Issuu

EE FR

Inco rporating Perth & Kinross

the really useful magazine and website for families in the fife region Issue 31 • May/June 2015

www.familiesfife.co.uk

decide Party You what makes a politics perfect party

Also including:

What’s on, reviews, local news and updates Pick up your copy in…

Dunfermline  Glenrothes  Kirkcaldy  Perth  Kinross  Cupar  St Andrews or a village in between

Something for all the Family

entral and West Fife Show, will be held on Saturday 6th June with a strong focus on Food for Fife. The show will allow the public to see a variety of animals including dairy and beef cattle, sheep, poultry, Clydesdale horses, ponies and show jumping. There will be food demonstrations and competitions and the Food and Craft tent will also showcase local crafts and a variety of Scottish food producers. For children there will be storytelling and the Glasgow Science Centre will be attending with their bodyworks on tour exhibition. If the entertainment in the main ring isn’t for you then there is still plenty to see such as tug of war, highland dancing, vintage

tractors and a variety of trade stands featuring everything from tractors to toys. The show is also holding a Companion Dog Show, with classes ranging from pedigree puppies through to the waggiest tail. Entries are taken from 1.30pm on the day with judging starting at 2pm. The show is held at Hilton Farm, near Kelty with kind permission of the Thomson Family. West Fife Show is on Saturday 6th June 9am – 5pm at Hilton Farm, Kelty, KY4 0HF Admission Fees – Adults £8 · OAPs £4 · Children under 14 FREE· FREE PARKING.  For further information on the show please log on to www.westfifeshow.com

Contents

Inco rporating Perth & Kinross 3

Welcome to Families Fife

Local news and updates Comrie croft hosts big bike event

Parties to love and hate With party ideas from local party professionals

8 Education and Childcare Updates and news 9

Birth, Baby and Beyond Bonnie Ewan shares mothers’ experiences of hypnobirthing

Clubs and classes

Out and About Your guide to what’s on locally

Editor: Susan Kirkwood, editor@familiesfife.co.uk Tel: 01383 735938 or 07734 289 143 Design: White Creative www.whitecreativecompany.co.uk Circulation: 13,000 copies printed. Distributed free of charge throughout Fife, Perth and Kinross by kind permission of Fife Libraries, Fife Leisure Centres, antenatal clinics, health visitors, surgeries, community use schools, Theatres in Fife and Perth, places of historic interest, local attractions, selected shops and playgroups and play centres. Print: J Thomson. Due care was taken to source print and other services required to produce this magazine from within the local area.

NEXT ISSUE: July - Aug 2015. Summer edition. Booking deadline: 05 June 2015. Out 22 June 2015.

Families Fife© is a part of a larger group of magazines headed by Families SW London©. All franchised magazines are independently owned and operated under license. We take every care preparing this magazine, but the publishers and distributors cannot be held responsible for the claims of advertisers nor for the accuracy of the contents nor for any consequences. Any original materials submitted for publication are sent at owner’s own risk and, while every care is taken, neither Families nor its agents accept liability for loss or damage.

2 | Families Fife Issue 31

www.familiesfife.co.uk

his could be the last time you hear from me… For quite a few issues I have continued to run Families whilst working elsewhere [in a top secret, mysterious other role… ] This double agency has finally taken its toll and I can no longer do both whilst

still remembering the milk money, helping on the PTA, running a small laundry and managing the emotions of two energetic under 10s. Thus it is with heavy heart that I have decided to give up Families. It is a shame, but I do want the magazine to live and

Opportunity Knocks! Be your own boss, work from home, choose hours to suit you...

ound too good to be true? It isn’t. Families Fife magazine franchise is for sale. If you love the idea of having your own business, then this could be just the opportunity you are looking for. Running a Families franchise puts you at the heart of your community. Use your contacts to make new connections, find out what’s on locally and use your local knowledge to let other parents know what’s on offer. Operating your own franchise business has lots to recommend it. You can choose your own hours, work from home, set your own holidays and dictate your income level. To successfully run a Families franchise you need to be confident on the telephone

as you’ll be selling advertising and answering sales enquiries. It also helps to be interested in children and family issues and local news and happenings. You’ll get a rewarding career and will be involved in all aspects of running a business from sales and marketing to accounts and invoicing, distribution to networking - social networking! As a Families franchisee you’ll also run your own area of a national website and have 40 other editors to chat with and bounce ideas off. Sound interesting?  To learn more and for pricing details (business is keenly priced for a quick private sale), email: editor@familiesfife.co.uk or call Susan on 07734 289143.

Never baked before?

 Call Susan on

07734 289 143 to advertise here

www.familiesfife.co.uk

Come and try one of the four classes we offer, it’s easy and fun. A day out baking delicious breads in a small group with plenty to taste and to take home. For the baking calendar, class details, gift vouchers and recipes see our website www.breadinfife.co.uk Wednesdays & Saturdays 10.00 till 16.00 • Freuchie • Cost £75 For more information Call: 01337 858031 or email: baking@breadinfife.co.uk

continue to prosper without me so if you think you have what it takes to run Families… then do get in touch. After all, if I can do, it how hard can it be?  Susan Kirkwood, Editor

Start your child early with Kumon

our local Kumon Study Centre offers individualised maths and English study programmes for all ages and abilities. The sooner children begin studying the Kumon programme, the earlier they can start developing skills to gain the greatest cumulative benefit. A Kumon student is progressed based on their current ability and not their age, though Kumon believes that every child has unlimited potential and can ultimately

tackle advanced work through well-paced and individualised instruction. Younger children can also practise the pencil skills of holding and using a pencil with our colourful pencil skills worksheets. Kumon develops children through the acquisition of independent learning skills, rather than teaching in the conventional sense. As soon as you feel your family is ready to make the commitment to longterm study, Kumon will be ready to help you achieve your goal. 

Start their future today At Kumon maths and English study centres, your little one can benefit from tailored developmental activities involving numbers and letters to encourage a long-lasting enthusiasm for learning. Contact your local Instructor for a free assessment. Glenrothes Study Centre Lesley Shaw 01383 822 814 Classes on Mondays and Thursdays 3.15pm - 5.15pm

St Andrews Study Centre Christine Proudfoot 0131 618 2315 Classes on Tuesdays, Thursdays 3.30pm - 5.30pm and Saturdays 9.15am - 11.15am

kumon.co.uk Fees vary. Please refer to your local study centre.

Issue 31 Families Fife | 3

News: Who, What, Where, When…

Cream o’ the Croft

The Soukar Tartan D

Scotland’s Mountain Bike FamilyFriendly Festival comes to Comrie Croft. 26th - 28th June 2015.

id you realise that the Maternity unit in Fife has its own tartan? This came about as in the distant past babies would held in arms within a plaid, so it seemed natural to think about the new babies in a woolen plaid with a soft tartan. Irene Fenske Infant Feeding Advisor at the Maternity Unit explained ‘We looked for a Scottish identity for mothers cuddling and feeding their babies. We asked designer Jennifer McClory, who’d designed some of the fabrics seen in the Harry Potter movies to design a tartan that would encompass the colours for male and female babies and the yellow represents the milk and sunshine a baby brings into the life. She came up with this unique tartan. It was then the task of the unit to think up a suitable name for their tartan and with the help recommended of Anne Dickson, theAsunit’s then by business manager, they came Kids’ uniform going astray? BUY OF from THE DAY up with The Soukar Tartan the Scots word souk whose definition is thus ‘One who sucks need nourishment, as of a baby at the breast’ The easy one-snap The tartan has been used by way to label the clothing! unit in some of its posters along with the ‘Babymoon’ idea SNAPPED ON! to PUSH—CLICK— promote loving and closeness, Brought to you by Say It Personally Ltd that is encouraged in pregnancy Call: mothers, (0844) 5611994 and with the bond bs on their clothes... www.snappytags.co.uk partners and families have with their Fife born babies. 

need

n the Friday night things will kick off with a movie premiere with a difference - you provide the power! Yes, it’s pedal power all the way. In the courtyard spectators will scream on their favorites in the pump track challenge and for those with stardom in their minds there will be an open mic session in the barn. Bar and food from 6pm. The Cream O’ the Croft Funduro takes centre stage during the day on Saturday. The most exciting new event in Scottish mountain biking, this is a mashup featuring multiple timed stages: blue, red

Fife Farmers Markets

he Farmers markets run every Saturday 9am – 1pm across the St Andrews, Dunfermline, Cupar and Kirkcaldy. Markets are such fun for children and they are a great opportunity to see and sample the good local and seasonal produce available on our doorsteps. Take your children along and let them enjoy the spoils of our countryside. 

nappy Tags are the fastest, most costeffective way to label clothing. They take seconds to apply, are secure and can be reused. Snappy Tags are a small button with your child’s name etched on, which is applied, with the use of an applicator, to a care label on your child’s uniform. Snappy Tags are a quick, simple and cost-effective solution for school uniforms, PE kits and other school equipment. You let us know the name you would like etched

Buy of the day BUY OF THE DAY

The easy one-snap way to label clothing!

PUSH—CLICK— SNAPPED ON! Brought to you by Say It Personally Ltd

Call: (0844) 5611994 www.snappytags.co.uk

A one snap solution

0844 5611994 www.snappytags.co.uk 4 | Families Fife Issue 31

Finding and funding

Keep tabs on their clothes

bs on their clothes...

www.comriecroft.com

As recommended by

Recommended by Kids’ uniform going astray?

and black grade downhills; one hill-climb; a head-to-head. 

into the tags and we will send you the Snappy Tags and applicator, together with simple instructions. We guarantee the name won’t fade or wash off. The tags are easily attached to the care label of school uniforms – one click and it’s done! Introducing Snappy Tags PTA fundraising scheme – once the PTA has signed up to the scheme they are given a unique code. Parents enter this at checkout and the school receives 10% commission for their school PTA. Entry to this fundraising scheme will be at the sole discretion of Say it Personally Ltd.  For further information and to purchase Snappy Tags visit www.snappytags.co.uk

Testimonial “As a busy mum of three, and a Year 1 Teacher, I highly recommend Snappy Tags. They are easy to apply, stay securely fastened and can be reused when children grow out of their school uniforms. I would have no hesitation in recommending Snappy Tags to parents at my school, and know that those who already use them are delighted. Snappy Tags offer a quick, reliable and helpful customer service.”  Tracey, Parent and KS1 Teacher, East Yorkshire.

www.familiesfife.co.uk

Crail Food Festival: Choc Full of Treats

12 – 14 June 2015

ood and drink lovers are anticipating a true banquet as the Crail Food Festival 2015 programme is announced with a line up that contains a unique chocolate chamber, a series of street food pop-ups, producers’ markets, top chefs and the iconic lunch at the harbour festival. The festival, which is in its fifth year, brings the picturesque Fife coastal village alive with events and attractions in the historic centre. Crail Food Festival’s programme promises a full weekend of activities designed to showcase the very best in outstanding local produce. The weekend will start with a dinner and

film night celebrating local Fife producers on Friday evening and on Saturday and Sunday, Crail Food Festival will be in full swing. Throughout the day on Saturday, a variety of venues host different events including; producers market with produce as varied as jams and gin, cookery theatre, pop up food stalls, comedy as well as some kids classes. Crail Food Festival is supported by EventScotland, the events team at VisitScotland through the National Programme as part of the Year of Food and Drink.  The full programme can be found at crailfoodfest.co.uk or follow @CrailFoodFest on Twitter or like the event on Facebook.

Magical, mythical mermaids fun!

pair of glorious mermaids joined the Deep Sea World team bringing the mermaid myth to reality with visitors being able to watch one of the mermaids’ dive with the seven sand tiger sharks from inside the underwater walkthrough tunnel and the second mermaid was meeting and greeting visitors in the rockpool. This year’s event took on another dimension as one of Deep Sea World’s very own divers transformed into a mythical mermaid from Fife! Caitlin Orr put her diving experience to good use as she became Mermaid Caitlin for the event in her glorious purple tale joining Lily-Rose the English Mermaid in shiny gold. The event proved popular with visitors young and old. Kerry Myers, Sales & Marketing Excutive commented “All our visitors were mesmerized by the amazing pair of mermaids. Mermaid Caitlin proved very popular diving in the tank with the sharks and Lily-Rose was heard singing in the rockpool with one visitor! We had delighted families who went down to the tunnel to see Mermaid Caitlin dive time and time again on the preview evenings! It was a great event to be part of and we look forward to doing it all again later in the year!” 

Find Deep Sea World on facebook for regular updates on all things water creatures, sharks and fishy fun events.

Chris cleans up for Comic Relief

amilies was recently impressed to hear of the sterling efforts of Chris Laing (7) from Canmore School in Dunfermline. Chris decided he wanted to do something special for Red Nose Day and set about designing leaflets offering his car washing services on Saturday 14th March which he then delivered to friends and neighbours to book a

www.familiesfife.co.uk

slot. After washing 10 cars of local residents for donations, Chris managed to raise a whopping £100 for the charity. He was helped by his dad who joined in with the cleaning and by his sisters who are just 5 and 3, who baked biscuits and made thank you cards for all who supported his efforts. Well done all round to the Laing family! 

Issue 31 Families Fife | 5

Parties

Party politics

reathe …it’s okay. We’re not even going to mention the election here. This is a different kind of politics altogether. Here we are talking about children’s parties. To plan the perfect party you will need a longer lead time than the average general election however, and there are far more candidates to choose from and you only get one vote – per family. That’s where the fun starts. Let the power struggle commence…

3 PARTIES KIDS WILL LOVE BUT YOU WILL HATE Sarah Butters

ÊSLEEPOVERS Ê Let’s face it. They shouldn’t be called sleepovers. They should be called stay awake overs because you will sleep about as well as a meerkat balanced on a branch and the kids won’t sleep at all. However if you follow a few basic rules, you may survive. Keep the numbers low. As far as sleepovers go, more is defiantly not merrier but it is noisier. Keep them busy – I’ve heard tales of parents setting up nighttime obstacle courses to exhaust their pint sized house guests. Have a plan. Whether its X Boxing or X Factor, Craft or Minecraft, do plan something to keep them occupied (and from coming up with their own cunning, house destroying plan!) That said; take care to remove electrical devices at a reasonable hour. Do make sure you have a note of all parental contacts. As sure as night follows day, someone will get homesick at about midnight and infect everyone. For those who do survive the overnight stay, arrange for an early collection. It gives you the day to remove Haribo from

Art, Craft & Messy Play Classes in Dunfermline & Kirkcaldy for ages 1-2.5 yrs & 2-5 yrs

your beige carpet, and you’ll only have your own sleep deprived, sugar shocked child to deal with. ÊSWIMMING Ê Most mums are reluctant to strip off to a swimsuit even when the sun is shining and the sangria’s flowing. So the thought of doing so in front of your school gate ‘chums’ while at the local pool is unthinkable. However a swimming party is always a popular choice. Avoid hosting a swimming party for younger children – wait until your child and their friends are fairly competent swimmers, thus removing the need for parental submersion. Seek out a pool that offers an inflatable soft play area – you’ll find these at many council run pools – and you’re guaranteed a splashing time. Many such pools have a low rate room for hire so you can follow the wet fun with a homemade party tea to keep costs down. ÊParties Ê with bounce and splash! Kids love being active, so there’s no better way to guarantee a fun-filled birthday party full of bounce and energy than at your local leisure centre. Fife Sports and Leisure Trust – the region’s leading provider of sports and leisure services – has thirteen centres across Fife with a huge range of leisure options for all ages and abilities. The Trust offers a number of birthday party ideas to give active kids some fantastic options. Ever popular is the swimming

pool inflatable party, a real splash for your child and their friends with exclusive use of the pool, with the option of adding a giant pool inflatable for extra birthday fun. And, out of the water, there are lots of choices including air games arena parties – an inflatable with a difference – designed for non-stop fun with air ball games and activities bound to get your party jumping. Or, for younger children, a bouncy castle party is always a winner, especially when there are extra activities such as soft play or sports added for a really active birthday. The Trust’s friendly mascot, Archie the Hippo, has designed a multi-activity camp for kids who love to be energetic. Archie’s multisports party can be tailored to suit your child’s interests and abilities – there’s no better way to burn off birthday excitement. And, for football fans, there’s an activity party to suit them too. All parties at the Trust are led by friendly, qualified staff which means parents can relax and watch

Birthday Parties for 2-10 years Lots of different arts & craft themes to choose from! Contact us: Lynda/Pamela on 0794 282 5114 doodle@doodleandsplat.co.uk www.doodleandsplat.co.uk

Have a bear making party!

Huggy Bears NO SEW

Interested?

cuddly bear and animal kits. Find out more at:

www.huggybears.co.uk Tel: 0333 335 0120

6 | Families Fife Issue 31 Huggy Bears Fam Edi Artwork Nov 2014.indd 1

See page 3 for details

www.familiesfife.co.uk 17/11/2014 15:26

Magic Party with Mick Magic

hen you really need to pull something out of a hat, who’re you going to call? Well a magician of course! Mick Magic aka Mark Fisken MMC is a professional magician and children’s entertainer. Nominated by Ali Bongo he has first degree membership of The Magic Circle, he is also member of the oldest magical society in the world, The Society of American

ÊÊ Mick Magic

the fun. Visit www.fifeleisure .org.uk or pop into your local leisure centre and talk to staff about its great birthday party options. ÊDeep Ê Sea World Deciding to hold your child’s birthday party at Deep Sea World is one way of holding a water themed party – without having to get in! Choose from a range of exciting and magically enchanting themes in their new exclusive Party Room. All Birthday Parties include: • A fun filled hour long themed adventure tour • Dedicated party host • Cold buffet lunch • Party games • Themed party favours for the whole party • A special DSW animal adoption certificate. • Swashbuckling fun for all, sail the seven seas and join in the quest for hidden

Bell Tent hire for parties, weddings & other events

Visit our website & find out how to make your special occasion more magical

www.bellasadventures.co.uk www.familiesfife.co.uk

Magicians and he is past President of the Edinburgh Magic Circle. Mark is also known internationally and recognised as producer of the UK’s largest magic festival at Stirling Castle which ran from 2007 - 2012 with 10000 people attending over one weekend. Mark performs as Mick Magic, Pirate Mick and as 2000 year old Kramus the Magical Wizard. He has entertained for the First Minister of Scotland, Austrian Royal Family and for many large companies and organisations. Mark has performed at many prestigious venues including Stirling Castle, Falkland Palace, Edinburgh Castle, The Orient Express, Gleneagles and even a sea trawler! Mick Magic has entertained hundreds of

treasure. Fancy dress is optional. The special birthday child will be presented with an adoption certificate at the end of the day. Special offers/extras: • Creature encounter – get up close and personal with one of our reptiles in this private handling session. £30.00. • Invitations – available for 20p, to see what our invitations look like click here. • Birthday board – display the birthday child’s name on our special birthday board in our main shark tank. £5.50. • Gold upgrade – why not make your party even more special and upgrade to our gold package which includes premium party bags for all guests. £5.00/child. Price per child £12.95. Minimum booking 10 children. 2 Free adults. Additional adults £10.25.

Art and craft Don’t try this at home. No seriously. This is one party idea to seek out locally or hire a hall for and call in the experts. Arty parties are fab fun but frankly terrifying if you have

children at many parties, events, galas, fetes and fun days throughout Scotland and beyond. Mark has also enjoyed success with five self written plays performed as part of the Edinburgh Fringe Festival. If you would like to book Mick Magic for your event or party please visit www.mickmagic.com or find Mick Magic on Facebook. Mick Magic can provide a full range of magical entertainment from simple magic shows to full parties. Mick can also provide magic and balloon workshops, party bags and face painters.  For more information please telephone 013183 727 922 or email mickmagic@mickmagic.com

a home that you’re proud of. The idea of a dozen children attempting to find the toilet, while their hands are coated in a mixture of purple paint and glitter is enough to make your reach for a lunchtime Sauvignon Blanc. Instead read on for super local providers who can save you the stress of a child led redecoration of your home. ÊCeramic Ê Café, Dunfermline What were we saying about leaving it to the experts? For £12 per head the Ceramic Café in Dunfermline does a party package for children 3 years old and up, size of group 4-10 children. (Younger children too on request) The package includes painting a £7 ceramic ornament or a 6 inch tile (they recommend acrylic paints rather than the kiln fired glaze paints, as their ornament can be taken home at the end of the party), time to play in the soft play and ball pool, party food (sandwiches, cocktail sausages, grapes, assorted crisps, iced fairy cakes, chocolate fingers and unlimited squash to drink). They can provide party bags (5p each) to carry

n u F y l i m at

Find us at North Queensferry, Fife KY11 1JR. t. 01383 411880

kend Super Hero Wee 1-4 May kend Challenge Wee y Ma 22-25 Turtle Week 25 May Fathers Day 21 June

Find us on

By the Forth Rail Bridge, just 20 minutes from Edinburgh

Drop In And Sea Us - Open Daily From 10am

www.deepseaworld.com

Issue 31 Families Fife | 7

Parties the children's ceramic ornament home if required or parents can bring along their own if they prefer. Other than that, there is only the cake to be provided if you are having one and – it’s in the bag! Need the phone no. and webaddress here. ÊDoodle Ê and Splat Parties Messy play parties that will come to you or a venue of your choice…Yay! Give your child a party to remember with Doodle & Splat, who have a have a wide range of themed arts & craft parties for ages 2-10 years, including: • Prince & Princess: crowns and trinket boxes/ treasure chests to decorate • Under the Water: decorate wooden treasure chests and make an underwater collage • Wildlife: decorate bird boxes or ceramic animals and make animal masks • Decopatch: decorate an item of your choice • Plus lots more themes!!! Alongside the main crafts we provide a wide a selection of imaginative play and sensory play activities. There are always plenty different activities to keep the children busy. With the party, everything that the children make, they get to take home - a lasting memory of the party and ideal gifts for their party bags! Parties start at £70 for up to 10 children. For more details go to www.doodleandsplat.co.uk

ÊHuggy Ê Bears Here is a party you can have at home as they’re mess free and stress free. This party would combine well with a sleepover as the children can take their newly made friend to bed with them to snuggle in with. Huggy Bears no sew kits to make animals include your chosen bear or animal, stuffing, fabric wishing heart, birth certificate and full instructions – everything you need to make your new Huggy friend. Plus, each Huggy Bear comes in its own bag so no need for expensive party bags. No sewing – just stuff, pull closed and cuddle. It’s easy to book! Go to www.huggybears.

co.uk. Decide on which size of bear or animal to choose, either cute 8” or cuddly 16”. Add any party extras such as clothing or white bear sized t-shirts to decorate. Checkout and your Huggy Bears kits will be sent out to you. Remember to visit the Party download section where you can find printable invites, party planning ideas and game downloads. Full information available at www. huggybears.co.uk or call us on 0333 335 0120. Tel: 0333 335 0120 See the bear selection at www.huggybears. co.uk

ÊBella’s Ê Adventures Let Bella’s Adventures create a haven for families at weddings, parties & other events. Our 5m bell tent is a special place for children to play and relax, creating a happy experience for all your guests. We

• • • •

also provide a smaller changing & feeding tent called Baby Bella, for the tiny guests at outdoor events. Bella’s Adventures is a fun and magical tent parents and children can escape to at weddings and large parties. The tent is full of toys and resources where the children can play and relax. Baby Bella provides a calm, ÊÊ Bella’s clean and private Adventures area for parents to change their baby’s nappy and for mothers to breastfeed in peace. Our 5m bell tent is also available to hire for sleepovers & children’s parties. If you have any ideas or themes in mind we will try our best to help.  Bella’s Adventures: Tel: 07753306986 Email: jen@bellasadventures.co.uk Website www.bellasadventures.co.uk Facebook bellasadventuresuk

Print Design Corporate Branding Web Design Digital Media

white

w: www.whitecreativecompany.co.uk t: 07788111950 e: chat@whitecreativecompany.co.uk 8 | Families Fife Issue 31

www.familiesfife.co.uk

Birth, Baby & Beyond

HypnoBirthing

ypnoBirthing is becoming more and more of a household name. Where once it would have raised eyebrows, now HypnoBirthing is being advocated by our NHS, with some midwives even trained in the method. Bonnie Ewan, who has taught HypnoBirthing in and around Fife and Tayside for nine years and used the techniques with her own last three births, tells us a bit more about it. The name HypnoBirthing can be slightly misleading. In fact the programme is based upon the findings of two medical doctors, Dr Grantley Dick Read and Dr Jonathan Dye who believe that severe discomfort need not be a natural accompaniment to labour and birth. The doctors discovered there is no medical reason for childbirth to be painful. There is though, evidence to the contrary. They looked at the effects of fear on the birthing body and discovered that tension created by the fear is the main cause of pain in labouring women. They called this ‘The Fear-Tension-Pain Syndrome’. To allow a mother to approach her birthing without this fear, replacing it with excitement, confidence and trust, HypnoBirthing teaches women daily relaxation techniques, physical anatomy education, pre-natal bonding, tips for liaising with care providers, preparing birth

preferences, health and nutrition, and stages of labour explained clearly and simply. The support of the HypnoBirthing Practitioner is also invaluable. Once women know exactly what happens within their body when giving birth and the complex concoction of hormones released that relieve pain and enhance relaxation, fear dissipates.

ÊHow Ê important is a good birth though? You can take your pram back to the shop if it isn’t suitable, but joy of a positive birth experience is something that you can’t afford to miss out on. Bonnie hopes that the cost of a private course won’t put pregnant women off. She asked some previous attendees their

Safe,effective antenatal exercise

eing pregnant or a new mum is a magical time but the shine can really be taken off if you are experiencing aches and pains. It’s estimated only 15% of the pregnant population exercise at the recommended amount, but a whopping 76% of antenatal women report back or pelvic pain. Exercise plays a very important part in managing back pain in or out of pregnancy. Among other reasons, women avoid exercise as they simply don’t know what is safe. Pregnancy and childbirth have been identified as one of the major causes of urinary incontinence in women with a greater than 40% prevalence rate. Research has reported that ladies who experience stress incontinence during pregnancy are often likely to still experience it 15 years down the line. Contrary to popular belief, it is not something women should expect to put up with postnally or as they get older. The pelvic floor muscles can be strengthened

www.familiesfife.co.uk

just like any other muscle within the body but it’s vitally important you know how to do it effectively and avoid exercises which may make it worse. On a Fitback and bumps programme you are guided through exercising your pelvic floor and core muscles to strengthen the back and reduce the incidence of incontinence. You are advised on safe and effective exercise in pregnancy and how to look after your ever changing body as well as a practical session on relaxation. Delivered by experienced HCPC registered physiotherapist Annabelle Di Salvo, giving you the confidence to have an active pregnancy. Delivered either 1:1/ in small groups of friends in your home or in a venue. Postnatal programmes , “mummy MOT’s” and full musculoskeletal assessments also provided.  Email or telephone for more details or visit www.fitbackandbumps.co.uk Follow Annabelle on Facebook under fitbackandbumpsdunfermline.

thoughts on the course and their birth experiences Claire from Dysart: When I found out the cost it didn’t put me off at all. I thought the course was worth every penny. To have home tutoring of six sessions, each two and a half hours long I thought it was well worth it. My husband and I had recently got married, so we used gift money from our wedding to pay for the course. Debbie from Wemyss: At that time, all pregnant mothers received a maternity grant of £200 so a hypnobirthing course seemed the perfect way to use it. Louise from Crossgates: I thought the course seemed expensive at first but then I realised this includes 6 sessions and the book, CD as well as the folder Bonnie makes up for you which contains lots of good information. The cost didn’t put me off at all as having our baby was such a big event and I wanted to feel calm and relaxed about the biggest thing I would do all year, so I accepted the cost and hoped it would be well spent, which it was. ÊAnd Ê does it work? Kerry from Dunfermline: Amazing!! We had our intervention and drug free homebirth that we had dreamed about with our second baby. My third baby however was born in hospital after an induction due to special circumstances. The HypnoBirthing techniques we had learned during our last pregnancy really helped me to stay calm and my husband to support me in just the right way. Even though the environment was very different and my labour had been augmented I still remained calm and relaxed and brought our baby into the world in a quiet, calm and respectful environment. I required no pain relief again and felt amazing afterward!  Bonnie runs classes from The Space Upstairs in Burntisland or privately in your own home, dates and times are flexible please contact her for more information: bonnieewan@hotmail.com 07502 461 609 www.hypnobirth-fife.co.uk

FitBack & Bumps

Ante and Post Natal educational exercise programmes All sessions run by experienced and chartered physiotherapist Annabelle Di Salvo Groups in a venue or 1:1/with friends at home Tel: 07877 452632 Email: info@backfitphysio.co.uk Web: www.fitbackandbumps.co.uk www.facebook.com/fitbackandbumpsdunfermline

Issue 31 Families Fife | 9

Clubs and classes How to get your little one out of nappies and into proper pants

Doodle and Splat Class Update

oodle & Splat is a fun and exciting arts and crafts class for children aged from 1-5 years. In the classes we provide children with imaginative play, a sensory experience and creative arts and crafts. Activities vary weekly, and this allows the children to experiment with colour, shape and texture through working with a wide variety of materials. You and your wee ones get to have quality time together, making some fantastic masterpieces to take home to show families and friends. There’s nothing better than seeing your wee ones faces light up with pride when they show off their creations! The classes are all very relaxed and there will always be something for your wee one’s to try out and as a parent/carer you don’t have to stress about the mess! We are very excited to be starting new classes at Fire Station Creative, Dunfermline from Thur 7th May. This is going to be a fabulous venue with lots of space and a wonderful cafe too! The full timetable of classes for next term is: ÊMon Ê 9.30 & 10.30 at Dunfermline East Church ÊMon Ê 9.30 & 10.30 at Abbotshall Parish Church, Kirkcaldy ÊWed Ê 1.30 at Dunfermline East Church

Tips from the award-winning book‘How to Potty Train’ by Judith Hough and Diane Titterton. esearch shows that around the age of two is the best time to start potty training. In fact, nappies could be ‘masking’ that your child is ready. Look for the clues… Can your child communicate with you? Does he/she have good physical skills, such as being able to walk and climb stairs? Can he/she take direction, like being shown how to wash hands? If you answer yes to these and your little one is around two or more then don’t be afraid – go for it!

Don’t put off taking the nappy off

ÊThur Ê 9.30 & 10.30 at Dunnikier Scout Hall, Kirkcaldy ÊThur Ê 1.15 & 2.15 at Fire Station Creative, Dunfermline - NEW!! ÊFri Ê 9.30 & 10.30 at Our Lady of Lourdes Church, Dunfermline  For more information about the classes see our website www.doodleandsplat. co.uk, email doodle@doodleandsplat.co.uk or call 0794 282 5114.

It’s show time!

Join us at the Helen O’Grady Drama Academy Classes in speech, drama and self confidence throughout Fife www.helenogradyeastcentralscotland.co.uk

01382 330052

10 | Families Fife Issue 31

t’s that exciting time of year for the students of the Helen O’Grady Drama Academy when they create a play to perform to their parents at the end of term. This gives each and every one a chance to be a star – to show their skills of speaking, inventing, devising plot, describing character, joining in a chorus, improvising, pretending – or just overcoming the challenge of standing on a stage! Come and join us and show off your skills! Some of us will be pirates in “Pirate Joe” (will he be kind or a tyrant?) and others will be going on a “Trip in Time”, finding useful – and not so useful - tricks on the way – and some will be attending a “School for Superheroes” – who will you choose to be? 

Come and have a great summer with us – there’s a studio near you – just phone 01382 330052 or contact tayforth@helenogrady.co.uk

Although it can be tempting to wait for a holiday to start potty training, you will reap the benefits if you start when your child is ready. (Research shows it can take longer if you wait too long).

Simple Steps to Potty Success

ÊBefore Ê you start potty training, begin teaching the routine of going to the toilet. Take your child into the bathroom with you to ‘practice’ everything from turning on the light to waving off the poo, washing hands and closing the door. ÊStop Ê using nappies and nappy-style training pants and put your little one into proper pants. (You can pop in a Dry Like Me pad to catch accidents) ÊPop Ê your child on the potty or toilet 20 minutes after food and drink. Do this in the bathroom when you can. ÊAccidents Ê are a key part of learning. When your child has little accidents, remember that they will be starting to understand and react to what’s happening. This awareness is key to making real progress, so try not to use a product that makes it difficult for them to realize they have had an accident. ÊPotty Ê training can be a stressful time, but try not to get too stressed. It can help if you turn any anger or frustration towards the accidental poo or wee! “What a naughty poo!” 

For more tips or to find out more about the book, ‘How to Potty Train’ see www.DryLikeMe.com

HWIN

Two lucky readers can win a ‘smart way to potty train’ packs including an award-winning book and award winning potty training pads, along with a sticker reward chart - worth £24 per pack. To be entered into our prize draw simply answer this question: When is the best time to put your toddler on the potty? To enter this competition, simply login to www.familiesfife.co.uk/offers and complete an online entry form. Good luck!

www.familiesfife.co.uk

Out and About may & June 2015 Ongoing Art Lab Methil Heritage Centre Colourful, family-friendly exhibition Open Tuesday-Thursday 11am-4.30pm, Saturday 1pm4.30pm From Flanders Fields to Flying Bombs The Museum of Communication, Burntisland Wednesdays and Saturdays between 1100 and 1600 hours and the first Sunday of the month between 1200 and 1600 hours. 11am - 4pm.

1st-4th May Elie Scarecrow Festival Find us on facebook at ElieScarecrows

2nd May Perth farmers’ market Perth Farmers’ Market takes place on the 1st Saturday of the month in King Edward Street and St John’s Place, Perth, Scotland from 9am to 2pm. www.perthfarmersmarket.co.uk St Andrews Farmers Market Argyle St Car Park St Andrews. 9am - 1pm

www.fifefarmersmarket.co.uk/st-andrewsfarmers-market.html 9th May Dunfermline Farmers Market Glen Gates, Bridge Street, Dunfermline,

www.fifefarmersmarket.co.uk/dunfermlinefarmers-market.html . 9am - 1pm Kids fun run at Loch Leven Half Marathon Loch Leven Community Campus, Muirs, Kinross, Kinross-shire, KY13 8FQ Take part in the Kids Fun (organised by Swansacre Playgroup) at the Leven Half Marathon on 9 May. 1-4.30pm. The fun run takes place at 1.30pm but come a little bit earlier for registration. www.kleo.org.uk

10th May

familiesfife.co.uk/whatson www.fifefarmersmarket.co.uk/cupar-farmersmarket.html Festival of Museums Events - Hands on! Archaeological art & craft www.onfife.com/ Drop in anytime. Ages 6-12 years 11am-4pm

21st May The Edibles The Carnegie Hall Dunfermline. 10.30 & 1.30 / £6.50 (conc. £4.50). www.onfife.com

22nd May The Edibles The Adam Smith Theatre, Kirkcaldy, Fife, KY1 1ET 01592 583302. 3-7 year olds and children with additional support needs. 10.30 & 1.30 / £6.50 (conc. £4.50). www.onfife.com

23rd May Caro Bridges The Earthship Fife Visitor Centre, Kinghorn Loch, Kinghorn, Fife, KY3 9YG 01592 891 884. 2-4pm

www.sci-scotland.org.uk/index.shtml 30th May Kirkcaldy Farmers Market The Town Square, Kirkcaldy, Town Square, Kirkcaldy, Fife, KY1 1XW. Local produce straight from the producers. 9am - 1pm.

www.fifefarmersmarket.co.uk/kirkcaldyfarmers-market.html MUSA Young Archaeologist - Aztecs MUSA, 7A The Scores, St Andrews, KY16 9AR Free but booking essential. 2-3.30pm

www.st-andrews.ac.uk/museum/events/ familyprogramme/ Tall Tales & Fabulous Fables St Andrews Museum, Kinburn Park, Doubledykes Road, St Andrews. 10am-5pm.

onfife.com/venues/st-andrews-museum 6th June

Out of the Box – Pilgrimage MUSA, 7A The Scores, St Andrews, KY16 9AR. 1-3pm. www.st-andrews.ac.uk/museum/events/

Arty Saturdays Brilliant Bodies Gateway Galleries, North Haugh, St Andrews, Fife, KY16 9RJ 01334 461660. 1-3pm.

familyprogramme/

www.st-andrews.ac.uk

13th May - 24th June Nature Tots RSPB Loch Leven, Vane Farm Nature Centre An exciting outdoor playgroup for 2–5 year olds and their parents. 13/05 – Pattern Play20/05 - Mud and Mess27/05 – Rhythm Sticks03/06 – Colours10/06 – Pond Dipping17/06 – Treasure Hunt24/06 – Make and Take Home 9.30 – 11.30am or 1 – 3pm 01577 862355

16th May Celebrate the birthday of Andrew Carnegie’s dinosaur, Diplodocus carnegii! The Andrew Carnegie Birthplace Museum, Dunfermline, 10.30am – 4.30pm

www.carnegiebirthplace.com/events-listings/ Cupar Farmers Market Crossgate Cupar, Fife, KY15 5HA Buy direct from the producers. 9am - 1pm

www.familiesfife.co.uk

Jack & Jill Market The Vine Conference Centre, Garvock Hill, Dunfermline, Fife, KY11 4JU 10.30am - 1.00pm / Adults £1.50 Kids FREE

www.jackandjillmarket.co.uk Perth farmers’ market King Edward Street, King Edward Street, Perth, Perthshire, PH1 5UT. 10am - 2pm

www.perthfarmersmarket.co.uk St Andrews Farmers Market Argyle St Car Park St Andrews St Andrews, Fife, KY16 9BX. 9am - 1pm.

www.fifefarmersmarket.co.uk Sunday 7th June Farm Open Day Hilton of Alidie, Nr Crook of Devon, Kinross, KY13 0QJ. 11am to 3pm. £2 admission/donation for adults, under 14 and over 65 free. Free car parking. Raising money for local charities. www.farmerdawes.co.uk

12th & 13th June Hup The Carnegie Hall, East Port, Dunfermline 01383 602302. 10.30 & 1.30 / £6.50 (conc. £5.00).

www.onfife.com 13th June Dunfermline Farmers Market Glen Gates, Bridge Street, Dunfermline. 9am - 1pm. www.fifefarmersmarket.co.uk Hup The Adam Smith Theatre, 10.30 & 1.30 / £6.50 (conc. £5.00). www.onfife.com/whats-on/detail/

20th June Caro Bridges The Earthship Fife Visitor Centre, Kinghorn www.sci-scotland.org.uk/index.shtml 2-4pm. Cupar Farmers Market Crossgate Cupar, Fife, KY15 5HA . 9am - 1pm.

www.fifefarmersmarket.co.uk 20th June & 21st June Funbox - Pirates and Princesses Whitehall Theatre Dundee, 01382 434940 New show from Anya, Kevin and Gary (formerly of the Singing Kettle). 1pm & 3.30pm From 20 June to 21 June

From 26th June Summer Holiday Wildlife Challenge RSPB Loch Leven, Vane Farm Nature Centre, www.rspb.org.uk/ Discover the wildlife of Loch Leven by taking part in our self led weekly themed challenges... No booking required. 10am-4pm

27th June Kirkcaldy Farmers Market The Town Square, Kirkcaldy, Town Square 9am - 1pm. www.fifefarmersmarket.co.uk/ MUSA Young Archaeologist - Cave Painting MUSA, 7A The Scores, St Andrews, KY16 9AR Free but booking essential. 2-3.30pm

www.st-andrews.ac.uk Starcatchers Hup Tour The Perth Concert Hall, Mill Street, Perth, 10.30am and 12.30am £6; £4; family ticket £16

www.horsecross.co.uk Children’s Forest School Club, Fife Monday 1st & Tuesday 2nd June - Kingsbarns, nr Crail, East Neuk Age 6 to 12yrs. 10:00am - 4:00pm. £50 for 2 days Early Bird Discount. Booking essential. Contact: chris.childe_education@yahoo.co.uk Tel: (01337) 830621, Mob: (07587) 893190.

Keep up to date with what’s on locally facebook/familiesfife Whilst every care has been taken to compile the Out and About section with accuracy, please remember to check with the venue before making plans to avoid any disappointment as Families magazine is put together weeks in advance of actual publication.

Issue 31 Families Fife | 11

for sale

Successful, established magazine franchise

Local parent needed to take Families Fife onwards and upwards! Families Fife, Perth and Kinross, the local FREE magazine for parents with primary school aged children is now for sale. Families Fife was launched in 2009 and has enjoyed a privileged position right in the heart of the community for the last 5 years. The franchise is now for sale and we are looking for the person or team who’d like to take the title to

the next stage. As a franchisor you’d be one of a group of around 40 Families editors throughout the UK. You work independently but with the support and backing of a large national brand, plus a local website that’s part of the national group. Add in a Facebook page and Twitter account and you’re really at the heart of what’s on locally.

If you are:

• A parent keen to work from home • Looking for flexible working hours around your family • Someone who enjoys talking to people • Well organised and computer literate • Looking for a new challenge Then you could be the next editor of Families Fife.

To find out more and for pricing information contact Susan on 07734 289143 or email editor@familiesfife.co.uk

12 | Families Fife Issue 31