How to Survive Festivals with Kids
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It’s festival season! Which means that it’s time to get prepared to have lots of fun. If it’s your first time going to a festival with kids, we thought we’d put together a few tips on how to survive festivals with kids!
Read moreDay Out | Paddington Bear Afternoon Tea Bus Tour
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What do you think of when you think of London? Black Taxi Cabs? Red Phone Boxes? Scones & Afternoon Tea? How about a Paddington Bear Afternoon Tea on a Red Double Decker Bus touring around London? Can you get anymore British?!
Read moreThings to Do Over the Easter Holidays | 2023
Bunny baskets at the ready! To get your Easter off to an eggcellent start, we’ve rounded up a tasty variety of Easter activities taking place throughout the UK this Easter.
Overseas travel with a baby | things we packed
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This post was originally titled “long haul travel with baby”, however after talking to a few people, I quickly realised that it wasn’t long haul. It was l o n g e r. Glasgow, Scotland to Christchurch, New Zealand. Where most people consider flying UK to the USA long haul, you can’t really compare 9 hours on a plane to 30 hours in the air. So, ‘Overseas Travel with a Baby’ it is!
Read morePlanning the Perfect Winter Getaway
Planning on getting away during the winter months? While many people take their vacation time during the summer months, some of us like to save our getaways for later in the year. This might work better with your work schedule or you may find that the summer months and other peak periods have too high costs attached. If you’re planning a winter getaway, here are a few suggestions that could help you along the way.
Winter Sun
Many of us are seeking warm weather as the weather grows harsher and the temperatures drop where we live. The good news is that the weather isn’t the same everywhere, meaning that there are plenty of places in the world that can provide you with some winter sun. Browse a few locations and determine where you’d like to go. You could stay at the very popular Bellavida Resort, enjoying rest, relaxation, recuperation and everything you need to really unwind. Of course, when you start seeking sunny destinations, make sure to check other elements of the weather in the area. You may find that some places have hot weather but they could be going through hurricane season or monsoon season, which is best avoided.
Cold Getaways
If you don’t necessarily want to chase the sun, you may want to consider a cold getaway. There are plenty of winter breaks that are very enjoyable. A good option is a city break. City breaks tend to have sights and attractions that are available to see year round. Capitals tend to have the most to see and do. Another option is to engage in winter sports, such as skiing or snowboarding. These activities take place on resorts where you can enjoy comfortable, warm accommodation at the same time as having close and convenient access to the ski activities you’ll enjoy.
Festive Activities
There are plenty of festive activities you can take part in during your getaway too. Look up some of the best Christmas markets around the world, as these can be extremely fun to take part in. Some of the most popular tend to be in European countries, particularly Germany. Another option is festive winter activities such as ice skating on ice rinks in cities.
Preparing
Whatever you decide to do with your winter break, it’s important that you plan and prepare accordingly. Make sure that your passport is in date. You should have at least six months left on your passport when departing on your trip. Be sure to check restrictions such as Covid vaccination requirements and other travel vaccination requirements. You may need to take courses of medication, such as malaria tablets if you’re planning on heading somewhere with a risk of malaria.
Hopefully, some of the information above should help you on your journey to planning the best winter break possible. Whatever meets your needs, make sure to plan well in advance, as this will help you to make the most of the time you have away!
How To Help Your Child Grow More Independent and Curious
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As a mom, you want your child to grow up to be independent and curious. These are two of the most important traits a person can have. Luckily, there are many things you can do to help your child develop these qualities. This blog post will discuss some of the best ways to help your child grow more independent and curious. Keep reading for helpful tips!
What to do these Easter Holidays | 2022
We’ve heard that the Easter bunny is on his way to a town near you – check out the below for some ideas on what to do these Easter Holidays!
Day out in Glasgow (Riverside Museum, the Glenlee & Kelvingrove)
How often do you get to spend the day playing tourist in your own city? After some world travel, we returned home played tourist for the day with a day out in Glasgow.
THE BEST UK CHRISTMAS MARKETS
One of our favourite things about the festive period is the Christmas markets & they are all starting in the next week or so (if they haven’t already)! Is there anything better than getting wrapped up, eating lots of delicious food & shopping with lots of small businesses? We have put together a list of the best UK Christmas markets so hopefully there is one local to you on this list for you to check out. We’ve also included the dates they are running AND their exact locations to make it easier for you.
Make sure to follow us on Instagram where we will be sharing our Christmas market visits!
MANCHESTER – 12TH NOVEMBER 2021 TO 22ND DECEMBER 2021
📍 – MANCHESTER CITY CENTRE
YORK – 18TH NOVEMBER 2021 TO 23RD DECEMBER 2021
📍 – St Sampsons Square YO1 8QT
BIRMINGHAM – 4TH NOVEMBER 2021 TO 23RD DECEMBER 2021
📍 Victoria Square and New Street
GLASGOW – 6TH NOVEMBER 2021 TO 23RD DECEMBER 2021
📍 St Enoch Square
EDINBURGH – 19TH NOVEMBER 2021 TO 2ND JANUARY 2022
📍The West Princes Street Gardens, The George Street event & East Princes Street Gardens
WINCHESTER – 19TH NOVEMBER 2021 TO 22ND DECEMBER 2021
📍 Winchester Cathedral SO23 9LS
NOTTINGHAM – 4TH DECEMBER 2021 TO 24TH DECEMBER 2021
📍 Old Market Square & Trinity Square
CHESTER – 18TH NOVEMBER 2021 TO 22ND DECEMBER 2021
📍 Town Hall CH1 2HQ
NEWCASTLE – 29TH NOVEMBER 2021 TO 26TH DECEMBER 2021
📍 Grey’s Monument
Are you planning to visit any Christmas markets this year? Which is your favourite?
20 THINGS TO DO IN OCTOBER
Autumn is well underway and we are here to share 20 things you can do in October. We have Halloween parties, hashtag challenges & various expeditions that everyone can enjoy. Take a look and see if there are any in your local area.
- Do some seasonal baking! Our very own @simplytogether has got you covered with this easy vegan pumpkin spiced muffin recipe.
- The Ultimate Harry Potter Walking tour – Edinburgh
- Neon Lights, DJ’s and erm…. Steamtrains? This looks so incredibly exciting, not a combination I would ever have thought of but here we go- Pickering Light Spectacular, 23rd – 31st October.
- Well it wouldn’t be October without a pumpkin patch on the list! Tatton Park’s pumpkin patch is set in their beautiful farm, so following a morning of picking pumpkins little visitors can continue the fun by saying hello to some rare-breed animals and learning all about life on the farm. The Pumpkin Patch at Tatton Park. 23rd-31st Oct
- Get to know a tree at Hatfield Forest, Norfolk. Kick through piles of leaves as you search for a walking tree, a tree that’s grown, fallen down and re-rooted. Enjoy the autumn colours and explore this ancient woodland.
- Visit the home of Beatrix Potter, Hill Top in Cumbria and explore the beautiful gardens as they explode into autumn colour.
- Matlock Farm Festival is a fang-tastic Halloween festival, with pumpkin picking, headless horsemen and an enchanted forest to explore.
- Make your own scented playdough! It’s time to dig out those indoor activities as the weather’s beginning to change – and we’ve got a brilliant play guide to making your own scented playdough. Simple enough to make with your child, it’s two activities in one!
- Watch ‘UP!’ in Clifton Observatory, and feel like you too are flying high as you look over Avon Gorge and Clifton Suspension Bridge. I’m a sucker for an incredible venue, and Clifton Observatory really is quite special. Part of Bristol Film Festival, this promises to be great fun!
- October is black history month, and all month long you can celebrate black history and culture at Canary Wharf. The Crossrail Roof Gardens is hosting an exhibition all-month, as well as literature curated by Booker Prize winner Bernadine Evaristo.
- Have some half tern Halloween fun at Hever Castle. Come dressed in your spookiest outfits, plant garlic bulbs to ward off vampires and spot the Halloween decorations amongst the castle grounds.
- Junior Safari on Foot at Holkham Hall. This one’s for children aged between 7-14 but if you’ve got a budding naturalist visit the Holkham National Nature Reserve for a wildlife trek with an experienced guide.
- Chessington World of Adventures is getting spooooooky this Halloween with a fabulous cast of characters. Wild Witches, Plunderous Pirates and Barbaric Bandits unite in Halloween fun and games.
- Book your Christmas Events (if you haven’t already!). I know, I know, you haven’t even sniffed a whiff of the Halloween candy and I’m telling you to think about meeting the jolly old fella in red. But believe me, the most popular events get booked up quickly. And if you want to join in with a community of mums who know a thing or two about organisation @the_organised_mum on Instagram are tackling Christmas week by week to take out any last-minute stresses!
- Take part in a nature hunt around your local area!
- York Castle Museum, famous for its Victorian ‘street’, is hosting Halloween Traditions Family Tours. Discover past beliefs about witches and evil spirits as well as the history behind beloved Halloween traditions.
- Lego Lovers rejoice – I’ve got the event for you! Dublin’s Brick Show, taking place on the 30th/31st of October, features original models, loads of kids events as well as competitions and activities aimed at younger children. The list of models is impressive, featuring the UK and Ireland’s biggest Death Star and a 3m model of Kirwen Castle – but more importantly, the whole event is aimed at inspiring kids to create. One for any budding master builder.
- Get in the garden! As the air becomes a bit nippier, and the leaves begin to fall its easy to forget about your garden. But with a bit of preparation now, it will continue to reward you throughout the winter and blossom again come springtime. Start planting spring bulbs, a great job to get children involved with, mine love looking at the packets in the garden centre and marvel at the flowers that grow from bulbs that all look the same. Ward off vampires by planting garlic in the veg patch – a job best done in the autumn!
- Hallo’Welly’Ween at Wellington Country Park has activities for all the family to enjoy. From a pop up play village to story time in the big top, there’s plenty of fun to be had.
- Join in with our autumn hashtag challenge! A prompt for every day of October, whatever you are up to – take a snap and join in.
Heritage Open Days 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
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!
BeWILDerwood Cheshire Adventure Park
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Before COVID hit, we had planned and booked to go to BeWilderwood Original site in Norfolk as we loved the idea and the look of it. But then we had to cancel and a year later they opened a site in Cheshire which is much closer to us, safe to say we were really excited! BeWILDerwood Cheshire Adventure Park is the perfect family day out, it is based on the magical adventures of the books written by Tom Blofield, we haven’t actually read the books but we will definitely be buying them after our visit!
BeWILDerwood Cheshire Adventure Park
Cost, Location & Children Suitability:
Tickets are based on height so that the littlest amongst the family or the “Born to be Wild’s” are free and the taller you are (the more you can go on) the higher the price. Although we were given these tickets for free, we have already booked again to go and paid £78 total for us as we all fell under the tallest height bracket of 105cm and taller.
BeWilderwood is located in Whitchurch, Cheshire. It was about an hour drive from us in Manchester. Children and children at heart really are meant for here, every detail is just planned so that there is wonder wherever you turn. We saw children of all ages (grown up children too) enjoying all the different activities and truly enjoying themselves.
COVID Precautions:
The Experience:
The whole experience was brilliant, the wood is basically a giant circle so you can easily get around and pick and mix the areas you want to visit and in whatever order you want. We started with the Treacherous Trail, a wonderful walkway with gorgeous purple flowers and hidden treasures for you to discover! We headed over to Telescope tower to climb our way to the top, the views really are breath-taking, and same with the Broken Bridge, and the views from the top were gorgeous. We spent some time on the Slippery Slopes where the kids (and Graham) really had a blast going down the big slides.
We got lost in the Mish Mash Maze and wandered around for ages trying to figure out the way back out but it was so much fun, each picking a direction and seeing if we were right or (mostly) wrong! We also loved the sky maze, and the wobbly wires were so much fun. We love a good zip line in our house and the fact we could go side by side was brilliant, I also noticed a zip wire made for younger children too which I think is a brilliant idea so they don’t miss out. We created Dens together, checked out Boggle Village and BeWilderville and walked around the marshy moss.
We decided to stop and get something to eat at the Cosy Cabin, it was really busy but the BeWilder Banger was lovely and the kids munch boxes were brilliant. We caught the end of one of the Storytime Shows and it looked like so much fun, we didn’t catch the whole thing but when we go back we will make sure we catch one.
Tips & Recomendations:
BeWilderwood caters for everything you need really but here are some helpful hints for our next visit or your first one:
– Wear sensible shoes! Something you can climb in but won’t get wet if there are puddles (or just jump in them and enjoy the fun even more).
Overall:
The kids really enjoyed themselves, exploring and climbing and working their way through the obstacles. It really is a full day out, I think we were there from around 10:30 and we left around 2:30 so a good 4 hours. We could have stayed longer too to catch the Story time or the crafts in the Big Hat but we had Alice’s party to sort out the day after!
~ The Experience: 5/5
As always the kids pick the experience score so it’s a win from us! Check out BeWilderwood’s website here to get tickets.
*This post is a PR trip on behalf of That Mama Club, I was offered free tickets to attend and asked for content in the shape of Instagram stories, photos and a blog post. All observations and opinions are my own.
REVIEW & PHOTOS BY ASHLEE // @STICK_THE_KETTLE_ON
TMC #30dayswild Challenge
It’s Almost June, which means #30dayswild is back! #30dayswild was set up by The Wildlife Trust to encourage young people to get out in nature. It’s where you to do one wild thing a day throughout the whole month: for your health, well being and for the planet. The Wildlife Trust provide packs and materials and you can still sign up and join in, it’s completely free! Once signed up, you will be able to download and print and abundance of material and things to do throughout the month of June.
Here at TMC, we wanted to encourage you guys to join in with #30dayswild -So we have decided to ditch the normal # challenge for the month of June and create #TMC30dayswild challenge!!
How TMC #30dayswild Challenge Works…
Below, we have listed over 100 things/activities/outings for you to do – they are all nature based. They are split into groups, with each activity worth either 5 10 15 20 25 and a whopping 50 points depending on the group they are in.
The idea, is that if you would like to join in – please let us know. We will then create teams by a name picker or out of a hat via Instagram live. Then, throughout the month of June, you and your team pick and choose different activities from the list to do. You post on your socials – either stories, or a grid post – tagging us at @thatmamaclub, as well as your team mates and using #TMC30dayswild – then they are all in one place.
We will then keep a tally of our teams scores, either in the form of whatsapp/instagram team chats. Then, at the end of each week – we will see who’s in the lead..making it a bit of fun! Then, at the end of the month, we will see which team has won overall.
It’s all a bit of fun, encouraging us to get outside more! Please see the list of activities below…
5 POINTS
Egg Box colour hunt
Scavenger hunt
Tree markings
Nature based water play
Mud painting
Rock painting
Have a picnic
Play in the rain
Draw round shadows
Do some bird watching
Walk through the woods
Look for snails after it rains
Have breakfast outside
Read a book outside
Listen to birdsong
Paint pinecones
Leaf threading
Fly a kite
Rock balancing
Nature cutting tray
10 POINTS
Make a nature crown
Nature paint brushes
Nature bracelets
Bird feeders
Mix and match pebbles
Do some gardening
Leaf painting
Make a nature colour wheel
Look for mini-beasts
Build a den outdoors
Make a bee water station
Jump in muddy puddles
Nature sensory basket/bottles
Watch the sunset/sunrise
Do wildlife yoga outside!
Make your own binoculars
Watch a wild webcam
Climb a tree
Look for animal prints
Read nature based books
15 POINTS
Make a bug hotel
Stay up late to look at the stars
Make some mud pies!
Make a daisy chain
Camp in the back garden
Make a sundial
Cook outside
Make a sun print
Pond dipping
Make shapes out of nature
Make a fairy garden
Brew some petal potion!
Go on a leaf hunt
Forest bathing
Pick a wild bouquet
Eat something you’ve grown
Grow sunflowers
Make faces out of nature
Set up a mud kitchen
Make Nature scented playdough
20 POINTS
Water painting
Have a teddy bears picnic
Flower pressing
Go foraging
Make a rain gauge
Create nature masks
Nature bingo
Create a nature collage
Make a flower sun-catcher
Make flower pots out of tin cans
Create a stick wind chime
Make a stick fairy
Go on a flower hunt
Pick elderberries
Play Pooh sticks
Build a stick maze
Keep a Nature journal
Flower ice water play
Dye cloth using nature
Make tea from flowers
25 POINTS
Nature wings
Clay nature print ornaments
Homemade water colours
Wild weaving
Nature mobiles
Photographing wildlife
Nature wands
Make some nature mandalas
Wild flower bombs
Nature based playdough
Making a hedgehog out of clay and sticks
Find some elderflower
Make dandelion cookies
Create a butterfly table
Make a birds nest
Look at the clouds
Feed the ducks at a local pond (try getting bird seed instead of bread)
Create chalk art outside
50 POINTS
Have a plastic free day
Celebrate Summer Solstice on June 21st!
Beach Clean up
Littler Picking
Good luck! We can’t wait to see what you guys come up with for TMC #30dayswild challenge!
TRAVELLING WITH A TODDLER
WRITTEN BY CARLA MELLOR (GUEST WRITER)
“You must be mad, travelling with a toddler!”
We can’t argue with that, but we travel not to escape life, but for life not to escape us. Every year we choose to travel with our daughter Florence, who is currently 3 and it truly brings us together like nothing else. All family holidays are special, but when you hit the road for the best part of a month you really get to know each other, for better or worse and create some truly unforgettable memories.
Just to give you an idea, this is what our 2020 travel itinerary looked like: Verona, Salzburg, Lake Bled, Chianti, Amalfi Coast, Tropea, Palermo and all the spots in between in 25 days:
“I’d love to plan something like this but wouldn’t know where to start!”
Want to know the secret to planning this type of trip? Blagging it! The plan normally begins with a place or area that we’d like to visit, then we look on Google Maps and find that there’s somewhere beautiful only a few hours away. This tends to escalate quickly into a huge road trip that barely feels possible but fills us with excitement. So rather than overwhelming ourselves, we book our flights to create a start and end point and then the fun can begin with booking accommodation and transport along the way.
“But how do you book all of your hotels?”
We are massive Airbnb fans and very rarely stay in hotels. We love the flexibility, freedom and home comforts of having our own space, especially with a child. You can really make the space your own, whilst enjoying a more authentic experience in your destination. A few of our favourite memories for our Airbnb’s include picking fresh fruit and veg from the farm in Tropea, playing guitar and drinking homemade Galliano with a 10th generation local in Sorrento and accidentally booking accommodation in Florence with no wi-fi or TV (so peaceful). At the very least, you get the chance to speak to a host who can tell you the best places to eat and how to get around.
“But how do you afford it, it must cost a fortune?”
Our first holiday was travelling around Italy for 15 days, Florence was 5 months old and I was still on maternity therefore our budget was set at £1,500. Our most recent and longest trip of 25 days budget was £2,500. We always set limits on our accommodation of 50 pounds a night and work off that. The joy of being in charge of your own flights, accommodation and car hiring/ transportation needs is that it can cost you as much or as little as you want.
“I couldn’t think of anything worse than travelling with a child!”
We took our first travel holiday when Florence was 5 months old and in hindsight, this was probably the easiest holiday we’ve had. She napped on the food tray on the train, breast fed on gondolas in Venice, we even came on a wine tour in Chianti and she was the best behaved out of all the attendees. At this age, your baby is going to cry whether you’re at home or on holiday, so you might as well be somewhere beautiful. Some aspects change as they grow and you must adjust your itinerary accordingly, but you also get a lot more enjoyment from seeing them take in the experiences that you are introducing them to. We don’t feel that we’ve had to give anything up, you just have to make thing more exciting in the eyes of a 3-year-old. For example; Want to enjoy a morning looking at beautiful architecture? No, you’re looking for Disney Princess Castles. Fancy an afternoon enjoying a cocktail on the square? Let them have an ice cream or a fancy drink from the bar. Want to enjoy an evening meal as a couple? Not going to happen, but who needs romance when you’ve got a toddler playing hide and seek under the tables of the restaurant and getting everyone involved. Finally, it’s important to just slow down the pace and enjoy seeing things through their eyes
“Is it always smooth sailing because that’s how it looks on social media?”
No, of course not. In fact, here’s a few examples of when things have gone wrong:
Day 1 of our first ever family holiday, we were in Venice so took Florence around in her sling all day as the pram wasn’t an option. When we got back to our accommodation we realised that she had an awful heat rash and she cried all night. That was certainly a ‘what the hell are we doing’ moment.
Florence threw up all over her car seat, and we don’t mean one of those cute baby sick, the car seat was ruined! Luckily, we were on the way to the airport and managed to get there and get home. The car seat ended up in a skip at the side of the road.
Whilst we were checking into our accommodation, Florence wandered into the house for a look around. Little did we know that she had found a Birdseye chilli plant in the bedroom and decided that the little red things looked tasty! This resulted in us googling ‘Can my toddler get sick from eating a chilli?’ which returned a headline story about a toddler dying from eating a chilli in India. Anyway, after a few gallons of milk and a few cold yoghurts, she was fine.
Let’s add to the list getting stung by a jellyfish, stung by a wasp, pooping at the side of the road, you get the idea! I promise we’re not neglectful parents and these things always feel worse than they actually are, and we genuinely believe these things help to make memories, you’ve got to have a few negatives in there so that you can appreciate the positives.
With things up in the air due to the Covid-19 pandemic, we don’t know when we’re going to be able to travel again, but when you’re allowed to travel again, why not consider a real adventure to blow away those cobwebs we’ve gathered over the last 12 months?
YOU CAN FIND CARLA ON;
Instagram: Carla J Mellor
Blog: ohhbabyitsawildworld.com
FLYING WITH CHILDREN OF ALL AGES
WRITTEN BY LUCY MURRAY (GUEST WRITER)
Flying with children at any age is no mean feat. Gone are the days of just settling down on the plane, choosing your films and having a little snooze. Nowadays, travelling with kids may be less relaxed but it doesn’t mean that it has to be really stressful and no fun – promise! My family are lucky enough to have travelled many times already with kids during the baby, toddler and young child stage. This has been both solo, and all together, so below I have included some things that we have found useful on our travels. Hopefully, when we can all travel safely again, these tips will be helpful for you too!
Before
- Have a checklist a few weeks before you travel including what you want to pack for everybody and any questions you have for the airline. Such as their car seat policy and how to book special seats ( the bulkhead seats are really handy). Also check to see if they do kid’s meals and if you can pre book those.
- Think about seating. Can you all sit together or do you have to split up? Sometimes it can be easier to split the kids up and each adult takes one or two and sits somewhere different. It can often mean they behave a little better without their siblings, or both parents there, and you can swop them around at different intervals.
- Plan how you are going to get to and from the airport on either side – do you need to hire a car and do they come with car seats? Do you need to take a taxi? Quite a few places now also have ubers that can come fitted with car seats too.
- Check what time you land and whether you are allowed to check in straight away. If not, it’s worth asking about early check in or even just booking the night before so you can go straight into your room when you arrive. This helps avoid any hanging around with jet lagged and tired kids (and parents!)
- Tell your accommodation if you need cots, or smaller bed etc., and ask them to have it ready on arrival – you can also ask if you can get any items delivered there like nappies / milk/ snacks, as this will save packing space and any emergency trips to find the local supermarket when you arrive.
- Start preparing the kids for travel, we found watching a few programmes helped to get them excited.
- We like to have some sort of activity for the kids and an ‘emergency’ snack for each hour of the flight. We have been on some really long flights and this can be daunting so this helps to break it down into sections. Some of the things we have packed include:
- Magic pens and pads – the kids love them and limits the risk of anyone drawing on any part of the plane….
- Window gel clings. If you are sat near a window these provide so much entertainment For the kids.
- Their favourite book and a new book, or magazine, to try too for a treat. We often try to get a children’s book on the place we are going to visit too.
- A blank notebook and sticker pack will keep them entertained for quite a while.
- Download a few of their favourite programmes and some games onto a device if you have one as something different to what the plane might offer. It also helps if they are being fussy and you know you have something they love watching that can distract them for a bit.
- Different snacks you can pull out at different intervals , bonus if they take a while to eat, like raisins or a packet of smaller crackers.
- Pack of kids cards – could even be sight word cards etc.
- A special flight teddy – for my son’s first big flight where he was old enough to understand we got him a Jet teddy from SuperWings.
- Some child friendly antibacterial wipes.
- Kid friendly medicine as sometimes teething can happen or kids ears can be sore from take off.
- Be a smart packer, try not to be bogged down with lots of bags. When the kids got bigger I got them each their own rucksack and popped in their spare clothes, nightwear if it’s an overnight flight, and some of their activities and snacks. That way it gives them some responsibility and frees up your bag for any electrical, and liquid items, that you can pull straight out at security, rather than having to dig for them whilst trying to herd everyone through. I also took a rucksack myself instead of a suitcase as this meant both hands were free to keep a hold of any runaway kids.
- When packing the bags also think what you use , most or what order you will be using things in. I always pack changing items for younger kids near the top in a separate travel sack so you can grab when in a rush. I also pack a spare empty travel sack for any dirty clothes or used snack pots.
- Sometimes we split up during boarding, depending on how busy the flight is. If it is really busy one of us will go on with all the bags to make sure we can get them into the overhead lockers where we are sitting. It also gives the kids more chance to burn a bit more energy.
- If you have a child who has recently been potty trained or still has a few accidents pop them in a nappy for the flight before boarding as you can’t use the toilet during taxi, take off and turbulence. We just explained to ours that we still want you to use the toilet, it’s just in case the planes seatbelt light comes on.
During
- Always handy to smile at everyone and make sure to try to connect with the cabin crew – they can prove invaluable allies! Especially if you are flying solo with kids.
- Get some bits out for the take off and keep handy in the seat pocket.
- Make use of the entertainment system for the kids. We wait until after eating to start any films as it can be something to look forward too. We also brought children’s headphones so that they were comfier and had a volume limit.
- Even trips to the bathroom can be an activity so just use this as an excuse if the kids are getting cranky to give them a change of scenery (just make sure little fingers can’t press the emergency assistance button, and yes I learnt this from experience..)
After
- We always wait until the last people are getting off before we leave the plane as it usually helps to use some time up with less of a wait at the baggage carousel. It also means you can do a thorough double check to ensure no beloved teddies, or passports, are left behind without holding up other passengers.
- We always plan beforehand how we are getting to places and have a back up. We try to get through the airport as quickly as possible, including a bathroom stop, and then straight for taxi/rental area.
- When checking in, ask if they do anything special for kids – we once got a tent, teddy, snacks and a book set up in a room for us just because we asked and the kids were thrilled.
- Expect some tantrums and jet lag issues – try to stick to your usual routine if you can. However, if everyone wakes up in the middle of the night have a picnic and stick a film on – you will all get on track eventually.
- If you have any leftover snacks, or activities, from the outbound flight put them to one side so you can use them on the return flight.
Here are a few more specific tips for the different stages:
Travelling Whilst Pregnant
- Pack some compression socks, snacks and anti sickness bands.
- Wear comfy clothes – Maternity leggings , oversized top and bigger jumpers are your friends – you can always jazz it up with some lippy, scarf, hats and jewellery.
- Keep some pregnancy tablets/ vitamins in your carry on in case of delays or lost luggage.
- Go light with the carry on bag and don’t be afraid to ask for help putting it in the overhead compartment.
- Double check with the air stewardess that the in flight meal is ok for pregnant women.
- Drink water often. They also almost always have ginger ale which can help with any nausea.
- Remember to keep walking around at regular intervals.
Travelling With Babies
- Try to pre-book the bulkhead seats so you can get one of the airplane’s cots if they have one available. Don’t worry if you don’t get it as you actually have to get the baby out during turbulence, and seatbelt signs, so sometimes it can be detrimental.
- Try to get seats by the window so you and the baby can be nice and comfy for sleeping and feeding. It also offers you a bit more privacy and you won’t have to get up if anyone needs the bathroom.
- We found baby carriers invaluable round the airport and also on the plane if you need to take a cranky baby for a walk, or dance, around the plane.
Travelling With Toddlers
- Try getting them into the sleep pattern that might suit the flight before you go. Then if it is an overnight flight they will be more likely to sleep.
- Make it as fun as possible and don’t worry if a tantrum happens. Just handle it how you would normally and remember – you probably won’t see anyone on that plane ever again so don’t get too worried.
Travelling with Young Kids
- It starts getting a bit easier now, promise!
- We found the kids love it when they have responsibility so give them jobs- let them help pack their rucksack, carry it in the airport and be responsible for it.
- We found taking a game of eye spy for the airport was great fun for the kids, and you can get free downloadable ones you can print out and take with you.
Finally, flying with children of any age can be both hard and fun so try not to worry about it too much in advance – we found preparation helps and then you just have to go with it – delays happen, kids can have meltdowns or be fantastic, you just never know. At the end of the day as long as you all get to your destination without any Home Alone style disasters it is a huge win! You may just need a huge glass of wine, a workout or relaxing shower once the kids are asleep.
YOU CAN FIND LUCY ON;
INSTAGRAM: TRAVELLING MURRAY CLAN
THE YEAR OF STAYCATIONS
WRITTEN BY ROSHNI (GUEST WRITER)
We have the gorgeous Roshni sharing all about why 2021 is going to be the year of staycations and giving you a sneak peek into her STUNNING Dorset holiday home, that can be rented out on Air B&B.
Well hasn’t it been one heck of a year!? I remember this time last year we announced we were going to become a family of 4, we were over the moon (although very sick) and full of excitement spreading the news. I immediately jumped on the ‘let’s go on holiday before the baby gets here’ bandwagon as let’s face it, as magical as it is, it is so much hassle going on holiday with little ones; the luggage, nap times vs. taxi/flight times, the battle of getting them to eat dinner at the dinner table in a restaurant every night, it almost doesn’t feel like a holiday at times as it’s so much work.
So, we started looking and Italy was first on the cards, we’ve been so many times but there’s always somewhere new and beautiful to discover and the food I think you’ll agree, simply DIVINE! I don’t know about you but when I was pregnant it was all about the carbs (and desserts!!). But then suddenly, we went from shouting from the rooftops about the pregnancy, looking at holidays, to then being classed as vulnerable, being sent to work from home indefinitely and then a nationwide lockdown- a huge turn of events. One way or another, everyone’s lives had changed and here we are, one year later, still in lockdown.
We did manage to squeeze in a glorious summer though, how did you spend summer 2020? A lot of the UK flocked down here to the South Coast; I know this because in July we had just launched our very own Airbnb; Poole Retreat on the Green. Literally as lockdown was lifted and hospitality could resume, we thought it was all terrible timing with everything going on, but it worked out perfectly and we were fully booked. We gained 5-star reviews from all our guests making me an Airbnb Super Host! I can tell you it was a busy whirlwind of a summer.
Going back to the first lockdown we did a full renovation of the property which is a detached house in Poole Dorset. The house is split into two flats, we started with upstairs whilst the mortgage was finalising on downstairs. Right from the very beginning I wanted it to be a home away from home, all the things we look for when going away as a couple and a family. Rewinding even more, we moved to Dorset in 2018, 2 weeks before I had my first baby, crazy and against all health advice given to pregnant women, I know! It was not easy, especially with my mental health being up and down, but the healing ocean made it the best decision yet. With all that in mind, I wanted to create a space for people to come and feel the connection I feel with the coast and the outdoors, somewhere to escape from the everyday rush, explore the surrounding beauty and recharge.
Here at Poole Retreat on the Green we’ve gone for a ‘Scandi’ meets ‘Boho’ interior. The aesthetic opposites work beautifully in this space, giving a laid-back luxe vibe. A single, central walkway connects all the spaces; kitchen, bathroom, king size master bedroom, small double bedroom & living/dining area. With large windows across the front of the property, views of the green open space and glimmering blue of the sea in the distance, fills the space with light all day. We are moments away from the beautiful beaches along the Jurassic Coast, gorgeous coffee shops, endless walks in … you choose … the woods, forests, clifftops, sandy shores, you are literally spoilt for choice. It is simply the perfect getaway… at home, in England.
I do love a good Airbnb, UK or abroad, that is what we have used for years. I always look for pretty interiors with hosts that have outstanding reviews. It can be daunting booking on Airbnb for the first time, there is so much on there, but using the right filters and reading the reviews always helps with the booking process. To be honest I find it better than hotels, here are some of my pros:
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- It’s more of a personal experience communicating directly with the host
- There is the luxury of an entire property rather than a single room
- You can choose someone’s actual home or a property solely for holiday use
- It is so much more than a room booking;
- You can find somewhere with a living space to relax together as a family
- Have separate bedrooms to the kids (if they’re big enough of course)
- Have a kitchen to make what you want when you want
- Come and go as you please
- You don’t have to dread housekeeping walking in on your blissful lie in
- And most of all no rushing out your pyjamas and getting the kids dressed to make the breakfast cut off
- Overall, you get so much more for your money!
So what are we going to do this summer? Right now, there’s a sense of fear of the unknown given the current situation and not knowing where we will be in a couple of months. With COVID rates, vaccine effects, what we will and will not be allowed to do, we’ve seen things change so drastically how are we meant to plan summer 2021? Even if we can travel again, will we want to? It is becoming apparent staycations are the next best thing to getting away. There’s less risk of financial loss due to no added costs of; flights, transfers, hotels, insurance etc and most places in the UK are doing 100% refundable cancellations. With all the travel restrictions in place, time and effort lost to isolation on either side of travelling, staying put sounds like a holiday on its own! But is that such a bad thing?
There is so much beauty and positives for exploring right here at home in the UK;
- Gorgeous rolling hills of green in the countryside
- Stunning beaches all around
- We are a drive away from our homes
- We can travel in the comfort (& cleanliness) of our own cars
- Take as much as we see fit- just chuck it in the boot & under the seats!
- Support local, help build back the communities and businesses we once had
- Reunite with the friends and families we haven’t seen over the year
It sounds like it’s going to be the best summer yet, the year we can finally connect with our loved ones again – Summer 2021 – the year of staycations.
You can find Roshni’s gorgeous Air B&B rental by clicking here!
Instagram : Posh Lemons