Glasgow Families Magazine March-April 2015

Glasgow Issue 50 March/April 2015

Easter Activities Baby & Mum The UK's first clinic devoted to babies:

* Join the Butterfly Club * Enjoy our Baby Bond sessions * Track your Baby's Development * Come along to our Free Workshops * Book a place on our Baby Talk Courses

* Share our Free Stories with your Baby

Coming soon to Robroyston

www.enchantedforestandfriends.com @EFnFriends

Enchanted Forest and Friends

Call us to find out more 0303 303 1001 Visit us ButterflyBabyClinic.com

Award Winning Post Natal Fitness class where baby comes too!

See inside for details‌ Places available from Birth-5 years

www.somersetnursery.com

6 Fitzroy Place Glasgow G3 7RH

Classes in the Glasgow South & West End Parks.

For timetables and enquiries contact: Claire (West End) on: 07545 775 091 Email: Claire.mackie@hotmail.co.uk Wendy (Southside & East Ren) on: 07775 771 330 Email: wendymacleodpt@yahoo.co.uk

Glasgow’s really useful magazine for families with children aged 0-12

News & Views

In this issue...

2-5

News and Views

6-9

Baby & Mum

8-9

Birthday Party Bonanza

10-11 Young Glasgow 12-13 Easter Activities 14-15 Nursery & School News 16-19 Family Breaks 20-24 Out and About

Get in touch Editor: Anna Wignall editor@familiesglasgow.co.uk, 07796 946661 Keep up to date at www.familiesglasgow.co.uk or find us on facebook Next issue: May/June 2015. Special features: Spring into Summer, Get Active, Family Breaks and more.

Copy deadline: 3 April. Special ad rates and offers available, call or email to find out more.

We take every care in preparing this magazine but the publishers cannot be held responsible for the claims made by advertisers.

Designed by kris@grafikfabrik.co.uk.

Printed By Warners (Midlands) plc.

Families Glasgow copies are FREE and available through a selected network of distribution outlets through Glasgow.

Front page photo: Oilily www.oililyshop.com Copyright: Families Glasgow Magazine March 2015.

Disclaimer: Colour transparencies and any other original materials submitted for publication are sent at owners risk and, whilst every care is taken, neither Families Glasgow nor its agents accept liability for loss or damage. Families Glasgow 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. We take every care preparing this magazine but the publishers and distributors cannot be held responsible for the claims of the advertisers nor for the accuracy of the contents nor for any consequence.

Free Maths & English activities with Explore Learning 31st March and 14th April Explore Learning centres provide maths and English tuition to 5-14 year olds of all abilities. Explore fits easily around family life; the centres are open 7 days a week, with children able to attend up to twice a week on a drop-in basis.

On the 31st March or 14th April, your local Explore Learning centre will be hosting a day of free workshops for children ages 5-14 in the local community. Spaces are limited so call your local centre to reserve your place.

Call your local centre to book a free trial, or visit www.explorelearning.co.uk. Local Explore Learning Centres at Darnley and East Kilbride.

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News & Views

Glasgow Tower re-opens for the Summer From the end of March the Glasgow Tower opens for its summer season. Owned and operated by Glasgow Science Centre, the cabin is 102 metres up giving views for about 25 miles around.

Start by looking at the entire structure from the Tower base, the bearing assembly and drive motors that allows the Tower to rotate through 360 degrees to face into the wind, a diorama of the Clyde and ‘explainers’ on the engineering. Lifts take about 2 minutes whilst you watch the River and the Science Centre fall away and the view open up around you! In the cabin get your bearings and spot key landmarks using some cool interactive screens to help you. If you are in a rush you can fit the whole Tower experience into around 60 minutes from start to finish, but if you’ve got time to spare then explore the mini-exhibition and linger in the cabin to make the most of the spectacular photo-opportunities. Don’t forget to visit the Science Centre itself either which has events going on throughout this spring and summer.

Tickets for the Tower cost £6.50, discounted by £3 if you have a valid Science Centre ticket for the same day.

Time to Open the Funbox!

When the owners of the legendary Scottish theatre group The Singing Kettle decided, in 2014, to shut up shop, the current stars; Anya, Kevin and Gary, were having too much fun to let it end there. Anya explains; “We were devastated when we were told it was ending, but when it became clear that the company was not for sale, we decided to start our own show and carry on together”. Funbox is the result. “We have a very loyal fan base and we couldn’t let them down, so we will carry on the great tradition of a family singalong show with lots and lots of audience participation”, says Kevin.

The gang get off to a flying start with the premiere of their ‘Pirates and Princesses’ show at the SECC on Sunday, March the 1st. This will be a very special day, as both shows are being filmed for their debut DVD. The tour then kicks off properly in April, with visits to Kilmarnock, Greenock, Paisley, Giffnock, Cumbernauld, Irvine and Motherwell all coming up through the Spring and Summer.

Gary continues; “We love touring and Funbox will allow us to continue doing what we love”. Funbox will also be playing festivals, events and galas with their ‘Fancy Dress Fun’ tour, with Belladrum Tartan Heart Festival just announcing them as part of their line-up Funbox had its very first outing as part of this year’s prestigious Celtic Connections at The Glasgow Royal Concert Hall.

“Well if you’re going to give something a try-out, 1,600 very excited children is a pretty good way to get things going”, says Kevin.

Funbox’s ‘Pirates and Princesses’ starts March 1st at the SECC, and ‘Fancy Dress Fun’ commences at Cumbernauld Theatre on May 16th.

Full details for both tours can be found at www.funbox. co.uk and you can find out more on facebook and twitter

DON’T MISS OUT If you run a Glasgow business whether it’s a playgroup, cafe, nursery, hotel, soft play, activity class, shop, leisure centre etc and you would like copies of Families Glasgow, let us know how many you require by emailing editor@familiesglasgow.co.uk www.FamiliesGlasgow.co.uk

March/April 2015

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News & Views

Exciting times ahead for The Glasgow Steiner Community!

Bricks 4 Kidz Bricks 4 Kidz® programmes provide an extraordinary atmosphere for students to build unique creations, play games, and have loads of fun using LEGO® bricks. The activities are designed to trigger young children’s lively imaginations and build their self-confidence. We can arrange for After School Programs, Parties, School Holiday Workshops, In-School Workshops and other events can all be arranged through Bricks4 Kidz. Its programmes provide a safe, relaxed learning environment where initiative is invited and self-expression is celebrated. Model building provides opportunities for problem-solving and helps kids develop an appreciation for how things work.

All this takes place while kids are having fun and socialising in a non-competitive atmosphere.

Bricks4 Kidz aims to: introduce engineering and architecture principles; explore maths and science concepts; increase general knowledge through discussions related to each model; develop social/emotional skills such as patience, teamwork and communication in the process of completing a project; enhance self-esteem by solving problems and completing projects; improve fine-motor skills as children manipulate small components; utilise multiple learning modalities to engage visual, kinesthetic and auditory learning styles; teach important classroom skills such as organisation and following directions and foster an appreciation for how things work.

To find out more visit www.bricks4kidz.com

Glasgow Steiner was recently awarded charity status so is now a Scottish Charitable Incorporated Organisation (SCIO) having held its first AGM at the end of February. The Parent & Toddler group in Anniesland is working on some lovely seasonal Spring crafts, and new families are very welcome to join every Friday 10am-12pm. Glasgow Steiner Community is also looking to start a Toddler group in the South of Glasgow soon. The Seedlings group, which currently runs Monday to Thursday 9.35-11.30am for 3-6 year olds, is working with The Care Inspectorate to become a fully registered 5-day Kindergarten by Summer 2015.

The GSC is also in the process of registering as a School with Education Scotland and are searching for suitable premises.

Plans are in hand to have a Steiner Education for 0-11 year olds available again in Glasgow and work is under way! Monthly talks are taking place from March onwards with various guests from the world of Steiner and all are welcome to join.

The Glasgow Steiner Community is also currently looking for Board members to join its SCIO to help strengthen the organisation in this time of growth and development. If you are interested in finding out more about any of the groups please visit www.glasgowsteinercommunity.co.uk and get in touch.

The 55th Annual RODEO On Saturday the 18th of April 2015 from 11am-5pm, hosted by Glasgow University Veterinary Medical Association at the Garscube Estate, Glasgow.

This is Glasgow University’s largest charity fundraising event and is organized completely by vet students. It’s sole purpose is to raise money and awareness for animal welfare-related organizations! This year the RODEO is supporting Guide Dog Scotland, Cat’s Protection, Dog’s Trust, Students for Animals in Need, Trusty Paws Clinic, The Vet Fund, Willow’s Animal Sanctuary and Riding for the Disabled – Glasgow Group.

GUVMA’s Rodeo aims to provide a day of fun and entertainment for the entire family, while supporting charitable causes.

With tons of demonstrations and vendors there will be something for everyone from high flying falcon displays, pony rides, duck herding, and plenty of puppies. Raffle tickets will also be on sale for some amazing prizes, including spa treatments, theme-park admission tickets, and climbing lessons. All the proceeds from the ticket sales will be going to support the RDA.

Join in for Wear a Hat Day

On Friday 27th March for Brain Tumour Research!

The Premier Brain Tumour Awareness event in the UK; helping to support long-term, life-saving research helping move us ever #CloserToACure. There are so many ways to get involved…

Register now to receive your free fundraising pack, then visit the Hatter’s Workshop for all your hatty extras; from posters to quizzes, hat-templates to merchandise order forms. It’s all there and ready to help you, help us make 2015 the hattiest yet! www.braintumourresearch.org/wearahatday

Scottish Mask and Puppet Centre Year Round Children & Families Programme

Shows, Workshops, Birthday Parties

drama for the early years

info@maskandpuppet.co.uk www.maskandpuppet.co.uk

07736298013 www.monkeydrama.co.uk

Tel: 0141 339 6185

8-10 Balcarres Ave, Kelvindale Glasgow G12 0QF

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ALANA@MONKEYDRAMA.CO.UK

News & Views

COMING SOON!

ANNUAL PASSES FROM

£34.50 See website for further details

Join the magical world of Enchanted Forest and Friends to see what you discover

Drop In And Sea Us - Open Daily From 10am

www.deepseaworld.com

1 FREE CHILD

✃

Soon to be launched exclusive children’s clothing and accessories range Enchanted Forest and Friends is the next big thing in children’s fashion. A Scottish based company, the clothing and accessories range was founded by Bernie Devlin a father himself, who was inspired by the birth of his long-awaited for daughter, also brings with him valuable knowledge and experience in the childcare sector as co-founder of Enchanted Forest Nurseries Ltd. The team fully understand parents and the need for stylish clothing that is also durable and affordable.

Combining style, high quality and affordability this 0-5 years clothing range is perfect for all their little adventures! Designed with precious little people in mind, the boys and girls ranges capture the characters of an enchanting story which can be followed online. The Spring Collection stocks items from soft, lightweight t-shirts and trousers to showerproof coats and wellington boots for those rainy days! Complete the look with one of the Enchanted Forest and Friends travel companions, a character backpack which comes with pillow, blanket and detachable reins.

The five friends will be embarking on their magical journey through the Enchanted Forest soon… don’t miss out! #followthefriends on Twitter @EFnFriends. Like the Facebook page Enchanted Forest and Friends or visit the website www.enchantedforestandfriends.com For exciting updates on the adventures of Zed Fox, Humbellina Bee, Sirrel Squirrel, Bertie Bluetit & Fairy Bun Bun!

Find us at North Queensferry, Fife KY11 1JR. t. 01383 411880 By the Forth Rail Bridge, just 20 minutes from Edinburgh

SAV5E0 WITH THIS VOUCHER £9.

1 Free child (worth £9.50) when accompanied by I full paying adult.Voucher not valid with family/e-tickets or any other promotion. Terms and conditions apply.

Photocopies will not be accepted. Offer valid until 30/06/2015. CODE: FGLA

FRIENDS They’ll think it’s COOL.

You’ll know it’s

ENRICHING

memorable

EDUCATIONAL.

awesome different

COOL

ENROLL YOUR CHILD

TODAY!!

www.bricks4kidz.co.uk/glasgow @Bricks4KidzGla

B4KGlasgow BRICKS4KIDZ.CO.UK

LEGO® is a registered trademark of the LEGO® Group of companies which does not sponsor, authorize or endorse these programs.

Creative Learning Corporation common shares are listed on OTCBB under the ticker symbol CLCN. © 2013 Bricks 4 Kidz

Get ready to find those keys, unlock the box and release the fun.

Snappy Tags Take the Pain Out of Clothes Labelling Labelling clothes is such a chore, and so time consuming. Not any more! Snappy Tag TM is the one-click way to label clothing and other items quickly and securely. No more sewing in labels or taking time ironing on adhesive tags that come off in the wash. Snappy Tags is similar to a small button and is very simple to use. The tags come laser-etched with the name you need and will stay securely fastened. So you always know that your child’s clothing will be kept safe– just like your little one.

For more information and to buy Snappy Tags visit www.snappytags.co.uk

March 1 GLASGOW SECC-Lomond www.secc.co.uk April 18 KILMARNOCK Palace Theatre www.eastayrshireleisure.com May 9 GREENOCK Beacon Arts Centre beaconartscentre.co.uk May 10 PAISLEY Town Hall boxoffice.renfrewshire.gov.uk June 27 & 28 IRVINE d Magnum Theatre co m e dr es se as a Pi ra te kaleisure.com ss ce in Pr or Sept 27 MOTHERWELL Concert Hall northlanarkshire.gov.uk

www.funbox.co.uk www.FamiliesGlasgow.co.uk

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Baby & Mum

Baby Play is Not Just for Fun!

By Lynne Murray

W

hilst playing with your baby can be fun, it is not at all trivial. It is one of the main ways in which babies engage with other people, and a fundamental means of developing their social understanding.

How babies play, and the way in which parents can support their play, changes dramatically during their first two years of life. Babies generally become playful from around six weeks, when they start to smile, vocalise and show deliberate facial movements and expressions.

Parents typically find themselves imitating these baby signals, or reacting to them with stereotyped, exaggerated expressions called ‘marking’. These responses are largely automatic, and they help the baby maintain his positive mood and stay engaged. These early exchanges are like ‘conversations,’ and they are a very basic way for babies to sense the connection between their experience and that of someone else - one of the basic building blocks of social understanding.

By around four or five months, a baby’s vision has improved and he or she can focus on things at a distance, and also start to reach out and grab things. These developments mean that a baby’s interests expand, and the previous, purely social, face-to-face play loses its attraction. This can be disconcerting for parents, as they search for new strategies with which to engage their baby.

This is a stage when body games, like ‘pat-a-cake,’ or ‘round and round the garden’ come into their own. Babies quickly become familiar with the different steps of such games, and most of their pleasure comes from the sense of anticipation and climax. These games, and supporting babies play with toys, represent a new form of social relating for the baby - one where play is about a ‘topic’ that baby and parent share together.

Although babies and parents enjoy these body games and toy play, they can also feel something of a ‘one-way-street’ for

Mothering Sunday It’s Mother’s Day this March 15th, so why not put your thinking cap on early and come up with something special for your mum? Or you could start dropping hints for your partner and children to treat you.

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parents, since the baby typically doesn’t show great interest in the parent themselves. This situation changes from around nine months, as relationships shift from being ‘topic-based’ to being more genuinely two-way and connected. Now, babies notice more of what their parents are doing, and will typically want to join in and even, in their own way, ‘help.’ They start to follow simple suggestions, and swap roles with their parent in games like ‘peek-a-boo.’ With this change, parents sometimes feel as if their baby has now become a ‘real’ person, and play can become easier and more satisfying.

This more connected phase culminates in the development of genuinely co-operative behaviour and more mature social understanding from around eighteen months, when babies can appreciate that other people have different experiences from their own, as well as different likes and dislikes. These developments are assisted when parents engage in pretend play, which can support the baby in thinking about the experience of, say, doll characters. Talking about people’s experiences and their feelings, and the reasons for them, either during play or during activities such as sharing picture books, are also important ways for parents to support the growing social understanding of their baby.

So don’t feel that when you are playing with your baby that you are somehow wasting time. You are teaching your baby to become a sociable being!

Lynne Murray is Professor of Developmental Psychology at the University of Reading, and author of The Psychology of Babies: How Relationships Support Development from Birth to Two (Constable & Robinson 2014), in which more information on play, as well as other aspects of babies’ development, is provided.

A day out with the people dearest to you can hit the spot perfectly, so why not check out the many museums, stately homes, farm parks, theme parks and National Trust properties across the country that are running special Mother’s Day events. At many of them Mums go free, so it’s worth doing your research. Top that off with a lie-in and breakfast in bed, and you’ll have the perfect day!

Baby & Mum

Helping babies blossom First specialist clinic in Scotland devoted to the development of babies from pre-birth to pre-school

B

utterfly Baby Clinic was opened last year and is a notfor-profit organisation with a mission to help babies blossom. The services of the Butterfly Baby Clinic have been especially designed by a Developmental Psychologist specialising in early development and recognise:

1. That the first 1001 days of a baby’s life, from conception to age 2, is a critical chapter of their developmental journey;

2. That early experiences from womb to cradle influence a baby’s lifelong health, development and wellbeing;

3. That promoting a baby’s development from pre-birth to pre-school creates a strong foundation for their future hopes and dreams to be built upon.

The Butterfly Baby Clinic offers a range of specialist services to parents including: • Developmental Portraits help parents to track and promote their baby’s unique developmental journey from 0-3 years; • Baby Bond Sessions help parents to nurture their attachment bond with their baby or toddler; • Baby Talk Courses help parents-to-be to discover the language of newborns and learn how to promote their baby’s development.

Blossoming Baby Workshops are free events offering parents, parents-to-be and primary caregivers the special opportunity to discover more about the wonderful world of babies.

This summer the clinic will also be launching The Butterfly Club, which will be the first club of its kind in the world… and right on your doorstep. The club will offer parents the special opportunity to enjoy developmental enrichment sessions with their little ones and attend exclusive social events from teddy bear picnics to interesting talks from special guests. So watch this space!

The Butterfly Baby Clinic is based in central Scotland and currently offers a home visiting service across Glasgow, Edinburgh and the central belt to allow local families to enjoy many of their services within the comfort of their own home. The clinic publishes a free story about ‘The Adventures of Flutterfly and Friends’ on their website each month for you to enjoy with your little one. They also have a thriving community of families on Facebook and Twitter where they post a Fact of the Day about babies each morning followed by interesting articles about babies, toddlers and parenthood throughout each day.

Gift for Families Glasgow Readers: The clinic is offering all of our readers a 10% discount off any Developmental Portraits and Baby Bond sessions purchased before 1st May 2015. Gift Cards are also available. All purchases are valid against bookings until 18th December 2015, so why not plan ahead and purchase a special Birthday Portrait for your little one or a friend at a reduced price. To claim your discount simply enter the code FAMILIES at the check-out of The Butterfly Shop on the clinic website.

To find out more about the Butterfly Baby Clinic and all the services they offer visit www.ButterflyBabyClinic.com or call 0303 303 1001. Don’t forget to join their friendly group on Facebook.com/ButterflyBabyClinic and Twitter @Womb_to_Cradle.

All-inclusive

Offer only £189 90 Minute Portrait Session 1x (8x10”) Print 4x (6x4”) Prints 4x (7x5”) Prints 2x Wallet prints All images supplied on disc t 07767 313910

e info@beauandbelleportraits.co.uk

www.FamiliesGlasgow.co.uk

www.beauandbelleportraits.co.uk

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Baby & Mum

Open 7.30am - 6.00pm Mon to Fri

Inc. Bank Holidays (except Christmas & New Year)

Forest Kindergarten Programme Term time places also available For teachers, students & others working in an educational setting.

Places available for 0 – 5 years Easy parking/drop off ‘Provides a caring & nurturing environment’

(Care inspection report December 2013)

Telephone 0141 631 5235 nursery@cassiltoun.org.uk www.cassiltounstablesnursery.co.uk

Castlemilk Stables, 59 Machrie Road, Castlemilk, G45 0AZ Company Registration No SC423689

Continental Baby & Childrenswear from birth to 9 years 307 Crow Road, Broomhill, Glasgow, G11 7BU www.babyandbeyond-glasgow.co.uk Email: info@babyandbeyond-glasgow.co.uk Call: 0141 339 9449 Open Mondays to Saturdays - 10am to 5.30pm

Music and Dance for Boys and Girls aged 6 months - 5 years www.ballet4babies.co.uk

Buggyfit West, South & East Renfrewshire Buggyfit duo Claire Mackie and Wendy Macleod are passionate about post natal health and Wellbeing and it really does begin here! With 22 years Fitness Industry experience between them, 10 working with Post natal women they are proud to say they have seen hundreds of women through the park gates, and on their way to restoring their pre pregnancy health.

Claire heads up the West End Parks and Wendy the Southside & more recently East Renfrewshire area.

As well as their fitness experience, they also have 4 children between them, and are well aware of the issues both in health and parenting that new Mums encounter. “This allows us to have true empathy for our Mums, and ensures we lead them through a sensible but highly effective workout.”

Each begins and ends outdoors in the park. Mums warm up, go through often a circuit style routine incorporating cardiovascular and conditioning exercises and end with ground work for the core and rehabilitation. All from behind your pram or buggy and yes, in all weathers too!

With a positive attitude, a desire to rebalance your post natal body both physically and mentally, Buggyfit will help you achieve all your fitness goals….

Classes can be found at Kelvingrove, Pollok Park, Rouken Glen, Queens Park and Victoria Park.

OFFER Quote ‘Families Mag’ and receive £2 off your FIRST Block of classes.

Miss Claire info@ballet4babies.co.uk

0775 911 9965

NCT Nearly New Sale in March

Award winning music classes for babies & young children BEARSDEN,MILNGAVIE,LENZIE,BISHOPBRIGGS T: 0141 5737299 E: bearsden.lenzie@monkeymusic.co.uk

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Cash-strapped parents and parentsto-be in Glasgow can find top quality baby clothes, toys and equipment at an upcoming NCT Nearly New Sale. They’ll save around 70% on the cost of brand new items: and support an important local charity at the same time.

Well-established and trusted by over 200,000 parents who visit them every year, NCT Nearly New Sales represent the best sales of excellent quality used baby and children’s items.

NCT’s Glasgow branch provides services to parents across the city, including antenatal classes, breastfeeding advice and regular coffee groups for expectant and new parents.

Your local NCT Nearly New Sale offers an affordable alternative to trawling the

www.FamiliesGlasgow.co.uk

high street for pricey baby products.

Meanwhile, families with baby goods they no longer need can ensure they go to a good home and make some cash at the same time. Items must be in excellent condition, and sellers keep 65% of the proceeds while the rest is returned to fund NCT’s work.

NCT Nearly New Sales are the charity’s largest fundraiser, raising over £1 million every year to help support parents in their communities and through UK wide projects.

NCT Glasgow Branch Nearly New Sale is on Saturday March 21st, 1:303:00pm at Broomhill Church Hall, 64-66 Randolph Road, Glasgow, G11 7JL. Find out more on Facebook.com/NCTGlasgow

Baby & Mum

Baby & Beyond Continental Baby and Childrenswear from birth to 9 years Baby and Beyond is a small Baby Boutique located in Broomhill in the heart of Glasgow’s West End. The shop and online range offer a beautiful and inspiring range of Spanish, Italian and French clothing alongside soft and traditional wooden toys.

The age range is from new born to 9 and whilst a small boutique, it stocks a large selection of clothes to suit every child including Mayoral, Tutto Piccolo, aden + anais, Emile et Rose and many other exclusive brands.

Please pop in or visit the website to view the latest range of clothing or you can choose online and the helpful staff will arrange mail order. www.babyandbeyond.co.uk

Real Nappy Week 2015 Real Nappy Week takes place 20-26 April this year - the real nappy community’s opportunity to celebrate everything fabulous about using cloth nappies. Up and down the country retailers, manufacturers, cloth nappy libraries, local councils (and of course real nappy fans) will hold giveaways and events aiming to spread the word about why we love real nappies. They are a great way to save money, avoid waste to

A Trip to the Theatre with Ballet4babies Young ballet pupils from the Big Stars classes (age3-5) at Ballet4Babies went to see Nutcracker Ballet in the Theatre Royal in Glasgow earlier this year. They had a lovely afternoon at The Ballet and were fortunate enough to meet the little girl who had danced the part of Clara (the lead role) in the performance. She very kindly posed for photographs and signed autographs with the excited dance lovers. landfill and reduce your impact on global warming, plus you can save upwards of £500 by using real nappies on one baby, and even more when siblings come along.

They come in a wide choice of fabrics, styles and colours, or you can even buy bespoke and personalise them!

Make sure you discover the exciting things the real nappy community have planned, from nationwide events to local competitions, opportunities to meet people and get advice and a whole lot more at www.goreal.org.uk/real-nappy-week.

Monkey Drama

Drama classes for the early years Monkey Drama classes are a great way for children to explore their worlds through drama, build confidence and social skills and most importantly, have lots and lots of fun. Monkey Drama have had such an exciting year so far! From defeating Captain Hook and finding his treasure to helping Princess Lula turn her sister back from a mouse to a Princess again. Not only that, they have saved the Gingerbread man and all his little friends, walked the rainbow, flown through the sky with the help of fairy dust and that was just for starters! Each week the children can learn, imagine and explore as parents sit back and watch or just relax while the little ones go on their amazing creative journeys! Weekly classes for 2-5 year olds run at Broomhill Community Church on Fridays at either 9.45am or 11am.

Get in touch to book your FREE trial class! Visit the website for info on prices and class times www.monkeydrama. co.uk, email alana@monkeydrama.co.uk or call 07736298013

KidO A musical adventure for 3-4 year olds

Thurs 19 Mar 2pm Fri 20 Mar 11am & 2pm Cottiers Theatre, Glasgow Tickets: Adults £8, Children £6 (inc. booking fee)

0141 357 4000 | cottiers.com

For more information go to

Scottish Opera is core funded by

scottishopera.org.uk Registered in Scotland Number SCO37531 Scottish Charity Number SCO19787

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Young Glasgow

Glasgow Kidz Card: The Must-Have Card for Active Families

G

et out and about during 2015 without breaking the bank with a Glasgow Kidz Card! This little piece of plastic gives your child access to lots of cool offers and activities whilst saving you money!

Activities include: • Free swimming at all Glasgow Life pools • Free book and DVD hire at all Glasgow Libraries • Free or discounted school Holiday Programme activities • Free Take 2 films at the GFT for cardholders and an accompanying adult • Discounts in Glasgow Museum’s shops • Reduced rate entry to the Bank of Scotland Great Scottish Junior Run • Discounts in shops and restaurants such as Hamleys and Di Maggios …Plus lots more amazing offers not to be missed!

To be eligible for a Glasgow Kidz Card your child must either be aged 5 – 11 years and living or attending primary school within the Glasgow boundary or aged 4 years and due to start a Glasgow primary school in August 2015.

For new applications you can pick up an application form from your local Glasgow Library. To download an application or to apply for a replacement card please visit www.youngglasgow.org.uk

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Young Glasgow

Free & Discounted Family Activities This Spring

J

oin the thousands of Glasgow kids who enjoy our free or discounted Holiday Programme activities when they show their Kidz Card!

When the schools close for the holidays, Glasgow Life opens their doors to let the kids in! Our community centres, libraries, museums and Glasgow Clubs are bursting with fun activities we know your kids will love.

Coming up this spring we’ve got: • Arts and crafts • Indoor and outdoor play • Music workshops • Games ...Plus lots more

So if you’re a parent who wants their kids away from the tv, or maybe you just want a few hours of peace and quiet, let our friendly Glasgow Life staff entertain the kids so you can relax.

Why not bring friends or go along and make some new ones!

Need a new or replacement Glasgow Kidz Card?

Call us on 0141 276 0727 to find out how to apply.

(Open Mon-Fri, 9am-5pm) Find out more about the Holiday Programme at youngglasgow.org.uk Facebook.com/YoungGlasgow Twitter.com/Young_Glasgow

ivities t c a t s Mo free or are ed with t discounGlasgow your Card Kidz

Y A D I L O H E TH E M M A R G PRO IS BACK! Keep the kids entertained during the school holidays ARTS & CRAFTS | PLAY | MUSIC | SPORTS | EXPLORE | & MORE!

Find out more at youngglasgow.org.uk www.FamiliesGlasgow.co.uk

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Easter Activities

The Subway Family Fun Day returns!

Sunday 19th April

Dinosaurs Return!

Discover a Lost World at Edinburgh Zoo

Visit Edinburgh Zoo this Easter and become a prehistoric explorer for the day! Get up close to the life-sized animatronic giants who have taken over the top of the hill. Meet our specially trained dinosaur keepers and see what you can discover on a As recommendedconnection by fossil dig. Spot the evolutionary between dinosaurs and the animals here at the Zoo, learn about the very real Kids’ uniform going astray? threats faced by our endangered BUY OF THE DAYspecies and what you can do to safeguard their future.

Children’s parties just got bigger! Have a ‘roar-some’ day at ed Edinburgh Zoo with our new dinosaur kid’s party packages.

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The Easter holidays are fast approaching and what better way to spend the last day than a fun filled afternoon with the Subway Family Fun Day! Last year’s Family Day went down a treat with wee people and big people alike and this year’s promises to be bigger than ever. What’s more, the whole day is free! There’ll be magicians, face painting, amazing balloon art plus plenty more surprises to be announced. So join the fun on the famous Glasgow Subway.

Don’t forget to keep up to date with the latest news at www.spt.co.uk/family, or follow us on Twitter @GlasgowSubway. Make sure you’ve signed your wee ones up to the Subway Smartcard for even more exclusive offers and competitions on the day! www.spt.co.uk/smart

Hockey in the Holidays Spider Hockey Camps are aimed at boys and girls aged 4 – 18 years old of all abilities and are geared for players to develop their core hockey skills, games play and team skills in a relaxed and enjoyable environment. Spider Hockey Coaching delivers quality, fun, expert hockey coaching holiday camps and skills days/clinics across the West of Scotland so look out for their Easter and Summer camps. .

The Spider Hockey Coaching team consists of top hockey coaches, international players and Olympians who have years of experience, from playing and coaching both domestically and abroad so if your child wants to try out hockey or improve their skills find out more at www.spiderhockeycoaching.co.uk.

Easter Camps this year are taking place in Milngavie, Anniesland and the West End. Call 07795 295 694 or Email euan@spiderhockeycoaching.co.uk

Easter Activities

Language Fun During the Holidays Have you started looking for school/nursery holiday cover yet? The Language Hub will be offering half days at the hub during the Easter holidays for children to enjoy language based entertaining and engaging activities while you are at work. Cover available for 4-8 year olds between 7th-10th April and 13th-17th April from 8.30am to 1.30pm or 12.30pm to 5.30pm.

Limited places available so please book early. Costs are £25 per child per session/half day (discounts on multiple bookings possible).

Spot the Diving Easter Bunny at Deep Sea World A fearless Easter Bunny is taking the plunge at Deep Sea World, Scotland’s national aquarium, over the Easter holiday weekend (starting April 3rd) – in search of shark eggs!

The diving bunny – complete with floppy ears and basket – is exploring the depths of the North Queensferry aquarium’s 4.5 million litre Underwater Safari for shark and ray egg-cases as well as helping out with fish feeds.

Young visitors will also be able to take part in a fun Easter Egg Hunt around the aquarium, there is an Easter ‘Grotto’ with a selection of children’s activities on offer, as well as face painting, and additional talks and feeding demonstrations.

The Diving Bunny is just the first of the Easter Fun Frolics planned at Deep Sea World. They are also hosting their famous Mermaid event with previews on the evening of Thursday 9th April followed by Mermaid dives throughout the weekend of the 11th and 12th April with special photo opportunities at the rock pool with the real life mermaid herself!!

Find Deep Sea World on facebook for regular updates on all things water creatures, sharks and fishy fun events!

Scottish Youth Theatre’s Summer Festival 2015 Performance courses for young people aged 8-15.

If you are planning even further ahead than the Easter Holidays, we’ve got an idea for the summer months. Are you looking for something fun and creative to do over the summer holidays? Scottish Youth Theatre offers two popular courses ideal for young people who want to further their skills and knowledge in a fun and safe environment. Participants will work on acting skills, choreography, music and characterisation to create and rehearse a brand new piece of theatre to be performed in a professional theatre venue on the last day of the course.

Foundation Course (ages 12-15)

• 2 weeks, 6 July-18 July or 13 July-25 July (option to select preferred dates) • Junior Course (ages 8-11) • 1 week, 3 August-8 August

For lots more fun Easter ideas and activities visit www.familiesglasgow.co.uk

Every year, hundreds of young people who are passionate about theatre and performance come from all over Scotland and beyond, to make friends, develop confidence and learn about performing.

The atmosphere was amazing, everyone wanted to be there and was passionate about what we were doing... One of the most fun and rewarding experiences ever!

Participant, Summer Festival

Now’s your chance to shine! Apply now!

For further info and to apply visit www.scottishyouththeatre.org www.FamiliesGlasgow.co.uk

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Maths & English tuition centre For 5 to 14 year olds of all abilities • Courses mapped to the Curriculum for Excellence.

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0141 639 2922 www.belmontschool.co.uk

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Nursery & School News

Are you joining Enchanted Forest Early Learning this Easter?

D

ue to continued success Enchanted Forest Nurseries are expanding and opening a brand new nursery in Glasgow!

Since starting the company in 2006 with just one nursery in the heart of Erskine, founder Mariessa Devlin has expanded her award winning nursery chain throughout Scotland with 4 nurseries in Erskine, Greenock, Inverkip and Thornliebank in Glasgow’s Southside. The ethos of Enchanted Forest Early Learning and Childcare centres focuses on creating a safe, warm and friendly environment for children to become leaders of their own learning and for parents to be fully involved in their child’s development. Offering fully flexible session bookings, funded places and opening hours from 7am to 7pm, Enchanted Forest extend their promise of ‘Where Little People Feel Precious’ to parents in helping you to find the best childcare solution for your family.

Find out more about Belmont House School Nursery Belmont House School's Nursery has partnership status with East Renfrewshire Council and is an exciting place to start education. Located in a spacious, vibrant building at the heart of the School, the Nursery provides 3-5 year olds with a wide range of educational experiences, cultivating solid foundations where confidence is developed, enquiry encouraged and a love of learning is established.

There is a stimulating active learning curriculum, building strong links for a seamless transition into Junior 1. An extensive Nursery Garden and outdoor learning space is available in addition to access to the facilities and expertise of the School as a whole, including the Junior School teaching staff and the excellent resources in the Music, IT, Modern Languages and Physical Education departments of the Senior School.

With the key area of Robroyston expanding rapidly and seeing huge economic and social developments, Enchanted Forest Nurseries recognised the need for a high-quality, easily accessible and affordable early learning and childcare centre to serve families in local and surrounding areas as well as families travelling along the nearby M80 to get to work.

Mariessa and her team are extremely excited about opening the new nursery in Nova Business Park, Robroyston and extend a warm welcome to all to visit the centre and see for themselves what a great place Enchanted Forest is, for children and parents alike!

Trust Enchanted Forest Nurseries to provide the very best for your child…

Visit the website or follow on Twitter: www.enchantedforestnurseries.co.uk info@enchantedforestnursery.co.uk @EFnurseries @EFGreenock @EFInverkip @EFErskine @EFThornliebank @EFRobroyston

Kelvinside Academy hits all the right notes Pupils from Senior Prep to Senior 2 enjoyed a visit from the rock band ‘In Hindsight’. In Hindsight are a young 3 piece pop/ rock band from Nottingham, consisting of brothers Michael (17 - vocals/bass) Daniel (16 - drums/bvox), and Isaac (18 guitar/bvox).They delivered a powerful message to help our pupils understand how to tackle cyber bullying and how to stay safe online. Everyone thoroughly enjoyed the show and the band were kind enough to sign autographs after the show.

Meanwhile at the other end of the musical spectrum a group of pupils involved in the Scottish Opera workshops visited “opera unwrapped”. The session was an insight into how the production of Ines de Castro was put together and although not the most pleasant storyline, the pupils found it very interesting.

They heard from the composer himself, James MacMillan, the assistant directors, the gentleman involved in making the blood for the rather horrific scenes as well as hearing some of the opera performed. They also heard the singer who plays the executioner being interviewed and then singing one of his gruesome numbers. www.FamiliesGlasgow.co.uk

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Family Holidays

Forest Holidays Argyll Cabins Ardgartan, Loch Long (near Tarbet) www.forestholidays.co.uk

By Families Glasgow Editor

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Family Holidays

S

itting in a hot tub on the shore of Long Long with a glass of wine while admiring the stunning views of the forest flowing down the mountainside almost into the loch, it was hard to believe we were little more than an hour’s drive from Glasgow. The former campsite on the Ardgartan promontory is now owned by Forest Holidays and in this fantastic location they have built 40 luxurious self-catering log cabins as well as a café and shop. Forest Holidays work in partnership with the Forestry Commission so there is a strong emphasis on creating eco-sensitive holidays.

Accommodation

The brilliantly designed log cabins are roomy, very bright and well-appointed with large TV (including a decent media package), decent sized kitchen table and fluffy dressing gowns!

We stayed in the Golden Oak class of cabin which sleeps 8.

The Silver Birch sleeps 4-6 in either 2 or 3 bedrooms. The Golden Oaks are positioned loch side around the perimeter of the promontory so although pricier, it’s most definitely worth paying the extra for the unimpeded views of the loch and surrounding hills. The hot tubs are a superb addition and must extend their season considerably as it’s very pleasant to sit outside even when cool, perhaps even in the snow!

Things To Do Nearby

Ardgartan is just 15 minutes from Tarbet and Loch Lomond so we enjoyed a misty boat trip up the loch (the ticket price includes a nip, which was nice!). Obviously the National Park is close by if you want to hike and the ‘Arrochar Alps’ include a Monroe or two. The traditional pub, the Village Inn at Arrochar is family friendly. The Loch Lomond Sea Life centre is less than 30 minute drive. Inverary on Loch Fyne is only about 30mins drive, with its famous gaol and is worth a visit. Helensburgh is about 30 mins away also. Go Ape Aberfoyle isn’t too far but they only accept children over 10.

Our Family Opinion

As a family, we absolutely loved it at Ardgartan and will definitely return. If you love walking, cycling and canoeing then this is really worth a visit. There’s plenty of other fun activities nearby to wear out the children and in the evenings, well, that hot tub is just so tempting, whatever the weather…

Facilities

On site there is a convenience store with local fresh produce and a pleasant café overlooking the children’s play area. The site with only one road in and out, is more or less enclosed so there were plenty of kids bombing around safely on their trikes and bikes. The café can deliver pizza to your cabin in the evenings and fresh rolls and croissants in the morning which is a nice touch.

On Site Activities

As you can imagine with a company working in partnership with the Forestry Commission there is very much an emphasis on enjoying the outdoors. Canoes and cycles can be rented on site and there is an extensive network of nearby trails to walk or bike, including some suitable for push chairs and the very young. (Dogs are allowed but not in all cabins, so check their website for details).

Our family particularly enjoyed the guided Forest Ranger walk which took place at twilight and was suitable for all ages.

He pointed out otter signs, birds nests, insects and informed us of the proper names for all sorts of woodland flora.

i

Forest Holidays has nine locations in the UK, two of which are in Scotland in Ardgartan Argyll and Strathyre, offering luxurious cabins with hot tubs and fun Forest Ranger activities on site.

March Special Offers Discounts of 15% are available on all midweek 4 night breaks in English locations including Yorkshire, Sherwood, Forest of Dean and Norfolk from 2-23 March 2015 Simply enter MADNESS15 in the promotional code box.

Sample price

A 2 bed cabin with hot tub sleeping 4 is reduced to only 250.75 for a 4 night midweek break in Deerpark, Cornwall this March -LESS THAN £16 POUNDS PER NIGHT EACH!

visit www.forestholidays.co.uk or call 03330 110495 www.FamiliesGlasgow.co.uk

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Family Holidays

Harvest Moon Holidays, Lochouses, East Lothian www.harvestmoonholidays.com info@harvestmoonholidays.com

By Families Glasgow Editor

Glamping in the Gloamin’

O

ne balmy evening, last September, we stood atop a sand dune on the ‘Forth Riviera' looking down at a white sandy mile-long beach and saw not one single person. It was hard to believe we were just a thirty minute drive east of Edinburgh. As we admired the stunning views of the Forth estuary and the Bass Rock, the kids bombed down the sand dune on the sledges they'd just borrowed from the ‘glamp site'.

Harvest Moon is ideally located to unplug, switch off, enjoy the sea air and walk, cycle, swim, surf (and sledge) with the family. The site is at the end of several miles of country lane (adjoining the John Muir Country Park)and there is no public parking nearby which ensures plenty of space on a beautiful beach. Sunny Dunny, or Dunbar, is close by, which claims to be the UK's driest and sunniest town.

Glamping at Harvest Moon Holidays means staying in one of their luxury safari tents on the beach (sleeps 6-8) or their new Treehouses (sleeps 6). There are seven Treehouses, amply spaced apart, with a communal sitting area and huge bonfire pit.

There is no electricity, no wireless broadband and the kitchen has a log-burning stove. So each morning you can pick up fresh battery-powered lanterns and an ice-box from the unmanned reception cabin where you can also purchase fresh bread and eggs as well as other supplies using an honesty box.

Treehouse Accommodation

The Treehouses are basically raised log cabins about two metres off the ground. They each have two bedrooms (one with bunks) plus another double bed in the main living area which, like on a yacht, doubles as the kitchen table.

A covered walkway joins the kitchen to the bedrooms and the shower room which has a gas powered hot shower. The highlight is probably the veranda with fantastic views of fields, dunes and Bass Rock. We saw a deer and a hare while playing a family board game which was fun. Each Treehouse comes fully equipped with cutlery, crockery etc (but no electricals obviously) and each has a BBQ and a couple of swings.

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Family Holidays

On site activities

Obviously there is the beach, the sea, with endless walking, cycling, pony riding, fishing and wildlife. We took a picnic and the kids were happy to spend all day on the beach, the younger ones building sandcastles and rockpooling while our oldest soon made friends and played hide and seek in the dunes.

There is a stack of communal balls and outdoor toys to borrow plus a football pitch.

There is also a small animal petting area where the children can feed and hold the rabbits and chickens. (For a small extra fee they'll place a small hutch beside your treehouse but we couldn't see the point of that as the main hutches were so close anyway!)

Our Family Opinion

Useful tips: bring binoculars for the wildlife, board games and a camping stove if you have one. Although I enjoyed the log burning kitchen stove, it takes 40 minutes to light, heat up and boil a kettle. But in the morning I need caffeine much quicker than that!

Highlights: The spectacular beach and plenty of free activities to entertain the kids; awesome screen-free weekend with candle-lit family board games; Clear skies, sound of the sea and fresh air; Peace and tranquillity (once the kids have gone to sleep!) If you went with friends, the communal firepit looks like it could be a lot of fun.

Overall: highly recommended.

Things to do nearby

Wakeboarding at Foxlake is five minutes drive away, which older kids especially enjoy. www.foxlake.co.uk For younger kids, East Links Family Park has a train, exotic animals galore, softplays and giant climbing frames, a café, and so much more.

Nearby, at East Fortune, there is the National Museum of Flight with plenty of activities for children: www.nms.ac.uk/national-museum-of-flight/ Take a boat trip from North Berwick and visit the Scottish Seabird sanctuary. www.seabird.org Edinburgh is only 20 minutes away on the train from Dunbar and the National Museum on Chambers St (Free Entry) is brilliant for kids of all ages.

i

The 2015 season starts 3rd April. The safari tents season ends after the October half-term with the last week commencing 31st October.

The treehouses are open all year and are especially cosy for the New Year festivities.

Prices per treehouse (sleeping up to six people)

Weekend breaks from £630, mid-week breaks from £590 and a week from from £820.

Price per safari tent (sleep 8)

Weekend from £525, Mid-week from £495 and full week from £685. www.harvestmoonholidays.com www.FamiliesGlasgow.co.uk

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Coming soon to Robroyston

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What’s On KidO - Show for 3-4 year olds in Glasgow this March Join us in a world of sound and rhythm where anything can happen. Building on the success of BabyO and SensoryO, our muchloved productions for babies and toddlers, KidO is a brand-new show for 3-4 year olds and their carers which takes the infinite possibilities of everyday objects, mixes in a healthy dose of imagination and makes the everyday extraordinary.

Encouraging play and make-believe, the show features a mix of live singing, opera and specially

From 1 March to 29 March Every Sun Family Weekend Activities Whitlee Windfarm, Moor Road, Eaglesham, Glasgow, G76 OQQ 0141 6140851 www.whiteleewindfarm.co.uk Free Family activities.

From 1 March Every Sat, Sun Full Steam Ahead Glasgow Museums Resource Centre, 200 Woodhead Road, South Nitshill Industrial Estate, Glasgow, G53 7NN 0141 276 9300 www.glasgowlife.org.uk Discover all about steam power.

1pm-3pm 1 March

From 7 March to 28 March Every Sat Amazonia Explorers Amazonia, Strathclyde Country Park, Motherwell, ML1 3RT 01698 333 777 www.discoveramazonia.co.uk Explore different wildlife themes.

3pm-5pm / £3 per child, per session or all 7 sessions for £15.

7 March The Frog Prince & Other Tales Scottish Mask and Puppet Theatre, 8-10 Balcarras Avenue, Kelvindale, Glasgow, G12 0QF 0141 339 6185 www.maskandpuppet.co.uk Princess Stephanie is on the lookout for a handsome prince 2pm 7 March

Pirates and Princesses Funbox www.funbox.co.uk Release the fun with this tour that starts at the Glasgow SECC. Get ready to find those keys, unlock the box and release the fun. Come dressed as a pirate or princess. Other dates include April 18: Palace Theatre, Kilmarnock, May 9: Beacon Arts Centre, Greenock, May 10: Town Hall, Paisley, June 27-28: Magnum Theatre, Irvine, Sept 27: Motherwell Concert Hall From 1 March to 26 April Every other Sun Owly Wise Rouken Glen Park, Rouken Glen Road, Giffnock, Glasgow, G46 7LL www.roukenglenpark.co.uk Get up close and handle the birds. 2pm-4pm From 1 March to 29 March

How the elephant got its trunk Scottish Youth Theatre, The Old Sherriff Court, 105 Brunswick Street, Glasgow, G1 1TF 0141 552 3988 www.scottishyouththeatre.org An interactive storytelling adventure for 3-7’s and the whole family!

10.30am & 12.30pm / £5 From 7 March to 8 March Pinocchio Paisley Arts Centre, New Street, Paisley, PA1 1JF 0141 887 1010 www.renfrewshire.gov.uk This 1940 Disney classic follows inventor Gepetto, as he creates a wooden puppet called Pinocchio.

2pm / £4 (£2 conc) + booking fee 7 March Tall Tales Tron Theatre Ltd, 63 Trongate, Glasgow, G1 5HB 0141 572 4267 www.tron.co.uk Tall Tales are fun-filled storytelling sessions, brought to life with props, movement, music, percussion and creative play 11.30am / £5

written music, using vocal and body percussion to create exciting rhythms and build up words in the blink of an eye. Directed by acclaimed children’s theatre director Lu Kemp, with music by Katy Lavinia Cooper, KidO tells the story of two very different characters who find it difficult to share a space. Can they find a way to live together with a little help from their friends?

Thurs 19 Mar 2pm Fri 20 Mar 11am & 2pm Cottiers Theatre, Glasgow 0141 357 4000 cottiers.com

From 7 March to 18 March Every Sat Tiny Tales Tron Theatre Ltd, 63 Trongate, Glasgow, G1 5HB 0141 572 4267 www.tron.co.uk Tiny Tales are fun-filled storytelling sessions, brought to life with props, movement, music, percussion and creative play 10.30am / £5 From 8 March Every other Sun Den Building Finlaystone Country Park, Finlaystone Mansion House, Langbank, Port Glasgow, PA14 6TJ 01475 540505 www.finlaystone.co.uk Build a den and learn survival tips. 1pm-3pm 8 March Family Film Burrell Collection, Pollok Country Park, 2060 Pollokshaws Road, Glasgow, G43 1AT 0141 287 2550 www.glasgowlife.org.uk Family film shown in the lecture theatre. 2pm 8 March The Three Pigs & Other Tales Scottish Mask and Puppet Theatre, 8-10 Balcarras Avenue, Kelvindale, Glasgow, G12 0QF 0141 339 6185 www.maskandpuppet.co.uk Tales introduced by the mischievous Algy the dog. 2pm 14 March The Beatroot & Lace Bazaar GSA Student Union (the Vic), 20 Scott Street, Glasgow, G3 6PE www.beatrootandlacebazaar.co.uk Vintage Fair with Artisans, Art & Music at The Art School returns for the next installment. Join us each month for stalls packed with vintage delights, handmade goods, art exhibits, buskers performing around the venue and Bazaar goings on!

FREE ENTRY TO ALL!!

Every Sat, Sun Rainforest Explorers Backpack Kelvingrove Art Gallery And Museum, Argyle Street, Glasgow, G3 8AG 0141 276 9599 www.glasgowlife.org Pick up a backpack to complete our activity trail!

All these events and MORE can be found out www.familiesglasgow.co.uk

Music: Katy Lavinia Cooper Director: Lu Kemp Designer: Ali Maclaurin Performers: Frances Morrison-Allen, Stuart Semple & Andrew McTaggart Devised with: Darren Abrahams, Neil Johnson, Lu Kemp, Ali Maclaurin, Andrew McTaggart, Frances Morrison-Allan & Stuart Semple.

Thurs 26 Mar 12noon & 3pm Fri 27 Mar 11am & 2pm The Beacon, Greenock 01475 723 723 beaconartscentre.co.uk

14 March Celebrating Scotland’s Sharks Sea Life Loch Lomond Aquarium, Drumkinnon Tower, Ben Lomond Way, Balloch, G83 8QL 01389 756429 www.visitsealife.com/loch-lomond Head to SEA LIFE Loch Lomond Aquarium on March 14th for the second Celebrating Scotland’s Sharks Event! 10am-5pm / £13.20 14 March The FUN-Tastic Show

by Jango Starr Scottish Mask and Puppet Theatre, 8-10 Balcarras Avenue, Kelvindale, Glasgow, G12 0QF 0141 339 6185 www.maskandpuppet.co.uk Classic clownish capers. 2pm 14 March Get your Hands Dirty!

Kirkintilloch Mugdock Country Park, Craigallian Road, Nr Milngavie, Glasgow, G62 8EL 0141 956 6100 www.mugdock-country-park.org.uk Help take care of nature reserve.

10.30am-12pm 14 March Saturday Family Films: Despicable Me 2 Eastwood Park Theatre, Eastwood Park, Rouken Glen Road, Glasgow, G46 6UG 0141 577 4956 www.eastrenfrewshire.gov.uk More minion madness. 10am / £2 14 March Save a Spider Day 8 Legged Friends Whitlee Windfarm, Moor Road, Eaglesham, Glasgow, G76 OQQ 0141 6140851 www.whiteleewindfarm.co.uk Learn about the spiders that live at Whitelee and why they are so important this ‘Save a Spider Day’! 2pm-2.30pm 15 March Junior Cross Country Finlaystone Country Park, Finlaystone Mansion House, Langbank, Port Glasgow, PA14 6TJ 01475 540505 www.finlaystone.co.uk Fun run. 1pm-3pm

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What’s On 15 March Stories, Jokes and Poems Eastwood Park Theatre, Eastwood Park, Rouken Glen Road, Glasgow, G46 6UG 0141 577 4956 www.eastrenfrewshire.gov.uk Funny, silly, high energy show.

11am / Standard £9 Concession/ child £5 Family £22 19 March KidO Cottiers, 93-95 Hyndland Street, Glasgow, G11 5PU 0141 357 5825 www.scottishopera.org.uk/ our-operas/14-15/kido Join us in a world of sound and rhythm where anything can happen. Building on the success of BabyO and SensoryO, our much-loved productions for babies and toddlers, KidO is a brand-new show for 3-4 year olds and their carers which takes the infinite possibilities of everyday objects, mixes in a healthy dose of imagination and makes the everyday extraordinary.

Encouraging play and makebelieve, the show features a mix of live singing, opera and specially written music, using vocal and body percussion to create exciting rhythms and build up words in the blink of an eye. KidO tells the story of two very different characters who find it difficult to share a space. Can they find a way to live together with a little help from their friends? 2pm (Thurs) 11am & 2pm (Friday) / See website for more information.

From 21 March to 9 April Get your Hands Dirty, Lenzie Mugdock Country Park, Craigallian Road, Nr Milngavie, Glasgow, G62 8EL 0141 956 6100 www.mugdock-country-park.org.uk Help take care of nature reserve.

21 March

21 March Wildlife Explorer Group: Water Voles Rspb Lochwinnoch Nature Reserve, Largs Road, Lochwinnoch, PA12 4JF 01505842663 www.rspb.org.uk Children’s nature activity group.

10am-12pm / £2 From 21 March to 22 March Jack & The Beanstalk

by Clive Chandler Scottish Mask and Puppet Theatre, 8-10 Balcarras Avenue, Kelvindale, Glasgow, G12 0QF 0141 339 6185 www.maskandpuppet.co.uk A traditional story with a twist 2pm 22 March Celtic Connections Family Ceilidh Glasgow Royal Concert Hall, 2 Sauchiehall Street, Glasgow, G2 3NY 0141 353 8000 www.glasgowconcerthalls.com Get ready to hop, twirl, leap and jump at our Family Ceilidh! 3pm/£5 22 March The Chuckle Brothers Pavilion Theatre, 121 Renfield Street, Glasgow, G2 3AX 0141 332 1846 www.paviliontheatre.co.uk Fun packed family show with The Chuckle Brothers. / £14 - £52 22 March Family Film: Autism Friendly Screening Burrell Collection, Pollok Country Park, 2060 Pollokshaws Road, Glasgow, G43 1AT 0141 287 2550 www.glasgowlilfe.org.uk Join a bespectacled young wizard on his very first adventure. 2pm 22 March The Great British Dog Walk Pollok Country Park, 2060 Pollokshaws Road, Glasgow, G43 0141 276 0924 www.thegreatbritishdogwalk.org Support Hearing Dogs for Deaf People and join in the Great British Dog Walk at Pollok Park, Glasgow on March 22nd! 11am / Adult £10, Child £5 22 March

How the Rhino got it’s Skin Scottish Youth Theatre, The Old Sherriff Court, 105 Brunswick Street, Glasgow, G1 1TF 0141 552 3988 www.scottishyouththeatre.org An interactive storytelling adventure for 3-7’s and the whole family! 10.30am & 12.30pm / £5

Punch and Judy Comes to Town By Professor Clive Scottish Mask and Puppet Theatre, 8-10 Balcarras Avenue, Kelvindale, Glasgow, G12 0QF 0141 339 6185 www.maskandpuppet.co.uk Watch out for the Crocodile, Punch, Judy & the Baby, a variety of marionettes, juggling and the jolly sound of the mechanical organ 2pm

21 March

28 March

Our Larkhall Larkhall Leisure Centre, Broomhill Road, Larkhall, ML9 1QP 01698 881742 www.slleisureandculture.co.uk A one day celebration of the community of Larkhall. 1pm-6pm

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March/April 2015

A Festival of Colour Kelvingrove Art Gallery And Museum, Argyle Street, Glasgow, G3 8AG 0141 276 9599 www.glasgowlife.org.uk Festival celebrating our colourful paintings of spring. 1.30–4pm

28 March The Funny World of Magic

by Alan’s Magic Scottish Mask and Puppet Theatre, 8-10 Balcarras Avenue, Kelvindale, Glasgow, G12 0QF 0141 339 6185 www.maskandpuppet.co.uk Magical mayhem in this, colourful, fun and interactive magic show for all the family 2pm 28 March Louis Pearl The Amazing Bubble Man Kings Theatre, 297-335 Bath Street, Glasgow, G2 4JN 01355 258669 www.atgtickets.com Thrilling show filled with art, magic, science and bubbles.

2pm / £14.90 plus £2.85 transaction fee 28 March Messy Museum!

Glasgow Museums Resource Centre, 200 Woodhead Road, South Nitshill Industrial Estate, Glasgow, G53 7NN 0141 276 9300 www.glasgowlife.org.uk Create your own messy artwork!

11am‚Äì 12noon and 2‚Äì3pm 29 March Family Yoga Adventure The Language Hub, 52 Keith Court, Glasgow, G11 6QW Family Yoga adventure with Firefly Yoga for Youth £4 per child, drop in or book your place. 3.30pm-4.15pm www.thelanguagehub.co.uk 29 March

3 April Bonnets and Baskets Scotland Street School Museum, 225 Scotland Street, Glasgow, G5 8QB 0141 287 0500 www.glasgowlife.org.uk Make a fab Easter bonnet or create a basket 11am‚Äì 12.30pm & 1.30‚Äì3.30pm 3 April Cadbury Easter Egg Trail Holmwood House, 61+AC063 Netherlee Road, Cathcart, Glasgow, G44 3YU 0844 493 2204 www.nts.org.uk Turn eggsplorer at Holmwood House... collect the clues, solve the puzzle and win a Cadbury treat! 11am-3pm / £2 From 3 April to 6 April Cadbury Easter Egg Trail Greenbank Garden, Flenders Road, Clarkston, Glasgow, G76 8RB 08444932201 www.nts.org.uk Turn eggsplorer at Greenbank House and Garden... collect the clues, solve the puzzle and win a Cadbury treat! 11am - 5pm / £2 From 3 April to 6 April Cadbury Easter Egg Trail Pollok House, 2060 Pollokshaws Road, Glasgow, G43 1AT 0844 4932208 www.nts.org.uk Turn eggsplorer at Pollok House and Garden... collect the clues, solve the puzzle and win a Cadbury treat! 10am-4pm / £2 From 3 April to 6 April

Mothers Day Treat Finlaystone Country Park, Finlaystone Mansion House, Langbank, Port Glasgow, PA14 6TJ 01475 540505 www.finlaystone.co.uk Special events for Mother’s Day. 1pm-3pm 29 March Southside Mother and Baby Fayre 2015 Pollokshields Burgh Hall, 70 Glencairn Drive, Pollokshields, Glasgow, G41 4LL 0141 423 8858 www.merrygoroundglasgow.co.uk As Glasgow's very first independent Mother and Baby Fayre, the event will be a one-stop shop for all things pregnancy and baby in the Southside and beyond.

11am-4pm / £2

Easter 2 April RSNO Teddy Bears Picnic Henry Wood Hall, 73 Claremont Street, Glasgow, G3 7JB 0141 225 3555 www.rsno.org.uk Fun concert for under 7’s. / £6 (Adult + 1 Child); £8 (Adult + 2 Children); £3 (Extra Adult or Child)

How the Alphabet was made Scottish Youth Theatre, The Old Sherriff Court, 105 Brunswick Street, Glasgow, G1 1TF 0141 552 3988 www.scottishyouththeatre.org An interactive storytelling adventure for 3-7’s and the whole family. 10.30am, 12.30pm & 3.30pm / £5 From 3 April to 7 April Peregrine Falcon Watch!

Easter Weekend Special Falls Of Clyde Wildlife Reserve, New Lanark World Heritage Site, South Lanarkshire, ML11 9DB www.newlanark.org.uk Complete our peregrine clue trail to our watch site over the Easter weekend and receive your FREE Easter egg 10am-4pm

All these events and MORE can be found out www.familiesglasgow.co.uk

What’s On 4 April Do you Believe?

Eastwood Park Theatre, Eastwood Park, Rouken Glen Road, Glasgow, G46 6UG 0141 577 4956 www.eastrenfrewshire.gov.uk Wish Upon A Star Entertainment presents ‘Do You Believe?’ an interactive children’s show at Eastwood Park Theatre. 11am & 2pm / Standard £9 Child £5 Family £22 From 4 April to 14 April Holiday Eggstravagansa!

Scotland Street School Museum, 225 Scotland Street, Glasgow, G5 8QB 0141 287 0500 www.glasgowlife.org.uk Bring along a hard boiled egg and dress it up. 11am– 12.30pm & 1.30–3.30pm 4 April

5 April Drop-In Puppet Making & Cafe Day Scottish Mask and Puppet Theatre, 8-10 Balcarras Avenue, Kelvindale, Glasgow, G12 0QF 0141 339 6185 www.maskandpuppet.co.uk Drop in and have some fun and great refreshments. 11.00am - 4pm 5 April Easter Duck Race Falls Of Clyde Wildlife Reserve, New Lanark World Heritage Site, South Lanarkshire, ML11 9DB www.newlanark.org Help raise money for the Scottish Wildlife Trust, Falls of Clyde at their annual Easter Duck Race!

3pm / £2 6 April Drop-In Puppet Making & Cafe Day Scottish Mask and Puppet Theatre, 8-10 Balcarras Avenue, Kelvindale, Glasgow, G12 0QF 0141 339 6185 www.maskandpuppet.co.uk Drop in for some Easter family fun and great refreshments.

11am - 4pm 6 April

Lapin Wants an Easter Carrot

by Le Petit Monde Scottish Mask and Puppet Theatre, 8-10 Balcarras Avenue, Kelvindale, Glasgow, G12 0QF 0141 339 6185 www.maskandpuppet.co.uk An interactive and musical show, performed in English, with simple French phrases from the puppets. 2pm 4 April Motoring Mayhem Riverside Museum, 100 Pointhouse Place, Glasgow, G3 8RS 0141 287 2720 www.glasgowlife.org.uk Discover more about motoring in the past 11am‚Äì12.30pm and 1.30‚Äì3pm From 4 April to 15 April RSPB Egg-stravaganza Kelvingrove Art Gallery And Museum, Argyle Street, Glasgow, G3 8AG 0141 276 9599 www.glasgowlife.org.uk Join us for a range of fun eggthemed activities. 1pm‚Äì4pm / Suggested donation £1 5 April Balloonology Workshop

by Alex the Magician Scottish Mask and Puppet Theatre, 8-10 Balcarras Avenue, Kelvindale, Glasgow, G12 0QF 0141 339 6185 www.maskandpuppet.co.uk A really fun balloon modelling workshop for all the family 2pm

Easter Eggstravaganza Rspb Lochwinnoch Nature Reserve, Largs Road, Lochwinnoch, PA12 4JF 01505842663 www.rspb.org.uk Fancy some egg-cellent Easter fun? Come and join us at RSPB Lochwinnoch for some egg-tastic Easter activities!

12pm-3pm / £3- £5 6 April Easter Holiday Activity Club Stepz In Time, Battlefield Studio, 176A Battlefield Road, Glasgow, G42 9JT 07796525432 www.stepzintime.co.uk Kids can head to Stepz in Time Dance School this Easter for a week full of fun, games and activities! 9.30am-4pm / £10 daily, £45 weekly From 6 April to 17 April Family Spring Holiday Programme Gallery Of Modern Art, Royal Exchange Square, Glasgow, G1 3AH 0141 287 3050 www.glasgowlife.org.uk Get creative during the spring holidays with our popular drop-in workshops 10.30am‚Äì12.30pm

From 7 April to 17 April Scotland Street’s Easter Bunny Scotland Street School Museum, www.glasgowlife.org.uk Hop along and enrol, as we need YOU to train as the Easter Bunny 11‚Äì12pm, 1‚Äì2pm & 3‚Äì4pm 8 April WWE Live The SSE Hydro, SECC, Exhibition Way, Glasgow, G3 8YW www.thessehydro.com Get your ticket to an incredible night of action packed entertaining experience when WWE Live hits The Hydro!

7.30pm / £33.60 - £78.40 9 April Easter Funday Dams To Darnley Country Park, Nitshill Road, Glasgow, G78 2SG 0141 577 4053 www.damstodarnley.org Lots of Easter fun activities.

1pm-3pm 11 April CBeebies Live! Presents Justin & Friends: Mr Tumbles Circus The SSE Hydro, SECC, Exhibition Way, Glasgow, G3 8YW www.thessehydro.com CBeebies Live! Mr Tumble’s Circus is going to be the greatest show this Easter - with lots of interactive fun!

1.30pm / £18.00 - £32.50 From 13 April to 17 April Make Your Own Mondays: The Great Bird Cake Bake Off Rspb Lochwinnoch Nature Reserve, Largs Road, Lochwinnoch, PA12 4JF 01505842663 www.rspb.org.uk Come along to RSPB Lochwinnoch Nature Reserve and make your own very ‘Bird Cake’!

11 am to 1pm or 2pm to 4pm 14 April

18 April Glasgow Vet School Rodeo School of Veterinary Medecine, 464 Bearsden Road, Glasgow, G61 1QH 0141 330 5700 www.facebook.com/ events/991415917539299/ GUVMA’s Rodeo aims to provide a day of fun and entertainment for the whole family, while supporting charitable causes! 11am-5pm / £7 (concession £3; Family 2 adult/2 kids £15; under 3’s free) 25 April The Singing Ringing Tree

by Folding Theatre Co Scottish Mask and Puppet Theatre, 8-10 Balcarras Avenue, Kelvindale, Glasgow, G12 0QF 0141 339 6185 www.maskandpuppet.co.uk A delightful folk tale. 2pm From 25 April to 26 April Wildlife Explorer Group: Rodents & Mustelids Rspb Lochwinnoch Nature Reserve, Largs Road, Lochwinnoch, PA12 4JF 01505842663 www.rspb.org.uk Come and join this fun children’s nature activity group at RSPB Lochwinnoch and learn all about rodents and mustelids! 10am12pm / £2 26 April Meet the McDougalls Eastwood Park Theatre, Eastwood Park, Rouken Glen Road, Glasgow, G46 6UG 0141 577 4956 www.eastrenfrewshire.gov.uk Meet The McDougalls is a funfilled, all-singing, all-dancing, interactive musical theatre show for all the family! 1.30pm & 4.00pm / Standard £9 Concession/child £5 Family £22 29 April

3 Pigs Paisley Arts Centre, New Street, Paisley, PA1 1JF 0141 887 1010 www.renfrewshire.gov.uk Three piggy tales are all brought to life with the amazing ingenuity and formidable storytelling of Storybox! 2pm / £4 + Booking Fee 15 - 18 April

From 6 April to 9 April Simply Magic Workshop

by Alex the Magician Scottish Mask and Puppet Theatre, 8-10 Balcarras Avenue, Kelvindale, Glasgow, G12 0QF 0141 339 6185 www.maskandpuppet.co.uk Get ready for some Easter tricks and come and have some good family fun 11am

The Tiger Who Came to Tea Theatre Royal, 0844 871 7647 www.atgtickets.com/glasgow Based on the much-loved book by Judith Kerr

All these events and MORE can be found out www.familiesglasgow.co.uk

Shrek the Musical Kings Theatre, 297-335 Bath Street, Glasgow, G2 4JN 01355 258669 www.atgtickets.com Direct from the West End and larger than life! Shrek the Musical comes to the Kings Theatre Glasgow!

March/April 2015

23

BASED ON THE BOOK

BY JUDITH KERR

WED 20 & THU 21 MAY AT THE KING’S THEATRE

FANTASTIC FUN FOR KIDS!

WED 15 & THU 16 JUL AT THE KING’S THEATRE

KING’S THEATRE 0844 871 7648 THEATRE ROYAL 0844 871 7647 www.atgtickets.com/glasgow

from

3rd April -1st November

www.edinburghzoo.org.uk/DinosaursReturn DinosaursReturn

24

March/April 2015

www.FamiliesGlasgow.co.uk

EdinburghZoo #DinosaursReturn

King’s and Theatre Royal Glasgow @Glasgowkings @kingstheatreglasgow

BKG FEES APPLY

WED 15 - SAT 18 APR AT THE THEATRE ROYAL