Families Fife, Perth & Kinross Jan & Feb 2015

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Inco rporating Perth & Kinross

the really useful magazine and website for families in the fife region Issue 29 • Jan/Feb 2015

www.familiesfife.co.uk

win

A fam to th ily ticket is g show reat !

S ee in side

Day by day what’s on for families listings, reviews and features

Thu 5 - Sun 8 Feb Thanks to our funders, sponsors and partners

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

Pick up your copy in…

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

Stickyscapes: London and Paris I n my role as editor of a children’s magazine I often get sent books to review.

(Well there has to be some compensation, no?). I must say that a few times now the information from Lawrence King Publishing has caught my attention. They seem to specialise in beautifully made, well thought out books that any child would covet.

And none more so than these fabulous sticker collections of the famous cities.

London features iconic red buses, Sherlock Holmes to the London eye – masses of landmarks and names that will be familiar to children across the UK.

Both volumes feature a clever twist in that they feature not only modern day Paris say, but also they flip over with a double sided city backdrop to give an imaginary and historical version of the city too. Look out too for other titles such as Space Travel Dice; a story telling game, Sew Fab; a fashionistas sewing guide or Woodland Friends; 20 prints to pull out and frame for younger children, all from the same publisher. 

Robert Samuel Hanson and Malika Favre Laurence King Publishing ISBN - 9781 85669 9549 – London £9.95 ISBN - 9781 85669 9563 – Paris £9.95

Contents

Inco rporating Perth & Kinross 3

Welcome to Families Fife

4

Who, What, Where, When Columnist Sharon Gilfillan takes a critical look at homework

6

Education and childcare Fostering, part-time parenting, out of school study and nursery options

8-10 The merits of after school activities with options from local class providers 11

Parent to parent Back by popular demand, this month we interview dancing mum Gillian Urquhart

12 Health and wellbeing We focus on keeping supple and stress free 14

Out and About Our round up of what’s on for the start of 2015

Contact us

Editor: Susan Kirkwood, editor@familiesfife.co.uk Tel: 01383 735938 or 07734 289 143 Design: White Creative www.whitecreativecompany.co.uk Proofreading: Kindly provided by Elaine Robinson 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: March-April 2015 Booking deadline: 31 January, Out: 03 March 2015

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 29

www.familiesfife.co.uk

www.familiesfife.co.uk

What will you and the kids be wearing on March 27th?

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ÊÊ Garden of Galanthus

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re you frozen or just Frozened out? I am writing in mid December but I’d put money on both, particularly, if you have children under ten. Phew, that was exhausting wasn’t it?

Well, it’s 2015 now and not quite time to warm up yet as Perth Concert Hall has an icy spectacular on offer in early February. Snow White on Ice is about to transform the concert hall into a theatre on ice as the Russian Ice Stars retell the classic tale of the enchanted mirror, the rosy apple and the Charming Prince. I’m in.

February is also the best time to catch snowdrops when the grounds of the Cambo Estate in Fife will be covered in a blanket of snowdrops or a garden of galanthus as Carol Klein from Gardener’s World would no doubt say.

There’s plenty to read this issue, our columnist Sharon queries the logic behind homework in it’s current format, we look at the benefits of sending your children, or let’s be accurate, ferrying your children to extra curricular activities and as usual we’ve rounded up the best of what’s on for families around the region.

Happy New Year to all.

Susan Kirkwood, Editor

campaign is poignant given that brain tumours are the biggest cancer killer of children and adults under the age of 40.

Children have lost parents, family members or even their teachers. And in many classrooms there remains a tragic reminder of a child whose life has been lost or damaged by this cruel cancer. The repercussions are felt daily; the lives of families and friends are never the same again.

Taking part is simple. Register today by visiting www.braintumourresearch. org/wearahatday. Fundraising materials including posters, leaflets, fridge magnets, pin badges, wristbands quizzes and hat making instructions will be available from the charity in early 2015. 

rain tumour has featured prominently in the news recently. Families are asked to support Wear A Hat Day, a fun-filled, annual brain tumour awareness event helping support research. The organiser, Brain Tumour Research, is asking families and children and schools across the UK to save the date, 27th March 2015, and register now.

The involvement of families and school children in the

For further information email wearahatday@ braintumourresearch.org or call the charity on 01296 733011

Jack and Jill online market

D

ID YOU KNOW that the Jack & Jill Market, Scotland’s quality nearly-new market is now also ONLINE? You can create as many FREE listings as you like for buyers to pick up items directly from you or for posting, or you can browse for online nearly-new baby & kids bargains from right across Scotland for either pick up or delivery.

As well as making and saving money online at The Jack & Jill Market, you can also book a stall to sell at your local Jack & Jill Market events in Dunfermline and Perth, and across Scotland, or turn up and snap up quality nearly-new toys, clothes, cots, buggies, bikes, books, maternity gear, and all the rest!  www.jackandjillmarket.co.uk

The Jack & Jill Market

Where Smart Mums Sell & Save

Bankfoot Home and Gardens All aspects of garden and landscape work

Baby & Kids Online Market

Scotland’s quality nearly-new baby & kids’ market is now also ONLINE. Create or browse FREE listings: buggies, clothes, toys, games, equipment.

Window Cleaning and PVC Cleaning Tel: 07455 563523 www.familiesfife.co.uk

Live Markets Resume in Fife, Perth and across Scotland in Feb 2015

Book A Sta ll

Issue 29 Families Fife | 3

News: Who, What, Where, When …

Alpine Summer

Guiding the way

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o you have what it takes to start a guide dog puppy on the journey to being a fully-fledged guide dog?

We’re appealing for people in the Fife and surrounding area to volunteer as puppy walkers. We’re looking for enthusiastic and dedicated volunteers who can care for the puppies full-time for the first year of their life.

Puppy walking is a crucial volunteering role which prepares guide dog puppies for their working life ahead by familiarizing them with

T different environments including the home, towns and public transport.

Volunteer puppy walkers provide the full-time care and education of a puppy from six weeks of age until they are between 12 and 14 months old. The puppies then return to Guide Dogs to begin formal training at the Forfar Training School.

Puppy walking is challenging and requires commitment, but with the support of Guide Dogs, our volunteers find puppy walking extremely rewarding.

To become a puppy walker, volunteers will need to be home for the majority of the day and be able to take their puppy into many varied environments, have access to a car and a securely fenced yard or garden.  If you are interested in finding out more about puppy walking, why not have a chat with our Volunteer Consultant Emma Murton. Emma Murton is a Volunteer Consultant and you can email: emma. murton@guidedogs. org.uk or phone 0845 372 7406

4 | Families Fife Issue 29

o explore the Swiss Alps in summer, nothing beats the style and variety on offer from Chilly Powder. With hotel rooms and large, self-catered chalets, Paul and Francesca Eyre’s expertise provides a beautiful Alpine experience, with crèche and kids club available for parents who need a bit of time to themselves and fabulous dinners to round off the day. The local, summer ‘Multi Pass’ is available at only 1 Euro per day when you stay at Chilly Powder and this gives instant access to 22 lifts in the Portes du Soleil area around Morzine, 850km of walking paths and 10 mountain lakes! This means there are endless possibilities for the family to enjoy the beautiful Alps in summer.

Portes du Soleil Multi Pass

The Multi Pass is the best option for those who want to use the lifts without taking a bike and they grant access to a number of other facilities as well. There are two Portes du Soleil Multi Pass options available this summer the standard Multi Pass which costs €6 a day(€55 for the whole summer) or the Premium Pass for €9 or €105 for the whole summer.

There is a discounted Multi Pass offer

available to visitors staying in one of the participating accommodations, which include hotels, apartments, chalets and campsites, full details of which can be found through the Tourist Office.

If you are staying with one of these companies, a Multipass is just €1 a day or €2 for a Multi Pass Premium.

However, even if you are staying elsewhere or just in the area for the day, you can still take advantage of all the Multi Pass has to offer by purchasing a day pass or season pass.

The standard pass covers:

Ê24 Ê cable cars and chairlifts Ê4 Êswimming pools & 2 lakes Ê5 Êcultural sites Ê8 Êtennis courts Ê2 Êice rinks Ê3 Êtourist trains Ê4 Êmini golf courses ÊInter-resort Ê bus system Ê850km Ê of footpaths ÊThe Ê Premium Pass also allows access to the new Morzine swimming pool complex. ÊMulti Ê pass requires a rechargeable hands free pass which you will be given at the time of purchase for a refundable €3 deposit. 

www.familiesfife.co.uk

It’s a Wonderful Fife

ÊHow Ê do parents and children fit it in? With school reducing arts, sporting and musical activities our children, the time after school is now more important than ever as we need to try to fit in clubs, swimming lessons, social events as well as free play time. ÊOnly Ê 20 minutes a week…

Homework is rarely 20 mins. If you have more than one child say or if there are a number of tasks. ÊMaybe Ê we should allow our children to decide if their homework is a worthwhile task? At home, we have both fabulous Roman and Viking shields that Gabe, our firstborn, had absolutely no input in making. It was the Viking shield that tipped us over the homework ledge enough to write to both teachers (after discussion with the children of course) The letter went something along the lines of ‘Apologies, family time is important we no longer wish to undertake homework’. Gabe enjoyed the freedom for P4 and didn’t suffer academically whilst Grace our second child, actually chose to complete most of her homework tasks, but it was their choice and we supported both. ÊEventually Ê our children will have to learn to study by themselves. But do they need to in early primary school?

Children spend 6 hours per day at school. This is only 1 hour less than I spend at work. So

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Local Kirkcaldy mum Sharon Gilfillan is back again this year to grace the pages of Families magazine.

With her ear permanently to the ground, Sharon is here to highlight local issues and share her views on our common concerns. should we not be affording our children the same work/life balance that many companies are adopting for staff? I know how disheartening I would feel to come home every Friday with a work task in my bag. ÊÊ Who really benefits from the photocopied tasks that take up preparation and marking time for teachers, waste paper and encroach on precious family time? How many hours of parents lives are spent on creative, elaborate competitive homework creations? Think back, how much did your child enjoy watching you do their homework task? Indeed did they even see it before the grand unveiling? ÊObviously Ê there are parents who enjoy homework and feel it progresses their children’s education. I acknowledge spending time learning with your child is important but a game of scrabble gets our two spelling correctly and scoring competitively and counting. ÊRecycling Ê may be one of the answers. Granted the Viking shield undid me but actually came in handy when Grace needed to create her Celtic shield. This was the only time her homework actually took 20 mins and she was able to accomplish it with minimum assistance from me. She only had to paint over “Gabe P3” and use ¾ roll of tin foil! ÊKnow Ê we have choices as parents. Homework is not compulsory and should not

be an added weekly pressure to our already busy family schedule. Schools have a choice too; they don’t need to tick the homework boxes.

Consultation with both parents and children would allow them to make an informed decision on the issue.

At a time when Fife Council is considering reducing the school week and structurally

ce Dan n Da h t i w Dan (6-10 ce Basics yrs) 1 11:15 0:30am

revamping the Victorian system, would time taken to prepare and mark homework not be better utilised by teachers spending time teaching? And shouldn’t teachers be looking at the individual child’s requirements for homework rather than the current blanket approach.

Indeed our children deserve a school/life balance. 

Stage Dan ce - Develop pe (15+yrs) 2:15-3:45p m

Body ing ition Cond ges) A l (A l :15am 0 1 0 9:3

ce Dan Stage 1-14 yrs) i (1 m e 0pm D -12:3 11:30

Boys Dance (All Ages) 1:15-2pm

All of these classes run at The Arts Hub on a Saturday, beginning on the 10th of January! Call us on (01592) 640604

Creative Learning Kirkcaldy Classes for Children and Young People

Day

DRAMA

e are the generation of parents who are heavily involved in our children’s education. Texts everyday from school; invites to classes to help out and constantly school fundraising. The question is however, do we need to share their weekly progress with a pressurised deadline attached? I am of course talking about the HOMEWORK issue.

Monday

Tuesday

Saturday

MUSIC

W

Tuesday Wednesday

GET INVOLVED

Class

Ages

Times

Drama 2

8-10

16:45 - 18:15

Youth Theatre 1

11-14

18:30 - 20:30

Youth Theatre 1

11-14

16:45 - 18:45

Youth Theatre 2

15+

19:00 - 21:00

Drama 1

5-7

9:30 - 10:30

Drama 2

8-10

Bel Canto Juniors

7-11

16:30 - 17:30

Bel Canto Seniors

12+

17:00 - 18:45

Vocal Coaching

7-12

GET IN TOUCH

01592 640604

website - www.ymts.co.uk facebook 10:45 - 12:15 youthmusictheatrescotland twitter - @YMTScotland The Arts Hub @ The Postings Hunter Street Kirkcaldy 17:15 - 18:15 KY1 1HN

Issue 29 Families Fife | 5

Education and Childcare Are you looking for friendly, professional childcare in Dunfermline?

I

f so, then pop along to Lauriston Nursery. The nursery follows the Pre-Birth to three Curriculum and the Curriculum for Excellence, thus providing a child-centred environment for learning and helping to develop the children’s interests. The purpose build facility boasts gym hall facilities as well as a large secure garden with wildlife and vegetable gardens. There is also CCTV indoors and outdoors for your child’s safety and your peace of mind.

Pre-school children take part in forest kindergarten outings and have a yearly trip based on topic or plans in the room.

There is a friendly and active parents committee up and running and parents are invited to parent play sessions.

Children and staff take part in the eco school initiative organisation: litter picking outings and weekly recycling, and the nursery is proud to have achieved their green flag. Future plans include getting both children and parents involved in the making of a new eco greenhouse made using recycled plastic bottles. The nursery provides all snacks, home cooked meals and milk time and follows NHS child smile programme. See advert on back page for details. 

Pre-school grant funding available Lauriston Nursery is situated on Robertson Road – just opposite the Queen Margaret hospital and boasts excellent access to bus and rail links with the M90 motorway just minutes away.

6 | Families Fife Issue 29

Home from home

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cademic Families is an Edinburgh based guardian agency which looks after international students when they come to boarding school in the UK. Although Academic Families is responsible for every student they rely on a team of host families to take an individual interest in each student.

Host families vary enormously – some have children at home, some are empty nesters and others are grandparents but all are interested in getting to know an international student and providing a Scottish home for them.

Most students are between 13 and 18 years old and return home for longer mid terms and holidays. They might come for one, two or more years and most go on to a UK university. Usually students only visit

their host family for one or two weekends each term but of course hosts can visit their student at school, invite them for Sunday lunch and cheer them on at a school event.

Younger students like to have quite active visits but older students prefer to study and have a quiet visit. Some hosts prefer one student and others prefer more – Academic

‘Host families need to have sound family values and a sense of fun and adventure’ Families’ skill is matching students and hosts to ensure happy families!

Academic Families takes responsibility for the students, organising their travel arrangements, and sorting out any problems that may arise so hosts are never on their own – in fact they simply have all the fun getting to know an interesting young person and including them in their family.

Host families need to have sound family values, a sense of fun and adventure – oh and a spare bedroom for the student when they visit! Academic Families undertakes PVG disclosure checks on all adults in the home, organises all the arrangements and then hosts receive expenses for the stay so won’t be out of pocket.

Hosting is a great fun way to keep in touch with what’s happening at your nearby boarding school, and to learn more about other cultures! Your first step to hosting is to contact Academic Families and discuss expectations and discover if hosting is for you. 

www.familiesfife.co.uk

New study centre

Over-praising pupils can lead to low attainment

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recent report by the Sutton Trust, ‘What Makes Great Teaching’, claims that lavishing praise on low-attaining students is not encouraging, but can in fact give a message of low expectations.

Other commonly used teaching methods, such as streaming by ability, are shown to have little positive effect.

Professor Robert Coe, from Durham University said: “Great teaching cannot be achieved by following a recipe, but there are some clear pointers in the research to approaches that are most likely to be effective, and to others, sometimes quite popular, that are not.” 

Further reading: www.telegraph.co.uk/education/ educationopinion/11204935/Whatreally-makes-great-teaching.html

umon St Andrews Study Centre opened in May 2014, offering individualised maths and English study programmes which are tailored to all ages and abilities. Established for over 50 years, the Kumon programmes enable children to develop their study skills and confidently tackle advanced work.

Chris Proudfoot, the Instructor, says: “As a primary teacher, I’ve always enjoyed working with children and over the years have had many opportunities to see them grow and develop. On my first ever visit to a Kumon Study Centre I was impressed by the enthusiasm and smiles of the students and realised then that, as a Kumon Instructor, I could make a difference to more children, helping them to achieve their potential.”

Your child will initially start at a comfortable level, with a focus on building a strong foundation in the way they study. By ensuring work is manageable, without being too simple, Kumon is able to develop pace, concentration and rhythm, whilst also cultivating their ability to work

independently. Once this foundation is established, more challenging work will be set that will help your child to discover and learn for themselves, before confidently tackling questions they have never seen before.

Kumon develops children through the acquisition of independent learning skills, rather than teaching in the conventional sense. Your child will therefore be equipped with the ability to learn for themselves so they do not become dependent on – or limited by – the skills and knowledge of others. 

Family Values F ostering Relations is an independent, not-forprofit fostering agency based in Scotland. We provide quality, supported, stable, family placements for children and young people. Our agency is designed to meet a wide range of needs, including those of children and young people with complex and complicated histories who may make considerable demands upon their carers.

We are committed to helping children and young people who have experienced abuse, disruption and trauma in their lives. We also aim to provide the best service to our carers through support and training and to value the enormous contribution they make to the lives of children who cannot live with their own family.

As part of our ongoing campaign to provide safer homes for Looked after Children, we are looking

www.familiesfife.co.uk

to raise the profile of fostering across Fife. There are currently 439 children who are living with foster carers in Fife, with not nearly enough carer households to accommodate this growing number.

Fostering is a highly rewarding role and we look A TR for carers from all walks of life ADIT ION to help provide safe, secure FAM OF ILY V homes for our children.

ALU ES You do not have to have any specific qualifications We are looking for carers who are patient, kind and understanding. to apply. All we ask is that you have a spare room,At areFostering Relations we are committed to working alongside our carers committed to the well- to being ensure theWebest for the children who arekind placed with us. are looking for carers who are patient, and understanding. of the children you look after At Fostering Relations we are committed to working alongside our carers If you are interested applying forwho this rewarding role, and have a desire to learn. to ensure the in best for the children arehighly placed with us.

In return we offer you please contact If youus are today. interested in applying for this highly rewarding role, 24 hour support from please contact us today.

245 our highly skilled SocialTel: 01383 828 Tel: 01383 828 245 Workers, on- going training Website: www.fosteringrelations.org.uk Website: www.fosteringrelations.org.uk and development and a Text: Foster17 to 88020 with your full name Text: Foster17 to 88020 with your full name generous weekly fee. We consider foster carers to be co-workers who have a right to be supported, trained and remunerated appropriately and valued accordingly. 

A TR

ADIT ION FAM OF ILY V ALU ES

Could you foster a child?

Could you foster a child?

Issue 29 Families Fife | 7

Clubs and classes special

Time well spent W

hilst it is tempting to allow kids to spend all of their leisure time parked in front of the television or playing video games, parents who encourage children to participate in activities outside of the home really are helping with their child’s development. After-school activities can change a child’s life for the better and have multiple benefits. Families reminds us why it’s worth getting up early on a Saturday for that dance class or standing in a field cheering your son on a Sunday afternoon, when let’s face, there are plenty other things you could be doing.

Physical activity

Any kind of physical activity is good for children – and adults. This combats inertia, weight gain and gets children into other good habits such as learning to work in teams and fair play. The children develop better coordination and are building healthier habits.

Creativity

Arts, music, drama, crafts, collecting...

These are all activities that encourage creativity, but also help children learn problem-solving skills and encourage their natural curiosity. Children can explore their individual talents and feel greater confidence as they discover their abilities.

Stress release

In an increasingly complex world, even children are under stress. They have pressures of school, of homework, projects,

CALENDAR OF EVENTS JANUARY, FEBRUARY & MARCH

Haggis hunt & munch

Jungle book adventure Make it for mum

Kids golf coaching

• Open 7 days • Activities • Food • Gift experience vouchers • kids birthday parties To book Contact: 01592 720374, kids@clunyclays.co.uk

8 | Families Fife Issue 29

keeping their room tidy, getting on with siblings and friends. Activities that take them out of themselves and allow them to have fun doing something they enjoy are deeply beneficial. We all feel better after doing something ‘just for us’.

Confidence and skills

Learning any new skill is an excellent way to build self-confidence. It’s great to be good at something, it gets you respect – just ask the girl in the class who is best at making loom bands! Or the boy who can dribble. ‘Wow you can play piano - that’s awesome’. And it is.

Time management

How do kids juggle all the things they have to do — school, homework, family time, friendships and after-school activities?

Participating in a favorite activity is for fun and helps kids learn to plan and prioritise.

Allow older kids to be responsible for their own schedules, as long as they don’t overdo activities and neglect school work and family time. I tried this by allowing my daughter not to continue with her Spanish class, which she enjoyed, and I thought was worthwhile. After missing two terms she is now dying to go back. Who knows best?

Here are a selection of fabulous local clubs, classes and activities that your child can benefit from. We are so lucky to have such dedicated people in our midst who enjoy working with young people and getting the best out of them.

ÊÊ YTMS

ÊCluny Ê Clays Cluny Kids are running a Kids Golf coaching course on Saturday 28th February 2015. It is suitable for children aged 6-14 years of age and runs for 5 weeks Cluny Clays is open 7 days and offers activities, parties, food, gift experience, archery and much more.

To book contact 01592 720374 or kids@ clunyclays.co.uk. www.clunyclays.co.uk

ÊDoodle Ê and Splat Doodle & Splat is a fun and exciting arts and crafts class for children aged from 1-5 years.

In the classes we provide children with imaginative play, a sensory experience and creative arts and crafts. Activities vary weekly, and this allows the children to experiment with colour, shape and texture through working with a wide variety of materials. You and your wee ones get to have quality time together, making some fantastic masterpieces to take home to show families and friends.

There’s nothing better than seeing your wee ones faces light up with pride when they show off their creations!

The classes are all very relaxed and there will

Art, Craft & Messy Play Classes in Dunfermline & Kirkcaldy for ages 1-2.5 yrs & 2-5 yrs Birthday Parties for 2-10 years Lots of different arts & craft themes to choose from!

Contact us: Lynda/Pamela on 0794 282 5114 doodle@doodleandsplat.co.uk www.doodleandsplat.co.uk

www.familiesfife.co.uk

ÊCommunity Ê Use Schools Exciting new courses and classes for all ages starting in January 2015 www.fifedirect.org.uk/cuschools www.facebook.com/cuswest ÊHighland Ê Hustle Highland Hustle® workout is inspired by Scottish dance created by Gillian Urquhart.

Gillian began dancing when she was just 5 years old going on to win a competition 6 months after. She then went on to perform in the Tattoo and at the premier of Braveheart at Stirling Castle and still judges Highland Dance

part in Scottish dance but in a fun relaxed way with a modern twist. The classes have individual tracks to raise the heart rate, there are a couple of group dances inspired by ceilidhs and they also include some toning to firm up those wobbly bits.

Gillian currently runs a class in Scone but there are plans afoot to expand the classes into Perth in January. Anyone in the Perth area who wants to take part can keep up to date with new developments by subscribing to: www.highlandhustle.com as there are also plans to roll out Highland Hustle® across Scotland.

Even mums at home can keep fit by tuning into Gillian’s online workouts.

Gillian also teaches children’s Highland Dance classes. To get in touch go to her website. http://www.highlandhustle.com/ contact-us/ Get a flavour of Highland Hustle at www. youtube.com/watch?v=c6ecBN2d_YY

always be something for your wee one’s to try out and as a parent/carer you don’t have to worry about the mess!

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

Fife-wide leisure opportunities for the whole family

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he New Year is a good time to start planning how to keep all the family active – it’s a great way to have fun, learn new skills and enjoy the health and wellbeing benefits that an active lifestyle delivers.

With 13 leisure centres across the region, Fife Sports and Leisure Trust is Fife’s leading provider of sports and leisure facilities with the largest variety of programmes and activities on offer for all ages and abilities.

The Trust has a speciallydesigned programme of activities for youngsters that are all about getting active while having fun. And, the Trust is ideally placed to provide pathways to swimming, athletics, gymnastics and many more sports clubs which often use the Trust’s facilities for training.

The range of classes on offer is huge, with pre-school upwards well catered for with gymnastics, football, trampolining, swimming, Run, Jump and Throw, mini

www.familiesfife.co.uk

competitions today.

Gillian created Highland Hustle for adults as she explains ‘Highland Dance is a great way to keep fit when you are younger but it’s not sustainable past mid 20’s!’ She created Highland Hustle® to allow adults to take

tennis and much, much more.

The Trust is dedicated to keeping classes affordable to encourage more youngsters to get more active more of the time – and, it offers Quid-aKid Weekends in all of its leisure centres which gives juniors aged 17 and under access to swimming and racquet sports for just £1.

The Trust hasn’t forgotten about parents either – there are a host of great classes and activities on offer across the region. Leisure Active, the Trust’s low-cost membership programme, offers the best choice of facilities, expert staff and fitness programmes in Fife. No matter what your fitness level or budget, Leisure Active has an option to suit everyone – with monthly or annual memberships with no joining fee – it really is the best option to feel your best in 2015.

Many of the Trust’s centres have crèches available so it’s easy to fit in a workout or a relaxing session in the health suite with great childcare on offer.  See www.fifeleisure.org.uk for details

ÊHelen Ê O’Grady Drama Academy The Helen O’Grady Drama Academy was established over 30 years ago in Western Australia. Classes were started in village halls and community centres to offer children of all ages a unique programme of drama designed to encourage their confidence, communication skills and self esteem.

The programme now operates in 23 countries world wide with branches

Join us at the Helen O’Grady Drama Academy Classes in speech, drama and self confidence throughout Fife www.helenogradyeastcentralscotland.co.uk

01382 330052

Issue 29 Families Fife | 9

Clubs and classes special throughout the UK and weekly classes in many locations in Fife, Perth and Kinross.

The Principal, Barbara, says, “The original philosophy of drama being a wonderful vehicle to enhance children’s understanding of themselves and others still stands firm: our classes are fun, energetic and structured: we provide a non-competitive environment where children can develop at their own pace while discovering their own personality: Drama helps towards their social and emotional development and assists their language acquisition.”

These affordable classes are held weekly in 3 age groups and last for one hour. There are currently studios in Kinross, Cupar, Kirkcaldy. Perth, Glenrothes, Newport on Tay, Dunfermline and St Andrews – there’s bound to be one near you! All teachers are fully qualified and trained.

For more information, contact Barbara at: tayforth@helenogrady.co.uk

ÊJo Ê Jingles Jo Jingles classes return for another term of musical fun starting on Monday 5th January. If you are looking for a fun interactive activity for you and your little one why don’t you come along and join us? Our classes include music, singing, percussion instruments, action songs, dancing and fun props too. We have classes suitable for babies from 3 months to children age 4. We now have 21 classes running in Fife every week! We are also available for birthday parties and sessions at nurseries, playgroups and toddler groups.

See our website for all class details www. jojingles.com/fife e-mail - jojinglesfife@ hotmail.co.uk or call Julie on 01383 734080

ÊMiss Ê Pauleys As well as being a small arts and crafts gallery with workshop space in the hear of Dunfermline, Miss Pauley’s holds regular arts and crafts classes as well as craft parties.

Miss Pauley’s can be booked to come to your location as well as booking the craft room at the shop for bespoke parties

There are lots and lots of fun classes coming up in the new year including Decoupage Picture Frame, a Decoupage Club, Price: £20 (Block of 4) Painting and drawing for beginners, Acrylic painting for beginners, Painting Furniture for beginners, Kids Painting, Adults Painting for advance beginners, Fused Glass, Beginning Crochet, Kids stitch club - A 9 week long sewing class for children, perfect for the young budding designer and for kids who love to craft Price: £45 Date: 9 weeks from Sunday 18th Jan Time: 11-12, Age: 7-12 Adults Learn to sew, Learn to sew with Zips For most classes you will bring some of your own items to modify. For dates, prices, times and age suitability check Miss Pauley’s website www.misspauleys.com

ÊRugbytots Ê classes in Fife Looking for an energetic fun class for your child. Rugbytots has limited spaces left in all classes in Fife. Come along and join in the fun!

We have availability in Letham, Dalgety Bay and Dunfermline. All bookings can be done online at www.rugbytots.co.uk.

One mum recently commented ‘Many thanks, Rugbytots has been by far the best

 Call Susan on 07734 289 143 to advertise here 10 | Families Fife Issue 29

activity that we have taken part in and worth every penny for the range of skills and the discipline.’ e-mail sandra@rugbytots.co.uk or call 0845 313 3252

ÊYouth Ê Music Theatre Scotland Youth Music Theatre Scotland are based at The Arts Hub in the Postings Shopping Centre, Kirkcaldy. We run a range of classes for children and young people on a weekly basis through our partnership with Fife Cultural Trust, these classes include Drama from age 5 to a Musical Theatre class on a Friday evening to Dance Classes with Daniel on a Saturday!

We have a wide range of classes and activities to suit all of the family. see our website for more details on all the classes we offer www.ymts.co.uk.

YMTS also run Holiday intensive performance projects, in the last year we have performed Honk! Jnr with children aged 7-14 at The Lochgelly Centre, West Side Story at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe and The Phantom of the Opera (Youth Edition) at the Adam Smith Theatre. We have a range of productions coming up in the next year beginning with our Easter Project for 7-14 year olds. We will perform in April at the Lochgelly Centre and rehearsing during the Easter Holidays. Dates for rehearsals and casting will be announced in January so keep an eye on our website for more information or call The Arts Hub on 01592 640604. 

Call: 01383 737 614 or visit: www.misspauleys.com

www.familiesfife.co.uk

Parent to parent Why you like living where you do?

Scone is a lovely community with one, large primary school. We have lovely countryside right on our doorstep yet we can be in Perth within minutes.

How child friendly is it?

There are lots of local clubs and many of a really good quality. The local park is of a good size, and although the play park is currently closed, the new park doesn’t look far away from being finished and is looking great! There are tennis courts, football pitches and plenty of green spaces.

Favourite shop It’s got the Bean Shop in George Street, Perth. Their coffee is amazing - and you get a free sample coffee when you go in, bonus!

Favourite park My children love going to the new South Inch Park in Perth. Loads to do and they inevitably end up bumping into someone else they know too!

Favourite children’s club/class With 3 children we spend a lot of time (and money!) on clubs so it is hard to pick. But, the Tayside Judo Club is really well run.

The leaders make it fun, the coaching is of a good standard and the children all know what is expected of them so they all behave really well. Contact number is: 07969707009 Favourite alternative health clinic/pre or post natal class It had to be Pregnancy Yoga! I always felt amazing afterwards even though I generally fell asleep every week during the 15-minute relaxation at the end!

Proudest eco-friendly moment Chopping up a tree that had come down in the garden, stacking the logs and using them in the stove to heat the house.

Best planet saving tip This one was my Gran’s - use Bicarbonate of Soda to clean things so you don’t have to use lots of chemicals!

No parent should be without A list to help me remember what is on! I literally can’t survive without one!

Parenting pet hates When my children seem to go temporarily hard of hearing if I ask them to do something!

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Gillian Urquhart is a highland dancing, PE teaching mum who’s been living in Scone, Perthshire with husband Fraser and their three primary aged children for the past 12 years. More recently however, Gillian has brought us Highland Hustle. Described as a fitness workout, Highland Hustle mixes elements of the traditional with the modern, taking the key elements of highland dancing and combining it with highenergy music to create a fun and funky dance workout.

You can read more about Gillian’s classes in our Clubs feature or even try her Plank – see the Health and Wellbeing section. Meanwhile we asked her to tell us about local life in Scone.

Funniest comment For some reason when he was 3 my son insisted that his name was Danger and that he was a Daddy with 5 children. He got very upset if we giggled about it. It became a tad embarrassing when he only wanted to answer to ‘Danger’! Who knows why!

Favourite day out My favorite day is when we get up, make a picnic or take a load of snacks with us on a day out on the bikes. If it is cold and wet, we wrap up warm. Sometimes it is the thought of getting out that is tricky but once you are out it’s fantastic! Cycle paths such as the one round Loch Leven, the North Inch in Perth or around the woods are fantastic for all the family as they are traffic free.

Favorite family holiday spot Anywhere in the caravan as a family, but especially France, when it’s sunny!

Best children’s book It has got to be Danny Champion of the World. It was my favorite as a child and my boys loved when we read it together too.

Best children DVD or video My oldest son watched the Cars movie so much the DVD was worn out! I think I know every word of by heart.

Most played with toys Lego, Lego and Lego!

Biggest waste of money Skylander characters for the PlayStation.

They cost a fortune and then the game has hardly been played with once the initial novelty was over!

Most successful recipe/food I love my slow cooker to help me mid week when I’m working. I know it sounds quite sad but to know I have tea under control makes me feel a little smug! My stew doesn’t follow a recipe but a tiny amount of fresh ginger gives it a warming feeling whilst not being too spicy for the children - and it’s really good for you! I tend to use beef, a stock cube or some red wine (the heat cooks off all the alcohol!) or instead I put in a carton of tomato passata and whatever veg is in the fridge. Celery gives a good taste but generally melts away to nothing so the kids don’t know they are eating veg. 

Issue 29 Families Fife | 11

Health & Wellbeing Turn it around: How to help your child overcome stress, anxiety and depression

Y

ou probably won’t be surprised to hear that stress, anxiety and depression in children is worryingly getting more prevalent.

The Office of National Statistics has found that one in ten children now suffer from mental health problems, with children as young as five being treated for depression. With these shocking statistics, experts say it is going to become a major health problem in the future unless something is done now to tackle stress in children.

Although stress is not the same as depression, prolonged periods of stress can lead to depression, and about half of people diagnosed with depression are also diagnosed with an anxiety disorder. The earlier we can reach the children showing signs of stress the better we can help them.

Stressful lives?

Considering our own increasingly stressful lives, it is no surprise to learn that our children are suffering from rising stress. Parents under pressure and overwhelmed with their jobs, affects the way they parent. Rising unemployment and financial problems associated with the economic downturn increases tension that children pick up on. Heavily orchestrated schedules of extra activities can also leave little free time for children to be children, and to relax.

School and social life also create pressures that can feel overwhelming for children. NSPCC research recently found that academic worries were the biggest cause of stress for nearly 50% of children. With an increase in the number of tests, and the pressure on schools to perform in league tables, is it any surprise that studying comes top of the stress list? Other common sources of childhood stress such as bullying, sibling rivalry, peer pressure are all fairly normal parts of growing up, but because children now have less free time to relax these ordinary problems can become magnified and less easy for them to deal with.

Spotting the signs Stress or anxiety in children can be difficult to spot. Signs to look out for would include a low mood, unhappiness, tearfulness or irritability not related to anything specific.

Sleeping problems, clingy behaviour, stomach aches and headaches are also signals. The main thing to look for is a change in behaviour. Trust your instinct. Erika

12 | Families Fife Issue 29

The Plank

T

he plank is a fantastic exercise for toning all over the body. If you can’t do the full plank then allow the knees to lower onto the ground to make it a bit easier to start with.

Remember to keep the body in a straight line and try to keep the bottom in line with the rest of you! Time yourself on your first attempt and don’t lose heart if it is not very long!

Aim to do the plank at least once a day for the next month and write down each time how long to manage to do it for. You will be amazed how much better you can get in a short space of time! 

Brodnock, one of the UK’s leading experts on the subject of raising happy, successful children says, “Don’t mistake your child’s behaviour for being naughty, when they may be feeling stressed and anxious.”

As a parent, you can’t protect your kids from the stresses of our modern world, but you can help them develop healthy ways to cope.

Notice out loud. Tell your child when you notice that something’s bothering them and name it, “Do you feel angry with what happened?” or “You must have felt worried about that.” Erika Brodnock explains this as “Notice, it, own it, tame it,” she continues, “once you can identify the emotion you can then manage it. Without this, things are significantly more difficult.”

Explore and empower. Once they understand the feeling they have, explore together what to do. Simple techniques can make a world of difference and have a profound effect on the way they feel. When they start to feel stressed, encourage them to ask for help for example.

Be you! Look at your own moods, behaviours and energy levels. “We can all put a smile on our face at the end of a bad day but when the energy isn’t there your child will notice” says Erika Brodnock, “parents need to learn to manage their moods too!” This is backed up by statistics that show 60-90%

of what we learn is through non-verbal communication. If we want our children to manage their emotions effectively, we must model the behaviour we want them to embrace.

Building stress-free kids Exercise, a nature walk, dancing to music will all naturally release those ‘feel-good’ endorphins that help reduce stress. Eating well, drinking lots of water, a bedtime routine and set schedules so your child can rely on daily patterns, are all ways in which you can help. Erika Brodnock recommends a 15 minute ‘Golden Moment’ every day with your child, “this is an opportunity for the child to speak privately and confidentially with their parent, knowing they can say anything without criticism or complaint, which builds trust and strengthens bonds.” This goes a long way towards protecting a young person against developing depression.

As a parent, it hurts to see your child unhappy or stressed, but resist the urge to fix every problem for them and instead, focus on helping your child grow into a problem-solver — who knows how to roll with life’s ups and downs, put feelings into words, calm down when needed, and bounce back to try again.

By teaching healthy coping strategies, you’ll prepare your kids to manage the stresses that come in the future. 

W

arm Hearts Yoga classes are a unique activity to do with your baby or child at any age.

In one class we can go from running and jumping around one moment to quietly concentrating the next. We stretch, sing, dance and laugh. We tell stories and use our body to be everything from a tree to a dragon to an alien from planet Mars! We learn to focus our mind whilst developing our physical strength, balance and flexibility, and we do all of this whilst working together and having fun! Warm Hearts Yoga offer classes in St Andrews and Glenrothes for children from 6 weeks to 10 years. 

Contact: 07841 104830, www.warmheartsyogababies.co.uk, sarah@warmheartsyogababies.co.uk

www.familiesfife.co.uk

Is it cow’s milk allergy?

I

s your baby crying excessively in its first few months? Are you concerned that something might be wrong? New research shows that persistent and unexplained crying can be a sign of cow’s milk allergy, an intolerance that is notoriously difficult to diagnose. A new campaign called Is it Cow’s Milk Allergy? provides expert advice to help parents spot and understand the symptoms of CMA, which occurs when the immune system identifies a protein within the cow’s milk as harmful, and triggers an allergic reaction. Cow’s milk allergy can affect up to 7.5% of children under the age of one, and is the most common type of food allergy in young infants, yet it can be very difficult to diagnose as symptoms are often mistaken for other common conditions such as colic and eczema.

Symptoms will also vary from baby to baby, and can be immediate or delayed, so it is important to know the signs and symptoms to look out for. Visit www.isitCowsMilkAllergy. co.uk for more information and to download a fact sheet, symptom diary and detailed questionnaire which you can complete and then discuss with your GP. 

The Allergy UK helpline is on 01322 619898.

Great article ‘Lactose intolerance’ on familiesonline.

Need a pick me up?

W

e all know what it’s like to feel physically and mentally exhausted from a busy day at work or with the kids and coping with everything can be an everyday battle.

Did you know that taking Pharmaton Vitality capsules helps reduce temporary tiredness and restore vitality when taken daily, and can be taken for a period of twelve weeks?

Pharmaton Vitality capsules are packed with vitamins, minerals and the unique Ginseng G115 that’s clinically proven to relieve fatigue and also aid mental and physical wellbeing. Pharmaton Vitality capsules are also supported by over 30 clinical trials and studies. 

Try Pharmaton Vitality Capsules, to feel the positive difference.

(Licensed medicine) For the relief of fatigue. Always read the label

Issue 29 Families Fife | 13

www.familiesfife.co.uk 55346 Pharmaton UK AD 87mm x 130mm AW.indd 1

08/07/2014 12:44

Out and About

Perth Concert Hall set for frozen makeover SNOW WHITE ON ICE Perth Concert Hall Thu 5 – Sun 8 Feb 2015

Until 11th January 2015 Jack and the Beanstalk Pantomime Adam Smith Theatre Kirkcaldy Written by Alan McHugh and Directed by Jonathan StoneWith the fabulous Panto Dame Billy Mack! Fife’s Favourite Pantomime gets GIGANTIC! Help Jack make the right decisions on his way to market with a very special friend to help. Filled with music, gigantic laughs and more than a few surprises, Jack and the Beanstalk promises to be lots of fun for the whole family.

www.onfife.com Saturday 3rd January The Singing Kettle Big Christmas Party The Alhambra Theatre, Dunfermline The Singing Kettle are having a PARTY and you are all invited! Anya, Kevin and Gary will be at their breathtaking best for their spectacular “Big Christmas Party” show.

I

magine the speed and danger of speed skating combined with the beauty and grace of ballet. This is the cultural combination that awaits audiences when ice-dancing phenomenon The Russian Ice Stars arrive in Perth Concert Hall this February. The show transforms the stage into a magical frozen wonderland to perform Snow White on Ice from Thursday 5 until Sunday 8 February.

The original story of an enchanted mirror, a beautiful girl, the ultimate Prince Charming and a shiny red apple is bought to life on the icy stage. Featuring a dazzling display of world-class skating and breathtaking aerial aerobatics Snow White on Ice features mesmerising choreography from World, European and Olympic competitors performed on a spectacular set to a wonderful score.

Joining The Russian Ice Stars as the Fairy News Reporter will be one of

www.onfife.com Wednesday January 14th Gluten free baking class starts on January 14th.

The class will be held in The Stables Workshop on Falkland Estate and costs £58 for a hands on full day session. Catherine Baker who runs The Auchtermuchty Cake Company (gluten free)

Email Colin@breadin fife.co.UK , 01337 858031 or look on www.breadinfife.co.uk Saturday 17th January Caro Bridges The Earthship Fife Visitor Centre, Kinghorn Loch Caro Bridges (from Caro Bridges and the River

band), returns to Earthship Fife Visitor Centre for a fourth music session on Saturday 17th January from 2pm to 4pm.Come along and make some music with your instrument or your voice. This is an informal and fun session - everyone is welcome, including complete beginners. No need to book but it would be great to know in advance if you are coming.

01592 891 884, www.sci-scotland.org.uk

Sunday 25th January Cluny Clays - Haggis hunt and munch Design and dress it & cook it 1pm-3pm, 4-9 years To book contact: 01592 720374 or email kids@ clunyclays.co.uk

www.clunyclays.co.uk From 27th January Art Lab Methil Heritage Centre How do artists decide what to paint? How do they use colour, light and shadow to create a mood? What stories might be hidden inside a painting? Want to find out more? Then come along to our colourful, family-friendly exhibition where you can enjoy looking at different types of paintings and have fun with some arty activities. Open Tuesday-Thursday 11am-4.30pm, Saturday 1pm-4.30pm

www.methilheritage.org.uk Friday 30th January Frozen Sing a Long The Alhambra Theatre, Dunfermline

14 | Families Fife Issue 29

the country’s much-loved television personalities, Rustie Lee. Renowned for her infectious laughter and effervescent personality some of the older audience members may remember Rustie from the set of TV-AM. More recently she’s graced our screens on Channel Five’s Celebrity Super Spa, ITV’s award-winning comedy Benidorm, BBC1’s EastEnders and Doctors.

This spellbinding show promises to sparkle with sheer beauty and elegance that will thrill the whole family.  For tickets and info contact Horsecross Arts Box Office on 01738 621031 visit www.horsecross.co.uk

HWIN

A family ticket to Snow White on Ice

Q. Which well-know TV star plays the Fairy News Reporter in the show?

To enter go to: www.familiesfife.co.uk/ offers

Singalonga Productions are delighted to announce that Disney’s Frozen is the new Singalonga must see! All the usual suspects of lyrics on screen to sing along with together with a live host and a magic moments fun pack so that you can interact with the movie. The host will show you how to use the fun pack and then just sit back and ‘Let it Go’! YOU the audience are the stars! Remember to dress up as your favourite character for the fancy dress competition and who wouldn’t want to be a Snow Queen for the day or Olaf the snowman, the coolest iceman ever! It’s the most popular comedy-adventure to hit the big screen this year and add the fairydust of Singalonga and you are guaranteed a great time. Come on an epic journey to find Anna’s sister Elsa, the Snow Queen and put an end to her icy spell. Sooooo ‘do you wanna build a snowman…..?’ 01383 740384 www.alhambradunfermline.com

30th January – 15 March 2015 Snowdrop Festival Cambo Estate, Kingbarns, St Andrews Thousands of snowdrops carpet the woodlands – National Collection of over 350 different Snowdrops – Feed the Piglets – Story telling – Environmental Sculptures – Art / Craft Workshops

www.camboestate.com/events-list/

www.familiesfife.co.uk

familiesfife.co.uk/whatson play games, watch wildlife and more. Come and have fun.

Age 6 to 13yrs. 10:00am - 4:00pm. £75 for 3 days.

Early Bird Discount - £60 for 3 days if booked by Wed 21st Jan. Fully insured, disclosed qualified experienced Forest School leaders Booking essential. Contact: chris.childe_ education@yahoo.co.uk

Tel: (01337) 830621, Mob: (07587) 893190.

11th - 15th February Snowdrops by Starlight Cambo Estate, Kingbarns, St Andrews Ever Illuminated Snowdrop Wood

www.snowdropsbystarlight.com Sunday 15th February Cluny Clays - Jungle book adventure Join Mowgli journey through the jungle to the man village 1pm-3pm, 4-9 years To book contact: 01592 720374 or email kids@ clunyclays.co.uk

www.clunyclays.co.uk Saturday 21st February Sids Deep Sea Discovery Show Carnegie Hall, Dunfermline It’s raining outside but there are plenty of fun things to do inside with Sid and his dog Fuzzy.Join them as they venture into a fish tank to find out what a mermaid is doing with Sid’s TV remote control, who has her pearls, and if Sid can make friends with a dangerous shark!This exciting and colourful underwater adventure bubbles over with sea creatures, songs, stalagmites, stalactites and waves of educational, fun, interaction. 2.30pm www.onfife.com

2nd January – 7th January Adventure Island Golf – special offers.

Dinosaur Egg Hatching Golfers will first traverse the indoor course overcoming obstacles, become engulfed by newly planted foliage as well as tackling our river rapids hole before encountering a baby dinosaur hatching from its egg! Quote ‘Families Fife’ at the ticket office to receive 2 for 1!

www.adventure-golf-island

12th February – 19th February

5th - 8th February Snow White On Ice Perth Concert Hall Stunning skating, ballet, gymnastics and aerial aerobatics combine to create a breathtaking and mesmerising fairytale experience.The world famous Russian Ice Stars return to take you on a magical journey to the heart of the best-loved fairytale of all time, Snow White, on ice!The original story of an enchanted mirror, a beautiful girl, the ultimate Prince Charming

www.familiesfife.co.uk

and a shiny red apple comes to life on ice, where incredible skating, ballet, circus skills, gymnastics and aerial aerobatics combine to create a breathtaking and mesmerising experience, starring Rustie Lee as the Fairy News Reporter.

www.horsecross.co.uk/whats-on/snow-white-ice Wednesday 11th to Friday 13th February Children’s Woodland Club, NE Fife A chance to build a den, light a fire, use tools,

Meet King Kong!

Come and meet the latest addition to Adventure Golf Island, King Kong! This 3 metre tall moving feature will welcome players into Europe’s first Indoor mini golf dome and provides families with a great photo opportunity! To celebrate if you quote ‘Families Fife’ at the ticket office you will receive 2 courses for the price of 1! www.adventure-golf-island.com 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 29 Families Fife | 15

Lauriston Nursery 165 Robertson Road Dunfermline Fife KY12 0BL

Tel: 01383 741900 | www.lauristonnursery.com 16 | Families Fife Issue 29

www.familiesfife.co.uk