MADE Magazine Sept/Oct 2018 by MADE (Mums and Dads Edinburgh) magazine

made mums and dads edinburgh SCHOOL OPEN DAYS ADVICE

NEWS & REVIEWS NEW SEASON STYLE

SEP/OCT 2018

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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

WELCOME Contributors We asked some of the MADE team about their favourite kids’ movies…

Kyla Donaldson Labyrinth. But I can’t decide if that counts as a kids’ film? Otherwise it would have to be Monsters, Inc.

This edition marks seven years of MADE. I am delighted with how far the magazine has come. As well as being the funnest job out there (getting to work with all the brilliant business owners and chat to the readers) it now helps me get through life. For example, in the next two months I’ll be buying that amazing

Caroline McClean

lamp from page 23, I’ll be visiting

Frozen. Thanks to watching it about 100 times with my youngest, I know every word! I sing along throughout the film - fab for me, not so fab for anyone else forced to listen to me!

Cairnies Fruit Farm at Halloween for our pumpkins, I’ll be booking a Christmas photo shoot with the fabulous Diana Baker (pages 32-33) and I’ll be playing with my new toy,

Claire Daly My favourite children’s film is Kiki’s Delivery Service, about the adventures of a little girl and her cat. I love all the Studio Ghibli films, especially the ones with flying creatures in them.

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

Dusty (page 24). Here’s to the next seven years!

Louise x

Editor & Publisher Louise Wilson Designer

Marie Martin, MAMi Designs

Sales Executive

Caroline McClean

Feature Writer

Claire Daly, Kyla Donaldson

Columnists

Claire Daly, Michael Atkinson

Front Cover

Blue Sky Photography

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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CONTENTS SEP / OCT 2018

6 News 17 Adventures with worms By Claire Daly

23 New season shopping Scandi Style

24 MADE Reviews: The EFUY RoboVac

25 New season shopping Bag some colour

27 Big screen for small people By Kyla Donaldson

34 What’s on guide September and October

38 Halloween Fun For all the family

25 52 MADE Reviews: Fazenda, George St

54 Merbabies Swim School Baby-led swimming

56 Lotties Baby Boutique A community for mums

58 Pumpkin Season at Cairnie Fruit Farm

60 Children’s Eyecare at Specsavers

45 School open day advice

62 Happy Birthday to you!

50 God

66 A Walk in Bear Country

According to kids…

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By Claire Daly

NEWS EXPANSION PLANS FOR GYMBOREE EDINBURGH Gymboree Play and Music Edinburgh are delighted to announce they are opening a second Play Floor at the end of this year giving the opportunity to expand their timetable; offering many more classes to children from 0-5 in Edinburgh. If you are interested in a FREE trial, please email edinburgh@gymboreeclasses.co.uk and experience the magical word of Gymboree classes for yourself.

Make your little one’s Official Sponsors of an birthday unforgettable one.

Award winning classes for 0-5yrs Cherish Childhood Build and childhood intellectual with language We aresocial cherishing at skills Gymboree Edinburgh Party sodevelopment, comeLet’s along and celebrate at ourand freemore. events! art, group play Gymboree Play & Music Edinburgh Edinburgh hosts Gymboree award Sensory winning Baby parties for 1-5 yrs olds Play 3 Gorgie Park Road, Edinburgh, EH14 1NL

Our birthday parties are& energetic, Fun, creative Play Learn and full of engaging 07910baby/child 188 713 led activities.

Music Book your Gymboree Play & Music party today! edinburgh@gymboree-uk.com Art & Parties gymboree-uk.com #cherishchildhooduk

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SKYLARK CAFÉ - A BUSINESS OF TWO HALVES Skylark Café in Stockbridge is bright and airy out front where you can enjoy excellent coffee and freshly pressed juices while people-watching. In the back room it’s more like a fairytale cottage, where, Monday to Wednesday you’ll find folk singer Gill Bowman singing with babies, toddlers and parents. Song Circle is a unique, independent and very popular singing group. From Thursday, right through the weekend there’s extra seating, with plenty of room for pushchairs and toys so wee ones can toddle around.

TACTILE HEAVEN FOR PRE-SCHOOLERS Baby-toddler group, Wooden Toys Edinburgh, offers imaginative play sessions for preschoolers by providing a large variety of toys that encourage creative and meaningful fun. Their wooden and natural material toys are sustainable and not on most toy shop shelves. With something to suit all ages; from colourful mobiles for babies to climbing frames and slides for confident walkers, the different sections enhance different skills. Sessions in Trinity and Comely Bank include delicious, healthy vegan and non-vegan snacks; sweet treats, tea and real coffee for adults; and song time with well-known and well-loved nursery rhymes. woodentoysedinburgh.co.uk

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Nursery, RAD and Adult Ballet • Commercial • Jazz • Tap • Competition Classes

Discover the

MACKIE’S FIRST ICE-CREAM PARLOUR Mackie’s first ice cream parlour and coffee shop is located in Marischal Square, Aberdeen -19.2 miles from the family farm. With an exciting choice of treats available, including more than 20 flavours of ice cream, freshly made waffles and crêpes, build your own sundaes and a chocolate tap providing an endless flow of real melted milk chocolate - this is a ‘must visit’ when in the North East! Check out Facebook page – @mackies19.2

of dance!

Fun and engaging classes for all

from children 3 years to adult

Angela Watson SCHOOL OF DANCE

07792 152 966 Nursery, RAD and Adult Ballet • Commercial • Jazz • Tap • Competition Classes

Discover the

of dance! Branches in Colinton, Fairmilehead and Firrhill Principal: Angela Watson ARAD RAD RTS

Fun and engaging classes for all

from children 3 years to adult

www.angelawatsonschoolofdance.co.uk •

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Angela Watson SCHOOL OF DANCE

07792 152 966 Branches in Colinton, Fairmilehead and Firrhill Principal: Angela Watson ARAD RAD RTS www.angelawatsonschoolofdance.co.uk •

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07792 152 966

NEWS CREATIVE ADVENTURERS THIS SEPTEMBER WEEKEND Young adventurers can unleash their imaginations with a host of fun activities at Fort Douglas this September weekend (15 17 Sept). Activities include den building, kite making, spaghetti architecture, pebble painting; encouraging children to get creative whilst also exploring the magical tree house, highrise walkways, tube slides and zip wires in the playground. Julie Merrilees, Visitor Services Manager at Dalkeith Country Park, said: “There’s no need to book in advance, all activities can be enjoyed upon entry to Fort Douglas with lots on offer for all ages.” www.dalkeithcountrypark.co.uk

HAPPY BIRTHDAY ART & CRAFT COLLECTIVE

Art & Craft Collective at Causewayside is now one year old, and has grown from 21 artists and crafters, to 55 today. To celebrate their birthday on Friday 7 Sept, local MP Ian Murray will cut the cake and say a few words, and the Art & Craft team would love you to join them from 4pm - there’ll be Prosecco!

NEW CLASSROOM FOR MONTESSORI ARTS SCHOOL Edinburgh Montessori Arts School in Liberton has been busy preparing their brand new bespoke classroom space, designed to house the mixed-age primary class alongside a dedicated music room and art studio. Principal, Emma Rattigan, tells us, ‘Our eldest pupils spent time working with our architect, learning how she developed her plan and drawings. They created scale 3D models of the space. This year’s challenge is to design and plant a garden alongside their new classroom.” School tours run once a month and can be booked via the school office. www.emaschool.co.uk

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FREE

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Church of the Good Shepherd, Murrayfield Avenue, Edinburgh, EH12 6AU Church of the Good Shepherd Tel: 0131 346 8921 Murrayﬁeld Avenue, Edinburgh, EH12 6AU Mobile: 07799 523 719 www.themontessorinurseryschool.com

MATHS AND ENGLISH STUDY ANY CHILD, ANY ABILITY

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Edinburgh, Morningside Study Centre 0131 466 9235

Mature, experienced, university educated staﬀ. Spacious classroom and outdoor environment. Term time (08.15-15.00) for 2.5 to 6 year olds.

Developing ability for 60 years Terms and conditions apply.

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ALL ON ONE CAMPUS Visit Watson’s Open Morning on 6 October and see what it means to be part of the Watson’s family; where girls and boys from Nursery through to S6 share a caring, friendly and stimulating environment. An unrivalled choice of subjects and levels are available; and pupils are encouraged to challenge themselves both academically and through the school’s broad range of extracurricular activities. The state-of-the-art Centre for Sport provides magnificent sporting facilities, and flexible wraparound and holiday care is available for younger pupils. www.gwc.org.uk/open made SEP / OCT 2018

NEWS TAKE ADVANTAGE OF KUMON’S TWO-WEEK FREE TRIAL

NEW VENUE FOR SIUD Much loved Edinburgh urban dance company, Step It Up Dance, is excited to announce their new hub of classes at North Merchiston Club in Polwarth. A range of great fun, active, progressive classes will run on Friday afternoons for children aged 18 months – 11 years.

EXCLUSIVE OFFER:

At your local Kumon Edinburgh, Morningside Study Centre their aim is to help children of any ability to shine. They believe this opportunity to grow on both an academic and a personal level should be available to all children. That is why, between 1 September and 31 October, they are offering a two-week Free Trial to all new students. The Kumon Edinburgh, Morningside Study Centre is located at Morningside Parish Church, 2 Cluny Gardens, with classes running on Mondays and Thursdays 3.30pm to 5.30pm. To take part in the free trial, contact Christine Johnston on 0131 466 9235 or email edinburghmorningside@ kumoncentre.co.uk

MADE readers can enjoy a FREE two-week trial of any of the new North Merchiston classes. Just go to stepitupdance.co.uk, choose your preferred class and enter discount code VCO910

LEGO ICONIC STATIONERY Fans of the brick can now get their kicks with funky new LEGO Iconic stationery collection. Incorporating Lego Minifigure imagery and emojistyle design elements, this high quality stationery range adds a fun touch to study time or the perfect gift for LEGO fans. The range includes an Invisible Writer Set, Pencils and Erasers.

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NEWS NEW, PURPOSE BUILT, DANCE STUDIOS IN CORSTORPHINE FOR EDA

THE TREASURE TROVE, CASTLE ST The aim of this unique charity is to help those in need gain an independent livelihood, using traditional skills such as sewing and knitting; with the shop’s profits going to the talented individuals whose handiwork fills the windows and shelves. The offering extends to woodwork, baking, greetings cards, and all kinds of weird and wonderful soft toys. There are beautifully hand-smocked children’s dresses, Fair Isle knits and the finest wool baby shawls. The shop also encourages talented artisans to produce bespoke work. Anyone who thinks they have the skills to help pay the bills and wishes to apply for membership and become a “maker”, is invited to complete an application form found at www.selfaidsociety.co.uk.

Edinburgh Dance Academy, recently voted highest ranked dance school in the UK and Ireland, offers classes and exams in RAD Ballet, and classes in Commercial, Pre-School Dance, Jazz, Modern, Tap, Acro, Turns and Limbering, Progressing Ballet Technique, Contemporary, Competition and much more. Including performing each year at the King’s Panto! EDA recently represented Scotland in the Dance World Cup in Spain and proudly brought home a World Championship medal. They pride themselves on high standards but the most important thing is that all pupils are cared for, nurtured and have fun! To celebrate the new studio, they are offering a term of tuition, absolutely FREE to all new and existing students. Ts&Cs apply.

LEAKPROOF WATER BOTTLES Ion8 looks after the whole family, with their ultimate water bottles offering effortless hydration. The flip top springs open with a single push, while the added lid lock clicks reassuringly into place. The pouring spout remains under a hard shell keeping your bottle clean, fresh and hygienic. Available to buy from Leakproof.co.uk for £14.99

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NEWS SEASIDE FUN AT THE SCOTTISH SEABIRD CENTRE Whatever the weather, the Scottish Seabird Centre, just 35 minutes from Edinburgh is the ideal family escape this autumn. October marks the start of seal season at the Centre. You can zoom in on super cute seal pups with interactive live cameras, immerse yourself in our 3D films, or join in with some of the many child-friendly activities in the Discovery Centre. Then, sit down, relax and enjoy the views from our brilliant Seabird café, have a browse around the giftshop and if the weathers nice you have miles of beautiful beaches just outside the front door. www.seabird.org.

£500 CASH GRANT FOR NEW PARENTS

September is the baby boom month of the year, with the most popular birthdate confirmed to fall on the 26th. And if you’re a new (or soon to be) parent, your weekly shop is likely to start looking rather different; swapping wine for wet wipes and industrial sized packs of nappies taking up space in the trolley. Despite the likely influx of well-meaning hand me downs, the number of up-front costs facing new parents is difficult to avoid. Sure Start Maternity Grants are a one-off payment of £500 to help towards the costs of having a child, and are available to people on certain income-related benefits expecting their first child or for those expecting a multiple birth and have children already. Clear guidelines at www.gov.uk/sure-start-maternity-grant

WALT DISNEY WORLD’S TOY STORY LAND Walt Disney World’s Toy Story Land The most rootin’ tootin’ land in Disney’s Hollywood Studios, at Walt Disney World – Toy Story Land – is now open; after an epic 3 years in development. Inspired by the hit trilogy and created by the film’s protagonist, Andy, guests are invited to become honorary toys, feel tiny and play big. This is one of the most delightful experiences ever offered by Walt Disney World – allowing guests to hang out with their favourite toys, visit Andy’s playground, feel the size of a toy, meet their favourite Toy Story characters, rollercoaster with all the family and ride in one of 22 toy rocket ships with the Aliens and ‘The Claw’.

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NEW PROGRAMME OF EVENTS AT WISHING TREE Wishing Tree Play Cafe in Musselburgh has always provided a ‘home from home’ environment, where under 7s can play in the woodland themed café, and parents can enjoy freshly ground coffee. It was also a hub for weekly dance and music classes; but this autumn sees a huge array of new classes and courses starting too; Baby Massage, GroovaRoo, Mindfulness and Yoga for parents, the Sensory Sessions, Physi-ball, Baby Ballet and regulars, Step it Up Dance and Bambino Beats. As well as that, there’ll be pop-up workshops about nutrition, peadiatric first aid, positive parenting and sleep advice for you and baby. The Wishing Tree will also start hosting bootcamps and co- working space for mums in business, in partnership with Orlaith Brogan. Keep up-to-date with this extensive programme via their Facebook page. made SEP / OCT 2018

Family hairdressers in Morningside, Kids’ Stop, has been expertly cutting hair for 16 years. They cater for everyone but specialise in children’s haircuts. Their salon is equipped with TVs and special chairs, with a range of different films to choose from or books for children to hold. First haircuts receive a special certificate, and all kids can choose a treat when they’re done! Kids’ Stop also has a pop-up shop with loads of fantastic products from local businesses, including Yummikeys, Crafty Bee Design, Kinnon Kraftz, My Happy Journal, Katy Lou Designs and Wee Susie Stitches. To win a £30 voucher to spend on haircuts in Kids’ Stop, just answer this question.

Where in Edinburgh is Kids’ Stop based? For more information and special offers follow them on Facebook. T&Cs. The winner will be picked at random by MADE magazine on 19 Oct. 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.

WAW NTE D Y URE SA N ASS G CL SS N I N ead MOR C LilehA Fairm 019 starts

Jan 2

Stagecoach Edinburgh is enrolling in classes near you

Our fun and engaging weekly classes are for 4 - 18 year olds. Children are given both structure and freedom as they learn how to sing, dance and act. Days: Thursday to Sunday Venues: various locations across Edinburgh including Stockbridge, Leith, Grassmarket, Sighthill and Fairmilehead

stagecoach.co.uk/edinburgh

0131 610 0636

Stagecoach Performing Arts Schools are operated under franchise and are independently owned by their Principals. Stagecoach is a registered trademark of Stagecoach Theatre Arts Ltd.

BOOK NOW

SINGING DANCING ACTING

WELCOME! Welcome to Stagecoach. We provide quality training in the performing arts. We nurture and develop young potential, stretching imaginations and building confidence.

Early Stages

(Ages 4-6)

Children aged from four to six begin their Stagecoach journey in our Early Stages classes. The 90-minute classes are split into three sections: 30 minutes for singing, 30 minutes for dancing, and 30 minutes for acting. Classes run during term time.

Main Stages (Ages 6-18) Children from six to 18 are split by age into small groups for our weekly Main Stages classes. Classes are held in term time and last for three hours: one hour for singing, one hour for dancing and one hour for acting.

Help your child to grow in confidence, be active and stretch their imagination

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Swim with the most highly qualified, enthusiastic and passionate teachers. Our progressive and baby-led programme, will give your little one the best start to their swimming journey. contact 07964 840 049

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Adventures with worms

A N D O T H E R C R E E P Y C R AW L I E S

©SAMANTHA’S STUDIO - STOCK.ADOBE.COM

Written by Claire Daly

y daughter likes to hold wriggling worms in her bare hands. I writhe inside, struggling with my own biophobia, a term to describe a fear of the outdoors, the biological, the natural. Soil, bugs, spiders, all that. When I do the weeding it is quite useful to have Rose on worm-patrol. For ages we neglected our front garden because we don’t have a gate on it, but she is so entranced by the earth that she has never once strayed. She is learning patience,

made SEP / OCT 2018

watching for worms to crawl out of holes in the ground, until, unsuspecting, they are wrenched from their earthy home and played with. “Ooh, little baby worm,” Rose coos. “What’s it doing?” she asks as it heaves to and fro, as much as a baby worm can heave, in the grip of two toddler fingers. It might be trying to escape, I say, maybe it wants some earth, so she puts some earth in her hands too. The worm is released from her grasp.

Next we see a slater. Now maybe we shouldn’t touch him, I hear myself saying, but we’ll pop him in the bowl. We now have a bowl for capturing small creatures and examining them. The first time we did this Rose wanted to bring the bowl inside so she could watch worms while eating her lunch. I had a hard time trying to explain why this wasn’t a good idea while at the same time trying to embrace her newfound love of worms. On holiday in Stroud, Rose rescued a worm stranded on the play equipment in the park. “She’s got a worm!” a horrified mother shrieked to me. Secretly proud, I said, “oh well done for being so careful”. “She plays with worms in our garden,” I tried to explain, realising how weird it sounded only when I said it out loud, even to the country folk of Stroud. Then, at a party later, I triumphantly told the story of Rose saving the worm and putting him on the grass to some impressed neighbours of my aunt. “We’re trying to encourage her not to be afraid of mud and

bugs,” I explained. Then, to my horror, when we were all about to sit down to dinner outside on a beautiful summer’s evening, Rose refused to sit down at the table for fear of the spider webs under the table. Our earthy boasting had backfired all too quickly. On our decking at home, Rose always tries to wipe away the cobwebs from our deck chairs with the hose, which, six months after moving in, we still haven’t worked out how to connect to the tap. I once went round the deck cleaning off the cobwebs, after winter was finally over. Now she wants to get rid of all cobwebs. I am trying hard not to pass on my fear of spiders. When I was 10 my dad took me out to our spider-infested garage in rural Inverness-shire to try to cure my arachnophobia. He made me pull up my sleeve and put a spider in the crook of my elbow and let it crawl up to my wrist. It was a stomach churning moment and one that has scarred me for life. Sometimes parents’ plans to ‘cure’ us of our fears can backfire.

THE EARLY YEARS ARE THE MOST IMPORTANT TO LEARN ABOUT NATURE

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Children grow up with a natural curiosity for the natural world but it is us as parents, and lack of contact with the outdoors, that can put the fear into them. Biophobia is a fear of the natural world and it is an increasing problem all over the world for children growing up in cities. In Hong Kong, it was reported that children are afraid of trees. A teacher took her class of Hackney Londoners on a school field trip and reported that the kids were afraid of cowpats. It may sound funny but biophobia is a deadly serious problem. If a generation of children grow up afraid of nature and ecological issues, the effects on the environment could be devastating and far reaching. “If they are not going to connect with the earth as children, they never will. The early years are the most important to learn about nature,” said Paul Melsom, a horticulturalist who runs a programme with children in Hong Kong. Positive experience with nature early on leads to responsible environmental behaviour in later life. Conservation ecologists at the University of Illinois in America have also documented a disturbing trend, what they called “a fundamental cultural shift away from nature” and a “prejudice against nature.” The BBC recently reported that Dr Sean Brady’s team at Rockefeller University in New York had ‘unearthed’ new antibiotics found in soil samples, and contact with earth has many advantages. Immersing your hands in soil without gloves produces serotonin in the brain. Biophobia in children presents itself as anxiety and fear of any natural element, from soil to wind. Psychologists have noted that kids suffering from biophobia also have higher rates of general anxiety disorder and depression. What can we as parents do to combat this fear? There are a number of things we can do. Encouraging close contact with animals; showing our children that we feel enjoyment and pleasure in nature by going there together as a family; building a mud kitchen in your garden; there are even Forest schools. It shouldn’t be too tricky to try these things with young children because they have an innate

biological tendency to bond with the natural world, called biophilia. It is only the frequency of contact and adults’ cultural behaviour towards nature that are determining factors. Developing empathy towards the natural environment is the first step, including with animals. Studies on the dreams of children younger than six reveal that as many as 90 percent are about animals. Aldo Leopold the American conservationist advocated giving children daily ‘green exercise’. In the 1930s he took his whole family out to his shack by the Wisconsin River. He observed that they would always come home with a spring in their step and recent evidence supports this: ‘green exercise’ improves mental well-being, selfesteem, problem solving skills, cooperation, selfdiscipline and reduces aggression. A mud kitchen is the perfect outdoor play equipment to combat biophobia. My neighbour Emma has built her own from found materials and painted it. It is a thing of beauty; filled with mud, shells, real kitchen equipment, and bowls for making mud pies, wormcakes and wriggly cookies. “Mud kitchens are a great way for children to express their creativity, develop sensory and mathematical skills and provides so many opportunities to engage and learn new language. The world we live in today is very clean and sanitized which is contributing to an increase in childhood allergies. Exposing children to mud and dirt builds their immune system so it is actually good for them too,” commented Emma Grover, who is an early years practitioner. We are just embarking on our own mud kitchen because I realise that although Rose sometimes helps out in the front garden, Mummy is in charge of the planting and she needs her own muddy space to be creative and enjoy it to the full. I won’t mind the mess unless she tries to take her muddy cakes into my kitchen. We as parents must combat our own fears to give children the freedom to love and explore nature. It’s good for them and it will benefit the environment in the long term. n

PSYCHOLOGISTS HAVE NOTED THAT KIDS SUFFERING FROM BIOPHOBIA ALSO HAVE HIGHER RATES OF GENERAL ANXIETY DISORDER AND DEPRESSION

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Emma Groverâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s mud garden benefits Developing mathematical skills: sorting, weighing, measuring, counting, sorting, categorising materials, problem solving. Developing sensory awareness: feeling of wet/dry mud, smell, difference of sound of wet/dry mud, experimenting with different textures. Learning new language: for example descriptive language - thick oozy mud, dusty, wet/dry, lumpy, bumpy. Role play: taking on different roles in the kitchen, baker, customer, chef. Imaginative play: using their imagination to create scenarios or make things. Developing social skills: sharing resources, turn taking, cooperating, negotiating, making decisions, working together with their peers. Developing an awareness and appreciation for nature and learning about the world around them. Developing physical skills: hand-eye coordination, fine motor skills, gross motor skills. Playing outside promotes healthy emotional wellbeing. Dirt contains mycobacterium vaccae which stimulates and increases levels of serotonin in the brain which contributes to a happy healthy mood. Things you can add to a mud kitchen to extend play opportunities: pots, pans, different sizes utensils, herbs such as mint, rosemary or sage (to stimulate the senses) water, sand, bottle tops, bottles, shells, sticks, twigs, leaves, petals, flowers, spray bottles, stones...

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MADE reviews the EUFY RoboVac

have always wanted a RoboVac. I’ve seen them on tv, I’ve read about them in magazines and I needed one in my life. I had one on my perpetual wish-list, so when the opportunity arose to trial the Eufy 11S, I jumped up and down like a kid at Christmas. When little Dusty arrived (yes, we named it, don’t judge us) we set straight to work to get him up and running. Easy peasy. Batteries in the remote, plug in the charging unit, set Dusty in the unit and wait for a bit. As soon as he was ready we put him to work. He trundled around the kitchen like a little robotic dog and the kids squealed with delight; he picked up the breakfast crumbs as I loaded the dishwasher and I squealed with delight. He nosied off into the living room, then the hallway, and then the playroom; the boys

excitedly running and jumping after him. He threatened to eat their Lego so they hurriedly picked it all up and put it in the correct box. That was truly a first!

It was day one and I was loving having Dusty around. He’s like a little pet. When he gets ‘tired’ and needs ‘a nap’, he goes back to his charging unit by himself! What a good boy! He has all sorts of sensors, he doesn’t fall down stairs, he can work in spirals or on demand if you want him to, he can do corners, he can work on a timer, he in slim enough to go under lots of our units and sofas and chairs and he keeps our floors spotlessly clean! I was surprised how much he picks up. He is fab. I can now do the school run while he un-crumbs my kitchen floor, so on my return I can get straight to work instead of wasting time. I knew I needed him. n

Available to buy from Amazon.

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PINK/RED CLUTCH, £32, Oliver Bonas

BLUE STUDDED PURSE, £14.99, TK Maxx

GREEN MINI TOTE, £45, House of Fraser

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made SEP / OCT 2018

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1849_WB-Scotland East Advert 69mm101mm.indd 1

WHEN? WHERE?

27/09/2016 11:20

SATURDAY 13TH OCTOBER 2018, 10AM – 3PM ST ANDREW’S & ST GEORGE’S WEST CHURCH, 13 GEORGE STREET, EDINBURGH EH2 3PA

Beautifully hand-made crafts, toys and children’s clothes. Traditional smocking, baby knits, home produce and craft demonstrations. Meet for coffee or lunch in The Undercroft Cafe.

ALL WELCOME

FREE ENTRY

TIC

©MARIA SBYTOVA

THE BIG SCREEN FOR LIT TLE PEOPLE BY

Kyla Donaldson

In a previous life I thought I would spend maternity leave writing a book and learning about classical music. I realise now I was not just blissfully ignorant, I was blindly bumping into floaty matter in a galaxy far, far away. It has been seven months and I haven’t yet held a book the right way up. However, I’m still an undiscriminating cinephile with a compulsion to catch new film releases. All hail, then, the mighty baby screening. Baby-friendly screenings are offered to enable parents and carers to go to the cinema with their babies. The volume is softer, the lights brighter and facilities available for buggy parking and nappy changing. These are exclusively for customers with children under 12 months, which means no regular cinema goers will be there to disturb or be disturbed.

made SEP / OCT 2018

For toddlers and older children, there are other kid-friendly options. Unlike baby screenings, films here are aimed solely at children. Great news for when you want to catch up on your Pixar movies. The trouble with these screen-shaped lifelines is that information is thin on the web, so here is a guide around Auld Reekie by a new (cine)maw…

FILMHOUSE, LOTHIAN ROAD CLUB: For Crying Out Loud TIME: Mondays at 11am PRICE: £4.50 for all SEATING: Unallocated BABY CHANGING FACILITIES: 2 Filmhouse is an arthouse cinema which is host to the Edinburgh International Film Festival. Its varied programme embraces the award winners and the wonderfully weird, and this variety extends, sometimes brazenly, to its baby screenings. I have seen holocaust films, films whose every frame is an oil painting and 1960s misogynistic French film noir. So, too, has my baby. Baby screenings are shown in Screen 1 which is upstairs on the first floor. Prams are left downstairs in the foyer where the box office is situated although car seats and carrycots can be taken up into the screen. The seats are comfortable with padded arms rests for superior breastfeeding. The café is a boon to this cinema with a film-focused and spacious setting, good coffee and beautifully proportioned nachos. CLUB: TIME: PRICE:

Filmhouse Juniors Sundays at 11am, £4.50 for all (£5.50 for 3D)

C AMEO, HOME S TREET CLUB: The Big Scream TIME: Thursdays at 10.30am PRICE: Full price £8.20, members £6.20, price includes cup of tea or coffee SEATING: Unallocated BABY CHANGING FACILITIES: 1 The Cameo shows a variety of mainstream and arthouse films. Screen 1, which normally hosts the baby screenings, has the unique charm of one of the oldest theatres in Scotland combined with the luxury of recently refurbished reclining seats. The seats are exquisite and probably the best of the bunch for breastfeeding. Buggies

can be taken into the screen and parked at the side. The free tea or coffee on entry is a nice touch and the programming benefits from being part of a chain and therefore able to secure highly anticipated new releases like Star Wars, as well as, say, the latest Studio Ghibli. It is worth checking each week and not turning up blind as, if there are no 12 certificates on release that week, the cinema will usually skip rather than duplicate a screening. CLUB: TIME: PRICE:

Cameo Toddler Time Mondays at 11am £3 for toddler (pre-school only), accompanying adult free

ODEON , LOTHIAN ROAD CLUB: Odeon Newbies TIME: Tuesday morning, usually between 10am and 11.30am PRICE: Full price £9.50, concession £8 SEATING: Unallocated BABY CHANGING FACILITIES: 1 The first time I attended this screening I received the warmest welcome of them all. I was late and the only customer to turn up and considering some poor projectionist had to then turn the thing on, they couldn’t have been more obliging. The particularly friendly usher lady even gave me a cup of tea and one of her own biscuits. A Gold biscuit to boot. Being alone in that screen meant I felt free to ask them to turn the lights up and sound down. Logan Lucky is a pleasing riot and Daniel Craig kept threatening to wake the baby, who I couldn’t really see. This can be trickier in busier screenings but the lack of perceptible difference in sound and light between their normal and baby screenings seems to be an Odeon-wide issue. After the film, Particularly Friendly Usher Lady gave a selling summary of the following week’s film and sealed my custom indefinitely. Upstairs there is the Italian restaurant Croma which does a cheap and cheerful pizza lunch complete with high chairs. The concession stand is extortionate.

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ODEON , FORT KINNAIRD CLUB: Odeon Newbies TIME: Tuesday and/or Thursday mornings, usually between 10am and 11.30am PRICE: Full price £9.50, concession £8 SEATING: Allocated BABY CHANGING FACILITIES: 1 This seems a more popular venue than Lothian Road so one baby changing facility can feel inadequate. It would halve the post screening queues if an additional changing unit were put in the ladies. It is a large and comfortable cinema with impressively sized screens and there is a Costa inside the building, as well as just about every other imaginable chain café outside its walls in the wider Fort Kinnaird. The joy of this cinema is chatting and cooing with senior customers whose Silver Surfer screenings take place afterwards. The real danger is its proximity to other shops including Mamas & Papas, Next and the best Fat Face in the city. Screenings here are more regular than at Lothian Road where weeks can be missed, presumably due to programming issues. For each, it is necessary to keep on top of the clunky Odeon Newbies website by selecting the preferred cinema and hoping for the best. CLUB: TIME: PRICE:

Odeon Kids Saturdays and Sundays at 10am £3.25 for all

ODEON LUXE, WES TER HAILES CLUB: Odeon Newbies TIME: Tuesdays or Wednesdays between 10am and 11.30am PRICE: Full price £7, concession £6 SEATING: Allocated BABY CHANGING FACILITIES: 1 By far the most indulgent baby screening experience to date, it’s as if the makeover of this venue into one of Odeon’s few ‘Luxe’ theatres

made SEP / OCT 2018

was done with mums in mind. The electric reclining seats are dreamy and provide a well cushioned lap alternative for older babies. There is space to truly spread out and retractable table trays to tap, drum or put your coffee on (there’s a Costa in the foyer). There is one baby changing unit which has its own room separate to the disabled toilets. The impossibly lovely usher pushed my buggy, carried my coffee and even held my baby, thanking me for the privilege. She seemed personally and genuinely delighted to look after the four mums there. Being accustomed to the brisk irritation that clunky buggies can encounter in the city centre, this reception and customer service felt extraordinary. My enthusiasm to add this cinema to the baby screening repertoire turned out to be well-founded and expectations surpassed. But it took effort. Screenings are intermittent and programming information almost impossible to verify, with staff both on-site and on their centralised online chat box equally bewildered. It is the Aurora Borealis of baby screenings; spectacular, but you have to be lucky to catch the show. If they can secure and promote a regular slot it could be the best in town. CLUB: TIME: PRICE:

Odeon Kids Saturdays and Sundays at 10am £4.25 for all

CINEWORLD, FOUNTAINPARK CLUB: Cinebabies TIME: Mondays at 10am PRICE: Full price £9, concession £7 SEATING: Allocated BABY CHANGING FACILITIES: 1 This cinema feels still very much in the city centre but also offers free validated multistorey parking. The films shown are consistently mainstream while also pleasingly varied, showcasing spectacular animation and general silliness alongside the more garden-variety dramas. The screens change but buggies are always permitted inside.

THE FACTS: Under cinema licensing administered by Edinburgh Council, screenings for babies can only show certificate U, PG and 12A films as set by the British Board of Film Classification.

Following a complaint by a customer who missed the not-exactly-small print about Cinebabies screenings and was politely denied entry on account of being baby-free, these screenings were removed from Cineworld’s normal daily website listing. Instead, email addresses were collected by resiliently enthusiastic staff at the end of that controversial screening, and information is now sent out weekly. While it’s surprisingly exciting to receive an email promoting the following week’s film, it is a pity that it informs only those already in the know. The email distribution list is worth getting on as, when presented between 8am and 10am, a free hot drink is given on the purchase of any food item at the onsite Starbucks. CLUB: TIME: PRICE:

Cineworld Movies for Juniors Saturdays and Sundays at 10am or 10.10am £3.20 for all

customer to turn up and the film has not always screened. It was for lack of interest that the Dominion stopped its baby screenings, which with its sumptuous sofas, feels like a loss to more than merely Morningside mums. Armed with a healthy baby, on leave from a job which will have me back, and with enough to spend on a mid-week leisure activity, I am so glad I have access to this cinematic sanctuary. Before even contemplating motherhood, I found going to the cinema during the daytime one of life’s finest luxuries. Now I get to do it every week while cuddling, feeding and bouncing a baby. It is bliss. VUE OMNI CENTRE MINI MORNINGS Saturdays and Sundays at 10am, £3.24 for all. VUE OCEAN TERMINAL MINI MORNINGS Saturdays and Sundays at 10am, £3.24 for all.

Whichever screening you attend, space is never an issue. Audiences are consistently sparse; on more than one occasion I have been the only

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The Art Friends of St Columba’s Hospice 32nd Annual Art Exhibition 19 - 21 October 2018

Free admission and parking Friday 19 October 2pm – 8pm Informal drinks reception 6pm - 8pm Saturday 20 October 10am – 4pm Sunday 21 October 11am – 3pm The Edinburgh Academy 43 Henderson Row Stockbridge Edinburgh, EH3 5BL

Kindly supported by

www.stcolumbashospice.org.uk St Columba’s Hospice Ltd (Registered in Scotland No. 48700) Charity No. SC003634

Extract from “After the Rain” by David Hay

T HE C WORD Dare I say it? Christmas! OMG can you believe it is nearly here? WRITTEN BY EDINBURGH-BASED PHOTOGRAPHER DIANA BAKER

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, floor 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 to 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 Garden Centre photo that everyone else has. That is why 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 have the “REAL” Santa, loads of goodies, and a colouring-in competition, all guaranteed to make 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 the 16th, 17th and 18th of November and remember how fun Christmas really is. n

£35 per session with a max of 3 kids per session. Prints and Christmas gift package options are additional, and will be truly treasured by all Grandparents. Session times are available on our website now. www.dianabakerphotography.com/shop Or call to book on: 07546 987 017 Book now to avoid disappointment

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Christmas Mini Photography Sessions 16th, 17th and 18th of November ONLY, ÂŁ35 per session, max of 3 kids per session. To book visit www.dianabakerphotography.com/shop made SEP / OCT 2018 Phone: 07546 987017 33

Dates for your diary Monday

Tuesday

Wednesday Thursday

Puzzle in the Gardens @ Princes St Gardens. An art installation by Anne Gilchrist celebrating the variety and character of this lovely collection of trees. Runs until Sept 15th.

PUZZLE IN THE GARDENS @PRINCES ST GARDENS RUNS UNTIL SEPT 15

10am-11.30am Moonbeam Therapies: Baby Massage and First Aid @ Wishing Tree Play Café in Musselburgh.

5 Heroes of Flight family trail @ National Museum of Flight. Pick up the self-guided family trail on arrival and discover the museum and historic airfield anew. Until 7 Sept.

11 10am & 11.30am (40mins) Tiny Tales: Into the Garden @ Storytelling Centre. Meet Mary the contrary gardener, and others. Event will be held outside, weather dependent. For ages 2-5 yrs, £5 per child.

Song Circle @ Skylark Café, Stockbridge. A beautiful singing group for babies and pre-schoolers, run by Scottish folksinger, Gill Bowman. Runs Mon - Wed weekly.

MADE readers can enjoy a FREE two-week trial of Step It Up Dance classes at North Merchiston. Go to stepitupdance.co.uk and enter discount code VCO910

12 Rip It Up – The Story of Scottish Pop @ National Museum of Scotland. Discover the story of Scottish pop music from the 1950s to the present day. Runs until 25 Nov. 19

SONG CIRCLE @SKYLARK CAFÉ RUNS MON-WED

6 10.30am & 11.30am Bambino Beats are at Wishing Tree Play Café on Thursdays. Check Facebook/website for more info. 13

RIP IT UP @NATIONAL MUSEUM OF SCOTLAND RUNS UNTIL NOV 25

LITTLE BABY BUM @KINGS THEATRE RUNS SEP 21-23

Take advantage of Kumon’s two-week FREE trial before the end of Oct. Email Christine edinburghmorningside@ kumoncentre.co.uk to book.

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september 2018 Spotlight on... Friday Saturday Sunday

1 10am - 12pm Dads Rock Family Fun Day and AGM @ Whale Arts. Arts & crafts, dancing, food, face-painting, music. FREE DADS ROCK FAMILY FUN DAY @WHALE ARTS SEPT 1

7 8 Art & Craft Collective, Causewayside is one year old! Local MP, Ian Murray will say a few words and cut the cake. MADE readers are welcome to join the party and celebrate with Prosecco.

11am - 4pm Art in the Park @ Spylaw Park, Colinton. Art & craft stalls, performances, food, books, tombolas and alpacas. If weather inclement the fair will run on Sept 9th.

Loads of fun activities @ Dalkeith Country Park 15 - 17 Sept. Build your own den using natural materials, create buildings from spaghetti and marshmallows, decorate pebbles and make and fly a kite.

21 22 Little Baby Bum 10am - 2.30pm @ King’s Theatre. Superhero Show & Disco Join Mia, Jacus, Twinkle @ Conifox. See all your favourite and their Nursery Rhyme Superheroes showing off their Friends at the world martial arts and dancing skills. premiere of a brand new live Dress up and join in Check show. Runs Sept 21 - 23. Facebook for more info. 28 29 12pm - 6pm Canteen Street Food Festival Closing Party @ Archerfield Walled Garden. Family-Friendly carnival atmosphere!

made SEP / OCT 2018

It’s in the Bag Storytellers Sept 8th Scottish Storytelling Centre

10am (45 mins) Teddy Bears Picnic (for ages 0-2)

It’s in the Bag @ Scottish Storytelling Centre. Award-winning storytelling using puppetry, music and games. See spotlight for more info…

14 15

FUN ACTIVITIES @DALKEITH COUNTRY PARK SEPT 15-17

ART IN THE PARK @SPYLAW PARK, COLINTON SEPT 2

16 The Great Duck Race and Family Funday @ Water of Leith Visitor Centre. Join this amazing spectacle and sponsor a duck for £2 to win some great prize. Fun starts at 2pm, races from 3pm. 23

SUPERHERO SHOW & DISCO @CONIFOX SEPT 22

30 Doors Open Days in Edinburgh & East Lothian. Explore fascinating buildings for FREE! www.doorsopendays.org.uk On Sept 29 & 30th

Bring your favourite teddy and journey into the woods for a Teddy Bears’ Picnic. A wonderful interactive session for little ones, with puppets, props and well-known nursery rhymes.

11.15am (45mins) Superheroes (3-6yrs) Sam & Rosie are Superheroes in a magical kingdom, where the animals can speak, there’s a good fairy and everyone lives happily… until Snake-boy spoils their fun. An interactive story with puppets, props, songs and adventure.

Dates for your diary Monday

Tuesday

Wednesday Thursday 3

October is seal season @ Seabird Centre, North Berwick. Zoom in on super cute pups with interactive cameras

SEAL SEASON @SEABIRD CENTRE

1.15pm -2.30pm GroovaRoo: Mum and Baby in Sling/Carrier Dance Class @ Wishing Tree Play Café in Musselburgh.

OPEN MORNING @EDINBURGH STEINER OCT 5

Enter Kids’ Stop’s competition before 19 Oct to win a £30 voucher for haircuts! See page 13 for details. BIG BIG GIN FESTIVAL @EDINBURGH CORN EXCHANGE OCT 12-13

15 9.30am - 4.40pm Portraits at the Palace @ Palace of Holyroodhouse. During half term explore the portraits on display and learn how to decode them. Create your own to take home. 22

11am - 12.30pm, Halloween Wand Making Workshop @ Lauriston Castle. Create your own magic wand using spooky, glittering materials. For age 5+, £5 per person.

PORTRAITS AT THE PALACE @PALACE OF HOLYROODHOUSE OCT 15

Storytelling Festival runs from 19th - 31st. See www.tracscotland.org for events and more info. STORYTELLING FESTIVAL OCT 19-31

Biggar Little Festival runs 18-28 Oct. A family-friendly festival filled with workshops, exhibitions, children’s events, performances, craft and food.

29 30 31

TORCH LIGHT MAZE NIGHTS @CAIRNIE FRUIT FARM OCT 26,27,30,31

7pm - 9.30pm Torch Light Maze Nights @ Cairnie Fruit Farm. Spooky fun for ages 8+. Book online www.cairniefruitfarm.co.uk. Also running on 26, 27 & 31 Oct.

It’s Halloween! For ideas and events see pages 38 - 41.

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october 2018 Spotlight on... Friday Saturday Sunday 5 6

9am - 11.30am Open Morning @ Edinburgh Steiner School. Book via edinburghsteinerschool.org.uk

Open Day @ Fettes College from 1.30pm. It’s Grandparents Day! Grandparents go FREE to Conifox!

12 13 Big Big Gin Festival @ Edinburgh Corn Exchange with over 100 gins to choose from. On 13th too.

19 20

21 10am - 4pm Sunday Funday @ The Yard. Open to the public every Sunday, everyone can come along to get messy and have fun! £6 per child for two hours. theyardscotland.org.uk

CAIRNIE PUMPKIN FESTIVAL @CAIRNIE FRUIT FARM OCT 27-28

Cairnie Pumpkin Festival @ Cairnie Fruit Farm. Pumpkin picking and carving, apple dunking, hot apple cider, spooky face painting, kids fancy dress. On 28 Oct too. cairniefruitfarm.co.uk

Cupar, Fife This is definitely the place to be at Halloween, with so many fun and spooky things going on!

The Art Friends of St Columba’s Hospice Exhibition @ The Edinburgh Academy, Stockbridge. The very best of Scottish talent. Runs 19-21 Oct. FREE admission and parking.

26 27

cairniefruitfarm.co.uk

10.30am - 3pm Pop-Up Craft Fair @ St Andrew’s & St George’s Church, George St. Beautifully hand-made crafts, toys, and much more. Everyone welcome. FREE

THE ART FRIENDS OF ST COLUMBA’S HOSPICE EXHIBITION OCT 19-20

Cairnie Fruit Farm & Mega Mega

28 8.30pm Sam Avery: The Learned Parent @ The Stand. Stand-up comedian, blogger and bestselling author shares the lows, highs and hilarious in-betweens of his experiences of first-time parenthood.

As well as all the normal fun stuff at Cairnies (go-karts, trampolines, bouncing pillow, flying fox etc) they have a scary Halloween Torchlight Maze, where you enter a labyrinth of paths with only your torch light to guide you; as well as the super-popular pumpkin festival - the biggest in Scotland! Kids can also enjoy apple-dunking, a kids’ creepy menu, facepainting, fancy dress competitions, pumpkins and loads more! © DESIGNED BY FREEPIK.COM

9.30am - 12.30pm Open Morning @ George Watson’s College. www.gwc.org.uk

Visit www. cairniefruitfarm.co.uk for more info. SAM AVERY: THE LEARNED PARENT @THE STAND OCT 28

made SEP / OCT 2018

L L A O H WE E K A

Spooktacular Halloween Torchlight Maze Cairnies Fruit Farm and Mega Maze 26, 27, 30, 31 October, 7pm - 9:30pm

Dare you enter a large maze with a labyrinth of paths? As darkness falls you will only have your torch for light. Watch out for surprises that lurk in the shadows.... An evening of fun but recommended for 8+ as it is really quite scary! Book quickly to avoid disappointment, tickets for this go fast! Bring your own torch. Tickets ÂŁ8.50 and bookable via cairniefruitfarm.co.uk

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Broomstick Ride Usher Hall 28 Oct, 3pm

Join Children’s Classic Concerts and the RSNO for a hair-raising flying adventure this Halloween. Grab your Nimbus 2000 (or your Firebolt if you upgraded) and soar to new heights meeting Witches, Wizards and Valkyries along the way! Featuring a very special performance of ‘We Can Fly’ by young pupils with additional support needs.

Halloween Wand making Workshop Lauriston Castle 18 Oct, 11am - 12.30pm

Create your own unique magic wand, using a huge assortment of spooky, glittering materials. After it’s made, young witches and wizards will be ready to cast spells and collect bags of sweets on Halloween night! Age 5+. From £7 per ticket

SKELETON CRAFT £2, Flying Tiger

The Spooky Castle Lauriston Castle 28 Oct, 10am - 1pm

made SEP / OCT 2018

LIGHT UP CUP WITH STRAW £4, Flying Tiger

Spend a morning exploring this spooktacular castle and the creepy old woods, searching for clues with ghouls and making terrifying Halloween treats in the historical kitchen. Remember to come in full fancy dress! From £8.14 per ticket

Steam ’n’ Scream Weekend Bo’ness & Kinneil Railway

Halloween fun on the train. Decorated coaches, Halloween treats, a fancy dress competition and other spooky fun. Come in fancy dress or else! LED PUMPKIN LANTERN £2, Flying Tiger

Spooky Happenings Almond Valley Heritage Centre 6 - 31 October

HANGING LANTERN £2, Flying Tiger

As the nights get darker, mysterious creatures emerge from the dark corners of the old farm. Find your way through a world of magic and shadows with mysteries to solve, games to play, and some scary surprises around every corner.

Friday Fright Night Almond Valley Heritage Centre 26 October, 6pm - 9pm

A little extra horror once the sun goes down, with a scary surprise around every corner, ghost trains to nowhere, and trailer rides circuiting the graveyard. Come dressed to kill. Good family fun, but perhaps not suitable for very young children or adults of a nervous disposition.

TRICK OR TREAT BUCKETS £2, Flying Tiger

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Control the cameras and zoom in on the super-cute seals. Seal season from October. Only 30 mins from Edinburgh.

Singing with Babies and Toddlers in Skylark Cafe Booking Essential text or email for info 07973 493 933 songcircle.gill@gmail.com

www.seabird.org Image © Maggie Sheddan / Scottish Charity no SC025837

Skylark Cafe, 40 Hamilton Place EdinburghSkylark

DISCOVERY CENTRE · BOAT TRIPS · CAFÉ · GIFT SHOP

P L AY CA FE Fun. Food. Family. Friends.

Celebrate with TurtleDove this Autumn Quiz Night & Hot Buﬀet Friday 5th October, 7pm - 11pm £10 Halloween Party - Sunday 28th October 12pm - 2pm / 3pm - 5pm £10 Ladies Night - Friday 9th November 7pm - 11pm £15.00 Christmas Party - Sunday 16th December 3pm - 5pm £10.00

All-n U S ew clinic sleep The S with Frida leep Lady ys 10 .30am

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

www.turtledoveplaycafe.co.uk

The Joys of Halloween T

imes have changed. When I was a young lad, all those many years ago, come the 31st of October each year, pumpkins were purchased, spoons were bent carving them out, ghost costumes were made from old bed sheets (not purchased on Amazon) and your parents made sure they had a bag of sugary treats for the arrival of ‘trick or treaters’ from the neighbourhood. But most importantly, above all else, you started learning jokes. Or poems. Or some kind of short skit. Something like this. “Knock knock. Who’s there? Cows go. Cows go who? No, cows go moo!” Hilarious, eh? If that doesn’t have you rolling in the aisles, frankly nothing will. Whilst you won’t be securing a sell-out Edinburgh Fringe Festival slot with this kind of joke, it is, however, good, harmless, innocent kid joke fun. And in the ‘olden days’, you needed these jokes for when you set out round the neighbours in your homemade ghost costume to knock on their doors. For to gain a treat, you had to perform. A joke, a poem, a short skit. That was the deal. No performance, no treat. No costume, no treat. Simple. But times have changed. No longer do children turn up at

your doorstep dressed head to toe in fantastical Halloween outfits, offering up a tame joke that you feel obliged to laugh at heartily despite the fact that it is about as funny as the lines delivered by Jim Davidson when he was still on the television. Now children turn up at your door dressed in jeans and T-shirt with a mask that they have shoved on over their face and shout at you ‘trick or treat’. And I mean literally shout at you. They then stand and look at you. Expectantly. For now it appears acceptable to simply knock on a door and expect to receive something for nothing. Trying not to appear like scrooges a month early, my wife and I once purchased a variety pack of Cadbury’s chocolate treats in eager anticipation (yes, that is a lie) of the arrival of ‘guisers’ as they are commonly known in Scotland during the course of one Halloween evening. After a series of knocks at the door that felt like the attempts of a battering ram to bring down the drawbridge of our castle, we were confronted by a ‘gaggle’ of teenage guisers, adorned with face masks straight from the costume department of the film Scream. “Trick or treat” they yelled in our faces. I waited for their joke.

By Michael Atkinson

Expectantly. Nothing. I waited longer. They stared at me. A short while longer, they yelled ‘trick or treat’ as loud as possible (as they perhaps thought I was deaf and had simply misheard them). “Do you have a joke?” I politely asked. They stared at me. I realised it was futile. I handed them some chocolate. “What’s this?” they asked, perplexed. “A flake” I replied, equally bemused, for I had thought flakes were a common chocolate of choice for many. “Possibly the crumbliest, flakiest milk chocolate in the world.” I added for good measure. Expressionless masks glared back. “Do you not have money?” they asked. My heart sank. “It’s chocolate or nothing” I replied. Bring back the olden days. That knock knock joke is growing on me. n

Michael Atkinson is a dad to two young sons, but occasionally finds the time to write on golf, whisky, fatherhood and politics.

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TS TO N S R E FO TE TO

The best stop for children’s haircuts • Customised seats • Films to watch • Sweets for after… your kids will have a great time!

AWARD-WINNING CLASSES AND PARTIES FOR HEALTHY, HAPPY KIDS stepitupdance.co.uk /StepItUpDance

07428 110 135 @StepItUpDanceUK

OCTOBERAD69MMX101.5MM.indd 1

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ball Cricket - Base Basketball Dodgeball -

Multi-Sports Coaching Programme teaching children aged walking-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 and Midlothian

07598 569 325 info@bumblebeesports.co.uk www.bumblebeesports.co.uk

We have been established for over 16 years and cater for everyone.

0131 446 0123

36 Morningside Road, EH10 4DA

www.kidsstophair.co.uk

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05/01/2018

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An education that measures up C

CMY

A Top Ten Independent School in Scotland â&#x20AC;&#x201D;The Sunday Times Parent Power Guide 2018 Find out more about our unique curriculum Book an Open Tour on 0131 337 3710 or via edinburghsteinerschool.org.uk Steiner School is a collective mark (Regd. TM 3069952) of the Steiner Waldorf Schools Fellowship. Edinburgh Steiner School is a Charity Registered in Scotland (SC00209)

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 1â&#x20AC;&#x201C;12 year olds CoMpleMented by CreatIve arts speCIalIsts

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

@EMASchool

More information 0131 672 3851

S N O I T S E QU F O R S C H O O L O P E N D AY OR SCHOOL VISIT S Written by Nikki Miller

eptember and October are when most independent schools welcome prospective parents to come and view the school during their organised open day. With so much go-ing on during these events some parents come away full of awe but without the answers to questions that are relevant to you and your child. We’ve compiled some questions that will help you establish what is important to you and your family that will help you determine which school can best match your child’s requirements. There are no right or wrong answers to any of these questions – it is just what best suits you and your child. For example:

WHAT IS THE OVERALL SIZE OF THE SCHOOL?

A. A small school may have smaller class sizes. Children are more likely to get into the team, club, choir, orchestra or get a part in a school production. B. A large school can have extensive facilities for sports, drama, music and art; more teaching staff and specialist departments. A greater number of pupils can create a stronger competitive environment.

SIZE • What is the overall size of the school ? • Are all age groups on the same campus or on separate sites? • How many classes are there for each age group and how many pupils per class ?

LOCATION • Is the school within walking distance of your home? • Does the school offer a bus services or walking bus, do you need to pay for this service? • Is the school on a convenient public transport route? made SEP / OCT 2018

FOOD • Is lunch provided for all year groups and is it an additional cost? • What sort of meals are provided? Hot or cold? • Ask about the meal time experience, do they sit with the teacher, do they eat with all age groups etc.

CO-EDUCATION OR SINGLE SEX • Is the school co-educational through all year groups? • If co-educational what is the male:female ratio? • How is the smaller gender group integrated into the activities of the school? • If the school is single sex – dose the school have links with other single sex schools? • What are the schools views on the advantages of co-education or single sex educa-tion?

RELIGION • Will the school accept pupils of any faith? • Does the school hold a daily assembly – is religion brought into the theme? • How is religion taught within the school’s curriculum?

EDUCATION • What curriculum does the school follow? Scottish, English or wider – if so, how? • How are pupils grouped? Setting, streaming or mixed ability and for which subjects and for which age groups? • If your child is particularly bright, or needs special help/attention, which schools will handle this best?

ETHOS & STAFF • Don’t miss the Head Teachers address this will set the tone of the school and your visit. • If possible chat to the Head Teacher as they will extend the main influence on the schools personality. Understanding their qualifications, background and long term plans for the school is essential to understanding the overall school environment? • What is the schools approach to discipline? Is it published? Will it suit your child’s temperament? Does it match your own views? • What are the qualifications and experience of teachers? What is the turnover of teaching staff? • How does the school reward and encourage achievements or good work ethics? • How does the school keep under achievers motivated?

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SPORTS • What sports are offered on the curriculum? • How many hours of sport are there on the weekly time table? • Does the school participate in competitive matches against other school and in what sports?

FACILITIES • What has been the largest investment to the schools facilities recently and do they have any plans for future investments? (IT suites, swimming pools, all weather pitches, performing arts centre etc.)? • When looking at facilities remember to ask which year groups get use of the facilities and when?

AFTER SCHOOL & EXTRA CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES. • What time does the school day start and end? Will you need to find wrap around care? • Play time – wet weather policy? • Are after school activities included in the fees? Are any after school activities compulsory? • What are the approximate costs of after school activities and are they available to all age groups? Are spaces limited? • Do they run a holiday club? When and what are the hours?

BOARDING * Does the school offer full boarding? * Does the school offer flexi-boarding? Or taster boarding days?

MUSIC & DRAMA • Is drama on the timetable? Can it be taken as an external exam? • Is private music tuition offered? Which instruments? Which age groups? • Are children taken out of class to attend private music tuition? • What percentage of pupils play a musical instrument? • Is there an orchestra and who can join? • Is there a pipe band and who can join? • Is there a choir and who can join?

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PUPILS

Most open days involve being shown around the school by a pupil or pupils, this gives you a perfect opportunity to get some ‘straight’ answers to questions that may concern you. For example: • Concerned about healthy eating, ask the pupil how often they get chips? • Keen to have your child active at break times? Ask the pupil what they do and where do they go at break times? What happens if it’s raining? • To gauge the school discipline ask the pupil if they have ever had a detention. What sort of behaviour would result in a detention? • Ask what teacher or subject is their favourite and why? Also their least favourite and why? • Ask what extra-curricular activities the pupil participates in and are there any activi-ties they wish they could be involved in but are not available? • Have they been on any school trips? What did they enjoy most about it? Least enjoy? • What do they think makes their school the best?

COSTS • Per term, Boarding, Meals, Trips, Books and stationary • Wrap around care, after school activities and holiday clubs • Uniform and sports kit – what is compulsory? • Musical instruments lessons

• Are there bursaries (financial support)? What is the criteria? By what percentage is the fee reduced? Is this information published? • Does gaining a scholarship from the school offer any monetary value? • Does the school offer reduced fees for siblings? By what percentage? • Does the school offer reduced fees for a particular profession or other criteria?

• School bus

ENTRY PROCEDURES • Will my child have to sit an entrance exam? What does this involve? • Is there a waiting list? Is it first come first served or by academic ability? • Is there a cost involved in putting my child on the waiting list? • Do pupils gain automatic entry into the higher parts of the school? • Does the school require reports and sample work from a previous school? The most important factor in choosing a school is making sure it is a place where your child will thrive. This relies on you knowing your own child and getting an accurate sense of whether a particular school will suit them.

Source: School Guide, Edinburgh. Copies can be purchase online at www.schoolguideedinburgh.co.uk or picked up at various locations in and around Edinburgh.

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The Mary Erskine School Stewart’s Melville College The Junior School

MAKE YOUR FAMILY PART OF OURS Values that last a lifetime are at the heart of everything that we do at Erskine Stewart’s Melville Schools.

0131 311 1111 www.esms.org.uk

Drop in and find out more at our

OPEN DAY SATURDAY 22 SEPTEMBER 2018, 10am – 1pm

Merchant Company Education Board Schools. Registered Charity No. SC009747

OPEN MORNING SATURDAY 6 OCTOBER 2018 9.30AM–12.30PM

Join us at our Open Morning this year to hear more from our pupils and staff about life at Watson’s. Register now at www.gwc.org.uk/open An Edinburgh Merchant Company School, Registered Charity SC009747

CREATING CONFIDENCE INSPIRING INDIVIDUALS

GOD ...ACCORDING TO KIDS God is a man thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s all around us, that makes love.

Saskia (9)

God is all around us but invisible.

Luke (6) You have to pray with your hands together so that God can see that you are praying and not just talking.

Xanthea (4)

The first person that died on earth was Baby Jesus. He was 50 years old.

Johnnie (5) 50

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God has superpowers

Brodie (7) God - he has a big beard. Jesus has a white coat.

Donato (5) Mary looks down on you when you pray. If God can’t see you, she says, ‘Look, there’s someone praying for you.’

Lucy (9)

God is a big man who’s dead and makes the world a better place

I don’t have a full religion but I may like Greek gods best.

Harrison (6)

He is an angel and he helps us with stuff we’re not that good at.

Finlay (9)

made SEP / OCT 2018

Benjamin (7)

A PERFECT SURPRISE I

love surprises for birthdays. Dinners at new places, weekends away, even just surprise visitors popping in to wish celebratory tidings anything that isn’t expected is fun. For my dad’s 70th we planned lots of little surprises; a trip to the dog-racing, a mini party, a trip to Escape Reality (we got locked in!) and on his actual birthday, dinner at Fazenda on George St. It was an absolute hit. For starters, the salad bar is immense - cured meats, fresh veg, sushi, salads, sauces, rices, potatoes, continental cheeses, breads. The bonus being it’s available as soon as you enter. For anyone with kids who detest waiting (like ours),

it’s ideal. And it is all delicious you could graze from it all night - but don’t! The main event is where Fazenda comes into its own. If you don’t know the concept, passadores circulate the restaurant with freshly prepared skewers of the most delicious cuts of meats. You control the service by a doublesided card you place on the table. Green meaning bring on the skewers; and red meaning I need a break! You simply take what you want. And as much as you want. Slice after slice of the most deliciously tender pieces of meat just keep coming! It’s a meat-lover’s dream. Beef tenderloin, rump, sirloin, spicy chorizo, chicken with bacon, scrumptious pork

YOU CONTROL THE SERVICE BY A DOUBLESIDED CARD ON THE TABLE. GREEN MEANING BRING ON THE SKEWERS; AND RED MEANING I NEED A BREAK!

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belly, chicken hearts - the list goes on! The passadores slice it right at your table, and then with your own little set of tongs you just pop it on your plate. My made SEP / OCT 2018

eldest (8) LOVED the tongs! He felt so grown up and gave me a run for my money on the eating stakes (pardon the pun). Fazenda has a terrific buzz. Friends had warned me it wasnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t child friendly but actually I disagree. My kids felt in control of what they were eating and tried things they maybe wouldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t normally have. The staff were brilliant with both boys and provided novelty plates, crayons, colouring-in sheets and puzzles. (They were brilliant with my dad too and stuck an obligatory candle in his dessert!) We easily managed a fabulous two hours of chatting and eating. With our feisty 3 year old in tow - that in itself was a surprise. n

MERBABIES SWIM SCHOOL

T E A C H W I T H L O V E , L E A R N T H R O U G H P L AY Written by Anna Payne

was keen to take my daughter swimming from an early age, but I found the baby swim classes to be fairly expensive, at inconvenient times, and not really aligned with my gentle parenting style. When trying to arrange lessons it seemed really hard to contact people or get information on prices and times. This wasnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t the way I wanted to engage with a brand, so I took my daughter swimming myself, and was thrilled at how quickly she was learning and progressing in the water and how much we enjoyed our fun, relaxed sessions together. After my second baby was born, I looked into classes again, but having moved out to West Lothian, I was once

OUR ETHOS IS TEACH WITH LOVE, LEARN THROUGH PLAY AND THIS IS CENTRAL TO EVERYTHING THAT WE DO again struck by the lack of good quality, affordable, fun lessons which promoted themselves as gentle and baby-led. We eventually found a local lesson with an independent teacher, but when my youngest was six months old - just as I was contemplating my return to

work - the teacher said she was moving on. I saw an amazing opportunity and took over from her. I undertook intense training, became a qualified baby to preschool swim teacher and started Merbabies Swim School. Merbabies classes teach life saving skills, water confidence and builds the foundations for early swimming, through a gentle yet dynamic learn to swim programme. Our ethos is teach with love, learn through play and this is central to everything that we do, and HOW we do it. We donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t teach children to read by throwing a book a them, so why would we teach children to swim by throwing water at them? Instead we teach these skills through gentle, child led

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lessons, where children are encouraged to play, explore and enjoy the pool, through creative and imaginative lessons, using toys, songs, games and sensory play. The pool is an amazing environment for bonding and building trust and increasing non verbal communication skills. Babies love praise, attention and snuggles with lots of eye contact, and again, this is something we really capitalise on in class.. Swimming is great for social, emotional, physical and cognitive development; with improved sleeping, feeding and development linked to early swimming. It’s also a great activity for parents and the time together in a happy environment has clear benefits for maternal mental health. I started teaching around 30 babies per week. 18 months later, five teachers teach 300+ children per week, at eight pools. Our teachers are all highly trained and have specialist qualifications in teaching baby to preschool swimming. As well as what we offer in the pool, we pride ourselves on being friendly and open. We offer easy online bookings, have transparent pricing and offer flexible payment plans. When our autumn term starts in September we are offering classes in new locations and have space for an additional 100 babies and toddlers to join us in Edinburgh and the Lothians and I am just so thrilled and delighted that our gentle, child led approach is resonating with parents. n

TEACH WITH LOVE, LEARN THROUGH P L AY EDINBURGH, LOTHIAN & FIFE

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MN FOR AUTU TING R TA S , M TER R B SEPTEM E

My 2 year old is currently splashing around in the paddling pool and sliding down into the water all by himself. This is a boy, who 7 weeks ago, would even sit down in the bath. He would scream from start to finish, washing his hair was an absolute chore. A huge thank you to Merbabies. Sam Matheson

Excellent classes! The highlight of his week. I’ve watched my son come on leaps and bounds with his water confidence over the past couple of weeks. I’m so pleased with the quality of the classes that my daughter is going to start the baby classes next term. Emma Archer made SEP / OCT 2018

Gentle, child led swim classes for children from birth to age 4 Also offering underwater photography and Birthlight Aquanatal Yoga sessions anna@merbabies.online www.merbabies.online 55

LOTTIE’S BABY BOUTIQUE lottiesbabyboutique.co.uk

A community for mums, run by mums

ottie’s is a beautiful online shop with a gorgeous range of pregnancy, mum and baby related products; where everything available has been created by mum-owned businesses, five of which are based in Edinburgh; so when you shop with Lottie’s, you are supporting other families, small businesses and, of course, mums. Lottie’s owner, Amber, has a background in the Early Years and a BA in Childhood Studies. Having seen the diversity of how families are made up and spoken to hundreds of mums, Amber has witnessed both the highs and lows of parenthood, and knows how hard it can be to juggle everything. But she has also seen how adaptable and creative mums are, and believes that more should be done to acknowledge the amazing small businesses and products that many mums produce. Through Lottie’s, Amber wants to build a platform to make it easier for families to find these products and businesses and to support other mums. Lottie’s also run weekly meets-ups at Black Ivy in Bruntsfield, monthly meet-ups for young mums at Edinburgh Arts Centre, and other mum and childfriendly activities. These meet-ups are beneficial to building positive communities, giving mums the space and opportunity to get out of the house, to meet other mums and to enjoy a warm coffee in a relaxed environment. The weekly mum-meet at Black Ivy is great because they have a “ping-pong” table that older children (or mums) can play on and, when the weather is nice, you can sit outside. Meet-ups are open to mums with children of all ages or, if you prefer, you can come along alone. Amber tells us, ‘I recently read that up to 92% of mums feel lonely. This statistic really hit home, and made me want to do something about it. I quite often feel lonely myself as my partner works away and sometimes I can go days without speaking to another adult. I get so caught up in family life

92% OF MUMS FEEL LONELY. THIS STATISTIC REALLY HIT HOME

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Lottiesbabyboutique.co.uk

Supportive inclusive community Are you a local and working, and before I know it, I’m four days into a “Paw Patrol” binge, covered in baby sick and the house is a mess despite cleaning it everyday! Often when speaking to other mums, many talk about losing their identity. I feel the meetups allow women talk about anything they want for an hour or two. Mostly it is still mum-chat but mum-chat on our terms!’ Amber has just finished maternity leave with her second child, and loves spending time with her family. She also loves doing her own thing and is extremely passionate about supporting other mums, especially young mums, to find their identity. n

business owner or creator and would like to get involved? Please email lottiesbabyboutique @outlook.com Join our community: Facebook: lottiesbabyboutique Instagram: lotties_baby_boutique

EXCLUSIVE DESIGN BY JOY TOTS

ABOUT LOTTIE’S BABY BOUTIQUE...

To find out more about Lottie’s Baby Boutique or the regular meet-ups go to www.lottiesbabyboutique.co.uk

made SEP / OCT 2018

TOP TIPS FOR

Pumpkin Season

Pumpkins at Cairnie Fruit Farm and Mega Maze

he arrival of autumn means one thing – pumpkins! As well as carving Halloween faces into the winter squash, why not take advantage of this gloriously fibre-rich flesh? Pick up a pumpkin that feels heavy for its size, with a smooth, firm skin and get cooking… PUMPKIN PIE Pumpkin Pie makes a delectable autumn treat and is served best with a dollop of fresh cream on top. For optimum results, spend an extra hour in the kitchen making your own pastry – it will be worth it!

PUMPKIN CURRY Combine pumpkin with chick peas and coconut for a delicious dinner for the whole family. Make this dish some time ahead of serving so that all the wonderful flavours can fully develop.

PUMPKIN PANCAKES Simply puree a cup of pumpkin and mix together with buttermilk along with the usual pancake ingredients to create a stack of perfectly fluffy pumpkin cakes.

PUMPKIN RISOTTO The pumpkin pieces add texture and substance to the popular rice dish, making it the ultimate autumn comfort food to enjoy on a cosy winter night.

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PUMPKIN SOUP WITH ROSEMARY from the Kitchen of Mrs. Mash 1 dessert spoonful of olive oil about 1 kg pumpkin, peeled and chopped l 1 medium onion, chopped l 2 cloves crushed garlic l 3 sprigs fresh rosemary or ½ teaspoon dried l 500ml vegetable or chicken stock l salt and crushed black pepper to taste l l

Directions 1. Gently fry the onion then garlic in the oil for about 2-3 min. 2. Add diced pumpkin and rosemary. Sauté for 2-3 min. 3. Add stock cover and cook for further 15 min or until pumpkin is soft. 4. Fish out as much of the rosemary as you can. 5. Blend it to a smooth paste. You may want to let it cool before you do this. The resulting mixture will be very thick and creamy. 6. Transfer the pureed mixture back to the saucepan and let it simmer. 7. Add salt & pepper until it’s ‘just right’ and stir. 8. Serve hot with a swirl of crème fraîche or natural yogurt in each bowl to serve. n

The original and largest pumpkin growers in Scotland!

PYO Pumpkins Apple Dunking Hot Apple Cider Spooky Facepainting

DID YOU

KNOW…

The wo rd Pum pkin wa the firs s said t time in for Charle version s Perrau of the fa lt’s iry tale publish Cinder ed in 1 e 6 lla 9 7 . Befor were re e that th ferred to as “b ey ig melo ns”.

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in Cupa October, r PYO each r pumpkins fo nd designe me white a so g in d u st cl o in hey h lue ones! T duck egg b Festival n ki p lar Pum u p o p ry ve a nd. een weeke each Hallow

Kids’ Creepy Menu Halloween Torch Light Maze

Cairnie House Cupar, Fife KY15 4QD

01334 655610 strawbcam@gmail.com www.cairniefruitfarm.co.uk

made SEP / OCT 2018

CHILDREN’S EYECARE AT

SPECSAVERS

our child’s eyes are constantly developing with the various aspects to vision clicking into place at different points in their development. Depending on the age and stage of development, an experienced optometrist, orthopist or ophthalmologist can improve a child’s visual development by intervening at the right time. Michael O’Kane, Optometrist of the Year 2018 and director of Specsavers Morningside in Edinburgh has lots of experience and expertise in children’s eyecare. The practice has become well known in the community for its fun, familyfriendly approach to a thorough eye examination. Michael says: ‘I always enjoy examining children’s eyes and have adapted new ways to get the most out of their examination whilst making it fun for them, such as incorporating magic tricks into the tests. ‘Around 80 per cent of everything a child learns is through their vision, so even a minor problem

with a child’s sight has the potential to affect their development and performance at school and if diagnosed early, conditions such as lazy eye and squints can be rectified before they become permanent.’ ‘My daughter Sophie was born three months premature and had complications that could’ve potentially affected her development including her eyes and vision. This motivated me to do a lot more research into the conditions and how to best manage them.’ Michael recently passed The Professional Certificate in Paediatric Eye Care involving further study into the normal visual development of children from birth through to teenage life. He is now qualified to a higher level in the examination, communication and management of babies’ and children’s eye conditions. The qualification gives him a greater appreciation of the science and latest research in the appropriate management of eye issues, and when – and importantly, when not – to prescribe glasses or

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issue exercises to help their eyes develop properly. An expert at prescribing spectacles and contact lenses for children, Michael is a strong advocate for children having a thorough eye examination by an Optometrist or Ophthalmologist no later than the age of three. Michael has many specialist tests for testing the vision of children. He also fits contact lenses for children as young as five years old, works at the local eye hospital and is a member of BABO - the British Association of Behavioural Optometrists, who specialise in visual development training and eye exercises. The wealth of equipment in the Morningside practice, and the further studies Michael has undertaken, are amongst some of the reasons Specsavers Morningside was awarded the coveted UK-wide accolade of 2018 Technology Practice of the Year and Michael awarded Optometrist of the Year 2018. It’s easy to let things like an eye examination slip past, but booking an appointment is simple – and free in Scotland. With a huge range of frames available which are free on the NHS, there’s bound to be a pair your child will love. n

FIND OUT MORE

To book an appointment at Specsavers Morningside please call 0131 446 9960, online at specsavers.co.uk/morningside or visit the store at 302 Morningside Road, EH10 4QH.

made SEP / OCT 2018

ROBBIE

FRANCESCO – 3 on October 6th

SAM – 3 on October 1st

y a d h t r i B y p p Ha to you

8 on September 21st

If your little one will be celebrating their birthday in November or December, and they would like to see themselves on these pages then please email: louisewilson@live.com with a clear photo, their name, age, DOB and address.

DANIEL – 1 on September 27th

JAMES 2 on October 9th

ANNA – 4 on October 29th www.mademagazine.co.uk

CALLUM – 1 on September 30th

SOPHIE – 8 on September 29th

EMMA

ISLA – 4 on October 9th

6 on September 17th

ANUSHYA THERESE 2 on October 6th

MIA – 1 on September 16th

made SEP / OCT 2018

JUDE – 7 on September 16th

EMPOWERING

Women Written by Pinky

started life off quite well, being told I was shy yet intelligent, I knew my parents loved me and were proud of me. Somewhere in my teens I became insecure, self-conscious and lacking in confidence. I went to university to read Optometry and after qualifying I met someone and was married for five years. During this time I built a house, bought a business and gave birth to my beautiful son. I divorced my abusive husband two weeks after my son was born. The universe had slapped me hard in the face, I felt broken. I lost all remaining confidence and my identity after giving birth and going through my divorce. I was scared and I felt

WE CHANGE OURSELVES FOR ONE OF TWO REASONS, INSPIRATION OR DESPERATION betrayed and lonely. These feelings became my fuel. I decided to move to Edinburgh when my son was 18 months old because I wanted to start a new, happy life for us. I found a job and moved 3 times in 1 year before I found the perfect home. During this time I had no friends or family to help or support me. I remember it

clearly as the darkest, loneliest and scariest time of my life. However, I learned so much from it, about myself and life in general. Moving to Edinburgh turned out to be one of the best decisions that I ever made. Sometimes things donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t work out the way you expect and thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s okay. Some of you may know feelings of self-doubt, anxiety and the crippling lack of confidence because of fear; it can be debilitating. I remember thinking I was the only one going through this, which made it worse. I think all mums go through these feelings of low confidence and isolation at some stage. This is why I am passionate about helping mums who have been through

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EVERYTHING YOU SEEK IS WITHIN YOU’ - LOUISE HAY a time where they have lost their confidence and, most importantly, their true authentic self. I get it. I was there once too. Motherhood is a happy yet difficult time for many ambitious women for varying reasons. You don’t know what to expect and you are in unfamiliar territory. All of us, no matter how experienced or accomplished we may be, have fears that can hold us back. We change ourselves for one of two reasons, inspiration or desperation. I changed for desperation at first, and then inspiration. That was 11 years ago and since that time I have been in my never-ending pursuit of self-acceptance, selfcare and self-belief. Going through the divorce with my 2-week-old son was no easy task, it was a steep learning curve and a big life lesson for me. Instead of focusing on “what am I getting out of life?”, I decided to change my purpose into “what am I becoming?” To have more than what I have, I had to become more than I was. If I didn’t have the resilience to get through the bullying, emotional and physical abuse of my previous relationship, I would not be where I am today. The magic happens when you’re able to view your situation and use it to catapult you to greater heights. It is odd remembering the person I was back then because it feels like viewing the life of a totally different person. I can’t even recognise that woman. It’s an amazing journey to have gone from feeling like I was never enough to being more than happy with who I am. I want to help every single one of you experience this incredible feeling. If I can do it, so can you! I now empower and coach women to feel more confident about themselves, to struggle less and stop suffering. True inner confidence is about really loving yourself and feeling great about who you are, embracing yourself despite your flaws. No matter where you are now, there is always another level to reach. To raise the bar you need made SEP / OCT 2018

to stay focused on your objectives, whether those goals are career, business or personal. Small simple steps can lead to life-changing benefits. I help you create your killer mindset to be more confident and successful in life. My passion is to empower you to be the best version of yourself and create a positive impact in your world. I am on a mission. My why is my family, my beautiful son. I finally feel like I have a purpose in my life; it only took 40 years, but I am so grateful to be here and to be able to do what I am so passionate about.n

FIND OUT MORE

Pinky founded WiNE (women in networking Edinburgh) in September 2015, an online support network for women, especially mums, who are going back to work or who have entered the entrepreneurial world. There are more than 2000 inspiring ladies within the FB and meet-up groups and this number is growing… www.bypinky.com facebook.com/bypinkyg/

Written by Claire Daly

t my three-year-old’s birthday party, her favourite game was playing bears and monsters. One of the dads was roped into becoming a growling bear every time they ran towards the kitchen and he poked his grizzly hands and face out at them with the patience of a saint. In almost all children’s story books, bears are benign creatures who eat porridge, go in search of hugs like Hugless Douglas and are generally soft and cuddly. The same untrue illusion of sweet and cuddly wild animals is attributed to other dangerous animals like tigers, and most bizarrely, crocodiles. A girl at my school was eaten by a crocodile in Africa on her gap year and every time I see one in a book I shudder. I don’t know if it’s a good thing for children to grow up believing that crocs are cuddly and bears are good for hugs. It might be fine if you never ever encountered them in real life, but what if you do? There is a whole other reality of true nature that is very hard to explain. My partner is from bear country, the Wild West, cowboy country, Oregon, USA. There are wild bears there and they do occasionally attack people. We have visited before and in the lush green woodland it seemed unlikely that anything like that would happen. Bears had not been seen there in over fifteen years. Did I explain that his parents live in a house in the middle of a forest? Accompanied by a big black dog called Decko, we’ve been on many walks in the woodland wilderness. Molly the dog was once almost eaten by a cougar and a long time ago my partner found bear paw prints in the mud. I’d always known bears were a distant threat, but this holiday the threat became much more real. Before we arrived I overheard a conversation

a walk country between my partner and his dad with words including ‘bears’ and ‘garbage’, as the Yanks call it. I panicked, that means there are bears very close to the house. “We’re going on a bear hunt, we’re not scared.” Err, yes we are, we’re terrified! Or rather I am terrified, Justin is blithely unbothered and Rose thinks she will get to cuddle them. We try not to mention B-E-A-R-S in relation to walks in case she gets excited. Rose loves all animals and is the adventurous type. As we are about to depart for our trip I realise Justin still thinks we will go for walks in bear infested territory. I set him straight. It’s just not worth the risk. The scent of young children attracts bears, according to Uncle Nick, who likes to tease and terrify me every time we visit. We get there and things seem fine. Rose plays in the garden while we are close by. We do not go on any bear hunts, I mean walks. Then Grandpa Philip casually drops bear poop into the conversation. “What?!” I squeak, “What bear poop?” It transpires that Philip had found it on a walk a few days ago and both of them had neglected to warn us of the danger. A few days later Rose and I are rolling a giant yellow exercise ball around the oversized wild garden. We try to stay close to the house but the ball rolls downhill. We go down a level to fetch it, then Rose rolls it down an even steeper slope and it falls below to a football pitch-sized lawn. Just then I stumble upon it, a large black and lumpy poo, far bigger than average wild animal poo. “Let’s leave the ball, we’ll never get it down there,” I say as calmly as I can, and we run towards the house as quickly as almost-threeyear-olds can go. Bears can run 30 miles an hour. Humans 10 mph. Toddlers much slower. We’re not going on a bear hunt again. n

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MADE Magazine Sept/Oct 2018

Articles inside

Empowering Women

Top Tips for Pumpkin Season

Lottie's Baby Boutique

Merbabies Swim School

A Perfect Surprise

The Joys of Halloween

The C Word

The Big Screen for Little People

Adventures with Worms and Other Creepy Crawlies