Families Edinburgh September/October 2012

Free ISSUE 74 September/ October 2012

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

EDINBURGH DANCE ACADEMY Branches throughout Edinburgh and East Lothian

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

See us in the Pantomime at The Kings Theatre.

EXAM RESULTS 100% PASS RATE

0131 337 3402

SOCATOTS BIRTHDAY PARTIES FOR AGES 1-5

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

www.polarnopyret.co.uk

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

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

Book your free trial and/or block booking now!

www.familiesedinburgh.co.uk

Email - editor@familiesedinburgh.co.uk

Tel. 0131 622 0405

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Whats Inside 3–7 8 9 10 – 11 12 – 20 21 – 25 26 – 30 31

News and Views How to…Encourage Reading By Elizabeth Dolton Supporting Your Left Handed Child By Sarah Butters Clubs and Classes Listings Clubs and Classes News School News Out & About Competitions and Offers Editor: Sarah Adair editor@familiesedinburgh.co.uk 0131 622 0405 Keep up to date at www.familiesedinburgh.co.uk Follow us on Twitter @familiesedinbur Find us on Facebook Designer: Kenny Dickson

Next Issue: November/December Christmas, Shows, Santa and all things sparkly!

Booking deadline September 28th

Cover Information Classic Polarn O. Pyret Stripes Organic Cotton.

Red, White and Blue.

Sizes: 4m - 12 years. Our signature stripes are iconic in Swedish childrenswear.

The stripe has been part of our original baby and childrenswear collection since 1976 and was designed by Katarina af Klintberg and Gunilla Axén, world renowned Swedish textile designers. www.polarnopyret.co.uk

Look what’s coming to town!

Opening soon at Ocean Terminal, Edinburgh’s newest softplay centre Maddie & Mark’s Play Town.

In fact there’s so much more than softplay, there’s a Ball Shooter, Surf Rider and Zoopa Cannon. There’s even a mini supermarket, shoe shop and garage for the kids to explore.

From toddlers to tweenies, there are fun zones to keep them completely enthralled.

It’s a child’s paradise for party action too, packed with excitement and topped off with some delicious party food.

Situated on the 2nd floor of Ocean Terminal, with great views across the Firth of Forth and The Royal Yacht Britannia, the kid’s can fuel their imagination, you can relax and admire the view then you can all re-fuel with some tasty treats in the waterside café.

Maddie & Mark’s Play Town is bought to you by the clever people who own Maddie & Mark’s Shoes, they really do seem to understand what kids want!

To be one of the first to book your child’s party call 07791 843 939, and to find out more visit www.maddieandmarks.co.uk

Glow in the Park Royal Blind’s Annual Children’s Sponsored Walk, theme this year is Magic & Illusion, so magic something up to wear. You could help break the Guinness World Record for the “Largest Magic Lesson” so you could be a record breaker too!

This year it takes place at 5.30pm on Saturday 27th October at Fettes College, Edinburgh What you can expect from Glow in the Park: • Free goodie bag & medal for each child • The evening will be hosted by a Forth FM presenter • An indoor area to grab hot drinks and snacks • Take part in our toy raffle • Free glow in the dark face painting.

• Magic activities around the route adding to a fun walk.

Everyone must be registered before the event - £5 per child, 3 & under free & £2 per adult. For registration, more information and last year’s photos visit www.royalblind.org/glowinthepark

Meadows Nursery The Meadows is a small eco nursery run by a primary school teacher situated in the heart of the Meadows.

We care for children from 3 months to 5 years and we are in partnership with the City of Edinburgh Council for the provision of funded places.

We’re right behind Sciennes School next to the Sick Kids Hospital. If you would like to visit us please contact us on:

0131 667 5316 Meadows Nursery 5 Millerfield Place, EH9 1LW www.meadowsnursery.ik.org meadowsnursery@gmail.com

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Fab4babystars Anita Shepherd set up Fab4babystars in September last year.

“My eldest daughter helped me pick the fun and unique company name!

I was seeking a new part-time job but wished to be at home for our kids too.

I started to sell Soft Leather Baby Shoes online at first, they became very popular and orders started to progress” said Anita “Following the baby shoe success, I decided to purchase other baby items and chose Amazon to promote our products” Currently they have over 49 different kinds of baby bibs for sale on their website and the collection is still growing. By keeping the quality of the item high and the price low, they hope to attract customers who are looking for great quality at an affordable price. They also sell Summer Baby Clothes, Birthday Tee Shirts and Potty Training Pants.

“As a mum of two children, I use all our products at home as a test trial before it goes on sale. Our motto is - Fab 4 baby, at a fab cost 4 you - simple!"

WWW.FAB4BABYSTARS.co.uk

Polwarth Toddler Group

Yogabellies

Do you have time to open the Polwarth church hall on a Thursday afternoon to help the toddler group to continue?

Polwarth Toddler Group is looking for someone to help continue the Thursday afternoon group after the volunteers stepped down at the end of last year. The volunteer(s) would need to open up the hall at 2.30/3pm and lock it up again at 4.30/5pm? It would be run like the Tuesday morning group, where the parents/carers that attend, run the group themselves by getting out and putting away the toys. So all that is needed is a 'keyholder' - if you are interested please contact Shiefra on 07939 129954 or Caroline on 07947 355183

Yoga for gentle bumps and peaceful parenting!

Yogabellies are proud to offer a full spectrum of classes which are now available throughout Edinburgh. Classes such as prenatal yoga, postnatal mum & baby yoga, baby massage, toddler yoga and yoga for preschoolers!

Pre natal Yoga From 14 weeks Yoga postures to build strength and stamina for pregnancy and labour; breathing techniques and deep relaxation techniques to allow mums to remain calm and focused.

Post natal mum and Baby yoga All of the postures can be practiced with or without your baby, depending on how you prefer to focus. At any one time babies may be watching, joining in, sleeping or feeding. Many of the postures are mutually beneficial for mummy and baby!

Baby Massage birth to mobile YogaBellies offer Baby Massage for infants from newborn age until and also currently teach group classes, baby massage parties and one-to-one sessions as required.

Little Angels classes take over where our mum and baby yoga and baby massage classes finish off. These classes are for babies and toddlers who can now move around by themselves by crawling, walking, running, bumping etc.

Angel bear 3 -12. YogaBellies Angel Bear Yoga™ is an opportunity to join your child on this magical adventure – in this complete Yoga for Kids program!

Information on all classes can be found on www.yogabellies.co.uk To book your prenatal or postnatal yoga space contact Heather@yogabellies.co.uk Angel Bear & little Angels Elaine@yogabellies.co.uk Baby Massage cat@yogabellies.co.uk & Louise@yogabellies.co.uk

The Love Pets Scotland Show is back – bigger and better – in 2012! After the mammoth success of its first year, the show promises even more as a fantastic day out for anyone who loves pets. From dancing dogs and Scotland’s smallest horse to herding ducks and racing ferrets, Love Pets Scotland is an un-missable event for all the family. The show takes place on 1-2 September at the Royal Highland Centre, Ingliston.

Tickets are on sale now with great online are available discounts. Book yours today and make tracks to Love Pets Scotland. www.lovepetsshow.co.uk.

BabyCalm & ToddlerCalm Edinburgh

Workshops and Classes

Sarah Hulme MA MSc PhD CPsychol Mobile: 07717 040 821 Email: sarahhulme@babycalm.co.uk

Anne Young BSc RN CBMI MIFPA Mobile: 07811 073 202 Email: anne@babycalm.co.uk www.facebook.com/BabyCalmEdinburgh

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Edinburgh Callanetics

Callanetics is a non-impact exercise programme developed by Callan Pinckney which uses small, tiny, precise movements (pulses) to shape the body and produce visible results fast.

Classes take place at: Calton Centre 10 classes per week AM/PM Duncan Place Resource Centre Wednesday 6.30pm-7.30pm Melville Street - Tuesday 12noon Roxburghe Hotel Monday 12.15pm and 12noon Saughton Community Centre (starting 6th September) 6pm and 7pm Studio, Craiglea Drive, Morningside 31 classes on 7 days a week AM/PM karin@edinburgh-callanetics.co.uk www.edinburgh-callanetics.co.uk 0131 447 8414 or 07848 041070.

Gyrotonic at Edinburgh Body Tonic Gyrotonic exercise combines aspects of yoga, swimming, ballet, tai chi and gymnastics in a complete body conditioning class that is taught on The Gyrotonic Expansion System. The sessions are taught one-to-one and can be tailored to suit the needs of every individual.

“I had no idea what to expect of my Gyrotonic session but the hours spent hunched over a laptop were taking their toll on my back and shoulders so I wanted to give something different a try. After an hour with Rhona I felt taller and looser – unravelled!”

5-19 York Place, Edinburgh EH1 3EB T: 07810 234 618 E: info@edinburghbodytonic.co.uk www.edinburghbodytonic.co.uk

4 x 'Good' = Good News!!

Blossom Tree Children's Nursery, Edinburgh finally received its 1st Care Inspectorate grades and are proud to announce that we have received 4 'Good' quality grades after only being open 10 months. “ We are already looking forward to next year's inspection and raising our grades through good practice and our promise for continual development in creating an even happier, more child centered and educationally stimulating Nursery for the children to learn within” says Nursery Manager, Julie McMorrine. For further information about a place for your child visit www.blossomtree.org.uk, or to read our very first Care Inspection report visit www.sciswis.com

• Individual play therapy • Group play therapy • Filial Therapy (parent child relationship play) • Life story work • Clinical supervision & training for organisations 0131 454 9713 • Speech & Language playtherapybase@gmail.com Therapy www.playtherapybase.co.uk

Help your children love learning with Mathletics The award winning Mathletics program is helping millions of children enjoy maths and improve their results. The online learning resource contains thousands of interactive activities aligned to the Scottish maths curricula including the Curriculum for Excellence, from P1 to S4. Mathletics also adds a competitive dimension to learning, allowing children to compete against each other in live games of mental arithmetic in a completely safe, online environment.

Parents are able to set tasks for their children and closely monitor their progress through the Mathletics Parent Centre. Children also have access to Rainforest Maths, animated Times Tables and the Concept Search where they reach a deeper conceptual understanding through visual clues and interactive animations.

From personalising their learning environment to earning a place on the live World Hall of Fame, an array of rewards ensures that your child’s interest in maths continues to grow. www.mathletics.co.uk Telephone: 0117 370 1990 Email: customerservice@3plearning.co.uk

Crafty Cupcakes Crafty Cupcakes based in Edinburgh offer a full kid’s party package. Suitable for both girls and boys from 5 years upwards. There are various styles and themes to choose from. You will be shown the art of making flowers, love hearts, animals, butterflies, ghosts and ghouls and many more. They can visit your home or venue of your choice and the package is inclusive of all cupcakes, decoration and fondants. At the end of the party each child will have a presentation box of 4 truly memorable cupcakes. Crafty Cupcakes also cater for adults and again has themes to suit all types of events. Please call Sharlane to book or for further information on 0797 241 2237.

Crafty Cupcakes Cupcake Decorating Parties

• Various styles to choose • Presentation box of 4 to decorate and take home.

• Suitable for kids birthday parties etc. also available for adults groups.

To book/further info call 0797 241 2237

Yoga for gentle bumps and peaceful parenting!

• Prenatal Yoga • Postnatal Mum & Baby Yoga • Baby Massage • Toddler Yoga • Yoga for Preschoolers Classes throughout Edinburgh Information on all classes can be found on www.yogabellies.co.uk To book your prenatal or postnatal yoga space contact Heather@yogabellies.co.uk Angel Bear & little Angels Elaine@yogabellies.co.uk Baby Massage cat@yogabellies.co.uk & Louise@yogabellies.co.uk 5 FAMILIES EDINBURGH ISSUE 74

Thoughts from an Ex Teenager – Resilience as a Mindset

Taking the Weight off Your Mind, Creating Space for Your Solutions

For Teenagers • Solution Focused Coaching Empowering teens to grow their emotional strength, maturity and resilience. Helping them manage stress, growing confidence and self esteem.

For Adults • NLP Diploma for Personal and Professional Development NLP is the Technology of Achievement, Evidence based training to empower you with the tools you need. www.weightshedinternational.com eilidh@weightshedinternational.com 07968 260282

As parents what can we do to help nurture resilient mindsets? Here are some of the techniques which I find most useful 1. When a child gets upset or scared, we can teach them how to deal with it. For a child to keep a negative state going they need a new thought at least every 90 seconds to support it. So to break a negative train of thought and move them to a desired state, ask them to focus on how they would like to feel right now. Then ask them to remember the last time they had that better feeling and encourage them to go into that good memory.

2. Kids are great a knowing what they don’t want “I don’t want to fail my exams”, “I don’t want to let my parents down”. Thoughts like these can simply perpetuate the worry and anxiety. To counter act this, ask them what they do want instead. This will often help them realise that focusing on what they don’t want is preventing them finding a solution and feeling optimistic.

3. Give them a positive anchor. My eldest son loves to sleep and he can be so grumpy in the morning that the whole household is affected. To help him with this, he now has a wake up play list. This has a number of upbeat, happy, light hearted tracks of his choosing that he listens to when he needs to step out of bed on the right foot. Music is a brilliant way to change their frame of mind.

4. When they are being self critical, ask them if they were their own friend, what advice would they give themselves to improve things? This can be a great question, it reveals to them their inner capacity to help themselves, which boosts self esteem and confidence.

Teaching the next generation to take charge of negative moods gives them freedom from being at the mercy of worries and anxieties and develops resilience. These tools are practical and simple and most importantly, they work.

Eilidh Macdonald-Harte, Coach and Trainer, for courses on personal and professional development to maximise your results, visit www.weightshedinternational.com, taking the weight of the problem, creating space for your solutions.

Cakes and Crafts – does what it says on the tin!

Cakes and Crafts recently opened on North Musselburgh High Street. Tammy grew up in Musselburgh and now mum to two lovely girls she wanted to create a space where they could do things together. She wants everyone to be able to be able to try their hand at something creative and has craft activities ranging from cake decorating to Decopatch. Regular classes throughout the week for all abilities. Bookable space for parties of all ages. cakeandcrafts@hotmail.com 157 North High Street, Musselburgh, Scotland EH21 6AN

Real Foods Real Foods continues to support Scottish suppliers with the introduction of honey by John Mellis, one of a very small number of people who make their living keeping bees in Scotland. John has been producing quality honey on his farm in Dumfries for over 20 years. Those who have not previously tried honey from local producers are often surprised by the diverse flavours available, which reflect seasonal changes and the range of plants in the area that are currently in bloom. Available in-store or online www.realfoods.co.uk. Real Foods 37 Broughton Street Edinburgh EH1 3JU & 8 Brougham Street Edinburgh EH3 9JH.Tel: 0131 557 1911.

Play Therapy Base Nearly every day Maria came home from school saying she wasn’t good at anything and nobody liked her. Her teacher said she wasn’t confident at speaking in class and didn’t like working in groups.

Richard was doing well at school and was classed as a star pupil. At home, he got so angry that he broke his toys on a regular basis and frightened his little brother with his outbursts.

Sammie’s dog died. She reacted to this with intense sadness and withdrawal from the things she usually loved doing.

These are the kinds of issues they work with at Play Therapy Base. Children often go through difficult patches, meeting the challenges that growing up in the world presents. Most children meet these challenges with the support of those around them.

Sometimes, however, children get stuck and don’t bounce back so well. This can feel worrying, heartbreaking and exhausting to parents.

At Play Therapy Base, they have four qualified and registered play therapists who can help children when they are struggling. They work from their base in Dalkeith where they have a playroom offering different kinds of play materials to suit ages 3 – 14.

Talking therapies can be difficult for children. Asking a child to say what they feel like and put the problem into words is often asking too much. In play therapy, children show the therapist how they feel by making stories, creating artwork, enacting scenarios with puppets or small figures, or playing games. The therapist doesn’t ask lots of questions, and doesn’t direct the child what to play. The child plays freely and the therapist can join the child in playing about what is important or difficult for them. Playing is children’s way of thinking, learning and developing, making play therapy a powerful tool in helping children to feel better.

0131 454 9713 www.playtherapybase.co.uk

From noon till late

The George Hotel, Edinburgh Thursday 25th October

ur o m a l G

3 dedicated rooms The Glamour Pamper Room The Glamour Shopping Mall The Glamour Lounge

The ultimate pampering and shopping experience www.GlamourEdinburgh.com Facebook.com/TheMarketTreeEvents

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Back to school can cause anxieties to arise for many children.

A move of school, peer issues, learning challenges? The emotional well being of a child is crucial to learning and Kids NLP provides support for families in these circumstances, whatever the issue.

Knowing how to support your children can be challenging at times. Homework conflicts, reluctance to go to clubs, sullen moods or angry tantrums? Children don’t come with instruction manuals and what worked with one child may not be applicable with their sibling. Parent consultations & workshops. Individual session for children, all available throughout the year. New - Training for Professionals working with children Contact Karen 07837930714 www.Kidsnlpscotland.co.uk

Are you returning to the corporate world after a Career break? Nervous about job interviews?

Fiona knows how scary those interviews can be, especially when you've been out of the workplace for a while, perhaps looking after your family. Most employers now use a structured interview process including competency based interviews, presentations, psychometric profiling and ability tests to find their ideal candidates – it's no longer just a chat about your CV. “I can help you – I have 16 years' recruitment expertise including Financial Services, IT, Consultancy, Media and Recruitment Agencies. I'm totally independent, degree qualified, and certified in occupational testing2”.

Using an informal personalised one-to-one session Fiona can help you: • understand and prepare for a range of interview formats • analyse the job description or advert to anticipate likely questions • present the best possible image to a potential employer So if you have an interview coming up and would like help, please contact Fiona Anderson in Edinburgh on 07900 974421, or go to www.anderson.gb.com, or email fiona@anderson.gb.com for more details.

Playdays Nursery School Opening September 2012 In June 2010 St Margaret's School, one of Edinburgh's leading private schools, founded in 1890, sadly had to close its doors. The building has been acquired by Playdays Kindergarten in East Suffolk Road, Newington who have been successfully operating their nursery for the past 12 years. The nursery was praised by the HMIE inspectors and was featured in the Evening News in August 2006.

The large stone built detached building at 4 East Suffolk Road (former St Margaret's School) has been sympathetically refurbished to a children's day nursery and will open its doors in September 2012. The nursery has excellent facilities and bright, spacious airy playrooms, a large soft play area and a large outdoor astro turfed play area approximately 200sq metres. To find out more information email iplaydays@hotmail.co.uk or call 0131 662 0010

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for ides u g quick family e l p Sim nd your you a

How to encourage reading

By Elisabeth Dolton

Step one – Set up reading time every day Decide when and where a reading session will take place and keep it. 10 minutes is fine.

Encourage your child to read aloud. They don’t have to get every word right, and praise them often. If they are discouraged by their own reading, you read aloud. The pleasure of listening to you read can restore their enthusiasm. Offer to read every other sentence, page, chapter, and have conversations and discussions about the content.

Make it fun. Children love sound effects, different voices, pulling faces.

Step two – During reading time Introduce the bookmark. Stop after a few pages and pick up where you left off at another time.

Provide an accessible, special place for children to keep their own books Use special incentives, e.g. an extra 5 minutes to finish a chapter, a promise to take them to see the film of the book, sticker charts and certificates Notice what attracts your children's attention, even if it’s only pictures, and build on that interest. Gather more information on the same subject.

Listen to audio books (in the car too). These help develop visualisation, a critical pre-reading skill.

Let them choose their own books. Don’t worry the books are too young or too easy, early reading success can came from several "non-traditional" sources such as comics.

Buy a special notebook and record all the books they have read, add their thoughts and a star rating.

Step three – See the teacher and judge where they are Find out what reading program the school follows, get to know the levels, and aim to supplement the program at home.

Prepare a timetable. Know what level your child is at and the next, with some idea of when it can be achieved. There is no race to be the first to read, it just puts things into context.

Step four – Plan specific reading linked activities Extend your child's positive reading experiences, e.g. If they enjoyed reading about dinosaurs, visit the natural history museum.

Encourage activities that require reading, e.g. read a recipe, instructions, and directions, play games that require reading, use a reference book to look up something you have seen.

Visit the library and give your child their own library card. They can choose their own library book or listen in on story-time.

Step five – Be a role model Let your children see you reading for pleasure. Read aloud everyday items - menus, road signs, food labels.

Give books as gifts.

Leave books, magazines, and colourful catalogues around your home.

Write short notes for your child to read.

Reading opens up new worlds to your children and gives them a chance to use their imaginations. There are many ways to encourage your child to read, and the best ways always include participation on your part.

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Supporting Your Left Handed Child

Sarah Butters is mum to a left handed daughter. She takes a look at some of the most common problems faced by left handers and some tips for helping them out.

Messy Handwriting If you have a child who is left handed, chances are they haven’t been taught to write. Most are simply allowed to use their left hand.

As the right handed parent of a left handed child I admit to having that same attitude.

Left handers push the pen across the page, whereas their right handed friends will pull. This can lead to smudging and untidy work which in turn leads to anxiety on the part of the child.

At an early stage a left handed child should be encouraged to master the correct handwriting position and paper placement to avoid problems as the writing assignments increase.

The paper should be rotated to 45 degrees with the hand and wrist below the writing. Any pen needs to be held in a strong 3 point grip. In Early Years this can be supported with a triangular bodied pencil or a moulded grip around a regular pencil. If your child can get into good habits from the start of their school life, they will avoid problems when they graduate to a fountain pen and longer writing assignments.

Hook Grip Some left handers use a hooked grip to avoid the problem of smudging, and angle the pen in the same way a right hander would. This causes more problems than it solves. The hook grip becomes more uncomfortable the more you write. It leads to an overtight grip and aching hands which in turn lead to messy handwriting. The wrist should always be below the writing line. If your child is developing a hook grip, consider introducing a sloped surface to resolve the problem.

Elbow Collision At some point your child will have to share a desk and if they’re left handed this can be a problem.

“I always end up banging elbows” explains my 9 year old daughter.

“That makes my writing messy.”

You child should always be placed at the left hand side of a shared desk or next to another left hander. This gives them plenty of space to get their paper positioned correctly and avoid knocking elbows with a right handed neighbour.

Mirror Writing I remember being hugely concerned when I discovered that my daughter had completed an assignment using mirror writing. She had begun her words on the right hand side of the page and written from right to left. It’s common in left handed children and when you think about it, it makes sense. If they are sat next to a right hander, they are simply mirroring their work. Encourage them to start on the left hand side of the page by placing a coloured star in the margin as a reminder.

Computers Most ICT rooms are set up with the computer mice on the right hand side of the keyboard. This gives left handed children an automatic disadvantage because they either need to move the mouse or attempt or use their right hand. Don’t presume the teacher knows your child is left handed. Be sure to let all the staff involved with your child know they’re a left hander and will need a different workstation set up.

The ‘Right’ Equipment Many left handed children learn the basics with the wrong equipment. Give a left handed child some right handed scissors and they’ll find the blade is upside down and so they can’t see the line they are cutting. It means the child has less control and think of themselves as messy. This can be a real problem in the Early Years.

Check your school has left handed scissors to offer your child. Ambidextrous scissors don’t exist – trust me!

As they progress to writing, shiny barreled pens are to be avoided. Make sure whatever pen you choose has a good grip so it’s easy to hold even when hands get hot and tired. Left handed fountain pens are available from www.anythingleft-handed.co.uk. They’re worth the investment for older children as the have an angled nib.

Useful Resources

White Boards They’re a teacher’s best friend but a left handers worst nightmare. White boards and chalk boards are a great learning tool in the modern classroom - pupils can get rid of mistakes easily without using endless pieces of paper. However, if you’re left handed you can end up erasing as you write. Good grip and placement of the board gives left handers half a chance.

However if your child isn’t completing white board work quickly or neatly enough, it may not be their fault.

www.anythingleft-handed.co.uk has some great left handed guidance sheets for parents and teachers. It’s also a super source of left handed equipment. www.lefthandedchildren.org another great website with some top tips for parents looking to support their left handed child.

Playdays Nursery School

(Former St Margaret’s School)

OPENING SEPTEMBER 2012 • • • • • • • • •

Private day care nursery Friendly loving care for your child Experienced and qualified staff Open 8 am – 6pm Children from 3 months – 5years Pre-School funding available – childcare vouchers accepted Large outdoor play area approx 200 sq metres Large soft play Experienced nursery operators for 12 years

4 East Suffolk Road, Edinburgh EH16 5PJ

0131 662 0010

iplaydays@hotmail.co.uk

COME AND BOUNCE AROUND AT EDINBURGH’S

NEWEST TRAMPOLINE, ACTIVITY & PARTY CENTRE

Unit 2-3, 109 Restalrig Road, Edinburgh EH6 7NY Tel: 0131 553 7676 www.clownaround.me.uk 9 FAMILIES EDINBURGH ISSUE 74

Music

In those days there wasn’t any other option – now I could take my pick from Kick boxing or Knitting, Spanish or Sports, Pottery or Piano.

Given the massive choice how do you decide what club or class to book your child into? Well, here at Families Edinburgh we’re always keen to help so we’ve filled the following pages with lots more information clubs and classes listed on these pages.

Every class offers a benefit to your child – whether they learn a new skill, discover a talent, grow in confidence or simply have fun.

Here are our completely up-to-date listings for some amazing local clubs and classes for your children.

Edinburgh Young Musicians. 0131-226-3392. www.e-y-m.org.uk Jack And Jill – Music Fun For Tots 0131 667 9664 www.jackandjill-music.co.uk Jo Jingles 0131 620 3282(East) or 0131 443 4196 (West) or 01875 616607 (East Lothian) www.jojingles.com Mainly Music 0131 315 4616 www.comelybankchurch.com Mini Music Makers 0141 287 2856 www.nycos.co.uk/mini-music-makers Monkey Music 0131 669 6004 (Edinburgh South) or 0131 260 9667 (Edinburgh North/West) www.monkeymusic.com Move2Music www.move2music.co.uk.

Music Bugs Edinburgh East 0844 822 1156 www.musicbugs.co.uk/classes/edinburgheast Portobello Music School 0131 669 1120 www.portobellomusicschool.com St Mary’s Music School 0131 538 7766 www.st-marys-music-school.co.uk String Babies 07722 831 224 www.stringbabies.com

Honey Pot Ceramics • Paint you own pottery • Make your own cosmetics • Design your own jewellery • Try out other craft activities • Party Packages • Messy Play for Pre-school children For details of workshops and holiday activities visit: www.honeypotceramics.com or call us on 0131 333 6348 Based at the EICA, Ratho, South Platt Hill, EH28 8AA Open 7 days 10 - 5pm - other hours by arrangement Open late Thursday

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October Holiday Club 15th to 19th and the 22nd October

Active Bodies A-Star Sports 0845 459 2210 www.a-starsports.co.uk Big World 07796677059 www.bigworldadventures.org/preschool Enjoy-a-ball 08452 26 26 94 www.enjoy-a-ball.com Edinburgh Leisure www.edinburghleisure.com Enjoy Leisure www.enjoyleisure.co.uk Fencing Fun www.fencingfun.co.uk Gymini 0131 334 3657 www.gymini.co.uk Little Ninjas 0800 028 9320 www.little-ninjas.co.uk Physi-Ball 08452 26 26 94 www.enjoy-a-ball.com Rugby Tots 0845 313 3252 www.rugbytots.co.uk Socatots 07923 005534 www.socatots.org/edinburgh Transgression Park www.transgressionpark.com Tumbletots 01875 819966 (Edinburgh East) or 0131 336 1234 (Edinburgh West) www.tumbletots.com Turtle Tots 07964 840 049 www.turtletots.com YogaBellies - www.yogabellies.co.uk

Dance Angela Watson School of Dance 0131 661 9590 www.angelawatsonschoolofdance.co.uk Ceilidh Kids 0131 667 8898 www.ceilidhkids.com Dance for All 0131 226 5533 www.danceforall.co.uk Dancebase 0131 225 5525 www.dancebase.co.uk Dynam-nic Dance 07545 551271 www.dndance.co.uk Edinburgh Dance Academy 0131 337 3402 www.edinburghdanceacademy.co.uk Lothian Dance Academy 0131 669 9073 Step It Up Dance 07428 110 135 www.stepitupdance.co.uk Waterfront Dance Studio 07772 504958 www.waterfrontdancestudio.co.uk

Theatre arts Helen O’ Grady 0131 667 0939 www.helenogrady.co.uk The Drama Studio 0131 453 3284 www.thedramastudio.com

Arts and Crafts Artroom 32 0131 553 6798 www.artroom32.co.uk Crafts & Cakes 07796 942 514 Doodle and Splat 0794 282 5114 www.doodleandsplat.co.uk Doodles 0131 229 1399 www.doodlesscotland.co.uk Honey Pot Ceramics 0131-333-6348 www.honeypotceramics.com Kids Knit 07943 367314 www.kidsknit.co.uk Kiss the Fish 0131 332 8912 www.kissthefishstudios.com Messy Munchkins 07876 542492 www.messymunchkins.co.uk Potter Around 01506 238961 www.potteraround.co.uk The Imagination Workshop www.theimaginationworkshop.co.uk

School Support Explore 0131 332 3300 (Blackhall) or 0131 337 7401 (Murrayfield) www.explorelearning.org.uk Kb-Insights 0783 793 0714 www.kb-insights.co.uk Kip McGrath 0131 610 6110 www.kipmcgrath.co.uk Kumon 0131 466 9235 (Morningside), 0131 669 9116 (Portobello) or 0131 315 3025 (Ravelston) or 01506 884 894 (Currie) or 01875 870 866 (Haddington) www.kumon.co.uk Ravivworks 07512311317 www.ravivworks.co.uk Step Ahead 0131 441 3603 or 01383 624599 www.stepaheadtuition.com Toucan 0131 623 2212 www.toucantutors.co.uk Whizzkids 0131 447 5893 www.whizzkids.uk.com

Languages Spanish Amigos 0131 510 0328 www.spanishamigos.co.uk

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MUSIC

EDINBURGH YOUNG MUSICIANS Edinburgh Young Musicians’ Saturday morning classes begin their fifteenth year on September 8th 2012. EYM’s 300 pupils are now well-established in the modern and spacious facilities at St. Thomas of Aquins’ High School in Chalmers Street near Tollcross, having moved there last year. Musical Play classes for children in their final pre-school year and P1 are open to children with no musical experience, as are P2 Musical Workshop classes, which form a year’s course designed to prepare children to join one of EYM’s beginner instrumental classes or choir.

Musical Foundations classes, new this term, are for children in P3 and P4 and are being offered at two levels, both for beginners with no musical experience, and for those wishing to develop skills learned in Musical Workshop classes. String orchestras, choirs, recorder groups, chamber music and musicianship classes are open to older children with suitable musical experience. www.e-y-m.org.uk. 0131-226-3392.

JACK AND JILL Are you looking for a unique music class to awaken your child’s love for music?

Jack and Jill –Music Fun for Tots is a local, independent business which has been running for nearly 20 years. The classes are run by a qualified music teacher who passionately believes in the positive value of live musical experience from an early age.

The classes aim to give your child opportunities to participate in a varied, flexible and enjoyable programme of themed musical activities including listening to live music, moving and dancing, singing new and familiar songs and handling a wide range of musical instruments.

Parents say: Jack and Jill offers music on different instruments with a fantastic qualified teacher who really shows an interest in every single child’.

‘The content of each lesson is excellent’.

‘This has been quite simply the best pre-school activity my daughter and I have been to. I cannot recommend these music classes highly enough and really feel that it has set my daughter up to enjoy music throughout her life’. www.jackandjill-music.co.uk info@jackandjill-music.co.uk

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JO JINGLES Jo Jingles has been captivating babies and children in Edinburgh since 2002 and we are looking forward to the new term. Our baby classes for little ones from 3 months continue to be very popular with some free classes available in all areas for babies up to 6 months. We offer age specific classes up to age 5 and use a mixture of familiar songs and some great new ones to maximise each child’s learning experience. We use instruments, parachutes, pom poms, puppets and much more and children play and dance their way through class, finding their voice and a rhythm to move to. Parents say their children love our classes and they enjoy them too!

Sibling discounts are available and there is no charge for younger siblings until the term after their first birthday. Jo Jingles classes offer a quality experience and are great value for money. Parties also available. www.jojingles.com/edinburghwest

MAINLY MUSIC A group of mums from St Stephen's Comely Bank Church are starting up a mainly music group in September. There are over 500 mainly music groups worldwide but this is the first one in Edinburgh! The aim of mainly music is to provide a fun, interactive environment where children (0-5) develop skills to enhance their pre-school education, through the use of music, rhythm and rhyme with the participation of a parent or carer.

The group will meet on Wednesdays (during term-time) from 10-11am with a 30 minute music session followed by followed by 30 minutes of play time while the mums and carers enjoy coffee/tea with some fresh baking. Cost is £2.50 per family per session.

See www.comelybankchurch.com for more information.

Edinburgh/Lothians 0131 441 3603

HQ Fife 01383 62 45 99

Kb-Insights

Offering a range of interven ons To overcome barriers to learning Working Memory Training

Kb-Insights Visit - You tube link to see demo

Cogmed: Cogmed RM Demonstra on

**Now offering Cogmed ** For those where learning is difficult due to short term working memory – an issue for many Dyslexics – all ages Contact Karen 07837930714 www.Kb-Insights.co.uk

PLAY, LISTEN AND LEARN AT MINI MUSIC MAKERS Families across Edinburgh and the Lothians can join in the fun as Mini Music Makers begins a brand new block in August.

Each 40-minute session will explore rhythm and song through interactive singing games and rhymes, using puppets and simple percussion instruments to bring the music to life.

Research has shown that engaging children with music at this early stage can aid child development in areas such as numeracy, speech and language and concentration.

These weekly interactive musical sessions for 0 – 5 year olds and their parents/carers will run from August to October 2012 and are available in Bathgate, Dalkeith, Edinburgh (Central), Edinburgh (Leith), Mid Calder, Lamancha and Linlithgow.

Places in all classes are allocated on a first come first served basis. Book your place by calling 0141 287 2856 or email admin@nycos.co.uk. Find out more about Mini Music Makers at www.nycos.co.uk/mini-music-makers.

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New group starting in September for parents and children 0-5 Wednesdays at 10am

St Stephen's Comely Bank Church see www.comelybankchurch.com or call 315 4616

MONKEY MUSIC

PORTOBELLO MUSIC SCHOOL

Monkey Music is the award winning preschool music class which operates throughout Edinburgh. With a progressive curriculum for children from 3 months 5 years Monkey Music has been the backbone of many children's start in music education. Our classes are full of fun, with teachers who inspire and help the children's confidence to grow.

Monkey Music opens new venues from August We are now delighted to be opening classes in North Merchiston on a Monday morning, Cramond and Comely Bank on a Thursday mornings and new Saturday morning classes at Murrayfield.

Please visit the website www.monkeymusic.co.uk for up-to-date information. Come and book a free trial for the new term and watch your child's musical interest and ability flourish under Monkeys watchful eye!

Contact Rachel Huggins at comelybank.corstorphine@monkeymusic.co.uk or Tel: 0131 260 9667.

New classes will also be starting in Marchmont St Giles Church on Friday mornings. An Open Day is being held to celebrate the launch of classes at this new venue on Friday 24th August when free taster sessions will be on offer. To book in for a taster or the new term contact Alison Rankin at morningside.pentland@monkeymusic.co.uk or Tel: 0131 669 6004.

Portobello Music School is delighted to announce a new programme of music classes for Babies and Toddlers with accompanying adults. Young children love music, puppets, bouncing and tickling games, rhymes, singing books, simple instruments and spending time with their carer just having fun.

In our baby and toddler classes we combine all of these elements to make varied, fun filled sessions, which introduce all of the basics of music making. These classes are the start of your child's musical journey and progress naturally into our programme of creative music classes at pre-school, P1 and P2 level. From this beginning, group instrumental lessons follow in P3 where children can choose to learn from a variety of instruments including guitar, piano, drums/percussion, strings and woodwind. Children can also study solo singing and join one of our choirs or many music groups which currently includes: woodwind, guitar, string and rock/pop ensembles. Children can join the music school at any age from birth to teens and everything in between.

To find out more and/or to enroll please visit www.portobellomusicschool.com or tel: 0131 669 1120

MOVE 2 MUSIC “It is nothing less than lunacy to set a child to study a musical instrument before he has been trained to appreciate rhythm and distinguish sounds.” So said musician, composer and teacher Emile Jacques-Dalcroze (1865-1950) who developed a method of music education that incorporates movement, aural training (singing and hearing) and improvisation.

The Dalcroze approach is embedded into music education in many countries, often running before and alongside instrumental instruction. Currently, move2music provides the only opportunity to learn music the Dalcroze way in Scotland. Why not come along to try a FREE CLASS at the OPEN DAY on SATURDAY 25th AUGUST? Monica Wilkinson will be delighted to welcome you and your child(ren).

See www.move2music.co.uk for more details.

STRING BABIES® Stringbabies is a system of teaching violin, viola and cello to very young children which is becoming popular throughout the UK. The approach has gained a reputation for enabling children as young as 3 years of age to read and understand written music effectively and has also been used to help improve music literacy with older children and adults as well as special needs students.

Developed by cellist Kay Tucker 8 years ago, Stringbabies has been adopted by many teachers as well as two major music services in England. A huge emphasis is placed on learning through play, singing and composing. For the very young, lessons include lots of fun games and toys as well, ensuring that Stringbabies lessons are a happy experience. There are now teachers in Scotland (Edinburgh and Falkirk).

For more information about Stringbabies, look at the website www.stringbabies.com

ST MARY'S MUSIC SCHOOL

MUSIC BUGS

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

Ballet • Tap Modern • Jazz FRIDAY CLASSES now held at Craiglockhart Tennis & Leisure Centre

Contact Nicky to book your

07545 551271

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

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Come and join Music Bugs East Edinburgh. Our music and singing classes are fun and stimulating and are suitable for babies, toddlers and preschoolers. Our informal, play based sessions allow and encourage young children to develop, grow and explore the world around them through music and song. Each class is full of exciting and colourful props and puppets which engage the children’s attention and bring our sessions to life. Children love our counting songs, finger rhymes, action songs, knee bouncers and interacting with their grown-ups in a relaxed environment.

We have a range of classes suitable for all ages, including our multi-sensory Baby Bugs classes for babies from birth to 12 months.

To book a free taster session in our new term, please contact Hilary today on 0844 822 1156 or email hilary@musicbugs.co.uk.

Please take a look at our website for details of our current classes: www.musicbugs.co.uk/classes/edinburgheast

St Mary's Music School’s Open Day is on Saturday 6 October, 2.30 – 5.00. See the school in action, including choir, orchestra, chamber music, jazz and Scottish traditional music. Find out about full-time places for talented instrumentalists, composers and singers, aged 9 – 19, with Scottish Government funding up to full fees. Learn about being a chorister at St Mary’s Cathedral, educated at St Mary’s Music School.

Saturday Morning Music Classes for children aged 4 – 11 start up again on 15 September. Taster sessions are available for children to meet the teacher and try out an instrument. For the coming session, subject to demand, we are offering some “rare breeds” in addition to our usual instruments, Singing, Theory and Kodály classes. “Rare breeds” are Viola, Mini-bass, Oboe, Clarineo (a baby clarinet), Clarinet, Bassoon, French Horn, Trumpet and the “one-man-band” instrument, the Accordion. www.st-marys-music-school.co.uk

ACTIVE

BODIES A-Star Sports Voted by parents as Best New Activity for Chilrden in the What’s on 4 Junior Awards 2012, A-Star Sports has had a really successful summer programme operating in Edinburgh with over 1000 places filled. We are re-booking for our weekly classes now and would love to offer every child the chance to join our award winning programme. Following on from the successful London 2012 Olympic games, let’s see if we can inspire the next generation of sports stars! This starts out with the chance to enjoy sports in a fun caring environment which A-Star Sports promote! Contact A-Star Sports on 0845 459 2210 or take a look at www.a-starsports.co.uk

BIG WORLD After successfully running Nature Play and Nurture demonstration projects in East and Midlothian for three years we're looking forward to sharing the changing seasons and nature play possibilities with young children (4+) within the wildlife-rich Hermitage of Braid local nature reserve.

Accompanying parents welcome.

We aim for children to: • feel nurtured and confident during nature play sessions • establish a meaningful connection with nature • experience a sense of community and opportunities for social play • become skilled in nature play • experience opportunities to develop skills in the assessment of risk and to challenge their physical skills • gain a sense of the feeling of health and well being that comes from spending time in the outdoor environment Session length Sessions will last 2 1/2 hours from 9 to 11.30 am and 12.30 to 3 pm.

A healthy snack and drink will be provided. £15 per session.

New members can book a single trial session initially. Booking is in blocks of five sessions after the first session. Please contact us for more information. www.bigworldadventures.org/preschool info@bigworldadventures.org; 07796677059

ENJOYLEISURE If you’re looking for a coached activity in East Lothian, enjoyleisure has got everything from Archery to Zumbatomic! Infants, children and teens alike can discover a world of sport, play and leisure activities on their doorstep. Swimming Lessons, Gym-Monkeys, Gymnastics, Trampolining, Basketball, Badminton, Judo, Karate, Tae Kwon Do, Climbing, Street Dance, Mini Tennis, Multi-Sports … the list goes on and on!

As well as a number of coached sessions, many Clubs and Organisations make use of the enjoyleisure sports facilities offering children and adults alike a vast range of after school and evening pursuits. For further details of the facilities and activities available, please visit www.enjoyleisure.com.

GYMINI - A FOUNDATION FOR SPORT GYMINI coaches are qualified British Gymnastic coaches who are involved in a variety of other sports as well as gymnastics. Our unique foundation programme based on activity and fun will stimulate our GYMINI’S to develop the major motor skills such as rolling, running, balancing, jumping, swinging and climbing. Using scaled down gymnastic equipment our GYMINI’S progress into recreational gymnasts.

Our structured programme including strength and flexibility allows our GYMINI’S to continue to use their skills to enhance their experience in all sports.

GYMINI is a private enterprise unique to Edinburgh and not a franchise.

For further information check out our website www.gymini.co.uk or contact FIONA JENNI or SHEILA 0131 334 3657

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LITTLE NINJAS The Little Ninjas programme is fantastic way for young children to get the best from Martial Arts training.

Each work they cover a particular skill such as balance and develop this as well as the martial arts techniques. After 8-10 weeks they sit a test and are awarded their belt. As they progress the material becomes more challenging and their knowledge of martial arts increases. The programme is fantastic as it is game based so the children are constantly through learning through fun games.

There are classes running throughout the week and a Saturday morning.

All have spaces in them and you can start at any time. A new class will be launching in September on a Thursday.

For more info visit www.little-ninjas.co.uk or call 0800 028 9320 and speak to Marcus.

Fun, funky and educational arts & crafts classes for children.

Painting, drawing, sculpture, model making and much more!

Arty parties and holiday workshops also available 0131 553 6798 / 07931 513 815 www.artroom32.co.uk

PHYSI-BALL

TUMBLE TOTS

Enjoy-a-Ball has been running in the UK for over 15 years for children aged 3+ Physi-Ball is geared towards children who are between the ages of 18 months – 3 years old. Although there are strong links with the main Enjoy-aBall programme, the Physi-Ball is in fact different but hugely complementary. During the programme children will: • Work to develop their core stability through a series of fun and interactive exercises which involve the use of a mini ‘Swiss Ball’ • Work to develop their, balance, jumping, hand-eye coordination, rhythm awareness and cognitive ability, which includes following instructions.

• Work to develop ‘left and right coordination and midline crossing ability’ – an essential part of development that helps children to develop the ability to engage both halves of the brain • Work to develop an interest in group participation.

Crucially, whilst your children will be developing many vital fundamental motor and life skills they will also be having a huge amount of fun in the process!

08452 26 26 94 www.enjoy-a-ball.com

Our Fun activities and specially scaled equipment encourage and develop agility, balance, climbing and co-ordination skills. Our music, actions songs and rhymes develop language and social skills.

Tumble Tots Edinburgh West is excited to offer classes 6 days a week at locations convenient to you! Our newest classes at The Lifecare Centre, Stockbridge, start at six months and go up to school age.

Other centres are Corstorphine, Inverleith , Murrayfield, Queensferry and Cramond. Saturday classes are also available.

Call April on 0131 336 1234 to book or book online at www.tumbletots.com/Edinburgh-west.

Tumble Tots Edinburgh East,. Classes with availability for children from 6 months to 5 years in Morningside, Fairmilehead, Haddington and Marchmont.

Gymbabes class at Haddington on a Thursday for children from 6 months to walking confidently.

Gymbobs class on a Friday afternoon in Morningside (after October break). For ages 5 to 7 years. This class follows on from Tumble Tots with climbing, balance, agility and co-ordination but introduces team games, relay races and more upper body exercises.

Please call Jo to book your child into a trial session or for further information on 01875 819966

RUGBY TOTS Rugbytots is a highly energetic play programme for boys and girls aged between 2 and 7 years old. We are now running throughout Edinburgh & the Lothians with many weekday and weekends classes. If we are not currently covering an area you would like, please get in touch and we will do our best to get one of our qualified rugby coaches to you. One mum recently commented 'Many thanks for everything you have taught us over the last few years, rugbytots has by far been the best activity that we have taken part in and worth every penny for the range of skills and the discipline you have given him' 0845 313 3252 www.rugbytots.co.uk

SOCATOTS Socatots continue to run classes around Edinburgh and East Lothian throughout the year. With the Summer excitement of Euro 2012 and The Olympics, there has never been a better time to get your child involved and start learning about football.

We always offer free trials so parents and potential new members can come along to sample a session of Socatots. At Socatots we learn the basics of football, helping a child understand and football and helping lay the foundations for a more complete footballer of the future.

If you would like more information, please contact Jamie on 07923 005534 or email j.smith@socatots.com

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TURTLE TOTS Teach your tot to swim, tone up and help vulnerable children Turtle Tots, an innovative swimming programme that teaches babies and toddlers to swim while giving parents a workout, is coming to Edinburgh this autumn.

Mums-to-be can join the classes before their baby is born through the Turtle Tums aquanatal yoga programme, while Turtle Tots classes teach parents to swim with their baby above and below the water.

And Turtle Tots Edinburgh will donate a percentage of every class fee to NSPCC Scotland!

As well as having a really special time with your child and building potentially life-saving skills, the programme has been written in conjunction with personal trainers so mums (and dads!) can burn up to 250 calories in a class!!

All classes take place in warm water pools, are carefully structured and progressive, and are taught by fully qualified teachers.

Classes start in September at Novotel, Lauriston Place. To find out more contact Karina at edinburgh@turtletots.com or 07964 840 049. You can also find Turtle Tots Edinburgh on www.turtletots.com, facebook and twitter.

DANCE ANGELA WATSON SCHOOL OF DANCE Angela Watson School of Dance is a well established dance school in the heart of Colinton and Fairmilehead with classes for children and adults in RAD ballet, tap, modern and hip hop there is also a wonderful nursery ballet class for the under 5s and a Melody Bear classes for parents and toddlers. Last term saw many pupils perform at The Big Dance as part of the Olympic celebrations, at the 18th Century Melville Castle and in Die Fledermaus. 105 pupils gained high merits and distinctions in their RAD ballet exams. We will be performing at the Churchill Theatre in our School show in October and we plan to perform at Euro Disney in the new year.

For more information please visit the website: www.angelawatsonschoolofdance.co.uk

CEILIDH KIDS Looking for a way to have fun with your pre-schooler? Come and have a dance together at CeilidhKids! Family-friendly Scottish dancing - jump, skip, clap and twirl to the music! Weekly family afternoon classes at different venues in the city, with a new Friday morning class starting this term. Sessions aimed at 3-5 year olds, with wee brothers and sisters also welcome. We also run family ceilidh events to celebrate your special occasion.

For more details go to www.ceilidhkids.com email ceilidhkids@ceilidhkids.com or phone Caroline on 0131 667 8898. See you soon for a dance!

DANCE FOR ALL This autumn, Dance For All will introduce new Street Dance Classes with French choreographer David Aing, AKA Boogalock: Fridays 4.45pm-5.30pm for 10-13yrs and 5.30pm-6.45pm for 13yrs+. David has been performing, teaching and competing in dance battles around Europe, working with organisations including Y Dance, Company Fierce & JD Sport and is a tutor on our full-time course. Autumn term runs from the 15th August to 10th October with weekly child & teen classes from 2 ½ years upwards in RAD Ballet, ISTD Tap, ISTD Modern, Jazz, Street, Contemporary and SDS Spanish dance. These are joined by numerous adult classes, including the popular Drop-In Ballet from beginner to advanced levels and the full-time Professional Stage Dance & Dance Teacher Training Course which is unique to Scotland. For timetables, booking forms, photo galleries and more, log onto www.danceforall.co.uk or call the office on 0131 226 5533.

DYNAM-NIC DANCE

RAD Trained Teachers RAD Ballet Classes Graded & Vocational

Dynam-nic dance is a fresh and fun dance school that offers classes to children from the age 18 months up to 18 years. Children under the age of 3 enjoy learning the basics of dance along with a parent or guardian joining in our adventures! From age 3 upwards, students have the opportunity to learn ballet, tap, modern, jazz and street dance.

Various classes for all ages take place throughout the week at Craiglockhart Tennis centre on Colinton Road. Dynamnic uses an alternative fun and relaxed approach to teaching dance which leaves student desperate for the next class!!

We also offer dance workshops, one off classes and birthday parties. Whatever your requirements Dynam-nic will strive to meet your needs. For class details please visit our website at www.dndance.co.uk For any enquiries please contact Nicky at nicky@dndance.co.uk or call 07545 551271

EDINBURGH DANCE ACADEMY After ten years of dancing, acting and teaching overseas, RAD Examiner Julie Mitchell created Edinburgh Dance Academy. Alongside classes in ballet, modern, jazz, tap and hip hop, EDA also has its own Edinburgh Dance Company.

In 2004 Jenni Inglis, a former pupil, joined EDA and, as Assistant Artistic Director, choreographs The Company and Performance Groups with great success. Most recently EDA was invited to perform in the very first Dance Proms at the Royal Albert Hall. We are also delighted to say that this will be our 12th year providing the juvenile and student dancers for the Pantomime at the Kings Theatre. All pupils over the age of 5 are invited to audition for this.

The Academy, voted “Best Dance School in Edinburgh”, has studios throughout Edinburgh and Lothians.

Please call 0131 337 3402 for more information. www.edinburghdanceacademy.co.uk

Ballet - Modern - Jazz - Tap - Hiphop - Nursery Ballet

Classes from 3 years to adult - Fairmilehead - Colinton - Firhill Excellent Royal Academy of Dance exam results 0131 6619590 07792152966 info@angelawatsonschoolofdance.co.uk www.angelawatsonschoolofdance.co.uk

STEP IT UP DANCE Step It Up Dance is a fun & funky school of dance with classes in Breakdance, Hip Hop, Street Dance and Cheerleading.

Step It Up Dance work with children and young people all over Edinburgh to increase their enjoyment of dance, boost their confidence and simply create great fun dance classes they will want to return to week after week. With classes for Toddlers, Pre-schoolers & Primary-age kids running across the city there’s bound to be a class to suit you!

Step It Up Dance parties are also a popular choice. Parties are available in many dance styles, are fun, unique and affordable so why not book one today? Feedback so far shows that customer satisfaction is extremely high with 100% of parents saying they would recommend a Step It Up Dance party to friends.

Step It Up Dance – for healthy, happy bodies and minds. Also available: Step It Up Dance Parties! Fun, unique & affordable - get in touch! www.stepitupdance.co.uk / 07428 110 135/ www.facebook.com/StepItUpDance

TUTU TOTS AT WATERFRONT DANCE STUDIO Free Class Tuesday 11th September, 11.15 - 11.45 A fantastic fun class for tiny dancers from the age of 2 with a participating adult. Basic movement skills are encouraged through imagination and rhyme with a tutu provided as part of the fun so no need to buy dance gear. This class runs as pay on the day with a discount for block booking so no term commitment.

TuTu Tots is held at Waterfront Dance studio, the fantastic North Edinburgh dance venue on West shore Road with 2 dance studios, changing rooms and plenty of free off road parking. Established 12 years, the school offers classes in RAD ballet, Tap and Funky modern with an excellent exam history . All instructors hold professional qualifications and strive to provide pupils with a positive dance experience in a safe ,fun environment.

Classes also held in Cramond Kirk Hall and Ainsley Park Leisure Centre. Whether for fun, fitness or further training there's dancing fun for everyone at Waterfront Dance Studio. www.waterfrontdancestudio.co.uk Call: 07772 504958

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THEATRE AND ARTY PERFORMING ACTIVITIES AND CLASSES ARTS Pottery Painting & Craft Studio

Come and try your hand at jewellery, glass and clay making, general crafts and pottery painting Bring your imagination and we’ll have the rest!

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

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

St Mary’s Music School Come to our Open Day on Saturday 6 October to find out about music for children in Edinburgh Coates Hall, 25 Grosvenor Crescent, Edinburgh EH12 5EL Telephone 0131 538 7766

Specialist baby and toddler swimming classes.

Aquanatal yoga classes.

Our classes: • teach you to teach your baby to swim above and under the water • have fantastic physiological, social and emotional benefits for baby • can help you burn up to 250 calories per class • help support the work of the NSPCC • are fun and a great opportunity to bond with your baby Come out of your shell and learn to swim the Turtle Tots way!

Contact us at Edinburgh@turtletots.com or 07964 840 049.

www.turtletots.com

Dance classes for healthy, happy bodies and minds

breakdancing hip hop

cheerleading street dance

Step It Up Dance Parties also available!

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THE DRAMA STUDIO

ARTROOM32

If you are looking for an activity for young people that is highly stimulating, captures the imagination, boosts selfconfidence, helps making new friends and is great fun, then creative Drama may well be it! The Drama Studio begins the new term on August 15th.

Our after school and Saturday morning classes for age 4-17 are in both independent venues and in schoolbased clubs. We offer you high quality drama with performance opportunities in most venues with exciting Teenage Theatre and Film Projects and a Casting Agency as well as our very popular Children's Drama Parties.

Visit our website www.thedramastudio.com or call 0131-453-3284 and we will be delighted to talk to you.

Come and join us this term and unleash your creative monkey at artroom32. We have had the most amazing year with lots of model making, clay work, painting, drawing, sculpture, jewellery making, printing, holiday workshops and very special arty parties. All served with a huge dollop of fun and a sneaky wee bit of art history education. We are kicking off this term from August 27th so if you fancy joining the fabulous artroom32 gang, then check out the website and give me a call. Look out for new adult evening art classes coming this term - exciting!

Good luck to all of my fantastic pre-schoolers who will be starting P1.

T (Louise): 0131 553 6798/07931513815 W: www.artroom32.co.uk E: info@artroom32.co.uk

HELEN O’ GRADY This year, the Helen O’Grady Drama Academy is celebrating a big 10th birthday in Mid Scotland. Young people between the ages of 5 – 17 can enrol for these affordable classes which develop confidence and communication skills.

In this fast-moving world, many children are learning to communicate by text, email and social networking and, because of this, they may lack the essential talking skills necessary for them to speak up with confidence and have something worthwhile to say and interesting to listen to.

The curriculum, which has been developed over 30 years internationally, is ongoing and progressive. Lessons are designed to build confidence, self-esteem, verbal communication skills and creative talent. They are also lots of fun! Realising a child’s creative and expressive potential through drama is a key to their healthy development.

Classes operates in the following locations: Linlithgow, Corstorphine, Dalkeith, Edinburgh South, Dunbar, North Berwick, Broxburn, Leith, Bonnyrigg, Musselburgh, Livingston.

To find out more about this unique programme, or to book a FREE TRIAL call our office on: 0131 667 0939 midscot@helenogrady.co.uk www.helenogrady.co.uk

CAKES & CRAFTS Cakes, crafts, jewellery, tea, coffee and so much more!

Arts and crafts workshops for all ages at Cakes & Crafts in Musselburgh.

After school decopatch activities.

To find out about future workshops join the mailing list – cakesandcrafts@hotmail.com 157 North High Street, Musselburgh, EH21 6AN

DOODLES September 12th: Clay modeling Evening Class Taster Session.

Come and try your hand at clay modelling. We will be launching some new products for the autumn term and providing drinks and nibbles to help get you in the creative mood! These classes run every Wed evening from 7.30 -9pm. Single sessions are £12.50 and a block of 8 sessions is £80. Come along and give it a try for the Taster price of £10 on the night!. Please call Doodles on 0131 229 1399 to book your place.

October Half - term Holiday Workshops 15th -20th All workshops: Mon-Friday. £50 for the week or £12.50 per day. Includes juice and mid morning snack.

We will be printing with leaves, story telling, lantern making and much, much more!

Doodles, 29 Marchmont Crescent, Edinburgh

HONEY POT CERAMICS Messy Play Arts and Craft sessions - For pre-School Children 1 year+ Every Monday, Thursday and Friday morning 10am-11am £6.00 per session (includes all craft materials) and every Thursday 2pm-3pm. Children are encouraged to have lots of messy creative fun in a friendly relaxed creative atmosphere. Activities include paper crafts, painting, stamping, sticking, glittering as well as different sensory experiences! Things will get messy so old clothes are recommended for everyone! Booking essential.

October Holiday Activities – Mon 15th – Fri 19th October We are now taking bookings for our October Holiday activities. We have arranged a fantastic clay course for children aged 5-12 years. Each day we will have different hand-building clay project and children will have the experience of having a go on the potter’s wheel. Children can come for individual days or book for the week. £15 per day, or £60 for the week. Booking Essential www.honeypotceramics.com or ‘like’ and follow us on facebook or call us on: 0131-333-6348.

KIDS KNIT Kids Knit provides exciting and imaginative knitting classes for boys and girls of primary school age, from Beginner through to Expert level.

Beginners make their own knitting needles and then work with chunky yarn to make crazy creatures and cool accessories. With the close help and encouragement of fully trained Kids Knit teachers, they quickly gain the confidence to progress to trickier projects using a variety of natural fibres and wooden needles.

Have a look at the Kids Knit website to see more about the classes on offer, details of the programme and to view pictures of the amazing creations the Kids Knitters have made. If you are interested in hosting a Kids Knit class at your school, we’d be really pleased to hear from you. We have weekly and one off classes in lots of places around Edinburgh. Visit www.kidsknit.co.uk or contact Kerry on 07943 367314 kerry@knittingforall.co.uk

MESSY MUNCHKINS Messy Play is by its very definition messy - it's a fun and interesting way for children to explore and learn about the world around them. It allows children to use everyday materials in a different way and make discoveries that are new to them. Our sessions run on a free creative play basis. Creative Play is what children do when they are just being children. Whether it is drawing, painting, cutting, pasting, modelling or making, all children love being creative if they are given the chance, and the act of being creative brings with it so many benefits.

We are proud to say we have been voted one of Edinburgh's Top 3 Favourite Preschool Classes by www.netmums.com members, but don’t take their word for it, come give us a try!

Please see our website for a full list of session times and venues www.messymunchkins.co.uk. To book a trial session please contact 07876 542492 orjuliet@messymunchkins.co.uk

POTTER AROUND Inspire your children’s artistic and creative side by letting them loose in our rural pottery painting and craft studio where they can try a number of crafts and express their creativity.

Kids Clubs : Every Friday during term time (1.30 – 3pm) come and enjoy a supervised craft session. Something different each week from pottery painting to glass painting; clay modelling to jewellery making, textiles to canvases.

Saturdays 10.30 - 12noon all ages: Knitting is making a big come back so why not come and learn this ancient skill. You can also try weaving; jewellery making; card making or designs on canvas as well as pottery painting Supervised sessions - £10 with drink and snack.

Sundays 2-4pm: Come and see our potter Nick at work and have a go on the wheel for £5. If you like it, sign up for a workshop where you can make some wonderful creations in clay.

See our website for upcoming workshops. Potter Around, Overton Farm, Kirknewton, West Lothian, EH27 AH T: 01506 238961 E: chat@potteraround.co.uk www.potteraround.co.uk

SCHOOL SUPPORT EXPLORE LEARNING

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

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

0131 332 3300 (Blackhall) or 0131 337 7401 (Murrayfield) www.explorelearning.org.uk

KB-INSIGHTS – HELPING CHILDREN TO SUCCEED Poor working memory hindering learning?

Now offering COGMED a computer based programme designed by neuroscientists to target cognitive function and help those where there are issues with short term working memory. A challenge for many dyslexics.

Improve working memory with this 6 wk programme. Suitable for all ages. Working memory capacity determines your cognitive performance. Cogmed training improves your working memory. Your strengthened working memory allows you to perform better. The training creates the cognitive foundation you need to prepare for success.

Contact Karen 07837930714 to find out more about the programme.www.Kb-Insights.co.uk

Overcome Learning Differences

Does your child need help with: Reading - Dyslexia Co-ordination/Movement - Dyspraxia Writing - Dysgraphia Mathematics - Dyscalculia Memory & Organisational skills Self - Esteem At Ravivworks we provide practical help to overcome learning difficulties with targeted, challenging and fun based exercises using the Raviv Method and Bal-A-Vis-X, Rythmic, BALance, Auditory, VISion, eXercises.

For more information or to book your FREE 1 hour consultation contact: Jane W Oliver The UK'S only Bal-A-Vis-X Certified Practitioner.

07512311317 | jane.wexo@virgin.net

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KIP MCGRATH PROFESSIONAL TUITION RAVIVWORKS – OVERCOME LEARNING DIFFERENCES Jane Oliver is a learning differences practitioner in Edinburgh and helps students to overcome learning IN MATHS & ENGLISH. Give your child a head start to the new school term with Kip McGrath. Many parents worry about how their children are performing at school. Are their children at the standard appropriate for their age and class? At Kip McGrath, we provide a free, no obligation assessment which enables parents to find out exactly how their child is placed. Thereafter we tailor make a learning programme to suit the individual needs of every child. At Kip McGrath we make learning relevant to the interests of today’s children. Our 80 minute sessions are split into 6 sections of multisensory activities. These are carefully designed to both motivate and inspire as well as build confidence and self belief. Professional teachers provide weekly feedback to parents, making sure they are kept involved in their child’s learning.

For further information phone Indy on 0131 610 6110. Kip McGrath Edinburgh Central & North, 1 Huntly Street, New Town, Edinburgh EH3 5HB

KUMON At your local study centre, Kumon offers individualised maths and English study programmes tailored to all ages and abilities.

We all know the importance of maths and English. At the start of a new term it’s especially important that your child gets to grips with these core subjects and with the learning skills vital for academic progression. Kumon’s unique method of learning focuses on your child’s individual needs, providing them with skills such as concentration and time management and ensuring they progress at their own pace. Once enrolled on a Kumon programme, your child will visit the centre every week and have daily worksheets to complete at home. At the centre, the Instructor will monitor their progress, setting new work and encouraging them to take ownership of their learning. By working at a steady pace with guidance and support, children acquire a strong grounding in maths and English as well as the self-motivation and confidence required to realise their unlimited potential. Over 67,000 children study with Kumon at more than 630 centres in the UK. To give your child a head start this year, call 0800 854 714.

difficulties such as dyslexia, dyspraxia, dyscalculia, ADHD, APD, ASD and more. Jane has a wealth of experience using movement based, multi-sensory programmes the Raviv Method and Bal-A-Vis-X, rhythmic/BALance/Auditory/VISion/eXercises which addresses address rhythm, balance, focused attention, vision tracking, midline crossings in three dimensions and FUN. In essence the building blocks of physical, academic and social learning. Jane’s dedication to continued brain research and training into helping children and adults is testament to her successful achievement in becoming the UK’s First and only Certified Bal-AVis-X Practitioner, in June 2012. Jane describes her work as a life long journey with like-minded people who care about the next generation and how we can build upon their learning.

Jane offers 1:1 and group sessions in central Edinburgh. For more information please contact Jane Oliver T: 07512311317 E: jane.wexo@virgin.net www.ravivworks.co.uk

STEP AHEAD STEP AHEAD Tutoring and Educational Services is the leading teacher organisation offering one-to-one tuition in the homes of clients or tutors throughout East and Central Scotland.

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

STEP AHEAD has expertise in, and an outstanding record for, helping children gain places in independent schools. Our commitment to nurturing the raw ability and developing self-confidence in all children regardless of background or experience ensures we continually help pupils reach the high standard required for independent school entry. STEP AHEAD also helps children to start their new school with confidence, ensuring that they will enjoy equal academic attainment as their new school friends. A highly personal and caring service is provided - by selected tutors - starting with detailed assessment, then regular and consistent tutoring, leading to considerable progress.

For further information contact 0131 441 3603 or 01383 624599 and look at our websitewww.stepaheadtuition.com

TOUCAN TUTORS Beyond the classroom, dedicated time with a tutor can bring a tremendous boost to confidence and achievement. Edinburgh-based Toucan Tutors aims to provide an excellent option for quality home tuition.

“We are here to make the process of finding a good tutor as easy as possible,” says Dr. Zoë Barclay, Director.

“We seek tutors who are able to build a great rapport with their students. Our tutors are carefully selected not only for excellence in their field, but for a proven ability to communicate their subject in a straightforward yet inspiring manner.”

Whether preparing for national exams, or simply supporting school learning, home tuition provides a fresh point of engagement and can really deliver lasting value. www.toucantutors.co.uk Tel: 0131 6232212

Lothian Dance Academy 2 Rosefield Ave Lane, Portobello EH15 1AX

and also Gracemount Leisure Centre

Principal: Miss M.Phillips Diploma:Royal Academy of Dance Pre-school Ballet & Tap Modern Jazz & Tap Boogie Kids Streetdance/Hip Hop Musical Theatre Song & Dance RAD Ballet Grades to Advanced

2YRS - ADULT

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

contact@lothiandance.com 20 FAMILIES EDINBURGH ISSUE 74

SCHOOLS OPEN DAY

WILL GIVE YOU FOOD FOR THOUGHT

On 27 September 2012 all City of Edinburgh Council primary schools in Edinburgh are opening their doors to let future parents come and see what’s on offer. This is the first ever citywide open day for the council’s primary schools and aims to let parents find out more about their own local catchment school.

Mike Rosendale, Edinburgh’s Head of Schools says: “If you want to see your local school in operation and meet the staff, this is the perfect opportunity to experience the excellent work that is taking place at schools throughout the city.

“We are keen to encourage parents who will be registering their children this November to send their children to their local school. The open day will give you an opportunity to see what your local school can offer and we think you’ll be impressed with what you see.

“We see this as a great chance to increase the numbers of local kids attending their local schools.”

This is a fantastic opportunity to help develop your community and make your school an even better place for children to learn. Go and see what’s on offer for yourself on Thursday 27 September 2012 between 10am and 3pm. Any parents with children under primary school age are welcome to attend and parents who may be thinking of moving into an area may also find it useful.

Further information on catchment schools and the Open Day can be found on the Council’s website at www.edinburgh.gov.uk/primaryschoolsopenday

CARE AND WELL-BEING AT INDEPENDENT SCHOOLS Independent schools in Scotland place an emphasis on meeting the personal, social, emotional and intellectual needs of each child so that every individual can participate fully in school life and develop individual talents.

In each school, teams of staff are responsible for pupils’ wellbeing and they dedicate time and expertise to encouraging and supporting pupils. Each school has its own pastoral care aims that describe how pupils are supported and nurtured. Broadly, pupils are encouraged to give of their best, to support one another and to grow in confidence. While the aims will differ from school to school, they are likely to address some or all of the following: • provide an environment in which pupils feel comfortable, safe and secure in an atmosphere of mutual trust and respect • encourage positive interaction between pupils • provide the conditions where pupils can develop abilities, skills and talents • provide activities appropriate to age and stage that encourage each individual pupil to develop spiritually, culturally, morally and socially • develop pupils’ responsibility - for themselves and others “Pupils are encouraged to give of their best, to support one another and to grow in confidence.”

Guidance staff have specific responsibility for pupils’ care and welfare and they quickly get to know each child as an individual. At some schools, Guidance staff are responsible for the pupils in a particular year group (which means that a pupil’s Guidance tutor will change every year) while in others, pupils keep the same Guidance tutor throughout the duration of their school life and any brothers and sisters are assigned the same Guidance tutor. Great importance is placed on creating a safe and secure environment where children can settle quickly, make friends and thrive.

For further information, advice and guidance about independent schools in Scotland, call Scottish Council of Independent Schools (SCIS) on 0131 556 2316 or visit www.scis.org.uk/for-parents

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

Care We strive to nurture the qualities of honesty, courtesy and tolerance in all of our pupils and our pastoral care is of the highest standard.

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

The Arts Music, Art and Drama all give excellent opportunities for selfexpression. We have a thriving Art department, regular stage performances and expert musical tuition.

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

If you would like to find out more about Fettes Prep or Fettes College, please visit our Open Day on Sunday 7th October 1.30pm - 4.15pm. Please call our Registrar, Mrs Harriet Marshal, for further details on 0131 311 6744.

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GEORGE HERIOT’S SCHOOL George Heriot’s School celebrated the opening our new Centre for Sport and Exercise in March 2012 and our pupils are enjoying using this wonderful new facility.

Our pupils continue to do extremely well in their examinations – down to the outstanding professionalism and skill of our talented staff and the natural flair, hard work and dedication of our pupils. We are confident of excellent results again this session.

However, our exam grades are only a small part of the picture. At all stages throughout our Junior and Senior Schools, Heriot’s cultivates an ethos of care reinforced by outstanding guidance and our commitment to charitable fundraising and voluntary service. Our pupils also benefit from an extraordinary number of extra curricular activities, ranging from the 29 sports on offer to a huge variety of musical, dramatic and other possibilities; the emphasis, once again is on taking part – in everything we do we want to encourage our young people to participate, to try hard and to be happy.

For us, the highlight of our Open Morning, which this session will fall on Saturday 29 September, will once again be the turn out of pupils, Junior and Senior, willing to volunteer to give up their Saturday to show prospective pupils and their parents their School. We hope you will join us for a happy and fun morning and discover the warm community that is George Heriot’s School. You are also most welcome to visit the School on ‘normal’ days – visits are easily arranged by contacting our Admissions Department on 0131 221 6709.

Choosing a school for your child is a very important decision. Our most important publicity come from our current and former parents so do please feel free to speak to them!

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

ERSKINE STEWART’S MELVILLE SCHOOLS

EDINBURGH STEINER SCHOOL

You couldn’t wish for a better start in life.

We all want the best for our children. So where better to start them off than at “the school all other Edinburgh preps look up to”, according to The Good Schools Guide.

Steiner Schools differ from other independent schools in both curriculum and approach. From Kindergarten until our pupils leave us at the age of 18 years, subject matter is linked to their developmental stage and age, which both inspires and motivates them. All subjects are linked together interweaving academic, ©Sabrina Durling jones artistic and practical subjects – something that the Scottish Government’s Curriculum for Excellence is striving to achieve.

The journey begins here at The Mary Erskine and Stewart’s Melville Junior School, where we provide a mixture of stimulating learning and serious fun for children from as young as three in our Snowdrops nursery, and from age four in our pre-school classes where all our children are taught by fully qualified teachers.

To parents’ delight, every Primary Start child is guaranteed a place in Primary 1 of our Junior School where, for the next six years, we encourage boys and girls to be adventurous in their learning, to make mistakes, to recognise and learn from them, and to be confident enough to ask for help. By the time they leave Junior School, your son or daughter will be a happy, self-assured and respectful young adult.

To help with the practicalities of life, our e-Plus programme provides wrap around care before school, after school and during the holidays. Parents love it because it fits around their work commitments; children love it because… well, let’s ask them: “After School Club is awesome”.

Over 150 years of turning out world-class students has taught us that boys and girls develop differently and that in adolescence their learning styles vary. That’s why in the Erskine Stewart’s Melville family of schools, 12 to 17 year olds are taught separately.

Girls go on to attend The Mary Erskine School, whilst boys join Stewart’s Melville College.

Though they’re taught separately, girls and boys enjoy social, sporting and recreational activities together; so that by the time they make their final move up to our co-educational Sixth Form they have already formed firm and lasting friendships. Here they make the transition from pupil to independent, responsible and self-motivated student.

Come and see the difference for yourself this Open Day, on Saturday 22 September.

Or arrange to visit us on another day when it’s business as usual… the unique Erskine Stewart’s Melville way.

Impressed by what you’ve read but worried you won’t be able to afford the fees? We offer fee assistance to children joining us at any stage from Primary 7.

We welcome just 350 children aged 3 ½ - 18 years with admissions accepted throughout the year. Pupils of all abilities are welcomed and valued for what they bring to the school community.

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

Early Years Education (0 – 6 years) Our Early Years education starts as early as pregnancy. Expectant mothers, parents and carers are welcomed with their babies and toddlers to a range of relaxed groups. Set in a dedicated and cosy building, the groups enjoy organic baking, seasonal crafts, festivals, nature walks and songs.

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

Like the European model of education, we delay the start of formal or desk based learning until after the age of six years. This allows our pupils to develop literacy, numeracy, social and physical skills through play based learning.

The starting age for primary pupils in the UK has not been reviewed since its introduction in 1870 and increasingly both parents and academics are raising concerns about the pressure that this can place on young children. When our pupils do enter our Lower School after their sixth birthday, they are confident and are ready to embrace formal learning.

Our school is proud to produce able young people, who have the spirit and entrepreneurial flair to become productive adults. Our former pupils go forward into the world with confidence with more than 90% continuing on to Higher Education.

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EDINBURGH MONTESSORI ARTS SCHOOL Summer School equaled GREAT FUN at EMAS this year. We welcomed children from all over Edinburgh for 6 continent themed workshops and drama extravaganza’s with Books Alive. We explored animals, landscapes, traditions and stories from across the world; playing, painting, singing and dancing whilst discovering new interests along the way. We look forward to our up and coming October Holiday Club for more Montessori Arts action! Places are limited so please book early to avoid disappointment.

OPEN MORNING at Edinburgh Montessori Arts School. Come and see our inspiring and beautiful classrooms!

Meet the teachers and get a taste of the complete Montessori educational experience.

Doors open from 10am –1pm. Principal Teacher’s talk - 11am – hear more about how our school captures the essence of real Montessori practice and how this is complemented by our creative arts specialists. Everyone welcome.

AWARD for EMAS Summer term ended on a high at EMAS with the founder and Principal being awarded ‘Creative Young Entrepreneur 2012’ by Junior Chamber of Commerce International.

Emma Rattigan opened EMAS in tiny premises in Morningside in 2006. The nursery quickly grew and Edinburgh Montessori Arts School was established as an independent school in 2010. Since moving to purpose designed premises in 2011 the school has solidified it’s aims of providing a complete Montessori education coupled with specialist teaching in the creative arts.

Emma comments; “I was honored to receive this award and see it as an accolade to the work of the whole school team who’s dedication and teaching expertise turns our children on to the excitement of learning and makes our school a joyful place to be.”

OPEN MORNING

SATURDAY 6TH OCTOBER

Spacious, light filled classrooms for: Infant Community Educational care for 1 – 3 year olds Children’s House Nursery education for 3 – 6 year olds Elementary Primary education for 6 – 12 year olds

For more information call 0131 446 0777 office@emaschool.co.uk • www.emaschool.co.uk Tower Mains Studios, 18 Liberton Brae, Edinburgh, EH16 6AE

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GEORGE WATSON'S COLLEGE All on One Campus At Watson's they work hard to help pupils to settle in to their new environment.

Arguably, however, it is the warm welcome from the pupils that makes the biggest impact. It is a close-knit community, and girls and boys from Nursery through to S6 share a secure, friendly and stimulating environment, from which to explore the many opportunities available to them, all on a single campus.

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

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

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

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

Flexible wrap around and holiday care is available for younger pupils to fit the needs of modern family life.

This year the final £6m phase of The George Watson’s Centre for Sport opened and Watson’s can now offer magnificent unrivalled sporting facilities on their campus.

Go along to their Open Morning on 6 October and see what it means to be part of the Watson’s family.

OPEN DAYS/MORNINGS AT A GLANCE Erskine Stewart’s Melville Schools Open Day Saturday 22 September 10am – 1pm City of Edinburgh Council Primary Schools Open Day Thursday 27 September between 10am and 3pm George Heriot’s School Open Morning Saturday 29 September 9.45am – 1pm Edinburgh Steiner School Tour Friday 5th October

REGIUS SCHOOL

Regius School has just celebrated its Silver Jubilee as an independent Primary School in Edinburgh and serving Edinburgh and the Lothians.

The excellence and all round education is now available for Distance Learners and for those intending to start satellite schools around Scotland.

Begun in Newington, Edinburgh in 1986 it has served nearly 150 children since it began.

Founded on a clear Christian basis the school has pupils from both church and secular backgrounds. As a former parent said, the children grow up with a secure sense of their own identity, giving them confidence and purpose as they progress to adulthood.

A recent visit from HMIe warmly commended the school; ‘The school is developing its children very well. There are appropriate arrangements for maintaining its high standards of attainment and personal achievement, within the context of its Christian values…. the school has a proven profile of strong attainment over the years…..[it] has very clear aims and values that have been developed and agreed by staff, children and parents together……these form the foundation of the school’s curriculum rationale and forward thinking approach to learning and teaching.’

The school uses the Scottish Curriculum for Excellence, and has developed an exemplary system for assessment and quality assurance. To encourage every child to develop their strengths there is a very high teacher to pupil ratio. Intensive learning opportunities from Primary 1 to Primary 4 enable the older children to become focused independent learners, who are supported and encouraged in every aspect of learning and able to make informed decisions and life choices based on a secure Christian foundation.

Regius School is a place where our children are valued, where they are encouraged to reflect on their learning together and dream big dreams, where a child’s imagination opens doors of endless possibilities! www.regius.edin.sch.uk Tel. 0131 669 2913

Edinburgh Montessori Arts School Open Morning Saturday 6th October 10am – 1pm George Watson’s College Open Morning Saturday 6 October 9.30am – 12.30pm Fettes Prep/Fettes College Open Day Sunday 7th October 1.30pm - 4.15pm St George’s School for Girls Open Mornings Wednesday 10 October and Saturday 27th October

ST GEORGE’S SCHOOL FOR GIRLS St George's School, like many independent schools, is an all-through school: we educate children as young as two, and we see confident young women leave our sixth form each year, ready to take their place in the world.

What happens between these two ends of the age spectrum is the interesting bit. You would expect us to do our very best to ensure the highest standards of learning and teaching in every part of the school - and we certainly do try very hard to achieve this aim. However, our intention is that we should be seen as one school managing transition from each stage to the next in a smooth and coherent way so that each girl is always building on previous learning in a dynamic context.

We want every girl to enjoy her learning. We believe that our Nursery and Junior School provide many opportunities to encourage our girls to develop into young women who are considerate of others, open to new ideas and with the ability to judge what is right. As the oldest girls in Junior School, our Primary 5 girls willingly take on leadership roles, and then they are ready to move into Lower School.

Lower School is a vibrant and energetic place - the middle part of the school - where the transition from primary to secondary education is managed seamlessly. From Primary 6 onwards, our Lower School girls demonstrate their talents, not only in academic work but, just as importantly, in music, drama, dance, sport and a whole host of other activities. Moving to Upper School at the end of Lower 4 (S1) is not a daunting process because the girls already know many of their teachers and they are familiar with teaching spaces like the art studio and sports hall.

We are not complacent. We are enthusiastic about building on our success, and that is why progression and coherence in our learning and teaching are at the heart of our development plans. We are privileged to work in an all-through school: it is wonderful to see the whole process of children developing into adults of whom we can be proud.

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& About

these events and morecan canbe be found found on AllAll these events and more on All these events and more can be found on our website www.familiesedinburgh.co.uk While every care has been taken to compile the OUT AND ABOUT section please remember that this magazine is printed weeks ahead of the events. PLEASE call and check events with the venue to avoid any disappointment before setting out. If you have any events you would like listed free in this section please email them to editor@familiesedinburgh.co.uk

Baby & Child Fair

Foundation Edinburgh – the Story of a City. Visit the Museum of Edinburgh’s

Cramond Kirk Hall Cramond, EH4 6HZ

Saturday September 8th 2012 10am - 4pm

Everything from Bump to Rascal under one roof • Retailers • Community groups • Pre-School Service Providers.

Plus bouncy castle, activities and refreshments.

To find out more about exhibiting call on

07979 795331 or 0131 312 6911 email: avennelle@hotmail.com www.facebook.com/CramondKirkHalls

edinburgh

callanetics

magical new attraction, Foundation Edinburgh – the Story of a City. In the Museum’s blackedout theatre, go on a unique journey through time and feel as if you’re flying over the city watching history unfold - from the volcanic creation of Arthur’s Seat in prehistoric times to events today. Museum of Edinburgh, 140-146 Canongate, Royal Mile, Edinburgh EH8 8DD Opening times: Monday to Saturday 10am - 5pm.. Entry to the Museum of Edinburgh is free. Ticket prices for Foundation Edinburgh are £4 (adults), £3 (concessions), £2 (child) and £10 (family ticket). www.edinburghmuseums.org.uk/Venues/Museum-ofEdinburgh Every Wednesday, Magic Carpet. 10:30–10:50. Free. Limited places – sign up on the day at the Information Desk in the Entrance Hall and then meet at the Inchkeith Lighthouse Lens in the Grand Gallery. The National Museum of Scotland’s magic carpet introduces little ones to some of the fantastic things in the museum through 20 minutes of stories, songs and activities.

Join us as the carpet visits a different gallery or theme every week. Look out for special guests too! National Museum of Scotland, Chambers Street, Edinburgh, EH1 1JF Every Friday Friday Afternoon Activities 13:30–16:30 (drop-in) Cost: Free Let out of school early? Make the most of your half-day Friday and come and have some fun with the National Museum of Scotland! Drop by for free activities such as Gallery Safaris, makeand-take and object handling. Check out information screens on the day for details.

National Museum of Scotland, Chambers Street, Edinburgh, EH1 1JF Sunday 19 August Celebrating Brave Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh. 11am – 4pm.

Come and celebrate the launch of the new Disney Pixar block-buster movie Brave. Youngsters can try their hand at archery and the Botanics’ own Talking Trees storytellers will keep their audience entertained with enthralling narratives. Free.

Saturday 25 & Sunday 26 August A Treasured Paradise John Hope Gateway, Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh. Ages 5+. Working with an Iranian artist you will create a piece of visual art that captures a piece of paradise inspired by south-west Asian landscapes.

With Greengage Arts Sunday 26th August The Jack & Jill Market 10.30am – 1.30pm 40 stalls bursting with quality, nearly-new baby & kids clothes, toys, buggies, bikes, equipment, etc (0-9 yrs).

West Lothian College, Almondvale Crescent, Livingston, EH54 7EP www.jackandjillmarket.co.uk Thursday 30 August Nappuccino, 10am - 11.30am. Your ‘one stop’ event to meet all your real nappy needs. Get free advice and information from parents with lots of experience of using real nappies, see different types of nappies and if you’d like, apply for a trial pack or lending kit. Duncan Place Resource Centre, Duncan Place (just off Duke St, Leith), Edinburgh, EH6 8HW. Please see www.changeworks.org.uk/shared/edinburgh/536/ to keep up to date with our events listings.

Saturday 1 September, Greyfrairs Bobby on Parade. Construct a sculpture of everyone’s favourite dog and then make him a new trendy collar and feeding bowl using selfhardening clay and felt. With artist Tessa Asquith-Lamb. 10.30 am -12.30 pm or 1.30 pm -3.30 pm. For booking and further information contact Margaret Findlay on 0131 529 3963/2 or 529 5212. margaret.findlay@edinburgh.gov.uk Museum of Edinburgh, Huntly House, Canongate, Royal Mile Saturday 1 September Family Drop in art sessions 10.30am – 12 noon Have fun exploring the City Art Centre exhibitions and make creative art with our Visitor Assistants exploring a variety of different mediums. After looking at some of the art on display you will get the chance to experiment with pastels, pencils, conte, textures and collage.

These sessions will take place on the ground floor of the City Art Centre.

1-2 September Love Pets Scotland Show From dancing dogs and Scotland’s smallest horse to herding ducks and racing ferrets, Love Pets Scotland is an un-missable event for all the family. Royal Highland Centre, Ingliston. For more information and to book tickets go to www.lovepetsshow.co.uk.

How to look 10 years younger in 10 hours

Guaranteed results 1 hour callanetics vs 20 hours aerobics...... you decide!

"I lost 10 inches, in 10 hours/classes"

Call 0131 447 8414 or 07848 041070 karin@edinburgh-callanetics.co.uk www.edinburgh-callanetics.co.uk Classes at: Calton Centre • Duncan Place Resource Centre • Melville Street • Roxburghe Hotel • Saughton Community Centre • Edinburgh Callanetics Studio, Craiglea Drive, Morningside

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Sunday 2nd September Little Seedlings Club “If it wasnae for your wellies!”

The start of autumn is the perfect time to be splashing about the garden in your wellies. Children are invited to bring along an old wellie boot and plant it with spring bulbs, ready for a splash of colour next year. For full details about all events, times and how to join Dobbies Little Seedlings Club please contact Dobbies Garden World Melville – 0131 663 1941 or visit www.dobbies.com

nour ourwebsite websitewww.familiesedinburgh.co.uk www.familiesedinburgh.co.uk

& About

Sunday September 2nd (or September 9th if postponed due to a bad weather forecast). Art in the Park. Colinton's annual village fair. The day will run from 11am to 5pm in historic Spylaw Park off Spylaw Street, Colinton, EH13 0JU. The event, organised by Colinton Village Events (CVE) Group, encompasses a wide array of handmade arts & crafts stalls, a mini ‘antiques roadshow’, a dedicated area for children's activities, a dog show, a performance area, and delicious food including burgers, pizza, home baking and ice-cream. www.colintonvillage.com Sunday 2 September Art Cart (Ages 4-12) 2-4pm. Free drop-in art activities for all the family led by artists Tessa Asquith-Lamb and Louise Fraser. Each month, there's something new to create inspired by different works from the collection or exhibitions.

Supported by the Friends of the National Galleries of Scotland. Scottish National Gallery Saturday 8th September Baby and Child Fair The Baby and Child Fair to be held between 10.00am and 4.00pm on the 8th September at the Cramond Kirk Halls is the place to be if you want to compare and buy from a huge range of superb baby, child and maternity products to meet all lifestyle needs and budgets. You will find all sorts of brands to choose from, product demonstrations, experts on hand to advise and of course great show offers. While you are there enjoy some refreshments as the young ones take advantage of the bouncy castle or the other attractions. Why not make a day of it – Cramond Kirk Halls are set in beautiful grounds just a few strides from the seafront and the picturesque village. There are excellent parking facilities, alternatively in easy reach of the LRT 41 bus. Cramond Kirk Hall, Cramond, EH4 6HZ Facebook/CramondKirkHalls, Email: avenelle@hotmail.com Saturday 8 - Sunday 9 September Scottish Beavers 1.00 pm - 4.00 pm.

Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh. Real Life Science Studio, John Hope Gateway Beavers are back in Scotland thanks to a recent reintroduction. Find out the latest on how these outsize rodents are doing and how their engineering skills create habitats for other wildlife.

With the Scottish Wildlife Trust. Image by Per Harald Olsen.

The Big Draw 2012 Palace of Holyroodhouse Halloween 12 – 19 October (8 days) 11.00 - 15.00 Discover a world of intrigue and secrets at the Palace. Dress up as a king or queen and make your own Royal Mask!

Sunday 9 September 2-4pm. Become a Portrait Detective for the afternoon!

Collect your kit, follow clues and help solve mysteries involving characters from Scottish history.

Supported by the friends of the National Galleries of Scotland. Scottish National Portrait Gallery Saturday 15 September Family Drop in art sessions 10.30am – 12 noon Have fun exploring the City Art Centre exhibitions and make creative art with our Visitor Assistants exploring a variety of different mediums. After looking at some of the art on display you will get the chance to experiment with pastels, pencils, conte, textures and collage.

These sessions will take place on the ground floor of the City Art Centre.

Saturday 15 September Come and Meet the Illustrators (Ages 5+) (Sara Ogilvie). 2-2.30pm & 3-3.30pm. A chance to meet in person, the children's illustrators represented in the exhibition Take Five Illustrators. Hear some stories, do some drawing or play some games. You can even get your book signed.

Clore Education Centre, National Gallery Complex Sunday 16 September Bags of Art (Ages 4-12) 2-4pm. Collect a bag of activities from the art station to help your family explore the collection and create your own artworks. Led by artists Tessa Asquith-Lamb and Louise Fraser. Supported by the Friends of the National Galleries of Scotland. Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art One September 19th National Pirate Day Ahoy there! Come to Doodles dressed as a Pirate and get 20% off all pottery painted on the day. There will be prizes too for the best costume and most despicably painted pirate themed pottery! Call us on 0131 229 1399 to book your place.

Saturday 22 September, Family Drop in art sessions 10.30am – 12 noon. Have fun exploring the City Art Centre exhibitions and make creative art with our Visitor Assistants exploring a variety of different mediums. After looking at some of the art on display you will get the chance to experiment with pastels, pencils, conte, textures and collage.

These sessions will take place on the ground floor of the City Art Centre.

Saturday 22nd September Esk Valley NCT Nearly New Sale, 13.00 - 14.30.

Newtongrange Parish Church Hall, Main St, Newtongrange, EH22 4PG (15 mins drive from Cameron toll): Toys, Nursery Equipment, Childrens & Maternity Clothes. Please come along to find a bargain.

For more information or to sell at the event email: eskvalleynct@hotmail.com

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& About Saturday 22 September Catherine Wheels Theatre Company: The Ballad of Pondlife McGurk Tickets £6.50, £24 family of 4. 7pm. Following the success of White, and a successful run at Sydney Opera House, multiaward winning Catherine Wheels presents a coming of age tale about just how difficult it can be to stay true to your friends. Ages 9+ Brunton Theatre, Ladywell Way, Musselburgh EH21 6AA. Box Office: 0131 665 2240 or www.bruntontheatre.co.uk Saturday 22nd September Septemberfest 2012 11am – 4pm. Free Entry. Community Festival at Broughton High School, Comely Bank, Edinburgh.

Lots of fun for all ages. The festival includes music and dance with pipers, samba band, rock choir, bands, capoeira, drumming, and dance workshops and displays. Lots of sports tasters and competitions. Bouncy castles and inflatables for all ages plus the star attraction climbing tower. A huge craft fair with loads of fantastic handcrafted goods. Get your bike fixed for free and have a go at the bike obstacle course. Sit in a fire engine and ring the siren. Face painting, nail bar, coconut shy, chemistry capers, fantastic balloons, henna tattoos, the list is endless, The village café will be selling tea and cakes, BBQ and ice cream. Entry is free and many of the activities are free. www.broughton.edin.sch.uk Facebook Septemberfest 2012 ©Andy McGregor

Sunday 23 September The Jack & Jill Market 10.30am-1.30pm 40 stalls of quality nearly-new baby & kids clothes, cots, toys, buggies, bikes and all the rest (0-9 yrs) £1 Adults. West Lothian College, Almondvale Crescent, Livingston EH54 7EP www.jackandjillmarket.co.uk Sunday 23rd September The Jack & Jill Market 10.30am – 1.30pm 60 stalls of quality, nearly-new baby & kids clothes, cots, toys, buggies, bikes, and all the rest (0-9 yrs) £1 Adult. Meadowbank Leisure Centre, London Rd, Edinburgh, EH6 7AE www.jackandjillmarket.co.uk Sunday 23rd September Pirates and Princesses Party. Do you love dressing up – then come along to our Pirates and Princesses party…We’ll be showing you how to make your own fabulous treasure chest or tiara. There will also be a range of pirate and princess ceramics to paint and decorate. The fun starts at 3pm! Price £15 per head (includes treasure chest and tiara supplies and tea party).

Booking and Pirate/ Princess outfits Essential! www.honeypotceramics.com Thursday 27 September Nappuccino, 10am 11.30am. Get free advice and information from parents with lots of experience of using real nappies, see different types of nappies and if you’d like, apply for a trial pack or lending kit.

Duncan Place Resource Centre, Duncan Place (just off Duke St, Leith), Edinburgh, EH6 8HW. Please see www.changeworks.org.uk/shared/edinburgh/536/ to keep up to date with our events listings Saturday 29 September Seashells on the Seashore. Flotsam and jetsam from the seashore. Use moss, seashells or sand to decorate a box in which to keep your treasure. 10.30 am – 12.30 pm Family Art Workshops Drop in sessions with museum staff Join our Visitor Assistants Linzi Bootman and Ruby Tulloch for an arty drop-in family session. Museum of Edinburgh, Huntly House, Canongate, Royal Mile Saturday 29 September 2012 Teddy Bears’ Picnic And Other Friends – With artist Lindsey Hamilton.

Experience our magical FREE family Saturday drop-in workshops and lose yourself in our eclectic mix of old toys and memories.

All our drop-in sessions run between 10.30am-12.30pm and 1.30-3.30pm at Museum of Childhood, 42 High Street, Royal Mile, Edinburgh EH1 1TG. 29th -30th September Happy 2nd Birthday Weekend at Honey Pot Ceramics! To celebrate

Sunday 23 September Meet the Ancestors Darnley Must Die (Ages 4-12) 2pm & 3pm (45 mins).

Who murdered Mary, Queen of Scots's second husband?

What clues lie in the SNPG portraits? Join historian and author Allan Burnett for an investigation of one of Scotland’s greatest unsolved mysteries. Scottish National Portrait Gallery

their 2nd Birthday, they’ll be giving away free cake all weekend for everyone coming into the studio... so pop in and say hello. www.honeypotceramics.com October is Creepy Crawly Month at Edinburgh Zoo. Take part in a host of bug-themed activities and visit over 1000 amazing animals. Edinburgh Zoo, Corstorphine Road, Edinburgh. Zoo admission rates apply. www.edinburghzoo.org.uk

Greenhill Montessori Nursery • Bilingual - Spanish • Full Sessions, AM or PM • Parents and Toddlers Groups • Gardening, Movement, Music • Extracurricular Spanish Lessons

0131 629 0787 www.greenhillmontessori.co.uk 28 FAMILIES EDINBURGH ISSUE 74

these events and morecan canbe be found found on AllAll these events and more on Saturday 6 October The Big Draw: Picassomania!

(Ages 8+). No booking required: free, unticketed. 11am4pm. To celebrate this year’s Big Draw, join us to be inspired

by Picasso. Create stylish Picasso fans, make a Picasso-zine about your visit or design and make jewellery for Picasso’s ladies. Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art One Saturday 6 October Family Drop in art sessions 10.30am – 12 noon. Have fun exploring the City Art Centre exhibitions and make creative art with our Visitor Assistants exploring a variety of different mediums. After looking at some of the art on display you will get the chance to experiment with pastels, pencils, conte, textures and collage.

These sessions will take place on the ground floor of the City Art Centre.

Saturday 6 October Handmade Pottery. Learn to make your own pottery using traditional methods inspired by the museums pottery collection. With artist Morag Macdonald. Suitable for ages 5+. 10.30 am - 12.30 pm or 1.30 pm - 3.30 pm. For booking and further information contact Margaret Findlay on 0131 529 3963/2 or 529 5212. margaret.findlay@edinburgh.gov.uk.

Museum of Edinburgh, Huntly House, Canongate, Royal Mile Saturday 6 - Sunday 7 October Marine Life 1.00 pm - 4.00 pm. Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh.

Real Life Science Studio, John Hope Gateway The Marine Conservation Society will be showcasing some of their work with endangered turtles. Come and visit us to find out what we do to help some of Scotland's rarest visitors and to see our life size leatherback turtle model called Lola. You can even make you very own crafted turtle! With the Marine Conservation Society Sunday 7th October Little Seedlings Club Amazing Apples and Fabulous Fruit Trees In preparation for World Apple Day on 21st October, Dobbies Little Seedlings Club is finding out about different types of apples and other fruit grown in orchards. Children will take part in fun activities and make their own apple wreath.

For full details about all events, times and how to join Dobbies Little Seedlings Club please contact Dobbies Garden World Melville – 0131 663 1941 or visit www.dobbies.com Sunday 7th October The Bump, Baby & Child Show. The event offers a fun-filled day with the main event hall offering a wide selection of products to select from, a demonstration area, children’s play area, family coffee shop, expert parenting advice and of course the not to be missed show offers all under the one roof. Tickets £7 (advance ticket offers available) Roxburghe Hotel, George Street www.bumpbabyandchildshow.com/ Sunday 7 October Art Cart (Ages 4-12) 2-4pm. Free drop-in art activities for all the family led by artists Tessa Asquith-Lamb and Louise Fraser. Each month, there's something new to create inspired by different works from the collection or exhibitions. Supported by the Friends of the National Galleries of Scotland. Scottish National Gallery

& About

nour ourwebsite websitewww.familiesedinburgh.co.uk www.familiesedinburgh.co.uk 12 – 19 October The

Big Draw 2012 Holyroodhouse Halloween. Explore the Palace of Holyroodhouse during the October mid-term break. Discover intrigue and conspiracy as you explore the Royal rooms and capture the sights in a special Palace sketchbook. Visit the family room at the Palace where you can dress up like Mary, Queen of Scots and create your own Royal mask!

All family activities are free with standard admission to the Palace/Gallery or a valid 1 Year Pass. Palace of Holyroodhouse Edinburgh EH8 8DX

Saturday 13 October Come and Meet the Illustrators (Ages 5+) (Bruce Ingman) 2-2.30pm & 3-3.30pm. A chance to meet in person, the children's illustrators represented in the exhibition Take Five Illustrators.

Hear some stories, do some drawing or play some games.

You can even get your book signed. Clore Education Centre, National Gallery Complex Saturday 13 - Sunday 14 October Wild and Wonderful World of Scottish Plants. 1.00 pm 4.00 pm. Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh. Real Life Science Studio, John Hope Gateway. Plantlife Scotland explores the wonderful world of lichens, fungi, mosses and wildflowers. Come along to find out more about what is growing around us, with activities, folklore tales and fascinating facts. With Plantlife Scotland.

Sunday 14 October Portrait Detectives!

(Ages 4-12) 2 - 4pm. Become a Portrait Detective for the afternoon! Collect your kit, follow clues and help solve mysteries involving characters from Scottish history.

Supported by the friends of the National Galleries of Scotland. Scottish National Portrait Gallery

Thursday 18-Sunday 21 October Thomas the

Rhymer Puppetry Workshops with Yugen Puppet Company

(Ages 4-12) 1.30pm & 2.30pm (1 hr) Learn how to make your own puppets to tell the story of Thomas the Rhymer.

Led by Alison Monaghan from the Yugen Puppet Company.

Scottish National Portrait Gallery

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

If you want to feel confident about relaunching your career, develop your computer skills and update your CV and interview technique, then The PCT Partnership's 'Women Returning to Work' course, starting in October 2012, is for you. The 10 week course is funded by Skills Development Scotland and is free if you live in Edinburgh/Lothians.

Call The PCT Partnership on 0131 622 6240 or email training@thepctpartnership.co.uk

Friday 19 – Sunday 28 October Scottish International Storytelling Festival Once Upon a Story: Folktales of Europe. As Hallowe’en approaches, Scotland lights its seasonal storytelling hearth and welcomes all nations to our festive glow. Why do we keep telling the same stories in new versions? What is the place and role of fairy tales in the 21st century? Do folk tales hold important clues? In the 2ooth anniversary year of the Brothers Grimm, we look at folk tales old and new and explore their enduring fascination for all cultures and generations.

A programme of engaging live storytelling events, often involving craft and storymaking activities, specifically designed for children and families, as part of the Storytelling Festival. Scottish Storytelling Centre, High Street, Edinburgh

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

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

Saturday 20 October Thomas the Rhymer and the Fairy Queen - Scottish International Storytelling Festival (Age 4-12) 11am (45 mins) Hear the tall tale of Thomas the Rhymer and discover what happened when he met the powerful Fairy Queen. Performed by storyteller Linda Williamson and Celtic harpist Heather Yule. Scottish National Portrait Gallery

Tuesday 16 October The People’s Theatre Company: There Was An Old Lady Who Swallowed A Fly. Tickets £6.50, £24 family of 4. Saturday 20 October The Enchanted Museum

2.30pm. There Was an Old Lady Who Swallowed A Fly. I don’t know why she swallowed a fly...But The People’s Theatre Company do! And now you can too as they bring one of the world’s best loved nursery rhymes to life for the very first time. Ages 4+ Brunton Theatre, Ladywell Way, Musselburgh EH21 6AA Box Office: 0131 665 2240 or www.bruntontheatre.co.uk Wednesday 17 October Freehand Theatre Little Red You Know Who. Tickets £6.50, £24 family of 4.

1pm & 3pm. Taking a well known traditional story (you know which!) this spell-binding play for young children follows a magical path through the woods. Freehand Theatre creates a memorable and reassuring journey with its delightful use of puppetry, colour and specially composed music.

Ages 3+ Brunton Theatre, Ladywell Way, Musselburgh EH21 6AA. Box Office: 0131 665 2240 or www.bruntontheatre.co.uk

National Museum of Scotland. 12.30pm (4hrs). Free.

Ages 3+. Hidden storytellers will appear, voices will be heard and marvellous objects will breathe and move! Plus free events as listed below; drop in story-quilting and Russian crafts in the Learning Centre from 1.30pm and a multi– sensory storybox session for children with additional support needs at 2.30pm, also in the Learning Centre.

To reserve free places on the multi-sensory workshop please contact info@flotsamandjetsam.co.uk (All other events unreserved). 12.30-1.30pm The Fisherman and His Wife: Scottish Youth Theatre Family Storytime (3-7) 2-2.50pm Mac-A-Story: It’s Grimm Up North: with Ron Fairweather and Fergus McNicol (5+) 3.30-4.30pm East of the Sun and West of the Moon: doughty women and daring lassies (7+)

Cakes, Crafts, Jewellery, Tea,Coffee and much more.

You'll find treasures aplenty and can even make some of your own.

Cafe • Craft Workshops • Parties • Decopatch • Venue Hire 157 North Musselburgh High Street e mail - cakeandcrafts@hotmail.com Telephone - 07796 942514

29 FAMILIES EDINBURGH ISSUE 74

& About

All these events and more can be found on our website www.familiesedinburgh.co.uk Saturday 20 October All that glitters is not gold: Taking inspiration from the beautiful silver collection in the Museum of Edinburgh we will try to imitate the intricate scrolls and designs using metal foil embossing. Learn and experiment with embossing foil and try your hand at creating a unique plaque, bookmark or decoration for your home. 10.30 am – 12.30 pm or 1.30 pm – 3.30 pm With artist Lindsey Hamilton. For booking and further information contact Margaret Findlay on 0131 529 3963/2 or 529 5212. margaret.findlay@edinburgh.gov.uk Museum of Edinburgh, Huntly House, Canongate, Royal Mile Sunday 21 October The Enchanted Wood 1.00 pm — 4.00 pm. Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh. Garden Wide. A day of storytelling indoor and outdoor, as Edinburgh's Botanic Garden is peopled by fairy tales and magical trees including Apple Day, and the One Oak exhibition. In the yurt, palmhouse, tepee, Chinese Garden and the Harp pavilion - stories of the natural world and its magical wonders rustle in the undergrowth and whisper in the breeze! Part of the Scottish International Storytelling Festival 19th - 28th October.

Sunday 21st October Grimms Fairy Tales from the DEFA Foundation.

The Singing Ringing Tree Filmhouse. 4pm (75mins). £2.50 | 8+ (German with English subtitles). Supported by the Goethe Institut.

Sunday 21st October The Jack & Jill Market 10.30am-1.30pm 40 stalls of quality nearly-new baby & kids clothes, cots, toys, buggies, bikes and all the rest (0-9 yrs) £1 Adults.

West Lothian College, Almondvale Crescent, Livingston EH54 7EP www.jackandjillmarket.co.uk Sunday 21st October The Jack & Jill Market 10.30am – 1.30pm 60 stalls of quality, nearly-new baby & kids clothes, toys, buggies, bikes, equipment, etc (0-9 yrs).

Meadowbank Leisure Centre, London Rd, Edinburgh, EH6 7AE www.jackandjillmarket.co.uk Sunday 21 October Bags of Art (Ages 4-12) 2-4pm. Collect a bag of activities from the art station to help your family explore the collection and create your own artworks. Led by artists Tessa Asquith-Lamb and Louise Fraser. Supported by the Friends of the National Galleries of Scotland. Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art One Thursday 25 October Nappuccino 10am - 11.30am. Get free advice and information from parents with lots of experience of using real nappies, see different types of nappies and if you’d like, apply for a trial pack or lending kit. Duncan Place Resource Centre, Duncan Place (just off Duke St, Leith), Edinburgh, EH6 8HW Please see http://www.changeworks.org.uk/shared/edinburgh/536/ to keep up to date with our events listings.

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30 FAMILIES EDINBURGH ISSUE 74

Thursday 25 October Glamour. The ultimate shopping and pampering event set in the luxurious George Hotel. Tickets are priced at £20 Please see website for more information and special offers – www.GlamourEdinburgh.co.uk Friday 26 October Tell-A-Story-Day: Old and Young In association with Luminate Festival. Wise or wicked, brave or fearful, heroes and villains, old and young. Traditional stories bridge the generations, and show how we share the same emotions and challenges.

For more information on the TASDCampaign please visit our website or contact Davide Panzeri on davide@scottishstorytellingcentre.com or 0131 652 3272.

Saturday 27th October Glow in the Park. Fettes College, Edinburgh 5.50pm.

Royal Blind’s Annual Children’s Sponsored Walk, theme this year is Magic & Illusion, so magic something up to wear! You could help us break the Guinness World Record for the “Largest Magic Lesson” so you too could be a record breaker!!! Everyone must be registered before the event - £5 per child, 3 & under free & £2 per adult. For registration, more information and last year’s photos visit www.royalblind.org/glowinthepark Saturday 27 October Treasure Trove. Make your own museum piece at the Museum of Edinburgh. Craft an object using air dry clay, dry herbs, sand or moss to make your own version of a bowl. 10.30 am – 12.30 pm. Family Art Workshops Drop in sessions with museum staff Join our Visitor Assistants Linzi Bootman and Ruby Tulloch for an arty drop-in family session. Museum of Edinburgh, Huntly House, Canongate, Royal Mile.

Saturday 27 - Sunday 28 October Into Deep Space 12.00 noon - 9.00 pm. Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh. John Hope Gateway. A weekend of astronomy fun for all the family in partnership with The Royal Observatory. With a host of activities which explore all aspects of astronomy including comet making and meteorite handling. With a very special late night opening on Sunday 28th where visitors will get an introduction to astronomy and the night's sky, meet the astronomers and partake in stargazing activities using powerful telescopes. Stargazing sessions from 7pm-9pm. Sign up on the night, first come, first served basis.

Saturday 27 October Ghosts And Ghouls – With artist Louise K Fraser. Experience our magical FREE family Saturday drop-in workshops and lose yourself in our eclectic mix of old toys and memories. All our drop-in sessions run between 10.30am-12.30pm and 1.30-3.30pm at Museum of Childhood, 42 High Street, Royal Mile, Edinburgh EH1 1TG Sunday, 28 October Holy Corner Community Playgroup Halloween Disco.

Come see our haunted disco, scary magician and parent’s chill out area. Doors open at 2.30.

Tickets cost £5 for children (under 2s free) and £2 for adults. Included in the price of a child ticket is entrance to the disco, magician, snack, unlimited drink, and a gift bag. For more information please call playgroup on 228 2768. Everyone is welcome so please joins us for a frightfully good time! Polworth Church, 36 Polworth Terrace.

Sunday 28th October Halloween Party 3-5pm. We’ll be making spooky potions and creepy crawly bath bombs followed by a ‘Halloween Feast’ – fit for - Ghouls, Ghosts, Witches and friends….. The fun starts at 3pm, price £15 per head (includes potion and bath bombs).

Booking and dressing up essential……www.honeypotceramics.com Sunday 28 October Meet the Ancestors ©Andy McGregor Spooky Stories (Ages 4-12) 2pm, 2.45pm & 3pm (30 mins). Join storyteller and musician Marion Kenny in our library for some spooky Scottish Hallowe'en tales and music inspired by our portraits. Scottish National Portrait Gallery Wednesday 31st October Halloween Spooky Supper 4.30pm – 6pm £7.95 per child. Children are invited to come in fancy dress and join our spooky supper. There will be Halloween activities for all to enjoy and a prize for the best dressed. Ticket price includes children’s meal and soft drink. Advance booking required.* For full details about all events, times and how to join Dobbies Little Seedlings Club please contact Dobbies Garden World Melville – 0131 663 1941 or visit www.dobbies.com

Competitions and Offers Families Reader Offer from ½ price PC Health Check for just £27!

Drop off & collect the same day at our Colinton office.

For a more efficient, cleaner and faster PC for a fraction of the cost.

Telephone: 0131 477 2644- book your PC in now.

Global kids hit Moshi Monsters™

are giving 5 lucky readers the chance to win a free copy of the much anticipated new video game, Moshi Monsters: Moshlings Theme Park™ available on Nintendo 3DS™ and Nintendo DS™.

Moshlings Theme Park takes fans on a journey into an all-new Moshi universe.

The game invites players to explore exciting new locations, uncover secret codes and unlock exclusive content in this thrilling journey to get the theme park back to its former glory! Moshlings Theme Park is available to pre-order now and is out October 26th - Get your copy NOW! RRP - £29.99 (Nintendo DS) £34.99 (Nintendo 3DS) For your chance to win a copy of the game go to www.familiesedinburgh.co.uk/offers and tell us whether you want it for the Nintendo 3DS or DS.

Glamour is the ultimate shopping and pampering event set in the luxurious George Hotel.

Where you can indulge in some of the beauty treatments available in the Glamour Pamper Room, treat yourself to some retail therapy in Glamour Shopping Mall and then relax and have a drink and a chat in the Glamour Lounge. Glamour will be debuting on Thursday 25th October at the George Hotel, Edinburgh. The event starts at 12 noon (till late) where guests will receive a welcome glass of pink bubbly and a Goodie bag for the first 500 people with offers, discounts and sample products.

Tickets are priced at £20 and advance sales and promotions are available where tickets can be purchased at a reduced rate of £15.

Please see website for more information – www.GlamourEdinburgh.co.uk

r u o m a Gl

a Win y t r a P t a

Edinburgh for 10 children

Gambado Edinburgh, located on Fountain Park offers a host of fantastic value for money party packages. We cater for Birthday Parties from your child’s first to eleventh birthday!

And we have just launched NEW prices!

Prices start from £7.95/ toddler for a weekday toddler party to just £8.95/ child for a 4 year old plus to celebrate afterschool or £10.95/child at the weekend.

Sit back and relax as we provide• Balloons, blowers, invites, thank • 2 hours of fun- 120 mins play and you cards 40 mins party entertainment and hot and cold buffet • Themes, adult food and a visit from • One of the best party hosts in town your favourite character such as Games Boy, the Pink Pig or Fireman • A hot and cold yummy party buffet Sammy (extra costs) catering to match all children’s favourites and unlimited sugar free And lots more! squash For more information or to book at your convenience on line please visit our website www.gambado.com or call our Party Bookings team on 0844 375 9494

For your chance to win a party for 10 children (any package, any time subject to availability), go to www.familiesedinburgh.co.uk/offers and answer the following question: Name one character that can visit your party? T&C apply

We have 5 pairs of tickets to giveaway, all you need to do is go to

www.familiesedinburgh.co.uk/offers and answer a simple question.

The Bump, Baby & Child Show is the ultimate shopping and information event.

Designed specifically with parents and parents-to-be in mind it is easy to navigate and has all the facilities you could need. What's more, as it is set in the luxurious Roxburghe Hotel on George Street - right at the heart of Edinburgh city centre it couldn’t be easier to get to. The event offers a fun-filled day with the main event hall offering a wide selection of products to select from, a demonstration area, children’s play area, family coffee shop, expert parenting advice and of course the not to be missed show offers all under the one roof. For the lucky first 500 guests through the door they will also receive a fantastic Goodie Bag full of offers, discounts and sample products.

For your chance to win one of five pairs of tickets to the event on 7th October go to www.familiesedinburgh.co.uk and tell us who the shows main sponsor is.

31 FAMILIES EDINBURGH ISSUE 74

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