MADE (Mums and Dads Edinburgh) - September/October 2017

made SEP/OCT 2017 FREE

mums and dads edinburgh

the rise of the

PARENT BLOGGER

TOP TECH FOR CHILDREN (you’ll approve of)

BON TOT KIDS...

FRESH, MODERN, SWEATSHOP FREE KIDSWEAR. 46 St Stephen Street, Edinburgh. www.bon-tot.com

With the promise that all your holiday plans are in the safest possible hands.

Remember how easy it used to be to go on holiday?

When someone else took care of everything? At Travel Counsellors we believe this is the only way to sell travel – it’s such a personal thing that everybody deserves their very own personal expert.

At Travel Counsellors we’re all about you. So if you’re looking for a holiday to remember, contact me today.

Travel, tailor-made for you, with care.

David Bishop Travel Counsellor

0131 516 3920 or 07896 496727 david.bishop@travelcounsellors.com www.travelcounsellors.co.uk/david.bishop

MY BUSINESS SUPPORTS

made

welcome

Contributors We asked this issue’s contributors about their plans for September/October…

Kirsty Nicholls I’m starting a training course with Digital Mums, so that I can learn social media wizardry and unleash my new networking super powers on Edinburgh.

Alison Yardley I’ve recently gotten into wild camping and am planning to do more over the next couple of months. It’ll be an even greater challenge as the temperatures drop, but I’ll have my wee dog as a hot water bottle. And red wine is warming.

Dawn Geddes I’m off to Haworth in Yorkshire for a little trip in September to see where the Bronte sisters lived!

I’ve been a huge fan of Wuthering Heights since I was a teenager so I can’t wait!

Despite being from a long line of greenfingered parents, grandparents and relatives I somehow manage to kill every plant that comes into our house.

Unintentionally of course! I love plants in my home, they bring the rooms to life, but I think I over-love them (over water perhaps?) and they just don’t last. So I’m chuffed to bits that this season’s big new trend brings greenery, plant prints and motifs into the home in all sorts of ways so I can enjoy the greenness without worrying! Although one of my favourite gift shops, Pippin in Haymarket, is now stocking books to help people just like me! See pages 44 and 45.

Maybe I’ll try one more time…

Louise x

contact

Editor & Publisher Louise Wilson Designer

MAMi Designs

MADE, PO BOX 28825, Edinburgh, EH14 9BA T: 07738 068022 E: mademag@live.co.uk www.mademagazine.co.uk

Sales Executive

Caroline McClean

Feature Writers

Kirsty Nicholls, Alison Yardley, Dawn Geddes

Columnists

Kirsty Nicholls, Edinburgh for Under Fives,

Agony Aunt

Jojo Sutherland

Cover

Bon Tot, Stockbridge (bon-tot.com) © Susie Lowe Photography

Printer

Stephens & George

facebook.com/MADEmag twitter.com/MADE_magazine

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.

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Swanston Disc Golf Fun for all the family!

Combining Frisbee & Golf

Edinburgh’s only Disc Golf course. Anyone who can throw a Frisbee can play!

Ideal for children & adults, birthdays, corporate groups.

Free parking, play-all-day, minutes from Edinburgh City Centre. shop@swanston.co.uk

Swanston Foot Golf

Perfect for footy parties!

Combining Football & Golf

Suitable for all ages & ideal for birthdays, corporate entertainment & sports groups. Equipment hire & free parking, all within easy reach of Swanston Brasserie & Edinburgh City Centre. shop@swanston.co.uk

Swanston Brasserie

With fantastic views of Edinburgh, the Pentland Hills, Firth of Forth & towards the East Lothian beaches.

Open 7 days a week, 9am until late, offering breakfast, lunch, coffee, cakes & dinner including kids menu, Gluten Free & Vegetarian options.

Family friendly, free parking, disabled access & parent & child changing facilities.

Venue hire also available.

brasserie@swanston.co.uk 111 Swanston Road, Edinburgh, EH10 7DS Tel: 0131 445 2239 |Web: www.swanston.co.uk Dine | Play | Ride | Work | Unwind | Stay

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Contents SEP / OCT 2017

38

20

© IAKOV FILIMONOV

24

44

6 News 13

Competition

Win Mackie’s ice cream and chocolate

15

The Rise of the Parent Bloggers

By Kirsty Nicholls

20

Travel with children

By David Bishop

23

Mum’s New World

Super Zen Mum

24

Relaxed Parenting

By Alison Yardley

35 Halloween Fun 38

Top Tech for Children

By Dawn Geddes

43

Trust Jojo

If you need advice…

44 Shopping

Plant Power sponsored by Pippin

46

Love and Marriage

According to Kids

28

The C Word

By Diana Baker

30

Sept & Oct calendars

50

Tried & Tested:

Dates for your diary

Tom Thumb Baby Equipment Hire

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news Awards for Pippin

Explorathon is back!

Pippin is an independent gift boutique in the Haymarket area of Edinburgh, selling cards and gifts for all occasions, including jewellery, baby clothes, toys, candles, scarves, home accessories and skincare.

Each product is hand-picked to create a unique collection of products not seen elsewhere in Edinburgh, all designed in the UK. Earlier this year, Pippin was named Bespoke Retailer of the Year for the South of Scotland in the Scottish Independent Retail Awards, and was also a finalist in the Retail Business of the Year category at the SME Business awards.

Despite the ongoing project on Haymarket Terrace by Scottish Water to reduce the risk of businesses flooding, Pippin is always open for business!

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Part of EU Researchers’ Night, the annual festival returns on Fri 29th and Sat 30th Sept, with interactive events for families taking place at venues across Edinburgh. Building on the success of previous years, Explorathon sees researchers from all disciplines coming into public spaces to share their work in creative ways - curious challenges, hands-on making activities, storytelling, crafting and fun experiments. All events are free so this is a chance to get an insight into what goes on behind the walls of Edinburgh’s world-class research institutions whilst having family fun. www.explorathon.co.uk/edinburgh

From A to Bee… After 13 years of coaching children in a variety of sports, Brian (aka Brian Bumblebee) has taken the plunge and launched his own business, Bumblebee Sports!

Bumblebee Sports is a multi-sports coaching programme for children aged 2-10. Children will learn 8 different sports as well as social skills and having great fun.

Brian is joined by the ever-popular Dale, who worked closely with Brian for many years at A-Star Sports, and the team will run Bumblebee Sports classes, birthday parties and holiday clubs all across Edinburgh.

The highly trained and enthusiastic coaches’ wealth of experience and popularity with the children means your child’s first sporting experience will be a great one! www.bumblebeesports.co.uk

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news French for minis:

beginners to bilingual

Now in its 6th year, Mini French is the creation of Felicity, mum to three bilingual children. She uses her own experience and draws on recent research into language acquisition to run French sessions for babies and young children.

Felicity says “Our unique and welcoming programmes aim to foster a curiosity in the French language and culture. I call it brain training for babies! Not only will they have fun in a nurturing environment, you are giving your child a fantastic head-start in languages.”

Mini French’s music class is suitable from birth to age 4, and the Academy from age 4 to P2. Classes restart in September.

To chat to Felicity or for more info go to minifrench.co.uk

Free Gift for MADE readers Step It Up Dance have expanded their range of classes and venues for the new academic year. Now offering classes in Breakdance, Hip Hop, Urban Dance and Acro Dance, you can find them in venues across the city from Musselburgh all the way to Murrayfield and many more places in between.

Trial their classes by booking online at www.stepitupdance. co.uk, send an email to hello@ stepitupdance.co.uk or call 07428 110 135 with any questions. Receive a free gift when you quote MADE at time of booking!

New Massage Classes

Pukka Herbs health-boosting tea

From Acorn to Oak is delighted to have launched International Association of Infant Massage (IAIM) classes in Stockbridge and South Queensferry.

Owner Lesley Gould trained to become a Certified Infant Massage Instructor (CIMI) after witnessing the benefits massage brought to her elder daughter who has additional needs. Lesley loved the training so much she started teaching it! Blocks of 90 minute classes are held over 5 weeks for all babies aged 6 weeks to 1 year and parents and children aged 1-7 years who have additional needs. These warm, welcoming sessions include tea, coffee and cake! Contact Lesley@fromacorntooak. uk / 07931 309866 or look up Facebook ‘From Acorn to Oak Infant Massage

Pukka Herbs has launched Motherkind Baby - a nourishing, caffeine-free blend of organic functional herbs that support mother and baby during breastfeeding.

It has been launched in conjunction with Motherkind Pregnancy, a nurturing blend to support a healthy pregnancy.

Both are available in independent health food stores and from www.pukkaherbs.com

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news NEW Gallery & Gift Shop

NEW! 3D wildlife film experience

© TONY MARSH

opens Southside

Art & Craft Collective, showcasing the work of 30 artists and craftspeople has opened at 93 Causewayide, EH9 1QG. Regular demonstrations and workshops by the Collective artists take place at weekends as well as themed exhibitions and promotional events. A range of original art, handmade jewellery, fashion, candles, soaps, homewares and gifts for adults, children (and dogs!) as well as cards are available; including illustrations and books for children by recent Edinburgh College of Art graduate Kirsty Oxley – the only retail outlet for her charming work.

Details and booking at www.artcraftcollective. co.uk

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Conservation and education charity, the Scottish Seabird Centre, North Berwick, has launched a new 3D film experience, which enables visitors to delve deeper into the marine world.

Hosted daily, the new 3D experience allows visitors to see a range of films which explore different marine environments and wildlife.

Alex Turnbull, Discovery Centre Manager, said: “As we move forward with our plans to create a national marine centre, we were keen to introduce some more marinerelated activities. We tested the new 3D film experience with the Seabird Holiday Club, and both the children and adults in this first showing absolutely loved it’’

Try Kumon’s two-week FREE TRIAL NOW

Local Kumon Edinburgh, Morningside Study Centre is offering a two-week free trial between 1 Oct and 20 Nov. Your child can experience how the Kumon Maths and English Programmes help children of any age and ability to become confident, independent learners with a positive attitude to study. Your child will be assessed so that the instructor can tailor the level of study precisely to their ability, creating a positive learning experience.

For more info and to enrol your child, contact Christine Johnston on 0131 466 9235 or email edinburghmorningside@kumoncentre.co.uk.

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news All on One Campus You’ll get a warm welcome at Watson’s, a large school with a close-knit community, where girls and boys from Nursery through to S6 share a caring, friendly and stimulating environment.

Watson’s provides an unrivalled choice of subjects and levels. S5 and S6 pupils are able to choose between SQA examinations and the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IB).

Pupils are encouraged to challenge themselves both academically and through the broad range of extra-curricular activities, which the school provides.

The state-of-the-art George Watson’s Centre for Sport, provides magnificent sporting facilities on campus.

Flexible wraparound and holiday care is

available for younger pupils to fit the needs of family life.

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

Open Morning, 7 October 2017, 9.30am – 12.30pm

9.30am–12.30pm

Principal’s Address 9.30am

Choice for S5 and S6 pupils of SQA Qualifications or International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme School buses run from East Lothian, Midlothian, West Lothian, Peebles and Haymarket Station Up to 100% financial support available for P7 and S1 entry George Watson’s College Colinton Road Edinburgh EH10 5EG 0131 446 6000 admissions@gwc.org.uk

www.gwc.org.uk

INSTILLING CONFIDENCE INSPIRING INDIVIDUALS

An Edinburgh Merchant Company School, Registered Charity SC009747

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news Castle Street

Treasure Trove For those with an eye for exclusive handmade gifts, The Treasure Trove on Castle Street is a real destination. It offers jewellery, woodwork, baking, greetings cards, wonderful soft toys, Fair Isle knits and the finest wool baby shawls. The shop encourages talented artisans to produce bespoke work and you can commission every craft skill.

The work of the Treasure Trove finds its way all over the globe, proving that traditional skills are still very much valued.

Elizabeth East, Society Chairperson said “We are unique. Our shop is run by a professional staff and although we’re based in Edinburgh, members come from all over the UK, and we’re always looking for new ones. Anyone who thinks they have the skills and wishes to apply for membership, will find an application form at our website’’ Visit The Treasure Trove’s annual Fair on Sat 7 Oct and go to www.selfaidsociety.co.uk for details of other pop-up fairs.

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Does your child

wear glasses?

Many children wear glasses from a young age. Some have an issue which rectifies itself and for others, they will require vision correction for life. However, many parents are not aware other options available that may be more beneficial for the long term health of their eyes.

Cameron Optometry regularly prescribe contact lenses to children as young as six for a variety of reasons. Sporty children might opt for ortho-k overnight vision correction meaning they are then free from lenses and glasses by day. And for some short-sighted children, they may be advised to choose Myopia Management daily disposable contact lenses that can actually slow the progression of short-sightedness by over 50%, meaning by the time they reach adulthood their vision will be a lot better than it would have been if left with glasses. Where possible preventative measures should be taken to slow short-sightedness as high prescriptions can lead to your child developing numerous complex eye conditions in later life.

To find out more about contact lenses for children or Myopia Management, please visit cameronoptom.com/children or book a free eye examination on 0131 225 2235.

Puddle Ducks swims

into Edinburgh

Mum of two and keen swimmer, Carolyn Sharpe, is excited to have launched Puddle Ducks, a new business providing baby and preschool swimming classes, at five pools in Edinburgh. Carolyn says, “Swimming has always been a big part of my life, even more so when I started taking my son to swimming classes at seven weeks old. Children are at the centre of everything we do at Puddle Ducks, and we want to provide a fantastic experience to suit every child’s needs.” For more info call 0131 603 4608. www.puddleducks.com/local-teams/south-east-scotland

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At Cameron Optometry we have the expertise and technology to ensure your child has the most comprehensive eye examination available, giving you complete peace of mind.

Visit cameronoptom.com/children for further information.

Specialist eye care for children

Award-winning eye care

The Montessori Way Edinburgh Montessori Arts School is an independent nursery and primary school set in the beautiful green surroundings of Liberton and Blackford Hill. Their teachers and arts specialists are dedicated to inspiring children’s interests and guiding them to mastery. The breadth and depth of the Montessori curriculum allows for a rich individualised experience. In meticulously designed environments that cater for each developmental stage, they provide a dynamic base for children’s explorations of the wider world. By facilitating independence, whilst nurturing resilience and encouraging tolerance, they support children as they strive to be their best selves. www.emas.hubbli.com

5 St Vincent Street Edinburgh EH3 6SW 0131 225 2235 vision@cameronoptom.com

Imagine a school...

Where learning comes alive...

The gentle structure and positive guidance the teachers give my daughter allow her to learn and grow with such great independence.

MATIAS MALMIVAARA

Where the world is our classroom...

Our family has been made extremely welcome and our son is so happy at your school.

LUCY ROBERTSON

What has remained with her is a great enthusiasm for learning; whatever catches her interest, she is able to explore it further and knows how to go about finding out more.

Where children become confident, capable, selfeducators...

LOUISE LEAMY

CoMplete MontessorI eduCatIon for 1–12 year olds CoMpleMented by CreatIve arts speCIalIsts

tower Mains Studios, 18n liberton Brae, EH16 6AE www.emaschool.co.uk

made SEP / OCT 2017

@EMASchool

More information 0131 672 3851

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news Second year for

New Water Babies Term

Sling Show Scotland

It’s Sling Show Scotland’s second year and there’s a fantastic line-up planned for Sept 23rd at Queen Margaret University. Their goal this year is to help increase awareness of carrying and the many benefits, with a wide range of amazing exhibitors and a series of educational talks, including Dr Rosie Knowles (Sheffield Sling Surgery) and Azizah Ittard (Bebe Sachi ) as well as many others. Their workshop line-up will cover skill levels from beginner to advanced. This year they are sponsored by Oscha Slings, tickets available at www.tickettailor.com

LB with Love is expanding Would you like to be your own boss and have fun and flexibility in your work life?

Popular Edinburgh lifestyle business, LB with Love, is looking for new members to join the team.

For only £100 you will receive £200 of products of your choice to display at parties and stalls. You then just take orders and get to keep 20% of all sales.

Call Lindsay Blakemore on 07824 625032 for more info and view the range of products at www.lbwithlovegifts.com

After the holidays we’re often mindful of the importance of teaching children to swim from a very young age to keep them safe in and around water. Water Babies classes start that learning right from birth with classes in bath-like hydrotherapy pools for the teeniest of tots.

Their award winning classes teach fun, confidence and most importantly, safety skills. Their teachers are the highest trained baby swimming experts and pride themselves on building confidence of non-swimming and nervous adults too. Call 0131 554 6682 or email floating@waterbabies.co.uk for info on classes near you.

Introducing Kiddylicious Little Bistro…

This innovative range of meals specifically designed for little ones will support your child’s future health and development. They’re as good as home-made, with bigger chunks, no spouts, and nutritious, with low acidity to prevent enamel erosion. Sold in supermarkets nationwide.

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news Still time to join the fun

Monkey Music has been spending a truly magical time with children in a nurturing educational environment supported by props, musical fun and games. And there’s still time to enjoy a free trial…

For Edinburgh South (Boroughmuir - Mon am, Balerno - Tues am, Eric Liddell - Wed am/Thurs am, Marchmont - Fri am) contact Abbey morningside.pentland@monkeymusic.co.uk Or for Edinburgh North (Corstorphine - Mon am, Murrayfield - Mon pm/Thurs am, Comely Bank Tues am/Fri am, Cramond - Thurs am, Stockbridge - Mon am/Tues pm/Wed am/Sat am) contact Rachel comelybank.corstorphine@monkeymusic.co.uk

The Mackie’s family farm in Aberdeenshire, is where the wind, land and cows help power the farm and produce the fresh milk for Mackie’s indulgent ice cream.

Their ice cream cows are happy cows and crucial for the success of the business as they produce the fresh milk and cream which forms the magic of Mackie’s.

Mackie’s have both Holstein (black and white) and Jersey (pale brown) cows and a breeding programme which includes a mix with Swedish Red. Jerseys are known for their quiet temperament, ease of calving, early maturity, and great ability to convert roughage to milk.

Holstein Friesians are known for high milk production and the Swedish Red for being particularly strong and healthy.

The Jersey milk is creamier with 6% butterfat while the Holsteins produce milk of around 3.8% butterfat. Did you know a cow spends an average of 8 hours a day eating?

competition • competition • competition

Ice Cream and Chocolate WIN Mackie’s

We have prizes to give away to 3 lucky readers - each winning 5 tubs of Mackie’s ice cream and 4 bars of Mackie’s chocolate.

To be in with a chance of winning, just answer this question: Which of the following is NOT true?

A) A Jersey cow’s milk is creamier?

B) Cows spend an average of 8 minutes a day eating C) Mackie’s have Holstein and Jersey cows?

Simply email your name, contact details and answer to competitions@mademagazine.co.uk or enter via www.mademagazine.co.uk before Oct 20th.

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sign?

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2 4 3

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1. IF AT FIRST YOU DON’T SUCCEED £4.95, Dotcomgiftshop 2. WELCOME TO THE MAN CAVE £4.95, Dotcomgiftshop 3. WOODEN WALL PENNANTS by Scamp £12.50, Pippin, Haymarket, www.pippingifts.com 4. EXPLORER WOODEN PLAQUE £6.98, www.arthouse.com 5. WE SHOULD HANG SOMETHING COOL HERE £499, www.limelace.co.uk 6. BABY SLEEPING PLAQUE £5, Burble Baby 7. ‘HOME SWEET HOME’, Melody Maison, www.MelodyMaison.co.uk 8. LEAVE A LITTLE SPARKLE £12.00 LB With Love, www.lbwithlovegifts.com 14

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© HOLLY BO

OGRAPHY OTH PHOT

looking for a

by Kirsty Nicholls

WRITTEN BY Kirsty

Nicholls

© WAVEBREAK MEDIA LTD

We’ve all done it. A blog post has popped up on our Facebook timeline and we’ve had a quick squiz. Before we know it, it has absorbed us. It describes exactly how we’re feeling using words that we haven’t been able to find ourselves. So we hit “like” and share, share and share some more. And realise that we’re as normal as normal can be. Or at least, that there are other mums and dads out there who are just as weird as us. made SEP / OCT 2017

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© PHOTO BY FREEPIK.COM

PARENT BLOGGERS

J

Although it was only established 3 years ago, it already reaches a global monthly audience of 1.5 million. The company is now sharing its know-how with other wannabe bloggers through new book, The Ultimate Blog Plan. “Make sure you look at what your audience is reading and what your competitors are publishing,” she advises. “You need to create a unique voice full of personality. We put together a spreadsheet every week, picking out statistics to analyse how each of our articles has performed and why.”

Slummy Single Mummy writer Jo Middleton could also host a masterclass in blogging. Winner of numerous awards and named Top Mummy Blogger 2017, she has been writing Slummy Single Mummy for 8 years after leaving a job in fundraising and marketing. “I took a leap of faith into the world of freelance journalism,” she says. “My blog started out as a marketing tool to showcase my writing. Now I’m approached to write advertorials and sponsored posts. It was a gradual process, but the balance tipped towards it being my main source of income.”

Many a blogger’s dream is to write full time, but producing content is only part of the job. “My friend is a teacher, and so many of his students want to be bloggers,” says Dad Blog UK’s John Adams. “That isn’t as simple as it might sound,

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ohn Adams started Dad Blog UK a week before his second daughter was born in response to the “lazy sexism” he experienced as a stay at home dad. “It can’t just be me who finds it annoying,” he says. “When I’m out with the children, people often assume I’m babysitting. The nurse asked for my wife when I took my daughter for her inoculations. So my blog supports other dads who are made to feel out of place as the main carer.” John is now the UK’s top dad blogger and his writing has taken him on adventures galore. He recently found himself interviewing actor Steve Carrell and in his blog laments the fact that “I was still wearing the clothes I wore for the school run: an old pair of navy shorts missing a button.” We’ve all found ourselves in “parent clothes” at the wrong moment, right?

John is now working with four other dad bloggers to reach a combined readership of 1.2 million. The parent blogosphere is a busy space. Directory of UK parent blogs Tots100 has more than 8,000 members. To stand out in such a saturated market requires careful planning.

“Research is everything,” reveals successful blogger Beth Macdonald. Beth is Managing Editor of Career Girl Daily, which offers life improvement and career advice to young women.

© JAVIER SÁNCHEZ MINGORANCE

PARENT BLOGGERS

“

though. You need skills in videography, photography, social media management and feel confident about search engine analytics too.” And freelancing isn’t a walk in the park either. “You need to ask whether it would matter to you if you didn’t earn a penny one month,” says Laura Crichton, creator of Edinburgh with Kids. “If you’re in a position where a regular income isn’t a necessity, then blogging would be an amazing career.”

By day, Laura Crichton is a secondary school teacher. She was inspired to start her blog after reading and then writing for a site that she admired. The positive feedback she received sealed the deal and Edinburgh with Kids was born. “I want people to get a happy vibe from my blog,” she says. “It’s positive and thoughtprovoking. I’m hopefully offering a different kind of support, writing about this amazing city and all of the things there are to do here.” Hearing from people who have visited a place or tried an activity off the back of a photograph she has shared is the icing on the cake. Fellow Edinburgh

blogger Caroline Blair also loves meeting people who enjoy reading her work. “I met a friend of a friend in the park who knew me from my blog. She said my posts really resonate with her and that felt great.” Blogging is a labour of love for Caroline, creator of Finding Mum. “I post about activities that I probably wouldn’t normally go to, and have brilliant new experiences with my son. I make free vodcasts about local businesses because I love filming and editing.

It’s something for me.”

Caroline views Finding Mum as a hobby rather than a commercial venture. For many parents, simply the opportunity to write and share their thoughts is valuable enough. Jennifer Anderson recently launched Positive Mind Positive Mummy, an honest blog about living with postnatal depression. She hopes that by talking publicly about her experiences, she’ll help others who are in the same boat. “I was talking to one of the mums at the school gate and mentioned my postnatal depression. Because I had been honest, she admitted that she had some of the

My blog supports other dads who are made to feel out of place as the main carer

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”

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PARENT BLOGGERS

“

As well as helping her readers, she has found that her blog has helped loved ones to better understand her

© PHOTO BY FREEPIK.COM

”

same feelings. So I decided to talk openly about my postnatal depression, so other mums know it is okay to not be okay.” As well as helping her readers, she has found that her blog has helped loved ones to better understand her. “I am very close to my mum and although she knew how I was feeling I don’t think she truly understood,” says Jennifer. “So mum is enjoying reading things that I didn’t feel like I could speak to her about. My partner is the most supportive person I could ask for however he too is able to learn things about me that he didn’t know.”

According to Wordpress, over 409 million people are reading blogs every month. It’s inevitable that your friends, acquaintances, family and colleagues will be among them, so deciding what to put into the public sphere can be tricky. “I’m not much of an over-sharer, because I teach secondary boys,” says Laura Crichton of Edinburgh with Kids. “Once the students found my Twitter feed and thought they might discover something juicy. They soon lost interest when they saw my latest tweet was about a museum visit.”

Each and every one of us has a digital footprint and most don’t want their babies’ every vomit and nappy explosion to become googleable.

But how about our own misdemeanours? “Some bloggers purposely overshare and play on it to create a public persona,” says Laura.”But did they really feed their children fish fingers straight

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from the freezer? Probably not.” Slummy Single Mummy blogger Jo Middleton says she’ll use her blog to confess to hiding dirty dishes in the cupboard, but never push for a laugh at the expense of her children. “My children were 7 and 14 when I started the blog, so I’ve always written in the knowledge that they might read it.” Caroline Blair had a frank and honest chat with her friends and family when she launched Finding Mum. “I felt I should reassure them that I’d never communicate my thoughts or feelings to them personally through my blog,” she recalls.

“I’d never want them to read a post and think it’s a thinly veiled message to them. I have found that it gives them a heads up if I’ve had a bad week though, or helps them to better understand some of my experiences. Blogging has been a hugely positive experience.” n

Discover more about our featured bloggers...

• • • • • •

careergirldaily.com dadbloguk.com edinburghwithkids.com www.findingmum.com positivemindpositivemummy.wordpress.com slummysinglemummy.com

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New gallery and gift shop

Open Tuesday – Saturday • 10 am – 4 pm Thirty artists in one gorgeous space: art, jewellery, fashion, homewares, gifts, candles, cards...

93 Causewayside Edinburgh EH9 1QG 0131 629 9123

www.artcraftcollective.co.uk

g independent n i h c m Tea imming vfirroonmenbtiwrth sw rturing ellyn tailored actvitith

u id u a es an in indiv D e u l c d k d s di Pu

he t’s t a h …t

Call 0131 661 9590 or visit angelawatsonschoolofdance.co.uk

FREE taster session *T&Cs apply

puddleducks.com

ass

cl

Find your lo cal class at

t: 0131 6034608 sescotland@puddleducks.com

es

Royal Academy of Dance Graded and Vocational Ballet.

Tap • Modern • Hip Hop

fere nce .

TRAVEL

A

YOUR NEXT FAMILY ADVENTURE

. . . e s r t e r h a st

20

s I looked across on the flight from Dubai to Mauritius as my wife fumbled for the sick bag and my 8 month child looked up from a feed and started to cry, why oh why had I decided that a long haul trip with family was a sensible idea?!

Well, the reasons are obvious are they not?

Stimulation for the child, new experiences, different cultures? Yeah, but she was 8 months old I hear anyone sensible cry, the most stimulated she got was when I secretly fed her a chocolate donut from the breakfast buffet!

But seriously I’ve always loved to travel and have no plans to stop just because I now carry my holiday things in my pocket and my daughter Summer has me carry her three suitcases. We travel so we can get a break from normality, be it so Mum and Dad can enjoy some time eating out (thank you in-house babysitters) or so that our children can run riot on someone else’s watch.

It’s the specifics of your holiday I want to get right so you come back happy and not feeling like you need another holiday.

As a new home working travel counsellor (I’ve been a travel agent in the city for 10 years previously) I really love to arrange holidays for my clients. I’m not in the business of picking things off a shelf; if you come to me even with a vague idea, I’m here to make that process easy for you from the booking quotation all the way through to the holiday itself.

Things are changing in the travel industry very swiftly, the internet has meant that people have a lot more independence to book their own trips, but at what cost? Sure sometimes you can get a discounted trip, but as my favourite wannabe travel agent Benjamin Franklin once said, “The bitterness of poor quality remains long after the sweetness of low price is forgotten”. I’m not always going to be the cheapest, but I can guarantee you this, I’ll save you plenty of time and hassle, and add value to your experience. I’ve travelled extensively over 6 continents to over 50 countries, and I want to share my knowledge with you and I take personal pride in sending you to interesting places. Where is the best steak in Buenos Aires? Well everywhere is the honest

www.mademagazine.co.uk

TRAVEL

“

answer, but I know the place that most locals go to. Should you get that Harbour view room in Hong Kong or know where the best roof top bar is with the same views? Where’s the best family friendly resort in Majorca? Trip Advisor can only tell you so much, I’ve got numerous clients who vouch for a particular property. I’m backed up by 1600 travel experts so even if I’ve not been (it’ll be added to my list!) and I’ve got their brains to pick too.

I’m different because I really care about you and your trip; I want to find out what you love, why you want to travel, and get the best value for you for your budget. If you are looking for a personal, professional and friendly travel expert, I’m your man.

A good example of this is when a new client called me three weeks ago, looking for somewhere hot over Easter 2018. He’d been looking at Majorca and finding it more expensive than he first thought. But after a few discussions I’ve booked him and his family to Domes of Elounda in Crete, a significantly more luxurious and family friendly hotel than he would get in Majorca. And because they liked the look of it so much, two other families are coming along too.

The key thing here, is because I’d managed to get them an early booking discount they were

able to upgrade the rooms to suites. The extra space will help them all to have a relaxing time away while not tripping over each other.

There will also be a bottle of champagne waiting for each couple to enjoy on their private balconies as a thank you from me, as I really value the support they offered me with my business. Would the internet provide that kind of service for you?

I’d love to help you plan your next adventure, be it a nice sunny holiday, winter breaks in the mountains, or dare I say it…..a weekend break without the kids. I’m based in Bruntsfield and because I work from home can be available when you are, so if you want to chat through ideas over a coffee, or just want to call after the wee ones are in bed, I’ll be available. Well, unless my daughter Summer has me packing her cases for her next adventure of course! n

I take personal pride in sending you to interesting places

made SEP / OCT 2017

”

Find out more...

David Bishop is your local personal travel counsellor, so if you would like to take your family on a travelling adventure call David on 0131 516 3920 or 07896 496727 or email david.bishop@travelcounsellors.com www.travelcounsellors.co.uk/david.bishop

21

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A

t 1 o’clock this morning I found myself scrolling through listings for “vintage skirts” on eBay. It was only as my eyelids started to close by themselves that I thought to myself, “Kirsty, what on earth are you doing?’. I’d been desperate to get back into bed ever since stumbling out of it 18 hours previously. All I needed to do was to put aside my phone and lie down. But the potential of finding “the one” with just one more swipe was addictive. It was only when my husband mumbled a reminder about my fast approaching battle across town to baby hip hop that the spell was broken. Albeit reluctantly, I put my phone down and fell asleep instantly.

In the morning, my late night lunacy had taken its toll. My eBay hangover got me mulling over the weird things I do when I’m feeling a bit stressed out or angsty.

Those odd little activities that give me comfort. Who needs a therapist when you can scroll through thousands of images of second hand skirts?

I love driving in the 20 miles per hour zone. It’s really rocking my world right now. I know this admission is likely to incite a (very slow moving) truckload of rage, but hear me out. When thoughts are popping into my head ten to the dozen — “It’s 3pm and Tom still has toothpaste on his face”, “I put chicken in the slow cooker but didn’t switch it on”, “Why have I scheduled a work call at the same time as Gymboree?” — it feels calming to move so slowly. I glide serenely through the streets of Edinburgh as my brain unwinds. That is, until I’m running late. Then I quietly turn the air blue.

Yoga is my saviour. Taking an hour to stretch, breathe and clear my head has definitely curbed some of my more eccentric stressbusting shenanigans. This hasn’t stopped my

“

weekly drive round and round Oxgang’s new Aldi development, though. I’m not under the illusion that this is normal behaviour, but it has become a comforting part of our routine. My boys’ Kindergym session at the local community centre is always followed by a 15 minute tootle around the building site opposite. There are diggers! There are lorries! There’s even a road roller! Jack is absolutely enthralled and I enjoy his mega enthusiasm and excitement. It also gives me a chance to collect my thoughts and actually live in the moment, rather than rushing from pillar to post with an eye on my watch.

What’s more, the local area’s grass cutting takes place at the same time. We can’t wait to see the “little man on the little tractor” each Wednesday morning. If anyone knows him, please tell him not to be alarmed. He doesn’t have a stalker.

The woman in the car that sometimes crawls alongside him while he works is just granting a little boy’s wish. And ensuring that same little boy has a super zen mum. n

Who needs a therapist when you can scroll through thousands of images of second hand skirts?

made SEP / OCT 2017

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© MUSEYUSHAYA - FOTOLIA.COM

”

Relaxed Parenting WRITTEN BY Alison

24

© IAKOV FILIMONOV

Yardley

www.mademagazine.co.uk

© PHOTOS BY FREEPIK.COM

RELAXED PARENTING

W

“

hose toddler is this!

He’s going to fall!” came the panicked yell, from the mother standing directly opposite me at the play park, as we both watched one of the twins I nanny for play happily on the equipment. Said twin was 14 months at the time and he probably was going to fall, after all, he already had several times since we started coming to this park. But I was ok with that (and so is his mother, who thinks along the same lines as me). We both assess the potential risks the Wee3 (so named because they’re a pair of 1yr old twins and a 2yr old toddler) are taking and either guide them to a safer approach, or stand back and wait to be surprised – which we usually are (by the way, it’s amazing how motivated you become to just stand back when you have too many kids to micro-manage).

Turns out, despite how it may sometimes appear, kids don’t generally want to get hurt.

And when we stop stopping them from getting hurt, they discover how to stop it themselves, usually after a bit of trial and error. So yes, the made SEP / OCT 2017

twin probably was going to fall. However, the landing was soft, his body well padded in a fleece-lined rainsuit and he was relaxed in his play – the chances of him being badly hurt were low, the opportunity to learn was high.

I think most people know the term ‘helicopter parenting’ and I am certain we’ve all done it at some point.

Sometimes it’s necessary (at the petting zoo, for example), sometimes it’s not. Sometimes it depends on what you, as the adult in charge, can bear to watch. It takes courage to watch your children play and not call out “be careful”, or offer to help, even when we know it’s in their best interest.

Allowing our kids to play independently is a wonderful way to help them develop independence, self-control, pride in their work and the value of ‘natural consequences’. Play leaders and childcare professionals refer to this kind of free play as ‘risky play’ or ‘adventure play’. It is basically a term for how we used to play outdoors as kids – little to no adult

The chances of him being badly hurt were low, the opportunity to learn was high

”

25

RELAXED PARENTING

© IAKOV FILIMONOV

“

Standing back and watching allows your children to know you trust them

”

supervision, loose rules and a level of trust that is probably higher than our kids experience these days. I know part of that last point is due to the higher risk of road traffic accidents and our being more aware of stranger-danger, thanks to the media / social media.

Here’s the deal though – our kids aren’t learning how to fall (or not fall), deal with failure, experience the incredible high of achieving something ‘their own self’, make decisions on whether or not to share, learn how to run in barefeet over a variety of surfaces, etc. – because we aren’t allowing them to.

There is a lot to be said for standing back and just watching our kids play. They may bump themselves, or someone else, but in the grand scheme of things it probably won’t be too bad.

Sadly in today’s society we can’t generally allow children to stay out until dark playing in the streets. The opportunities to learn through this freedom are gone, so we need to create other

26

learning opportunities – the local park is your best bet, especially if it’s the Meadows, with a couple of tree stumps and a whole heap of grass. Don’t prescribe the play, just let it happen. If they get bored or demand your attention just say something along the lines of “I’m sure you’ll think of something” or “hmmm” – you’re not disagreeing with them, you’re just not willing to fix their problem.

Is allowing this kind of risk taking just lazy parenting? Is it an excuse to chat and use your phone more, while the children run amok? Nope.

It’s allowing your children to make their own decisions, to choose how they play. It’s allowing your children to take small risks now so that they have the skills necessary, in this big, scary world, to stop themselves making huge, stupid, life altering mistakes when they’re bigger. Standing back and watching allows your children to know you trust them. This builds their self confidence and feeling of self worth. It builds a robust child who knows their limits and what their bodies can and can’t do. It also allows you to relax and take a break. Be there for your child if they need you (although encourage them to try first), but where possible try to stand back.

And guess what, now when we go to the park the twins don’t fall off that piece of equipment any more. And I still don’t run myself ragged chasing after them. I sit on the bench and wave and praise and think about what we’ll have for dinner. n

Find out more...

Alison Yardley is a long-time nanny, currently enjoying the company of three thrill-seeking toddlers (16 month twins and a 2.5yr old).

She also runs Lighter Parenting and has recently started Forestille – forest-play classes for under 5’s and their adults. With Forestille running all year round Alison is hoping to normalise Forestille outdoor play, even in horrible Outdoor fun for little ones www.lighterparenting.com/forestille weather.

www.mademagazine.co.uk

S TH S ONE AR M Y 1 8 17 TO

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PHOTOGRAPHY

The C Word Dare I say it? Christmas! OMG can you believe it is nearly here?

WRITTEN BY EDINBURGH-BASED PHOTOGRAPHER Diana

Baker

D

uring my first Christmas as a mum (7 months pregnant), I started a Pinterest board of all the aspirational traditions I thought would bring us all happiness: amazing house decorations, presents that would excite, flour outlined Santa foot prints. I wanted it all!

But when reality hit and my daughter was born, her first couple of Christmases were sleep-deprived guilt-ridden hazes, that I am kind of glad she won’t remember. Settling for an Amazon-supplied Christmas-in-a-box got the job done, but it sure did lack the feeling of Christmas.

But not this year! This year is going to be different: no stress only fun!

Mums, it is time to remember that we too deserve to have fun over Christmas. To play, laugh and enjoy the season with our children. I want us all to have traditions that add to our happiness and not our stress levels. I want us to start a tradition of happiness.

Making and capturing meaningful family memories is at the core of what I do as a photographer, and fun is something I want my Christmases to be focused around. Not standing in line for hours with unhappy kids, just to get the same photo with Santa that everyone else has. That is why starting this year, every November, I will be hosting Christmas-themed mini photography shoots that are fun, cheeky, and something the kids will look forward to every year.

This year for the kids we will have milk and cookies, dressing up in Santa outfits, tying up their sibling in Christmas ribbon, and pretending to be an angel in the clouds, fun memories they will cherish. If you are ready for a change and want your child’s Christmas photos to be something you will want to keep up all year round, come join us in November and remember how fun Christmas really is. n

Book now...

To book call 07546 987 017 or visit our online shop at www.dianabakerphotography.com/shop Sessions are £35 per child, but for our MADE magazine readers, redeem a gift of 50% off your session fee when you use the discount code: FUN Prints and perfect Christmas gift options start at £5.90.

To avoid disappointment session times are available on our website now.

28

www.mademagazine.co.uk

Christmas Mini Photography Shoots Available for the month of November only, ÂŁ35 per child. Prints start at ÂŁ5.90 To book visit www.dianabakerphotography.com/shop Phone: 07546 987017

Dates for your diary Monday Tuesday

Wednesday Thursday

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Plan a visit to Brick City @ New Lanark before it finishes on Sept 10th!

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10am & 11.30am (40mins) Tiny Tales: Into The Jungle @ Scottish Storytelling Centre. A wonderful interactive session with puppets, props and lots of well-known nursery rhymes. Please book in advance. £5 per child, for ages 2-5.

INTO THE JUNGLE @SCOTTISH STORYTELLING CENTRE 12 SEPT

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Kids’ meditation and mindfulness every Monday @ Wishing Tree Play Cafe.

Hosted by Kids Glow. P1-P2 3.30pm, P3-P7 4.30pm.

10:30–10:55, 11:30–11:55 Magic Carpet @ National Museum.

Introduce little ones (aged 2-4) to objects in the Museum through stories, songs and activities. Limited places, on a first come, first served basis, FREE.

EXPLORATHON 29-30 SEPT

For more information about what’s on log onto 30

www.mademagazine mademagazine.co.uk .co.uk www.

www.mademagazine.co.uk

September 2017

Spotlight on...

Friday Saturday Sunday 1 2 Midstock Festival @ Dalkeith Country Park.

Family based festival for all music lovers!

On Sept 1st & 2nd

3

2pm - 4pm Tea in the Park - fun day and duck race @ Braidburn Valley Park

Explorathon

TEA IN THE PARK @ BRAIDBURN VALLEY PARK 2 SEPT

8 9 Doors Open Day in Midlothian.

Get into buildings free! www.doorsopendays.org.uk

15 16

© JOHN RITCHIE

HERBAL MAGIC AND POTENT POTIONS @ SCOTTISH STORYTELLING CENTRE 16 SEPT

2pm (1hr 20) Herbal Magic and Potent Potions @ Scottish Storytelling Centre. Scottish plant lore, enchantment, legends and the opportunity to try traditional potions and make a magical tattie bogle! £6 per child, for ages 7-12 years.

22 23 Sling Show Scotland @ Queen Margaret University, Edinburgh. Exhibitors, professionals and workshops bringing baby-wearing to the masses

10 Day Out With Thomas @ Bo’ness & Kenneil Railway.

Engines with friendly faces, children’s entertainment and fairground attractions.

Booking essential, on 9th too.

17

1pm & 3.30pm FUNBOX presents Highland Fling @ The Brunton. Join the gang in a trip to the Highlands to battle midgies, become monarchs of the glen and hear the skirl of the bagpipes in their latest singalong adventure. On 16th too.

24

Doors Open Day in Edinburgh Sept 23rd & 24th.

Get into buildings free! www.doorsopendays.org.uk

29 30 Explorathon is back on Sept 29th & 30th!

Enjoy FREE storytelling, crafting and fun experiments.

Visit explorathon.co.uk/ edinburgh

12pm - 6pm Canteen @ Archerfield Walled Garden.

Street food market featuring acclaimed traders, music and an open-air bar. This closing party for the season will be a big one! www.roguevillage.com

MURDER AT THE MUSEUM National Museum of Scotland 12pm – 4pm (all ages) No booking required

Join experts to test your forensic reconstruction skills, learn about the lethal links between poison and herbalism, and dig into the stories behind death, past and present.

EXPLORATHON @ LEITH LABS Ocean Terminal 12pm – 7pm (all ages) No booking required

Find out about the amazing things happening in research while you do your shopping! An extravaganza of demonstrations, amazing installations and fascinating exhibits.

EXPLORATHON @ THE JOHN HOPE GATEWAY Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh, 12pm – 4pm (all ages) No booking required

Play the virtual forest strategy simulation game CALEDON and pit your wits against the bugs and beasties that threaten our trees.

LOADS of events happening across the city on September 29th and 30th. For more info go to explorathon.co.uk/ edinburgh

Kids Kalendar at www.kidskalendar.co.uk made SEP JAN // OCT FEB 2017 2017

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Dates for your diary Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday 1 OCTOBER – 20 NOVEMBER 2 Enter MADE’s competition before Oct 20th.

There are prizes for 3 readers to win Mackie’s ice cream and chocolate.

See details on page 13.

3

4

KUMON MATHS ANDTry ENGLISH Kumon Edinburgh, STUDY CENTRES Morningside’s two-week

5

FREE trial between Book now!

1 Oct - 20 Nov. Edinburgh, Morningside Call Christine Johnston on 0131 466 9235 0131 466 9235 for more info.

Terms and conditions apply.

9

10

11

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10am & 11.30am (40mins) Tiny Tales @ Scottish Storytelling Centre. A monthly session for little ones to get interactive with storytelling.

Please book in advance. £5 per child, for ages 2-5.

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National Baby Swimming Week runs 16 Oct - 22 Oct, and celebrates the joys of baby swimming, organised

by Water Babies. Visit www. nationalbabyswimmingweek.org.uk

10.30am - 12pm Fairy and Fungi @ Hopetoun House. Explore magical woods, find fairies, fungi and hear folklore stories.

Booking essential via ranger@hopetoun.co.uk or 0131 319 3956

2pm - 3.30pm Woodland Magic @ Hopetoun House.

Witches and Wizards, make potions and broomsticks.

Booking essential via ranger@hopetoun.co.uk or 0131 319 3956

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19 WOODLAND MAGIC @HOPETOUN HOUSE 18 OCT

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FAIRY AND FUNGI @HOPETOUN HOUSE - 17 OCT

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For more information about what’s on log onto 32

www.mademagazine.co.uk

www.mademagazine.co.uk

October 2017 Spotlight on...

Friday Saturday Sunday

THE TREASURE TROVE POP-UP CRAFT FAIR 7 OCT

10am - 3pm The Treasure Trove Pop-Up Craft Fair @ St Andrew’s & St George’s West Church, George St. Beautiful hand-made crafts, toys and children’s clothes.

FREE. Everyone welcome!

13 14 Edinburgh Coffee Festival @ The Corn Exchange.

3000 coffee lovers, 40 speciality coffee and tea exhibitors and some of the best coffee cocktails, food and cake around.

20 21 The Scottish International Storytelling Festival runs Oct 20th - 31st. Family friendly festival offering tales, songs, dance, dressing up and adventure!

See spotlight.

11am - 4pm Pirate Weekend @ Scottish Seabird Centre.

A weekend full of competitions, sabre skills, pirate penny games, treasure hunts and other activities. www.seabird.org

27 28 Steam n Scream @ Bo’ness & Kinneil Railway.

Halloween treats, a fancy dress competition and other spooky fun. Book in advance.

On 29th too.

8 2pm (2hrs) Creative Writing Workshop (for ages 8-15) @ Scottish Storytelling Centre.

The group find story ideas and then start writing a novel. A fun session is guaranteed, who knows where it might lead. £16.

The Scottish International Storytelling Festival

15

Oct 20th - 31st scottishstorytelling centre.co.uk EDINBURGH COFFEE FESTIVAL @ THE CORN EXCHANGE - 14 OCT

22

PIRATE WEEKEND @ SCOTTISH SEABIRD CENTRE 21 & 22 OCT

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©GARETH EASTON

6 7

Halloween Hop Monster Mash Up @ The Jam House and Ghost Train @ Usher Hall Read about these and more Halloween events on pages 35 and 36

Monster Mash Up

Twelve days of storytelling events in Edinburgh and across Scotland; performances, workshops, talks and children’s events radiate out from Scotland’s capital as the best of Scotland’s storytelling talent merge with invited guests from all over the world.

Great stories well told have the ability to evoke indelible images in the mind of the listener, offering visitors and locals a wonderful opportunity to enjoy the extraordinary tales, music and characters that bring both our contemporary and traditional culture to life.

Kids Kalendar at www.kidskalendar.co.uk made SEP / OCT 2017

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POP UP PARENTS’ EVENTS

Activity Classes for Children and their families

Secret Garden

PRESENTS

lay Soft eP play & Frerea A

Children ’s Themed Parties

Event Hire

unity Comm b Hu

Monster Mash Up

Sunday 29th October

DRESS AS YOU www.wishingtreeplaycafe.com or email us info@wishingtreeplaycafe.com 85 High Street, Musselburgh, EH21 7DA. T: 0131 665 1588

wishingtreeplaycafe

ON

For more info or to book a party please contact Bev Anderson

dare

FA N

P CY D RESS COM

I ET

TI

Times: 10-11.30am / 12.30pm-2pm / 3-4.30pm

Ticket Cost: £9 each

Booking: buytickets.at/popupparentsevents

© ILLUSTRATIONS DESIGNED BY FREEPIK.COM

THE JAM HOUSE 5 Queen Street, Edinburgh, EH12 1JE

magazine

The must-have magazine for Edinburgh mums and dads

www.mademagazine.co.uk

A Cooky Spooky Musical for all the family.

Gorrid is a whitchy poo beast trying to gain her ghastly cookery badge by creating her most rancid dish but no matter how hard Gorrid tries everything she makes tastes sooooo good, which is the exact opposite from what the teacher wants!

Poor Gorrid... with the help of her friends can she find the missing ingredient to help her pass the test?

Come dressed as your favourite spooky character and join in the fun with Gorrid!

Dress up as your favourite little monster and enjoy loads of spooky, gooey games, dooking for apples, messy spaghetti, dancing games (with prizes) and ghoulish treats! There’s also a prize for the best dressed parent! The party is for under fives and is £8.95 per child (under 1s free). Book your child’s space by calling 0131 665 1588 or Facebook message or pop into the cafe.

made SEP / OCT 2017

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Sun 29 Oct, 10-11.30am, 12.30-2pm, 3-4.30pm £9 The Jam House, Queen Street buytickets.at/popupparentsevents hello@popupparentsevents.co.uk

Monster Mash Up

BOO! The sold-out Halloween Hop from Pop Up Parents’ Events is back for 2017, jam packed with even more frightful fun than ever! Enjoy a Halloween Hop Dance Party, Mysterious Messy Play, Magic Mirror, Ghoulish Games, Creepy Creatures Animal Handling, Frightful Face Painting, Phantom Photo Booth, Chilling Crafts and Mischievous Mascot

All aboard if you dare! Take your (First Class) seats for a jaw-jangling journey on the eerie RSNO express. Owen and Olly will be your ghoulish guides for this hair-raising adventure filled with ghost busting moves, creepy creatures and spooky sing-a-longs. Discover some truly terrifying tunes, as we stop at some of the most spine-chilling stations of the music world - are you brave enough to jump on?

BEAR’s new limited edition packs of Claws are a healthier trick or treat snack for kids this October.

Parents can be confident that cubs are enjoying 100% natural pure fruit and veg, in a spooktacular pack and four terrifyingly tasty recipes; blackcurrant and beetroot, strawberry and butternut, mango and carrot as well as apple, pear and pumpkin.

A Monster of a Book An A-Z of Monsters and Magical Beings is a fantastic, original exploration of weird, wonderful and scary monsters. Do you know how to escape from a stalking werewolf? Always wanted to learn the difference between a hobgoblin and an imp? Learn these facts and more with this strange and wonderful guide. For children aged 4+. www.laurenceking.com

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www.mademagazine.co.uk

Control the cameras and zoom in on the super-cute seals.

Seal season from October.

Only 30 mins from Edinburgh. www.seabird.org Image © Maggie Sheddan / Scottish Charity no SC025837

DISCOVERY CENTRE · BOAT TRIPS · CAFÉ · GIFT SHOP

© Simone Hilliard Photography, Davidson Mains

P L AY CAF E Fun. Food. Family. Friends.

Sunday 29th October:

Halloween Party 3pm - 5pm Friday 3rd November:

Family Feast Night 1st Anniversary Party (French cuisine) 5.30pm - 7.30pm

PLUS…

IT’S BAC K!

Sunday 17th December: Christmas Party 3pm - 5pm Friday 17th November:

Ladies Night 7pm - 11pm

EVEN

TS

FOR T HE W H FAMIL OLE Y

For more info and to book tickets online: www.turtledoveplaycafe.co.uk

www.turtledoveplaycafe.co.uk

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

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BY D ITTEN

Technology aimed at kids might get a bad rap in the press, but not all gadgets are about gluing our children to a screen for hours. In fact, there are products out there that can actually help improve our kid’s lives – and we’re not talking about their coolness factor in the playground either! From kid activity trackers and apps that encourage children to get outdoors, robots that teach your computer coding and kid smart watches that allow children to contact their parents – our favourite tech products are sure to make you and your child’s life a little easier.

Sleep – we all need it, but some reason children seem to have an eternal urge to fight it! Thankfully the Gro-Clock is on hand to help. The digital clock teaches young children when it’s time to get up and when it’s still time to stay in bed, by alternating between a bright sunshine and sleepy stars. It also features an alarm for the lucky parents amongst us who need to wake their kids up in the morning!

There’s also an option to display a countdown from night to day time, making this a great tool for older children too.

Sickness is a worrying time for any parent. Our need to keep an eye on our child’s temperature at night time, makes sleep almost impossible for either party! The Pacif-i offers a much-needed alternative to hovering in the darkness with a digital thermometer, by allowing parents to monitor their baby’s temperature on their mobile phone. The high-tech dummy uses Bluetooth Low Energy to transmit data up to 50 feet, giving us the chance to rest, whilst keeping an eye on our little one’s temperature.

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TOP TECH FOR KIDS

Getting a reluctant child to clean their teeth twice a day can be a big challenge for parents.

Thankfully the Philips Sonicare for Kids has the answer. The electric toothbrush, which pairs up with a kid friendly app on phones and tablets, introduces children to the character of Sparkly, a tooth-loving monster who will help them brush their teeth. Sparkly teaches kids about dental hygiene and rewards them for good tooth brushing techniques - making this product a dream to use.

If boosting your child’s fitness levels sounds appealing, but you’re worried that they might feel too old for the Kidizoom watch, the Garmin Vivafit is a brilliant alternative. The durable and very wearable Vivafit Jr, records your child’s fitness levels and challenges them to get active for at least 60 minutes every day. Watch their fitness levels increase through the parent’s app which you can download to your phone.

The Kidizoom Watch makes exercise fun for kids. The smartwatch comes with a whole host of activities for your child to enjoy - from taking photographs, making videos and teaching them to tell the time. But the feature that makes this gadget one of our favourite is its motion games and pedometer, which encourages kids to get moving. made SEP / OCT 2017

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TOP TECH FOR KIDS

Giving your child a mobile phone can open a whole can of worms that they may not be ready for, but the benefits that they offer in an emergency are undeniable. The Gator Watch is the perfect compromise for children who are stepping out alone for the first time, but aren’t responsible enough for a phone.

The watch is simplistic in its design, with no fancy apps or access to social media, but arms children with the ability to make and receive calls from a range of pre-programmed “safe” numbers.

Don’t be deceived by the cuteness factor of this adorable little robot – he’s much more than just a pretty face!

The award winning Cubetto, teaches children as young as three the basics of computer coding. Using a coding board and blocks, children can write a programme for Cubetto then watch as he reaches their chosen destination on the map. The function element of the board lets kids create sub routes and loops, making this an educational and fun piece of tech.

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TOP TECH FOR KIDS

Persil Wild Explorers encourages families to get out in the wild and enjoy nature. The clever app offers suggestions on activities that the whole family can enjoy outdoor, with tailored suggestions based on your child’s age and the time that you have available.

From building a bird’s nest to enjoying time in the rain – the app is sure to provide you and your kids all the inspiration you need to get outdoors.

Ever wondered why our kids struggle to learn their timetables, but pick up the words to the latest pop song within two minutes flat?

Maths Rockx has! This clever app takes catchy pop songs from the likes of One Direction and Pharrell Williams and changes their lyrics to teach children their times tables in a way that is both fun and enjoyable!

The brand new cutesy Suzy Snooze isn’t just a pretty accessory for the nursery - she’s an all singing, all dancing baby monitor which actually helps your baby to sleep. After playing soothing music to help your child nod off, she emits a special orange colour which is designed to induce sleep hormones, then helps them stay in their bed by teaching them the difference between day and night via her sleepy time hat. Couple all that with the fact that she lets you monitor your baby from your smartphone up to 50 meters away and you’ve got yourself a winning piece of kid friendly tech.

So, there you go - 10 tech products that will make our kid’s lives a little bit easier and a lot more enjoyable too! Just make sure you keep your hands off! made SEP / OCT 2017

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- Hand ball ckey - Rugby Football - Ho

ball Cricket - Base Basketball Dodgeball -

Multi-Sports Coaching Programme teaching children aged 2-10.

Children will learn 8 different sports over the school year whilst learning great social skills and having fun!

Our highly trained enthusiastic coaches ensure your child’s first sporting experience is the best start possible.

Classes in Edinburgh, East Lothian, Midlothian and West Lothian

07598 569 325 info@bumblebeesports.co.uk www.bumblebeesports.co.uk june 2016 invite.qxp_a5 invite 15/05/2017 15:28 Page 1

The Treasure Trove Pop-up CRAFT FAIR Saturday 7 October 2017 10am – 3pm at

ST ANDREW’S & ST GEORGE’S WEST CHURCH, 13 GEORGE STREET, EDINBURGH EH2 3PA

All Welcome Free Admission Beautifully hand-made crafts, toys and children’s clothes.

Traditional smocking, baby knits, home produce, craft demonstrations.

Meet for coffee or lunch at The Undercroft Café Royal Edinburgh Repository & Self Aid Society Registered Charity No SC006702 (SCIO) 23a Castle Street, Edinburgh EH2 3DN

AGONY AUNT

Jojo!

Trust

You can always trust comedian JoJo Sutherland for her interesting childcare advice! For more laughs follow her @jojosutherland and go to www.jojosutherland.co.uk to keep up-to-date with her Edinburgh gigs.

My daughter played in a football match final

is which leaves me little hope that I will

recently and oh how I roared with delight

ever understand the offside rule. It does,

when the first goal was scored, quickly

however, confirm that I may need glasses.

followed by glares of hostility from my

I’m not a lover of sport, well not the ones that involve me shivering outside with no seating. Why have none of my kids shown any interest in the pursuits of cosy sports like darts or snooker? I could get on board with those and there’s a lot less screaming. I think I will stick to my own rigorous exercise regime which involves me lifting a bottle of wine and filling my glass!

fellow parents (who are all experts I might add) as I was informed that I was cheering the opposite team! Oops! You would think, after all the endless hours watching the game, almost always, on cold wet Saturday mornings that I might have grasped the basics, but failing to recognise which team

Dear Jojo How do I stop my two youngest from constantly fighting? Mary, Blackhall Dear Mary Sit them both down and tell them that if it continues then you will have to let one of them go. They can decide which one. That’s a joke, people! No children were abandoned in the making of that last sentence. I think sibling rivalry and fights are part and parcel of growing up and amazingly create a bond that will continue into adulthood. The screaming that goes on between my lot is so unbearable at times I’ve had to invest in earplugs.

Jojo x

© DESIGNED BY FREEP-

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shopping Go botanical at home with this season’s hottest trend 1.

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PALM PARADISE £240.00, Harvey Norman AT HOME WITH PLANTS £19.99 HOW NOT TO KILL YOUR PLANTS £16.99 LIVING WITH PLANTS £14.99 PLANT POT £9.95 BOTANICAL HOOPS £9.95-£14.95 All from Pippin, Haymarket www.pippingifts.com

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TROPICAL PALM CUSHION (BLACK) £86.00, Jan Constantine

Original gifts

LEAF BOWL £5.99 HomeSense

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PALM LEAF PRINT IPHONE HARD CASE £11.99, TK Maxx

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

10. TROPICAL LEAF MELAMINE TRAY £14.95, MiaFleur

11. DAISY & DOT

ELDERFLOWER AND GOOSEBERRY SOY WAX CANDLES £9.95, Pippin, Haymarket www.pippingifts.com

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30 Haymarket Terrace www.pippingifts.com

0131 347 8657

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LOVE & MARRIAGE

...ACCORDING TO KIDS I guess I’ll start dating in my teens. It’s sort of when you’re old but not too old - still small but not too small.

Zoe (8)

You have to be 20 years or older for dating ‘cause young people can’t find a girlfriend that quickly.

Thomas (9)

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I can tell when one of my friends is in love ‘cause they look odd.

Poppy (5)

Marriage is like a lucky dip. You never know what ring you’re going to get.

Jack (9)

www.mademagazine.co.uk

ACCORDING TO KIDS

It looks silly if you get married when you’re a kid ‘cause everyone will just think you’re the flower girl.

Jessie (6)

It’s better for girls to be single but not for boys.

Boys need someone to clean up after them.

Anna (9)

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When you grow up to be a princess, you marry a handsome prince.

India-Rose (4)

I don’t think I’ll be getting married and having kids.

A wife and kids will just bug me.

Jaspar (9)

No age is good to get married at. You got to be a fool to get married.

Freddie (6)

© DESIGNED BY FREEPIK.COM

People get married so they can get some money to buy a house and a car.

Myles (7)

If it’s a nice and sunny day, I would get married in a nice garden, but if it’s raining or really cloudy I’d go into a really big church. And then after that, we would go to Aviemore for 5 days.

Freya (6)

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out & about

Photocall

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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

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1. Kids leapt into The Centre, Livingston to join award-winning artist, Ciara Veronica Dunne, as part of the mall’s Leap into Summer Frog Trail exhibition. Pictured here are Ali Imran (7), Sehar Imran (11) Jessica Dempster (11) and Jamie Dempster (10).

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out & about

2. Children from local EarlyDays Nursery enjoying new free tour allowing them to solve a mystery by following in the footsteps of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle.

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3. Dale and ‘Brian the Bumblebee’ from Bumblebee Sports providing sporting entertainment for kids at Party at the Palace in Linlithgow.

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4 4. Outdoor Nursery Edinburgh held an outdoor tea party to raise funds for Marie Curie, a cause close to their heart.

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5. Parent and child swimming provider, Turtle Tots Edinburgh & East Lothian, celebrates five successful years in the capital.

Happy birthday, Turtle Tots!

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6. Children enjoying One Big Day fundraising event at The Centre, Livingston.

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TRIED

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ON TRIAL... Tom Thumb Baby Equipment Hire In this edition we spoke with Celia Shearer (59) from Edinburgh after she used local business, Tom Thumb Baby Equipment Hire, who provide quality baby and child equipment rental for your holiday to Edinburgh.

Celia says: A friend of mine had booked a pram from Tom Thumb in the past when she had visitors coming from overseas and recommended their services to me. I then did a web search and found their website.

What made you decide to book with them?

Definitely for the ease and convenience they provide. My daughter and her family live in Australia so it’s a long way to come and bring all the stuff they need for my two little grandchildren, Damien (3) and Jonathan (just turned 1).

What did you book?

I rented two travel cots, two car seats, a highchair and a toy box for the boys. All the items were of excellent quality and the boys loved the toys!

How did you book?

I just went onto the website and chose what I wanted. I could see whether something was available straightaway and was able to book it.

How did you get the items?

I decided to get them delivered and picked up as I live locally – I selected a day slot and the items were delivered within the time stated.

Verdict: I loved the service and highly recommend it! It helped us enormously and I’ll definitely use again when family or friends come to stay.

For more information about Tom Thumb Baby Equipment Hire go to www.tomthumbbabyequipmenthire.co.uk

If you are a business owner and would like MADE to test your service/product get in touch at mademag@live.co.uk 50

www.mademagazine.co.uk

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1 OCTOBER – 20 NOVEMBER KUMON MATHS AND ENGLISH STUDY CENTRES

Book now!

Edinburgh, Morningside 0131 466 9235 Terms and conditions apply.

We meet on s Friday morning ime, during term-t am, 10am until 11 el, at Charlotte Chap e.

58 Shandwick Plac . £3 per family

Rainbow Be ats is a funfilled hour of music and play for 0-5yr o lds and their grown up .

Join us as we sing, dance, pl ay and learn abou t God’s wonderf ul world.

Find out more at pel.org www.charlottecha

Register your space at rainbowbeatsm usic@gmail.com

babashuh

Unusual, often unique, handmade gifts for babies and children Bespoke and off-the-peg Perfect for baby showers, birthdays and christenings

fun classes • exci-ng recipes • explore new foods • weekly term -me classes (2-­‐5 yrs) • a=er school classes • nurseries • birthday par-es ( 2 -­‐11 yrs) • school holiday workshops (2-­‐11 yrs) • please contact me to find a suitable class Call Fiona on 07900093946/ email Fiona@cra=ycooks.co.uk or facebook Cra=y Cooks Edinburgh

www.babashuh.co.uk

email: linsay@babashuh.co.uk £1 in every £10 spent with us is donated to Bliss Baby Charity

! made SEP / OCT 2017

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Y er DA ctob EN h O pm OP y 8t .30 1 a nd om u r S f

PUBLIC SCHOOL OF THE YEAR

A strong foundation for the future, a family for life Full boarding ethos, day pupils also welcome • Co-educational 7-18 Excellent IB, A Level and GCSE results • Superb pastoral care Strong sporting tradition • Innovative careers partnership programme Bursaries, Scholarships and Awards available To arrange a visit, please call our Registrar on 0131 311 6744 admissions@fettes.com www.fettes.com