Ptfife feb 2016 for web

What ’s On Where for families and schools www.primarytimes.net

Kilgraston School Trust is a charity. Scottish Charity Number SC029664

Fife, Tayside and Central Scotland

Kilgraston School Open Day – Saturday 30th January, from 10am to 2pm

We are an independent boarding and day school for girls aged 3–18 with a co-educational nursery for boys and girls aged 3–5.

Register by phone, email or on the day. 01738 812257 admissions@kilgraston.com www.kilgraston.com

Parenting • Education • Days Out • News & Reviews

february half term № 73 25 jan 2016 – 13 mar 2016

D e ar R e a d er We lcome to our Februa

inside this issue...

ry Issue!

magazine for you re put ting together our It has been a real pleasu r nicely! and rounds off the yea started the Spring ceful festive break and We hope you had a pea , I know it son sea ely lov a h Spring is suc Term feeling refreshed! oc, but the hav g t with snow days causin can start off a bit difficul and a jump skip , hop a but is s and daffodils innings! prospect of longer day beg new with ms a little bit brighter can get we away – everything see ans me it s day ger ather and lon nts in With the improving we eve and ies re! We have lots of activit Plus s! kid out of the house a bit mo the h wit hit a should prove to be for t fec our WOW sec tion which per olutely produc tions that are abs issue this some fabulous theatre in list to nts There are too many eve e– /fif net primary aged children. ary times. our website ww w.prim ! so we have put them on out us ng cki all the time so keep che have new events are added always a challenge, we are n ldre chi for ties Birthday par ce from pie a h wit ng de to help you out – alo that you e put together a little gui hop We ty. par a nlon, about hosting resident writer, AM Sca find it helpful. have something with your news or if you Don’t forget to email us r from you, so email ool. We would love to hea to celebrate in your sch g.co.uk marion@schoolspublishin

Marion, Anne, Sally & Alis

3 WIN £50 of Scotkart Karting Vouchers 4 WOW: What’s on Where 8 Party On & Party Guide

Calling all families and teachers!

Remember to send in your news for our news pages – we would love to hear from you!

Don’t forget to visit us online at www.primarytimes.net /fife

on

contents

Contents

10 There’s a Louse Loose in the House!

12 The Benefits of Performing Arts 14 Box Office: Your Family Theatre Guide 15 Loopy Library: Puzzles, Jokes & Fun

The Primary Times Team Editor: Marion McAdam marion@schoolspublishing.co.uk

Sales: Anne Campbell ptfife@schoolspublishing.co.uk Tel: 01355 579399

Production: Sally Teasdale ptproduction@schoolspublishing.co.uk

Design: Alison Spiers Davis Primary Times in Fife, Tayside and Central Scotland, Schools Publishing Limited, St James’s House, 118 Greys Road, Henley on Thames, Oxon, RG9 1QW. TEL: 01491 411848 FAX: 01491 411416 www.primarytimes.net/fife

...the UK’s biggest, free ‘what’s on’ magazine for parents!

Primary Times in Fife, Tayside and Central Scotland distributes more than 45,000 copies six times a year, and is part of a national network distributing more than 2.7 million copies in 61 regions across the UK and Ireland.

Primary Times is independently published and distributed free through national primary schools in Fife, Tayside and Central Scotland. It aims to inform families and children about current educational issues, forthcoming events, courses, attractions and to give teachers, pupils and parents the opportunity to participate in the magazine by adding to its contents or by joining in the competitions. It is NOT our intention to publish any racist, sexist or politically based material whatsoever. We also undertake not to carry any advertising which we would consider to be offensive to young families or harmful to the best interests of young children. Primary Times would like to thank all the schools in Fife, Tayside and Central Scotland for their assistance in distributing the magazine and for their contributions to its contents.

We would also like to thank all the advertisers who have supported this publication and therefore made it possible.

Please support their endeavours when and where you can. The copyright on all written material, logos and advertising artwork produced by our studio remains with Primary Times or with the relevant contributor. Primary Times is currently publishing over two million copies per issue under franchise licences throughout Britain.

WIN!

£50 of Karting Vouchers for ScotKart Indoor Karting in Dundee The lucky winner’s vouchers can be used for an ‘Introduction to Karting Class’, or against a Birthday Party booking (for ages 8+) at ScotKart in Cambuslang or Clydebank.

To enter, simply answer the following question: What is the minimum age drivers have to be at ScotKart?

Tel: 01382 597 557 www.scotkart.co.uk Enter online at www.primarytimes.net/fife/competitions Closing date: 22nd February 2016 www.primarytimes.net/fife | february half term 2016 Primary Times

3

what’s on where

WOW!

Wh a t ’s on Where. . .

We check listings carefully but details and prices may be subject to change.

Please always check with the venue.

1–31 January Discovery Dave Discovery Dave is challenging visitors to travel the underwater tunnel and help him spot all the sharks, fish and lobsters which live in the main tank. The Spotters Guide also features a shark wordsearch and is part of a series of new missions aimed at introducing children to the wonders of the deep in a fun and engaging way. Discount available throughout January by booking online.

Deep Sea World Aquarium, Battery Quarry, North Queensferry, Fife, KY11 1JR. T: 01383 411880 www.deepseaworld.com 1 January – 29 February Destination Space Show Explore what life is like for the entire space crew in our Destination Space family show celebrating astronaut Tim Peake’s mission to the International Space Station in December 2015!

With amazing demonstrations and supersonic science experiments including building rockets, launching astronauts and learning about life on the ISS, this awe-inspiring show is an out-of-this world experience. Normal admission charges apply. Dundee Science Centre, Greenmarket, Dundee, DD1 4QB. T: 01382 228800 www.dundeesciencecentre.org.uk 30 January Young Naturalists Club: Squirrel Survey Get ready for this year’s cone count. New members welcome. 10.30am–12.30pm. Crombie Country Park, Monikie, DD5 3QL. T: 01241 860360 www.visitangus.com Big Garden Birdwatch Day Join RSPB Scotland to take part in the world’s largest wildlife survey. Discovery which birds can be found in gardens and get useful tips on identifying them. 11am. University of Dundee Botanic Gardens, DD2 1QH. T: 01382 381190 www.dundeecity.gov.uk Saturday Fun Club Breakfast with friends followed by the Saturday Club with a range of activities to start Saturday on the right note! Suitable for ages 5+.

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9.30am–12.30pm.Cost 50p per child for Breakfast Club and £3.20 for the Saturday Club. Booking essential. Kennoway Primary School Langside Crescent Kennoway Leven, Fife, KY8 5LW. T: 01334 659352 www.fifedirect.org.uk Young Archaeologist: Marine Archaeology Develop your archaeology skills and learn about people of the past. Free but booking is essential.

2–3.30pm. Suitable for ages 7–12 years. Museum of the University of St Andrews, 7a The Scores, St Andrews, Fife, KY16 9AR. T: 01334 461660 www.st-andrews.ac.uk/museum Recording Scotland Can you collage a croft or sketch a Scottish city?

Draw, stick and build bonnie creations inspired by the Recording Scotland artworks on display.

1–3pm. Free drop in event. Museum of the University of St Andrews, 7a The Scores, St Andrews, Fife, KY16 9AR. T: 01334 461660 www.st-andrews.ac.uk/museum Loch Leven’s Big Garden Watch Don’t miss this unique opportunity to get up close to the wild feathered friends on the reserve.

For one day only they will be joined by bird ringing specialists from the BTO who will be demonstrating how scientists tag and track birds for conservation. 10am–12pm. RSPB Loch Leven, Kinross, KY13 9LX. T: 01577 862355 www.rspb.org.uk Build a Nest Box Give nature a home in your garden by building a wooden nest box to take away. Places limited so booking is essential. Cost £5 per box.

RSPB Loch Leven, Kinross, KY13 9LX. T: 01577 862355 www.rspb.org.uk Chatterbooks Fun, free and friendly Chatterbooks sessions for 7–12 year olds. Meet with new friends and share a love of books. 10.30am. Bonnybridge Library, Bridge Street, Bonnybridge, FK4 1AD. T: 01324 503295 www.falkirkcommunitytrust.org Origami Animals The perfect class for young crafters. Come along and make simple origami animals such as crocodiles, elephants and tigers. You could even create your own jungle background. Suitable for ages 5+. 10.30am–12pm. Cost £10. Forgan Arts Centre, Cupar Road, Newport-on-Tay, DD6 8RA. T: 01382 542062 www.forganartscentre.co.uk

30 January – 13 March Snowdrop Festival A collection of over 350 different types of snowdrops carpet the woodlands on the Estate.

There will also be the opportunity to feed the Piglets, see the Environmental Sculptures and join in some art and craft workshops. 10am–5pm.

Cambo House, Kingsbarns, St Andrews, KY16 8QD. T: 01333 450054 www.camboestate.com Scottish Snowdrop Festival Enjoy a brisk walk around the garden and estate to view some carpets of snowdrops. 9am–4pm Cost £3 per person. Kellie Castle & Garden, Pittenweem, KY10 2RF. T: 01333 720271 www.nts.org.uk 31 January Out of the Box: Magical Masks Would you like to be a kind king, a beautiful bride or a clueless clown? Find out how Korean people used masks to tell stories and drive away evil spirits, then design your own funny or scary mask to take home. Museum of the University of St Andrews, 7a The Scores, St Andrews, Fife, KY16 9AR. T: 01334 461660 www.st-andrews.ac.uk/museum Children’s Gallery Bookclub An informal monthly gathering for children aged 7–12 years to talk about books and share snacks and recommendations. 10am. Cost £5. Topping and Company Booksellers, 7 Greyfriars Garden, KY16 9HG. T: 01334 585111 www.toppingbooks.co.uk Fife Food Festival Annual charity food show in the heart of St Andrews, inviting all food lovers to experience the best of Scottish produce. Along with hot and cold food stalls, we have cooking demonstrations, a raffle and activities suitable for the whole family.

11am–5pm. Cost £3, free for under 12s. Younger Hall, North Street, St Andrews, KY16 9AJ. www.fifefoodfestival.co.uk Wildlife Explorers: Homes for Birds Monthly wildlife group for children aged 5–12 years. 1-3pm. Annual fee applies for the group; £10 for members, £15 non-members. RSPB Loch Leven, Kinross, KY13 9L. T: 01577 862355 www.rspb.org.uk 2 February Wildlife Watch Group Monthly meeting for nature nuts ages 8–12 years. Cost £1 per child. 10.30am–12.30pm.

Jupiter Urban Wildlife Centre, Wood Street, Grangemouth, FK3 8LH. T: 01324 486475 www.scottishwildlifetrust.org.uk 3 February A Very Fishy Tale Dundee Scientists bring you a very Scottish story about a unique creature that inhabits a Loch in Scotland - and no, its not what you think! 6.30pm.

Free event, booking essential. Mills Observatory, Glamis Road, Balgay Park, Dundee, DD2 2UB. T: 01382 435967 www.leisureandculturedundee.com Chatterbooks Chat about your favourite books and take part in craft sessions, quizzes and games. Suitable for children in P1–P7. 3.30pm. Central Library, Corn Exchange Road, Stirling, FK8 2HX. T: 01786 432107 my.stirling.gov.uk 4 February Storyclub This group is for children in P1 and P2. The children will listen to 3 stories, have a snack and do crafts. 3.45pm. St Ninians Library, Mayfield Centre, Sunnybank Rd, Stirling, FK7 0DB. T: 01786 472069 my.stirling.gov.uk

Primary Times february half term 2016 | www.primarytimes.net/fife

Harry Potter Book Night It’s time for the most magical day of the year when we celebrate the fantastic Harry Potter Books. Dress up for a witchy and wizardly time.

Free event, tickets required. Session at 4pm for ages 6–12 years. Bo’ness Library, Scotland’s Close, Bo’ness, EH51 0AH. T: 01506 778520 www.falkirkcommunitytrust.org Harry Potter Book Night Dress up for a witchy and wizardly time. Free event, tickets required. Session at 4pm for ages 6–12 years. Larbert Library, 22 Hallam Road, Larbert, FK5 3JX. T: 01324 503590 www.falkirkcommunitytrust.org Harry Potter Book Night Dress up for a witchy and wizardly time. Free event, tickets required. Session at 6pm for ages 7-12 years. Grangemouth Library, Bo’ness Road, Grangemouth, FK3 8AG. T: 01324 504690 www.falkirkcommunitytrust.org 5 February Planetarium Shows Take a tour of the night sky and learn about constellations, asteroids and galaxies. Cost £1 adults, 50p children. Booking essential. Sessions at 7, 7.45. 8.30 and 9.15pm. Mills Observatory, Balgay Park, Glamis Road, Dundee, DD2 2UB. T: 01382 435967 www.leisureandculturedundee.com 6 February Junior Rangers Environmental Volunteer Group for 5–14 year olds to learn about the natural environment whilst experiencing the role of Countryside Ranger. 10.30am–12.30pm. New members welcome, but please contact the park in advance.

Forfar Loch, Craig o’ Loch Road, Forfar, DD8 1BT. T: 01307 461118 www.visitangus.com Sub Zero Bushcraft survival skills for ages 10+.

10am–12pm. Booking essential. Monikie Country Park, Monikie, Angus, DD5 3QN. T: 01382 370202 www.visitangus.com Experimental Drawing Discuss what you see, create your own art and try out new techniques. Drop in sessions from 1pm.

Contemporary Arts, 152 Nethergate, Dundee, DD1 4DY. T: 01382 909 900 www.dca.org.uk Dundee Saturday Fun Club Join your friends for Breakfast! See event details 30 Jan. Booking essential. Kennoway Primary School, Langside Crescent, Kennoway Leven, Fife. KY8 5LW. Recording Scotland See event details 30 Jan. Museum of the University of St Andrews, 7a The Scores, St Andrews, Fife, KY16 9AR. Chatterbooks Book-based craft session for ages 5–12 years.

10.30am. Grangemouth Library, Bo’ness Road, Grangemouth, FK3 8AG. T: 01324 504690 www.falkirkcommunitytrust.org Wildlife Watch Group Activities for young wildlife enthusiasts aged 8+.

Booking essential. 10.30am–12.30pm. Cost £1.50.

Botanic Gardens, St Andrews, KY16 8RT. T: 01333 422116 www.scottishwildlifetrust.org.uk Bird Box Bonanza Lend the birds a hand this spring by making a nest box to take home as well as some tasty treats to get them through the cold spell. Drop in 2–3pm.

Suggested donation £2 per person. Jupiter Urban Wildlife Centre, Wood Street, Grangemouth, FK3 8LH. T: 01324 486475 www.scottishwildlifetrust.org.uk

what’s on where

This half-term consider the following…

• I s it hard for him/her to concentrate and/or to sit quietly?

• Struggling with literacy/numeracy?

• Easily frustrated?

• Not keen to go to school in the morning?

• Doesn’t “like” school?

• General mood different during school term versus holidays?

Raviv Scotland offers help to enable your child to learn to learn, with Raviv one-to-one weekly sessions and/or Fast ForWord online programmes tailored to suit your child’s specific needs.

For further details please contact Karen on: 07711 623 605 k.wexelstein@btinternet.com/ learningdifficulties-raviv.co.uk

Kilgraston School Our Whole School Open Day on Saturday 30th January, 10am to 2pm, will provide prospective pupils and their families the opportunity to tour our exceptional facilities, and meet the Headmistress, teachers and pupils.

Offering day and boarding education for girls aged 3–18 with a co-educational Nursery, Kilgraston has something to inspire every young woman. We are a school with traditional values but with a modern and forward looking perspective. Education is not just about exam success; developing interest and talents, nurturing an understanding of divergent cultures, and emphasising our personal responsibility as global citizens

are vital. A Kilgraston girl benefits from a wealth of opportunities to extend and enrich her educational experience. We offer an enormous breadth of extra-curricular activities, and enjoy modern, state of the art facilities including a Science Centre, Sixth Form Study Centre, excellent boarding accommodation, 25m swimming pool, allweather sports pitches and Scotland’s only school equestrian centre.

The school has an outstanding academic reputation and we have recently been placed as The Sunday Times top performing independent school for Intermediate 2, Highers and Advanced Highers 2015. For further information or to register for our Open Day, please contact Mrs Barbara McGarva, Head of Admissions by email at admissions@kilgraston.com or by telephone at 01738 812257.

www.primarytimes.net/fife | february half term 2016 Primary Times

5

what’s on where 6

6–14 February February Break Activities Discover the rich history behind the Victorian masterpiece and more about the Scottish Hero it was built to commemorate. There will be special actor performances taking place on the 6th, 7th, 10th, 13th and 14th. National Wallace Monument, Abbey Craig, Hillfoots Road, Causewayhead, Stirling, FK9 5LF. T: 01786 472140 www.nationalwallacemonument.com 7 February Model Float Plane Display Wing your way along to our Model Float Plane display by the Monikie Ducks. 10.30am–3.30pm.

Monikie Country Park, Monikie, Angus, DD5 3QN. T: 01382 370202 www.visitangus.com Out of the Box: Chinese New Year Did you know 2016 is the year of the monkey in the Chinese zodiac? Celebrate Chinese New Year with some traditional crafts, discover which animal you are and what that means! Museum of the University of St Andrews, 7a The Scores, St Andrews, Fife, KY16 9AR. T: 01334 461660 www.st-andrews.ac.uk/museum Little Seedlings Club: Tree Detectives Learn about different types of trees and the stories we hear about them. Suitable for ages 4–10 years. Free event. Dobbies Garden Centre, Western Approach Road, Dalgety Bay, KY11 9XP. T: 01383 823841 www.dobbies.com Little Seedlings Club: Tree Detectives Learn about different types of trees and the stories we hear about them. For ages 4–10 years.

Free event. Dobbies Garden Centre, Whimbrell Place, Fife Leisure Park, Dunfermline, KY11 8EX. T: 01383 823841 www.dobbies.com

9 February Chatterbooks Fun, free and friendly Chatterbooks sessions for 7–12 year olds. Meet with new friends and share a love of books. 3.30pm. Meadowbank Library, Stevenson Avenue, Polmont, FK2 0GU. T: 01324 503870 www.falkirkcommunitytrust.org 10 February Peruvian Pottery Learn about the beliefs and customs of the Peruvian Incas from their pottery and make your own magical animal to protect your house.

Free, but booking essential. For ages 3–6 years at 1.30–2.15pm and ages 7–12 years at 2.30– 3.30pm. Museum of the University of St Andrews, 7a The Scores, St Andrews, Fife, KY16 9AR. T: 01334 461660 www.st-andrews.ac.uk/museum 11 February Fishing Challenge Tackle our fishy tasks to see if your team can make the catch of the day. Free, but booking essential.

For ages 3–6 years at 1.30–2.15pm and 7–12 years at 2.30–3.30pm. Gateway Galleries, North Haugh, St Andrews, KY16 9RJ. T: 01334 461660 www.st-andrews.ac.uk Lego Club All lego provided, just bring your imagination. For ages 7–12 years. Free event. 6pm. Meadowbank Library, Stevenson Avenue, Polmont, FK2 0GU. T: 01324 503870 www.falkirkcommunitytrust.org 11–15 February Valentines Treasure Hunt Can you find where we’ve hidden things in the library? All completed entries get a little prize.

Closed Sunday. Larbert Library, 22 Hallam Road, Larbert, FK5 3JX. T: 01324 503590 www.falkirkcommunitytrust.org

12 February Uncovering the Past Meet a real archaeologist and uncover the past with our mini-excavations, object handling and hunt around the exhibition in this free, family activity day. Sessions at 10am–12pm and 1–3pm.

War Memorial Gardens, Kirkcaldy, KY1 1YG. T: 01592 583206 www.onfife.com Kirkcaldy Galleries, Shoebox Fife From pretty pastel terraces to imposing stone castles, the Kingdom of Fife has a look all of its own. Explore the different types of architecture, then try creating a building of your own or a miniature Fife village in a shoe box. Free, but booking essential. For ages 3–6 at 1.30–2.15pm and ages 7–12 years at 2.30–3.30pm. Gateway Galleries, North Haugh, St Andrews, KY16 9RJ. T: 01334 461660 www.st-andrews.ac.uk 13 February Young Naturalists Club: Wildlife Homes Help make and repair some boxes for wildlife.

New members welcome. 10.30am–12.30pm.

Crombie Country Park, Monikie, DD5 3QL. T: 01241 860360 www.visitangus.com Art Cart An active way to connect with the museum’s exhibitions. Activities will include stick doodles and wave makers. 1–3pm. Free, drop-in event.

Dundee Contemporary Arts, 152 Nethergate, Dundee, DD1 4DY. T: 01382 909 900 www.dca.org.uk Saturday Stars 80th Anniversary-themed family fun with different art and science activities. 2pm. Free event. Mills Observatory, Balgay Park, Glamis Road, Dundee DD2 2UB. T: 01382 435967 www.leisureandculturedundee.com

Primary Times february half term 2016 | www.primarytimes.net/fife

Saturday Fun Club Join your friends for Breakfast! See event details 30 Jan. Booking essential. Kennoway Primary School, Langside Crescent, Kennoway, KY8 5LW. Recording Scotland See event details 30 Jan. Museum of the University of St Andrews, 7a The Scores, St Andrews, Fife, KY16 9AR. Valentine’s Family Ceilidh Treat the family out to a knees-up at Birnam Arts with the Valentine’s Family Ceilidh, with local band Tunna to help you the dance the night away and give directions to the not-so-savvy ceilidh dancers. 7.30pm. Tickets £5 per person, includes food. Birnam Arts Centre, Station Road, Birnam, Dunkeld, PH8 0DS. T: 01350 727674 www.birnamarts.com Lego Club See event details 11 Feb. Meadowbank Library, Stevenson Avenue, Polmont, FK2 0GU. Pop-up Valentine Cards Simple yet fantastic pop-up cards to give to people you love. Suitable for ages 5+.

10.30am–12pm. Cost £10. Forgan Arts Centre, Cupar Road, Newport-on-Tay, DD6 8RA. T: 01382 542062 www.forganartscentre.co.uk 14 February ♥ Out of the Box: Chinese New Year See event details 7 Feb. Museum of the University of St Andrews, 7a The Scores, St Andrews, Fife, KY16 9AR. 15 February Small Stories Listen to local tales, sing, play and explore in these fun, interactive storytelling sessions for under 5s. Sessions at 10.30 and 11.30am.

The McManus, Albert Square, Meadowside, Dundee, DD1 1DA. T: 01382 307200 www.mcmanus.co.uk

27 February Young Naturalists Club: Wildlife Puppets A chance for craft and drama with an ecological message. New members welcome.

10.30am–12.30pm. Crombie Country Park, Monikie, DD5 3QL. T: 01241 860360 www.visitangus.com Saturday Fun Club Join your friends for Breakfast! See details 30 Jan. Booking essential. Kennoway Primary School, Langside Crescent, Kennoway, Leven, KY8 5LW. Young Archaeologist: Stone Age Skills Develop your archaeology skills and learn about people of the past. Free but booking essential.

2–3.30pm. Suitable for ages 7–12 years. Museum of the University of St Andrews, 7a The Scores, St Andrews, Fife, KY16 9AR. T: 01334 461660 www.st-andrews.ac.uk/museum Recording Scotland See event details 30 Jan. Museum of the University of St Andrews, 7a The Scores, St Andrews, Fife, KY16 9AR. Chatterbooks See event details 30 Jan. Bonnybridge Library, Bridge Street, Bonnybridge, FK4 1AD. Book-making Create a beautiful hand made book from different coloured paper using simple stitching and folding techniques. Bring along some of your favourite drawings or scrap paper if you would like it included in your book. Suitable for ages 7+.

11am–1pm. Cost £10. Forgan Arts Centre, Cupar Road, Newport-on-Tay, DD6 8RA. T: 01382 542062 www.forganartscentre.co.uk 27–28 February Scottish Snowdrop Festival Woodland walks lined with snowdrops. The gallery will also be open with the first exhibition of the year and tea, coffee and homemade cake will be available. Kinblethmont House, Kinblethmont, by Arbroath, DD11 4RW. T: 01241 890204 www.visitangus.com 28 February Scottish Snowdrop Festival The snowdrop walks starts at the castle, meander around the estate, along woodland paths, around the pond and will finish at the garden. 1–4pm.

Cost £4 adults, children free. Ecclesgreig Castle, St Cyrus, by Montrose, DD10 0DP. T: 01674 850 100 www.visitangus.com Out of the Box: Chinese New Year See details 7 Feb. Museum of the University of St Andrews, 7a The Scores, St Andrews, KY16 9AR.

what’s on where

17 February Behind the Scenes Tour Go ‘behind the scenes’ and delve into the City’s fascinating collections of Archaeology, History, Natural Science and World Cultures.

12.30–1.30pm. Free but booking is essential.

The McManus, Albert Square, Meadowside, Dundee, DD1 1DA. T: 01382 307200 www.mcmanus.co.uk Chatterbooks Chat about your favourite books and take part in craft sessions, quizzes and games. Suitable for children in P1–P7. 3.30pm. Central Library, Corn Exchange Road, Stirling, FK8 2HX. T: 01786 432107 my.stirling.gov.uk 18 February Junior Chatterbooks This group is for children in P2 & P3. The children discuss books they have read, have a snack and do crafts. 3.45pm. St Ninians Library, Mayfield Centre, Sunnybank Rd, Stirling, FK7 0DB. T: 01786 472069 my.stirling.gov.uk 19 February Planetarium Shows Take a tour of the night sky and learn about constellations, asteroids and galaxies. Cost £1 adults, 50p children. Booking essential. Sessions at 7, 7.45. 8.30 and 9.15pm. Mills Observatory, Balgay Park, Glamis Road, Dundee, DD2 2UB. T: 01382 435967 www.leisureandculturedundee.com 20 February Saturday Studio Join artists in the Creative Learning Studio for activities inspired by the Museum’s latest exhibition Draw the Line. 10.30am–12.30pm.

Free, drop-in event. The McManus, Albert Square, Meadowside, Dundee, DD1 1DA. T: 01382 307200 www.mcmanus.co.uk Besieged!

The Castle has withstood sieges and onslaughts from several armies throughout its long history.

Find out why and how it was defended. Free event but booking essential. 2–3pm. Broughty Castle Museum, Castle Approach, Broughty Ferry, Dundee, DD5 2TF. T: 01382 307200 www.leisureandculturedundee.com Saturday Fun Club Join your friends for Breakfast! See event details 30 Jan. Booking essential. Kennoway Primary School, Langside Crescent, Kennoway Leven, Fife, KY8 5LW. Recording Scotland See event details 30 Jan. Museum of the University of St Andrews, 7a The Scores, St Andrews, Fife, KY16 9AR. Chatterbooks See event details 6 Feb. Grangemouth Library, Bo’ness Road, Grangemouth, FK3 8AG. 21 February Out of the Box: Chinese New Year See event details 7 Feb. Museum of the University of St Andrews, 7a The Scores, St Andrews, Fife, KY16 9AR. 23 February Chatterbooks See event details 9 Feb. Meadowbank Library, Stevenson Avenue, Polmont, FK2 0GU. 25 February Chatterbooks This group is for children in P4–P7. The children discuss books they have read, have a snack and do crafts. 3.45pm. St Ninians Library, Mayfield Centre, Sunnybank Rd, Stirling, FK7 0DB. T: 01786 472069 my.stirling.gov.uk Lego Club See event details 11 Feb. Meadowbank Library, Stevenson Avenue, Polmont, FK2 0GU.

Preparing for the world stage Acting on stage can be fun and exhilarating – the noise, the excitement, the applause! But much more fun is your child’s appearance on the world’s stage – being ready to present themselves, face people, speak clearly and with confidence, knowing what to say and when to say it. Moving well, tackling problems, coping with dilemmas, successes, disappointments and surprises – all these can be as challenging as being on stage, and drama classes can give your child practise in how to deal with them. We teach your child skills and confidence that will help them throughout their lives, and will help them to triumph on the stage of life!

For more information contact Barbara on 01382 330052 or at www.helenogradyeastcentralscotland.co.uk

Wildlife Explorers: Make Your Own ID Key Monthly wildlife group for children aged 5–12 years. 1–3pm. Annual fee applies for the group; £10 for members, £15 non-members.

RSPB Loch Leven, Kinross, KY13 9LX. T: 01577 862355 www.rspb.org.uk 2 March Chatterbooks Chat about your favourite books and take part in craft sessions, quizzes and games. Suitable for children in P1–P7. 3.30pm. Central Library, Corn Exchange Road, Stirling, FK8 2HX. T: 01786 432107 my.stirling.gov.uk 4 March Planetarium Shows Take a tour of the night sky and learn about constellations, asteroids and galaxies. Cost £1 adults, 50p children. Booking essential. Sessions at 7, 7.45. 8.30 and 9.15pm. Mills Observatory, Balgay Park, Glamis Road, Dundee, DD2 2UB. T: 01382 435967 www.leisureandculturedundee.com www.primarytimes.net/fife | february half term 2016 Primary Times

7

party guide

Party On

by Anne Marie Scanlon for Primary Times

Party Checklist

W

hen I was a child in the 1970s and 80s a birthday party consisted mainly of sandwiches and cake. If it was a posh affair there was also trifle. Most children these days would scorn at such lack of sophistication. Or would they? Funnily enough, one of the latest trends on the children’s party circuit is ‘Retro’, where kids get jelly with ice-cream, sandwiches, sausage rolls (or sausages on sticks) and of course birthday cake. Games like Pin-the-Tail on the Donkey, Pass the Parcel and Musical Chairs never go out of fashion and going Retro can keep costs down.

Themed parties never go out of fashion whether it’s pirates, princesses or superheroes. In the past few years Frozen parties (after the Disney film of the same name) have become extremely popular.

Themed parties need not cause huge expense as many supermarkets and discount shops have decorations and table accessories to suit the various favourites, including the ever-popular Frozen. Don’t discount leaving home as an expensive option, as many local amenities have facilities that are under-used and often up for rental. If you provide your own food and decoration that will help keep costs down, and it has the advantage that no priceless family heirloom or treasured possession is going to get smashed to pieces.

Entertainment is always a worry for parents and while clowns and jugglers are still popular, children these days may also find themselves being

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tutored in football skills or meeting an Elsa (from Frozen) lookalike. Again, on the surface these might seem like pricey options but shop around on the internet and there are bargains to be found. Activity parties are increasingly popular; your child can learn to make pizza in a restaurant, paint crockery or even go on a Bear Grylls adventure in the woods.

As children start to reach the end of primary school they often become too ‘sophisticated’ for ‘children’s parties’. One option in this case is to have a cinema party where they all go to see a film. Many cinemas will organise this for you, but you can just as easily do it yourself. If money is an issue you can always have a cinema party at home, let the guests choose DVDs and make their own popcorn – then disappear! Pizza parties work equally well for both older and younger children. Pizzas are easy and quick to prepare but do keep an eye on local pizza chains for vouchers and discounts Many parents stress about what food to provide for their small guests. Some of the delicacies on offer at children’s parties would put pricey restaurants to shame. Don’t be tempted down this path, these are small children, not the Michelin committee (although there will always be one precocious child who would prefer caviar to fish fingers). The only food that should worry a host is one that a guest may be allergic to or intolerant of, as some allergies can be very severe or even fatal.

Primary Times february half term 2016 | www.primarytimes.net/fife

Invitations Aim to send out invites three weeks before the party. Don’t forget to include how old your child will be, the full address of the venue (including a map if it’s tucked away), a start and finish time, theme and fancy dress code if relevant. You might want to request information regarding allergies (food and pet allergies if you have pets and are hosting at home). Make it easy for parents to RSVP by providing both a telephone number and email address if possible. Keep a track of who has responded because no matter how easy you make it for people to RSVP you will probably have to issue a gentle reminder to some.

Music Get your playlist ready and do a test run before the big day. If you’re hosting away from home don’t forget to take the music with you! You can’t play musical chairs without it!

Food Keep it simple – as long as there are plenty of crisps and enough birthday cake for everyone. Provide plenty of water. You can get individual water bottles from supermarkets for little expense. Don’t bother with juice or fizzy drinks as there’s enough sugar in the food and many parents take a dim view of both.

Birthday Cake Home made or shop bought? It’s up to your child.

It’s their birthday and they know whether you are a super British Bake Off style parent or not. Don’t forget candles and matches for the cake, which are often overlooked. If you’re hosting away from home, don’t forget a knife too!

Entertainment If you hire someone, be sure to call them a day or two before the event to confirm they are coming.

Decorations Balloons are non-negotiable. It’s not a party without balloons.

Running Order Before the party, consider how long games and activities are likely to take, to make sure you don’t run out of time to sing ‘Happy Birthday’. Don’t feel you have to plan every second though – the children will probably welcome a bit of ‘down time’ for messing about with balloons!

Guide Reach over 45,000 families with your party business...

Call Anne on 01355 579399

hair house locks Here at Hair House Locks we love a party! Whether you’re looking for something a little different for the kids’ birthdays like our princess parties, kids’ photoshoot parties or a daddy/daughter haircare class for you and a few friends to show off your skills. Why not treat mum to a pamper with one of our vintage tea parties?

Hair, nails, cupcakes and prosecco or delicious pot tails while you relax.

A perfect pre-night out pamper, or perhaps she would prefer to try our hair spa? The possibilities are endless.

party guide

Party

let’s pretend With a Let’s Pretend party imagine the memories your child will cherish. We have a variety of themed options to choose from including: Dressing up, Craft parties, Sparkly Makeovers and Pamper parties. For further information, a full choice of themes and testimonials, visit www.lets-pretend.co.uk Packages start from £10/head and include invites, thank you notes, party bags, decorations, costumes, game prizes and all arts and craft materials.

Call us on 07977 203 440 or email info@lets-pretend.co.uk to book then let us take the stress while you enjoy the rest!

We look forward to meeting you.

Free birthday child offer Quote PT0116 at time of booking.

ScotKart Indoor Karting You can even hire us to bring some glamour to events outside the salon.

With so much on offer why not come up and see us?

Call to make an appointment T: 07936277773

Cadets aged 8+ can enjoy a unique introduction to the thrilling world of motorsport at ScotKart’s award winning indoor karting centre in Dundee, located just off the Kingsway by the new ASDA. Many of today’s Formula 1 Stars started their motor sport careers in karting; amongst them Jenson Button and current world Champion Lewis Hamilton. ScotKart offers the ideal introduction to this skilful sport, and brings to life all that practice on a PlayStation or X-Box! Introductory

courses are held weekly for first time drivers, alongside a Cadet Club for experienced drivers, and brilliant Birthday Party Packages from only £100. Visit www.scotkart.co.uk for more information.

Quick and Easy Chocolate Hedgehog Cake ❶ Buy or bake a round sponge cake. ❷ Cut the cake into three parts. The middle should be slightly bigger than the two sides, which should be the same size as each other. ❸ Cut a v-shape at the end of the middle piece of cake (this is the hedgehog’s nose), then cover the whole piece with thick chocolate icing. ❹ Place the two remaining pieces of cake on top of the iced piece, round side up, for the hedgehog’s hump. ❺ Liberally cover the entire sponge with thick chocolate icing. ❻ Use chocolate buttons or flakes for the hedgehog’s spines. His eyes and nose can be made using Smarties or something similar. www.primarytimes.net/fife | february half term 2016 Primary Times

9

there’s a louse loose about the house!

I

will never, ever, forget the toe-curling embarrassment when my small son announced, loudly, to the hairdresser, “The last time I came here I couldn’t get my hair cut because there were eggs in it”. Eggs, better known as nits. The hairdresser was extremely reassuring and said that she was no stranger to nit-infested heads and I had no reason to be ashamed. But I was.

I never had nits when I was a child and don’t really remember anyone else having them. In those days there was still a huge stigma attached to head lice. They were something that afflicted dirty people – lousy people. Since then head lice infestations have increased significantly and everyone and their mother says that head lice love clean heads. In reality, head lice do not care if your head is clean or dirty – head lice like heads.

All that matters to the average head louse is a good blood supply as they are essentially tiny insect vampires who live by drinking blood.

Head lice are small wingless creatures – therefore they don’t fly from head to head.

Nor do they jump, they walk. Females lay 3 to 4 eggs daily and these are attached (glued on, if you like) to the hair at the base of the shaft. The word ‘nit’ officially refers to the empty egg, but generally these days most of us refer to lice or any sort of lice infestation as ‘nits.’

Children aged 4 to 14 are the most frequently infected group. My son went to pre-school and despite several notices about ‘nits’ he never picked them up. But, in his Reception Year at Primary school, he more than made up for it. For the first term I was engaged in a permanent state of warfare against head lice. Nits, while they may be uncomfortable, and more than a bit disgusting, are not dangerous. They are, however, highly contagious. If a child gets infected the chances are extremely high that everyone who they have close contact with will succumb too. Everyone will need to be treated.

Treatment can be problematic, because like any good parasite, lice are survivors.

It’s no wonder British people spend approximately £30 million per annum on lice treatments. The problem with lice is that no matter how assiduously you treat them

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with chemicals your efforts will end in failure unless you remove every single last egg.

Many products claim that they kill eggs as well as live lice. They may do, but, head lice rapidly develop immunity to various chemicals. The best way to find an effective product is to ask other parents and teachers. The only sure way to rid yourself of a nit infestation is to take a two-pronged approach. Use the louse-killing products on everybody in the home at the same time.

Then nit-comb.

There are plenty of different nit-combs available to buy at various prices – again, ask for recommendations. If your nit-comb isn’t up to the job you are wasting your time. Before combing through your child’s hair liberally apply conditioner to your child’s head and work through until the hair is coated. The conditioner has several purposes – it makes it easier to manage the hair and divide it into sections. If you’ve used a chemical product on your child to kill the lice, it will help recondition hair. Conditioner eases the path of the tight nit comb through the hair, making the process easier and less painful for both you and your child.

Finally, and in my opinion, the best part, the nits show up better against the white gloop. When nit combing it’s important to start at the base of the shaft, as close to the skull as you can, because this is where the eggs are laid. I quite enjoyed nit combing as I got a great sense of satisfaction watching the black specks pile up on the paper towels I had for wiping the comb between use. But then again, I had one small male child with short hair. I don’t know how soothing I’d have found the exercise if I’d had more than one child with medium to long hair.

If you have school aged children the best way to stay on top of lice infestations is to keep vigilant. Most kids with lice will scratch. (Most people only have to hear the word ‘lice’ and they begin to itch. I bet you are itchy right now.) However, not everyone who has lice will feel itchy, so it’s a good idea to regularly check your child’s head for those tell-tale black dots. Especially before a trip to the hairdresser!

Primary Times february half term 2016 | www.primarytimes.net/fife

treat yourself When we went through our ‘nit term’ I had to treat my own hair as frequently as I did my son’s.

This was a problem for me as I have dyed hair and despite all the reassurances on the pack I was sure the treatment wasn’t doing my ‘do’ many favours.

Then I came across a nonchemical treatment – olive oil!

Cover the scalp and hair with olive oil. Massage to ensure every hair is covered. Place under a shower cap and leave it in overnight. The theory is that the oil smothers any lice who are using your head as a home.

This worked for me, but be warned. You can’t go anywhere in a hurry the next day as it takes hours to get all traces of the oil from your head.

are you a lousy nit-picker?

Lice have been with us since the dawn of time. The word ‘lousy’ which originally meant ‘louseinfested’ now also means awful, terrible or appalling. People feel lousy if they’re sick, films are lousy if they’re no good and food is often lousy. Nit pick is a relatively recent addition to the English language and means to be overly critical or excessively pedantic.

Article by Anne Marie Scanlon for Primary Times.

Tracks & Trails Who’s been hiding in the woods? Look for tracks and see if you can find out. Drop in 2–4pm.

Suggested donation £2 pp. Jupiter Urban Wildlife Centre, Wood Street, Grangemouth, FK3 8LH. T: 01324 486475 www.scottishwildlifetrust.org.uk Book-making Create a beautiful hand made book from different coloured paper using simple stitching and folding techniques. Bring along some favourite drawings if you would like them included in your book.

For ages 7+. 11am–1pm. Cost £10. Forgan Arts Centre, Cupar Road, Newport-on-Tay, DD6 8RA. T: 01382 542062 www.forganartscentre.co.uk 5–6 March Homes for Birds & Bats Make simple nest and bat boxes to help the wildlife at Crombie Country Park. Sessions at 10am–12 noon and 1.30–3.30pm. Crombie Country Park, Monikie, DD5 3QL. T: 01241 860360 www.visitangus.com 6 March Model Float Plane Display Wing your way along to our Model Float Plane display by the Monikie Ducks. 10.30am–3.30pm.

Monikie Country Park, Monikie, Angus, DD5 3QN. T: 01382 370202 www.visitangus.com Out of the Box: Ancient Symbols Can you find some hidden mysterious symbols?

Take rubbings and collect clues to discover their meaning. Museum of the University of St Andrews, 7a The Scores, St Andrews, KY16 9AR. T: 01334 461660 www.st-andrews.ac.uk/museum 8 March Storyclub See event details 4 Feb. St Ninians Library, Mayfield Centre, Sunnybank Rd, Stirling, FK7 0DB.

Chatterbooks See event details 9 Feb. Meadowbank Library, Stevenson Avenue, Polmont, FK2 0GU. 10 March Junior Chatterbooks See event details 18 Feb. St Ninians Library, Mayfield Centre, Sunnybank Rd, Stirling, FK7 0DB. 12 March Young Naturalists Club: Wildfowl Watch Learn about dabblers and divers at the bird hide.

New members welcome. 10.30am–12.30pm.

Crombie Country Park, Monikie, DD5 3QL. T: 01241 860360 www.visitangus.com Saturday Stars See details 13 Feb. Free event. Mills Observatory, Balgay Park, Glamis Road, Dundee, DD2 2UB. The Victorian Volunteers Patriotism, respectability, public duty all played a part in the 19th Century Volunteer Movement as men were urged to defend Britain’s shores from foreign invasion. Hear about what part Broughty Castle played. Free event but booking essential.

2–3pm. Broughty Castle Museum, Castle Approach, Broughty Ferry, Dundee, DD5 2TF. T: 01382 307200 www.leisureandculturedundee.com Saturday Fun Club Join your friends for Breakfast! See details 30 Jan. Booking essential. Kennoway Primary School, Langside Crescent, Kennoway, Leven, KY8 5LW. Skyward Are you fascinated by the magical world of birds?

Ever dreamed of making your own wings to take to the skies? Drop in to the Skyward exhibition to colour, craft and create your own flights of fancy.

1–3pm. Free drop in event. Museum of the University of St Andrews, 7a The Scores, St Andrews, Fife, KY16 9AR. T: 01334 461660 www.st-andrews.ac.uk/museum

Dinosaur Detectives Clydebuilt Puppet Theatre use rod puppets, shadow play and children’s toys to show the fascination, fun and the conflict that surrounds the first finds of Ancient Bones. For ages 5+.

1–2.30pm. Booking required. Bell Pettigrew Museum, School of Biology, Bute Medical Buildings, Queen’s Terrace, St Andrews, KY16 9TS. T: 01334 461663 www.st-andrews.ac.uk 13 March The Nowcast Find out how Crombie’s climate station contributes to the Met Office forecasting. 1–2pm.

Crombie Country Park, Monikie, DD5 3QL T: 01241 860360 www.visitangus.com Out of the Box: Ancient Symbols See details 6 Mar. Museum of the University of St Andrews, 7a The Scores, St Andrews, KY16 9AR. 14 March Small Stories Listen to local tales, sing, play and explore in these fun, interactive storytelling sessions for under 5s. Sessions at 10.30 and 11.30am.

The McManus, Albert Square, Meadowside, Dundee, DD1 1DA. T: 01382 307200 www.mcmanus.co.uk 16 March Behind the Scenes Tour Go ‘behind the scenes’ and delve into the City’s fascinating collections of Archaeology, History, Natural Science and World Cultures.

12.30–1.30pm. Free but booking is essential.

The McManus, Albert Square, Meadowside, Dundee, DD1 1DA. T: 01382 307200 www.mcmanus.co.uk Chatterbooks See event details 2 Mar. Central Library, Corn Exchange Road, Stirling, FK8 2HX.

www.primarytimes.net/fife | february half term 2016 Primary Times

what’s on where

5 March Junior Rangers Environmental volunteer group for 5–14s.

10.30am–12.30pm. New members welcome, but please contact the park in advance. Forfar Loch, Craig o’ Loch Road, Forfar, DD8 1BT. T: 01307 461118 www.visitangus.com Sub Zero Bushcraft survival skills for ages 10+.

10am–12pm. Booking essential. Monikie Country Park, Monikie, Angus, DD5 3QN. T: 01382 370202 www.visitangus.com Saturday Fun Club Join your friends for Breakfast! See details 30 Jan. Booking essential. Kennoway Primary School, Langside Crescent, Kennoway, Leven, KY8 5LW. Bird Spotting Discover the joys of birdwatching. Ranger Tony Wilson will guide you in identifying and spotting birds. Suitable for all ages. 1.30–3.30pm. Free but booking essential. Museum of the University of St Andrews, 7a The Scores, St Andrews, KY16 9AR. T: 01334 461660 www.st-andrews.ac.uk/museum Chatterbooks See event details 6 Feb. Grangemouth Library, Bo’ness Road, Grangemouth, FK3 8AG. Wildlife Watch Group Activities for young wildlife enthusiasts aged 8+.

Booking essential. 10.30am–12.30pm. Cost £1.50.

Botanic Gardens, St Andrews, KY16 8RT. T: 01333 422116 www.scottishwildlifetrust.org.uk Wildlife Watch Group Monthly meeting for nature nuts ages 8–12 years. Cost £1 per child. 10.30am–12.30pm.

Jupiter Urban Wildlife Centre, Wood Street, Grangemouth, FK3 8LH. T: 01324 486475 www.scottishwildlifetrust.org.uk

11

The Benefits of the Performing Arts

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he pantomime is traditionally associated with Christmas in the UK and Ireland.

Increasingly over the last decade many pantos have begun to incorporate children into the storyline. While big productions will cast professionals, local productions will usually cast from neighbourhood drama and music classes.

For some parents, the words ‘Stage School’ might conjure up images of overly confident kids but in reality a music, drama or dancing class will not transform a nice child into a precocious one. While many children who take on performing arts as a hobby are outgoing and confident to start with, even the most retiring child can benefit from an arts related interest.

Creative arts can seem to some parents as a waste of time – wouldn’t the children be better learning the times tables or practicing their handwriting than prancing around on a stage? But apart from being fun, engaging in performing arts enhances learning skills that will stand by them in their academic and adult lives.

First there’s being consistent and reliable.

For many children being on stage and in front of the spotlight is something they crave – but beyond the glitter and limelight there’s work. Your child will soon learn that people on stage don’t just show up and do it with everything falling magically into place. It only looks that way because a team of people have worked hard at making it look effortless.

Pantos, for example, generally have eight shows a week, although children are required by law to restrict their working hours. Even with limited hours children have to show up

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on time, performance after performance, even when they don’t particularly feel like it – which helps them develop perseverance, responsibility and commitment. Being on stage is also very much a team effort. The child has to learn to take instruction from the director and learn lines, songs or dance routines. As part of the team your child will rapidly develop several mental and social skills without even being aware of it. Even if a child has no desire to be on stage in front of an audience, a drama or performing arts class can help them build confidence.

A music, drama or dancing class will not transform a nice child into a precocious one... even the most retiring child can benefit from an arts related interest.

Dance classes, like being in a play or a panto, will teach your child to persevere as learning a dance routine takes time, rehearsal and practice. Your child will need to invest time as well as effort. Learning any sort of new skill will help a child to develop patience, something that is often in short supply in our ‘instant gratification’ society.

Physically, dance can help children develop their bodies and improve their overall balance and fitness. Like other performing arts, dance requires concentration and focus.

These are skills that they can then bring back to the classroom.

If your child is not sporty then a performing arts class can help them develop the same skills that team sports engender.

Primary Times february half term 2016 | www.primarytimes.net/fife

They will learn the value of collaboration, team work, responsibility and accountability.

Apart from showing up and putting in the hours, your child will learn that if they miss their cue then the rest of the cast, orchestra or dance troupe is affected too. In an environment like this the child will also get used to taking direction from an adult who is not a parent or teacher. They will benefit from constructive feedback from this adult whether they are a director, choreographer, music teacher or even juggling teacher!

In fact, far from being a waste of time studies have shown that cognitive ability, verbal skills, critical thinking, motivation and concentration are all enhanced by being involved in the performing arts. According to the American Alliance for Theatre Education students involved in drama studies outscored non-arts students in the SAT tests. It really doesn’t take an expert to figure out that drama can improve reading comprehension as well as verbal and nonverbal communications.

Further evidence of the value of nonacademic arts programmes has been offered by www.dosomething.org, noting that countries where arts and music education is mandatory (including Japan, Hungary and the Netherlands) rank consistently higher for maths and science test scores.

The organization also claims that sustained learning in music and theatre correlates significantly with better results in maths and reading. So do put your child on the stage. It won’t make you a Pushy Parent and it might make your child happier and better equipped for school and life.

25–28 March Easter Lapwing Trail Follow the Easter themed trail to solve the lapwing puzzle and win a tasty treat. Cost £2 per trail. RSPB Loch Leven, Kinross, KY13 9LX. T: 01577 862355 www.rspb.org.uk Easter Activities Climb the 246 steps to the Monument’s Crown and enjoy live actor performances of Tales from the Battlefield. National Wallace Monument, Abbey Craig, Hillfoots Road, Causewayhead, Stirling, FK9 5LF. T: 01786 472140 www.nationalwallacemonument.com Easter Egg Specials A free tasty Easter treat for every child. Wear your traditional Easter Bonnet for the chance to win a prize and have fun in the Museum hunting the Easter Eggs! Standard fares apply. Bo’ness & Kinneil Railway, Union Street, Bo’ness, EH51 9AQ. T: 01506 822298 www.srps.org.uk 26 March Young Naturalists Club: Spring Watch What on earth is that? New members welcome.

10.30am–12.30pm. Crombie Country Park, Monikie, DD5 3QL. T: 01241 860360 www.visitangus.com Saturday Fun Club Join your friends for breakfast! See details 30 Jan. Booking essential. Kennoway Primary School, Langside Crescent, Kennoway, Leven, KY8 5LW. Skyward See event details 12 Mar. Museum of the University of St Andrews, 7a The Scores, St Andrews, Fife, KY16 9AR. Egg Olympics Some eggy activities for families. Please bring a well trained hard-boiled egg along. 2–3.30pm.

Cost £2 per child. Blair Castle, Blair Atholl, Pitlochry, PH18 5TL. T: 01796 481207 www.atholl-estates.co.uk Craft Session Come along to this fun, free and friendly session where kids can get creative and crafty. Suitable for ages 5–12 years. 10.30am. Free event, tickets required. Bonnybridge Library, Bridge Street, Bonnybridge, FK4 1AD. T: 01324 503295 www.falkirkcommunitytrust.org 27 March Easter Eggspress Take part in the activities in the Easter Activity Area at Brechin Station and remember to keep an eye out for the eggs at both stations to be in with a chance of winning a family ticket to Day Out with Thomas at the railway. As a little Easter treat, ALL passengers will be given a chocolate egg by the volunteer train staff during the return journey. Booking recommended. 11am.

Caledonian Railway, The Station, Park Road, Brechin, Angus, DD9 7AF. T: 01356 622992 www.caledonianrailway.com Easter Duck Races Family picnic day out in the unspoilt setting of Barry Mill. As well as duck races there will also be stalls, refreshments and competitions galore!

12–4pm. Cost £2 per duck. Barry Mill, Carnoustie, Angus, DD7 7RJ. T: 01241 856761 www.nts.org.uk Out of the Box: Ancient Symbols See details 6 Mar. Museum of the University of St Andrews, 7a The Scores, St Andrews, KY16 9AR. Wildlife Explorers: You Choose Monthly wildlife group for children aged 5–12 years. 1–3pm. Annual fee applies for the group; £10 for members, £15 non-members.

RSPB Loch Leven, Kinross, KY13 9LX. T: 01577 862355 www.rspb.org.uk

what’s on where

17 March Chatterbooks See event details 25 Feb. St Ninians Library, Mayfield Centre, Sunnybank Rd, Stirling, FK7 0DB. 18 March Planetarium Shows Take a tour of the night sky and learn about constellations, asteroids and galaxies. Cost £1 adults, 50p children. Booking essential. Sessions at 7, 7.45. 8.30 and 9.15pm. Mills Observatory, Balgay Park, Glamis Road, Dundee, DD2 2UB. T: 01382 435967 www.leisureandculturedundee.com 19 March Saturday Studio See event details 20 Feb. The McManus, Albert Square, Meadowside, Dundee, DD1 1DA. Saturday Fun Club Join your friends for breakfast! See details 30 Jan. Booking essential. Kennoway Primary School, Langside Crescent, Kennoway, Leven, KY8 5LW. Skyward See event details 12 Mar. Museum of the University of St Andrews, 7a The Scores, St Andrews, Fife, KY16 9AR. Animal Safari Learn how animals have adapted to survive extreme conditions from rainforests to deserts, oceans to poles, and handle some fantastic animals with the experts from ZooLab. For ages 4+. Sessions at 1–2 and 3.15–4.15pm. Booking required. Bell Pettigrew Museum, School of Biology, Bute Medical Buildings, Queen’s Terrace, St Andrews, Fife, KY16 9TS. T: 01334 461663 www.st-andrews.ac.uk Chatterbooks See event details 30 Jan. Bonnybridge Library, Bridge Street, Bonnybridge, FK4 1AD. Chatterbooks See event details 6 Feb. Grangemouth Library, Bo’ness Road, Grangemouth, FK3 8AG. Pop-up Easter Cards Simple, fun cards to make for the holidays. For ages 5+. 10.30am–12pm. Cost £10. Forgan Arts Centre, Cupar Road, Newport-on-Tay, DD6 8RA. T: 01382 542062 www.forganartscentre.co.uk 20 March Out of the Box: Ancient Symbols See details 6 Mar. Museum of the University of St Andrews, 7a The Scores, St Andrews, KY16 9AR. 22 March Chatterbooks See event details 9 Feb. Meadowbank Library, Stevenson Avenue, Polmont, FK2 0GU. 24 March Lego Club See event details 11 Feb. Meadowbank Library, Stevenson Avenue, Polmont, FK2 0GU. 25 March Easter Bug Hunt MUSA has been invaded by bugs and beasties!

Can you track them down and identify them before they eat all the precious stuff? 1–3pm.

Museum of the University of St Andrews, 7a The Scores, St Andrews, Fife, KY16 9AR. T: 01334 461660 www.st-andrews.ac.uk/museum 25–26 March Easter Bonnet Workshop Open to all ages. Bonnets and decorating materials will be provided. Cost £6. The Byre Theatre, College Gate, St Andrews, KY16 9AJ. T: 01334 475000 www.byretheatre.com Egg Painting & Daffodil Making Workshop Drop-in creative session. Materials will be provided. Cost £6. The Byre Theatre, College Gate, St Andrews, KY16 9AJ. T: 01334 475000 www.byretheatre.com

Take advantage of a Free Trial at your local Kumon study centre Your local Kumon Study Centre offers individualised worksheet-based maths and English study programmes, tailored to all ages and abilities. Established for over 50 years, the programmes enable children to develop study skills and confidently tackle advanced work.

Kumon develops children through the acquisition of independent learning skills, rather than teaching in the conventional sense. Through daily study of the Kumon programmes, your child will develop the ability to learn for themselves so they do not become dependent on, or limited by, the skills and knowledge of others.

At Kumon, learning is always for the long run. Programmes enable students to progress to an advanced level at their own pace, ensuring they maximise their ability and begin to realise their unlimited potential. Kumon study takes students beyond the level they are studying at school and provides learning materials which are unfamiliar and compel them to develop new learning strategies.

Why not take advantage of our two-week Free Trial (14 days) for new students enrolling between 1–29 February and use this opportunity to find out what your child can achieve through the Kumon Maths and English Programmes?

Pancake Eggstravaganza Celebrate Easter Iron Age style with pancakes cooked over a fire; make bread rolls to bake in our clay ovens and churn your own butter.

10.30am–4.30pm. Scottish Crannog Centre, Loch Tay, Kenmore, PH15 2HY. T: 01887 830 583 www.crannog.co.uk Wildlife Walk Meet at the car park for a wildlife walk round the park. Weather dependant. 10am–1pm.

Lochore Meadows, Lochgelly, KY5 8AL. T: 01382 542826 www.scottishwildlifetrust.org.uk 30 March Wings Create your own set of wings. For ages 3–6 years. Booking required. 1.30–2.15pm. Gateway Galleries, North Haugh, St Andrews, KY16 9RJ. T: 01334 461660 www.st-andrews.ac.uk

Build Your Own Flying Machine Invent your own flying machine. For ages 7–12 years. Booking required. 2.30–3.30pm. Gateway Galleries, North Haugh, St Andrews, KY16 9RJ. T: 01334 461660 www.st-andrews.ac.uk Chatterbooks See event details 2 Mar. Central Library, Corn Exchange Road, Stirling, FK8 2HX. 31 March Storyclub See event details 4 Feb. St Ninians Library, Mayfield Centre, Sunnybank Rd, Stirling, FK7 0DB. 9 April Family Bushcraft Join us to learn simple outdoor skills. Booking essential. RSPB members £16, non-members £20.

10am–12.30pm. RSPB Loch Leven, KY13 9LX. T: 01577 862355 www.rspb.org.uk

www.primarytimes.net/fife | february half term 2016 Primary Times

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box office

of silent physical theatre and contemporary circus clowning as he magically finds a way to realise his dream of becoming a star.

o ffic e Your family theatre guide...

Adam Smith Theatre KY1 1ET, Box Office: 01592 583302 www.onfife.com 10 Feb Jango Starr: One Man Shoe When the headline act fails to show up, Jango, a bumbling theatre caretaker, is thrust into the limelight and embarks on a hilarious journey of highly crafted and heart-felt silent comedy as he magically finds his way to realize his dreams of transforming into a star!

Carnegie Hall KY12 7JA, Box Office: 01383 602302 www.onfife.com 13 Feb The Story of the Little Gentleman Just as he thinks his heart may break of loneliness, the little gentleman finds a friend who changes his life forever – a curious dog who just wants to play. A beautiful, funny and moving story about friendship.

5 Mar Fraxi: Queen of the Forest Fraxi the Ash tree is a guardian to all woodland creatures. When tragedy strikes, her childhood friend Woody must choose how to save the forest.

27 Mar Puppet Animation Festival: Duvet Day

Dundee Rep Theatre DD1 1PB, Box Office: 01382 223530 www.dundeerep.co.uk 20 Feb Singalonga Frozen A full screening of Disney’s FROZEN with lyrics on screen to help you sing along during the film. Introduced by a live host who will show you how to use your free prop bag, warm up your voices and teach you some dance moves with the help of the Singalonga Princesses.

Falkirk Town Hall FK1 5RS, Box Office: 01324 506850 www.falkirkcommunitytrust.org 2–6 Feb All Shook Up A musical comedy which takes place in 1955, somewhere in middle America. One girl’s dream and a surprise visit from a mysterious leather-jacketed, guitar-playing stranger help a small town to discover the magic of romance and the power of rock ‘n’ roll.

Featuring the songs of Elvis Presley.

13 Feb One & Only direction

We’re staying in bed all day. So put on your snuggliest pyjamas, bring your very best toy and crawl inside the blanket fort! A multisensory theatre experience, packed with puppets and original stories.

These 1D doppelgängers command the stage performing the band’s vast catalogue of worldwide smash hit songs.

27 Mar Rapunzel

When the headline act fails to show up, Jango, a bumbling theatre caretaker, is thrust into the limelight and embarks on a hilarious journey of highly crafted and heart-felt silent comedy as he magically finds his way to realize his dreams of transforming into a star!

A family musical from the creators of the hit TV show Friends. Rapunzel dreams of seeing the outside world when a young prince and his trusty valet come across her tower. Before the Prince and Rapunzel can have their “happily ever after”, however, they’re going to have to face the witch’s wrath and some hilarious obstacles in this unique fairy tale!

28 Mar Puppet Animation Festival: All the Little Birds A gentle multi-sensory story about the coming of spring. Join in a circle to tell the tale, play games and have fun with the tactile props and sweet-smelling puppets. Created for people with special needs and their companions, All the Little Birds is made for small audiences and a relaxed atmosphere.

29 Mar Puppet Animation Festival: Journey of the Turtle An imaginative, evolutionary journey of this most fascinating and ancient creature. In the beginning, turtle was shiny and fast, always

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impatient, always in a hurry, but then one day he had a terrible accident. A beautiful story about following your dreams, told with shadows, table-top puppets as well as traditional storytelling.

28 Feb Jango Starr: One Man Shoe

12 Mar Oscar & the Quest for the Underground Princess Oscar is irresistibly drawn into an underground myth when he receives a mysterious riddle to solve. Martin, a prince in the mole kingdom, needs Oscar’s help to find the beautiful Princess Emily. But the evil rat, Snotter, has plans of his own. Can Oscar beat him in the quest?

Lochgelly Centre KY5 9RD, Box Office: 01592 583303 www.onfife.com 6 Feb Jango Starr: One Man Shoe This new show for children and families, sees bumbling theatre caretaker Jango Starr thrust into the limelight when the headline act fails to turn up. Join Jango on a hilarious journey

26–27 Feb The Lost Things A boy falls and finds himself in a dark and terrifying new world. It’s a world of lost things; car keys, wedding rings, dads, and a mysterious girl who is building an amazing machine. A dark fairytale set in a fantastical world, where nothing is quite as it seems.

Suitable for ages 9+.

MacRobert Theatre FK9 4LA, Box Office: 01786 466666 www.macrobert.org 5–6 Feb The Nutcracker Escape to a magical world of snow, sweets and the Sugar Plum Fairy with Ballet West.

13 Feb One Man Shoe A delightful show for children and families featuring laughter, giggles and plenty of clowning around!

Perth Concert Hall PH1 5HZ, Box Office: 01738 621031 www.horsecross.co.uk 30 Jan 25 Year Anniversary Dance Spectacular: Julie Young A fantastic evening of music, dance and entertainment from some of Perth’s finest performers. Be dazzled by the showgirls and tap along to some Scottish favourites.

Perth Museum & Art Gallery PH1 5LB, Box Office: 01738 621031 www.horsecross.co.uk 3 Mar The Lost Things The Lost Things is about losing things and finding things you didn’t even know you were looking for. A dark fairytale set in a fantastical world, where nothing is quite as it seems.

Pitlochry Festival Theatre PH16 5DR, Box Office: 01796 484 626 www.pitlochryfestivaltheatre.com 26–27 Feb Snow White This magical adaptation is performed by balletLORENT’s cast of professional dancers, who dance alongside a local young cast of talented performers. Perfect for all ages.

26 Mar Rapunzel A family musical from the creators of the hit TV show Friends. Rapunzel dreams of seeing the outside world when a young prince and his trusty valet come across her tower. Before the Prince and Rapunzel can have their “happily ever after”, however, they’re going to have to face the witch’s wrath and some hilarious obstacles in this unique fairy tale!

Rothes Halls KY7 5NX, Box Office: 01592 611101 www.onfife.com 11 Feb Jango Starr: One Man Shoe This new show for children and families, sees bumbling theatre caretaker Jango Starr thrust into the limelight when the headline act fails

Primary Times february half term 2016 | www.primarytimes.net/fife

to turn up. Join Jango on a hilarious journey of silent physical theatre and contemporary circus clowning as he magically finds a way to realise his dream of becoming a star.

25–27 Feb Aladdin Let the magic carpet fly you away to a world filled with romance, laughter and the cheesy pop songs we all know and love, as GAMA Youth present the heart-warming Aladdin.

A timeless classic with a modern twist.

Heroes, villains and a happy ending – what more could you wish for?

The Alhambra KY12 7NX, Box Office: 01383 740384 www.alhambradunfermline.com 17–20 Feb Grease is the Word Performance by Limelights Productions.

2–3 Mar Peppa Pig’s Surprise It’s a lovely day and Peppa is playing outside with her friends. Mummy Pig and Daddy Pig have got a surprise for her and George – they can’t guess what it is, can you?

The Byre Theatre KY16 9AJ, Box Office: 01334 475000 www.byretheatre.com 6 Mar StAnza: Sleepy Monsters, Creepy Monsters Join award-winning writer, Jane Yolen, to go out owling at midnight in the atmospheric Owl Moon and to ask How Do Dinosaurs Say Goodnight? Poetic fun for all the family guaranteed

StAnza: Turning the Elements Trapped wasps, sweet-smelling pirates and embarrassing dads – anything is possible in poetry. Come and hear one of the brightest children’s poets around as she delves into two decades of her best work.

15 Mar Big Ears, Little Ears A series of informal concerts for parents, carers and young children, providing an opportunity for grown ups and little ones to share high quality live music in a friendly, relaxed atmosphere.

Webster Memorial Theatre DD11 1AW, Box Office: 01241 435800 www.webstertheatre.co.uk 10–13 Feb Sister Act Fun filled family show that will have you singing and clapping in the aisles and leaving the theatre uplifted.

20 Feb One & Only direction Formed following the phenomenal international success of the World’s number one boy band, One And Only Direction have arrived to deliver the ultimate tribute experience. A high-energy replica stage show that leave audiences roaring for more.

9–12 Mar Arbroath & District Musical Festival Association Pre-school, primary, secondary school and adult choirs, solo singing, percussion, brass, piano, woodwind, guitars, verse. All classes are adjudicated by professional adjudicators.

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