Organising a birthday party for your wee one can seem daunting, especially if you need to cater for children of different age groups. I went to celebrate my niece's third birthday last week at The Hive Play and Party Centre, a new soft play in Bathgate, West Lothian. The venue was a hit and the birthday girl was treated like a VIP when she had her name called out over the loud speaker which she was thrilled about.

The guests varied in age, from small babies (including my six month old) to children aged six. The older children had a great time in the sports area which had a basketball hoop and football. My baby enjoyed playing with some toys and had tummy time on the rug area. The toddlers had two levels to explore, including a very cool wall piano, slides and buzzing bees to ride.

Being new it's very clean and the decor is really bright with plenty of tables and chairs for parents to relax, there's even free Wi -Fi. The children had a good selection of party food, and the birthday girl received a free soft play visit as part of the package.

As far as parties go (and I've been to quite a few in my time) this venue rates high. The parents get to relax and enjoy a coffee and don't have to clean up the mess after, a win win in my book.

There are plenty more ideas for party venues in the latest edition of Edinburgh for Under Fives.

Until next time,

Kellie

Member of the EFUF committee

Mum of two boys who loves coffee and chocolate

We are recruiting volunteers for our next edition, want to join in the fun?

As a mum of two I am always on the look out for fun things to do in Edinburgh for kids. For me a resource like Edinburgh for Under Fives is invaluable and being part of the project is exciting as Edinburgh offers so much for children and there's always fantastic new places popping up.

It's so great when you discover a hidden gem. Whether it's a park, new soft play, child friendly pub or party venue, if it keeps the wee ones happy then I am happy (especially if they serve good coffee).

 If you like exploring Edinburgh, having fun with your under fives and fancy getting your research published in a must-have guide then why not be part of our next edition? You can take on as little or as much as you like and get to see your name in print when it is released next year.

Our volunteer researchers include mums, dads and grandparents but we'd love to hear from aunties and uncles, nannies, foster parents - anyone who spends time caring for children under 5. We couldn't get by without the support of our researchers and we need new volunteers to help make our 14th edition better than ever!

Find out more by coming to our researcher information evening on Tuesday April 16 between 7.30 & 9 pm at St James Episcopal Church, 57b Inverleith Row, EH3 5PX. There'll be a short presentation, coffee, tea and cake, plus the chance to chat to the team and find out more.

If you can't make it you can still be involved, just email us at info@efuf.co.uk, we'd love to hear from you.

Until next time,

Kellie

Member of the EFUF committee

Mum of two boys who loves coffee and chocolate