Archives for September 2021

HEALTHY GRANOLA BARS RECIPE

Filed Under: FAMILY RECIPES, FOOD // September 29, 2021

These delicious granola bars from @feedingtheirfutures make a great nutritious breakfast or snack that are great for the whole family, free from refined sugar and packed with protein, healthy fats, fibres, vitamins, and minerals.

Nuts: high in fat, low in carbs, and a great source of several nutrients, including vitamin E, magnesium, and selenium.

Seeds: great sources of healthy fats, protein, fibre and antioxidants

Oats: high in phosphorus, magnesium, copper, iron, zinc, folate, vitamin B1 (thiamin) and they contain beta-glucan, which is an antioxidant.

Coconut: rich in lauric acid, which is converted to monolaurin in your body, which strengthens immunity.

Live Greek yoghurt (on the side): contains probiotics, the healthy bacteria your intestine needs to keep your digestive system healthy.

GRANOLA BARS

You can store them in an airtight container for a few days, in the fridge for up to a week or freeze them for up to 2 months.

If you’re making them for under-1’s, make sure you crush the nuts up very small and swap out the honey for maple syrup or fruit syrup.

Ingredients:

150g rolled oats

150g dried cranberries or other dried fruit

50g mixed nuts, crushed (put them in a sandwich bag and bash them up with a rolling pin)

50g mixed seeds (e.g. chia, hemp, flax, sesame, sunflower, pumpkin, linseed)

1 tbsp desiccated coconut

3 tablespoons coconut oil

75g honey (or maple syrup for under 1s)

25g butter

1 ripe banana, mashed

Method:

Preheat oven to 180
Put all dry ingredients into a bowl and mix well
Melt the coconut oil and butter in a saucepan, then add the honey or maple syrup. Stir to combine
Pour the mixture into a bowl, add the mashed banana and mix well
Press the mixture into the base of a greased, 8×8 inch baking tin. Really push it down to help it to bind, then bake for 25 minutes
Cut into bars and serve with a dollop of Greek yoghurt for breakfast or enjoy as a snack on the go.

There you have it, super easy & nutritious granola bars recipe that the whole family can tuck into! Will you be trying these?

RECIPE BY : FEEDING THEIR FUTURES

INTERVIEW WITH MHAIRI MCFARLANE : AUTHOR OF LAST NIGHT

Filed Under: LIFESTYLE, THAT MAMA BOOK CLUB // September 27, 2021

We are SO excited to bring you an interview with Mhairi McFarlane! We read Mhairi’s latest release, Last Night, in July as part of our book club and we all loved it! Mhairi kindly offered to answer some questions for us! Click here to buy your copy of Last Night.

MARKETING YOUR SMALL BUSINESS

Filed Under: HOME, LIFESTYLE // September 25, 2021

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When it comes to running a business you need to think about how you are marketing it, by marketing it properly you are going to increase how much you reach your target audience. Utilizing marketing is a huge part of running a business but in order to do it successfully you need to do your research, without research you are not going to know how best to target your audience.

If you are looking to market your business and reach more of your target audience but you are unsure how to get started or you need ideas on how you can market your business then these few tips should help you to understand how you could help marketing your small business.

Use Social media

One of the biggest marketing tools that is used these days is social media, it has such a huge presence now which gives you the ability to reach lots of people. With social media you need to start by researching your customer base, you can do this through short surveys or when they sign up for things etc. Once you have asked them what social media they tend to use you can now start to target your audience by using the social media they are active on. This gives you the optimal reach, and if they share it and any of their friends are interested in your business they could use it or they then share it and it keeps reaching more and more people, if you can get on social media before your competitors it will give you the edge.

Get creative

When marketing your business you should try and get creative where you can, by utilising the modern day technology you can do all sorts of creative things. The best creative

marketing you can do is videos and video ads. You could set up a Youtube channel and do videos about your business, explaining what you do and what you offer, maybe showing your products and how they work. You can also do video ads whether for TV or just to put online, a lot of people are using an animation studio and creating animations for their videos as animation has become very popular.

Create an online presence

If you are already using social media then it makes sense for your business to have an online presence if it doesn’t already. By creating a website you can boost your online presence and make sure that more people can find your website. Without a website then you can not easily make online ads for your business as there would be nowhere to go to when they click the ad and also you will be losing customers. If you have no website and someone sees an ad on TV or one of their friends tell them about you, one of the first things they will probably do is google you and if you do not have your information there for them to see they are unlikely to want to use your business, some still might but if you want to utilise your customers then having a site will help.

If you are looking to better market your small business but you are unsure where to start or what sort of things you can do then these few tips should help you to understand what you can do and help you get started.

REUSE, RECLAIM AND RECYCLE : THE THREE R’S FOR REMODELLING

Filed Under: LIFESTYLE, SUSTAINABILITY // September 22, 2021

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A home remodelling project can often feel like a never ended slew of rubble and bricks. And for the most part, that is true But one of the most exciting parts of remodelling your home is the sheer amount of possibility. Many people don’t factor into a remodel that much of the materials can be safely recycled. From cable recycling to reclaiming old doors – here are some tips for the three Rs.

Which materials can I reuse, recycle or reclaim?

Anything that is hard plastic, metal or wood can usually be recycled with ease. The only issue is that any of these that have been chemically treated isn’t suitable.

The chemical leaches out into the surrounding areas and can be harmful to the environment.

Likewise, if you find something you wish to use within your home, you need to check to ensure that it hasn’t been chemically treated.

White goods and most appliances can be recycled, but you will need to work with a professional recycling company. If the appliance is in good working order, it can often be donated to shelters. Be sure to check all of the options.

If you have decided to remove and replace the roof, this can be one of the biggest waste generators. Sheathing, unfortunately, cannot be reused – however, paper-based sheathing can be recycled.

Asphalt shingles last over 20 years, so they can be reused and recycled.

Light bulbs and lighting fixtures can often be reused since they are hardwearing. Often the retro and vintage ones can fetch a pretty penny when sold.

Flooring and countertops can be reused, reclaimed or recycled – for the flooring; it needs to be in safe order. Wood, laminate and bamboo flooring can be recycled with ease. However, most often, carpet can’t be recycled, but it can be reused.

Things like stone or marble countertops can be smashed up and used for flooring slabs or to create a backsplash. Donating the counter to charity or selling it is a great way to ensure that hard-wearing material is used again.

How can you reduce your remodelling waste?

As you can see, there is a long list of possibilities for reusing, recycling and recycling building materials.

To make sure that it is possible for you, the first thing to do is only work with a remodelling company that has recycling and reusing policies. This will mean they are already equipped to handle the task.

Planning ahead will mean that you can plan to upcycle and repurpose things like cabinets, faucets or other items.

Depending on the quality of the items that you are removing, you may consider posting a notice in the local paper or online so that people can come and take the things off your hands. It’s up to you if you would like to sell them or give them away.

You can also speak to your contractor, as they likely have plenty of contacts who prefer to use materials that have been sourced rather than purchased as new.

And finally, a crucial part of the process is to – where possible – close the loop. That means using recycled and reclaimed items in your building process.

Check out our Sustainability archive for other great tips.

HELLO AUTUMN

Filed Under: HOME, LIFE, LIFESTYLE // September 22, 2021

When does autumn begin for you?

Does it rush in with the start of the new term? When the clamour of John Lewis shoe department and the fight for the last pair of size threes is over. When every item of clothing is name taped, and the new pencil cases have been proudly filled. When the meticulous organisation gives way to an inevitable rush to meet the first school run, new shoes squeaking as you run across the playground, and then later scrolling social media you see scores of newly grown-up smiling faces. The lull of the house surrounds you, is that autumn?

Even in those years where I’ve not been connected to schools, and term-times and Centre-Parcs ridiculous price hikes, the autumn term has always felt like a renewal. It brings back memories of walking into school on that first day, smelling the freshly waxed floors, having a new peg to hang my bag on and still in the pit of my stomach the excitement and nerves linger. I buy a new notebook every September, reorganise my desk and revel in the feeling of a new beginning.

Or does autumn begin for you when the first leaf falls? Maybe it’s a rainy day, and you watch as a sudden gale throws a yellow leaf against your window. Stuck there with raindrops running all around it, you catch yourself shivering, and think about lighting a candle to make the house feel warm and cosy. Or maybe you are out walking the dog, early morning, and notice its not quiet as light as it was last week. In fact, there’s a definite chill to the air and you notice the pavement is fringed with confetti, a light dusting of leaves newly fallen. Maybe it’s your little one running up to you with a handful of leaves, of autumns treasures, and as you tuck them carefully in your pocket you think, ‘autumn’s begun’.

Perhaps you are neither of the above and as September rolls around you hold tight to summer, after all summer fades in a spectacular way in September. Its dahlia season, glowing pompoms of petals brightening up flowerbeds and windowsills. The evenings are still long enough for trips to the park after school, ice cream drips on book bags, piling into the car flushed with laughter and fresh air. We spent the first weekend of September at the beach. And to see the picnic blankets, the sandcastles, the sandals kicked off and the tins of gin and tonic that appeared from coolers you would have thought it was still the peak of summer.

Today – the 22nd September – marks the autumn equinox, when night and day are of equal length and the beginning of autumn in the northern hemisphere. After today the nights will lengthen, the sun rising later in the day and the nightfall drawing in. So for all of us, summer lovers and pumpkin spiced souls alike, the season is carrying us into autumn. The leaves are changing, we celebrate the harvest festival and, (dare we whisper it?), Christmas is glittering on the horizon.

Here at That Mama Club, we are celebrating the season, we’ve rounded up the best things to do across the country, sharing great autumn content ideas and the best things to watch on TV this season.

All that’s left to do is say….

HELLO AUTUMN!

AUTUMN BLOG POST IDEAS

Filed Under: HOME, LIFESTYLE // September 22, 2021

Happy 1st (official) day of Autumn! We have been embracing Autumn since the day September 1st hit but we appreciate some people prefer to enjoy the last few days of summer sun. We absolutely love writing seasonal content and Autumn/Winter is where we feel most inspired, it also a sure set way to gain traffic on your blog; anything specific to the current season! Constantly coming up with fresh and exciting blog post ideas can be really difficult so we have collated a selection of Autumn blog post ideas for everyone!

YOUR AUTUMN TBR
THE BEST HALLOWEEN FILMS
YOUR FAVOURITE THINGS ABOUT AUTUMN
AUTUMN BUCKET LIST
THINGS TO DO IN YOUR LOCAL AREA THIS AUTUMN
AUTUMN RECIPES
ULTIMATE COSY NIGHT IN
YOUR AUTUMNAL SKINCARE ROUTINE
EASY HALLOWEEN COSTUMES FOR PARENTS
AUTUMNAL CRAFTS FOR TODDLERS
PUMPKIN RECIPES
WHAT TO STREAM ON NETFLIX FOR AUTUMN
INSTAGRAM ACCOUNTS YOU ARE LOVING THIS SEASON
DIY AUTUMN/HALLOWEEN DECOR
HALLOWEEN PARTY FOODS
SUMMER ROUNDUP
AUTUMN CANDLE WISHLIST
HOW TO MAKE YOUR HOME MORE COSY THIS AUTUMN
AUTUMNAL SLOW COOKER RECIPES
HOW TO MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR GARDEN THIS AUTUMN
BEST PUMPKIN PATCHES LOCAL TO YOU
TIPS FOR THROWING HALLOWEEN PARTIES
AUTUMNAL LUNCHBOX IDEAS
HALLOWEEN PLAY IDEAS FOR PRESCHOOLERS
TOP TIPS TO START GETTING ORGANISED FOR CHRISMTAS
AUTUMNAL BEDTIME STORIES FOR KIDS
PUMPKIN ACTIVITIES FOR KIDS
MORNING ROUTINES FOR AUTUMN
RAINY DAY PHOTOGRAPHY TIPS
PHOTOGRAPHY TIPS FOR AUTUMN
AUTUMN HASHTAG IDEAS FOR INSTAGRAM
WEEKEND GETAWAY IDEAS FOR AUTUMN
MUST HAVE AUTUMN ESSENTIALS
HOW TO MAKE A HOMEMADE PUMPKIN SPICED LATTE
TOP 10 BUDGET MEALS FOR YOUR FAMILY
HOW TO SAVE MONEY THIS OCTOBER
YOUR FAVOURITE SMALL BUSINESSES
RAINY DAY ACTIVITIES FOR KIDS
BOOKS FOR EVERY MOOD
HOW TO STAY PRODUCTIVE THIS AUTUMN
HALLOWEEN BUCKET LIST
OCTOBER THOUGHTS
SPOOKY TREATS TO MAKE AT HOME
FILLING PASTA RECIPES
HOW TO MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR THANKSGIVING LEFTOVERS
FUN BAKING IDEAS FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY
COSY PYJAMAS EVERYONE NEEDS
AT HOME DATE NIGHT IDEAS
AUTUMN SELF CARE TIPS
AUTUMN WARDROBE UPDATE

There you have it, 50 autumn blog post ideas for every content creator! These could be interpreted for blogs or Instagram photo ideas/captions. Are you going to use any of these ideas?

BODY CONFIDENCE AFTER HAVING A BABY

Filed Under: LIFE, LIFESTYLE, MOTHERHOOD, POSTPARTUM // September 20, 2021

A woman’s body during pregnancy is one of the most incredible things in life. We create, grow and birth whole human beings. We have to endure tiny bladders, back ache and leaking nipples for nine months: then proceed to walk this exhausted life for 18+ years. We give up everything for our children: including our bodies. Our boobs become a personal drinks machine and don’t even get me started on being stuck under a sleeping baby when you need the toilet!

BODY CONFIDENCE

We often become aliens in our own bodies. Unable to feel comfortable in this new skin.

You could say, that our bodies change during the course of motherhood. From the moment that seed starts to grow inside of us, our bodies change forever.

The moms that have lost babies, find it hard to conceive and those who carry to full term: our bodies are moved by this process.

We are told that our bodies are made for this job: a baby factory. Our skin changes and we are told to accept that this is life now. We have to love and be confident in this foreign place. But sometimes it’s a little hard to look in the mirror and see a person that we don’t recognise. We get bigger, We lose weight, We stretch, We wobble, We jiggle and our boobs look like that of an 80 year old woman. We find ourselves looking at the likes of Kim Kardashian and Beyoncé: these women who have given birth yet look like some sort of Greek goddess statue. The world around us doesn’t show the bodies of those who haven’t ‘bounced back’. So it’s hard to look at that reflection and see it as beautiful, especially if we compare it to the body we had pre babies.

My body does NOT look like what I expected of myself at the age of 24. To be honest I look like a dropped lasagne. I don’t have the body of a page 3 model and most people think I shouldn’t openly share this body online. But as a mom who sees only sees the same three people a day, two of them are under the age of three, getting a compliment off a stranger online is kinda’ nice.

To my parents dismay I am often seen in my lingerie on the internet. But although I am not completely in love with my post baby body, I believe it is important. It’s rare for me to see image of women like myself on the internet: something that as a young first time mom made me hate myself. It was hard to believe that anyone else looked the same or had the same experiences as I. Although everyone says that ‘stretch marks are ugly’ or ‘they tell the beautiful story of your baby’: It is hard not to see them as ugly.

So think about how you look at these women in the public eye. Do you look at them and think they are beautiful or ugly? Now think about how you think about yourself?

I am by no means the epitome of self-love. I have struggled with ED, depression, anxiety and postnatal depression. I am basically a mess. But one thing I can control is how I feel about myself. I can control what hurts me and what controls my happiness. If @Steve435 from Texas thinks my big thighs are ugly, what should I care?

My body has gone through a lot over the years. I’ve never really felt comfortable in my own skin, always comparing my weight and my looks to those around me. I always thought that happiness came from being a size 8 and having B cup boobs. In University I had an eating disorder that saw me balloon from a size 12 to a size 18 and back again within a few short months. Little did I know that in order to love myself I had to embrace what I already had rather than changing it.

So, as easy as I write it, I decided to love myself. It seems silly and unachievable. But I just sat there and said to myself. Just love yourself. Stop taunting yourself, bullying yourself. You wouldn’t treat someone else like this so why would you do this to yourself? The thing that gives you life: gave you two amazing children.

EASY STEPS TO TAKE

Taking More Photos of Yourself

Sounds silly, but this is something I stopped doing for a really long time unless it was controlled and edited by myself. I was petrified of the thought of looking fat or unpolished. During my pregnancy with Rupert I avoided the camera: being pregnant made me look massive (obviously) but I couldn’t bare seeing images of myself looking ‘big’. I have a few images from my baby shower because I was forced into them. So sad that I don’t have many images from that amazing time in my life.

I am making a huge effort to take more images of myself, not just for the gram either. Photos with loved ones and everyday moments. Focusing less on how I look and taking the time to appreciate the captured love.

Be happy and take fun photos of yourself. You don’t have to post them anywhere. Just be in love with yourself.

Take Better Care Of Yourself

At my darkest times of hating my own body, I was not only harming myself by binging and purging but I let the little things go. Things like getting my hair done, doing daily skincare, drinking water and taking time to slow down and enjoy the things I love. I was being too harsh on myself and making things worse. I know that simple things like a pamper can make me not only feel better about myself but improves my mental health. Trust being a mom of two very young boys means sometimes I don’t have time to care for myself but I find every second I can to do the things that make me happy.

Take Time To Ask For Help

I always feel like I have to do everything myself and asking help is the equivalent to failing. Being a mom is hard but I have learnt that I am not wrong or bad to ask for help. If anything it makes me a better person and parent.

I was someone before becoming a parent and asking for help allows that person to still be important.

Dressing The Way You Want, Not How Society Wants

For years I have hidden behind huge tops, jeans and jumpers because that is what is expected of me. I have always wanted to wear skirts, crop tops and dresses but I didn’t think I could unless I was skinny. But why should I stop myself dressing the way I want? If I am comfortable and happy what does it matter.

Surround yourself With Empowering Figures

I guess I have myself to blame for a lot of my issues. I have always followed the skinny bloggers, saw myself as someone less than them. Watching them and dreaming of when I could be like them: Holding myself back and purposely making myself feel bad. As I expressed in the into I had started to surround my every day life with positive influences. Following those who are promoting self love no matter who you are, rubs off on you and you end up loving yourself because you love them.

People like Francesca Perks have taught me to love myself and my skin regardless on the size number on my clothing. Wearing what I want to wear without fear of society, be happy with everything I have. Yes, I have stretch marks and cellulite: but why do these need to be a bad thing? Also she is hella sexy. Lingerie and nudes are beautiful regardless of your size.

Stephanie Yeboah, is one of the most humble and kind people you will find within the social world. She has proven that hard work and kindness will help you to be the best and most successful person.

I have actively started surrounding myself with those promoting being a good person, being inclusive and being your authentic self.

Reminding Myself of Accomplishments

I am an educated, beautiful and smart woman with a degree in Journalism, two beautiful children and a wonderful home. A blog I am proud of and a talent that has given my hobby of creating content into a job that provides. Follow hashtags like #selfloveclub and #bodyconfidence etc that will bring a lot of positivity to your feed.

Go through your social media and unfollow or mute any accounts that doesn’t make you happy. It isn’t rude to unfollow someone if they are effecting your happiness, it just means their content isn’t for you but may be for someone else. Then follow a bunch of accounts that make you happy.

We live a lot of our lives online so it should be a happy place to be.

As a society we are told it is wrong to think of ourselves as beautiful. As women we are often called narcissistic for thinking of ourselves as amazing or wonderful. But we are? Every woman is! Being a mom is hard and we should be praised for what we achieve without being seen in a bad light.

If someone compliments you, the natural reaction is to say ‘oh no I look horrible’. Why? Just think about that for a second.

We are also deemed to believe that taking a break or taking a day off makes us lazy or bad parents. We are human and sometimes we need that little moment to breathe. As long as you are looking after yourself, you are looking after your kids. Your children don’t want an unhappy burnt out mom all the time. The washing up can wait, putting the clothes away can wait. And yes, sometimes fish fingers and chips is a great dinner.

Body Confidence comes from you. No-one else. No diet can give you that, No number in your clothes can do that. Think, honestly, about yourself. Is being skinnier going to take away all your unhappiness? Is having smoother skin, longer hair, tanned skin, tighter stomach, longer nails going to make you love yourself completely? Probably not. These things may help a little but they won’t get rid of any self hate. We are programmed to hate ourselves. It takes a lot of unroot that but it is worth it.

As a mother I don’t want this pattern of self hate to continue. I don’t want my children growing up thinking mommy hates herself and it is normal to pick away at yourself every day for the way you were made. This can stop with us if we try.

So say this, I honestly want you to promise me to say this out loud to yourself every day. ‘I Love You’.

There are far too many things going on in this world right now to be worrying about, adding crap body image on to that is just not needed.

Things I say to myself everyday:

‘I Love You’

‘You Look Pretty Today’

‘You’re an amazing Mum’

‘You’re doing your best’

What I am trying to say with all this is, give yourself a break. You are beautiful, you are strong and when the end of your life comes around you will remember the happy moments: not the diets or self hate. So make more of those happy moments and less of those bad thoughts. Flaunt that body like no-one is watching. Because I guarantee the ones who love you won’t see the bad you see in yourself so what’s the point in it?

———-Zoe Sugg’s IGTV series on Body Image is an amazing video filled with the most amazing women, this video honestly changed the way I saw about my body. It is very much worth a watch for those wanting some love from within. ————-

GUEST POST WRITTEN BY LEAH HIGGINS

PLANET FRIENDLY PERIOD CARE | TOTM REVIEW

Filed Under: HOME, LIFESTYLE, SUSTAINABILITY // September 17, 2021

THIS ITEM WAS SENT TO US IN EXCHANGE FOR A REVIEW – READ OUR DISCLAIMER FOR MORE INFO

TOTM stands for Time Of The Month. They are a period positive brand producing ethical and sustainable period care, it is their mission to provide planet friendly period care. Their tampons, pads and liners are made with certified, organic cotton and they use biodegradable cardboard for the applicators. TOTM aims to use compostable or recyclable packaging wherever possible. They don’t use any unnecessary plastics, chemicals, dyes or fragrances in their products. Excitingly they also have a menstrual cup and reusable tampon applicator in their range, to enable you to have a zero-waste period.

As well as looking after the Planet, TOTM aims to support communities too. TOTM wants to end the silence around periods believing that everyone should have access to period care, periods should be normalised and that there should be menstrual wellbeing education for all. 1% of all online sales is donated to Endometriosis UK. When you subscribe you are given a £3 voucher every time you recommend a friend. You can then choose to use this £3 to buy a box of pads that can be donated to Binti. Binti is a charity that provides menstrual dignity to girls around the world, by ensuring access to pads and education around menstrual health.

When That Mama Club asked me to review some of the products from TOTM, I jumped at the chance. I was sent a box containing various sizes of pads and tampons (applicator and non) and some liners. The first thing that I noticed was how beautiful the packaging was! I have had the opportunity to sample the pads, liners and tampons and I was not disappointed.

The liners are super thin and discreet. The pads are winged, which I personally prefer and stuck really well to my knickers-no moving around leading to possible leakage! I found them to be really soft, comfortable and absorbent. Equally importantly, I didn’t notice any horrible chemically smell that I so often notice with other brands of pads. The tampons are, again, really comfortable and easy to insert and wear. I used them when I went swimming and couldn’t feel them at all. The best part of using TOTM products was knowing that I was helping the planet by having a sustainable period and not contributing to plastic waste.

If you are considering changing your period care to be more sustainable, I would recommend giving TOTM products a try. Through their website there is the option to buy packs as a one off purchase or you can subscribe to have your products delivered to you every month and never worry about being caught out again!

REVIEW WRITTEN BY SOPHIE // @SOPHIEAWHITWORTH

NOW THAT YOUR CHILD IS OLDER, WHAT ARE THEY GOING TO NEED?

Filed Under: MOTHERHOOD // September 15, 2021

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Now that your child is older, they are going to need some things that they didn’t need before. They are also going to need some things a little more than they have previously, so you’re going to have to work out how to give it to them. If you don’t know what kind of things we are talking about, the simple answer is everything. However, we are going to be looking at this in a little more detail down below, so keep reading if you would like to find out more.

A Space Of Their Own

The first thing that they are going to need is a space of their own. As kids get older, they are going to start valuing their privacy a little more, and they are also going to become more independent. Maybe they want to play in their room for a little while instead of playing downstairs where they used to. There is absolutely nothing wrong with this, and you need to make sure that their room is a space of their own in which this can be done. Make sure that you do it up the way that they like it, or something very similar to how you know they would have it if they could choose.

Look at a range of different furniture options such as cabin beds before you decide exactly what you want to do, instead of just choosing the first thing that you see. This shows the amount of thought that you have put into the room, and it will be appreciated by the child. Make it fun, and trust us they are going to love it.

Emotional Support

Your kids are going to be going through some changes that they may not fully understand, but it’s important that you are there to emotionally support them. Sometimes it’s difficult, like when they are angry about something and start saying hurtful things, but you need to try and remember they don’t mean it. All kids go through massive hormonal changes, and it can be tough when they are crying, lashing out and so on, but you will get through it. They need you then more than ever, no matter what they think at the time,

You need to ensure that you are there to offer emotional support wherever you can. Be their safe place where they can talk about things without being judged. This is a fantastic way to cement your relationship.

Firm Boundaries

As they grow, you are going to need to set firm boundaries. It’s difficult when they are really small because you know they don’t understand what you are saying or the point of it all. However, the older they get, the more they are going to try and test your boundaries, which is why you need to stand firm in them. Too many parents give up at the first sign of their child showing resistance to something, and while it’s hard to ignore the tantrums that come with rules, it’s necessary. Talk to them afterwards about what happened, why you said what you said and so on so that they understand everything. This should help the next time something similar is on the horizon.

Fun Activities

Finally, your kid is still going to need to do fun activities in order to enjoy themselves. Don’t think that just because they are a little older now that they don’t need the same amount of attention from you. Trust us, they do. Make sure that you have fun activities available for them to do either with you involved or at least with you in the vicinity. Ask them what fun things they would like to do every once in a while, and we’re sure that you will be able to compile a fantastic list after a little while.

We hope that you have found this article helpful, and now see some of the things that your kid is going to need a little more of now that they are older. It’s important to recognise when you aren’t giving your kid exactly what they need so that you can take a step back and really think about what you could do differently. Some parents don’t like to do this as it makes them feel like a failure, but you have got to put your kids’ needs before anything else, and if that means changing the way you are currently doing things, this is what needs to happen

HOW TO LIVE LIFE AT A GENTLER PACE

Filed Under: HOME, LIFE, LIFESTYLE, SUSTAINABILITY // September 15, 2021

I haven’t always lived at a gentler pace. Until April 2019, I’d had jobs of the hustle and crush it variety where 5:30 a.m. starts, long days, and travel the length and breadth of the country were the norm. My daily commute to the office could be two hours each way. The benchmarks of success were productivity and busyness. My quietly competitive streak meant it wasn’t enough to achieve my targets, I had to exceed them as well. My to do list was a bottomless pit and yet another daily challenge to be met.

Deep down I craved purpose and fulfilment but I wasn’t finding that in my work. It became increasingly clear that my values were at odds with those of the businesses for whom I worked. In my daydreams, I began to contemplate a different way.

A realisation, one weekend, that time was finite led me to hand in my notice, the start of a chain of events that would lead me to Derbyshire. In those early days I was simply putting one foot in front of the other trusting that, somewhere along the line, a plan would unfold.

It was a gradual transition. For several months I couldn’t wean myself off the daily routine that I’d followed for so long. Eventually, and in some ways helped by the enforced slow living of lockdown 1.0, I began to realise the full impact of embracing life at a gentler pace.

I’m the square peg in the round hole. My take on life has always been unconventional. Although I didn’t realise it at the time, the groundwork for seeking out my own version of slow living was being laid a couple of decades ago as I railed, internally at least, against the succession of soul sucking jobs. I longed to find a sustainable way to live on my own terms but I had no idea what that looked like.

It would be several months before I re-read a blogpost I’d written in those early post-resignation days. I’d outlined what I wanted to do and how I wanted to live.

I want to create something whose focus is on slowing down, travelling at a gentler pace yet still having time to watch the world go by or to smell the roses and the coffee, and nurturing the spirit leaving a trail for others to follow – should they wish.

The trail has started to reveal itself and I’m learning why life at a gentler pace is so crucial for me – and maybe for you too. Here are some highlights from my journey so far.

Follow Your Bliss

If you do follow your bliss you put yourself on a kind of track that has been there all the while, waiting for you, and the life that you ought to be living is the one you are living. When you can see that, you begin to meet people who are in the field of your bliss, and they open the doors to you. I say, follow your bliss and don’t be afraid, and doors will open where you didn’t know they were going to be ~ Joseph Campbell

My quest to forge my own path goes back a long time. Given much consideration over the years, it had often seemed that there were too many obstacles in the way to make that dream a reality. It was the resignation letter that put me on this track that had been waiting for me and calling me for so long. Without the nudge that weekend, I could still be living in Manchester now, doing what I’d always done. Instead I crossed over on to a new path where I started to meet people who understood my craving for a more blissful life, and doors did indeed start to open.

I already knew what following my bliss looked like. I’d journaled about it countless times. The list was always the same. Daylight, lots of it. Long stretches of time spent outdoors. If that involved coming into contact with cows, even better! Muddy boots; space to indulge my love of photography and reconnect with my creative spark; tiny, unexpected adventures; meeting unusual people with great stories; finding connection and beauty in unexpected places. And then, home to write about this blissful life, share the stories on my podcast, or use what I was learning to inspire others.

As I began to trust where my guidance was taking me, cogs began to whir. Stars were aligning. I came across fellow travellers on social media who got it! Books and a variety of resources presented themselves to inform my journey. Ideas started popping into my head, and on to the pages of my notebooks. I still needed to work but the possibilities that appeared were nothing like the conventional jobs listed on my CV. I had to shift my mindset into another gear, forget what had gone before and plan a different future altogether.

After quitting the day job, I was now location independent. Another stay in my favourite place, the Peak District, prompted the decision to fulfil one of my biggest dreams – to move to Derbyshire. Another door opened.

Community, Connection and Collaboration

Your friends will know you better in the first minute you meet than your acquaintances will know you in a thousand years ~ Richard Bach

From the outset, after we arrived in Derbyshire, we were welcomed. Wherever we went – the farm shop, my favourite stationery shop, the bakers, the fishmongers, the local dairy – everyone greeted us like old friends. Friendships were forged quickly without the barriers of social niceties that I’d been used to. Many of the people we’ve met in the last couple of months have learned more about me in just a short space of time than those who have known me for years.

Around here, when you pass someone out walking on the lane, they always say hello. We’ve had many lovely conversations, been offered help moving into our new house, or doing a weekly shop from people who, until recently, were complete strangers.

The sense of community that we’ve experienced is unique. It’s so striking that we’ve talked about it often. There’s an openness, a warmth, and a welcoming spirit. I have a connection to the place and the people that I’ve not felt in years.

Something else that stands out is the collaboration between all the businesses. In our local town, it’s clear that there is an understanding – where one succeeds, they all succeed. Shopping local makes a real difference here.

I think the locals have already tapped into the concept of living at a gentler pace. In some ways it’s reminiscent of the life I knew as a child. A period when people had time to stop and chat, and neighbours knew each other and helped where they could.

Reconnect With Nature

The goal of life is to make your heartbeat match the beat of the Universe, to match your nature with Nature ~ Joseph Campbell

There is an entirely different vibe, an appreciation of the incredible landscape of the Peak District, and a true living off the land culture, in tune with the seasons. We buy our milk from a 24 hour self-service shop on a dairy farm where we can even say hello to the cows. If you’re non-dairy, another farm supplies oat milk. I’ve fed carrots to Alpacas, been invited on visits to several farms, and for drinks with the owners at the local stable.

As far as the eye can see, it’s green. Fields, trees, hills. Dotted with sheep, cows or horses. I know I’m very lucky to have this on my doorstep and I want to share it with others so that, wherever they live, they can also find ways to connect to a gentler paced lifestyle.

I’m sure that spending time in nature is not only essential for our wellbeing and mental health but, at a deeper level, it reconnects us with ourselves. When I was cooped up in an office, being outside and seeing daylight was the one thing I craved. Nature was my sanctuary. It rebalanced me when I felt out of kilter, it fed my creative spark, and brought me the greatest joy.

When you reconnect with nature, you can’t help but want to preserve it. I think that desire to care for our environment starts with us. We have to care for ourselves first and foremost and, by living at a gentler pace, have time to take notice of the tiny seasonal changes happening around us.

What Brings You Joy?

Although the premise of a gentler pace wasn’t fully formed when I conceived the idea, I knew that I wanted to focus on those activities that bring me joy and fulfilment. More than anything, I wanted to step away from the conventional 9-5.

Now, joy is my barometer. Often it’s a leap of faith. Following your bliss doesn’t always make logical sense but I believe it takes you down the paths you are meant to travel. Most importantly, I’m sure that this is how we are supposed to live.

It’s easy to believe that living at a gentler pace is about slowing down. For me, it’s much more about making time, prioritising my joy, and following my bliss. Reducing the busyness so that I have the headspace to think, to experience and to reconnect with my potential. It’s making that sacred space where my ideas can percolate, a place where my nature and Nature meet and magic happens.

The Big Adventure

We’re right at the beginning of our big adventure in the Peak District but already I’m building the foundations to create a lifestyle lived at a gentler pace. One that sees me in greater alignment with not just the seasons and the rhythms of nature but also myself. Most importantly of all, it feels like I’m home.

GUEST POST WRITTEN BY NICOLA FISHER @AGENTLERPACE

Nicola is a writer, photographer and podcaster. In May 2019, Nicola Fisher swapped her day job to pursue a more unconventional way of life. She set up A Gentler Pace to help others follow their bliss, do more of those things that bring them joy, and reconnect with their purpose.

3 THINGS TO CONSIDER BEFORE GOING BACK TO EDUCATION AS A PARENT

Filed Under: HOME, LIFESTYLE // September 11, 2021

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From 2018 to 2019, the number of non-traditional students (made up of parents) going to back to education in the UK hit 469,985. This, however, doesn’t take away the daunting task of balancing family, work, and school. Without a doubt, you must be ready for the rough terrain ahead and remain committed to the cause. Before enrolling, it is essential to consider certain things. How do you intend to fund it or earn extra academic credits? Highlighted below are other considerations to make.

What funds are available?

The average cost of undergraduate education in the UK is £9,250 annually. Meanwhile, tuition for a master’s degree ranges from £5,000 to £17,000 per school year. The variation in fees depends primarily on the course or programme you intend to offer. Admittedly, as a parent with other pressing financial responsibilities, these costs can be a major put-off. It explains why you must research the availability of funds, grants, or scholarships offered by the government or the higher education institution in question.

Although most UK scholarships are structured to favour international students who wish to study in the country, others prefer citizens. Your task is to find out which ones and whether you fit into their requirements. For example, some internal scholarships attend to students aged 18 – 22 years. Unless you are willing to sacrifice your savings (not advisable, though), you should explore other viable options.

Consider how to earn non-traditional academic credits

Academic credits boost your performance and GPA as you study towards earning a degree. The traditional way to earn credits is to remain consistent with school assignments, projects, and the hours committed to lectures. However, some higher education institutions make it more exciting by helping students earn it through study trips or travel programmes.

As a busy parent, you may want to consider the added benefits of these study trips. When you finally enrol in the university, these will come in handy to fulfil your credit hours. Believe it or not, you stand a chance of graduating quicker when you meet your credit hours. When it comes to these non-traditional credit hours, mature students tend to have an advantage over the 18 and 22- year-olds in this regard.

Is the institution or programme friendlier to adult students?

If you fail to do this check, you will regret ignoring this critical research at some point in your studies. Adult-friendly courses and schools tend to make provision for online classes, weekend or night lectures. Some institutions will offer one or a combination of all to enhance your performance in schooling as a parent. The more flexibility you have, the fewer scheduling conflicts you are likely to face in your studies.

Lastly, do not shy away from asking for help. You need all the support you can get as a parent returning to the schooling environment. It will help if you get mentally ready for the journey ahead.

TV SHOWS TO WATCH THIS AUTUMN

Filed Under: ENTERTAINMENT, LIFESTYLE // September 11, 2021

If you are anything like us, then you love devouring a tv series! Personally I am a huge fan of both bingeing the crap out of a fully released show and also the anticipation of having to wait a week for the next episode to be aired (Vigil i’m looking at you!). Stuck on what to watch next? We thought we’d do you a solid and share our top tv shows to watch this autumn! We have both returning and brand spanking new series to share; ranging from thrillers to fantasy. A little something for everyone!

SEX EDUCATION SEASON 3

Where Can I Watch? Netflix. Release Date? 17th September.

We absolutely fell in love with season one & two of this show, due to the incredible characters, incredible sex positive attitude and Gillian Anderson, hello. Asa Butterfield who plays main character Otis, revealed in an interview from January 2021 that the next series will not start where the second series left off, which ended on a seriousss cliff hanger! The main gang will all be back (YAY) along with three incredible new cast members. If you haven’t already, we highly recommend you head to Netflix and watch season 1 & 2 now!

STRICTLY COME DANCING

Where Can I Watch? BBC One. Release Date? 18th September.

I don’t think we need to tell you what this is about.. but Strictly is back! It is one of my favourite things to watch and if I could take part in any “reality” tv show, it would 10000% be Strictly. The 2021 celebrity line up looks amazing and I can’t wait to see the dances!

HOLLINGTON DRIVE

Where Can I Watch? ITV. Release Date? September (no official date yet)

Hollington Drive is a new four-part thriller series that will be arriving on ITV very soon. The highly-anticipated series will feature familiar faces from Line of Duty and The Haunting of Bly Manor. We follow Theresa and her sister Helen, who often spend time together and in the opening scene, their families are enjoying a barbecue in the sun. Theresa’s 10-year-old son, Ben asks to go to the park with his cousin Eva, and the adults are not too sure. As expected the children don’t return home and Theresa goes to investigate.

Although they’re luckily found in the park, they are at the edge of some woodland and look to be arguing. Things take a more sinister turn later in the evening when distraught neighbour Jean arrives on their doorstep looking for her 10-year-old son Alex, who has gone missing, and Theresa begins to feel that her earlier sense of doom was accurate.

GREAT BRITISH BAKE OFF

Where Can I Watch? Channel 4 at 8pm. Release Date? 21st September.

Another absolute classic! Bake Off is just wholesome television and it is the perfect show when accompanied by a delicious sweet treat. We have a brand new line up of 12 bakers (over the course of each week, the participants are eliminated until just three remain in the final), however we will still be joined by Paul & Prue as judges and Matt Lucas & Noel Fielding will be back as hosts (I will secretly miss Sandi Toksvig, I loved her!).

YOU SEASON 3

Where Can I Watch? Netflix. Release Date? October 15th.

Is there such a thing as an endearing serial killer? Yes, yes there is and his name is Joe LOL. Caroline Kepnes, who wrote the book Hidden Bodies that You is based on, released the third book in the You series. Kepnes is also working on the fourth book in the series, does that mean season 4 could happen? If you haven’t seen You then we follow serial killer Joe as he navigates life, relationships and you know, murder. Season 2 ends on a slight cliff hanger with Joe’s life taking a dramatic turn that we will see unfold in season 3…

HELP

Where Can I Watch? Channel 4 at 9pm. Release Date? 17th September.

Help follows the relationship between a young care home worker and a patient. Starring Jodie Comer & Stephen Graham, two of my favourite actors! Graham plays a patient with Young Onset Alzheimer’s. Set during the coronavirus pandemic, we see how COVID throws everything Sarah (Comer) has achieved with Tony (Graham) and others in her care in into disarray, and she and her colleagues fight to protect them.

THE ACCIDENT

Where Can I Watch? 4OD & Netflix. Release Date? September 20th.

A close-knit community in a small Welsh town is hopeful of a better future when a large construction project is planned in the area. But when a terrible explosion rips through the site, killing many, including children, the accident devastates the community. The immediate loss of loved ones is heart breaking, but the community also feels its sense of hope vanish in the aftermath.

MIDNIGHT MASS

Where Can I Watch? Netflix. Release Date? September 24th.

Midnight Mass is an upcoming American supernatural horror series created and directed by Mike Flanagan. The series is centred around an isolated island community that experiences supernatural events after the arrival of a mysterious priest.

WHEEL OF TIME

Where Can I Watch? Amazon Prime. Release Date? November 19th.

A epic high fantasy series based on Robert Jordan’s book series ” The Wheel Of Time”. The series of novels began in 1990; following Jordan’s death in 2007, fantasy author Brandon Sanderson used notes left by Jordan to complete the series. For decades now, Hollywood has been after the source material, which sprawls across 15 massive books. The adaptation promises an action-packed fantasy adventure led by an eclectic and powerful cast of characters.

HAWKEYE

Where Can I Watch? Disney +. Release Date? November 24th.

I couldn’t NOT mention a brand new Marvel series could I?! Especially as Hawkeye is one of my favourite Avengers. Disney + are bringing us a brand new miniseries and I can’t wait! Avenger Clint Barton (Jeremy Renner). Hawkeye will bring Clint face-to-face with a younger female archer, played by Hailee Steinfeld. New episodes will drop every Wednesday!

There you have it! A whole bunch of tv shows to watch this autumn! Is there anything that takes your fancy? Anything in particular you’ve been looking forward to? Let us know! Follow us on Instagram to keep up to date with what we are watching & loving.

5 Tips For School Readiness

Filed Under: HOME, LIFESTYLE // September 10, 2021

It’s that time of the year again. The time when most parents start frantically teaching their children their ABC’s and how to count to 20.

As a mother and teacher, I would like to offer some simple steps that are equally beneficial in setting your child up for success at school (and probably more achievable with such a limited time left). Things you as a parent can do these last couple of weeks to help them confidently step into class on that first day.

5 TIPS FOR SCHOOL READINESS

Teach Common Courtesy

A teacher will be far more impressed by a child who can greet them nicely or who can kindly ask to share a book with a fellow classmate than with a student who can sing the alphabet song. After all, a friendly greeting, kind apology or being able to share always goes a long way, even for adults, and especially on the playground.

Practice Name Recognition

This does not mean your child needs to be able to write their name perfectly in the most beautiful handwriting. If they can, good for them. If they can’t, that’s why they’re going to school right? Instead of trying to jam the whole alphabet into their memory in 1 week, rather start helping them to recognise the letters of their name.

Teach How to Put On and Take Off Shoes

Being able to put on (on the right feet) and take off their own shoes is a basic skill for this age group. You can practice tying shoe laces or fastening straps and there are so many nifty tricks on how to teach them which shoe goes on which foot. I can not tell you how many times I’ve had a student trip because they were running around with shoes on opposite feet. So this is definitely something I most often recommend to parents to practice at home.

Practice Zipping

This is such a useful skill to have, especially for children starting school. You can practice zipping and unzipping their backpack, pencil bag and jackets. Jackets are especial tricky as you have to perfectly hook the bottom stop. This is probably on of my favourite skills mastered with my daughter recently, because let’s admit, we can all do with those extra 10 minutes it takes to get the kids out of the house. Of which putting on shoes and jackets are often the main culprits.

Fine Motor Skills Development

Which is just a more technical way of saying ‘work with the hands’. Before children can write or cut (essential school stuff), they need to have hands that are strong enough to do so. Hand and finger strength as well as control is essential for writing. Any crafting activity is great for developing those fine motor skills. Other practical activities include working with playdoh, Lego, peeling fruit, and lacing.

By now I’m sure you get that school readiness does not necessarily mean they should’ve have mastered certain academic skills. Of course early literacy and numeracy is important, but readiness also goes beyond those traditional elements. School readiness is also equally about helping your children develop practical skills that in turn help them become confident and capable little learners. What are your top tips for school readiness?

Heritage Open Days 2021

Filed Under: ADVENTURES, HOME, LIFESTYLE // September 9, 2021

September is here! And this means that not only is autumn fast approaching, and kids are back to school, but it is also the month when you are invited to discover local history and culture at Heritage Open Days 2021!

On 10-19 September loads of different places will open their doors for the public as part of one of the biggest festivals of the year, all to celebrate culture and history. After the year we have had with lockdowns and being stuck at home it will feel even more exciting exploring new places. And what better way to do so then during a few fun filled days of events.

And do you know what the best part of it all is? It is all for free!

It is an event that was established back in 1994 after a European initiative to raise appreciation for the diverse and rich culture of Europe. And up to 50 of the European states have signed on to have their own Heritage Open Days.

With every year the UK festival has grown in size and it has gone from around 700 events in its first year to over 5,500 currently. There are so many different events that there is bound to be one for every taste. I had personally never heard of it before but after having researched it a little I truly think it sounds like such an amazing thing.

Like I said, there should be something for everyone as there is everything from guided tours around city centres, to walks in gorgeous nature. There are events for adults, and events more aimed at children. There are events involving food and others involving cute little furry animals. So, believe me when I say, that there should be something for everyone.

There are so many beautiful places around the United Kingdom just waiting to be discovered. For a full list please visit Heritage Open Days own website. They have a map over the UK, with all the thousands of events, from far up north all the way down to the south, marked out. There are truly so many events, it would be impossible for me to even mention half of them. I did however have a little look and picked out a little taster of what kind of events there are.

Bletchley Park

First out is Bletchley Park, close to Milton Keynes and once the home of some of WW2’s greatest heroes. It was here that the World War Two Codebreakers were based, and it was also here that the modern computing was born.

So why not pay them a visit and explore this historically exciting place with the WW2 Codebreaking Huts and beautiful surroundings.

Bletchley Park, Sherwood Drive, Bletchley, Milton Keynes, Buckinghamshire, MK3 6EB

The Salvation Army, Hadleigh Training Centre, Castle Lane, Benfleet, Essex, SS7 2AP

The next place on my list a somewhere quite close to us. We are yet to visit but it looks like a great day out. There is 900 acres of farmland to roam around. It was bought by the Salvation Army 130 years ago and the Hadleigh Farm was originally created to help marginalized and unemployed people in society.

It is still a fully functioning farm that produces malt for Malteasers and wheat for Hovis bread. And it continues to help the weaker in society.

If you plan to visit there is lots to do! There is a tearoom to sit down and relax in, original farmhouses to explore, and stunning views. There is also a Rare Breed Centre for the little ones, which includes ponies, pigs, poultry and different breeds of goats.

Dover Priory Railway Station, Priory Station Approach, Dover, Kent, CT17 9SB

Dover is famous for its White Cliffs, but now you can go for a guided walk to discover more of what Dover has got to offer.

Put your walking boots on and pack a backpack with provisions, because this is a walk cross-county and there are a few steep hills.

There will be beautiful Sea views (on good days you may see all the way to the French Coast), you get to learn about edible plants and you can view a historic Fortress.

The Old School, Old Wolverton Road, Old Wolverton, Milton Keynes, Buckinghamshire, MK12 5NH

I mean is there anything more magical then sitting under a sky full of stars? As a child I used to love to stop and look up at the dark sky with all these stars twinkling back at me. Now as an adult I live in a far too populated place to be able to see the stars properly.

So to me this even sounds absolutely amazing! You get to gather around a fire, listen to stories, all while looking at the stars. Does that not sound like the cosiest night out ever?

There will be warm drinks and food available and the moon should be almost full harvest moon. I mean, count me in!!!

9 Jesus Lane, Cambridge, Cambridgeshire, CB5 8BA

Anyone a chocolate fan like me? Then you should go and discover how George Cadbury’s decided to use his chocolate factory to help transform the lives of factory workers. There will be a workshop for children where they will learn the story of Mr Cadbury.

What’s not to love? Storytelling, craft and chocolate all at the same event!

Stephenson Railway Museum, Middle Engine Lane, North Shields, Tyne & Wear, NE29 8DX

Are you a lover of trains? Or maybe you got a child that is? Why not go visit the Stephenson Railway Museum and take a trip along the route of the old coal trains, in a 1950s passenger carriage.

In addition to the train ride there is obviously also the museum to visit, with a range of different locomotives on display. One of them being a locomotive called Billy that was built around 1816. How cool is that?

Tavistock Visitor Information Centre, Court Gate, Bedford Square, Tavistock, Devon, PL19 0AE

Ever hear of a heritage stamp trail? Well Tavistock Subscription Library has created on around the historic town center. From 11 September it is open for children of all ages to join in. They get a heritage passport to collect their stamps in. There will be clues around the town on different buildings and at each location they can collect their stamps. When all stamps are collected, they will be given a certificate to show off! Which I’m sure most kids will enjoy, mine would!

The Tasting Garden, The Storey Gardens, Meeting House Lane, Lancaster, Lancashire, LA1 1TH

How amazing does it sound with a Tasting Garden?? A garden full of a variety of apples, pears, plums and cherries, all there for you to taste. In this very garden there are 21 fruit trees to find along the paths.

If you tire of apples and pears there are also herbs to look out for and lots of different insects to look out for.

The Italian Gardens, 8-10 South Parade, Weston-Super-Mare, Somerset, BS23 IJN

In the Italian Gardens they have something called the Whirligig! It is an event they themselves describes as an ‘extravaganza of free fun!’ And it is all bee-themed.

It is all a celebration with outdoors events, and even a multi-sensory art instillation called Artizani’s Bees where you can walk amongst different types of bee hives.

Ashcombe carpark, Simonsbath, Minehead, Somerset, TA24 7SH

In Somerset I found another little gem, the White Rock Cottage and Ashcombe Gardens. It is a gorgeous place with a cottage and a garden landscape dating back to the Knight family that lived that in the 1820s.

The White Rock Cottage was recently conserved together with an old Victorian school room that is also there to view. They both sound really interesting and I’m sure both adults and children would enjoy a look around. But what really caught my attention was the beautiful woodlands surrounding the cottage. I would love to take a stroll through there and breathing in the fresh air.

Zoological Drive, Discovery Way, Dudley, West Midlands, DY1 4AL

I mean have you ever heard of a better combination then a Zoo and a Castle?

Well at Dudley Zoo you would get just that. There are hundreds of exotic animals on a wooded hillside, with a caste just smack bang in the middle of it!

My children would definitely love a day out at this Zoo!!

20 THINGS TO DO IN SEPTEMBER

Filed Under: ADVENTURES, HOME, LIFESTYLE // September 9, 2021

September is well underway, although the heat wave we had over the past few days was very unexpected and I for one am glad it is (hopefully) over. We have put together a list of different ideas & events taking place over the month of September, all over the country. Ranging from pumpkin picking to garden shows – there is something for everyone. Let us know your September plans!

20 THINGS TO DO IN SEPTEMBER

Rainy day weekend? Why not check out your local art gallery, give each child a notepad and some pens or pencils and get them to draw a picture in the style of their favourite piece!
Book tickets for any Halloween activities you’ve got your eye on – things are selling out quickly this year! If you are Manchester based we’ve booked pumpkin patch tickets for the lovely Kenyon Hall Farm but again, there’s limited slots left!
Anyone else still waiting for their Hogwarts letter? I’ve got no recommendations for a flying car, but a trip on The Hogwarts Express will keep you feeling magical.
Its not just summer that’s for festivals – Clapham Common hosts Colourscape Music Festival between the 11th-19th of September. It’s a music festival, inside an art installation – explore inflatable tunnels, immerse yourself in colour and sound. It’s a fully wheelchair accessible festival, and they also have ‘quiet’ days to make it even further accessible.
Join in with Roald Dahl Day on the 12th September. A much beloved author, why not celebrate Roald Dahl day by visiting the Roald Dahl Museum and Story Centre. They have just extended their ‘Imagining Fantastic Mr Fox’ exhibition throughout the month of September.
Pack up a picnic and get outside – the beach, the forest, even your garden and make the most of being able to sit outdoors whilst its still warm enough! When the weather starts cooling a must-have in our picnic basket is a thermos full of hot chocolate, perfect for both grown ups and little ones who need a warming pick-me-up.
Leaf Peeping! An American term for walking through the autumn woodland and enjoying the hues of the changing leaves. The further north in the UK you are the earlier the leaves will turn, so if you are based in Scotland expect some beautiful seasonal colours to start showing in the middle of this month.
Have a ‘Night Time Wildlife Adventure’ at Grange-Over-Sands in the Lake District. Perfect for older children, spend 3.5 hours learning about the nocturnal wildlife of the area. The night-vision goggles and bat-detectors will keep even the most tech-obsessed teens happy, and it’s a totally unique way to explore the outdoors.
Pumpkin spiced lattes might be back but instead of heading for the big chains why don’t you check out your local independent’s seasonal coffee offerings? @newgirlintoon recommends Kith and Kin for those of you living in the North East. The pumpkin spiced latte that they serve up features real pumpkin purée.
Try out a new recipe. September brings in a bountiful harvest of British grown fruit and veg. Beetroot, butternut squash and leeks provide inspiration for a veggie main course, whereas apples, damsons and plums cry out to be made into sumptuous desserts.
Maybe it’s not just the kids starting a new term this year? Are you needing to get organised for your own studies? If you’ve taken the plunge to start (or continue) some studying, here’s a fantastic article and some helpful tips to help balance studying alongside family life.
Make the most of any late summer days by getting outdoors to an adventure park. BeWILDerwood in Cheshire was recently reviewed by one of our mamas – her family had a great time!
Become a ‘Professor of Palaeontology’ at Paradise Park in West Cornwall. In between visiting the wonderful wildlife and playing in the outdoor and indoor play areas you explore the grounds to find dinos and their eggs. Find all the dinosaurs, and answer the questions to be awarded a ‘Paradise Park Professor of Palaeontology’ certificate.

14 Calling all mini rock n’ roll-ers! Born to Be Wild Child, known for their family rock and roll parties are branching out with an event in Belgrave Hall, Leeds on the 25th September. There’s a rock star fancy dress competition, themed arts and crafts, balloon drop, face painting and of course the best DJ’s in town.

For our Scottish readers, Wigtown is hosting it’s annual book festival from the 22nd September – 4th October and the line up is fantastic! From picnics in the park for the littlest of book lovers through to stargazing walks and author-led discussions there’s something for everyone!
Want to see the biggest pumpkin in the patch? Harrogate Flower Show is home to masses of beautiful seasonal floral displays but also hosts the Northern Championships for the National Vegetable Society. Expect massive marrows, colossal cabbages and towering tomatoes galore!
Warwick Castle is currently hosting ‘The Falconer’s Quest’ – watch up to sixty birds of prey take to the skies amidst the beautiful settings of the castle grounds.
Another one for Roald Dahl fans – the Chocolate Museum in Brixton is hosting a Wonka Bar workshop on the 12th September. Everything from the type of chocolate, the shape and the packaging will be chosen by your child… and I imagine there will be a lot of taste-testing too!
Go foraging! Blackberries are in season, and the dark purple berries can be spotted in most hedgerows. Avoid picking berries from beside busy roads, instead seek out quieter spots away from pollution.
Join in with our autumn bucket list over on Instagram – more fun ideas to do with your family and document throughout the season!

FACTORS TO CONSIDER WHEN BUYING YOUR FAMILY CAR

Filed Under: HOME // September 9, 2021

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Choosing a car can be a daunting task. There are so many different models and brands to choose from that it is hard to start. Your choice of family car will have consequences for years to come, so you must get the right one for your needs.

If you are unsure of where to begin or what to consider when buying a family car, here are tips to guide you.

Budget

The first thing to consider when buying a family car is the budget. How much money you can afford to spend on a vehicle will largely determine what type of car you end up getting and how long the ownership experience lasts.

Expensive cars tend to be safer, have better gas mileage, and require less maintenance in general. However, it is essential to keep in mind that the more expensive a car is, the higher the chance of something going wrong with it.

Therefore, it’s always best to have an emergency fund available if you happen to run into any financial troubles or problems with your vehicle. It is essential to consider researching available car offers to spend little money on a better car. You can begin by considering Aston Martin offers which are a pretty good deal on new cars.

Space and Capacity

This is especially important if you have a larger family. If your kids are using car seats, you need to ensure that there are enough seat belts for everyone in the vehicle. And of course, not every minivan can fit all three car seats across one row of seating – so consider this when buying your family car.

The other factor to consider when buying your family car is storage space. If you want to stand out from the crowd, consider purchasing a vehicle with extra storage space. If you have kids and lots of luggage or groceries when going on road trips, this is something to look for in your family car.

Future Plans

Consider your family’s needs and future plans before buying a car. For instance, are you planning on having kids soon? If so, consider purchasing a vehicle that can accommodate all of your family members comfortably.

Are you expecting to travel or frequently move in the next few years? A larger vehicle might be best if this is the case. You will want to consider each member’s needs. For example, if your child requires a car seat, are there enough seats for everyone?

The Timing

The timing is a factor to consider when buying your family car. Do you have children who are still in the school system? If so, then this could be an essential consideration for you.

It would help if you also thought about whether or not other members of your household will regularly use the vehicle and how far they may travel at times. Perhaps it would be a good idea to purchase a family car that has been built for those longer road trips to ensure that it will be comfortable for everyone to ride in.

You should consider the above factors carefully before you buy your new family car. Each element is essential and should depend on what matters most to you when purchasing a new vehicle for the whole family.

HANDLING YOUR CHILD’S EDUCATION ISN’T ALWAYS EASY

Filed Under: HOME, HOMESCHOOLING, MOTHERHOOD // September 9, 2021

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Handling your child’s education isn’t always easy. There are so many options and so many choices that you are going to have to make, meaning that it’s easy to get overwhelmed. The only thing that you can do is try to break everything down and hope that you can make sense of what is going on. In this article, we’re going to be looking at some information surrounding children’s education, so keep reading down below if you would like to find out more.

YOUR CHILD’S EDUCATION

Home Schooling

The first option that we have for you involves home schooling. This is a fantastic way to spend time with your child, ensure that they are learning things that are going to be helpful to their lives and so on. A lot of parents choose homeschooling if their child has issues with socialising, or if they feel as though the schools in the area aren’t up to standard. Don’t forget that the last academic year was done largely at home due to the COVID-19 lockdown that we faced, and we all survived that, didn’t we?

Don’t forget though, homeschooling doesn’t mean that you personally have to teach your child if you don’t feel qualified. You can hire someone to do this, it’s not an issue and it might actually be the better option.

Going To School

Of course, the other option is that your kids go to school. We understand that some parents are still nervous to send their kids to school due to the pandemic, but school can be really beneficial to kids. It helps to develop social skills, and ensures that they are taught by people who are qualified to do so, having expertise in certain areas of the curriculum. Trying to do what is best for your child isn’t always easy, but if you think about it, going to school gives them so many opportunities. They can join sports clubs, make friends their own age and a range of other things too. Starting out in a childrens nursery will aid them in development from a very early age, which could be the help you need as well.

Homework

Finally, when your child comes home with homework, how are you going to handle this? Are you going to make them sit at the kitchen table until it’s finished? Will you be able to help them? Sitting down and helping is a way to bond with your child, while also ensuring that they understand what is going on in their classes. The last thing that you want is for them to pretend they know when they don’t, and helping with their homework will give you a good idea as to what’s going on.

We hope that you have found this article helpful, and now see that while handling your child’s education isn’t always easy, if you break it down it’s a little easier to deal with. We’re not saying that you’re not going to have a tough time with it on occasion, but you will be able to get through it no matter which option you go for. We wish you the very best of luck and hope that everything goes okay!

HOW TO BUY THE BEST CLOTHES FOR YOUR BABY

Filed Under: BABY // September 9, 2021

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They grow so fast. You’re putting your baby in a newborn outfit and then you blink and they are 18 months old. Shopping for babies is just so difficult because there are so many great outfits out there that you want to see your little one in whether it’s little dresses or the cutest suspenders you have ever laid eyes on. The truth is, baby clothes have to be practical and durable for all that your baby is going to put them through. Here are a few tips for picking the best clothes for your baby.

Buy What’s Comfortable

Your baby is going to be doing a lot of sleeping. Even though someone purchased that cute little outfit for them, they won’t know the difference. Buy baby clothes that are comfortable. Just as we want to be comfortable while we are sleeping, your baby wants to be comfortable too. Buy lightweight fabrics like cotton that are breathable and soft on your baby’s skin. Also, buy outfits that are going to make it easier for you to remove when your baby’s diaper has to be changed, which is going to be about ten times a day at least.

Check the Quality of the Outfit

A lot of times, clothes are made so fast the stitching can be off or the cut can be askew. When those little outfits are being embroidered, they can go a little off unless the clothing is made in a reliable factory that uses Midwest Machinery embroidery machines. This is not always the case, so it’s best to check the clothing to make sure it was made to specifications and it was made to suit the comfort of your baby.

What’s the Weather Outside?

Buy ahead for your baby so that you aren’t stuck down the line. Determine what size your baby is going to be in what month so that you can match their outfit to the season. It is a good idea to have outfits for all four seasons of your baby’s first year of life. Snowsuits, sweaters, light jackets, and short sets are all good to have on hand in the proper sizes for your child. You are not going to want to have a summer outfit in a 5 month size if your baby is going to be a year old in the summer. Plan accordingly and save time and money.

Buy Machine Washable

There is no need for a baby to have dry clean only clothes. Everything you buy should be machine washable. Food is going to get spit up, food is going to spill, bottles are going to leak, and diapers are going to fail. Buy outfits that you can slip off of your baby and put directly into the washing machine. You are not going to want spills on something that can only be dry cleaned. You are so busy that by the time you get to the dry cleaners, that spill is going to be a stain that can’t get removed.