Monday July 22nd 2024
Colin Beattie MSP, Midlothian North & Musselburgh, writes his monthly column for Midlothian View
These costs have been exacerbated by the cost-of-living crisis that continues to hurt family finances. What may have been affordable last year may now not be the case.
I hope the Scottish Government funded under 22 bus pass helps alleviate the stress this summer. Fortunately, Midlothian has a variety of cheap and free activities for families and children of all ages.
Libraries across the constituency are holding free events for children of all ages. They are running a free Summer Reading Challenge where your kids can earn rewards for the number of books they read.
I appreciate some youngsters may not be too thrilled to be reading on their summer holidays, however, it is a beneficial hobby and can improve their cognitive skills. The libraries also run Lego clubs, scavenger hunts, coding, and crafting sessions.
Midlothian Communities Lifelong Learning and Employability are running free summer classes for families; pottery; cooking; arts and craft, and short tennis. These classes are free and will keep your children entertained while learning or improving on a new skill. You can book these online.
We are lucky to live in such a beautiful part of the country and I would encourage everyone to explore the outdoors and see what natural beauty Midlothian has to offer. For example, the Loanhead Heritage trail is a great day out where you can learn all about the town’s history.
I hope the above encourages you to take advantage of all Midlothian has to offer this summer with free or low-cost activities for everyone.
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