MADE (Mums & Dads Edinburgh) - Nov/Dec 2016 by MADE (Mums and Dads Edinburgh) magazine

made

NOV/DEC 2016 FREE

mums and dads edinburgh

GIFT IDEAS for the whole family

CHRISTMAS THEATRE for all ages

LITTLE STEPS to big kid freedom MAKE YOUR OWN

CHRISTMAS JUMPER! n De s â&#x20AC;&#x2122; nn W Je S NO I

Fun. Food. Family. Friends.

P L AY CA F E

see inside for e your exclusiv

DE MA COUNT DIS

www.turtledoveplaycafe.co.uk

d a e r p S . . . d r o w e th Jenn’s Den IS NOW

A new name There’s a reason turtledoves come in pairs in “Twelve Days of Christmas”. For centuries, they have been an emblem of love and friendship. Jenn’s Den has established itself as a place for family and friends to come for a great time and to make memories. Now under new management, TurtleDove will continue to build a community where everyone is made to feel welcome.

P L AY CA F E Fun. Food. Family. Friends.

With new treats

The same great time

We’re introducing a loyalty card for the whole family to earn treats, a brand new website launches on

6th November, and there’ll be competitions and spot prizes throughout the year.

31 Corbiehill Rd, Edinburgh EH4 5BQ Tel: 0131 312 7077 www.turtledoveplaycafe.co.uk

We’re keeping your old favourites including the dressing up rail, pirate ship and Crawlers Room. A full programme of classes and activities will continue to run along with birthday parties, monthly memberships and summer passes.

Quote ‘MADE’ to receive 1 FREE drink with any food order*

Jenn, Wishing Tony Ali and ove for lots of l e xx the futur

* Offer valid until 31st December 2016

made

welcome

Contributors

We asked our contributors what they’d like to find in their Christmas stocking this year…

Dawn Geddes

Something bookish. This year I’d love a penguin classic with one of those gorgeous cloth bound covers - something gothic like The Picture of Dorian Gray or Frankenstein would be perfect!

Caroline Phipps-Urch

I’m a total chocolate snob so any treats for my stocking would have to come from Edward & Irwyn. Based in Edinburgh they make some of the best chocolate I’ve ever tried!

Fiona Hourston

A chocolate orange, Christmas socks, Christmas lippy and a very sparkly piece of jewellery!

contact MADE, PO BOX 28825, Edinburgh, EH14 9BA T: 07738 068022 E: mademag@live.co.uk www.mademagazine.co.uk facebook.com/MADEmag twitter.com/MADE_magazine

The MADE family has recently moved house, and I can quite honestly say one of the things I’m most excited about is having our first ever fireplace and being able to hang the kids’ stockings on it on Christmas Eve! It really is the little things! I’ve already ordered a beautiful garland from The Little Felt Factory to decorate it (see her details on page 67) and lots of the stocking fillers have been bought from pages 38 and 39. We’ll be hosting Christmas Day and lots of parties to show off the new place, so thank goodness for Fiona Hourston’s top tips for being the ‘hostess with the mostess’! (See pages 60 and 61). 2016 has been a brilliant year for our family and we’re looking forward to relaxing and reflecting over the festive season and enjoying the company of friends and family. We really don’t need any more gifts than that, but if I was asked what I would like to find in my stocking, I would have to say, some fancy bath oil, a good book and if Mr. MADE is reading….anything from Spektakular! See you in 2017!

Louise x

Editor & Publisher Louise Wilson Designer

Marie Martin, MAMi Designs

Sales Executive

Caroline McClean

Online Events

Emily Watson

Writers

Dawn Geddes, Caroline Phipps-Urch, Fiona Hourston

Columnists

Kirsty Nicholls, Edinburgh for Under Fives

Agony Aunt

Jojo Sutherland

Cover

Blue Sky Photography

Printer

Stephens & George

All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without permission is strictly prohibited. While every care has been taken in compiling MADE magazine to ensure that it is correct at the time of going to press. MADE (Mums And Dads Edinburgh) assume no responsibility for any effects from errors or omissions.

made NOV / DEC 2016

Visit ribbyhall.co.uk for pricing & availability or call us FREE on 0800 107 0522 today!

*Price based on a 4 berth cottage between 2nd January - 16th February 2017. Subject to change & availability.

www.mademagazine.co.uk

Contents nov / dec

62 25 32 8 News

13 Competitions 15

Big Kid Freedom

By Dawn Geddes

Gift Guide: Babies The 3 Rs and ICT

Digital literacy at school

According to kids…

Gift Guide: Children 25 Christmas Theatre for all ages 31 Trust Jojo 20

If you need advice…

Gift Guide: Mums & Dads 34 Diaries 32

What to do in Nov & Dec

Gift Guide: Stocking Fillers 41 Mum’s New World 38

Blissful Ignorance

20 made NOV / DEC 2016

Beliefs

Gift Guide: Foodies Christmas Jumpers

Make your own!

Shopping for…

Christmas finishing touches

Lifestyle

Hostess with the mostess

Hobbies

Foam Dart Thunder

64 66

Out & About Tried & Tested

Michelle Brown PR Workshops

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news TurtleDove

has landed!

Jenn’s DEN is now TurtleDove Play Cafe This November, there are some big changes happening in Davidson Mains. After three and a half years, the team behind Jenn’s DEN are moving on to new adventures. Now under the new management of locals Debbie and Gordon Rigby, from 6th November the venue will be TurtleDove Play Cafe. All of your favourite toys, birthday parties and the friendly, relaxing atmosphere will remain, yet there are also some new treats coming, too. With a new loyalty card families can earn points every time they visit, which can be quickly converted into discounts and freebies. A brand new website with up-to-the-minute events calendars, advice for new parents and competitions will also launch in November. There are also plans to create new events for older children and grown-ups in the New Year. Visit www.turtledoveplaycafe. co.uk for more information. Quote MADE and receive one free drink when ordering food. (Offer valid until 31st Dec 2016)

Spektakular Gifts Spektakular on Colinton Road (Holy Corner) is a firm favourite with style-conscious locals, stocking Scandinavian design-led brands such as Bosign, Stelton, Klippan, and Pappelina; their unique pieces are the perfect finishing touch for your home and make wonderful gifts. Now, sister shop, Lilla, just two doors up from Spektakular, brings that same distinct style and individuality but this time for children. Stockists of Ferm Living, Tulipop and OMM Design, and with funky gift ideas, creative toys, fun lighting, cutlery and stationery you will be amazed at what you will find. Lilla is the only Edinburgh stockist of popular Danish toy, Plus-Plus, which sells out every time it hits the shelves, so don’t leave your visit to Lilla too late! Both shops’ range of Scandi brands will have you sorted for Christmas in no time.

Party Hair for Dads Dads Rock and Paterson SA Hairdressing are hosting free Dad and Child Christmas Hair Workshops helping dads in Edinburgh achieve Christmas party hair. The workshops are on Sat 12th November (10am - 11am) at Prentice Centre, Granton Mains Avenue and Tues 22nd November (5pm - 6pm) at Whale Arts, Westburn Grove. Booking is essential via David@dadsrock.org.uk

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A new version created and directed by Anthony Neilson

26 NOVEMBER — 31 DECEMBER 2016

Sweet Memories Seasonal Gingerbread shoots are taking place at Blue Sky Photography from Monday 7th November through till Sunday 20th November - the perfect start to the festive season. Kids are warmly invited to pop on their Christmas jumpers, wooly hat and scarves or Santa suits and join the Blue Sky team in their studio. Gingerbread shoots start at £15 with Christmas gifts from £18. To find out more go to blueskyphotography.co.uk or call 0131 447 1100.

The Gift of Music A great choice for singers and musicians of all ages and abilities is a Recording Studio Gift Voucher for a recording session at Royal Mile Recording Experiences in Edinburgh’s Royal Mile. The studio has been established since 1992 and aims to provide positive first time recording studio experiences for everyone. Royal Mile Recording Experiences also run popular recording studio parties for any occasion including kids and adults’ birthdays, office parties and hen and stag parties, visit www.rmre.co.uk, email info@rmre.co.uk or call the studio on 0131 556 4882. made NOV / DEC 2016

Don’t be late! Book now for our magical Victorian Christmas show. Recommended Age 5+

Tickets:

0131 248 4848

lyceum.org.uk

Royal Lyceum Theatre Company Ltd is a Registered Company No. SC062065, and Scottish Charity Registered No. SC010509

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news Ribby Hall Village: 2017 Five-Star Short Breaks & Holidays

New Traditions Blessings & Blossoms Children’s Boutique in Corstorphine has everything your little one needs for a special occasion. And what could be more special than Christmas! With traditional tartans, winter warmers and the cosiest snow leopard jackets, you can be sure to find the exact outfit you need this season. Their brands include Mayoral, Sarah Louise, Little Darlings, Linzi Jay, A*Dee, as well as Blessings and Blossoms exclusives. Pop in to their highstreet shop to keep up-to-date with all the new Christmas stock.

FISHERMAN’S REACH AT RIBBY HALL VILLAGE

Set in 100 acres of beautiful Lancashire countryside, only 15 minutes from Blackpool and Lytham St Annes, Ribby Hall Village is the perfect location to enjoy a staycation. You’ll love the luxury self-catering holiday cottages and larger group accommodation, activities for the whole family, awardwinning dining and unforgettable entertainment. Book early for school holidays and Ribby Hall Village will apply discounts of up to £65 off July and August fill week breaks – so you can make your money go further! (Limited availability). Or, if you are flexible with dates, save up to £100 when you book one of the following holiday start dates: Jan 9th or 30th, Feb 27th, Mar 17th, 20th or 31st, Apr 17, May 8th or 15th, Jun 12th, Sep 8th or 25th, Oct 6th, Nov 6th, Dec 11th. For more information call 0800 107 0522 or visit www.ribbyhall.co.uk

Adopt an Elf If your family doesn’t already have its own Scout Elf then you need to adopt one! Book yourselves in to A Wonderful World any weekend from 19 November - 17 December and your little one will be mesmerised by Santa, Mrs Claus and will learn all about Scout Elves. He/she will be presented with their own elf to take home to make Christmas even more magical. (Treehouse in Stockbridge can help you find your Scout Elf ahead of Adoption Day.) www.wonderworldparties.co.uk

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news New Letters

Step into Christmas Find time for last-minute Christmas shopping whilst the kids (aged 4-12) have lots of festive fun at the Step It Up Dance Christmas Camp. Led by fully qualified Christmas Elves, the camp will be packed with crafts including making Christmas crackers, cards, gifts and papier mâché decorations. Throw in lots of high energy party games and of course Step It Up Dance dance moves! Go to www.stepitupdance.co.uk to book your space (£30) for the Dance Camp on Sun 18 Dec, 10am - 2pm at Broughton High School.

New from Little Letter Studio is a charming collection of woodland alphabet prints. Inspired by British flora and fauna and Beatrix Potter’s much-loved tales, these original designs can be personalised to include a child’s name. This collection, along with other alphabet prints by Little Letter Studio, will be featured and available to buy in Summerhall’s shop until 13 November. Also available to purchase via www.littleletterstudio.com

Stop Screen-Time Tantrums Each week give your child an allowance for screen time in the form of Time Tokens which they keep in their wallet with their timer. When they want to use a screen/device, they must trade in relevant Time Token(s) and start their timer, when the timer goes off, that session is over. When they have finished their allowance of Tokens no more screentime till the next weekly allowance. Simple! WIN! made NOV / DEC 2016

We have two sets of Time Tokens to give away. To be in with a chance of winning, email competitions@mademagazine. co.uk with your name and address.

PROMOTION

Conifox Nurseries

irkliston is Edinburgh’s latest ‘it’ place to visit for both children and adults, thanks to Conifox Nurseries’ recent revamp. With an exciting adventure park to keep children of all ages amused and a high quality bistro serving delicious coffee and food, there is something for everyone all year round. The team behind the existing nursery have been working endlessly to ensure the highest quality fun is injected into their 25 acre venue. With a massive jelly-belly and sunken trampolines to bounce on, go-karts and ride-along tractors to cater to all age groups, foot-golf (which the dads seem to love!) a picnic area with bespoke tables and a playground that can be observed from the comfort of the café, it’s a great day-out for everyone. But adults are not expected to just sit and watch - Conifox has invested heavily in quality equipment so everyone can join in. Mums, dads, carers and grandparents are all more than welcome to bounce alongside the children, and race them round the track on the go-karts! Located in Kirkliston, not far from Edinburgh Airport, this new family-run venue knows the importance of great fun and great food, so a trip to their Stable Bistro is a must when you visit. Only the freshest ingredients are used to make the most delicious cakes, scones, lunches

and treats. And their Sunday Roast is worth a visit on its own! With plenty of space inside to navigate buggies, highchairs and baby-facilities are on hand so the whole family can enjoy dining together before or after all the outdoor fun. Owner and Director, James Gammell told us, ‘As a dad myself, I realise the importance of family days out, so it’s great that we’ve been able to bring these new facilities to Kirkliston, to allow plenty of family fun time’. Mr Gammell continued, ‘We’re delighted with the public’s response to the new adventure park and bistro, and this is just the start! We have more plans in the pipeline too. We’re going to install a wooden fort at some point, and we’re growing our own trees for an amazing Conifox maze which will be ready in 2017’. Conifox Nurseries, established in 1965, is actually the largest grower and supplier of trees, plants and shrubs in Scotland. So, when you are buying your Christmas Tree this year, Conifox is the place to go. Available from 28 November, their range of Norman Firs and Norway Spruces range in size from 4ft to 10ft. Visit their indoor ‘tree-room’ to find the one for you and have it wrapped ready to take home. Conifox even supply commercial venues with trees up to 60ft!

www.mademagazine.co.uk

Conifox Nurseries Garden Centre Adventure Park Stable Bistro Christmas Trees

Stables Bistro 9am - 5pm â&#x20AC;˘ Adventure Park 10am - 5pm

Conifox Nurseries, Kirkliston, Edinburgh EH29 9ER 0131 333 3334

www.conifox.co.uk

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news Oscha

Scooterpeg If your school-run includes a scramble of coats and bags whilst tripping over straying scooters then let Scooterpeg restore some order to this all-too-common chaos. Finally there is a peg for the scooter - simply insert one end of the handle into the specially moulded peg and the scooter stays firmly in place off the floor and out of harm’s way!

Dalmeny

Festive Fair Dalmeny Primary School Festive Fair invites you to experience a magical Santa’s Grotto and indulge in a bespoke Christmas Market with real Christmas trees, tasty treats from The Little Parlour, luxurious hampers, unique gifts from local artists; florists, brewers, chocolatiers, designers, and some traditional family fun to win lots of prizes and luxury items. The Fair is on Dec 3rd at Dalmeny Primary School, children go free and adults £2, 10am-12.30pm. Everyone is welcome!

Oscha baby slings provide a convenient way to carry your child in a secure and calm environment, making busy, festive crowds simpler to care for other little ones with ease. Available in 7 sizes, the Jacquard woven baby wraps come in a multitude of colours and patterns for a stylish and comfortable way to carry your child. Roses Eros, pictured, is woven from 100% organic cotton and is perfect for all year round. www.oschaslings.com

Want a girl?

Move to Shetland! It’s miles from the Scottish mainland, with less than six hours of daylight a day in midwinter – but Fast Sale Today has revealed that if you’re planning a pink pregnancy, Shetland is the place to be. The remote Scottish islands are one of the few places in the UK where you’re more likely to give birth to a girl than a boy.

Get your skates on! Special offer for MADE readers Skate any day at Murrayfield Ice Rink and enjoy a minimum 90 minutes session, ample free parking and no need to worry about the weather! Quote “MADE” at the box-office and get FREE skate-hire on weekday afternoons throughout December. Session times are at www.murrayfieldicerink.co.uk and on page 14.

www.mademagazine.co.uk

competition

WIN To win A or B simply email your name, contact details and answer to competitions@mademagazine.co.uk or enter via www.mademagazine.co.uk before December 2nd. Please mark your entry Competition A or B as the subject.

•

competition •

To be in with a chance of winning this festive day out, just answer this question: How many restaurants are in The Centre?

For more information go to www.thecentrelivingston.com

competition •

T&Cs. The winners will be picked at random by MADE magazine on 2 Dec 2016. Competition entries are restricted to Edinburgh, Lothians and surrounding areas only. Editor’s decision is final. No cash alternative is available and prizes are nontransferrable. Please indicate on your entry if you would prefer not to receive information from MADE and any of its partners.

competition

The Edinburgh Capitals professional ice hockey team play at the highest level of the sport in the UK. See them at Murrayfield Ice rink most Sundays (see the www.edcapitals.com website for fixtures) between September and March. The sport is hugely popular with families with children who love the speed of the game, the singing, and of course mascot, Pawz!

•

The winning family will also have the chance to enjoy a Christmas shopping spree with a £100 Gift Card, culminating with a meal at any of The Centre’s 20 restaurants, including Nandos and Wagamama, where they can sit back, relax and enjoy the festive atmosphere.

competition

The Centre, Livingston, which boasts a fantastic mix of over 155 retailers, including Build-A-Bear, Smiggle, Debenhams and M&S is giving one lucky family the chance to win a Festive Day Out, which includes a VIP visit to see Santa in his enchanting Grotto and receive a special gift and photo souvenir.

Supporters see exciting end-to-end action on the ice, and off the ice there is a chance to meet some of the players, or have your photo taken with Pawz the Lion. To be in with a chance of winning a Family Ticket to a match of your choice, just answer this question: What is The Edinburgh Capitals mascot called?

For more information and fixtures go to www.edcapitals.com

The winner of The Centre prize must be willing to take part in any publicity/marketing, including social media; and the Gift Cards which can be used in over 80 shops and all 20 restaurants will expire 12 months after issue.

made NOV / DEC 2016

1313

experience edinburgh’s elite

ICE HOCKEY TEAM YOUR EDINBURGH CAPITALS play most Sundays at Murrayﬁeld Ice Rink between September and March. For more details, or to book tickets, visit our website or contact us using the details below.

WWW.EDCAPITALS.COM @EDCAPITALS /EDCAPITALS TICKETS AVAILABLE FROM WWW.TICKETSOURCE.COM/EDINBURGHCAPITALS

little steps TO BIG KID FREEDOM WRITTEN BY Dawn

Geddes

As our children grow, it’s only right that they should be allowed more freedom; but with newspaper pages filled with terrifying accounts of child abduction and road accidents, it’s becoming increasingly difficult for parents to take that first step.

made NOV / DEC 2016

BIG KID FREEDOM

t’s a scary prospect that I’m currently facing. My own daughter is seven year old and until recently, my husband and I hadn’t even considered letting her venture further than our own back garden. And yet when I think back at my own 1980s childhood, I played outside with my friends at her age regularly – without adult supervision. From swinging on Tarzan swings in the woods to hunting for treasure along the sandy shores of my home town - my childhood was filled with adventure. This is, of course, what I want for my own children too and the reason that we’ve started preparing her to take her first tentative steps outside alone. After all, this is what parenting is technically all about; slowly but steadily preparing our children to be independent, so that one day they will be able to live and thrive on their own. But just how do you know when your child is ready to begin this big journey and how do you go about preparing them to venture out into that big bad world alone?

A little perspective

Whilst the newspapers are filled with horrific stories, it’s important to remember that the risks of letting our children outside are exactly the same as they were when we were little, we are just more aware of them now. Although it’s difficult, we need to try and keep these stories in perspective and remember that they are the exception rather than the rule. By educating our children and keeping close tabs on their whereabouts, there’s no reason why our children can’t enjoy the same freedom that we did during our youth.

Timing is everything

There are many factors to consider when deciding whether or not your child is ready for more freedom. Your child’s age is of course one factor, but it’s important to consider his or her capabilities too. While some children may be pretty streetwise at seven, others may not be able to look out for themselves until they are much older. Where you live is also another factor. Your child might be fine playing outside on a quiet cul-de-sac where you can keep an eye on them, but may not be ready to play next to an

“

This is what parenting is technically all about; slowly but steadily preparing our children to be independent

”

urban city road. Start small by letting them walk round the corner to a friend’s house or part of the way to school, and build up to bigger adventures.

Set limitations

Once you’ve decided that the time is right, you need to talk to your child about staying safe.

www.mademagazine.co.uk

BIG KID FREEDOM

Road safety and stranger danger are important issues, but there are also other things to consider such as how far your child will be allowed to venture, places that are off limits, whether they will be allowed to visit friend’s houses without your knowledge and what they should do if they hurt themselves. Work out some ground rules together so that your child knows exactly what is expected of them and make sure that they know their address and at least two phone numbers off by heart in case they find themselves in some sort of emergency. It’s also a good idea to remind them that if they ever find themselves in danger or in a situation that they don’t like, that they should come home immediately so that you can tackle it together. made NOV / DEC 2016

Road safety

Although your child may be aware of road safety, research has shown that they can’t fully grasp the concept until they are around seven years old. Make sure that your child is ready to cross the road on their own by discussing the dangers and practicing crossing safely together. Road safety videos such as the Think! campaigns, which are available on YouTube, are a great way to reinforce safety messages.

Stranger danger

Child abduction is every parent’s worst nightmare, but trying to ensure that our children stay away from strangers without completely terrifying them is a tricky but important balance to master. Talk

BIG KID FREEDOM

to your child and explain the reasons that they shouldn’t speak to strangers or go anyplace with adult without speaking to you first, whether they know the person or not. Tell them that sadly not everyone in the world is a good person and explain just how upset and worried you would be if you didn’t know where they were.

Keep in touch

Mobile phones are a great way of staying in touch with your kids when they are out and about, but many parents are reluctant to buy their child one due to the negative impacts of social media such as cyber bullying. Thankfully there are now great alternatives on the market now including the Moochies Kids Watch (www. moochiesforkids.co.uk) which links to an adult’s mobile phone, allowing you to track your child’s whereabouts, ensuring that they don’t leave set boundaries and enabling you and your child to contact each other, along with a number of other pre-installed contact numbers. It even has an SOS button which allows the child to record and

send a message to you if they can’t get hold of you immediately. While this might sound a bit big brotherish – it is one way of allowing your child some carefully monitored freedom, while you both get to grips with their new independence.

Take it slow!

Your child is bound to be exciting about their new found freedom, but it’s important to take it slowly and extend their boundaries gradually. Take the time to chat to your child about their new parent free expeditions and ask them what it’s like to be out in the world on their own. Don’t forget to tell them some stories from your own childhood – you never know they might just want to recreate one of your nostalgic adventures! n

Find out more... For further advice on letting your child play outside, visit: www.nspcc.org.uk/parenting

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BROWN HORSE PLUSH TOY £20 www.miramira.ie LO TOY VAN LONDON CAR SET £14.99 ELF ON THE SHELF & BOOK £27.99 SCOOTERSAURUS 3D HELMET £29.95 LIMITED EDITION SILVER FAIRY DOOR £19.99 ALL FROM Treehouse, Stockbridge www.treehousechildrenswear.co.uk

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55 Bernard Street Leith, Edinburgh EH6 6SL Tel: 0131 554 4075 OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK

80 High Street Dunbar, East Lothian EH42 1JH Tel: 01368 864 567

Stylish, Distinctive, Contemporary, Happy and Fun Scandinavian Designs for the Whole Family

get2flux Spektakular 11 Colinton Road, Holy Corner, Bruntsfield. EH10 5DP • 0131 629 0941 hello@spektakular.co.uk www.spektakular.co.uk

A6 Flux Flyer.indd 2

Lilla 15 Colinton Road, Holy Corner, Bruntsfield. EH10 5DP 0131 447 2396 lilla@spektakular.co.uk

07/10/2016 11:05

NOW

STOCKISTS OF MICRO SCOOTERS Treehouse has a whole range of mini micro and maxi micro scooters in lots of colours. Plus loads of accessories!

WIN

A MINI MICRO DELUXE SCOOTER IN TIME FOR CHRISTMAS!

To be in with a chance of winning, simply email info@treehousechildrenswear.co.uk before 9 Dec and tell them why you should win.

Toys, Books, Gifts, Clothes and Shoes Treehouse Childrenswear in the heart of Stockbridge • 10-12 Hamilton Place, EH3 5AU • 0131 2251242

www.treehousechildrenswear.co.uk

Meet Santa at the Botanics Daily from 17 - 24 December 10:30–12:30, 13:30–15.30 | Free entry

This December Santa is coming to the Botanics. He will be making his base in the John Hope Gateway visitor centre where he will meet and greet children and parents, and pose for photos. For full details, visit www.rbge.org.uk/santa

BBs 10% off

Blessings & Blossoms Children’s Boutique

all new A/W16 stock

132 St Johns Road. 0131 334 8322

Greenhill Montessori Nursery Let your child’s adventure begin!

P Children from 18 months to Primary Age P Hours from 9.00 to 16.00 (Care 8.15 to 17.30) P Billingual, with Native speaking teachers in both English and Spanish P Online progress tracking system for each child P We accept Childcare Vouchers P In Partnership with Edinburgh Council P Follows the Curriculum for Excellence

Control the cameras and zoom in on the super-cute seals. Only 30 mins from Edinburgh. www.seabird.org Image © Maggie Sheddan / Scottish Charity no SC025837

DISCOVERY CENTRE · BOAT TRIPS · CAFÉ · GIFT SHOP

Our Values Here at Greenhill Montessori Nursery we are committed to providing a safe, loving and nurturing environment for each child who joins us. We engage your child socially, emotionally and educationally to ensure their success in the future. Their happiness, security and self confidence are our main goals. 3 Greenhill Park, Morningside, Edinburgh EH10 4DW Tel: 01316290787 info@greenhillmontessori.co.uk www.greenhillmontessori.co.uk

ish Scien

Music

C a

i at re

Dram

eme Mov

Outdoors

a m t s s i T r h h e a tr e C

Edinburgh excels itself at Christmas time with an array of festive shows and pantomimes to engage and entertain every single member of the family. 2016 is no different with adventures with Alice, Jack, Aladdin, Hansel and Gretel, Black Beauty and too many penguins! Book your tickets, sit back and relax and enjoy a festive theatre treat.

Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland When Alice sees a snappily dressed white rabbit holding a pocket watch, she knows today is not going to be like any other – an adventure is beginning! Follow Alice down the rabbit hole and tumble into Wonderland - a place where everyone and everything seems to be stark raving mad and things keep getting ‘curiouser and curiouser’.

Jack and the Beanstalk Jack’s Back!!! Follow Jack and climb a beanstalk of gigantic proportions to cloudland in this spectacular family pantomime. Doomed to sell his trusty cow, join Jack as he fights to save the beautiful Princess, outwit the evil giant and win the hand of the girl he loves. Expect laughs, music, dazzling special effects, magic beans and bundles of audience participation in this giant of a pantomime! Starring Allan Stewart as Dame Trot, Andy Gray as Farmer Hector and Grant Stott as Fleshcreep.

ROYAL LYCEUM THEATRE EDINBURGH www.lyceum.org.uk Sat 26 November - Sat 31 December Age: 5+ BSL Interpreted Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland Wed 14 December at 7pm Captioned Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland Sat 3 Dec at 2pm

KING’S THEATRE www.edtheatres.com Sat 26 November - Sun 15 January Relaxed Jack and the Beanstalk For an audience with additional support needs Fri 6 January at 2pm made NOV / DEC 2016

Scottish Ballet: Hansel & Gretel

The RSNO Christmas Concert We’re walking in the air… It isn’t Christmas until The Snowman has taken you on his magical journey through the winter sky. Enjoy this special showing of the festive classic on large screen, accompanied by the RSNO and narrated by a special star guest. Hosted by the irrepressible Christopher Bell, this Christmas party for the whole family is filled with seasonal favourites, carols old and new - and, of course, a chance for everyone to sing along! THE USHER HALL www.usherhall.co.uk Sun 18 December 3pm

Scrumptiously surreal and with more than a sprinkle of festive charm - take an enchanting journey with Scotland’s national dance company this winter. Humperdinck’s bewitching score is performed live by the Scottish Ballet Orchestra. Hansel & Gretel takes creative twists and turns inspired by the Grimm Brother’s famous fairy tale. A carousel of delicious treats from start to finish, this is a ballet full to the brim with magic; from toys that come to life to a beautiful ballerina who is not at all what she seems. Co-starring talented young dancers from across Scotland, Hansel & Gretel is full of youthful glee and mischief. FESTIVAL THEATRE Sat 10 December - Sat 31 December Age: 6+ Wee Hansel and Gretel A wee version of a big ballet... This specially adapted hour long performance is perfect for young families. Fri 16 December at 3pm Relaxed Hansel and Gretel For an audience of all ages with additional support needs Tue 20 December at 1pm (1 hour)

www.mademagazine.co.uk

Black Beauty

Too Many Penguins? How many penguins are too many penguins? Mr Polaro thinks that one is more than enough, thank you very much. Penguina wants someone to play with. Just one friend, well maybe two, or three... How many penguins can you get in one space? Squeeze into this fun theatrical experience, created especially for 1 - 4 year olds, to find out. It might get crowded, but you are promised the arrival of the penguins, however many, will entertain and delight. THE STUDIO AT FESTIVAL THEATRE www.edtheatres.com Wed 14 December - Sat 24 December (not Sun 18)

Aladdin A festive treat full of fun and laughter with oodles of gags, local references, chart hits, outrageous costumes and lots of singing, dancing and shouting out. A fabulous cast of professional actors are supported by a chorus of talented, young performers from across East Lothian. BRUNTON THEATRE www.thebrunton.co.uk Tues 22 November - Sat 31 December

made NOV / DEC 2016

In a stable yard, with pitchforks and straw bales at the ready, Andy and Andy take the bit firmly between their teeth and tell the classic tale of Black Beauty. Saddle up, jump on and gallop headlong into a story where loneliness gives way to hope, and courage saves the day. This Christmas, the Traverse and Red Bridge join Scotland’s finest artists making work for young people, to bring life and invention to one of the best-selling books of all time. Performed by Andy Manley and Andy Cannon, this re-telling of Black Beauty makes an ideal theatre trip for the whole family. Traverse Theatre www.traverse.co.uk Fri 2 December - Sat 24 December Age: 6+

A (sort of) Christmas Carol Magic Show The world’s most distinguished duo of Time Travelling Magicians Morgan & West present Charles Dickens’ timeless classic A Christmas Carol. There is only one problem - Mr Morgan hasn’t read it. Well not just one problem, there are also only two of them to play all the parts. Oh, and Mr West is rather insistent on doing a magic show at the same time. How hard can it be? Fun for all the family in this utterly splendid (and totally silly) Christmas magic show! FESTIVAL SQUARE THEATRE www.edinburghschristmas.com Thurs 1 December - Sat 7 January

FUNBOX presents

Christmas Wonderland

Anya, Kevin and Gary are on top of the world – literally, as their latest seasonal spectacular takes them to the North Pole. They’re wrapped up cosy and warm for an Arctic adventure packed with songs, silliness and snow. The Funbox is locked though and the keys are missing. Can you help them find them? Fluffy and Flossie the Funsters are on hand to help and of course everyone’s favourite cheeky dog; Bonzo is along for the sleigh ride and up to his usual mischief too. You may even get to help on stage! BRUNTON THEATRE www.thebrunton.co.uk Thurs 22 December - Sat 24 December

Owen and Olly’s Christmas Swingalong

Red Riding Hood and the Wolves of Winter

Owen & Olly’s festive family concert is crammed with Christmas cool! Parents and kids alike will thrill to the sensational saxophones, brilliant brass and rocking rhythm section of the RSNO Big Band. Featuring high-energy versions of festive and movie swing classics that will pay a visit to the Pink Panther, educate about the Bare Necessities and make your Winter Wonderland. Sing and dance along with cool cat presenters, joined by the Manor School of Ballet dancers. Suitable for children aged 4 to 12 and their families, CCC’s concerts are a fun and accessible way to discover the thrill of live classical music – complete with crazy costumes, audience sing-a-longs and plenty of onstage antics from our dynamic duo. Christmas starts here!

A new family pantomime full of songs, jokes and frosty winter fun! We all know the story of Red Riding Hood don’t we? Or do we? How did our young heroine Rosie get such a strange nick-name? Why does she head off into the frozen forest in the depths of winter carrying only a basket of cakes? Come and hear the whole true story as we share Rosie’s journey with her best friend Peter and his clever dog Patch. Sing along with Grandmother Babushka Blossom. Boo at the wicked Ice Queen as she sends out the wolf pack from Snow Mountain. Wonder at the mysterious Prince Nikoli; should his eyebrows really join up like that? He seems very hairy for a prince. Might he be the Big Bad... surely not?

THE USHER HALL www.usherhall.co.uk Box Office: 0131 228 1155 Sun 11 December, 3pm

HOWDEN PARK CENTRE www.howdenparkcentre.co.uk Mon 12 December - Wed 28 December

www.mademagazine.co.uk

C C C CC C hildren's

on erts c

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with

Usher Hall, Edinburgh 3pm Sunday 11th December 2016 Join Owen and Olly and the RSNO Big Band, for a children’s concert that’s crammed with Christmas cool! childrensclassicconcerts.co.uk Children’s Music Foundation in Scotland. Registered Scottish Charity SC022841

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AGONY AUNT

Jojo! Trust

Got a child related problem and need some advice? Look no further! Comedian, JoJo Sutherland, is on hand to help. Send your problems to info@mademagazine.co.uk @jojosutherland www.jojosutherland.co.uk

London, Paris, New York… it’s all go in the life of a stand-up comic! If truth be told, it’s more like London, Perth, Manchester, Liverpool, South Queensferry, but that doesn’t sound nearly glamorous enough. What I’m trying to say is I’ve been away a LOT. And my house is a tip! To be fair, my family do try their best when I’m away, but it turns out their best is a bit, well, rubbish. But their excuses are amazing. My eldest defended the state of her room with the explanation that “homes are for free expression not good impressions” and part of me wanted to agree, whilst simultaneously reporting myself to social services! Seriously,

how many bowls can you hide under a bed? Seven it turns out. Plus cutlery. Although how you eat cereal with a fork is still a mystery to me. There is a school of thought that says you should just leave kids to wallow in their own pigsty and eventually they will get sick of it and tidy it themselves, but I’m worried that hell will freeze over before then. So me and my friend “Marigold” have been quite the busy bees, and I’m happy to report that visitors no longer need protective clothing. But ear muffs are probably still required as I have not stopped complaining loudly to anyone that will listen!

Dear Jojo My son wants to walk to school on his own but I think he is too young. He is 7 – am I being overprotective?

Louise, Fairmilehead

Dear Louise It is a tricky one and only you really know how sensible your child is with traffic etc. But a couple of ideas could be if there is a “walking bus” where a group all go together? Or what I used to do was say “yeah, sure, off you pop” and then secretly follow them for a good two years. It’s great training for if you ever want to become a spy, and let’s face it, that’s what parenting is most of the time.

Jojo x

made NOV / DEC 2016

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22 23 made NOV / DEC 2016

Dates for your diary Monday Tuesday

Wednesday Thursday

1 Diwali Festival @ The Raj, Blackhall, with henna, live music and delicious food. A chance for children to learn about Diwali and make colourful Diwali sweets. Until 5 Nov.

7 BLUE SKY PHOTOGRAPHY

Book your Christmas Gingerbread Shoot with Blue Sky Photography. Sessions available until Nov 20.

6pm - 8pm Christmas Shopping Preview Evening @ Cloudberry, Barnton. Traditional and contemporary decorations and beautiful gifts, exclusive discounts and a glass of fizz!

10 6pm - 8pm Christmas Shopping Preview Evening @ Cloudberry, Blackhall. Traditional and contemporary decorations and beautiful gifts, exclusive discounts and a glass of fizz!

BUILD IT! A museum made from LEGO® @ The National Museum of Scotland. A beautiful three-metre LEGO® model of the Museum is now on display.

BOOK WEEK SCOTLAND 21 - 27 NOVEMBER

Book Week Scotland. Hundreds of free events and book related activities across the country. www.scottishbooktrust.com/ book-week-scotland

CLOUDBERRY CHRISTMAS SHOPPING 3 & 10 NOV

22 Aladdin starts @ The Brunton, Musselburgh

28 29 30 Take kids to try Turtle Dove! (Previously Jenn’s Den)

Keep up to date with all the latest events by logging onto 34

www.mademagazine.co.uk

November 2016 Friday Saturday Sunday 4 5

SLA Fireworks Extravaganza @ George Heriot’s Playing Fields.

SLA Fireworks Extravaganza @ George Watson’s College Rugby Ground.

Dads Rock LEGO Workshops @ Whale Arts, Wester Hailes. For kids 4-12 and their dads. Book via barry@dadsrock.org.uk. FREE

11 12 10am - 11am Dad & Child Christmas Hair Workshops @ Prentice Centre, 1 Granton Mains Avenue. Run by Dads Rock and Paterson SA Hairdressing. Also on 22 Nov @ Whale Arts. Contact David@dadsrock.org.uk

18 19 Dads Rock LEGO Workshops @ Whale Arts, Wester Hailes. For kids 4-12 and their dads. Book via barry@dadsrock.org.uk. FREE

25 26

Foodies Festival Christmas @ Edinburgh International Conference Centre from 25 - 27 Nov.

Alices Adventures in Wonderland starts @ The Royal Lyceum Theatre Edinburgh. See Spotlight for more info…

13 Turtle Tots Christmas underwater photoshoot. For info on their new term email karina@turtletots. com

20 Elf Adoption Day @ It’s a Wonderful World of Parties, Causewayside. Running every weekend from 19 Nov - 17 Dec.

12pm - 5pm Christmas Fair @ Jupiter Artland. A wide range of unique stalls, seasonal refreshments and home bakes. Santa Claus will be visiting the Tin Roof Gallery. Book Grotto in advance.

JUPITER ARTLAND 27 NOVEMBER

Spotlight on...

Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland Royal Lyceum Theatre Edinburgh www.lyceum.org.uk Sat 26 November - Sat 31 December Age: 5+ Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland has been the best loved of all children’s stories for over 150 years. This Christmas The Lyceum will bring Lewis Carroll’s classic to life with a magical new production in a magnificent Victorian setting.

“Why, sometimes I’ve believed as many as six impossible things before breakfast.”

www.mademagazine.co.uk/whats-on.html made NOV MARCH / DEC / APRIL 2016 2016

Dates for your diary Monday Tuesday

Wednesday Thursday

1 Barnton Christmas Shopping Evening. Christmas lights switch-on, school choirs and festive fun.

MEMBERS’ SHOPPING WEEK THE SCOTTISH SEABIRD CENTRE 5-11 DEC

A (SORT OF) CHRISTMAS CAROL MAGIC SHOW 1 DEC - 7 JAN

A (sort of) Christmas Carol Magic Show is on at Festival Square Theatre until January 7th.

10:30–10:55, 11:30–11:55am Magic Carpet @ The National Museum of Scotland. Events to introduce little ones to objects in the Museum. FREE, limited places, on a first come, first served basis.

10am - 4pm Members’ Shopping Week @ the Scottish Seabird Centre. From Dec 5-11th, 15% OFF the gift shop, food & drink, gifts, soft toys, cards and books.

TOO MANY PENGUINS 14-24 DECEMBER (NOT 18)

Too Many Penguins starts @ The Studio at Festival Theatre

10am - 10.40am Recitals for Wrigglers @ The Great Gallery, Palace of Holyrood House. Book via www.royal collection.org.uk

Meet Santa at the Botanics! He will meet and greet children, and pose for photos daily from 17-24 December.

Boxing Day

1pm Relaxed Hansel & Gretel @ Festival Theatre. For people with additional needs aged 4+

Santa’s Farmyard Cottage @ Almond Valley. Santa visits Almond Valley, settling into his farmyard cottage in a chilly midwinter forest. He’ll be welcoming young visitors, and handing out Christmas presents.

Aladdin starts @ The Brunton Theatre.

SANTA’S FARMYARD COTTAGE ALMOND VALLEY

Keep up to date with all the latest events by logging onto 36

www.mademagazine.co.uk

December 2016 Spotlight on...

Friday Saturday Sunday 2 3 Black Beauty starts @ The Traverse Theatre. For ages 6+

10am - 12.30pm. Festive Fair @ Dalmeny Primary School. Santa’s Grotto, Christmas Market, Christmas trees, tasty treats, unique gifts and lots of family fun!

Christmas All Wrapped Up @ EICA, Ratho. A festive party for babies, children and their grown-ups. 10am - 12pm Baby’s First Christmas. 1.30pm - 3.30pm A Christmas Cracker for under 10s.

9 10 11 Scottish Ballet: Hansel & Gretel starts @ Festival Theatre. For ages 6+.

3pm Owen & Olly’s Christmas Singalong @ Usher Hall

Sunday 4th December EICA, Ratho 10am – 12pm: Baby’s 1st Christmas 1.30pm – 3.30pm: A Christmas Cracker

SCOTTISH BALLET: HANSEL & GRETEL

16 17

3pm Wee Hansel & Gretel @ Festival Theatre. An adapted version of a big ballet for ages 3+

Step It Up Dance Christmas Camp @ Broughton High School

11am - 4pm The Magic of Christmas Past (Family Event Day) @ Palace of Holyroodhouse. A magical event with storytelling, dressing up, family ceilidh, festive trail and Christmas presents.

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9am - 1pm A-Star Sports Christmas Party @ Dreghorn Loan. Disco, games, crafts, drink & snacks and Santa gift! Email brian.droudge @a-starsports.co.uk

Christmas All Wrapped Up

Christmas Eve

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3pm The RSNO Christmas Concert @ Usher Hall.

Merrays Christm

Family Hogmanay @ The Brunton, Musselburgh. Ceilidhs, lantern making, drumming workshops, storytelling from It’s In The Bag and lots more. www.thebrunton.co.uk

Highlights include: • Magical Messy Play • Christmas Crafts • Beat the Snowman Goalie • Yuletide Yoga • Inflatable Ice palace featuring Elsa and Olaf • Festive Photo Sessions • Christmas Market • Santa’s Meet and Greet • Grateful grownups beauty bar • Very Merry Musical Sessions • Snowy Sensory Sessions

Tickets: £10 (children) £6 (adults) All children’s tickets include a gift from Santa and can be booked online at buytickets.at/ popupparentsevents

www.mademagazine.co.uk/whats-on.html made NOV / DEC 2016

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Leith & Portobello

Come and join us to sing, dance and play! Moo Music is a great fun and interactive regular music session for 0-5 year old children and their parents, grandparents and carers too, where the children sing, dance, play, learn and moooove!!

Carmen Chalmers

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Mum’s New World WRITTEN BY Kirsty

Nicholls

EDITOR OF EDINBURGH FOR UNDER FIVES

ast week a lady stopped me to look at baby Tom. “He’s gorgeous,” she said. I thanked her with a big smile, feeling stupendously smug with the tiny bundle in the pram, only to look down to find milk cascading from his nostrils. It reminded me of the day that I made it to toddler group with a couple of minutes to spare, beaming with self-congratulation, little Jack peeking forward out of his baby sling. With a spring in my step, I bid “good morning” to everyone in the room before settling down in the baby corner and removing Jack from the sling. It was only then that I realised that he’d vomited down both his front and mine. You’ll have gathered by now that I’m not always on the ball. Let’s be fair: I’m rarely even in the right playing field. But I’m talking about a very specific form of naivety. It’s thinking you know it all, before being violently jolted into the realisation that you’re clueless. Basically, it’s missing the obvious and then feeling like a right div. When you have a tiny tot, this happens more often. Not only are you exhausted, but your brain is adjusting to a new reality. It’s consumed with wonder at the tiny bundle you’ve produced. It’s teasing you with thoughts of one day coughing with confidence. This all starts from the word “go”. I recently had a caesarean and I asked for a high screen to hide the gore. But my husband – who’s nearly as squeamish as me – peered around it too early and accidentally caught the whole episode on camera. The footage will be a wonderful memento. But as somebody who can’t even watch Holby City without face planting into their TV dinner, I’d rather believe my boys were dropped off by a stork. Now I – and any unwitting house guest – can experience the gruesome

“

It’s so natural to cheer after a smooth bath time, only to find teddy in the toilet

made NOV / DEC 2016

reality in ultra high definition. During my last night in hospital, another new mum on the ward snored like a steam train. I felt cross with her. But then morning came and I heard her crying. I saw her husband bearing her entire weight as she moved at a snail’s pace to the bathroom. I was in her shoes after my first son’s birth, in agony and terrified that I would never feel well again. Then I thanked the angels that she got those hours of respite, however thunderous. It’s so easy to moan about that friend who cancels get togethers, before discovering the reason why. It’s so natural to cheer after a smooth bath time, only to find teddy in the toilet. It’s so normal to fill the nappy bag with wipes, snacks, spare clothes and self-satisfaction, only to realise with that first threatening burp that the muslins are back home on the airer. I reckon all we can do is enjoy our successes with blissful ignorance, be kind to each other and laugh. Lots. n

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LEGISLATION

Healthier Scotland

rom 5th December 2016, it will be illegal for anyone to smoke in a car if you have passengers aged 18 or under. The new legislation is being introduced to protect children and young people in Scotland from the harm caused by second hand smoke during car journeys. If caught, the driver of the vehicle could face a ÂŁ100 fixed penalty fine. Around a fifth of 13 to 15 year olds are exposed to tobacco smoke in the car. If you smoke whilst children and young people are in a car, even with the window open, the level of harmful chemicals reach very high levels in only 60 seconds. Reducing exposure to second hand smoke protects children and young people from conditions such as bronchiolitis, pneumonia and asthma.

www.mademagazine.co.uk

From 5 Dec 2016, smoking in a vehicle with anyone under 18 is illegal. We all want to protect our kids in the car. So for their sake, please donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t smoke. Or you could face a ÂŁ100 FIXED PENALTY protectyourkids.scot

DIGITAL

The Three Rs and ICT WRITTEN BY Caroline

Phipps-Urch

Entertainment Festival. Mark John from the Big Learning Company told me, ‘Learning through play is just as important as it ever was, if not more so. However children are naturally tech savvy and what we do is present them with a series of opportunities to learn. All the digital devices we use today will be with us in the future, they are not going anywhere, so it’s our duty to teach them the skills to help maximise their potential. Through the work we do we are seeing children shift from digital consumers to digital creators. We owe it to our children to give them enough skills to navigate the devices they will be using in the future. Digital literacy is not something separate to the curriculum. We need a strategic approach

www.mademagazine.co.uk

clearly remember being shown round our local school in 2013, a year before our oldest was due to start. The familiar smell of school dinners and what felt like a vast Victorian building, was a little overwhelming, as I tried to imagine my nearly five year old in school uniform. When visiting one of the P1 classrooms I was surprised to find twenty-five children, each with an iPad working on a handwriting exercise. Alarm bells rang, all the ‘screen time’ articles I had read were coming flashing back. Surely they shouldn’t be using iPads at school? Fast forward to the August 2016 and I was happily booking my six and seven year olds into Lego coding workshops run by the Big Learning Company at the Edinburgh Digital

DIGITAL

across all subjects in education.’ Lynne Kerr of ComputerXplorers agrees, ‘In an increasingly digital world, digital literacy is now seen as an important life skill. Our courses emphasis is on children as creators of technology rather than just consumers, and on combining serious learning with fun. From 3D animation and modelling to Minecraft and web design – all with computational thinking, creativity and critical thinking at their core.’ Peter Ferry runs Microsoft in Scotland and set up a software company called Wallet.services; based in CodeBase Edinburgh it is building a platform for BlockChain. ‘Coding is the art of telling computers how to perform complex tasks. By writing code, and building software, we understand the language of computers. That lets us understand the technology, which powers games, gadgets, the internet and controls every aspect of modern life. ‘In early primary school digital literacy is about becoming familiar with computers, for made NOV / DEC 2016

example logging on or using a mouse. Then it becomes about using applications like Word, Excel and PowerPoint. However at this stage the children are using computers as consumers and don’t really understand how computers work so how the data they input is being used or how to protect themselves. If they have learnt how to code, as they move through high school and into the work place, they will have a better understanding of how to get the most out of these packages.’ Peter is currently the tutor for the Computing Club at Bruntsfield Primary School, ‘We’ve just acquired BBC Micro:bits. The children are using the basic concepts of Scratch, which is an application that enables them to programme their own interactive stories, and then build on that by linking into the physical world. This is as important as teaching English and Maths in primary schools; it is fundamental. It needs to be part of the curriculum.’ Victoria Primary School in Leith is currently

DIGITAL

working with Helena Barrett, Learning and Engagement Coordinator of the Edinburgh Arts Festival. Helena told me, ‘We are working with pupils to create their own film in 360 camera technology to be viewed in virtual reality headsets. The children are learning how to use this new technology, develop a creative response to an artwork and in the process this provides the university with an excellent case study of research of how young people interact with digital technology. The success of the project demonstrates the importance of continuing to ensure dedicated places for creativity in our children’s education.’ According to Improving Scottish Education: ICT in Learning and Teaching (2007) ‘… staff in pre-school centres and in primary schools recognised that learners developed awareness of the world in which they live more effectively when this included engagement with the world through ICT.

Several curriculum areas including the technologies provide opportunities for children and young people to consider security aspects associated with ICT, for example keeping personal data secure, and the important consequences of these for individuals. It is important for children and young people to recognise security risks when handling information across the curriculum, and act accordingly.’ Kirsty McFaul, Senior Education Officer for Technologies at Education Scotland echoes this, “Technology has progressed so rapidly over recent years that it is no longer a case of teaching ‘ICT’ as a standalone lesson. The development of digital skills can and should be a focus across the curriculum at an early stage in learning to ensure children develop the skills needed for today’s digital world. Evidence also tells us that technology can enhance learning and teaching, leading to improved educational outcomes.

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DIGITAL

The Scottish Government is also clear on the importance of digital learning and recently launched the strategy, ‘Enhancing Learning and Teaching through the use of Digital Technology’, which aims to increase the use of digital technology to support learning and teaching in schools.’ In line with this strategy, Education Scotland has been involved in a range of initiatives that have been recently implemented and support digital learning specifically at primary level. This includes the launch of the Barefoot Computing Programme, which seeks to help primary teachers deliver Computing Science in more engaging and practical ways. In addition, a Digital Schools Award has recently opened to encourage a whole school approach to the use of digital technology in primary schools.’ Sue Palmer author of Toxic Childhood and the recently published Upstart gave me her thoughts. ‘For 21st century children, computer literacy is just as important as ‘old-fashioned quarter_page_editable_ad

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literacy’. But success in both depends on healthy all-round development in the early years. This is rooted in two things: close relationships with the adults who care for them and plenty of play with other children, particularly outdoors and in natural surroundings. So don’t confuse computer literacy with screen-based entertainment and play. It’s very easy for children to get hooked on this and miss out on essential aspects of physical, emotional, social and cognitive development so the medical advice on recreational screen-time is none at all in the first two years, and no more than an hour or two a day thereafter. ‘ We need our children to be smart and safe in this digital world. They need the skills and understanding that digital literacy offers as this is now the world we live in. It’s been a very long time since a BBC Micro Computer got wheeled into my classroom once a week, times have changed and it’s going to be tough to keep up with our children! n

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Technology Classes for Kids New Saturday morning classes at North Merchiston Club, Edinburgh Design Your Own Video Game • Inspirational 3D Animation • Create your own app • Web Design • Create Your Own Comic Book • Programme Robots • Clay Animation • Movie-making • And so much more! We also offer birthday parties in everything from Minecraft & CSI to stop motion animation

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For further information contact 0131 6530580 or lynnek@computerxplorers.co.uk www.sescotland.computerxplorers.co.uk

made NOV / DEC 2016

BELIEFS

...ACCORDING TO KIDS Easter is when your parents lay eggs in the garden. Gabrielle (8)

Thank-you to the tooth fairy for giving me lots of lovely, kind pounds when my teeth fall out. I was very lucky and very grateful. She was so kind and never ever didn’t come. Anna (5)

Fairies can fly and have pixie dust. They stay in heaven. Donato (5)

Fairies live in tree hollows, they’re hard to catch and they have wee yellow bits and pixie dust around them. Benjamin (7)

The Easter Bunny is not real, it’s actually Santa who does the work. Donato (5)

Fairies are a fairy tale and if there are fairies there are trolls. Jude (6)

Fairies can’t sleep because their wings never stop flying. Emily (4)

Santa’s reindeers don’t always fly. Sometimes they walk or catch the bus. Tatum (4)

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Make your own B

ack in the early 2000s, we all laughed as Bridget Jones turned her nose up at Mark Darcy’s tasteless reindeer jumper that his mother forced him to wear. We have come a long way since then, and these days he probably wouldn’t be the only guest turning up to the party in a novelty knit. In fact, today Bridget would likely be asking why his reindeer jumper did not have any LED lights or sequins on it! No longer is the Christmas jumper

an embarrassing gift from your granny, the trend has quickly gone mainstream. But these days, the only route to a truly unique creation is to avoid buying off the peg like everybody else and instead to create your own. But what if you cannot knit? What if your kids announce at the very last minute that they all need Christmas jumpers for a school event? What about the competitive office Christmas jumper party? If that is the case, then this is just for you…

made NOV / DEC 2016

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CHRISTMAS JUMPERS

Gift of the Magi What better present to give a loved one than your undivided attention? With its cheery festive boy, this jumper turns you into the gift.

Materials l 3 generous lengths of wide satin ribbon l Dress pins l Needle or sewing machine l Thread (in a coordinating colour to ribbon) l Scissors

Method 1. Lay your jumper flat on a surface you can work on comfortably.

ÂŠ DESIGNED BY PRESSFOTO - FREEPIK.COM

2. Place your first length of ribbon vertically down the front of the jumper, so that it runs down the centre from neck to hem. Pin in place, allowing about 5mm of extra ribbon at top and bottom (this will later get turned under for a neat edge). Cut off any excess neatly. 3. Using a needle and coordinating thread, attach the ribbon to the jumper using a straight running stitch. Alternatively, you can pin the ribbon in position and then stitch it down with a sewing machine if you prefer. Turn both ends of the ribbon under before sewing them down, folding back the excess 5mm that you kept for this purpose, so that the raw edges are hidden underneath. 4. Lay a second length of ribbon horizontally across the front of the jumper, through the middle from left to right, and overlapping the first ribbon to form a cross. Pin in place, cut off any excess neatly (again leaving 5mm made NOV / DEC 2016

extra at both ends) and stitch down by hand or by machine, folding the raw ends under as before. 5. Tie the final length of ribbon into a lavish bow. Place this in the centre of the jumper at the point where the two other ribbons cross. 6. Attach the bow to the jumper by stitching into the central â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;knotâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;, starting from the inside of the jumper and bringing the needle out through the fabric and up through all the layers of ribbon, apart from the very top layer of the knot so that the stitch remains invisible. Then push it back down again through all the layers. Repeat the same stitch several times to ensure the bow is well secured. Knot and trim the thread on the inside of the jumper. 7. Make sure the two loose ends of the bow are cut sharply and neatly with fabric scissors. Add a few tiny individual stitches to hold the loops and tails of the bow in position and prevent them drooping or flapping around. Remove all pins from the jumper before wear.

CHRISTMAS JUMPERS

Fill Your Stocking

Have your Christmas stocking and wear it too! A perfect way to recycle kid’s socks, which can be stuffed with sweets, toys or gifts to make friends smile.

Materials l Ribbon, embroidery floss or decorative cord l Needle and coordinating thread l Baby socks (raid the pound shop!) l Decorative mini pegs and bows l Selection of sweets, candy canes and/or small toys

Method 1. Lay your jumper flat on a work surface and determine the placement of your ribbon or embroidery floss so that it looks like it is ‘strung’ from one side of the jumper to the other, as if festooned across the front of an invisible mantelpiece. 2. Stitch down your ribbon or floss at both ends, leaving it to hang loose in between, or if you refer things fixed in a specific position you can stitch it down along the length using a straight running stitch or with small individual stitches at intervals. 3. Space your mini socks equally across the front of the jumper, positioning them at an angle with one top ‘corner’ of each sock touching the ribbon garland, as shown, so that they appear to be hanging from a mantelpiece. 4. Attach the socks to the jumper using a needle and coordinating thread, sewing around the outer edge of each one with a straight running,

starting at the top corner and catching the ribbon in the first stitch. Remember to leave all the socks open at the top so that they can be filled. Alternatively, if you’re in a hurry, you can attach each sock just by its top two corners, securing with individual stitches and leaving the heel and toe hanging loose. 5. Decorate the stockings and ribbon garland as you wish. The jumper in the main photograph is embellished with mini metallic pegs at the top of each stocking and decorative bows stitched onto either end of the garland. 6. For a fun finishing touch, stuff the socks with sweets, candy canes, small toys or other festive goodies. You’re bound to be the most popular guest at the Christmas party when you start doling out the treats!

Need more ideas… These jumpers were taken from Make Your Own Christmas Jumper: 20 Fun & Easy Projects to make in a Day by Nicolette Lanfonesca, published on 20th October by Quercus Books, £14.99. Nicolette is also a craft blogger, find her online at www.archieandtherug.com

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Mulled Wine & Craft Evening Get an early start to the Festive period by enjoying mulled wine, mince pies, craft demonstration and some unique stalls to help you get your shopping under way!

Friday 18th November 2016 7.30pm Dell Room, Colinton Parish Church Tickets: £10 includes refreshments Tickets from stableroom@hotmail.co.uk also available on Eventbrite

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g n i h s i Fin es Touch

You might have bought the presents but don’t forget your luxury cards, baubles for the tree, ornaments for the home and mistletoe for the door!

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CROCHET BAUBLE £14.95 FELT CHRISTMAS WREATH (30CM) £44.95 FELT MISTLETOE £12.95 ALL FROM Pippin, Haymarket www.pippingifts.com CHRISTMAS CARDS SELECTION Various prices, Pippin and Cloudberry

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Original gifts

GISELA GRAHAM WOODLAND GLITTER ANIMALS £7.95 Cloudberry, Barnton & Blackhall www.cloudberrygifts.co.uk HOUSEOLOGY COLLECTION LACE BAUBLE GOLD £4

10. HOUSEOLOGY COLLECTION Joy Free Standing Christmas Ornament On Stand £24

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Cards, jewellery, home accessories, toys, babywear and much more!

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made NOV / DEC 2016

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lifestyle

Hostess with the Mostess WRITTEN BY Fiona

Hourston

The festive season is a barrage of celebrations and fun. However, when planning and executing a Christmas event, life can become extremely stressful! So, how do you become the Hostess with the Mostess?

eticulous planning is paramount. Write a to-do list, guest list, shopping list, music list and plan when to clean your house. Involve members of your family to help, send out detailed invitations 3-4 weeks before and state an RSVP. Numbers are essential when planning! Creating the right ambiance with gentle lighting and candles creates a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Place unscented candles in main areas as the smell of festive food and mulled wine will provide its own wonderful scent. Seasonal scented candles should be placed in the bathroom and entrance. If

young children are attending, candles can be substituted with room spray or a diffuser. If your bathroom is small then gentle scents might be less overwhelming than traditional Christmas fragrances. Fresh towels, soap and hand lotion are all luxuries that will impress and be noted. Create a playlist of your best loved tunes and seasonal favourites and have them playing on arrival. Resist putting the heating on before guests arrive - a large crowd and festive fizz will soon generate heat. Greet your guests relaxed. Make sure you have cleared your coat stand or have an area for coats and bags, a spare bed is great for large numbers. Place a plastic box subtly to the side of the front door for umbrellas. Don’t expect guests to remove footwear, if you have a precious cream rug, now is the time to lift it. On arrival make sure guests disperse into the main areas in the house so the entrance does not

PRODUCTS BY TEMPLE SPA

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www.leafandbean edinburgh.co.uk become gridlocked. Within the first few minutes of entering guests will make a bee-line for the bar. Streamline the bar and try not to offer too much choice. It is crucial to have plenty of drinks. A rough guide is that each guest will consume four glasses. A bottle of wine contains six small glasses so make sure you get the maths correct. Calculate, then add a few! Have enough of the same brand of Prosecco or Champagne – mixing brands when topping up can leave a bad taste in your guests mouths – literally! Variety is the spice of life when it comes to glassware – don’t worry about matching glasses, a mixture of vintage and new makes your house feel warm, cosy and less formal. Pre-pour fizz just before arrival. Provide exciting and special non-alcoholic drinks. Sparkling water can be jazzed up with elderflower or pomegranate pressé. Prepare in advance in tall jugs and keep chilled. A plastic box filled with ice outside will keep drinks chilled for hours. Delegate close friends to top up drinks, it takes pressure from you but also facilitates introductions and chat. Nibbles! It is absolutely essential to serve enough food to mop up the alcohol. Make them simple but stunning! Canapés should be no more than an inch by an inch. Preparation is key – no one wants to see the host in a kitchen frenzy with an apron on! Cold canapés such as a smoked salmon blini topped with dill, or crostini topped with goats cheese and caramelised onions can be prepared in advance and kept chilled. No need to serve more than 3-4 different canapés at a party. Aim for 6-8 per person. If you are serving a warm canapé keep it simple and hassle free – honey and wholegrain mustard sausages are always a winner. Accidents happen, so be prepared with kitchen roll, dust pan and brush and the holy grail of hosting, Wine Away. Deal with spills or breakages fast and effectively – you never want your guests to feel uncomfortable. Finally – host! This is your party, your time to shine. Don’t be tied to topping up glasses or serving canapés – enjoy your evening. Mingle, introduce, laugh and relax – you have done it! Now wait for the phrase – you are the hostess with the mostess! n

Find out more... Fiona Hourston is a Temple Spa Lifestyle Consultant and hosts Temple Spa parties. For more info on Temple Spa and to arrange a party with Fiona go to www.templespa.com/ fionahourston made NOV / DEC 2016

Family run, independent café, boutique and activity centre Very spacious, buggy friendly, warm and cosy with a selection of delicious food for breakfast, lunch and amazing afternoon teas; great own blend coffee, loose leaf teas and hot chocolates and a baby & toddler menu.

The Stable

Where babies & toddlers can play and enjoy activities & classes. See Facebook & website for updates. Available for hire.

www.boutiquee boo.co.uk

Stunning gifts for Christmas, birthdays, new home or just for you! Baby & toddler clothing, luxury scented soy candles & diffusers, artisan chocolates & marshmallows, papercuts, children’s books, jams, oils and much much more.

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It’s time to

NERF!

oam Dart Thunder is the incredibly fun, fastpaced, NERF tournament, with sessions giving children a twohour workout without them even realising! The brain-child of local dad, Neil McClory, Foam Dart Thunder could be one answer to the obesity crisis occurring throughout Scotland. Over three years ago Neil started Foam Dart Thunder as he realised his kids needed a bigger venue to NERF in than just their house. He was convinced that others would feel the same way and so hired a local soft play centre for evening sessions in Edinburgh and immediately knew it was a hit with both kids and their parents. Children, young people and adults couldn’t get enough of the thrilling tournaments and are

now attending on a monthly basis, enjoying the dynamic gettogether and meeting new friends. Neil was thrilled at the results of the fun events - not only were his children spending less time on computers and gadgets - they were exercising and having fun at the same time. Neil said: “Parents’ feedback was that I should be doing it more often and in more venues so we’ve expanded to using skate parks, both in Edinburgh and East Kilbride. And we run private birthday parties most weekends as well. And we’re still expanding - I actually need more staff! The great thing about the NERF sessions is that kids get a workout and they don’t even realise it.” The skate park sessions can accommodate up to 60 players, anyone from age 8 and up, to take

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part in individual and team events under the watchful gaze of their parents and four referees. Each child brings their own NERF blaster, with the small, brightly-coloured foam darts provided by Foam Dart Thunder. Neil wanted more children to experience the benefits of Foam Dart Thunder and approached Active Schools Scotland to talk about how they could work together in order to bring the lively sessions to schools, to compliment the existing Active Schools programme. Active Schools agreed the activity was in the children’s best interest and have rolled out taster sessions in the Liberton cluster, for Liberton, Gilmerton, Craigour and Prestonfield Primary Schools. They will then be running five-week blocks, hosting two one-hour slots back-to-back every week throughout November and into early December to trial the activity. The plan is to roll out the sessions to more and more Primary Schools throughout Edinburgh and the Lothians, so more children can have fun and stay active. n

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Foam Dart Thunder Safe, fun events and parties

www.foamdartthunder.com

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Find out more…

ot It’s n or just f ! kids

If you want to bring Foam Dart Thunder to your child’s school, or enquire about parties or corporate events, or would like to work as an event organiser with this dynamic local business call Neil on 07590 542 811 or email foamdartthunder@hotmail.com

foamdartthunder @hotmail.com

made NOV / DEC 2016

out & about

Photocall

out & about

•

Have you got great photos from an event you’d like to share with MADE readers? If so, email them to us at info@mademagazine.co.uk

out & about

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1. Atahan Sezgin (7) runner up in Edinburgh Leisure’s ActiveArt Competition with Olympian Robbie Renwick.

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2. Local baby-sling suppliers, Oscha Slings, demonstrating the benefits of babywearing at the inaugural Sling Show Scotland in September. Sem

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3 3. Ewen Cameron (Forth 1) and Juliet Russell (owner of Honey Pot Arts & Crafts Studio) with daughter, Emily, at Dobbies Charity Event, helping raise money for Teenage Cancer Trust.

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out & about

4. Edinburgh Airport Plaza was given a Spotacular makeover by pupils from Strawberry Hill Nursery to mark Bank of Scotland and BBC Children in Need’s new schools fundraising campaign.

6. Scotmid teamed up with St Catherine’s Primary School, Gracemount, to serve up healthy breakfasts for up to 80 pupils every morning, with a donation of £1,290 to sponsor the Breakfast Club.

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5. Over 2000 fishkeepers and hobbyists attended the launch of Fishkeeper Scotland’s second store in Edinburgh, in Dobbies Melville on 3rd and 4th September, and raised funds for the Sick Kids Hospital and the SSPCA.

out & about

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TRIED

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ON TRIAL... Michelle Brown PR Workshops In this edition we spoke with Claire Doyle, an awardwinning theatre professional about her experience with Michelle Brown’s PR Workshops to help launch her own performing arts company, 3Theatre. Michelle Brown PR Workshops claim: They’ll help you learn everything you need to know about the world of PR to create awareness, build your brand, enhance your reputation and form stronger relationships at their Introduction to PR Workshop, Masterclasses and Personalised PR One-to-One Sessions.

Claire says: With over 20 years’ performance and teaching experience around the world, after training at the Royal Academy of Music in London and the Theatre School of Dance and Drama in Edinburgh, I decided this summer was the right time to establish my own theatre school, focussing on spreading the joy of creativity and imagination in children through performance. It was important to make sure I got it right in terms of promoting the uniqueness of my company. With my expertise being in the arts, I felt overwhelmed trying to keep on top of different ways to raise awareness, which is why I joined Michelle’s workshop. Her wealth of knowledge and contacts allowed me to choose what was right for my business in terms of traditional and online media, and helped me focus on the future and how to develop and broaden my reach to suitable groups, which was invaluable. Michelle gave me great ideas to help spread the word, especially around promoting my performing art workshops, entitled ‘Smile’ during the October break at Bruntsfield Primary School, which was a huge success and the start of many exciting dance, music and acting holiday workshops to come!

The verdict: For any business, small or large, I can’t recommend Michelle’s PR workshops enough. I gained a deeper insight into how PR works, how to maximise exposure and achieve results across various media platforms, and most importantly I gained the confidence to make decisions independently as I move forward. For more information on the PR workshops, check out www.michellebrownpr.com and www.3Theatre.com for details of forthcoming performing arts classes for children and adults.

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