Families Fife Issue 16 Nov-Dec 2012

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❄ ❅ ❅ ❅ ❄ the ❅ ❄ ❅❄❅ ❅ really ❅ ❄❅ ❅ useful ❄ ❅ ❅ ❄ magazine ❅ ❅ and website ❅ ❄❄ ❅ for families in ❅ ❅ ❅ the fife region ❅ Inco ❅ s s ❄ o r rp❅ oratin❅ g Perth & Kin❅ ❅ ❅ ❄ ❅ ❄ Issue 16 • Nov/Dec 2012

www.familiesfife.co.uk

imnily w a fa t! e tick

30th Nov to 24th dec 2012 Box Office: • 01383 602302 • onfife.com

Plus

Inspirational Christmas wish list Seasonal What’s on guide

sponsored by

Pick up your copy in

Dunfermline  Glenrothes  Kirkcaldy  Perth  Kinross  Cupar  St Andrews or a village in between

Contents

Inco rporating Perth & Kinross 3 Welcome to Families Fife 4 Who, What, Where, When Local news 6 Education and Childcare Nursery updates and teepee talk 7 Birth, Baby and Beyond Maintaining wellbeing in pregnancy 8 Families Christmas wish list…

10 Where to meet and greet Santa 11 Entertainment and Shows Your guide to our top seasonal show picks 12 Clubs and Classes Updates from local providers 11 Competitions Win, win, win 11 What’s on guide to the festive season Including town centre lights Switch on dates

Contact us

Editor: Susan Kirkwood, editor@familiesfife.co.uk Tel: 01383 735938 or 07734 289 143 Design: White Creative www.whitecreativecompany.co.uk 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: January - february 2013 Booking deadline: 30 Nov. Out: 04 Jan 2013 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 16

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www.familiesfife.co.uk A Horsecross Arts production

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or this issue, I thought I’d possibly avoid talk here of the myriad festivals such as Halloween, Guy Fawkes, Diwali, Christmas… that seem to vie for our attention [and cash] at this time of year and instead share some interesting intelligence from our Reader’s survey that many of our readers were good enough to complete earlier in the year.

I was pleased and none too surprised, that a high majority, over 85% of participants claimed that our What’s on section was most useful, with 50% finding the magazine useful for Clubs and Classes information and 35% listing holiday activities as their preference (it was possible to select more than one answer).

One statistic that chimed out from the surveys was that 92% of readers said that they’d contacted an advertiser after reading the magazine which is great news all round as it must mean that we are getting something right. We also found out that 77% of people taking part have a Facebook page. So, let’s see if we can really get things moving on that front for 2013 when we’d love to see loads more new faces and posts at www.facebook.com/familiesfife Meantime, lets get on with what we do best – telling you what’s on where, in and around the region.

To see Santa or pick a panto, read on! 

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Written by Alan McHugh

Fri 7 Dec - Sat 5 Jan “Perth Panto... one of the most traditional and well-loved in the land” The Scotsman

Looking for a gentle approach to dentistry?

A warm welcome • High quality private dentistry for all the family • Friendly relaxed atmosphere • General and cosmetic dentistry • Dental hygienist available • Patient centred preventative approach

tickets: 01738 621031 www.horsecross.co.uk Horsecross Arts Ltd is a charity registered in Scotland, no SC022400

85 SOUTH STREET, ST ANDREWS, FIFE, KY16 9QW 01334 475433 • www.standrewsdentist.co.uk www.familiesfife.co.uk

Issue 16 Families Fife | 3

News: Who, What, Where, When …

The smart money mum Be a Smart Money Mum at The Jack & Jill Market

save the date Brain Tumour Research – Wear A Hat Day. Thursday 28th March 2013

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ear a hat on Thursday 28th March and help fund the fight against brain tumours. If people ask you why you’re wearing a hat, your answer ‘Its for Brain Tumour Research’ will spread awareness of the deadly disease that kills more children and adults under 40 than any other cancer.

You can get involved by organising something to raise funds. From sponsored silences to charity runs and school bake sales, educational facilities around the country are

being encouraged to raise money in any way they can. Sue Farrington-Smith, Director of Brain Tumour Research, comments: “Brain tumour research receives less than 1% of national cancer research spending in the UK yet this deadly disease kills more children and adults under 40 than any other cancer so please get involved.

So wherever you are going to be on Thursday 28th March 2013, don a headpiece and pay for the privilege whether you’re at school, work or on holiday. Save the date!  Register your interest today by emailing sarah@braintumourresearch.org

Registered charity:1093411

WEAR A HAT DAY Thursday 28 th March

2013

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Make this Christmas a truly memorable one by sending a child you know a magical Letter from Santa. For a suggested donation of £5 to the NSPCC, your child will receive a fun, colourful and personalised letter from the man himself.

Every £5 raised

by Letter from Santa will help ChildLine be there whenever a child seeks help either online or by phone.

And every £25 raised will enable a trained practitioner to deliver one hour of support through the NSPCC’s helpline for adults who are concerned about a child.

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The Jack & Jill Market is Scotland’s quality, nearly-new baby and children’s market where Smart Mums Sell and Save

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ith the costs of raising children rising and recent research suggesting that you have at least £500 locked up in useable but unused items in your cupboards, be a Smart Money Mum and head to The Jack & Jill Market when your children have grown out of their clothes, or grown bored of their toys, books, and equipment. Book a stall to sell and recycle, and keep 100% of what you make on the day! To date, 80% of mums selling at The Jack & Jill Market have made £100-£350, with a number of top selling mums making over £500.

Or turn up on market day and snap up super savings on quality nearly-new clothes, cots, toys, bouncers, buggies, bikes, nursery furniture, maternity gear and all the rest that comes with raising children from 0-9 years. Why pay more when you can pay less – now that’s being smart! 

Markets across Scotland.

Find your local market at www.jackandjillmarket.co.uk

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REGISTER NOW | Tel: 01296 733011

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Get your key to the castle Explore scotland’s castle trail – the only one in the uk!

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scape to Aberdeen City and Shire and uncover an area brimming with surprising things to see and do. From fantastic museums and art galleries to beautiful parks and gardens, wonderful coves and beaches, and awe-inspiring wildlife boat trips, this area is packed with attractions for all the family.

What’s more, this area is also home to one of Scotland’s most unique visitor experiences – Scotland’s Castle Trail. With 300 castles, that’s more per acre in Aberdeen City and Shire than anywhere else in the UK; you and your family can follow this intriguing Trail and take in 17 of the region’s finest castles.

With everything from striking cliff-top ruins to grand fortresses and Royal residences – you’ll simply be spoiled for choice!

WIN a luxury family Castle stay on Scotland’s only Castle Trail Be King or Queen of your very own Castle estate for the weekend, as VisitScotland and Families invite you and your family to retreat to Scotland’s only Castle Trail and experience a stay to remember.

You will stay for two nights, courtesy of National Trust for Scotland in the magnificent grounds of Crathes Castle. Widely regarded as one of the most beautiful and best preserved in Scotland, this fairytale castle is a favourite for families and has a graceful tower with beautiful walled gardens and ancient yew hedges.

And that’s not all, Historic Scotland invite you to savour a delicious afternoon tea and FREE entry to the house and wonderful exhibitions at Duff House – a splendid

Remaking the most of scrap

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emake Scotland is delighted to announce the move to new premises at the Crieff Visitor Centre.

Remake has grown from a mobile workshop service to leasing the centrally located unit with the intention of developing a Community Scrapstore. Scrapstores help divert potential landfill while providing high quality arts and crafts supplies for use by community groups, schools and individual members.

Examples of scrap supplies include string, card, wallpaper, textiles, cork, wool, cardboard tubes and all kinds of manufactured plastic.

And remember Remake accepts donations of clean Christmas waste (especially cards) for reuse projects next year.

Refurbishment is taking place over the winter months and if anyone would like to get involved in the project, please contact Fiona on 0750 557 6361. Volunteer jobs vary from the practical hands-on (joinery, PAT testing) to sorting and administration.

Donations of paint and pallet racking would also be very gratefully received.

Adventure Golf Island events • Friday 16th – Sunday 18th November:

Anyone quoting “Families Fife” will receive a free slush puppy or chocolate bar. • Friday 14th – Sunday 16th December: Anyone quoting “Families Fife” will be entered in to a raffle to win restaurant vouchers to be used within the leisure park. • Friday 21st – Monday 24th December: Anyone wearing a Christmas themed outfit and quoting “Families Fife” will get to play two rounds of ‘Adventure Golf’ for the price of one! 

www.familiesfife.co.uk

Remake Scotland is a creative reuse project, aiming to divert potential landfill by finding new uses for reclaimed, discarded and found objects and promoting our craft, science and construction workshops. Remake Scotland is a social enterprise encouraging children and adults aged from 5 to 85 to make good stuff from old stuff while learning to use tools with confidence.  Remake Scotland is now located at Unit 2, Crieff Visitor Centre, Muthill Road, Crieff PH7 4HQ but please email in advance info@ remakescotland.co.uk

Georgian House in Banff regarded as one of the finest in Britain; FREE entry to Tolquhon Castle – the most picturesque of the castles in the Grampian countryside and noted for its highly ornamented gatehouse; and FREE entry to Huntly Castle – remarkable for its magnificent architecture, it served as a baronial residence for over five centuries.

What are you waiting for? Enter now at: visitscotland.com/explorefamilies Terms and Conditions: No purchase necessary. Draw closes 30.11.12. Open to all UK, CI, IoM and RoI residents except employees and their immediate families of VisitScotland, Families, National Trust for Scotland, Historic Scotland, their agents or anyone professionally connected with the promotion. For full Terms and Conditions, go to; visitscotland.com/explorefamilies

Rugby tots lead coach

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e are currently looking for bright, enthusiastic, highly motivated and energetic individuals to join our growing network of coaches to work part time hours during term time. Experience of working with young children and a passion for rugby are desirable. An extremely outgoing personality who can keep children entertained is essential. As a Lead Coach it would be a distinct advantage to hold an RFU Level 1 coaching certificate.

Excellent rates of pay.

For questions and to apply, please contact Isabella at Isabella@rugbytots.co.uk.

Is your next local Jack & Jill Market on this weekend? www.jackandjillm arket.co.uk Scotland’s Quality Nearly-New Baby & Children’s Market

Issue 16 Families Fife | 5

Education & childcare Constructing the Curriculum at Building Blocks Nursery

Teepee play is the name of the day

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run purpose built nursery. There is no better place to start your child’s social and educational path. With an early opening from 7am, parents can rest assured their children are in a safe, secure and friendly environment.

Catering for children from 0 to 5 years Building Blocks guarantees that through the innovative learning programmes each child goes home happy, fulfilled and with the valuable skills needed to give them the best possible start in life! 

eople walking through Falkland Estate during the last few months couldn’t have failed to notice the two large teepees near the main entrance to the estate. The teepees were erected temporarily to support an outdoor play project managed by Fife Child Care & Early Years Services. The project which ran over the summer holidays was enjoyed by children from Dunfermline, Cowdenbeath, Kirkcaldy, Glenrothes and Leven. Due to the success of the project further outdoor play services are being developed.

Fife Council’s Community Learning and Development team and the Falkland Centre for Stewardship are now providing opportunities for a group of young people to work alongside the forestry team to develop a new permanent site in the estate. The plan is to make space for the teepees, build a wooden shelter, install composting toilets and build seating around a campfire. 

Call now to speak to Laura at Building Blocks to arrange a visit 01383 419319. www.bbnursery.co.uk

For further information about our services please contact Linsey Sanders 01592 583146 or email linsey.sanders@fife.gov.uk

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t Building Blocks Childcare Nursery in Rosyth children are experiencing first hand what it is like to be part of history in the making. Their innovative learning programmes have recently led to a visit from FCBC (Forth Crossing Bridge Constructors) a Joint Venture company which has been awarded the contract to design and build the Forth Replacement Crossing Principal Contract, which comprises the estuarial crossing and connecting roads to the north and south.

Laura Taylor, Owner & Manager at Building Blocks approached FCBC who very kindly sent along Sally Chambers to talk to the children about the new Forth Bridge, its construction and safety on the site.

The children were clearly interested in the amount of activity on the Forth and close by where the FCBC is based.

Questions flowed and where there is willingness to learn there is always an expert to teach.

Sally brought along various articles of safety clothing that all workers on the construction of the bridge have to wear. The children then identified how they were able to keep themselves safe when in the car, riding their bikes, crossing the road and walking in the dark.

The exercise proved invaluable to the children’s learning experience with additional activities taking place to embed the learning including their own mini models of the Forth Road Bridge, drawings and paintings. We know children learn best through play. At Building Blocks they take that to the next level with their innovative learning programmes. The children are involved from beginning to end and thanks to the people at FCBC their learning came alive!

Building Blocks Childcare is a family

Nursery News

Get Childcare Covered

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To arrange a visit call: 01383 741900

To find out more contact Ruth Barbour on 07833 134004 or email footsteps. recruitment@gmail.com

auriston Nursery, Dunfermline are hosting an Autumn fayre on Saturday 3rd November between 10am-12pm. Various stalls inside the nursery and across the way at the St.Andrews Erskine Church.

Everyone welcome. Also, in the run up to Christmas, children will become entrepreneurs designing their own Christmas items to sell to their families. Pre-school children will soon be practising Christmas songs and roles for their annual nativity show for parents. 

ave you ever wondered how and where to find qualified nursery staff, nannies or even a babysitter? The answer is to use a reputable childcare agency to ensure complete peace of mind that you will be matched with a safe and fully vetted childcarer to meet your needs. Footsteps Childcare agency introduces qualified staff to local nurseries in the areas of Perth, Kinross and Fife as well as Clackmannan. They can do this on a supply basis, short or longterm and placements can be adhoc to cover sickness or emergencies. 

Whether you’re a nursery with short term staffing problems, parents needing a full or part-time nanny, a wedding party requiring help with childcare on the big day or a time pressed couple in need of a night out, using a reputable childcare agency will give you peace of mind. We provide fully vetted childcare professionals for every situation.

Contact Ruth Barbour on 07833 134 004 or email: footsteps.recruitment@gmail.com

6 | Families Fife Issue 16

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Birth, baby and beyond Botanical bubbles

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elebrity hair colourist and Prince’s Trust Ambassador, Daniel Galvin Jr, has teamed up with the Prince’s Trust in creating Dubble Trubble, a collection of five pH balanced Hair & Body washes and a Detangling mist, all utilising organic botanical extracts. The sales of the products will

help raise money for The Prince’s Trust, with Daniel donating a total of £25,000 of the proceeds to the youth charity in the first 12 months. Products smell lovely and are free of any parabens, SLS, mineral oils or animal ingredients.  Available from Morrisons. Suitable for children 3 – 12 years.

RRP £2.50 200ml

Let’s Pretend – making party organising child’s play…

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t this very busy time of year give yourself one less thing to worry about by letting us take the stress out of organising your child’s party. Simply choose from our variety of brilliant value for money packages.Then book a fantastic fun filled event for your child. We look forward to meeting you.

For extra value just when you need it, we are offering a - free birthday child place on all parties booked before 31/01/12. Simply quote promotional code FA1012 when booking. 

Visit us at www.lets-pretend.co.uk to see our party themes or contact us on 07977 203 440

Better beginnings with the Synergy Centre Maintain wellbeing in your Winter pregnancy

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o, its winter time again, with the cold, dark evenings that send us all into hibernation.

It’s so easy to stay in, eat comforting food and cosy up in front of the telly, waiting for Christmas. These days you can even shop while you sit there, thanks to the Internet.

This is especially tempting if you are pregnant and already feeling tired and achey. After a day of work and household duties, why would you want to do anything but sit down in the evenings?

Benefits of getting off the settee – ÊÊ Baby’s position – Slouching on the sofa doesn’t help the baby’s position. The better positioned the baby, usually means a less complicated birth.

To encourage this, mum needs to be sitting up and leaning forward slightly. This is a real concern for many women in the later stages, so it is worth thinking about earlier on too. ÊÊ Keeping active maintains your energy, stamina and fitness. Giving birth is generally more of a marathon than a sprint, and you wouldn’t dream of entering a marathon

without some level of training.

While winter sports such as snowboarding might be off the agenda, walking, swimming, aqua classes and yoga can all be beneficial. ÊÊ Mixing with other pregnant women in a class along with supportive teachers and therapists can allow you to share experiences and voice any concerns. ÊÊ Reduce aches and tension.

Stretching in a yoga class or during exercise, as well as seeing a bodywork professional, can all help with areas of tightness and pain. Women’s bodies are designed to be pregnant, but any misalignment or area of tightness can be exacerbated during pregnancy, resulting in the sore hips, back and sciatica symptoms so many women experience.

So, get off that sofa, and come and see the friendly, supportive therapists at Synergy. You can meet other mums and learn useful techniques in a yoga class, relax in a shiatsu, massage or reiki session, ease aches and pains with a massage, or reduce fluid retention with a lymphatic drainage treatment.  Jennifer Syme specialises in pregnancy massage and remedial massage at the synergy centre. See www.jstherapies.co.uk

Specialist Care for Pregnancy

Complementary Therapies Available

Lauriston Nursery 165 Robertson Road Dunfermline Fife KY12 0BL

Tel: 01383 741900 | www.lauristonnursery.com www.familiesfife.co.uk

Pre & Post Natally

See the mag on your smart phone

Yoga Reiki Shiatsu Massage Birth Partner Workshops Manual Lymphatic Drainage Reflexology

Gift Vouchers Available Synergy Natural Pregnancy Services

01592 631672 www.synergycentre.co.uk Issue 16 Families Fife | 7

Season’s greetings

Christmas wish list

by Pascale Gravell

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Boys and girls wish for…

e’ve sifted through masses of press releases and here it is: our own selection of toys for Christmas 2012. This year we’ve chosen toys we’d buy ourselves, either because they offer great play value, develop creativity or physical play or because they are made of reusable material.

With a recession on, choosing toys that will last long enough to be handed down is a wise move too. Most toys can be ordered from your local toyshops, who always provide great advice too if you are not sure about what to buy. Enjoy.

Kiddimoto

Award winning Kiddimoto help children develop their skills of balance and coordination and make a seamless transition to a pedal bike without the use of stabilisers.

Wide variety of designs and can be personalised! For 2-6yrs.

Tractor Ted

Available from www.kiddimoto.co.uk £59.99

Girls wish for….

Doodle Daysack

Comes complete with a special Doodle Pad that can be used for drawing, painting or even playing games. Once your child has finished their masterpiece, the pad can be displayed proudly in the daysack’s clear, front pocket.

Babies wish for…

Toasty tootsies

Tootsie and Fudge have just received delivery of Melton bootees which are jazzy enough to complete any outfit. These fabulous bootees have a cosy fleece lining and drawstring that will not only keep tootsies toasty but will keep them on! There is a choice of 15 colours, sizes 0-3 months, 3-6 months, 6-12 months and 1-2 years.

Prices start at £6.50 a pair. See collection at www.tootsieandfudge.com/footwear For a chance to win a pair, in the size and colour of your choice, simply LIKE their facebook page at www.facebook.com/TootsieandFudge and post your answer to enter the toastie tootsies prize draw!

With all these farms locally, I imagine that Tractor Ted items would appeal to lots of younger children. There’s a bed with a steering wheel - if you really want to splash out or a duvet set if you don’t. There are lots of other colourful items such as pencil tins, books, DVDs toys and gifts. There are now more than 15 Tractor Ted DVDs featuring big machines, how our food is made, the seasons and looking after animals. Great for rural children. There is also a fan club.

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Available from www.tractorted.co.uk

www.littlelife.co.uk for stockists. Age: 4+ RRP: £19.99

BigJigs Village Shop

This brightly coloured shop has a bright yellow counter and shelves that have been decorated with pictures of the kind of products you would expect to see in a village store. It also comes with a clock on the sign so you can display opening hours! Educational yet fun, this is a permanent favourite with children.

From WoodenToyShop.co.uk Age 3+ price £97.95

Makedo – for those who enjoy the Christmas packaging!

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very parent knows that feeling, when you’ve spent a fortune on the latest high-tech toy only to find your children much more engrossed playing with the packaging.

Makedo’s brilliant idea is to help those kids make better use of the

Toddlers wish for…

Alphabet Zoo ABC House Blocks

Play, stack, tower and build. Toddlers will develop their motor skills while creating buildings complete with roofs, windows and doors, before turning the pieces upside down to nest within one another. Made of high quality wood and non-toxic paint.

Suitable for age 12 mths + RRP £28.00 from www.bibsandstuff.com

packaging! It supplies a Safe-saw for cutting and punching through materials safely, Re-clips and Lock-hinges for connecting – the child’s creativity and instinct for building things from boxes, cardboard boxes and wrappings then takes

over from there. Check out the website for videos and photos of inspiring creations made by people from around the world.

Winner of three of the most prestigious International Design Awards.

From £7.99 SRP from www.marbeltoys.co.uk

The Ceramic Experience Dunfermline

l Ceramic l Free

Painting Studio

Soft Play

l Cafe

with snacks

l Homebaking l Easy

Parking & Access

The Ceramic Experience 17b Elgin St. Ind. Estate Dunfermline, KY12 7SN

10am – 5pm theceramicexperience.com Open 7 days a week 01383 840640 8 | Families Fife Issue 16

X Pendants X Charms X X Cufflinks X Keyrings X Capture your child’s fingerprint in fine silver. Hand and foot prints, Mini Masters & Love Letters.

Find me on face book Call for more details & to book

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

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ÊBigJigs Ê Village Shop

From www.sciencemuseumshop.co.uk

Keyhole garden

A keyhole garden allows an African family to grow 3 meals a day. The design, which looks like a keyhole from above, incorporates a central basket where composted waste is put and water from the kitchen is poured. Just £12 will provide training in how to build a Keyhole Garden for one family. www.sendacow.org.uk

Mum wishes for…

A handmade keepsake from Smallprint Abi Green from Smallprint handcrafts an exquisite selection of bespoke jewellery,

www.familiesfife.co.uk

teach your baby to swim!

IONAL AT

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Experiment with green energy using solar cells to build a mini robot, cooling fan and more, from the Science Museum. Ages 8+ £17.

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guaranteed to inject some festive cheer into your present buying. Treat someone special to a little piece of magic at Christmas with a unique piece of Smallprint silver keepsake jewellery.

With a range that includes pendants, charms, cufflinks and keyrings, plus a brand new range of birth tags and ingots, you will find something for all the family! Smallprint fingerprint jewellery is unique and very special, each piece has actually been touched by your child or loved one (Abi doesn’t use moulds or casts).

As well as capturing your child’s unique fingerprint in fine silver, Abi from Smallprint, can also turn your Santa’s little helpers cute

WINNE

Older children wish for…

Once they’ve passed the baby and toddler stage, where the size of the box and the colour of the paper is more important than what’s inside, it’s worth looking for thoughtful, personal presents. Even quite young people do think about the world and their place in it. Such children may like one of these gifts, a gift that gives back…

More venues coming soon to the Fife area

fun, innovative classes creating life-saving confidence from birth

01786 430314 waterbabies.co.uk

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drawings and handwriting into precious silver keepsakes for you to cherish forever.

Christmas is Abi's busiest time so get your orders in early to avoid disappointment.

She covers the area from Edinburgh through Fife and up to Perth. You can find her at various venues including Active Kids in Stanley, The Baby Stork Company in Ocean Terminal and The Play Planet in Dalgety Bay. For a full list of venues and dates log onto facebook page www.facebook.com/ SmallprintEdinburghFifePerthKinross or visit www.smallprint.com/abigailgreen. Parties in your own home also available – great idea for a friends get together at this time of year or make an appointment at Abi’s home studio.

Handmade gifts are a perennial favourite.

Make time now and you’ll reap the benefits come Christmas day when you are smug in the knowledge that you have not only given a gift but also made a memory.

Call 077477 07527 or e-mail abig@smallp.co.uk to book

Mums to be wish for…

Treatments make a lovely gift for a mum to be. See Synergy ad on page 7.

3yoga3 stretch & relax 3 pregnancy & birth baby & postnatal general mixed ability

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Dunfermine, Inverkeithing S. Queensferrry & Edinburgh Susannah Dean IYT, BWY, YogaBirth, IAIM 01383 413121

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www.theyoga.co.uk

Issue 16 Families Fife | 9

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What better for dad than a contemporary take on a Scottish classic? Transform your Christmas table with this funky deer trophy to sit above the carver’s chair. It can be hung with natural finish or painted to match your décor. Made from precision lasercut plywood. Simple slot together assembly - no tools required. Measures: H56cm x W38cm x D29cm Price: £28. www. urbancuckoo.co.uk

Grandparents wish for…

Ceramic experience gift

The Ceramic Experience in Dunfermline has loads to offer creative gift hunters this year.

Choose from plain baubles which can be personalised with baby hand or footprints or can be painted in seasonal style by slightly older children. Young children will love the penguins, Santas and reindeers which are genuinely stylish and can easily be painted by fledgling artists. Older ones will love the embossed Santa or reindeer plates and bowls – ideal for leaving out Santa’s snack and Rudolph’s reward. A thoughtful gift for mum or grandma may be a tree shaped plate or the lovely new votive candle holders which can be imaginatively decorated in Christmas designs and colours.

Remember to allow 48 hours for the foodsafe finish which needs to be kiln baked but which leaves a lovely shine. For gifts to go, and day trippers, acrylics can be used to allow items to be taken away the same day.  The Ceramic Experience, 17b Elgin Street.

Ind Estate, Dunfermline, KY12 7SN www. ceramicexperience.com Tel: 01383 840640

Linsey’s Shoe Box Expertly fitted children’s shoes & pre-walkers Stockists of Startrite, Geox, Superfit,Ricosta, Richter & Petasil.

From size 2 (18) to size 8 (42)

160 South Street St Andrews KY16 9EG

01334 479493 10 | Families Fife Issue 16

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Season’s greetings Dad wishes for…

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Eating and greeting with Santa Hamleys ‘I Met Father Christmas at Hamleys’

St Enoch, Glasgow. Saturday 1 - Monday 24 December Includes: Breakfast, Brunch, Lunch or Tea. Meet and greet with Father Christmas & his Elves. Receive a Hamleys gift, Activities & entertainment, Available: Monday – Friday: Pre-school Breakfast & Tea, Saturday & Sunday: Breakfast, Brunch, Lunch & Tea Each session is 1 hour Pre-school Breakfast: 10.30 – 11.30am (suitable for 2yrs-5yrs) Tea: 4.30 – 5.30pm & 6.30 – 7.30pm, Breakfast & Brunch on Saturday & Sunday: 9.30-10.30am & 11.30 – 12.30pm, Lunch and Tea on Saturday & Sunday: 2 – 3pm & 4 – 5pm. Book online and see full terms and conditions at http://www.hamleys.com/ Imetfatherchristmas £25 per child. Bookings must be made and paid for in advance.

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Festive Fayre at Brewers Fayre

Brewers Fayre in Dunfermline have started taking bookings for the festive season.

The Festive Feast menu will be available from 20th November to the end of December (excluding Christmas Day) and is priced from £8.99 per adult and £4.99 for children or the Festive Celebration menu from £13.99 and £4.99 for kids. For families who don’t wish to spend Christmas Day cooking, they offer a 3-course Christmas day meal for £42.99 per adult and £14.99 per child with under 5s eating FREE with a paying adult. They also promise families attending their Hogmanay Party an excellent night with the Fun Factory open till 11.45pm, providing supervised soft play facilities and a disco. Sit and enjoy a family meal, then let the children run off steam.

There will also be a piper at the bells for mum and dad’s benefit and the kitchen will continue to offer the seasonal menus alongside the regular menu.

Breakfast with Brewster Santa dates. Seven dates in total on 2/9/15/16/ 22/23/24 at 10am – 11.45am. You and up to 2 children can enjoy an all you can eat and drink buffet breakfast for £8.25. Pay an additional £2 per child for entry to the Fun Factory soft play and to meet Santa Brewster.

Each child will receive a small gift. Extremely popular. Bookings only. Don’t forget your camera. Tel: 01383 840070.

Breakfast and Supper with Santa

From Saturday 1st December Santa will be ho-ho-hosting breakfast and suppers in our restaurants and he’ll even be taking part in Christmas party games – what a guy! £9.95 per child. For full details please contact Dobbies Garden World Dunfermline on 01383 842757 or visit our website www.dobbies.com

Santa’s Christmas Brunch Party Scone Palace Perth

Saturday 1st, Sunday 2nd, Saturday 8th, Sunday 9th December Santa will pay a special visit with a sack full of presents to deliver – one for every child.

Storytelling, puppets and food provided.

Tickets £10.00, complimentary coffee for adults. 10.30am www.scone-palace.co.uk Booking essential 01738 552300

Santa Party at Cluny Kids

Sunday 9th and 16th December Join the Elves around the log fire for party games, carol singing, a Christmas bite and a visit to Santa’s Grotto between 3pm & 6pm £6.50. 01592 720374

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Mercat Reindeer Parade Kirkcaldy

Sunday 18th November starts at 12.00noon

Santa’s Grotto

Kingdom Centre Glenrothes Grotto Open For Business – 22nd Nov (will be open Thur, Fri, Sat & Sun) and open all week on the week before Christmas.

St John’s Shopping Centre Santa’s Grotto Saturday 24th November onwards Santa and his elves in their Grotto every Saturday from 11am - 5pm and Sunday from 12pm – 5pm. Santa would also love boys and girls to visit him every day from 17th December until 24th December to give him their Christmas wishes. Come and visit Santa in his Greenland grotto in St John’s Shopping Centre. Beat the queues and book your visit to Santa online at www. stjshopping.co.uk/grotto

Santa Arrival

(11am) Dobbies Garden World, Dunfermline Sunday 25th November Come along for a day of family fun and festive entertainment galore as we welcome the big man in red as he takes up residence in his fabulously festive grotto. Grotto open till 24th December. Tickets £5 and can be booked in advance from the customer service desk. 

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Entertainment and Shows Christmas Carol

The Old Kirk, Kirkcaldy

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photograph: Alan Peebles

his December, the National Theatre of Scotland has a real treat in store for those able to get to Kirkcaldy. In an intimate and specially crafted performance space at The Old Kirk, they will bring you Graham McLaren’s exciting adaptation of Dicken’s classic A Christmas Carol. The first time ever that the National Theatre has put on a Christmas show, it promises to bring the Christmas fable to life for contemporary audiences with sinister life-size puppets and live music, played out in an unique setting.

This spooky and original reimagining is recommended for everyone aged 8+ and is highly acclaimed by the Telegraph which described the performance as “one of the classiest pieces of theatre to have been staged in Scotland, not only in the winter season, but at any time of year”.  Runs: from Friday 7 December to Saturday 30 December at 7.30pm Venue: The Old Kirk, Kirk Wynd, Kirkcaldy, KY11EH Booking: 01592 611101/www.onfife.com.

In person from any ON at Fife theatre box office. Matinees at 13.30 or 14.30 check with venue. Tickets are £14 or £11 concessions. Autism friendly performance on Sunday 16th December at 2.30. BSL interpreted on 23rd December at 2.30pm

Mother Goose

Hansel & Gretel Carnegie Hall, Dunfermline

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ansel & Gretel opens at Carnegie Hall on Friday 30th November and promises an original and hilarious twist on the classic Brothers Grimm fairytale. Hansel and Gretel are set to be frightened by Whilimena Ubeltater – a very wicked witch, who also happens to play their mother Johanna Kugelschrieber. Paul Harper Swan plays the children’s father, poor woodcarver Johannes Kugelschreiber, and the witch’s dim-witted and rather windy servant ‘Herman Pumpsallotten’. Thus the scene is set for magical storytelling, with a stunning stage set and original live music from BAFTA award-winning Karen McIvor. Local children make up the chorus of Allsorts and Lollipops and also present is a 5ft gingerbread man not to mention a unicorn…

Join in the fun and excitement – shout, laugh and sing along with this fabulous fun-filled festive treat – you might even catch a sweetie! And even if you don’t sponsors Robert Wiseman Dairies promise free flavoured milk for all audience members.

During the festive season, Carnegie Hall’s foyer will be transformed into a magical forest and don’t’ forget to look for your free gingerbread when booking tickets at the Box Office. 

From Friday 30th November - Monday 24th December. Standard ticket price £12 (£9.50) Family tickets £37 Box Office: 01383 602302 Carnegie Hall, East Port, Dunfermline, KY12 7JA www.onfife.com

www.familiesfife.co.uk

Perth Theatre

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he panto with the Eggs-Factor brings you heroes and villains, booing and cheering, slapstick, silliness and singalong fun aplenty. When Fairy Fortune casts a spell that makes Mother Goose’s pet goose Priscilla lay golden eggs, the impoverished circus owner thinks all of her Christmases have come at once! But with arch enemy Diavolo hatching an evil plan, her daughter Ginny’s lost smile, the lovestruck Carlo the Clown, a troupe of performers who are not all they’re cracked up to be and her ‘boady like a sackful of spanners’, her problems are just beginning… 

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Sleeping beauty

Adam Smith Theatre, Kirkcaldy

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his show features everything you know and love from the Adam Smith team - joy, comedy, dance, laughter and of course loads of audience participation.

The story begins in the kingdom of Harmonia with King Hubert and his baby daughter, who is under threat from his sister, the evil Countess Donna La Trix, With a little help from Fifi the really forgetful fairy, the King sends his daughter to safety in Paris until she is eighteen and can become Queen. But Fifi can’t quite remember where she left her! Eighteen years later, the King travels to Paris with Fifi to find his daughter and bring her home to Harmonia to rule. But Donna La Trix a nd and her dimwit son The Count Victor De Mysterieux have similar plans of a more dastardly nature.

On the streets of Paris, a lowly waitress called Amelie is serving tables in a nightclub run by Lou Lou McCludgie, the ever popular Billy Mack, from Upper Largo, alongside waiter Hugo who is hopelessly in love with Amelie. Can Fifi and Hugo help save Amelie from the evil Countess and her curse? Can a grotesque hunchback awaken the Princess from her 100 year slumber with a kiss? Only time will tell whether they can-can! 

From Fri 7 December – Sat 5 January.

From Friday 7th December 2012 Off-peak peak adult £17 / £20 Saturday 12th January 2013. Tickets: concessions £15 /£18 children £12 /£13 £14.00, children and concessions family ticket (max 2 adults) £52 £60 £11.00. Box Office – 01592 583302 or (includes booking fee) online at onfife.com Ad 118 X 70mm_Layout 1 22/10/2012 09:55 Page 1

Friday 7 December 2012 to Saturday 12 January 2013 Starring

Billy Mack As

Dame Lou Lou

Box Office: 01592 583302

www.onfife.com Bennochy Road Kirkcaldy KY1 1ET

Issue 16 Families Fife | 11

Clubs and Classes Clubs and Classes news One family, two languages

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ringing up a child with two languages is not the cheapest parenting option. There’s no easy access to foreign books or DVDs. Holidays are always a trip back to the other “home” to see family and friends and brush up on kiddy vocabulary.

Plane tickets are full price from two and once school starts there’s no avoiding peak season prices. Then there’s the hidden costs: Puce informed me recently that she’ll be getting twice as much money when her first tooth falls out. News to me. “Oh yes,” she said, “because there’ll be the coin from the tooth fairy here and one from the French mouse” (who’s in charge of lost teeth for French children). I couldn’t help but smile. Maybe that’s why they’re called “milk teeth”.

Jenny Clark, Strictly Speaking: One Family, Two Languages www.culturefrog.blogspot.co.uk info@culturefrog.com

Turtle Tots NEW for Nov we have Saturday morning classes starting at Cowdenbeath Leisure Centre 9am toddlers and 9.30am babies). We also still have spaces on the following classes: ÊTuesdays Ê 1630 (babies) 1700 (toddlers) Lochgelly High School ÊFriday’s Ê 1545 (babies) 1615 (toddlers) Cowdenbeath Leisure Centre ÊSundays Ê 2pm toddlers Lochgelly High School Mobile: 07753807188 Email: gill.currie@ turtletots.com Website: www.turtletots.com

Shuffledance Are pleased to announce that they have a new teacher. This has opened new spaces in all 4 of their Saturday morning classes- Street Dance for P1-3 and P4-7, and Creative classes for 2-5 years as they like our teacher/child ratio in class to be low.

Also February sets the date for the Shuffledance first ever show so this is the last chance for children who join the classes to be part of it. All classes will be part of the show and there is much excitement about it already so what are you waiting for? Be a part of it.

Contact Gillian Syme EveryBodyDance Group on 07800 560290 or visit www.everybodydancegroup.co.uk

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TurTle ToTs specialisT BaBy and Toddler swimming lessons now availaBle ThroughouT FiFe New classes starting in Dunfermline, Cowdenbeath and Lochgelly in August 2012. Weekend classes available. Aqua natal yoga also available.

Contact Gill Currie on 07753807188 or gill.currie@turtletots.com to book or find out more.

Doodle and Splat Doodle and Splat messy play for pre-schoolers are now starting to take bookings for their Christmas themed parties for any toddler/playgroups.

Available on Tuesday 4th, Wednesday 5th December and Monday 10th to Friday 14th December. At these sessions they can offer lots of festive fun with our trays of snow (shaving foam), festive water, Christmas rubbing plates & stencils, Christmas play doh & cutters, Christmas colouring pictures. Alongside there will be a selection of crafts available including decorating ceramic Christmas baubles, 3D stars & snowflakes and 3D angel decorations for all the kiddies to take home.

For more information on the Christmas parties or to book a place, please get in touch soon as they have limited availability! doodle@doodleandsplat.co.uk, 07942825114 or www.doodleandsplat.co.uk

La Jolie Ronde French classes for children in Glenrothes. Bonjour la France offers fun, educational French classes to children aged between 3 and 11 years. Established in 1983 and voted BEST NATIONAL ACTIVITY FOR 5-12 YRS - WHAT’S ON 4 JUNIOR AWARDS 2011, La Jolie Ronde gives the child the opportunity to develop an enthusiasm for languages through unique, recognised language programmes for nursery & primary aged children. The course is highly structured with a precise list of vocabulary and phrases with which a pupil is expected to be familiar by the end of each stage of learning.

Rugbytots Now in Perth! Rugbytots is a highly energetic play programme for boys and girls aged 2-7 years that has run in locations in Scotland for four years and now Perth. The team is headed up by Carl McWilliam, who was formerly part of the New Zealand 7s team and played in the Scottish Premier league for Watsonians.

The sessions are designed to increase children’s basic motor skills such as balance, agility, and hand/eye coordination in a fun and energetic environment at the same time as encouraging social skills such as sharing, team work and taking turns. The classes are

For full class listings please check online at www.familiesfife. co.uk as we have limited space to list full programmes here

12 | Families Fife Issue 16

www.familiesfife.co.uk

Competitions

structured to teach and develop ball related skills that could be utilised in many sports.

Classes run on Sunday mornings at North Muirton Community Hall and can be booked on our website at www.rugbytots.co.uk Or e-mail Isabella@rugbytots.co.uk

Water Babies Teaching water confidence and safety techniques from birth, the uniquely structured Water Babies programme is designed to make the most of babies’ natural affinity with water.

Swimming from birth is excellent for babies’ development, providing a complete physical workout which in turn aids the development of the brain. What’s more, regular swimming can enhance their awareness and improve eating and sleeping patterns – a definite bonus!

With a clear emphasis on having fun, lessons are generally very sociable occasions – and excellent for strengthening the bond between carer and baby.  Established in 2002, Water Babies classes run nationwide with local classes in Fife, currently in Crossford, Cardenden, Leven and St Andrews. For more information call Wendy on 01786 430314, email makeasplash@waterbabies.co.uk or visit www.waterbabies.co.uk

Shuffle Dance part of ‘EveryBodyDance Group’

u creative dance u street dance u jazz u zumbatomic u u u

From £4 per class, Payable in blocks From 2 years to adults

New classes in Dunfermline Burntisland Dalgety Bay & Rosyth gillian@everybodydancegroup.co.uk

07800 560290 www.everybodydancegroup.co.uk

for little feet that love to dance! www.familiesfife.co.uk

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WIN Panto tickets!

We have tickets for a lucky family to see Hansel and Gretel at the Carnegie Hall this December. Just answer the following question: Q.Who do Hansel and Gretel meet in the forest?

To enter, simply login to www. familiesfife.co.uk/offers to complete an online entry form.

Good luck!

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Win a £200 Shopping Spree in time for Christmas

New clothes make any occasion extra special. The Polarn O. Pyret Christmas collection for newborn to age 12 years is now in stores and online. As always, the clothes are geared towards children not just looking good, but feeling comfortable too.

Cosy cotton PJ’s that will last until next Christmas Eve, a new party dress that can handle spills, or an extra cute outfit for Christmas Day. Enjoy the occasion PO.P style whatever you are planning for the holidays.

FREE gift wrapping is always available at Polarn O. Pyret stores.

For your chances to win enter your details at www.polarnopyret.co.uk/win by 10th of December. Terms and conditions apply. Winner will be notified via email on 11th December.

Nearest Stores: www.polarnopyret. co.ukHouse of Fraser Glasgow, Jenners Edinburgh.

Voucher available online at www.familiesfife/ offers to get 15% off for Families readers.

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WIN

Best baby names book

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e all want to give our babies a ‘good’ name as they’ll keep it, for the rest of their lives. The book lists 8,000 traditional and modern names and their meanings and includes inspiration lists from the worlds of screen and stage, literature, music and sporting achievement. All of the information should help you come up with a shortlist of names before you make the final decision about what to name your newborn. So far this year, Harry and Amelia are topping the baby name charts, with Tommy and Willow on the rise and Ben and Caitlin falling in popularity. Best Baby Names 2013 author Siobhan Thomas thinks we can probably expect parents to look to the UK’s successful Olympic athletes for inspiration next year, so expect to see a lot more Bradleys and Jessicas at your local playgroup or nursery in the next couple of years. 

Best Baby Names for 2013 by Siobhan Thomas is published on 22 November, £6.99 paperback, and is available from Amazon or from High Street book shops.

We have copies of this title to give away to 2 lucky readers. Simply logon to familiesfife.co.uk/offers and tell us this year’s most popular boys name.

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for

Untill Dec 2012

Peter’s Railway books Christopher Vine has published four more fantastic paperback books in the Peter’s Railway series. For any child that just can’t get enough of train stories these books would make a perfect gift this Christmas. Go to www.petersrailway.com for more details. Families magazine readers will get a free Peter’s Railway book with every book purchased via the Peter’s Railway website, Simply go to www. petersrailway.com and enter the online bookshop, click the book you would like to purchase and in the personalised dedication box type “FAMDEC” and any dedication you would like. You will then be sent your chosen book and a FREE book from the series.

Issue 16 Families Fife | 13

Out and About: familiesfife.co.uk/whatson November 2012 Saturday 3rd November

Elie Fireworks and Bonfire night Traditional annual bonfire and fireworks display to which all are invited.

Saline Fireworks and Bonfire night A spectacular fireworks display, huge bonfire and refreshments.

Rapunzel Puppet Show Perth Museum and Art Gallery. Enjoy this adaptation by Clydebuilt Puppet Theatre. Suitable for children age 4 +.

1pm. www.pkc.gov.uk 01738 632488 Swan Lake. Rothes Hall, Glenrothes. by Russian State Ballet and Opera House. 01592 611101

www.onfife.com The Jack & Jill Market Dunfermline 10.30am – 1.30pm 40 stalls bursting with quality, nearly-new baby & kids clothes, cots, toys, buggies, bikes, equipment and much more! (0-9 yrs). Snap up great BARGAINS and save £££. The Vine Venue, 131 Garvock Hill, Dunfermline KY11 4JU. To book a stall visit: www.jackandjillmarket.co.uk

Saturday 3rd - Wednesday 7th November Tales from the Little Fawn Theatre Tales from the Little Fawn Theatre is a funny, musical show featuring storytelling and hand crafted puppets and performed in the most intimate of settings. A truly unique experience not to be missed! age 0– 4.

3rd & 4th Carnegie Hall, 5th Lochgelly Centre, 6th Adam Smith Kirkcaldy, 7th Rothes Hall Glenrothes. www.onfife.com

Monday 5th November Burntisland Links Fireworks and Bonfire Spectacular annual bonfire and fireworks display with plenty for everyone.

Dunfermline Fireworks Display Spectacular Fireworks display. Held within Pittencrieff Park Dunfermline. Entertainment from 6pm Fireworks at 7pm Free Event.

Hogmanay Family Party Night Enjoy a seasonal 3 course Hogmanay dinner, followed by a disco and a Piper at the bells whilst children play in Fun Factory which is open untill 11.45pm.

Under 5s eat free. £29.99 per adult, £14.99 for children

Breakfast with Brewster Santa Back by popular demand. Santa will host breakfast on 2/9/15/16/22/23/24 December at 10-11.45am. Breakfast just £8.25 per adult and 2 kids eat FREE. Pay £2 per child for entry into fun Factory to play, meet Santa Brewster and receive a gift.

BOOKINGS ONLY Festive Menus Christmas menus run from 20th November

BREWERS FAYRE, FIFE LEISURE PARK, KY11 8EX TEL: 01383 840070 www.brewersfayre.co.uk

14 | Families Fife Issue 16

Saturday 10th November Craft Fayre St Andrews Victoria Memorial Hall, St Andrews free 10am-4pm.

www.walkaboutcrafts.com/fca.htm Christmas Fair Byre Theatre St Andrews The perfect opportunity to browse our Art & Craft market and buy that perfect, unique present for friends and family 10 am – 5pm

www.byretheatre.com Every weekend – 10th Nov to 9th Dec Garden Grow-How, Feed the Birds Dobbies Garden World, Dunfermline. Not only do birds create a nice interest in your garden, but bird feeding plays an important role in maintaining a happy ecological balance in the garden environment. Find out some top tips about how to care for birds in your garden during the winter – from bird boxes to bird feed. 11am - 2pm

Thursday 15th –Sunday 25th November Kinross-shire Music Festival A family festival over two weekends packed with live music of all styles and genres which takes place in Kinross and Milnathort. Take part in music and dance workshops or sign up for the Kinross-shire’s Got Talent Show (under 18’s). For more information go to: www.kinrossmusicfestival.co.uk

Friday 16th November Cowdenbeath Christmas Lights Switch on 5.30pm High Street

Friday 16th – Sunday 18th November Adventure Golf Island Dunfermline Anyone quoting “Families Fife” will receive a free slush puppy or chocolate bar.

Saturday 17th November Mini Big Ears Little Ears Perth Concert Hall A short classical concert for parents and babies Join three musicians from the renowned ScottishChamber Orchestra for a short, informal concert of classical music specially created for you and your baby. Norie-Miller Studio, 11am.

www.horsecross.co.uk 0845 612 6324 Craft Fayre Dysart Dysart Kirk, Dysart Free 10am-4pm. www.walkaboutcrafts.com/fca.htm Kirkcaldy Christmas Light Switch on Christmas Light Switch on is at 16:45.

Beforehand there will be the Kingdom FM Roadshow and live Bands appearing. Allied to this Peter Pan, Tinkerbelle, The evil Captain Hook and his Pirates will be in the Town Centre interacting with the Shoppers.

The Jack & Jill Market Dunfermline 10.30am – 1.30pm 40 stalls bursting with quality, nearly-new baby & kids clothes, cots, toys, buggies, bikes, equipment and much more! (0-9 yrs). Snap up great BARGAINS and save £££ The Vine Venue, 131 Garvock Hill, Dunfermline KY11 4JU. To book a stall visit:

www.jackandjillmarket.co.uk Sunday 18th November Kingdon Centre Glenrothes Lights Switch On A top secret act and special guest will be

complimented by Kingdom FM’s roadshow for our annual light switch on. Kingdom FM will kick off the festivities at 12noon.

The Happy Apples Kirkcaldy Overton Mains Community Centre 11am £3 per person. With the help from their magic tree The Happy Apples will bring you a fun-filled show full of happy songs, laughter and magic!!! www.thehappyapples.co.uk Mercat Reindeer Parade Kirkcaldy. Starts at 12pm.

Christmas Food and Craft Fair Cambo Estate Kingsbarns. In support of Gardening Leave Local crafts and delicacies. Seasonal music and entertainment 11 to 4pm

Thursday 22nd November Santa’s Grotto Kingdom Centre Glenrothes Grotto Open For Business – 22nd Nov (will be open Thur, Fri, Sat & Sun) and open all week on the week before Christmas.

Pamper & Swap Evening. Pitbauchlie Hotel, 47 Aberdour Road, Dunfermline Fife KY11 4PB on Thu 22nd Nov 12 at 7.30pm.

Contact: pitreavieplaygroup@hotmail.co.uk

Saturday 24th & 25th November also Saturday 8th December Christmas Craft Market King Edward Street Perth. Sat 9am-5pm & Sun 11am-5pm. Join in the festive atmosphere at Perth’s Christmas Craft Markets. Stalls selling local crafts such as wood turning, jewellery, chocolates, paintings, liqueurs and leather goods - ideal for Christmas presents or as a treat for yourself!

Saturday 24th & Sunday 25th November Xmas Craft Fayre Glenrothes Rothes halls, Glenrothes, Free 10-4pm

www.walkaboutcrafts.com/fca.htm Saturday 24th November Santa’s Arrival at St John’s Shopping Centre with Perth City Lights Switch On Come and visit Santa as he takes up residence in St John’s Shopping Centre. Santa will arrive at 11am prompt so make sure that you are in the Centre nice and early to see him! Later that evening Santa has been invited to lead the parade through the streets of Perth City and will help switch on the Christmas Lights. For more

information visit www.stjshopping.co.uk Dunfermline Christmas Lights Switch ON A fun and magical day for all the family.

Entertainment in and around the Town Centre from 12 Light Switch on at 6pm The Jack & Jill Market Perth 10.30am – 1.30pm 40 stalls bursting with quality, nearly-new baby & kids clothes, cots, toys, buggies, bikes, equipment and much more! (0-9 yrs). Snap up great BARGAINS and save £££. North Inch Community Campus, Gowans Terrace, Perth PH1 5BF. To book a stall visit: www.jackandjillmarket.co.uk

Saturday 24th November onwards Santa at St John’s Shopping Centre From, St John’s Shopping Centre is incredibly lucky to have Santa and his elves in their Grotto every Saturday from 11 am - 5 pm and Sunday

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❅ from 12 pm – 5 pm. Santa would also love boys and girls to visit him every day from 17th December until 24th December to give him their Christmas wishes. Come and visit Santa in his Greenland grotto in St John’s Shopping Centre.

Beat the queues and book your visit to Santa online at www.stjshopping.co.uk/grotto

Sunday 25th November Santa Arrival (11am) Dobbies Garden World, Dunfermline. See page 10.

Thursday 29th Nov – Sunday 30th Dec Snow White The Byre Theatre St Andrews. Filled with laughter, suspense and a host of colourful characters, the Byre Panto returns with a fresh take on this classic story that’s guaranteed to keep audiences of all ages spellbound.

www.byretheatre.com Friday 30th Nov – Monday 24th Dec Hansel & Gretel Carnegie Hall Dunfermline. See page 10.

December 2012 Saturday 1st December

Cupar Switch on Christmas Lights The Jack & Jill Market Dunfermline 10.30am – 1.30pm 40 stalls bursting with quality, nearly-new baby & kids clothes, cots, toys, buggies, bikes, equipment and much more!

(0-9 yrs). The Vine Venue, 131 Garvock Hill, Dunfermline KY11 4JU. To book a stall visit:

www.jackandjillmarket.co.uk From Saturday 1st December Breakfast and supper with Santa at Dobbies Dunfermline. See page 10.

Sat 1st & Sun 2nd, Sat 8th & Sun 9th Dec Santa’s Christmas Brunch Party Scone Palace Perth. See page 10.

Saturday 1st, 8th, 15th & 22nd December Christmas Panda Breakfasts at Edinburgh Zoo Edinburgh Zoo’s very own Panda Claus will be on hand to give each child a special gift. As well as this there will also be a fun festive activity to join in with! Booking for this event is essential.

call 0131 314 0334. www.edinburghzoo.org.uk Wednesday 5th – Saturday 8th Dec Aladdin and his Wonderful Lamp Cowdenbeath Community Pantomime, Lochgelly Centre. Aladdin is one of the most popular pantomimes of all time. The story is very strong as we see the switchback ride of Aladdin’s fortunes.

From poverty-stricken laundry boy to wealthy suitor of the Emperor’s daughter; robbed of both his new-found wealth and his promised bride, Aladdin travels to Africa to rescue his Princess and claim her hand in marriage. www.onfife.com 01592 583303

Thursday 6th December ChildLine Christmas Concert Perth Concert Hall. The evening promises to entertain and get you into the festive spirit as

www.familiesfife.co.uk

pupils from Perth & Kinross Youth Orchestras, Bands and Choirs join together to provide a joyous evening of Christmas music, carols and popular classics. 7.30pm

www.horsecross.co.uk 0845 612 6324 Thursday 6th – Sunday 9th December The Singing Kettle Shake, Rattle and Roll Rothes Hall Glenrothes Rosie has invited the Singing Kettle to help her prepare for the Best Kept Garden at Kettle Village Flower Show. Cilla, Artie, Gary and Kevin Shake, Rattle and Roll her garden to life with superb singalong. www.onfife.com 01592 611101

Friday 7th December Kilgraston Christmas Carol Evening Perth Concert Hall. 7pm www.horsecross.co.uk 0845 612 6324

Friday 7th Dec – Saturday 12th Jan Sleeping Beauty Adam Smith Theatre Sleeping Beauty will feature everything you know and love from the hugely successful ON at Fife Adam Smith team, joy, music, comedy, dance, laughter and of course loads of audience participation in the timeless story of a girl who spends one hundred years waiting for true love’s kiss.

www.onfife.com 01592 583302 Friday 7th – Sunday 30th December A Christmas Carol The Old Kirk Kirkcaldy A National Theatre of Scotland and ON at Fife co-production. Spooky re-telling of the classic festive fable is recommended for everyone aged 8+. Tel: 01592 611101 www.onfife.com

www.nationaltheatrescotland.com Friday 7th Dec– Saturday 5th Jan 2013 Mother Goose Perth Theatre The panto with the Eggs-Factor brings you heroes and villains, booing and cheering, slapstick, silliness and sing-along fun a plenty. Book your seats in Perth’s beautiful, historic theatre for one of the very best traditional family pantomimes and start looking forward to a cracking Christmas outing for the whole family.

www.horsecross.co.uk 0845 612 6324 Saturday 8th December Dunfermline Choral Union Christmas Concerts. Come along for festive fun as DCU and special guests the Dunfermline Junior Chorus, sing a variety of seasonal Christmas music for all to enjoy. 3pm and 7.30pm, at The Vine, 131 Garvock Hill, Dunfermline, KY11 4JU. Tickets £9 (£8 conc.) www.dunfermlinechoralunion.co.uk Christmas Craft Market Dunfermline East Church, Nightingale Place, Dunfermline on Sat 8th Dec 12 at 11am. With free soft play and storytelling.

Sunday 9th & Sunday 16th December Santa Party at Cluny Kids. See page 10.

Wednesday 12th – Friday 14th December Cinderella Rothes Hall Glenrothes Theatre Company presents another much-loved pantomime for all ages. Everybody

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knows the story of poor Cinderella, bullied by her step-mother Countess Verucca and stepsisters Hysteria and Amnesia. Join in the fun and laughter. Help the Fairy Godmother weave her magic. www.onfife.com 01592 611101

Thursday 13th – Saturday 15th December Scottish Opera and Little Ulla Lochgelly centre. Created especially for 3 to 6 year olds, this 45 minute interactive show features a magical mix of puppets, narrative, music and song and tells the story of a special mountain goat with a very big heart.

www.onfife.com 01592 583303 Friday 14th – Sunday 16th December Adventure Golf Island Dunfermline Anyone quoting “Families Fife” will be entered in to a raffle to win restaurant vouchers to be used within the leisure park.

Friday 14th – Monday 17th December Fife Nativity Play- Fife Animal Park The Fife Nativity (formally known as The Lochiehead Nativity) is an entertaining play for everyone as well as a gentle reminder of the lovely Christian principles on which we are meant to run our lives: love, kindness, care for all, patience and forgiveness - all of these are brought out in some measure in our play.

http://fifenativity.co.uk Saturday 15th December Christmas Decorations workshop St Andrews Museum for kids with Kate High. 10.30am – 12.30pm [ages 6+] free. Make you own Christmas surprise! Children under 8 must be accompanied by an adult. workshop MUST BE PRE-BOOKED on 01334 659380. St Andrews Museum, Kinburn Park, Doubledykes Road, St Andrews KY16 9DP

Sunday 16th December Perth Action for Churches Together Carol Service Perth Concert Hall. 7.30pm Free, with a collection taken for local charities. www.

horsecross.co.uk 0845 612 6324 Friday 21st – Monday 24th December Adventure Golf Island Dunfermline Anyone wearing a Christmas themed outfit and quoting “Families Fife” will get to play two rounds of ‘Adventure Golf’ for the price of one!

Saturday 22nd – Monday 24th Dec The Singing Kettle Fairytale Christmas Perth Concert Hall. 2pm.

www.horsecross.co.uk 0845 612 6324

Whilst every care has been taken to compile the Out and About section with accuracy, please remember to check with the venue before making plans to avoid any disappointment as Families magazine is put together weeks in advance of actual publication.

Issue 16 Families Fife | 15

Fife Childcare Information Service Childcare costs keeping you awake at night?

To get a better night's sleep, call us.

We can advise on: l Childcare

costs and how to pay

l Options

- nursery or childminder l Availability

It's our job to get you to yours. And get you a good sleep the night before.

Call us on: 01592 583146 Email: fife.chis@fife.gov.uk or visit www.scottishchildcare.gov.uk

Glasgow_Familiesglasgow_Landscape_180mmwx_130mmh.pdf

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Join in the

Christmas Magic at

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CM

Meet Father Christmas!

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Join Father Christmas and his elves for a magical experience at The Finest Toy Shop in the World!

Choose from a selection of magical experiences where there will be scrumptious food and Christmas activities to enjoy.

Book Online Today at www.hamleys.com Hamleys, 2nd Floor, St Enoch Centre, Glasgow Tel: 08717 042 990 Follow us online at...

16 | Families Fife Issue 16

www.familiesfife.co.uk