Laura Vida

By Laura Vida Dundee Science Centre Based in Scotland? Looking for a staycation that definitely won’t break the bank? Need ideas for half-term or bank holiday days out? Dundee is absolutely packed with indoor and outdoor options for kids. If staying over, nearby Broughty Ferry is a great spot for families with young kids. Accommodation is reasonably priced and there’s a great beach and playground on your doorstep. From here, it’s a short train hop to central Dundee. Here are some of the...

Many independent schools hold weekly stay-and-play events for parents, babies and toddlers. These provide a fantastic opportunity for you and your child to explore and make friends. If you’re in the process of choosing a nursery, this is also an ideal occasion for you to get a real feel for a place and the team who work there. NB: We didn’t find regular weekly events at every independent school. But it’s worth following potential nurseries and schools on social media. That way you can sign...

Gentle, interactive clowning bringing the alphabet alive! We enter to find the two artists in situ. Like living statue performers in lab gear, they move lethargically as I raise my camera. The clown’s teacher-like foil engages the kids right away, asking for their names and draw

The Truth About Trees By Apropos Theatre Age: 5+ (Official guideline). We’d say 6/7+ Where: Assembly George Square, The Box When? 10.45, 9th-30th August 2026 (excl. 17th & 24th) Duration: c. 45 mins This show was fantastic in many ways: Alex Zawalyski’s script is original, varied and highly imaginative. Also playing the main character, Alfie, Zawalyski is believably engaging. My almost 5-year-old professed to ‘like’ him. And she’s choosy. We loved the oak tree (plus roots) projection at...

Laura Vida's REVIEW: The Elves and the Shoemaker by Theatre of Widdershins My daughter was hooked, even before the show began, desperate to find out what Elvis’s magical foot measurer would say about her. (‘Amazingly awesome’, naturally.) The eloquent narrator, Elvis Schumacker III (grandson of the original shoemaker!) is utterly brilliant throughout, deftly seizing every opportunity (even water breaks) to encourage live interaction. The primary-age kids in the full audience today are fizzing...

Edinburgh’s Top 5 Spots for tired parents! When kids are too young to self-regulate, it’s important to incorporate rest into their day. And it helps to have a few sanctuaries up your sleeve. Here's where we like to relax in Edinburgh, with or without friends.

Our 5-star review of Camera Obscura & World of Illusions, Edinburgh. 100+ interactive exhibits, 4 floors of fun, rooftop views. Tips for families with young kids.

Read our honest 5-star parent review of Bungydome Edinburgh in West Princes Street Gardens. Perfect for kids who love trampolines — safe, shaded, and just £8 per bounce.

Top 9 Fringe shows for kids aged 3–7 in August 2026 | Music, puppetry, acrobatics & interactive theatre at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe — handpicked for little ones.

8 evidence-based strategies for parents to foster learning at home without pressure, stress, or comparison.