Award-winning classes for babies from birth to 13 months
Across Edinburgh
Autumn Term: Aug–Oct
Book now
Start this school term strong with Explore Learning!
Explore Learning is a UK-based tuition provider offering personalised Maths and English support for children between the ages of four and sixteen delivering adaptive, tailored learning experiences which align with the Scottish Curriculum.
Their smart learning tool, Compass, adapts to each child’s needs to ensure they receive the right challenges at the right time. This approach, supported by DBS-checked, professional tutors which are trained in-house, fosters a love for learning alongside academic growth.
Families choose Explore Learning not only for the academic support, but also for the confidence and resilience that is instilled in children each time they attend a session.
With flexible memberships and a track record of students making 19 months of progress in a year, Explore Learning offers a comprehensive solution for families seeking to enhance their child’s educational journey. Check out reviews on Google and Trustpilot.
The Buggy Repair Centre is open for tyre changes and puncture
repairs
Tyre changes take just a few minutes - no appointment needed. Tyres and tubes are stocked for most models, but specialist ones can be ordered.
The Buggy Repair Centre is an Authorised Uppababy Repair Hub and can order parts directly from several manufacturers. If you need a repair, contact them first to see what the options are.
Cleaning services are by appointment only and are often booked in advance, so please plan ahead.
They also sell the Out’n’About buggy range, competitively priced and available to order.
Do you have a double buggy you no longer need? Working with the charity, The Baby Bank (Mother & Pregnancy Council) at The Gyle Shopping Centre to support families in need, The Buggy Repair centre is gratefully accepting donations of baby equipmentparticularly double buggies, which are urgently needed. www.buggyrepaircentre.co.uk
13 St Stephen Street, Stockbridge Call 0131 226 4141
Everyone is welcome at the Scottish Parliament!
The Scottish Parliament is open to everyone and has FREE activities running for visitors of all ages.
From highly rated guided tours, through to their popular afternoon craft sessions which run every Saturday with a different theme - think everything from puppets to badgemaking, sun-catchers and origami.
Head along and see one of Scotland’s most impressive landmarks and learn more about the home of Scottish politics and the eye-catching building where it all takes place. During a visit you can explore the public areas of the building, including the impressive Debating Chamber. Or use the fun family trail to discover more.
Complete your visit by stopping by the shop and café. Open daily Monday to Saturday. Find out more: www.parliament.scot/visit
Take part in four days of discovery and adventure at Dynamic Earth’s excitingly epic October Holiday Club
Children will enjoy a variety of hands-on and immersive science activities both at Dynamic Earth and in the beautiful surroundings of Holyrood Park.
The Club runs daily from 8:30am to 5:30pm from 13 to 16 October. More details in the out and about pages.
Book now at dynamicearth.org.uk
Birthday Parties at Dynamic Earth
Celebrate your child’s birthday with an unforgettable journey through time and space at Dynamic Earth. Birthday Party Package starts with a guided tour through their interactive galleries, led by a dedicated Birthday Guide who brings science to life.
The adventure continues with a Planetarium show, where young explorers are transported to the stars for a cosmic celebration they’ll never forget. After the excitement, guests can enjoy a delicious lunch, choosing between Rocket Fuel Lunch Bags or a selection of hot food options.
To make the day even more special the birthday child receives a complimentary Dynamic Earth Annual Pass which means the fun doesn’t have to end when the party does.
To book your young explorer’s party, visit dynamicearth. org.uk/whats-on/birthday-parties
Can you help The Pregnancy and Parents Centre?
The Pregnancy and Parents Centre is a charity that supports families through pregnancy and early parenthood. It has been a crucial resource to parents in Edinburgh and the Lothians for 40 years. But they need your help!
With rising costs and a lack of funding, the charity may have to close their doors. This would mean the loss of a vital lifeline for families across Edinburgh, at a time where support is needed more than ever and so they have launched a Crowdfunder to raise £40,000. The Crowdfunder comments give you a feel for how beloved they are.
If you are able to support Edinburgh parents now and in the future and help keep this invaluable support going please donate if you can at www.crowdfunder.co.uk/p/save-the-ppc
If you are pregnant or have a new baby, check them out on www.pregnancyandparents.org.uk or follow on Facebook and Instagram.
Our dynamic weekly play sessions enable boys and girls aged 2–7 to develop
environment. For more details, email or call: kirsty@rugbytots.co.uk 0345 313 3252
What happens now? A financial guide for parents after separation or divorce
Separation or divorce can be one of the most emotionally challenging experiences a family can go through. On top of the personal distress, parents can find themselves facing complex and sometimes confusing financial decisions. Who stays in the family home? What support will be available for the children? And what happens to savings and other assets built up during the relationship?
At Gibson Kerr, we understand how difficult this period can be, especially when children are involved. While every situation is different, there are some key principles and legal rights that can help guide you through this transition. Who gets the family home?
One of the most pressing concerns for separating parents is the family home. In Scotland, the home is considered part of the ‘matrimonial property’ if it was bought or acquired during the marriage. This means it will usually be included in any financial settlement.
The starting point under Scottish law is that matrimonial property should be divided fairly, which often means equally. However, ‘fair’ doesn’t always mean a strict 50/50 split. The court will consider a number of factors, such as the needs of any children, the financial disadvantage suffered by either partner and whether one parent is the primary carer.
It is quite common for the parent who has main responsibility for the children to remain in the family home, at least in the short term. In some cases, the home may be sold and the proceeds divided, while in others, one parent may ‘buy out’ the other’s share. A solicitor can help negotiate an outcome that prioritises the children’s welfare while recognising both parents’ legal rights.
Who pays child maintenance—and how much?
Child maintenance is another key area. In most cases, the parent who does not have the main day-to-day care of the children will be expected to pay maintenance to the other.
The amount is usually calculated using guidelines set out by the Child Maintenance Service (CMS). It is based on the paying parent’s weekly income and can range from 12% to 19% of income, depending on the number of children. If care is shared more equally, this will be taken into account. Parents can also choose to make their own informal arrangements. Either way, it’s important to make sure that the children’s needs are being met and the arrangement is realistic and sustainable.
What happens to savings and other assets? Savings, investments, pensions and other assets acquired during the marriage are also considered matrimonial property and will
While divorce and separation are tough, they can be the beginning of a better future for everyone involved. At Gibson Kerr, our team of family law solicitors have years of experience helping families through the process to find the best possible outcome. Get in touch for a no obligation chat. Call 0131 202 7516 or email edinburgh@gibsonkerr.co.uk www.gibsonkerr.co.uk Divorce is just the start of a
usually be included in the financial settlement. Items acquired before the marriage or after the date of separation are usually not included, unless they have become part of the matrimonial assets (e.g., using pre-marriage savings to renovate the family home).
The process of dividing these assets can be complex, especially if there are pensions or business interests involved. In some cases, a clean break (where each party walks away with a portion of the overall assets) is the best way forward. Sometimes, ongoing support or staged payments may be more appropriate.
A solicitor can help this process by valuing the assets fairly, advising on legal rights and negotiating a settlement that reflects the circumstances of both parents.
Moving forward with confidence
At Gibson Kerr, our Family Law Team believes that with the right advice and support, it is possible to navigate a separation or divorce in a way that protects your rights, your finances and most importantly, your children’s wellbeing.
If you are going through a separation or simply want to understand your options, we’re here to help. Our team of friendly and experienced family lawyers in Edinburgh offers practical, compassionate advice tailored to your situation to help you move on to a brighter future.
Clubs, classes & activities
If your kids are wanting to get active, desperate for dance or drama, eager to meet new friends or simply can’t sit still - then look no further than our guide to local clubs & classes to keep them busy! When you call, please say you saw them in Families Edinburgh magazine!
Ceilidhkids
Fun Scottish dancing for all the family. Mum or Dad can partner even the smallest people for simple Scottish dances; skip, clap and march together to traditional music.
We run family parties and fundraisers and provide bespoke ceilidhs for those with additional support needs. ceilidhkids@ceilidhkids.com ceilidhkids.com
Puddle Ducks Edinburgh
Baby and Preschool swimming lessons for ages 0-4 years.
Through our guided learning approach, we teach children to swim independently, beautifully and confidently and to love and respect the water.
Join us for a FREE trial lesson. edinburgh@puddleducks.com puddleducks.com/local-teams/ edinburgh
Pregnancy and Parents Centre
Runs groups and classes for during pregnancy, as well as sessions you can attend with your baby. pregnancyandparents.org.uk
Edinburgh Young Musicians
Saturday morning classes for ages 3 to 18, held at George Watson’s College.
Creating fun football themed sessions across Edinburgh and the Lothians. Classes start from ages 18 months up to 5 years. Super Strikers are the start to your little ones footballing journey! 3 week trial available. Book today. We can’t wait to welcome you along! 07723414936 superstrikersedinburgh@gmail.com
Tatty Bumpkin
Yoga based activity classes for under 5s.
Fun, inclusive yoga sessions delivered through storytelling, props, music and movement. Introduce mindfulness with simple relaxation. Go on a new adventure each week and explore imaginative and meaningful movements with playful games and activities. edinburghwest@tattybumpkin.com childreninspiredbyyoga.com/ edinburghwest
Edinburgh
ADVERTISE YOUR CLASS HERE!
Book for our next issue now. Call Sarah on 0131 622 0405, or email editor@familiesedinburgh.co.uk
Celebrating 23 years of delivering high quality dance classes in the Craiglockhart, Colinton and Fairmilehead areas of Edinburgh. Fully qualified with the Royal Academy of Dance offering RAD exams accredited by the SQA. Grades 6, 7 and 8 are awarded UCAS points.
We offer fun classes for the hobby dancer as well as those who wish to take their dancing more seriously. Many go on to pursue a career in dance.
Joining the School is not just about learning to dance but also making new friends and becoming part of our dance family. Classes available in Acro, Ballet, Jazz, and Tap from 3 years to adults. Visit www.angelawatsonschoolofdance.co.uk to book a trial or the term.
Forth School of Music
Looking for a fun and creative after-school activity for your kids?
Group music classes and individual instrumental lessons for all ages and abilities - no experience necessary!
Mini Musicians for age 3-4 years run during the day and Little Keynotes and Storytellers group piano classes, for P1-P3 and P4-P7 respectively, run most weekday afternoons.
At their Newhaven studio, you can also try out 1:1 lessons in piano, singing, guitar, bass guitar, ukulele & violin by booking a taster session with one of their talented teachers, (after-school/evening/ weekend lesson options).
The team also offer tailored tuition for adults too. It’s never too late to try something new or get back into music after a break! forthschoolofmusic.co.uk
LS Tuition provides personalised, oneto-one tutoring for children, grounded in a holistic approach that values both academic progress and learner wellbeing.
Founded by qualified teacher Lydia Scaltsas, LS Tuition believes that strong relationships and emotional support unlock a child’s potential.
Each session is carefully tailored to nurture confidence, curiosity, and independence in a safe, engaging environment. With a commitment to inclusive, neurodiversity-aware practice, LS Tuition supports every learner with empathy and creativity. Here, success isn’t just about results - it’s about building resilient, happy learners who thrive both in and out of the classroom.
For more information, visit lydias-tuition.co.uk
Water Babies
The ‘Oceans of Imagination’ programme incorporates tried and tested techniques into a learning experience that unlocks new challenges as learners’ skills develop and uncover missions around core aquatic skills, swimming strokes and water safety milestones.
The programme brings together swimming and life skills through purposeful play in a friendly, safe and non-judgmental environment.
Aimed at families of all shapes, sizes and blends who want to give their children the best start in life. Water Babies advocate holistic learning through creating water quests and adventures tailored to every stage, prioritising child personal development and nurturing every little mind, body and soul through swimming. Get in touch today, email woggle@waterbabies.co.uk, call 0131 554 6682 or visit waterbabies.co.uk
Fun and focused music lessons and classes for all ages and abilities ENROL TODAY!
www.forthschoolofmusic.co.uk info@forthschoolofmusic co uk
Rugbytots
Rugbytots – classes are back after the summer holidays! Fun, Fitness & Skills for Kids Aged 2–7
Rugbytots is a high-energy play programme for boys and girls aged 2–7 years, running in Scotland since 2008. Our fun-filled classes are held across Edinburgh, helping children build confidence, coordination, and social skills through exciting rugby-based activities.
One happy parent recently said: “Many thanks, Rugbytots has been by far the best activity that we have taken part in and worth every penny for the range of skills and the discipline”
For further details contact sandra@rugbytots.co.uk or call 0345 313 325.
Baby Sensory Edinburgh Central
Looking for something special to do with your baby this autumn? Join Baby Sensory Edinburgh Central – the original, research-based programme designed for babies from birth to 13 months.
Each class is filled with music, movement, textures, lights and fun activities tailored to your baby’s age and stage, with separate groups for 0–6 months and 7–13 months. Sessions are friendly, well-structured and offer a supportive community of parents –full of magical moments you’ll both cherish. Classes across Edinburgh Autumn term runs from August to Halloween!
Book now at www.babysensory.com/edinburgh-central
Whether dancers want to pursue the arts professionally, or just for fun, we have a class for you!
Ballet (Royal Academy of Dance), Acro, Jazz, Tap, Commercial, Contemporary, Competition Team, Adult Jazz & Tap and more.
Classes in Leith, Granton and Meadowbank for all ages from 2½
Angela Watson School of Dance
LS Tuition
Where curious children love learning
The Montessori Nursery School is passionate about offering children an outstanding start.
In their beautiful indoor/outdoor setting in leafy Murrayfield, this caring and highly experienced team focus on unlocking every child’s natural curiosity in the world around them to develop into happy and responsible citizens of the world. Using the acclaimed Montessori Method, children are guided at their own pace using a holistic approach to learning which aims to support the development of the whole child and recognises the importance of all aspects of development; physical, social, emotional and cognitive.
Inspire! Teach! Grow!
Choosing a Montessori environment for your child has many benefits.
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This dedicated and compassionate team of Montessori teachers plan individually for each child based on their ability and interests and provide opportunities for children to advance with topics that inspire them as well as work collaboratively in their peaceful classroom and surrounding grounds.
Abstract concepts are taught using beautiful tangible Montessori materials which support depth of understanding and greater selfconfidence. Spanish is spoken and available to each child daily, and in addition to the Montessori curriculum, opportunities including cooking, drama, music & movement, nature club and sustainable art in the outdoors, are also available.
At The Montessori Nursery School in leafy Murrayfield, we foster independence, empathy, student agency and a joy for lifelong learning while supporting and guiding the child to learn at a pace that suits them. This emphasis on self-directed learning in a multi-age setting not only encourages individual intellectual and emotional growth but also supports the development of self-esteem and wellbeing. It prepares the child to head out into the world as a responsible citizen, with courtesy, respect, positive decision-making skills and inner confidence.
Our Montessori School opened in response to demand from our established community of families at The Montessori Nursery School who longed for the opportunity to extend their children’s Montessori learning experiences into the primary years.
While following both the Montessori Curriculum and Scottish Curriculum for Excellence, we take a holistic approach to learning which supports the development of the whole child and recognises the importance of all aspects; physical, social, emotional and cognitive. Consequently, our pupils love their learning journey and have become self-motivated, critical thinkers.
Self-directed learning in a family style, multi-aged environment of children aged 2½-6 years, not only encourages individual intellectual and emotional growth but also prepares the child to head out into the world with respect, positive decision-making skills and a feeling of wellbeing and inner belief. Invaluable qualities for today’s world.
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The Montessori Nursery School’s approach is recognised for developing a life-long love of learning, interpersonal skills, empathy, resilience and joy.
For more information and to find out why they stand out from other nurseries, get in touch to book a visit. Call 0131 346 8921, or email info@themontessorinurseryschool.com
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We follow the child and plan individually based on their ability and interests, resulting in strong student engagement and joy. We also deliver presentations in small groups, providing the opportunity for children to work collaboratively. In classrooms, behaviour is successfully managed using positive, respectful language. Extracurricular activities include art, music, drama, sports, skateboarding, yoga, mindfulness, capoeira and Nature School.
The most recent report and praise from Education Scotland is viewable on our website.
Do get in touch to find out more. Call 0131 346 8921, or email info@themontessorinurseryschool.com
Erskine Stewart Melvillewhere potential finds its path
At Erskine Stewart Melville, children are inspired to dream big, set ambitious goals and surpass their own expectations, no matter which path they choose.
From August 2026, ESMS Junior School, The Mary Erskine School and Stewart’s Melville College will become one co-educational school for ages 3–18. We aim to build the best possible foundations in those crucial early years.
As well as being home to an award-winning performing arts programme and wellbeing provision, our students achieve 88% A-B grades at Higher, we are national champions for rugby, hockey, football and swimming and students enjoy 500 outdoor learning adventures and trips each year.
We bring learning to life beyond the classroom, helping students become well-rounded individuals ready for life’s challenges. The Junior School offers over 100 clubs and extra-curricular activities, with 180 options to explore in the Senior School. Outside the school gates, students are always exploring and learning, from their first residential camp to once-in-a-lifetime trips abroad in senior years.
Every child in our Nursery is nurtured by experienced teachers and early years practitioners, with regular sessions by specialists in Music, PE and Digital Learning. Weekly Forest Kindergarten sessions introduce children to an outdoor learning programme which continues through School and is one of the most extensive in Scotland. We operate a partnership with the City of Edinburgh Council and eligible parents can benefit from 1140 hours of Early Learning and Childcare funding a year.
We offer fun wraparound care during term time and in the holidays from Nursery to Primary 7. We also provide a bespoke coach service with twelve routes spanning Edinburgh, the Lothians and Fife. Join us for our Open Day on Saturday 20 September. Book online.
Creating exceptional lives at Loretto
Loretto was founded on the principle that every child has talents that should be developed. Whether they’re passionate about the arts, academia, sport, or a combination of all three, the potential of every child is realised at Loretto.
Loretto Junior School gives your child the best start in life. Specialist subject teachers in art, drama, French, music, and PE prompt a journey of self-exploration and lay strong foundations for a lifetime of learning. Curious minds and an appreciation for the natural environment are fostered through time spent outdoors through sport and Forest School.
The journey continues in Senior School. Following a diverse and rigorous curriculum, pupils achieve academic excellence. Meanwhile, an extracurricular offering of over 70 activities encourages pupils to expand their horizons and discover new talents.
Pupils enjoy comprehensive academic, pastoral, and sporting facilities, including the Loretto Golf Academy – the first of its kind to be established within an independent school. Golfers of all levels have access to the school’s state-of-the-art performance centre and receive tailored coaching from experienced PGA professionals. Loretto’s location on Scotland’s Golf Coast means that pupils enjoy regular match play on some of the country’s finest courses, in addition to international opportunities.
The Loretto community is vibrant and welcoming. Every pupil is known and nurtured, with dedicated staff providing the support and encouragement required by pupils to build a rich and varied life.
Loretto is best experienced in person. To register for an upcoming September Open Day, or to arrange a visit, contact the Admissions Team on 0131 653 4455 or email admissions@loretto.com
Where potential finds its path
Open Day: Saturday 20 September Book online now
George Heriot’s School - Work Hard. Be Kind. Be Yourself.
George Heriot’s School is Scotland’s leading independent school. We welcome children of all backgrounds aged 4 to 18 to flourish in our happy, caring and stimulating environment. Pupils learn side by side with both Junior and Senior School located on our landmark Edinburgh campus.
Care and respect for others sit at the heart of the Heriot’s community. Founder George Heriot established the school in 1628 to educate Edinburgh’s ‘faitherless bairns’. In creating Scotland’s oldest Trust, Heriot set in place a story of philanthropy which continues today. The Foundation has provided over 5,700 pupils who have lost a parent with specialist bereavement guidance and financial support.
At Heriot’s, every child is seen and heard and the relatively small size of school means that no pupil is overlooked. Familiarity among pupils and staff and across year groups, ensures that we look out for one another. Relationships are invested with warmth and trust – creating a real family community.
Distribute chearfullie (of kindness, of support, of generosity) is the school motto. It is embroidered onto the pockets of Heriot’s distinctive school blazer to remind us daily of our founder’s philanthropic vision. Within school there is a focus on giving back, with a broad voluntary service programme and charitable activity in every year group.
Staff are passionate about teaching. Heriot’s record of results in national exams is uniformly in the top three in Scotland while each year brings remarkable individual successes.
In Junior School, learning and teaching grow in breadth and depth as young pupils move through the three primary stages of Early Years, Middle and Upper Primary. Heriot’s unique offering, Learning Enhancement, features qualified and experienced primary teachers delivers a programme which incorporates Resilience, Emotional Intelligence, Philosophical Enquiry, Mindfulness, Thinking Skills and Diversity, setting up good habits for life.
In Senior School, Heriot’s balance a broad education with the capacity to study exam courses in depth at National 5, Higher and Advanced Higher level.
STEM classes – a curious child’s dream
Join us to discover the energy of a Heriot’s education:
Saturday 6 September 2025 Nursery Adventure: 9.30 –10.30am
Saturday 27 September 2025
Open Morning: 9.30am –12.30pm
Thursday 6 November 2025 (Junior School) Heriot’s in Action: 9 –11am, 10.30am –12.30pm
To book your place at any of these events, please visit the Admissions page at george-heriots.com george-heriots.com
Heriot’s has a stimulating approach to the S6 year, with a flexible curriculum enabling pupils to study a wide range of subjects. Most S6 pupils’ study two or three Advanced Higher courses. Pupils supplement academic studies with a selection from a range of Interest courses which includes British Sign Language, Bioethics and Ultimate Frisbee! S6 pupils have a dedicated UCAS mentor, careers department, common room and Café; S6 pupils also participate in a Voluntary Service programme which supports local charities. Games, Physical Education and Citizenship classes are taken from S1-S5. Critical Thinking classes are added from S3-S5. In S6, pupils follow a General Studies programme.
Come and visit
Visit Heriot’s Nursery for the Nursery Adventure Morning on Saturday 6 September or the Storytime Morning on Saturday 17 January 2026.
Heriot’s annual Open Morning is on Saturday 27 September, 9:30am-12:30pm, tickets can be booked at www.george-heriots.com
Heriot’s in Action Mornings are being held on Thursday 6 November 2025 and Tuesday 10 February 2026, book your tickets via www.george-heriots.com
To find out more, or arrange a visit, please contact the Admissions Office on 0131 221 6709, admissions@george-heriots.com or visit www.george-heriots.com
George Watson’s College
A George Watson’s College education goes far beyond the classroom. From Preschool to Senior 6, we see the full potential of every pupil, with an unrivalled breadth of curriculum and inclusive enrichment programme that sparks a passion for learning. We nurture the talents of every child, tailoring our approach to ensure our pupils are set up for success. This combination of strong academics and character development consistently leads to outstanding results. Recently we have achieved a 100% pass rate in National 5 English, Music, Italian and PE with a number of pupils earning the highest marks in the country in their National 5, Higher and Advanced Higher exams. An impressive 34% of S5 pupils gained 5 or 6 A Grades at Higher compared to 4.6% nationally. (23/24 results).
Our supportive environment extends beyond academics, offering over 70 clubs, societies and 425 trips across curricular subjects, sport, music and more. Pupils are encouraged to challenge themselves and gain life-changing experiences.
On our expansive 52-acre campus, pupils have room to dream and achieve. With state-of-the-art facilities in sport, music, art, design engineering and technology, and drama, everything they need to flourish is within reach.
We also prioritise wellbeing, recognising how important this is to a child’s success. We offer proactive support, including peer-led programmes that foster a culture of care and compassion. We support our pupils through every triumph and challenge, ensuring they have a safe space to grow.
At Watson’s, we don’t just prepare pupils for exams; we prepare them for life. Our motto, Ex Corde Caritas (Love From The Heart), reflects our commitment to every pupil’s success, both in school and beyond.
For further information on future intakes, email admissions@gwc. org.uk or visit www.gwc.org.uk/apply to apply today.
explorelearning.co.uk
Out & About
Your guide to family fun events in Edinburgh
We love putting these listings together for you but please check relevant websites for times/dates/ changes as these pages are put together weeks ahead of some events just in case!
Pottery Painting at Doodles Fancy doing something fun and creative with the kids? Then head along to Doodles for some pottery painting fun. They have all different shapes of pottery, from mugs and bowls to figurines and plant pots. Dozens of colours to choose from and the items are ready one week after they are painted. Book online at www.doodlesscotland.co.uk or call 0131 229 1399 for more information.
Find Out Fridays
National Museum of Scotland 1.30-4pm. FREE. Drop-in. Exploring a different theme each week, join our Engagement team to learn some of the fascinating facts and surprising stories behind our collections. Get hands-on with real museum objects, take part in a practical demonstration, or have a go at a quick craft activity. Find our Spark Cart in the Grand Gallery 1.30-4pm during term-time.
Sensory Sundays
National Museum of Scotland 11-12 & 2-3pm. FREE. Booking Required.
Explore the museum’s collections, get creative and meet other families. Sensory Sunday sessions are relaxed, fun, hands-on,
and respond to the needs of the families participating. You are welcome to come and go at any point during a session. These sessions are suitable for children with additional support needs, neurodivergent children or children with disabilities. The content is aimed at ages 5-10 but is not set.
Mon-Sat in August & Saturday from 6 September Crafternoons at the Scottish Parliament Bring the kids along to the Scottish Parliament for a fun afternoon of crafting – with a different theme every week. Think everything from puppets to badge-making, sun-catchers to origami! Running Mon to Sat during August 2-4.30pm and then every Sat from 6 September, 11am-4pm. The Scottish Parliament, EH99 1SP. Find out more: www.parliament.scot/visit for timings.
30 August
Tracing Time: Past, Present, Future 10:30am–12:30pm. FREE drop-in. Ground Floor, City Art Centre
This workshop will ask you to look at Edinburgh’s past as well as an imagined future. We will ask you to think about how the world
you interact with everyday will transform in the next century. You will create simple line drawings of both our post-war past and what you think the future will hold. By overlapping the two drawings, you will see how the ‘in between period’ of your drawings compares to reality. Family-friendly. All ages.
From 5 September Dynamic Earth’s Science Sessions Sessions will run weekly throughout the school term and offer exciting, hands-on science activities for children under 12. Each week explores a different theme, from the fascinating world of dinosaurs to the wonders of space and the incredible story of our planet. Science Sessions are designed to spark curiosity, encourage teamwork and help children tackle realworld problems in a fun and supportive environment. Block booking is available to guarantee your child’s place each week. Whether your child dreams of becoming a scientist, astronaut, or an explorer, Science Sessions are the perfect place to spark and nurture their passion. Book at: dynamicearth.org.uk/sciencesessions-at-dynamic-earth
From 5 September Family Fridays 10am-4pm. National Gallery, Clore Learning Space
Every Friday during term-time we dedicate our new gallery spaces to families! Friday mornings are for our littlest art-lovers. Expect
interesting textures, lights, sounds, sensory art-fun… and a cuppa for the parents/carers. The afternoons are for the big kids! We’ve got trails, new play activities and hands-on making with artists.
6 September Messy Masterpieces 10:30am–12:30pm. FREE drop-in. Ground Floor, City Art Centre Artists in the mid-20th century were trained in the classical tradition; however, the explosion of abstract expressionism in the Post-War period caused a chain reaction that led to many modern artists embracing emotion and abstraction over classical realism. In this workshop, we will reimagine classical Scottish artworks simulating the techniques and style of the artists prominent in the post-war period. You will use pastels to create messy imperfect artwork that will reflect the emotions and themes visible in classical Scottish art.
6 September Polwarth Pre-Loved Sale 11am-1pm at Polwarth Parish Church. A volunteer-run sale offering 5000+ pre-loved items for children and babies. It provides a way to reduce waste and beat costof-living increases. Sellers can declutter and make some cash; buyers are guaranteed a great selection of bargains across all areas. Proceeds from the sale go directly to our chosen charity, currently LIFT who are working to tackle child poverty. Visit www.polwarthprelovedsale.com for information or to sign up as a seller/volunteer.
6 September Nursery Adventure George Heriot’s School, 9.3010.30am Book at george-heriots.com
7 September
Relaxed Morning National Museum of Scotland. 10am-12pm. FREE. Drop-in. Friendly staff will be there to give you a warm welcome and support your visit, as you explore some areas of the museum without noisy interactives and videos to give a more relaxed environment.
12 September
Open Day
Clifton Hall School, 1-3pm. Book at cliftonhall.com
13 September
Open Day
The Edinburgh Academy. Book at admissions@ edinburghacademy.org.uk
19 September
Open Afternoon
Loretto Junior School Register at admissions@loretto. com
20 September
Open Day
Erskine Stewart Melville Book at erskinestewartmelville. com/openday
20 September
Pirate Day / Shiver Me Timbers! 10am-12 noon. £5 per person. Ahoy there mateys. Get ready to sail the seven seas at Lauriston. Learn about the most fearsome individuals on the water and get equipped with everything you need to become a pirate. Our family workshop involves a treasure hunt and a variety of crafts. Don’t be scared of Davy Jones and book now online, in person at Lauriston Castle or via 0131 336 2060.
27 September
Open Morning
Loretto Senior School Register at admissions@loretto. com
27 September
Open Morning
George Heriot’s School, 9.30am Book at george-heriots.com
27 September
Open Day
The Montessori School Book via info@themontessori nurseryschool.com
4 October
Open Morning
George Watson’s College Register at www.gwc.org.uk/ openmorning
4 October
Open Morning
St George’s Edinburgh Book at stge.org.uk/admissions/ open-days
5 October
Relaxed Morning
National Museum of Scotland. 10am-12pm. FREE. Drop-in
Friendly staff will be there to give you a warm welcome and support your visit, as you explore some areas of the museum without noisy interactives and videos to give a more relaxed environment.
7 October
Action Morning
St George’s Edinburgh School Book at www.stge.org.uk/ admissions/open-days
13-16 October
Dynamic Earth October Holiday Club
Take part in four days of discovery and adventure at Dynamic Earth’s excitingly epic October Holiday Club. Enjoy a variety of hands-on and immersive science activities both at Dynamic Earth and in the beautiful surroundings of Holyrood Park. Throughout the week, there will explore exciting topics such as space exploration and life on Earth. Designed to inspire curiosity and help children become the next generation of planet protectors. Parents can book between one and four days from £55. The Club runs daily from 8:30am to 5:30pm. Book now at dynamicearth.org.uk
13 & 17 October
The Big Draw at Lauriston Castle 10am-midday
Come to the Castle courtyard just past Mimi’s and collect a drawing board, paper and pencil from the Castle courtyard, and immerse yourself in nature, why not try our Japanese Garden or Rose Garden where you are not only
surrounded by the beautiful sights of the flowers and plants around you, but take time to notice the smells and sounds of the insects buzzing and the breeze rustling through the leaves. We’d love to photograph your creations for our social media pages. With Lauriston Castle Staff.
25 October
Witches and Wizard’s School at Lauriston Castle
We encourage you to come dressed up and ready for action as we put you through your paces making potions and castling spells. What is most devilish spell you can think of? If you could create a potion to do anything what would it be? Make a witch or wizard hat and listen to some tales of magical mischief. £5 per person. Book now online, in person at Lauriston Castle or via 0131 336 2060.
26 October Halloween Magic School
With Edinburgh International Magic Festival £7 per person. 10am-midday I’s the time of year when there are more witches and wizards about than at any other. So why not learn some magic to go along with your awesome outfit. Learn, create and perform your own magic at a spooky, magic
workshop this Halloween! Learn to perform incredible magic and make new wizard friends. No previous magic experience necessary! Just bring yourself, your costume and your magic wands and we’ll do the rest. Ages 7-11. Please note, children must be accompanied by an adult. Ticket price is per person. with our partners Edinburgh International Magic Festival. Book now online, in person at Lauriston Castle or via 0131 336 2060
26 October Fright at the Museum Help, Children’s Classic Concerts’ Owen is lost in the museum at Halloween! Who knows who (or what!) he’ll encounter in those frightful hallways when night comes. Will the extinct animals come out to dance in the moonlight? Or perhaps Owen will manage to turn some dinosaur bones into drumsticks and make magnificent music with those mummies! Join CCC, the RSNO and the RSNO Children’s Chorus in this perfectly curated creepy concert. www.usherhall.co.uk/whatson/childrens-classic-concertsfright-museum
Please say you saw these listings in Families Edinburgh Magazine.
Edinburgh
Editor Sarah Adair editor@familiesedinburgh.co.uk 0131 622 0405
Next issue: November/December
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