she’s digging a hole to Australia!

Most successful recipe/food: It would have to be Key Lime Pie – but since my son was born I don’t think I’ve made one. Maybe I need to entertain more!  Morag has recently returned to work from maternity leave as a freelance Marketing and PR consultant. She works with clients of all sizes and her services include Press Releases, Marketing Management, Marketing Strategies & Campaigns and New Business Marketing Support. If you wish to speak to her regarding a specific project please contact her on morag_ thomson@yahoo.com or log on to her website www.moragthomson.com

Clubs and Classes Arty Classes

ÊÊ Doodle and Splat Preschool art classes from 1 to 5 years. Tuesdays to Fridays. Regular classes in Dalgety Bay, Dunfermline, Kirkcaldy.

Details/Bookings please contact Lynda or Pamela on 07942825114 or doodle@ doodleandsplat.co.uk or see www. doodleandsplat.co.uk ÊÊ Dibble Dabble Dumplin’s Messy Play classes for your wee dumplin to have fun, get messy. Classes suitable for babies as soon as they can sit up unaided!

Dell Farquharson Centre, Dunfermline, KY11 7DS. Thursday - 2pm - 2.45pm Saturday 11am - 11.45am New class starting 23rd April www.weedumplins.co.uk

Baby Classes

ÊÊ Baby Signing Classes - At last, baby signing comes to Fife! Classes now in St Andrews and soon in Cupar. For information on course dates and locations visit www. signsandrhymes.co.uk or contact Jenni on 07967 010727. ÊÊ Baby Sensory Classes - West Fife Monday 10.00 and 11.30 Lady of Lourdes Church Hall, Dunfermline Wednesday 10.30 Cowdenbeath Community Centre Friday 10.30 Play Planet, Dalgety Bay Friday 1.45 Carnegie Hall, Dunfermline Tel: Claire Wilson 07749 468864 ÊÊ Baby Massage Classes Tiny Tender Touch. Learn to massage your baby a skill you can use for life with your growing child. Tel: Claudia: 01383 733 146 or email: tinytendertouch@ gmail.com ÊÊ Labour Massage Tuition for Birth Partners Contact Orla Beaton on 07854 196 955 or email info@orla-beaton.co.uk. See www.orla-beaton.co.uk for more info. ÊÊ Water Babies Unique structured swimming programme for under 1s.

Classes now running in Bowhill Swimming Pool, Cardenden (Wed) and Levenmouth Swimming Pool (Thurs). Tel: 0131 554 6682 to book a class or www.waterbabies.co.uk or email: woggle@waterbabies.co.uk ÊÊ Baby and Postnatal Yoga Get back into shape and let your baby enjoy some yoga too. Regular classes: South Queensferry on Wednesday am, Inverkeithing on Thursday am, Edinburgh on Thursday pm, New Class in Dunfermline see Exercise classes below.

Call Susannah on 01383 413121 for further details and qualifications, or visit the website: www.theyoga.co.uk

Drama Classes

ÊÊ Carnegie College Stage School runs Drama workshops for 3 to 25 years throughout Fife on a weekly basis. Help improve your child’s confidence and communication skills in a friendly environment. For more information

For FREE brief class listings here, email web@familiesfife.co.uk. fuller listings online at www. familiesfife.co.uk/whatson please contact Sarah Halliwell on 0790 048 8913, email shalliwell@carnegiecollege. ac.uk or visit our facebook page.

Exercise Classes

ÊÊ Mum and Baby Zumba Dance Fitness Classes: ‘Exercise in Disguise’ Day and Evening Adult Classes in Kinross & Milnathort ZumbAtomic Dance Fitness Classes and Parties: The music, fun routines and games make exercise fun! Kids don’t even realise it is exercise! ÊÊ Kids Classes Lil’starz age 4-7 Big Starz age 8-12 in Kinross & Milnathort, Parties all areas considered www.zumbafitnesswithjanice. co.uk ÊÊ BumpBabyBlitz from PG Fitness. Meets every Wednesday at 10.30am at Little Peas Pram shop car park in Dunfermline to head off to the Tel: Paula 07922 568960 ÊÊ Mum and child friendly classes at Mind and Body Studio, Kirkcaldy Choose from Body Pump - Tuesdays @10.45am, Body Vive - Weds @ 10.30am, Bums, Tums & Thighs - Thurs @ 10.30am Cost: £5.50 per class Feel free to bring your preschooler along to socialise while you work out. Tel: 01592 263700 or www. mindandbodystudio.co.uk ÊÊ Yoga for Pregnancy & Birth Prepare for a more relaxed pregnancy & an easier birth.

Regular classes in Inverkeithing on Tuesday eve, Dunfermline on Wednesday eve. Call Susannah on 01383 413121 for further details and qualifications, or visit the website: www.theyoga.co.uk ÊÊ Pilates with Kelly McMahon www. kmpilates.co.uk for full list of classes. Or tel: 07834 618157 ÊÊ Pilates @ Mind & Body Studio offers 6 Pilates Classes per week in Kirkcaldy. These include prenatal and post natal classes for mums who want to strengthen those abdominals in a sociable setting Cost: £6 per class.

Tel: 01592 263700 or www. mindandbodystudio.co.uk ÊÊ Yoga New ‘postnatal’ & ‘general’ classes in Dunfermline These classes will be held at JKS Dojo, starting with FREE classes on 20th April. Please book your space.

Thereafter there will be a 9 week term: from 27/4 - 29/6 (no class 18/5), costing £54 or £8 Drop-In. Call Susannah on 01383 413121 for further details and qualifications, or visit the

website: www.theyoga.co.uk ÊÊ Zumba For a full list of zumba classes with Kelly and collegues see list www. mad4zumba.co.uk t: 07834 618157 ÊÊ Lochore Family Night Every Thursday night at Lochore Centre. From 5.30pm7.00pm fun for all the family. Different activites every week. Contact Nicole Nolan by email on nikki_yvonne@hotmail.com

Music and movement classes

ÊÊ Jo Jingles Preschool music, singing and rhyme fun. Classes across West Fife. Contact Fiona for term dates and locations. Tel: 01383 734080 Email: fiona.jojingles@hotmail. co.uk Fiona ÊÊ Musical Steps: Singing music, rhyme and movement for preschoolers. Classes across Fife, Glenrothes, Dunfermline, North Queensferry, Newton of Falkland and St Andrews ÊÊ Twinkle Stars Pre- School Music Classes Fun, educational music classes for babies, toddlers and pre- school children. Come along and join in the fun! Classes in Dalgety Bay and Dunfermline. For more information please contact Morag (Bed hons) 01383 622315 or mo1906@live.co.uk ÊÊ Kids into Music Music making classes for primary age children in Kirkcaldy. Strathallan Primary – Tuesday evening, Pathhead Parish Church – Saturday mornings. For more information www.kidsintomusic.co.uk ÊÊ Little Voices Classes for Babies and Toddlers from 9-18 months. It is never too early to start singing with children. Friday 10.30-11.10am St Peter’s Church Kirkcaldy. To book call 07812 167 667. ÊÊ Buckhaven Brass Beginnings College Street, Buckhaven. Wednesday 5.45 pm – 7.15 pm. Contact: Brian Hutchison 01333 351231 or 07800771929 or e-mail brian_ hutch1991@yahoo.co.uk Please check out our page on Buckhaven and Methil Miners Band’s website www.buckhavenband.com ÊÊ Jumping - Gyms PERTH Physical activity For 0-5yrs. Thurs 9.30. 11am @ Tulloch Community Centre,Tulloch Terrace Perth.

Under 1s free 1yr+ £3.50 includes squash & biscuit. Call Marion On 01738 564348

Dance Classes

ÊÊ The Dance Bank Dunfermline, Dalgety Bay, Kelty, Perth, Kinross.

Children’s ballet, tap, bellydance, tribal classes. Tel: Rhona 01383 872132 or www. dancebank.co.uk ÊÊ 1st Steps Under 5’s dance & movement for under 5s. Classes in Kirkcaldy, Burntisland, Dalgety Bay, Perth, Blairgowrie And Dunfermline Contact Info E: elizabeth_dancedaze@hotmail.co.uk or susan_dancedaze@hotmail.com 07923 949 530 or 0773 279 797 

Issue 7 Families Fife | 15

Dare to be different!

Fire Engine Limo for Hire Perfect for: Kids Parties School Proms Hen Nights Weddings Airport Shuttles Tank Limo for Hire

serving Perthshire, Stirling, Angus & Fife

call us on 01738 788001 www.redhotknights.com 16 | Families Fife Issue 7