IN THIS ISSUE Great Big Birthday Party Guide 2019 Tips for a Happy and Healthy New Year What's On Asthma • Eczema Coughs • Colds?
Salt Therapy can help!
Some of the benefits that your child can experience after 100% natural salt Recommended from 6 months therapy treatments are: • Breathe easier. • Alleviate sneezing, coughing and shortness of breath. • Improved ability to cope with triggers that provoke respiratory illnesses.
0131 297 5555 33-35 Marionville Road, Edinburgh, EH7 5UD
www.edinburghsaltrooms.co.uk
Issue 112 January / February 2019
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March/April easter egg Hunts Days Out
easter Holiday Clubs
Pregnancy and Baby Feature
What's on and so much more!
2 Families Edinburgh
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Murrayfield Nursery
Stephanie, our pre-school teacher, has been doing her training recently to become a qualified Forest School Leader. This has been a mixture of practical and theoretical study and she will then run a number of assessed sessions before she is qualified. We are hoping that this will enable us to carry out even more outdoor play and learning, as the children love both their eco-garden in the nursery and their trips ‘up the hill’ to nearby woodland. We have also been refurbishing and redecorating throughout the nursery and are looking smarter than ever, with better storage and a new outdoor shelter, which makes it easier for the children to get outside in all weathers. Do come and visit us! The Murrayfield Nursery, 52 Saughton Crescent, Edinburgh 0131 346 4459 manager@themurrayfieldnursery.co.uk
What’s inside...
3-5
Local News and Views
6-7
Clubs and Classes News
8
6 Ways to Stay Healthy
9
Managing Separation advice from Gibson Kerr
10 - 17 Great Big Birthday Party Guide 2019 18
How to Have a Happy New Year
19
Top Tips to Turn Your Family into Eco Warriors
20 - 23 Out and About
Get in Touch T
0131 622 0405
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editor@familiesedinburgh.com @FamiliesEdinburghMagazine @Familiesedinbur
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Pregnancy & Family Fair coming to Edinburgh this Spring!
NHS Lothian Speech and Language Therapy Drop In
Bonnie Bairn brings together the best local experts, service providers and independent retailers who can support you from pregnancy, to birth and through parenthood; ensuring you and your baby get off to the best possible start. A day packed with informative talks and workshops for the grown-ups, as well as taster sessions and entertainment for your babies and young children. There is something for the whole family to enjoy, plus premium goody bags and a free Epic Prize Draw. A local fair, for local families, sharing everything that is wonderful about raising a family in Scotland. Get your tickets in advance & save! visit www.bonnie-bairn.co.uk Use code FAM35 for 35% discount
NHS Lothian Speech and Language Therapy department have been working on making it easier for people to get in touch with us to ask questions or get advice about their little ones’ (under 4 years old) speech and language development. We have started running ‘Drop In’ sessions all over Edinburgh, the details of your local ‘Drop In’ can be found on our website (www.lets-talk.scot.nhs.uk) under the Parents/Families heading! We set up with some fun toys and parents are welcome to drop in to see us with their little ones at any point during that time. Please come along if you have any queries or concerns about your children’s speech or language! We will have a little play and can give advice for next steps in helping their development. You can also check out our website for tips – www.lets-talk.scot.nhs.uk and give our new Facebook page a like at nhslothianslt
Age Scotland This January Age Scotland is launching an ambitious cross-referring package of services called Independent Living. It aims to support and enable older people to live in their own homes for as long as possible, as research shows that most of us want to do. Independent Living integrates four of Age Scotland’s services – a helpline, daily welfare calls, home maintenance and social interactions – to ensure that more lonely and isolated older people are supported and have improved quality of life. The programme will positively impact the lives of around 18,000 older people in the first year alone – especially those at risk or vulnerable, in rural communities, living with dementia, or recently bereaved. To find out more about these important services, visit www.agescotland.org.uk/independentliving or call the Age Scotland helpline on 0800 12 44 222
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Make this Winter a healthy one for the whole family!
A Family Education with ESMS
Does your child have a constant cough/cold or suffer from asthma, eczema or respiratory allergies? Why not give Edinburgh’s only Salt Room a try this year. It’s simple, effective and best of all drug free! Salt kills bacteria, it’s anti-inflammatory and helps break up mucus. It also removes airborne particles and toxins to improve the ability to cope with allergic reactions. Kids can have fun without even realising they are having any treatment! Whilst playing, they inhale dry, salt-enriched air deep into their lungs, clearing the airways and making breathing easier after just a few sessions. It can have a lasting effect on their health, boosting their immune system to prevent the frequent recurrence of their symptoms. Salt Therapy is definitely becoming a preferred method to treat many conditions so come along and take advantage of our Salt Therapy packages. Edinburgh Salt Rooms, Meadowbank, is open Tue-Sat. Please call 0131 297 5555 for any enquiries or bookings.
ESMS are a unique family of independent schools for boys and girls in Edinburgh offering Nursery, Primary and Secondary education. Children are taught together from Nursery to Primary 7 after which they then enjoy the benefits of single-sex, but very closely twinned, senior education before joining together again for a co-educational Sixth Form. The Best Start in Life We are passionate about giving our children the very best opportunities, and for us that starts on day one. From age three, we welcome children into the ESMS family, where they immediately begin to benefit from all the resources our three schools have to offer. Our purpose-built Early Years Centre provides a safe and homely environment in which our girls and boys take their first educational steps. With a staff ratio of one adult to six children, we provide the individual and personalised attention that is so vital to a child’s healthy development. Within our Nursery rooms for four year olds, every child is nurtured in all aspects of development by fully qualified teachers and experienced early years staff, in addition to regular sessions with specialist staff in Music, PE and ICT. Every room has direct access to our extensive grounds and the children take part in weekly Forest Kindergarten expeditions held on site. Wraparound Childcare Our e-Plus services offer wraparound care during term time and, together with our Holiday Club, provide a welcoming, safe and secure environment for children from Nursery to Primary 7. Please contact our Admissions Manager, Aoife, for further information, or to arrange a tour of our purpose-built facilities and extensive outdoor play spaces. Tel: 0131 311 1111 Email: admissions@esms.org.uk
Dreaming of a family retreat to South West France next summer? Nestled in the heart of the stunning Dordogne, Le Chevrefeuille B & amp; B and self-catering is the ideal family holiday haven. Approved by leading UK preschool tour operators, Le Chevrefeuille is easy to reach with low-cost direct flights from Edinburgh to Bergerac and Bordeaux. This stunning accommodation has won Tripadvisor’s Certificate of Excellence every year since opening and is centrally located to Dordogne’s most famous tourist sites. Onsite there’s ample kidfriendly entertainment: toy-room, pool with safety fence, animals, bikes and beautiful grassed play area. All baby equipment is provided and for kids of all ages: babysitting! Parents will love the stunning poolside views, beautifully appointed rooms and cottages and award-winning cookery school. For a unique experience, sign up for the highly acclaimed family cookery course - it’s fun, educational and a great opportunity for some family bonding time! Quote ‘Families edinburgh’ for a 5% discount off all bookings (outwith July and August).
Visit www.dordognefamilyholiday.com for more information on this blissful family retreat!
4 Families Edinburgh
Exciting Free Opportunity for Young String Players in Scotland SCO String Academy in partnership with St Mary’s Music School is a FREE initiative for young musicians who play violin, viola, cello or double bass and have reached Grade 6+. Young musicians from all walks of life will work alongside SCO musicians to develop their technique, musicianship and orchestral playing. In addition to the enhanced psychological wellbeing that group musicmaking confers, participants will benefit by developing key life skills such as social confidence, teamwork, communication skills, and a sense of accomplishment. In the past year, SCO musicians have worked with over 10,000 young people across Scotland, and are passionate about engaging with young people through music. The first project takes place in Edinburgh in March 2019. It is a FREE initiative, with no auditions and young musicians are encouraged to sign up at sco.org.uk/stringacademy
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Grandparents make great hosts
Morrison’s Academy Primary School opens new storytelling space
Academic Families host Marie is a Grandmother and like many grandparents often looks after her grandchildren. Marie contacted Academic Families explaining she would like her own grandchildren to learn about other cultures and was interested in hosting students from overseas. When the students are at her house her grandchildren love to come over and kick a ball around the garden with Diego and have also enjoyed accompanying grandma and Richard on a trip to the Chinese supermarket to stock up on some of Richard’s favourite food. ‘My own grandchildren have thrived on meeting these children who are from totally different cultural backgrounds. Children are the same the world over and the younger grandchildren quickly engage and find common ground. Being a grandparent of five this venture has brought me into contact with students who have been a breath of fresh air, but my hope is that they felt safe and secure during their short stay.’
The space, officially opened by the Rector in November, was created as a collaborative project, with parents, pupils and staff all contributing under the creative supervision of parent volunteers Anna Olson and Neil Thomson. The space presents a Scottish/Celtic landscape, with local wildlife and mythological characters under a forest canopy. The main feature is a magical tree made from ropes and felted leaves which rises to the ceiling and bridges the main space and the central corridor of the school. For the official opening, the school held a Mad Hatter’s Tea Party, with pupils and teachers in their most fantastic costumes to celebrate the wonders of books, words, rhyme, music, song and storytelling. The programme of events included a musical concert by Neil Thomson and Sandy Black, traditional Scottish tunes, felt-making, cariacatures, and a visit from local folklorist, author and singer Margaret Bennett, who entranced the children with her gentle and charming stories about rude rabbits and helpful hedgehogs and old true tales of the Drovers and the Highland way of life handed down from the past. The space will be used to encourage a love of books and reading, hosting ‘guest readers’ throughout the year, and as a special space where classes can let their imagination run wild. The school and Miss Bulloch would like to thank Anna and Neil for their tireless hard work, creativity and dedication to pull off a truly magical project and create a learning space which will encourage our children to have a passion for books and reading.
Students not only love hearing the rich stories of life from their seniors but many of our students need some quiet time for exam revision, so this combination works well. Hosts are carefully matched with children and fully supported by Academic Families – the only Scottish based AEGIS accredited guardianship agency. Academic Families is responsible for students, making all the arrangements and quickly resolving any hosting concerns. Expenses are reimbursed including a nightly allowance, so hosts aren’t out of pocket. Inviting a child to your home for the weekend is only the beginning and before you know it, you will have family links and invitations all around the world. What could be a better preparation for your children or grandchildren in our increasingly global world? Contact Academic Families to learn more about supporting an international student - info@academicfamilies.com 0131 331 3317
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Casa Montessori Nursery is coming soon to Bruntsfield Created by the team behind Montessori Mornings, the setting will offer full-time, year-round care with Montessori environments for all age groups. With a strong sustainability ethos, the huge enclosed garden with nature-based play structures and an emphasis on nurturing independence in the child, Casa will be a calm, home-like place where children can thrive in peace and freedom as they build their mental potential to emerge ready for the world. Pre-enrollment will open soon To find out more about Montessori and sign up for updates, visit the website www.montessorimornings.com
Call us on 0131 622 0405
Angela Watson School of Dance Angela Watson School of Dance run classes in ballet from three years of age up to the Royal Academy of Dance Advanced Foundation Level as well as Modern, Acro, Commercial and Hip Hop classes. We have been successfully running dance classes for over 16 years in the Colinton, Fairmilehead and Firrhill areas of Edinburgh and many of our pupils have stayed on from the age of three into their late teens and some have even joined our adult ballet class. Join our wonderfully creative pre school ballet classes where we will take you on a magical journey up the garden path and into the world of make believe as we dance our way though stories with mime and imagination whilst learning the basics of skipping, jumping, galloping and coordination. Our Colinton nursery ballet classes have a live pianist which is wonderful for musicality and dynamics. From School age we follow the RAD ballet syllabus. We hope to see you at class, Angela Watson ARAD, RAD RTS
Families Edinburgh 5
cluBS&claSSeS looking for a new activity for the new year? One of Edinburgh’s leading dance schools, DN Dance, is now accepting registrations for their classes which run across the city. Teaching a wide variety of dance styles from ballet, jazz and tap to acro and breakdance, the experienced teachers make it a fun, supportive and welcoming environment for girls and boys from the age of 2 upwards. Classes run from the Main Branch in Chesser as well as Crewe Toll, Kirkliston and Leith and a free trial lesson is available - just email nicky@dndance.co.uk or visit the website for more information www.dndance.co.uk.
Song circle Singing with babies and toddlers is known to stimulate development and Song Circle in Skylark Cafe, Stockbridge provides a warm welcome, fresh brewed coffee and pots of tea with plenty of chocolate biscuits in the break. You and your wee one will learn a whole lot of songs, poems and action songs and enjoy the benefits of releasing feel good endorphins and meeting new friends. The groups are small and the room bright and cheery and Scottish folk singer and songwriter Gill Bowman has structured her classes to include some dancing and percussion. MON - FRI 9.10am & 10.30am (must be booked) Also Mon 3.10pm and Saturday 10.30am (drop in) Text 07973 493933 or email songcircle.gill@gmail.com
SoccerStartS Soccerstarts Football Skills Coaching First 4 weeks for £10 only! Classes for walking to 3 years, 3 to 5 years and Primary School age. Contact b.robertson@soccerstarts.co.uk for information or to join classes within the existing packed timetable at: Musselburgh Sports Centre, Edinburgh College Sighthill Campus and Westwoods Health Club, Edinburgh. www.soccerstartsfootballacademy.co.uk for more information or to book now! Soccerstarts Football Academy also provides one to one football coaching and birthday parties for primary age children.
kiDScene after School anD holiDay cluB Kidscene provides after school and holiday care to children aged 4-16, with and without disabilities. We especially welcome children with a vision impairment and we reserve a number of spaces for partially sighted and blind children. Our premises are within the Royal Blind School campus in Morningside, Edinburgh. Our facilities are furnished to a high standard and include a messy room, a playroom and a kitchen, all with full disabled access. Our playroom includes a chill out zone, imagination area, construction area, computer and console games, board games and puzzles, and a sensory area. We also have access to the Royal Blind School’s facilities including a hydrotherapy pool, sensory garden, soft play area and outdoor multi-use games area. Please visit www.royalblind.org/child-care for fees and more information.
Jack anD Jill
get a heaDStart with languageS froM Birth!
Scottish dancing is fun, great exercise and a good way to make new friends Classes to suit all abilities
Expert teachers and live music
For a brain-boosting activity where the whole family will benefit make sure to check out Mini French™ and, new to 2019, Mini Spanish! When is the best time to start languages? The answer to that question is always - now! And Felicity & her team can show you how. The Music & Movement methodology is highly engaging and has you learning from WEEK ONE. Music for home use is part of the course. Book now for Mini French or join the Mini Spanish waiting list as space is limited. Mini Languages is the loving creation of Felicity, Mum to three bilingual children and she is always happy to chat. www.minifrench.co.uk or Facebook/MiniSpanish
Jack and Jill’s Music Fun for Tots offer weekly music classes for children aged 0-5 and their accompanying adult (and siblings!). Classes take place in Marchmont, at St Catherine's Argyle Church on Grange Road. Led by a qualified teacher and experienced musician, classes explore the world of music through singing, movement, playing and listening to live music. With props such as puppets and scarves to enhance the experience. Due to popular demand, additional classes will be running in 2019, with classes on Wednesday and Friday mornings. For more more information and to book your place, contact Mary on info@jackandjill-music.co.uk
My BaBy can Dance If you and friend come along to one of our classes for a taster session the price will £5 per child! NORMAL PRICE £8! So why don’t you get group of you to come along and have fun fill class with dancing, music and learning! To book on please message me on here or email me on Alexandrambcd@gmail.com. Please make sure you tell me your doing refer a friend offer or you be charged the normal £8 for class)
The Church of the Good Shepherd 15 Murrayfield Avenue, Edinburgh EH12 6AU
Join uS for fun ScottiSh Dance claSSeS for chilDren on SaturDay MorningS
Find out more at www.rscdsedinburgh.org Contact us info@rscdsedinburgh.org
6 Families Edinburgh
Want your child to learn how to dance? Get some exercise? Or perhaps make life-long friends? Our Children’s classes are a great way for young dancers to have fun, make new friends and learn new skills. Our Teachers encourage the children to co-operate and work together as a team in a fun, safe environment. Each week they will help the children improve their skills and increase their knowledge. You’ll be amazed at how quickly your child improves…and we’re not just talking about their new-found skills in dancing. They also grow in self-esteem and enjoy the benefits of improved co-ordination and fitness levels! info@rscds.org Free taster session on Saturday 12th January, 11am at City of Edinburgh Central Library, George IV Bridge (early booking advised, as places are limited) or come along any Saturday in term time from 19th January.
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cluBS&claSSeS DevelopMent through DraMa! The Helen O’Grady Drama Academy prides itself on being a wide community-based drama school. With our unique curriculum, the Academy aims to develop confidence, self-esteem and communication skills. In these days of social networking, texts and emails, children and young people are more likely to connect with each other electronically. Our classes help students enjoy the ability to communicate verbally. Encouraging them to have something to say and ensuring they can put their case over effectively can only lead to increased self esteem. Students can attend our classes from starting school and continue until leaving school, they will gain a sound foundation for life, whatever path they choose as a young adult. Our well thought out, structured drama programme allows each student to be involved in something positive and successful. The varied curriculum, which includes speech, movement, script work, improvisations and theatre productions, is constantly revised and updated. Classes are great fun and non-competitive. Please do get in touch for further information or to book a FREE TASTER SESSION. 0131 667 0939 or 07701 33347 midscot@helenogrady.co.uk www.facebook.com/HelenOGradyMidScotland
inStitut françaiS The Institut français d’Ecosse still has some spots available in its winter term French classes beginning on January 14th. We have also already opened enrolment for our Spring term, offering weekly classes for children and teens at all levels of French mastery, in addition to after-school clubs, holiday exam preparation (all levels, Scottish and English exams), Holiday MiniCamps, and Summer Camps for kids and teens. We also offer a broad selection of courses for adults. Book before April 2nd to benefit from early bird rates. Learn more at www.ifecosse.org.uk and book now by calling 0131 285 6030 or writing us at frenchclasses@ifecosse.org.uk.
Linlithgow Corstorphine Edinburgh South Musselburgh Bonnyrigg Livingston Broxburn Leith City Centre
eDinBurgh young MuSicianS Celebrating its 21st birthday this year, EYM aims to help all children to enjoy music & to realise their individual musical potential, whatever that may be. All teaching is done in groups, aiming to nurture and develop each pupil's innate musicianship. There are currently spaces in P1 Musical Play classes, which aim to develop children's sense of rhythm and pitch, listening skills, coordination and imagination through a variety of activities presented as fun and games. "I'm so glad we found EYM. Many, many thanks for all you've done for us" said Jo, whose two sons attended EYM throughout their primary school years & between them have learned to play recorder, piano, cello & guitar. www.e-y-m.org.uk 0131-226-3392.
Tel: 0131 667 0939 web www.helenogrady.co.uk email midscot@helenogrady.co.uk Facebook https://www.facebook.com/HelenOGradyMidScotland
FREE TRIAL LESSON
reD threaD StuDio Red Thread Studio Edinburgh provides sewing classes, dressmaking courses and Learn to Sew classes in Edinburgh from their beautiful studio in Newington. There are a huge variety of courses, from half day Saturday courses where you can learn the very basics whilst making an item from scratch, to longer dressmaking courses. Some classes are even baby friendly! They also run special children's sewing courses (for children over 8) during summer and Easter holidays, as well as Saturday children's sewing classes. Children over 16 are welcome to come on any of their courses, but if you have a younger child who is interested please get in touch. "Our sewing courses are fun, relaxing and creative with expert tutors and lots of fun!" info@redthreadstudio.co.uk www.redthreadstudio.co.uk
uk learn to Skate at MurrayfielD ice rink Every Sunday 12:00 noon - 1.45pm. Uk Learn to Skate session cost £6.00 admission and skate hire is £1.50 if required.(Quote FE337 for Free Skate Hire to this session during January 2019) So for £7.50 max you get a 45 minutes compulsory group tuition and a 45 minutes practice time. No need to book - Just pay at the door. UK Learn to Skate session runs on a drop in - drop out bases. Session led by Resident Professional Coaches from 12.15pm to 1.00pm. The UK Learn to Skate session is open to children and adults from 5 to 75 years. (it is strongly recommended that children under 8 are accompanied by an adult on the ice).
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MurrayfielD JuniorS are now recruiting Try the fastest team sport in the world! First two weeks are free. Every Tuesday from 4.30pm onwards for ages 5 - 20. Find more information on Facebook: Murrayfield Junior Ice Hockey Club mjihc@gmail.com
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Six Ways to Stay Healthy during the Winter Months By Claire Winter
It’s tough getting you and your family through a long British winter without succumbing to illness somewhere along the way. Here are our top tips for making it through to spring without getting out the tissues! Eat for Immunity
Get Outdoors
Eat food that is rich in vitamins and minerals. Foods high in zinc, like lean meats, poultry, and baked beans can help balance your immune response. Green leafy vegetables like kale and Brussels sprouts are high in Vitamin C, which may also keep you healthier. Family lunches or dinners which include warm winter soups packed full of vegetables or fruit smoothies for breakfast (with some vegetables sneaked in if your kids will let you) are an excellent way to ensure you are all having more than your 5 a day.
Don’t stay cooped up indoors, try something new as a family. Invest in wellies and wet weather gear and get exploring whatever the weather.
Supplement
Make sure adults in your family are getting 8 hours of sleep every night. If you are run down through lack of sleep, you are more susceptible to illness. Getting enough sleep will boost your immune system and help you fend off any nasty colds and illnesses. Sleep also supports healthy brain function and maintenance of your physical health. Toddlers should be getting 11 to 14 hours sleep a day, while pre-schoolers need 10-13 hours. School age children need 9 to 11 hours and teenagers 8 to 10 hours. Make sure your offspring have time away from electronic devices before bed. Having a hot bath and reading book is a great way for all ages to wind down for a restful night’s sleep.
The NHS recommends that all children from the age of 6 months to 5 years are given vitamin supplements with A, C and D in them every day. Please note if your baby/child is having 500ml of formula or more, do not give them vitamin D, as formula milk is fortified with it. You may also be able to get vitamin drops for your baby if you qualify for Healthy Start. (Check eligibility at www.healthystart.nhs.uk). If you give your children a chewable supplement, make sure it is after they eat because some vitamins cannot be absorbed without food. It’s also a good idea for adults and children over 5 years to supplement with Vitamin D during the winter. It’s vital to keep our muscles and bones healthy and is primarily made by our skin's reaction to the sun. During the winter months in the UK, the sun doesn’t contain enough UVB radiation to create it so we must rely on food and supplements. Vitamin D is found in meat, oily fish and eggs. Many nutritional experts recommend everyone taking Vitamin D supplements during the winter; try at least 10micrograms of Vitamin D a day. If you are not sure whether to give your child vitamin supplements always take advice from a medical professional or nutritional expert.
It’s thought that at least 2 million people in the UK suffer from SAD (Seasonal Affective Disorder) which is caused by lack of sunlight and it’s recommended that you should try getting out for at least an hour a day in natural daylight. Midday on a sunny day is a good time to go out as that is when the sun is at its strongest. Using a light box, exercising and talking therapy can help people afflicted with SAD and if you think you or one of your family is affected, then talk to your GP.
Sleep Well
De-Stress Being stressed can make you more likely to catch a cold or illness because it reduces the body’s ability to fight off infection. Regular exercise helps you de-stress and get fitter, whilst meditation can also help you unwind. There are some excellent meditation and relaxation apps available. Headspace for kids focuses on calm, kindness and bedtime (www.headspace.com/kids). Calm (www.calm.com) also provides mindfulness and sleep stories for children of varying ages, whilst www.dreamykid.com has lots of great meditations and visualisations just for children and teens. Yoga sessions or a daily walk are also great ways to help you all wind down.
Wash your Hands Emphasis to all your family members the importance of washing hands regularly. Around 80% of infectious diseases are spread by touch. Teach children to rub the backs of their palms and hands, including their thumbs!
Educational Singing Sessions for preschoolers at Skylark Cafe. 40 Hamilton Place, Stockbridge songcircle.gill@gmail.com 07973 493933
Unique • Fun • Educational 8 Families Edinburgh
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Managing separation with children When couples separate, it is rarely a happy time for anyone, but when children are involved disputes can become difficult. An ideal situation is where couple agree on care arrangements for children, but unfortunately, many disputes about children become the subject of legal action when parties simply cannot reach agreement. On other occasions, one party will raise court proceedings. In these circumstances, a judge, normally a Sheriff, is asked to make a decision in relation to the children. Although this can be a long and s painful process, sometimes it is unavoidable.
Can disputes be resolved without going to court? Yes, there are several other ways that these kinds of disputes can be resolved short of going to court. Parties can, for instance, mediate. This involves the parents having a series of meetings together with a trained family mediator present, which hopefully result in agreement. Separating couples can also appoint appoint solicitors under collaborative law, where the parties and their solicitors work together to achieve a solution that suits everyone including the children. Parents can also appoint an arbitrator to rule on their dispute. This is similar to a court process, but has the advantage that parties can choose their arbitrator and the timetable of the process.
Do children get a say in the matter? Legislation in Scotland says it is generally the case that a child of 12 and over is sufficiently mature to express a view. Judges have to offer children of this age the opportunity to express their view and if the child chooses to give their view, the judge has to take it into account. That does not mean than the judge has to necessarily follow the child’s wishes. Sometimes children’s views are taken by use of a form which the child completes and sends back to the court. Courts can also appoint a child welfare reporter who is a person experienced in child law who will visit the child, often at school, and chat to them about their views. These views and other relevant information will be reported back to the court.
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What’s best for the children? It is generally the view of the courts that in most cases it is in the child’s best interests to grow up having a relationship with both parents. There is evidence to show that where this does not happen, the child can suffer psychological difficulties later on and into their adult life. We find that if parents can remain civil in their dealings with one another, put the needs of the children first and avoid acrimonious confrontations, it makes a difficult situation easier for all involved, and that is especially so for the children. At Gibson Kerr, we are experienced in this kind of work and can advise our clients how matters can be moved forward in the most constructive way. Contact one of our experienced family law solicitors today on 0131 220 9642 or email info@gibsonkerr.co.uk.
Call us on 0131 622 0405
www.gibsonkerr.co.uk
Families Edinburgh 9
We are delighted to bring you this year’s all new and updated
y t r a P y a d h t r i B uide G
Get in touch with someone on the following pages to help you give your child an extra special day. At times like this it’s good to be in the hands of an expert.
The
A-Z of Parties ★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★
A is for Animals. Most children are intrigued by them and enjoy opportunities to get close. B is for Bouncing. Whether on a bouncy castle or at a Trampoline Centre - kids love to bounce!
C is for Ceramics. An ideal choice for arty children, who can decorate pottery animals, mugs, egg cups and more, and have them fired and glazed on-site. D is for Drama and storytelling. Your child can go anywhere their imagination takes them!
E is for Entertainer. Some specialise in magic or dance, others provide all round entertainment tailored to a particular theme, some provide a “special appearance” by a television character and others still focus on party games. F is for Face Painting. A great choice for the younger age group, with truly talented painters and good value for money! G is for Get Dressed Up As a..… Many party providers these days will plan your child’s party around a particular theme, either one from a selection they offer, or one chosen by you. Themes can be pretty much anything you want - from princesses to robots, space to jungles.
J is for Just Dance. Book a dance party!
Q is for Quality. Read reviews and ask other
Choose between ballet, street dance, ceilidhs and more, depending on your child’s taste. Alternatively, opt for a dance-themed party which might include dancing games, action songs, and dance ribbons.
parents.
R is for Rugby. These parties often follow a
K is for Karts. Go Kart Parties are a whole lot
similar format to football parties, and include lots of running around, rugby-related activities, and fun for girls and boys from age 2 upwards.
of fun and suit kids from age 4 to 14. Parties generally build to a big, final race at end the day.
S is Soft Play.
L is for Leisure Centres. Many leisure centres provide great sport, soft play, trampoline or gymnastics parties M is for Music. Often with similar features to
These venues can be hired inclusive of toys, inflatables and ball pits and are a very popular choice for kids of all ages, as most either cater for under 5’s or have a separate area for young children.
T is for Traditional. Remember you can keep
the classes you know and love, music parties are generally suitable for the 0-5 age group who love the mix of music, dance and musical instruments.
it simple. Young children are more than happy with party games, a birthday tea and cake. If you want, you can hire someone experienced to plan and execute the games!
N is for Nature. For kids who like the great
U is for Upside Down. Possibly the state your
outdoors, head to an outdoor venue. Many provide engaging games and activities as well as a venue for birthday tea.
home might be in after a party!
O is for One Stop Shop. Reduce party
H is for HAPPY BIRTHDAY!
stress with a party provider that offers a venue, entertainment and food. Remember to check this out when you are doing your research!
I is for Inflatables. There is nothing that is more
P for Pop Star. The chance to be a pop star -
guaranteed to get a young child smiling than the sight of a bouncy slide and castle at a birthday party! Find a suitable venue to house these inflatables and hire them in!
at least for one day! Parties can off the chance for kids to dress up, get on stage for a photo shoot and then record a song or two in a professional studio. Photos and recordings are usually available to take home.
W is for Weather. Remember not to rely on it! X is for eXtraordinary! Don’t worry, your child’s birthday party will always be eXtraordinary, just like your child!
Y is for Yoga. Want your kids to have a zen experience? Yoga parties often provide a combination of yoga and other forms of party entertainment
Z is ZZZZZZZ. How well everyone will sleep after their amazing party!
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10 Families Edinburgh
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Digital Ninjas – Creative Parties for Kids Unique Tailor Made Children’s Parties with a Tech Twist! Digital Ninjas Children’s birthday parties are a perfect combination of fun and learning that will ensure a birthday party experience like no other! Digital Ninjas offer a fantastic range of children’s birthday party packages from Crime Scene Investigation for budding detectives to Minecraft Quests, Tipi Sleepovers, Lego® Robotics and Wacky Rockets. Our prices include specially themed party bags and birthday party invites. Consistent five star ratings on our Facebook page @digitalninjassco “Just wanted to say thank you for an amazing birthday party – all the kids had a great time! I will certainly be recommending your parties to all parents” For further information call: 0131285 6443 or email: info@digitalninjasscotland.co.uk www.digitalninjasscotland.co.uk ★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★
Cramond Kirk Hall
CeilidhKids
Cramond Kirk Hall is an excellent venue for all sorts of functions - especially children’s parties. There is loads of space to burn off energy or to erect a bouncy castle in the Main Hall. Rooms are available for quiet receptions or wild ceilidhs! For larger functions there is a commercial kitchen, crockery, cutlery and loads of tables and chairs. The Halls are in open parkland with plenty of free parking. Remember, you don't have to arrange it all yourself, let us help you with catering, entertainment and decorations if you choose. Please contact David Haggarty on 0131 312 6911 or hallenquiries@cramondkirk.org.uk to discuss your requirements. Check out our website at www.cramondkirk.org.uk/about-us/cramond-kirk-hall
A ceilidh is a great way to celebrate – if all the guests like to dance! CeilidhKids ceilidhs are especially suited to whole family parties with a mix of generations – under 5s need an adult or older child to partner them; older children and adults can dance together. We will come and lead an hour’s family ceilidh dancing, and then leave the rest of the party to you to eat, drink and be merry. You choose the venue and bring the cake – we bring the music and ideas and help the guests have fun! www.ceilidhkids.com
Tubing Parties at Midlothian Snowsports Centre, Hillend Join us for an exhilarating and unforgettable kid’s party. Ride up the travelator and slide down our purpose built tubing runs on round inflatable doughnuts. It’s fast, fun and exciting! We also offer junior tubing parties on the nursery slope. They are great fun! You can sit, spin, and go backwards, hold on to the person next to you. After an hour of tubing, whatever your style of party, food and drinks are provided in Cafe 360. We even provide free party bags! You can also pre book teas and coffees with biscuits or scones for the adults to enjoy! Please phone us to check availability. Early booking is essential to avoid disappointment. Call 0131 445 4433 for more information or to book your party. All tubers must be at least 4 years old and more than 1m in height.
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Planning a birthday celebration? At the LifeCare centre we love a party! Situated in the heart of Stockbridge, we offer great facilities for the perfect birthday party. Depending on your child’s age and number of guests, there are many options of room sizes available. T: 0131 343 0940 or enquiries@lifecareedinburgh.org.uk LifeCare 2 Cheyne Street Edinburgh EH4 1JB lifecare-edinburgh.org.uk
for ses 1st 4 £1 sion 0o s nly
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Age specific football training for children at walking age - 12 years Birthday Parties available for ages 3 +
For more info contact: 07544 221045 Email: b.robertson@soccerstarts.co.uk
www.soccerstartsfootballacademy.co.uk familiesonline.co.uk
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B Let DNDance create a bespoke dance party for your budding star!
07545 551271 nicky@dndance.co.uk dndance.co.uk Branches in Chesser, Crewe Toll, Kirkliston Leith & Winchburgh
discover the joy of dance
Experience the thrills of tubing ! d unforgettable party For an exhilarating an ee party bag • Fantastic fun • Frt and book now Join in the excitemen rs and over st 1 metre tall All tubers must be at lea
and 4 yea
Call: 0131 445 4433 ski.midlothian.gov.uk ski@midlothian.gov.uk Midlothian Snowsports Centre Hillend, Biggar Road, Edinburgh EH10 7DU
Using your chosen music tracks we plan a mash-up dance routine to present at the end in a mini show. Love Little Mix? A superfan of The Greatest Showman? Into pirates, disco, football or cheerleaders? Whatever your favourite tunes or theme, we've got it covered - we guarantee a party full of smiles! Take advantage of our full party package and use our dance studio - the ideal venue. I’s a ready-made studio that's perfect for dancing plus there’s a separate room to set up the party food. We’ll even provide party invitations and directions to the studio so your guests have all the right details - completely hassle-free! Prices from £145. Min 10, max 28 children. DNStudios, The Basement, 4 Hutchison Terrace, Edinburgh, EH14 1QB 07545 551271 / 0131 443 0753 nicky@dndance.co.uk www.dndance.co.uk ★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★
Monkey Music Monkey Music love doing parties and every event is tailored to suit each occasion. Their parties last for up to an hour and include the same award winning ingredients: musical games, playing instruments and much more. They can provide birthday party invitations and a special birthday gift for your child to help remember their special day with Monkey and your party will be a very special occasion for all your guests! Contact: Abbey Smith – Edinburgh South morningside.pentland@monkeymusic.co.uk 0131 229 4480 Rachel Huggins – Edinburgh North comelybank.corstorphine@monkeymusic.co.uk 0131 556 3070.www.monkeymusic.co.uk
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A Unique Venue Experience in Edinburgh Want an experience to remember? Looking for a fantastic and unique venue for your children's party? At Re-Union Canal Boats you can cruise along the Union Canal from the centre of Edinburgh aboard one of our fabulous wide-beam barges. A fully accessible space carrying 35 passengers we can provide a range of services and materials to meet your needs. Our experienced skipper and crew will do everything they can to ensure you have a safe and enjoyable experience. www.re-union.org.uk info@re-union.org.uk 0131 261 8529 Facebook: reunion.boats Twitter: @ReUnion_Ltd
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TurtleDove Play Cafe TurtleDove Play Cafe is truly unique when it comes to children's birthday parties. Located in Davison Mains, our venue focuses on both the kids and their grown-ups. Whilst the kids are playing, parents are welcome to enjoy our barista-style cafe and we don't charge entry fees for parents who'd like to stay. With dedicated staff to work with you to make your ideas come to life, we can create a personalised party with face painting, character visits and activities. Our exclusive use parties are hugely popular and lots of fun as everyone feels very relaxed and the kids feel like they own the place! Our pirate ship, mini-soft play, imaginary play areas, climbing frame and dressing up box will burn off lots of energy just in time for a scrummy birthday buffet, ice cream and of course, birthday cake. Starting from £90 for 12 children. www.turtledoveplaycafe.co.uk 0131 312 7077
12 Families Edinburgh
email editor@familiesedinburgh.co.uk
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irthday Party Guide Step It Up Dance Fancy throwing an active, inclusive, exciting party for your child this year? Look no further than an award-winning Step It Up Dance party! We are 100% focused on making your child's day as special as possible and love to hear how happy we make our customers, young and old. Here are just a few examples of the feedback we regularly receive from happy party parents: "I just wanted to say thank you so much for the best party ever!" "Thank you for providing such great fun entertainment for a party of hyper kids on a very warm Saturday!" "That's got to be the quickest kids party I've ever attended, it went by in the blink of an eye with no tears, only smiles. I can’t recommend you highly enough to other parents." More details & booking form can be found at www.stepitupdance.co.uk
Birthday parties at Almond Valley are special occasions. As well as all the normal attractions of Almond Valley your special party will enjoy the use of a brightly decorated room that serves as your base for the two hour duration of the party, a choice of delicious party food, party badges and tooters, your own exclusive tractor and trailer ride and a play session in the Morag’s Meadow soft play. The Simple Spread is included in all party packages, containing a variety of simple, uncomplicated food ideally suited for young taste buds. Additional catering options available for adult helpers and Goody Bags for the children. Standard birthday party package costs £10.50 per child, for a minimum of ten children. Almond Valley Heritage Trust, Millfield, Livingston, West Lothian EH54 7AR 01506 414957 www.almondvalley.co.uk
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Kiss the Fish Celebrate in creative style with a crafty party brought to you by Kiss the Fish – Edinburgh’s mobile arts & crafts studio. Choose from a selection of fun party activities – try your hand at making a mosaic mirror, decopatch a funky animal, felt a picture or bag or even learn to sew ….. We’ll supply all the materials and tuition – and ensure that everybody leaves with a masterpiece ! Suitable for ages 5 – 105, our prices start from just £10 per guest and we’re able to attend any venue within the Edinburgh area – call us on 0771 826 7728 or www.kissthefishstudios.com for details.
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Rugbytots To celebrate our 10th birthday, for the month of January, Rugbytots is offering 10% off birthday parties booked for 2019. Our parties are excellent value and led by energetic, fun and passionate coaches, backed up with an array of fantastic parent and child reviews. Games and activities are designed with mass participation in mind, and are suitable for all children between 4 and 7 years old. You don't need to attend our weekly classes to enjoy a Rugbytots party. For further details, please contact Sandra at sandra@rugbytots.co.uk or call 0345 313 3252 “Following a recommendation, I booked my daughter’s 5th birthday party with Rugbytots and it was the best party we’ve had. The kids had an absolute ball and were captivated by the good-humoured coach who had them using their imaginations, taking part in really fun games and activities. All the parents commented on how well run the activities were and how much fun it looked. I wouldn’t hesitate in recommending Rugbytots as a party entertainment provider”. Scott Christie, Edinburgh.
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Families Edinburgh 13
Wow - 2019 already? Time to get this year's birthday party booked with the experts. With now 9 different party ideas, we are sure to have something to suit your child's dreams and your budget. Our NEW Hoverboard, Hot Tub and Silent Disco parties have been increasing popular! Take the hassle out of the party and just get the experts in to sort it for you! Why not check out our friends at the Boxxie.Co too - incredible themed party boxes - perfect to add sparkle to one of our parties or buy a full party in a box if you are on a budget! Find us on Facebook and Instagram! www.ActivityDelivered.com
TimeTwisters Play & Party Centre Your child’s Birthday party is one of the most important days of their year. We specialise in making sure it is an exciting, fun and memorable experience. As Edinburgh’s award winning kids birthday party specialist, we offer the widest choice of parties and options to ensure all guests have “The Greatest Fun in History”. From Soft-Play Parties to Make-A-Bear and Laser-Tag Parties, our party team know what it takes to make your child’s special day extra special. With a TimeTwisters Birthday Party, you know you’re in safe hands and can relax and enjoy the day as much as the children. Full details of all party options, availability and online party booking can be found at www.ttsoftplay.co.uk/parties or call 0131 639 0186 ★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★
My Baby Can Dance Party! Your party should be fun, unique & personalised and so memorable that your friends talk about it for a long time after! Movement to music following. Recommended party age: 1 – 6 Years and following National Child My Baby Can Dance® Managing Leader who will bring everything for a fantastic party including the Music and Equipment. We guarantee that you and your children will have a fantastic time whether they join in or prefer to participate as the mood takes them, there is something for everyone. For more information please contact Alex on alexandrambcd@gmail.com
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Dynamic Earth How about traveling back in time 13.7 billion years to the beginning of our universe and taking an action packed adventure through the life of our planet Earth. Dynamic Earth birthday party packages contain something for kids of all ages. For younger children we have a Storytelling Birthday Party, and for older children we have a fantastic Craft Activity Birthday Party. For children of all ages we offer our ever popular Adventurer Party. Parties are suitable for a minimum of 8 children and a maximum of 20 children. Birthday parties are available every Saturday and Sunday that the attraction is open. 0131 5231273 e - enquiries@dynamicearth.co.uk w - www.dynamicearth.co.uk
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Yoo-Star Ever wondered what it’s like to be a pop star? Wonder no more! Come to Yoo-Star and we guarantee to give you all the thrills you could hope for. Dress up in our glamorous dressing room for your photo-shoot, experience the thrill of being on stage in our funky stage area and enjoy a backstage rider. Then record in our professionally designed studio with a great pedigree, see yourself live on TV, sit in with the engineer as they mix your songs or enjoy the comfort of our VIP lounge and have a professionally designed cover featuring you. Record whatever you like in our professional studio as used by a number of chart topping Scottish acts. We cater for everyone from friends having fun, stag and hen parties to demos for record companies and tracks for worldwide release. Will you get your photo up in our hall of fame? Yoo-Star @ Groove Tunnel 0131 448 2170 www.yoo-star.co.uk ★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★
Visit www.purebrilliantevents.co.uk Contact Bex on 07593 332744 or info@purebrilliantevents.co.uk
14 Families Edinburgh
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Ryze Defy Gravity with Ryze for your birthday party this year! Our state of the art facility will have everyone jumping for joy with excitement, you can soar over our sea of oversized trampolines or leap from above onto our stuntman airbag & much more! Afterwards, relax, or rave, with exclusive use of one of our party rooms. With a dedicated party host there to take the stress out of your day, we will make sure your party is an unforgettable one! Optional extras also available, contact events@ryze.co.uk or call 07739 383561 to book your ultimate birthday experience. #YoureUp! ★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★
The Drama Studio – Themed Children’s Parties Pick a theme and a drama teacher will organise your party. We can include interactive stories, games, music, dancing, sketches quizzes ..... whatever ideas you have we can usually cater for! Some of our most popular themes are – Medieval, Space, Pirates, Witches and Wizards, Fairies, Jungle and Pop Stars – we are very happy to design a party around your child’s special interests. Prices from £90. Any numbers catered for, ages 4 and upwards. Call our party hotline 0131 444 1084. E-mail info@thedramastudio.com Early booking advisable
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irthday Party Guide Enjoyleisure For a birthday party packed full of active fun, you’re sure to have a blast with a party celebration with enjoyleisure! Across East Lothian there are so many party options to choose from: create a splash at a pool party! Hire out Dunbar Leisure Pool for you and your friends or enjoy aquatic fun on one of our aqua-runs. Jump to your heart’s delight on the bouncy castles (or the trampolines at North Berwick Sports Centre). Scale the walls at the Climbing Wall in Tranent. Hire one of the halls for a sporting activity of your choice or exclusively hire Jamboree or Wiggles soft play areas! Better yet, we can do the catering for you! Each of our catering packages can be tailored to suit your needs, so all you need to do is bring the cake! For information about each party option and the catering options available visit www.enjoyleisure.com ★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★
Soccerstarts Soccerstarts Football Academy run brilliant football parties for boys and girls from the ages of 3 years - 12 years. Parties will be lead by Head Coach Bryan Robertson who will run fun football related activities/game's and small sided football matches for your child and their friends. Our special Value package starts of at £30 for 10 children for 1 hour's equipment and coach hire. (advice can be provided on suitable venues for you to book dependent on your numbers) We also are pleased to announce that for 2018 we can also provide these parties in conjunction with World of Football at both the Chesser and Marine Drive sites with further details provided on request For more details please email b.robertson@soccerstarts.co.uk or text Bryan on 07544221045 for initial enquiries.
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Pure Brilliant Events is a specialist face painting and balloon modelling company who also offer glitter tattoos, balloon displays and decoration, popcorn and candy floss machines and now mascots and bouncy castles too! We cover all of Edinburgh and the Lothians and are happy to come to your local community centre, leisure centre or even your home. You will be in safe hands with our highly trained team who are also Disclosure Scotland checked and fully insured. We offer amazing rates, starting from just £35 per hour and there are fantastic savings to be had with our Party Package deals which are available to view on our website – www.purebrilliantevents.co.uk For enquiries, contact Bex on 07593332744 or info@purebrilliantevents.co.uk ★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★
Cramond Kirk Hall Rooms All Sizes for Parties & Events
Call 0131 312 6911 or 07979 795331 hallenquiries@cramondkirk.org.uk
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Spend your Special day with us here at Conifox Adventure Park Only Party Come along for the day and enjoy full use of our fantastic adventure park facilities You are more than welcome to bring along your own picnic and make use of our picnic benches throughout the grounds. Prices on this package vary, depending on numbers. Adventure Park & Bistro Party Come along for the day and enjoy full use of our fantastic adventure park facilities. Then come over and join us in our Bistro, where our chef will prepare lunch for you and your friends in your own private birthday room to celebrate. Choose from Freshly baked Margherita Pizza, Grilled Angus Beef Burger or a Conifox Hot Dog all served with fries, fruit cordial and something nice and sweet. Our Birthday Party time is 1.30pm-3.30pm in the Adventure Park and 3.30pm-4.30pm in the Bistro £14.95 per child www.conifox.co.uk ★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★
Wishing Tree Play Cafe 'Wishing Tree Play Cafe' in Musselburgh will provide everything you need for a party to remember in our wonderful woodland themed play café. Our parties include: • 1 Hour in the play area & 1 hour in the party room • Themed table and wall decorations • Delicious healthy food • Unlimited diluting juice • Balloons, music and party lights Our wonderful staff will bend over backwards to give your child a memorable party, leaving you and the other parents free to catch up and enjoy our delicious coffee, snacks and scrumptious cakes. We are consistently rated 5 stars from our customers for our parties and events!
Quote Families edinburgh for a 10% discount on parties booked by the end of January 2019. Get in touch to find out about party themes and exclusive use parties. 0131 665 1588 or book via our Facebook page or www.wishingtreeplaycafe.com
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Drama Parties – An adventure of the imagination! Parties best for ages: 3-6 years Monkey Drama will take the children on an hourlong themed drama session at The Monkey Hoose, which will be filled with drama, imagination, energy and fun from beginning to end; including lots of props, music and role play! This is followed by food and cake in the party room. Parties include: • invites • theme related party games and prizes • certificate & stickers for all children • Special Monkey Drama gift bag filled with goodies for the birthday child. If you would like us to come to you, we can come to a venue of your choice and provide you with an hour long Monkey Drama adventure. Packages for up to 20 or 25 kids. Prices from £150. Party themes include A Day at the Zoo, Superhero’s, Pirates, Space and The Hidden Rainbow. Packages from £160 for 15 children. Bespoke themes can be arranged at an extra cost if you choose the Full Monkey Package at the Monkey Hoose. Contact Alana, 07736 298013 alana@monkeydrama.co.uk www.monkeydrama.co.uk, The Monkey Hoose, 3 Kinsgknowe Park, EH14 2JQ
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An award winning storytelling company who delight in taking children’s imaginations on a magical journey. Children join us on a storytelling adventure using rhymes, songs, creative games, drama and puppets to bring the story to life. The children are given little riddles and have to guess what’s 'in the bag'? Each game, activity and song is tied into the theme and builds into one big story. A wonderful story unfolds and the children come on the magical adventure with us. "Mia's party was far and away the best party we've ever had (or been to for that matter) since having the girls 8 years ago' Joelle McKinlay www.itsinthebagparties.co.uk facebook.com/itsinthebagparties Lorna 07967348661
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Book today! email Alex on alexandrambcd@gmail.com
Call on: 07585 227922
www.mybabycandance.com 16 Families Edinburgh
email editor@familiesedinburgh.co.uk
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Doodles Doodles children’s pottery painting parties suit all ages from little ones to teenagers (and even adults too). They cost £13.50 a head. This means the children can choose one item each form a selection of wee ornamental figures or a mug /bowl/plate . We allow up to 2 hours for older children’s and for young children we would recommend a shorter time of 1.5 hours. Usually we divide the time between painting first (around 45mins-1.5 hours depending on the group) followed by a birthday tea. We don't supply food but we have (complimentary) teas or coffees and juice or water for children. We provide a wee bowl of chocs to keep them going while they paint. Most people bring along a selection of finger foods, treats and a cake. We also have plenty of plates/platters/bowls for nibbles, a knife to cut cake, matches etc. If you would like to go ahead with the booking then please call us on 0131 229 1399 to discuss your plans. ★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★
Party Bag Ideas Opinion with the grown ups is definitely divided over party bags. Kids, however, pretty much have the same opinion - you can’t leave a party without one! So, if you are going to the effort try some of these budget friendly suggestions: • Books: It’s not hard to get hold of a pack of quite good children’s books from discount book stores for about £1-£2 per book. • Personalisied Biscuits / Cupcakes: Buy or bake some gingerbread men or cupcakes and ice with the name of each party guest for them to take home. • Flowerpots and packets of seeds / seedlings: With spring coming up why not encourage your guests to get a little green fingered with a small packet of flower seeds or some seedlings and a cheap flower pot. Even better, get them to decorate the pot and plant it up as a party activity. • Buy bumper packs of sweets and tie a few in cellophane with a pretty ribbon. • Keep it traditional with party blowers, balloons and bubbles always bring a smile to children's faces, and most supermarkets tend to have a good selection of party bag toys on special offer. • Children love sock pockets, so get them to make their own. Buy some cheap socks and colourful bits and pieces to decorate them with and you have a fun activity and another memento for their party bag. • Most kids love sticky things and will be thrilled by a sheet or two of some funky stickers to take home.
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irthday Party Guide
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Families Edinburgh 17
How to Have your
Happiest Year Ever By Dr Andy Cope
Here are some quirky and fun tips taken from the science of positive psychology that will help your family towards the happiest year yet! Get Huggy
A year of Experiences
Christmas and New Year is a time for family and friends and, chances are, you will have been giving and receiving more hugs than usual in the last few weeks. So how about continuing the hugging habit all year and using this scientific fact that might just change your life: apparently, the average hug lasts 2.1 seconds. So a quick one…two… and it’s done and dusted. However, for the love to really transfer a hug has to last 7 seconds or longer. So a top hugging tip is to treat the ones you love to the full 7 seconds. Obviously, don’t count out loud as that spoils the effect, and they might start wriggling after 4 or 5 seconds – but a 7 second hug says “I love you.” Everyone wins. Hugging releases oxytocin (a happy chemical) in you and the one you’re hugging.
Get everyone in your family to write an early Christmas list for December 2019. The exact question is this: What 20 things would you would like for Christmas? That aren’t things. Share the ideas and schedule them to actually happen (where you can) in 2019.
Be a Hygge Spotter The Danes have a word – hygee (pronounced ‘hoo-ga’) – that has no direct translation in English. The closest I can give you is ‘comfort.’ For me hoo-ga is sitting by an open fire, drinking hot chocolate, while a storm rages outside. And hoo-ga also being wrapped up snug and warmly on a snowy walk. Hoo-go is also sharing a tub of Quality Street while watching a family movie you’ve watched many times before. Work out what your hoo-ga moments are, and then get good at spotting them, all year round. This is linked with mindfulness and improves your happiness by enabling you to better appreciate more wonderful moments.
Play As we grow up, we get weighed down with responsibilities and life can lose its lustre. Stop seeing yourself as a ‘responsible adult’ and start being an ‘inspirational adult.’ Rewind to when you were age 6, a time when everything was new and exciting. Start jumping in puddles and playing on the swings… Your children will love it!
Celebrate What Hasn’t Happened Have you ever asked yourself, what hasn’t happened that I didn’t want that I haven’t celebrated? Feel free to read that line again. And again. And again? Sadly, unless you’re a black belt happiness ninja your children don’t sit in a maths lesson thinking how lucky they are to have a nice school and a wonderful teacher. They curse because they have to remember stuff. And when you’re stuck in traffic you don’t sit there marvelling at the sunglasses compartment and cup holders, you mutter and swear under your breath at the delay. The opposite of savouring good experiences is to notice the many things that could have gone badly, but didn’t. Hence the question again - what hasn’t happened that you didn’t want that you haven’t celebrated? Here’s my list for today (and it’s only 7am): I woke up and didn’t have toothache. My laptop isn’t broken. I haven’t got measles. My children aren’t poorly. I haven’t just stubbed my toe, we haven’t run out of Cheerios, there hasn’t been an earthquake and I haven’t been bitten by a zombie. I mean, what a fabulous start to the day. None of those bad things has happened! Of course, it’s hard to notice something that didn’t happen. But it’s helpful to sometimes switch your thinking to all the bad things that could have happened, but didn’t. And then celebrating the positive result. Share it with your children and get them to think of examples. The chances are theirs will be much more creative than yours! Dr Andy Cope is a positive psychologist and bestselling author. His latest book Diary of a Brilliant Kid is available now on Amazon. For more information, visit www.artofbrilliance.co.uk
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Top Tips to Turn Your Family into Eco-Warriors By Isabel Thomas
Helping to save the planet is easier than you think. And the whole family can get involved! Go Herbivore for a Day
Party for the Planet
When it comes to gobbling up resources, meaty meals are the planet’s number one enemy. Each year, 7.6 billion humans chomp their way through meat from an amazing 65 billion animals. Raising these animals – and getting them from farm to fork – puts enormous pressure on the planet’s resources and is a big source of greenhouse gases. Avoid meat (and cheese) for just 1 day a week, and you could make a bigger impact than taking your family car off the road for 5 WEEKS.
Birthdays only come once a year, so most party goods are disposable. Wrapping paper, cards, decorations, paper plates and napkins, plastic cups and cutlery are all designed to be used for a few hours and thrown away. It doesn’t have to be this way. Send invitations and thank you notes by email, make your own decorations, and ban napkins – provide a bowl of soapy water and a towel instead.
Do Less Washing Up You hate it, and the planet hates it too! Happily, putting less effort into doing the dishes is a win-win situation. An average family washing up by hand uses around three sinks full of water per day 10 % of all their daily water. It’s possible to use much less if you avoid wasteful habits, like running the hot tap to rinse dishes. If your family uses a dishwasher, you’ll be VERY pleased to hear they can be kinder to the planet – as long as you don’t rinse the dishes first.
Ban Baths One of the top ways to cut the volume of greenhouse gases our houses belch is to reduce the amount of water we heat up at home. Skipping even 1 bath a week can make a BIG difference. If you already prefer showers, don’t be too smug. Fast-flowing and rainfall shower heads use up to 17 litres of water per minute, meaning that an average 8 minute shower can use almost double the energy and water of a bath! To make showers eco-friendly, get out after 5 minutes.
Lose your Bottle In the minute it took you to read this far, one MILLION plastic bottles have been bought, beginning a journey that all-too-often ends in the stomachs of zooplankton, fish, albatross chicks, whales and seals. So, what can your family do? Invest in bottles that are easy to clean and reuse. Fill up before you go out for the day, and while you’re on the move – look out for water fountains or ask at a café or restaurant. If you find yourself filling up your water bottle in a coffee shop while the adults around you clutch disposable coffee cups with disposable plastic lids, be sure to bring out your best hard stares.
Eat Ugly Food Shockingly, a THIRD of the food produced every year gets thrown away. The waste happens in many different places – on farms, where crops that don’t look perfect are left to rot; in supermarkets, where ‘ugly’ fruit and veg aren’t put out on display or are left on the shelves by shoppers; and in our homes, where food is forgotten at the back of the fridge until it’s too mouldy and disgusting to eat. Play this game in the supermarket – who can track down (and take home) the strangest looking fruit and veg? No item is too blemished, big, small or gnarly – if they’re on the shelf, they’re safe to eat. Give them a home, so they don’t get thrown away – they’ll still taste delicious!
Plan a Rubbish Day Out Imagine if your family stopped putting the bins out and stored all your rubbish at home instead. After a year, you’d be wading through more than a TONNE of packaging and food waste – the average for households in the UK. We’re lucky that our waste gets taken away every week or every fortnight – but it means we never get to see how much we really produce. So find out where your garbage goes once you’ve waved goodbye to the bin lorry. Many landfill and recycling sites offer free tours for individuals or groups. Once your family has seen the scale of a stinking landfill site, they’ll be inspired to reduce, reuse and recycle like never before. Plus your house will look REALLY tidy in comparison!
Don’t Rush to Flush! Around a third of the water we use at home goes straight down the toilet! Research has shown that flushing less often could reduce our water usage and bills much more quickly than turning off the tap while brushing our teeth, or even taking shorter showers. ‘If it’s yellow, let it mellow’ is backed by science! Even easier is encouraging your family to take their first wee of the day in the shower – the focus of recent campaigns in Brazil and the UK. Doing just one daily wee in the shower could save 2,500 litres of water in a year – enough to fill a hot tub! (Though we definitely don’t recommend that – hot tubs are another eco-baddie!) Isabel Thomas is the author of This Book is Not Rubbish: 50 Ways to Ditch Plastic, Reduce Rubbish and Save the World, out now in paperback from Wren & Rook, price £6.99.
TUTU TOTS A fantastic fun class for tiny twirlers from the age of 2 with a participating adult. Drop in classes. No term commitment. Tutu provided. Check out or website for full range of classes at our North Edinburgh Dance Studio
Waterfront Dance Studio Dancing Fun For Everyone!
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Out&About While every care has been taken to compile the OUT AND ABOUT section please remember that this magazine is printed weeks ahead of some of the events. PLEASE call and check events with the venue to avoid any disappointment before setting out. If you have any events you would like listed free in this section please email them to editor@familiesedinburgh.co.uk 13 January Postcard Portraits (Ages 6+) Scottish National Portrait Gallery FREE. Pick your postcards, find the portraits and create your own personal masterpieces. For Ages 6+ but younger siblings welcome too.
JANUARY 7 January BYOB: Bring Your Own Baby/Bump (Ages 0-1) Venue varies. See website for details. www.nationalgalleries.org Tours: 10.15am, 11am & 11.35am FREE. Monthly informal chats in the gallery for grown-ups with their wee-est ones.
10 January storytime 10:30 - 11:00am. Central Children’s Library. Free, drop-in Come to our friendly and fun Thursday mornings picture books storytime readings in the fantastic Children’s Library on George IV Bridge. Join the library for free with parental ID, and borrow up to 12 stories to read at home. For children ages 3 - 5 and their parents/carers
7 - 11 January teeny tiny toddler Fest From galaxies to stars, spacemen to aliens, children aged 0-5 years will be able to discover outer space with fun-filled workshops and hands-on entertainment. Camera Obscura and World of Illusions has also teamed up with a range of exciting partners, making 2019 the biggest event yet. The fabulous Mess Around Edinburgh and their multi-sensory messy play sessions will be available as well as The Young Engineers, who provide educational fun within science and engineering. Kids will also be able to learn about rockets and outer space with Fun Scientists, get creative with the RSPB, learn about communicating with The University of Edinburgh and climb inside a giant cell with UV torches with Cancer Research UK. Firm favourites from previous years will be returning, including the Cloud Factory and crawl through kaleidoscopes as well as a chance to test your reaction time and grab a cuddle with Cameron, the friendly Camera Obscura bear, who’s had a special spaceman make-over! A visit to Teeny Tiny Toddler Fest will include all the five-star attraction has to offer, with over 100 interactive exhibits to enjoy, suitable for all ages. Tickets are on sale now and available through Camera Obscura & World of Illusions website.
20 Families Edinburgh
13 January Sunday Funday at the Yard Every Sunday from 10am to 4pm. All families can come and play - your chance to experience The Yard and support our services. Outside, we have a stream, sandpit, bikes, trikes and even our own working traffic lights. Inside, you can get messy in our art room, dress up and have fun on the soft play. Each child over the age of one pays just £6 for two hours of play - there's fun for all ages. We allow two adults per child - any additional adults are charged £1 each. Book online now at www.theyardscotland.org.uk. Please note, bookings are non-refundable and nontransferable.
13 January Filmhouse Juniors Films for a younger audience, weekly on Sundays at 11am. Tickets cost £4.50 (£5.50 for 3D screenings) per person, big or small! For these shows we choose to screen dubbed versions where these are available, but some films will be in their original language with subtitles – these are marked on individual film descriptions. Please note: although we normally don't approve of people talking during screenings, these shows are primarily for kids, so grown-ups should expect some noise! www.filmhousecinema.com
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15 January tiny tales: Buccaneers Ahoy! Scottish Storytelling Centre, High Street, Edinburgh 10am & 11.30am (40mins). £5 per child. 1-3yrs Jump aboard and join our pirate crew, led by storyteller Beth Hamilton-Cardus - we'll be finding treasure, facing storms and running away from tiny witches! A multisensory and thoroughly interactive storytelling session, with songs, props and a pretty loose take on a Fife folk tale. ©Faisal Aziz
16 January Lego 18:00 - 19:30pm. Central Children’s Library. Free, drop-in Come to our friendly and fun fortnightly Wednesday evening library Lego sessions. Build castles, create fantastic landscapes and creatures, and make Lego stories! Join the library for free with parental ID, and borrow books to enjoy at home. For children ages 7-11 and their parents/carers. 17 January storytime 10:30 - 11:00am. Central Children’s Library. Free, drop-in Come to our friendly and fun Thursday mornings picture books storytime readings in the fantastic Children’s Library on George IV Bridge. Join the library for free with parental ID, and borrow up to 12 stories to read at home. For children ages 3 - 5 and their parents/carers 19 January Walk, talk, Make (Ages 2-5) Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art 11-12:30. FREE. Outdoor explorations in the grassy grounds of Modern One and Two. Wear wellies and dress for the weather!
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Out&About 19 January science saturday National Museum of Scotland, Chambers Street 12:00 - 16:00 In January we welcome the Science Museum’s blockbuster Robots exhibition to the National Museum of Scotland. From early mechanised human forms to today’s cuttingedge technology, this major exhibition reveals our 500-year quest to make machines human. Our Science Saturday in January will be all about robots, coding, and artificial intelligence and there will be plenty of opportunities to get hands-on with some modern robots of all shapes and sizes! We will be joined by teams from world-class robotics organisations from Edinburgh and across Scotland. Sponsored by ScottishPower Foundation 24 January storytime 10:30 - 11:00am Central Children’s Library. Free, drop-in Come to our friendly and fun Thursday mornings picture books storytime readings in the fantastic Children’s Library on George IV Bridge. Join the library for free with parental ID, and borrow up to 12 stories to read at home. For children ages 3 - 5 and their parents/carers 26 January Family Art tours (Ages 6+) Venue varies, see website for venue details. 11-11:45. FREE.
30 January Lego 18:00 - 19:30pm Central Children’s Library. Free, drop-in
3 February Filmhouse Juniors Films for a younger audience, weekly on Sundays at 11am.
Come to our friendly and fun fortnightly Wednesday evening library Lego sessions. Build castles, create fantastic landscapes and creatures, and make Lego stories! Join the library for free with parental ID, and borrow books to enjoy at home. For children ages 7-11 and their parents/carers.
Tickets cost £4.50 (£5.50 for 3D screenings) per person, big or small! For these shows we choose to screen dubbed versions where these are available, but some films will be in their original language with subtitles – these are marked on individual film descriptions. Please note: although we normally don't approve of people talking during screenings, these shows are primarily for kids, so grown-ups should expect some noise! www.filmhousecinema.com
31 January storytime 10:30 - 11:00am Central Children’s Library. Free, drop-in Come to our friendly and fun Thursday mornings picture books storytime readings in the fantastic Children’s Library on George IV Bridge. Join the library for free with parental ID, and borrow up to 12 stories to read at home. For children ages 3 - 5 and their parents/carers
FEBRUARY 2 February Wee treasures (Ages 2-5) Scottish National Portrait Gallery FREE. Multisensory storytelling in the gallery, inspired by a different painting each month. 4 February BYOB: Bring Your Own Baby/Bump (Ages 0-1) Venue varies. See website for details. www.nationalgalleries.org
Short, interactive, creative tours; the perfect introduction to art for your whole family. BSL interpreted. 26 January Family Ceilidh Scottish Storytelling Centre, High Street, Edinburgh 2.30pm – 4pm.£5 (£4.50 SCS). All Ages
Tours: 10.15am, 11am & 11.35am FREE. Monthly informal chats in the gallery for grown-ups with their wee-est ones.
Come with family and friends to dance well-known Scottish dances and sing well-known songs. All the dances will be called and there will be easier circles for the littler ones. A fun introduction to sociable dancing with live music and some stories too. Part of Scotland’s Winter Festivals celebrations.
5 February Open studio: Make an Impression (Ages 1-3) Scottish National Portrait Gallery Drop in: 10.30am-12:30pm FREE. Messy, open, art-making mornings. Bring a change of clothes! 6 - 9 February Cat in the Hat King’s Theatre, Edinburgh 3 February sunday Funday at the Yard Every Sunday from 10am to 4pm. All families can come and play - your chance to experience The Yard and support our services. Outside, we have a stream, sandpit, bikes, trikes and even our own working traffic lights. Inside, you can get messy in our art room, dress up and have fun on the soft play. Each child over the age of one pays just £6 for two hours of play - there's fun for all ages. We allow two adults per child - any additional adults are charged £1 each. Book online now at www.theyardscotland.org.uk. Please note, bookings are non-refundable and nontransferable.
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When the Cat in the Hat steps onto the mat, Sally an her brother are in for a rollercoaster ride of havoc and mayhem! For ages 4+ 7 February storytime 10:30 - 11:00am Central Children’s Library. Free, drop-in Come to our friendly and fun Thursday mornings picture books storytime readings in the fantastic Children’s Library on George IV Bridge. Join the library for free with parental ID, and borrow up to 12 stories to read at home. For children ages 3 - 5 and their parents/carers
Families Edinburgh 21
Out&About 12 feBruary tiny tales: Bear Blethers Scottish Storytelling Centre, High Street, Edinburgh, 10am & 11.30am (40mins). £5 per child. 1-3yrs Look out! There are bears about. Visit the house of the bears with Goldilocks, meet a brave marmot, help little bear go to sleep and venture on a bear hunt. Join Julie Bannatyne for a fun morning of action songs and stories.
9 February Make a Masterpiece Palace of Holyroodhouse and The Queens Gallery All activities free with your ticket. Find out more at www.rct.uk/whatson Visit The Queen’s Gallery and explore the Charles II exhibition to take home your own masterpiece with artist Gemma Coyle.
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9 - 17 February February Half term at the National Museum of scotland 11 - 4pm. Free. Drop in National Museum of Scotland, Chambers Street, Edinburgh Join us for a week of activities inspired by our new East Asia and Ancient Egypt galleries and our Robots exhibition. 9 - 18 February First tingles of spring Almond Valley Heritage Centre, Millfield, Livingston It might be chilly outside, but if you look carefully there are all sorts of signs that spring is on its way. After braving the spring spotter's trail, have fun in the warmth of the museum, planting seeds, building nests, and joining in other crafts to prepare for the year to come. 10 February Postcard Portraits (Ages 6+) Scottish National Portrait Gallery FREE. Pick your postcards, find the portraits and create your own personal masterpieces. For Ages 6+ but younger siblings welcome too.
12 February Open Morning Morrison’s Academy is a lively and nurturing independent school in the heart of Perthshire. Our experiential approach blends digital technology, rich classroom settings, and outdoor learning in our local environment to create a personalised education for every child. The same friendly and engaging ethos that allows our three- and four-year olds to flourish also encouraged our National 5, Higher, and Advanced Higher students to achieve their best SQA results on recent record last year. Come and meet us and see for yourself how our passion for learning inspires curiosity and encourages every child to strive for their highest. Register online at morrisonsacademy.org Places available from August 2019 or earlier by arrangement. 12 & 14 February Wonder tales Scottish Storytelling Centre, High Street, Edinburgh 2pm – 4pm.Free (ticketed). All Ages
Enqui now f re summ or e space r s
Spring stories and spontaneous sounds for all the family under the backdrop of new paintings by John Slavin. Come and listen or bring a turn yourself to celebrate the wonder tales of Scottish Traveller Duncan Williamson. 11 - 15 February Play with Portraits! 2-4pm. Scottish National Portrait Gallery. Free All Ages. Join us this half-term for fun, hands-on (and sometimes messy!) art-making inspired by some of the techniques in the BP Portrait Award 2018 exhibition. 11 - 17 February February Half term at Palace of Holyroodhouse Start your half term visit with our interactive family multimedia guide, then pop into our new Family Room to dress up and explore our activities. All activities free with admission price.
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Out&About 13 February Lego 18:00 - 19:30pm. Central Children’s Library. Free, drop-in Come to our friendly and fun fortnightly Wednesday evening library Lego sessions. Build castles, create fantastic landscapes and creatures, and make Lego stories! Join the library for free with parental ID, and borrow books to enjoy at home. For children ages 7-11 and their parents/carers. 14 February storytime 10:30 - 11:00am. Central Children’s Library. Free, drop-in Come to our friendly and fun Thursday mornings picture books storytime readings in the fantastic Children’s Library on George IV Bridge. Join the library for free with parental ID, and borrow up to 12 stories to read at home. For children ages 3 - 5 and their parents/carers
16 February the stolen Dragon Adventure Scottish Storytelling Centre, High Street, Edinburgh 11am – 11.50am. £5 per child for ages 4+ Join Adventuretellers Brooke Conway and Hannah Mathieson on a story-quest to save the golden dragon and her newly laid eggs from the grasps of a lonely wizard. Together you will conquer fears and face mystical characters, travelling through jungles, enchanted forests, lagoons and snow storms ‘til you reach the wizard’s ruined tower in the snowy mountains. Can you save the dragon, or will we be trapped in an eternal winter forever?
15 February Makin a Brew Scottish Storytelling Centre, High Street, Edinburgh 11am (1hr)). £5 per child. All Ages Musician Gica Loening & storyteller Claire McNicol share a mix of songs, rhymes, music and stories aimed at children under five with older siblings welcome. Gica and Claire have been working with children and parents in Early Years Centres in North Edinburgh and Musselburgh over the last four years and are delighted to recreate some of the MAB magic in the lovely Storytelling Court! Snowdrops may well feature as we welcome the spring!
21 February storytime 10:30 - 11:00am. Central Children’s Library. Free, drop-in Come to our friendly and fun Thursday mornings picture books storytime readings in the fantastic Children’s Library on George IV Bridge. Join the library for free with parental ID, and borrow up to 12 stories to read at home. For children ages 3 - 5 and their parents/carers 23 February Family Art tours (Ages 6+) Venue varies, see website for venue details 11-11:45. FREE. Short, interactive, creative tours; the perfect introduction to art for your whole family. BSL interpreted. 27 February Lego 18:00 - 19:30pm. Central Children’s Library. Free, drop-in Come to our friendly and fun fortnightly Wednesday evening library Lego sessions. Build castles, create fantastic landscapes and creatures, and make Lego stories! Join the library for free with parental ID, and borrow books to enjoy at home. For children ages 7-11 and their parents/carers. 28 February storytime 10:30 - 11:00am. Central Children’s Library. Free, drop-in
16 February Walk, talk, Make (Ages 2-5) Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art 11-12:30. FREE. Outdoor explorations in the grassy grounds of Modern One and Two. Wear wellies and dress for the weather!
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Come to our friendly and fun Thursday mornings picture books storytime readings in the fantastic Children’s Library on George IV Bridge. Join the library for free with parental ID, and borrow up to 12 stories to read at home. For children ages 3 - 5 and their parents/carers
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Families Edinburgh is part of Families Print Ltd, a franchise company. All franchised magazines in the group are independently owned and operated under licence. Families is a registered trademark of LCMB Ltd, Remenham House, Regatta Place, Marlow Road, Bourne End, Bucks SL8 5TD. The contents of Families Edinburgh are fully protected by copyright and none of the editorial or photographic matter may be reproduced in any form without prior consent of Families Edinburgh. Every care is taken in the preparation of this magazine, but the franchise company, Families Print Ltd and LCMB Ltd cannot be held responsible for the claims of advertisers nor for the accuracy of the contents, or any consequence thereof.