5 October 2015

Parents of children aged eight and under in Galashiels are being given the opportunity to find out how to plan for a stress-free Christmas by taking part in a series of workshops being held at the Langlee Early Years Centre.

Help and advice will be available on a range of topics from shopping and cooking through to budgeting, making and buying gifts.

All sessions are free with crèche places available for children aged 0-8 years old. Anyone taking part will also have the chance to win a Christmas hamper.

The sessions start on 21 October and will be held every Wednesday morning until 25 November with the programme including:

Date and TimeTopicDetails
21 October
9:30 - 11:30am
Shopping tips Buying and selling online. Want to be a savvy online shopper? Learn to use online marketplaces like eBay, Gumtree and social media sites to get the best deals. Also get handy tips on how to keep safe online.

28 October
9:00 - 10:00am

28 October
10:00 - 11:00am

Money advice


Bookbug

Get the most out of money! Come and learn easy ways to make the most out of your Christmas shopping.

Christmas storytelling, songs and fun - a fun and lively session with parents and children aged 0-5 years.

4 November
9:30 - 11:30am
Get ready for winter Come and find out the best ways to save money on gas and electricity. Bring your bills in and start saving!
Staying safe - get handy tips on how to keep you and your home safe this winter. Book in for a free home fire safety check.
11 November
9:00 - 11:00am
Christmas food Stuck for a Christmas present? Come and learn how to make quick, simple edible gifts, goodies and treats. Get ideas and tips on how to make a stress-free Christmas dinner.
18 November
9:00 - 11:00am
Looking good for less Look good for less with loads of tips and ideas of what and how to wear on a budget during the festive season.
25 November
9:00 - 11:00am
Gifts and crafts Make it for less - get creative with this craft workshop. Come and make Christmas decorations and get tips and ideas of crafts to make with kids at home.

Allyson McCollam, Joint Head of Health Improvement with NHS Borders and Scottish Borders Council (SBC) said: "Although Christmas can be a fantastic time for families it can also cause parents a lot of worry and stress. The aim of these sessions is to give parents with young children ideas and tools to make the holiday break a more enjoyable and relaxed experience for everyone.

"Each workshop will offer participants skills, knowledge and experience to manage their money and make it go further, helping to minimise the financial pressure that many of us feel at this time of year. I would encourage anyone interested to contact the Early Years Centre to find out how they can book a place so they don't miss out."

Booking is essential for all dates and crèche places. For more information and to get a booking form, drop into the Early Years Centre, Langlee Primary School, Langlee Drive, Galashiels or phone 01896 754637.

Information will also be available on the Centre's Facebook page.