That Mama Club

Better than sex maple bacon cupcakes

Filed Under: FOOD, HOME //

Let me guess, we had you at bacon? 😉 Happy Valentine’s day!

If what they say is true, that the way to a love’s heart is through their belly, maybe these will be a hit? They are a HUGE favourite among my friends, family and colleagues. I’ve made these maple bacon cupcakes a few times over the years, including a huge batch (over 300 maple bacon cupcakes) for a fund raiser.

Also, these cupcakes work great with gluten free flour, and can be made completely dairy free by using butter alternatives (this is actually how I bake them – making them gluten/wheat and dairy free).

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PINK KRISPIE HEARTS

Filed Under: FOOD, HOME //

When it comes to valentine’s treats, is there anything better than taking a family favourite and injecting some love?! We adore this pink krispie hearts recipe and dreamy photo submitted by Kirstie Crafts.

Picture of pink crispy hearts

Pink Krispie Hearts Ingredients:

Equipment:

Preparation:

  • Grease a baking tray with butter

Method:

  • Melt the 50g of butter in a pan over a low heat
  • Add in the marshmallows and stir until completely melted
  • Take off the heat and add a few drops of food colouring
  • Stir in the Rice Krispies
  • Press the mix into your baking tray and leave to cool
  • Once fully cooled cut out your pink krispie heart shapes with a cookie cutter
  • Push in a lolly/cake pop stick and enjoy your pink krispie hearts!

Looking for more valentine’s day ideas? Why not browse the links below:

VALENTINE’S ACTIVITIES FOR EVERYONE

VEGAN FRIENDLY VALENTINES COOKIES

AT HOME DATE IDEAS FOR EVERYONE

Enjoy these valentine’s day treats! – TMC team

Ad | this post contains affiliate links, view our disclaimer here.

Building stronger connections with your teenager

Filed Under: HOME, MOTHERHOOD //

 

CONNECTION WITH YOUR TEENAGER

When kids are small, they look to their parents for help in virtually every aspect of their life. But they become far more independent during their teen years as they continue to learn about themselves and the world around them. As a parent, you will have to let them grow and learn things for themselves. Nonetheless, you will want to maintain a strong bond, not least because they will inevitably fly the nest at some stage. Here are four great ways to achieve a connection with your teenager.

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6 Things You Don’t Expect To Feel When You Find Out You’re Pregnant

Filed Under: HOME //

find out you're pregnant

When you find out your pregnant for the first time, planned or not, it’s flipping scary. You begin to picture yourself with your little babe, holding him or her for the first time and picturing if they’ll have daddy’s eyes or mummy’s lips. It’s an exciting time and there are plenty of lovely thoughts to go with it. However, there are a lot of things that some may worry about at some point down the line. Those hormones like to make us panic a little bit and wonder what the hell are we doing. Even if this is everything we have ever wanted!

Oh shit, shit, shit. Do I even want children?!

For some unknown reason, there are those split moments when you realise how much life will have to change and it’s actually kind of scary and pretty darn overwhelming! Life before kids is quite nice isn’t it. You can sleep when you like, go on holiday whenever, stay up until god knows what hour and you generally don’t really have to think about anyone but yourself!

What If I Am An Awful Mum?

“Ok I’ve never done this before, what if I’m terrible at it? What if he doesn’t like me? What if I forget to feed/bath/wind/change him?!”.

I’m pretty sure every first time expectant mum goes through this little stage. The fact you are even questioning if you’re going to be a good mummy or not, already makes you a good mum. You got this!

How The Eff Am I Going To Push An Actual Human Being Out Of My Lady Parts?

A woman’s body is bloody amazing thing, we are made to be able to do this. Try and get in tune with your body, deep breaths and try not to panic!

Following on from that… Will My Lady Parts Ever Look The Same Again?

Does it go back to normal? Will I be able to pee like normal? Is sex ever going to be the same? Can I even do that again?

Stop panicking. It takes time… but you’ll get there. It’s different for every woman, but like we said above, your body can do this!

What If I Poop Whilst Pushing?

This is something we’ve all had nightmares about at some point. What if you’re pushing and pushing your precious little bean out and all of a sudden, a little pre-birth present arrives for everyone to see?

In reality, when it happens, if it happens (it probably will), you won’t even notice. The midwives whip it away that quickly, that no one tends to really notice anyway. If someone does notice, are they really going to tease a hormonal woman who’s in the middle of pushing a person out their vagina? I don’t think so!

Ok, So How The Heck Am I Going To Afford This?

Pushchairs, cots, bedding, bottles, toys, clothes, changing mats, burp cloths… jeeez these kids need a lot of things don’t they! One thing we will say – you don’t need it all, there are clever marketing tricks that make us first time mums panic if we don’t have it all. That gorgeous changing basket you’ve been seeing all over Instagram IS gorgeous, but you’ll most likely be changing baby on the floor most of the time!

Obviously all these thoughts are very natural, your body is going through a huge change and an increase in hormones are playing a huge part in how you feel. It’s completely normal to feel overwhelmed or nervous, it’s a scary process, especially if it’s your first baby.

All we can say, is that IT’S GOING TO BE OK, YOU GOT THIS MAMA!

POST-PARTUM DEPRESSION AFTER PREGNANCY AT 40

Filed Under: BIRTH, HOME, POSTPARTUM //

DEPRESSION AFTER PREGNANCY

There are many factors that lead to depression after pregnancy. I am mentioning a few factors below:

Postpartum depression, or peripartum depression occurs after a woman gives birth. Within a few hours of giving birth the amount of the two female hormones, estragon and progesterone, return to their pre pregnancy levels. Many researchers feel that this drop in hormone levels,
much like the smaller changes in hormone levels can affect a woman’s mood just before her menstrual cycle, is one of the causes of postpartum depression. It is more like an unexplained sadness & depression. It is a feeling where you feel bad, guilty, helpless & in pain just to explain it in words.

1. Genetics – One factor that can lead to postpartum depression is genetics. This type of depression can be passed down from mother to daughter. There is also a correlation between postpartum depression and women who suffer from severe premenstrual syndrome.

2. Hormone levels – As I have mentioned earlier changes in the hormone level also plays an important role in postpartum depression

3. Baby Demands – In the initial days babies can be very demanding, making the new moms so busy that they don’t get time for themselves which leads to depression.

4. Labour – Going through labour is in itself very stressful which after the birth of baby takes its toll on the health of new moms. This in return turns into depression.

5. Self-doubt – Many new moms go through the self doubt process where they doubt the ability to be a good mom & be able to do the right things for their babies.

6. Family disconnect – With all the time taken by the baby new moms can have a disconnect with the family. They can go through the feeling of loneliness even when whole family is present as they are completely busy taking care of the newborn.

This also can lead to depression To be honest after my first baby was born when I was 30, I didn’t experience any kind of postpartum depression. But when I gave birth to my second baby, when I was 40, I underwent postpartum depression. So after my Pregnancy at 40 I understood what Post Partum Depression actually is.

When postpartum depression kicked in I felt sluggish, unconnected to reality, and often underwent several other symptoms that include depression. During my postpartum depression (PPD) at 40, I would often go through bouts of crying uncontrollably and very seldom with any particular cause. I would feel emotionally charged all the time & my emotions would often play tricks on me. My postpartum depression at 40 also lead to some sleepless & troubled nights. Once a baby is born the family, friends, mother and so forth are suppose to join in a joyful expedition. But in my case I went through postpartum depression and the birth seemed more like a painful expedition than a joyous moment.

Instead of sharing a happy moment I often felt a sense of guilt because I felt a kind of resentment in me. The whole giving birth process seemed like an inflicted pain than joy. Then all of a sudden, I would begin the feeling of sadness, despair, worthlessness, and insomnia kick in. Most professionals will treat postpartum depression with antidepressants combining it with therapy. In my case, I did not undergo any kind of therapy because, luckily for me, my postpartum depression didn’t last for too long a period. But it is important for mothers with postpartum depression to seek help immediately, since the depression does not only affect the patient, it affects everyone around you, including your baby. Babies need their mother, and when the mother is unable to provide emotional nourishment and loving care, then the baby will suffer as it grows into adulthood.

Just like any diagnose there are triggers that may interrupt the mother, including difficult births, isolating one self, death, changes in living arrangements, hereditary, financial difficulties and so forth. Unfortunately, some of these triggers are going to happen. Most therapists have found treating women with postpartum depression, treating them with antidepressants and therapy has worked wonders. Recently studies are finding that depression may also be treated with Electroconvulsive therapy. Scientists are constantly searching for a solution to treat depression so the end of the world hasn’t arrived.

REF: The Best Ways To Treat Postpartum Depression – HealthPrep.com

There is hope. Studies have also shown that writing down your episodes, feelings and so forth is a great therapeutic relief. Talking is also a great source for eliminating stress, which is often linked to depression. It is important to get regular check-ups after your baby is born to
eliminate biological reasoning for the postpartum depression. In most cases, doctors may prescribe different medications. It depends on the person, but for some mothers one or the other medications work, while others have no results. If you are suffering postpartum depression, it is also important for the family to offer support and understanding.

Since, you may have suicidal thoughts the last thing anyone needs to do is push you over the edge. It is also important that the resentment you feel is not necessary toward your baby. It could be that you resent an area of your life, or an occurrence and the baby seems to be the target. You might want to try listening to easy music when you feel a sense of loss, or episodes of the depression erupt. Music has proven to heal the soul. In addition, you might want to start exercising since this too has proven to do wonders with people that suffer mental or physical illnesses. Exercise relieves the mind often because you are doing something to better yourself and improve your health. To sum it all, the biggest difference that I felt between Postpartum at 30 & Postpartum at 40 is the depression & physical pain that I went through. With the passage of time, the recovery path has also been fine.

I had good family support during both my deliveries which helped me overcome my pain & depression. Therefore, if you are in postpartum depression especially after 40, there are answers and you should never give up hope! So let’s leave the Post Partum depression behind us as a bad dream & let’s give our motherhood foremost significance in the whole journey of Parenthood.

Bio :

I am Rupali Paul, a Mom of two kids, one teen & another a toddler and I blog in the Parenting niche.
I write blogs on various Parenting & Motherhood topics primarily. I also blog on topics pertaining to Travel with Kids & review various products relating to Mom or Kids. All in all a Blog which caters to family topics surrounding Mom, Dad & Kids and their Life.

You can find my blog at https://momkidlife.com
Instagram handle @momkidlife
Twitter handle @momkidlife
Pinterest handle @momkidlife
Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/momkidlife

SEAMS Indulge Hand Cream Set | Review

Filed Under: HOME, LIFE, LIFESTYLE, SELF CARE //

SEAMS hand cream

SEAMS is a London founded company, launched by Karen J after many years of working in the fashion & beauty industry. Karen was looking for a hand cream that could be used quickly throughout the day and wouldn’t transfer any grease onto fabrics, she struggled to find one so set out to create SEAMS Hand Cream. A special Biomimetic Lipid Complex ensures the formula instantly melts in the skin and locks in moisture! Karen’s strong sense of smell lead her to create our signature Amber Cocoon scent, a clean fresh cotton fragrance that doesn’t linger on the skin.

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MOIST AF BANANA BREAD

Filed Under: FAMILY RECIPES, FOOD, HOME //

Sorry if you don’t like the word “moist”! There really is no other word for it. This banana bread from @feedingtheirfutures is moist as you like, plus it’s grain-free, refined-sugar free and packed with nutrients, so perfect for kiddie winks. (The spices make your kitchen smell like heaven while it’s cooking too).
To “healthy it up” she’s switched out the usual nutritionally-void self-raising flour for a mixture of almond flour (full of healthy fats) and hemp seed flour (an excellent source of plant-based protein and fibre). If you can’t get hemp seed flour, any other plain flour will do the job. She’s also exchanged the usual refined sugar for a combination of mashed bananas and maple syrup making it much more baby (and waistline) friendly.

Here are the ingredients:

  • 1.5 cups almond flour (ground almonds)
  • 1/2 cup of hemp seed flour (or any other plain flour e.g. wholemeal, spelt, white)
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 1 tsp bicarbonate of soda
  • Pinch of salt
  • Spices – 1 tsp each of ground cinnamon, ginger & nutmeg
  • 3 tbsp hemp seed oil or olive oil
  • 3 free range eggs
  • 3 ripe bananas
  • 1/2 cup maple syrup
  • 1.5 tsp vanilla extract

The Method:

  • Put all the wet ingredients in a food processor and mix well. You can whisk it by hand if you don’t have a food processor – just mash the bananas first.
  • Put all the dry ingredients into a large bowl and mix to combine. Add the wet ingredients to the dry and mix well.
  • Grease a loaf tin then pour in the mixture.
  • Bake at 170°C for 45 mins or until a knife comes out clean.

Please give this banana bread recipe a go & tag us if you do! Don’t forget to check out the wonderful Claire’s website where she shares so many delicious recipes that are perfect for the whole family.

DECEMBER BOOK CLUB PICK 2021 | JUST HAVEN’T MET YOU YET BY Sophie Cousens

Filed Under: BOOKS, HOME, THAT MAMA BOOK CLUB //

Welcome to the final book club review of 2021! How did we get here already? It’s been an amazing first year; we have a fantastic club full of beautiful, intelligent women and a huge year with even more bookish fun lies ahead. Our first ever book club pick back in January this year was This Time Next Year by Sophie Cousens, so when we heard that her second novel, Just Haven’t Met You Yet, was being published in November, fate had decided on our final book club pick of 2021.

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TOP 10 POSTPARTUM ESSENTIALS

Filed Under: BIRTH, BREASTFEEDING FRIENDLY, HOME, MOTHERHOOD, POST BABY, POSTPARTUM, SELF CARE //

While everyone loves to support you with what you’ll need (and potentially don’t need) when you’re pregnant, quite often us poor old mums get left by the wayside once we’ve popped out our cute little nugget. We’re left to fend for ourselves amongst leaking boobs, saggy skin and stinging bumholes and quite frankly, the postnatal fuss that we deserve is lacking! Here is our guide of Top 10 Postpartum Essentials that you need to make that time after birth just a little bit easier.

Bits to add to your basket…

 

1. The Peri Bottle

One thing they do not tell you after childbirth is the fear that comes with going to the toilet, especially after an episiotome.  The peri bottle (or any bottle of lukewarm water) is a lifesaver; simply spray or pour it on you urethral opening to dilute your urine and take away the sting!

 

 

2. Breast Pads

Whether or not you choose to breastfeed your child; once your milk has come in you’re going to leak – it’s science! Getting caught unawares while you’re chatting to the postman is a nightmare. You need

something to back you up and soak up that colostrom if your boobs start to gush like the Trafalgar Square fountains.

You can choose to get re-usable breast pads (bonus points for eco-friendly options mama!) like these ones from Simply Gentle, or you can go for the disposable option like these Lil-Lets on Amazon!

 

3. A GOOD Nursing Bra

Did you know it’s possible to wear a nursing bra and still feel sexy? In a time when we probably feel a bit like a slovenly blob, having that little sneaky pick-me-up while remaining comfortable and practical is amazing! These HOFISH Seamless bras from Amazon are comfortable, wash well and look great on! *Tried and tested by our own TMC admin!*

 

 

4. Epsom Salts

Soaking in a warm bath full of Epsom salts. as often as you can, can lessen swelling and promote healing in the most delicate of areas. Epsom salts are gentle so while they’re doing all the good stuff, you can be sure that they won’t sting or ache while you’re having a soak!

 

 

5. Donut Pillow

Postpartum mamas have a special place in their heart for the donut pillow and we can’t blame them! When you’re resting as much as possible at home, sitting can become painful (tenfold if you’ve got stitches to contend with). Donut pillows give an added reprieve for your toosh that you won’t know you need until you do!

 

6. Nipple Cream

Stinging bums, sleepless nights and cracked nipples – it just gets better and better doesn’t it! Having a nice, soothing cream will do wonders for when your nursing and your nipples start to become tender. Use it after each nursing session to reduce pain and keep your nipples moisturised. If you treat yourself to this Burts Bees cream your nipples will smell great too!

 

 

 

7. Stool Softeners

That first poo after having a baby can be pretty horrifying. The last thing you want is to work to push out your poos if you’ve had to push a baby out less than 24 hours before! Dulco Soft is amazing with helping your body while it readjusts and preventing haemorrhoids too.

 

 

 

8. New Pyjamas

Do I need to say anymore? You’ve just given birth mama, you deserve a pair of clean, soft pyjamas and some nice warm socks! These pjs from Marks & Spencers are stylish and made using the M&S Better Cotton Initiative, so you’re doing your bit for the environment whilst treating yourself too!

 

9. Vitamins

With the blood loss, sleep deprivation and trauma that your body has been through; you need to make sure you’re getting everything you (and your baby) needs! Pregnacare are an amazing brand with postpartum vitamins that are jam-packed with all the good stuff that your body needs to get back on the road to recovery. If you’re breast-feeding, Pregnacare also have their breastfeeding postpartum range of vitamins that means you can ensure your babies safety while taking them too.

 

10. Breakfast Tray

One of the the hardest things to do as a mummy, especially a new mummy, is rest. Our brains go into overdrive with all the things we need to be doing for our little one (and hopefully for ourselves too). While you’re feeling tender, save yourself some trips by setting up a little breakfast tray – or ask your partner to realllyyyy nicely – just so you can at least create the illusion that you’re taking it easy!

 

 

OUR POSTPARTUM LIFESAVERS

ASH: “Having a beside cot is a must! Working in a kids store I never really thought they were a necessity but they were a dream with Laila. A boppy pillow was amazing for my son’s silent reflux too.”

CHARLIE: “I had an episiotomy with my first son and lavender essential oil baths were a god send for healing!”

CHARLOTTE: “Cloth breast pads. Whether you choose to breastfeed or not, there’s a good chance your body will produce milk! With cloth breast-pads, they are super soft and absorbent, and you can pop them in the wash so you’ll never run out! Well.. those and a HUGE backlog of bingeworthy TV!”

JADE: “Adult nappies were my best friend for the week after Grayson was born. Nobody tells you just how much you bleed after giving birth, so having a failsafe giant hug wrapped around my vagina was a huge welcome. Plus, they were nice and stretchy, which is always a bonus!”

JOSIE: “For anyone that has had an emergency c-section I would strongly recommend peppermint tea as part of your recovery! No one tells you about the excruciating pain you can be in from built up air inside you, and it was only when my sister-in-law told me about it three days in my pain started going away. Who knew built up gas could be so painful!”

 

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January Self Care Ideas

Filed Under: HOME, LIFESTYLE, MENTAL HEALTH, MOTHERHOOD, SELF CARE //

self care ideasIt’s January, it’s 2022 and it’s time to make some time for YOU! We’re all run ragged after the hustle and bustle of the Christmas period, so what better time to slow down and take care of yourself. Here’s a few self care ideas to make time for just you, whether you take a day to yourself of just ten minutes of your day, there’s something you can do that is solely to make you feel good.

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WHAT’S COMING TO NETFLIX IN JANUARY 2022

Filed Under: ENTERTAINMENT, HOME, LIFE //

As you have probably gathered by now, we are huge fans of streaming services & Netflix is constantly providing us with brand new content – including firm favourites we know & love and brand new exclusive content. We have put together a selection of all the best things coming to Netflix in January 2022.

Netflix in January 2022

Queer Eye Season 6 – January 1st

We are SO glad this is back! The FAB 5 are back on our screens doing what they do best and we all know it’s going to be emotional. If you haven’t watched Queer Eye before, you need to rectify that right now. It is so wholesome, hilarious & fun!

Cheer Season 2 – January 12th

Another reality show but this one is BRUTAL. Think Dance Moms but cheerleaders. We never gave much thought into how hardcore cheerleading is as it’s not really a thing in the UK but for America – it’s a huge deal and this series really shows that!

Brazen – January 13th

This film is a Netflix exclusive following a mystery writer who needs help when it comes to solving her sister’s murder. We love an easy watch & this sounds like just that!

After Life Season 3 – January 14th

The show is a dark comedy drama which follows the life of a man named Tony (played by Ricky Gervais) in the immediate aftermath of losing his wife to cancer. It’s equal parts hilarious & oh so heart breaking. Definitely one to watch.

Too Hot To Handle Season 3 – January 17th

Ahhhh reality tv at it’s finest and this is one of our favourites. It’s super fun, cringe & binge worthy! It’s also hell-a sexy, think of it as Love Island back when it was fun & also a much more interesting concept.

Annabelle Comes Home – January 17th

If you are a horror film all year round kinda’ person – Netflix has some great ones! Being added this month is a favourite from the Annabelle/Conjuring series. The Annabelle films are about a haunted doll that scares the shit out of everybody. ENJOY.

In From The Cold – January 28th

An American single mum must juggle family life and unique shape shifting skills when she is exposed as a ex-Russian spy. This show is said to be exciting & suspenseful.

 

 

 

 

5 BLOGS TO READ IN JANUARY

Filed Under: HOME, LIFE, LIFESTYLE //

BLOGS TO READ IN JANUARY

Happy New Year! We hope you had a lovely festive season and Christmas. We are ready and raring for 2022 – it is the ultimate fresh start and we are ready to kick arse on all our goals! A brand new month means brand new advertisers and we have some amazing bloggers to share with you!

AD – FOR MORE INFORMATION ON OUR ADVERTISING PACKAGES CLICK HERE

BLOGS TO READ IN JANUARY:

First up we have Chloe, more widely known as Nyxie online. She is a twenty-something cat mum with a passion for writing, illustrating & video games. Her writing is predominantly focused on mental health, general wellness & eating disorder recovery. This list has evolved over time & she’s been known to take on book reviews, interior advice (in regards to mental wellness) & even articles on pet care. She even goes as far as discussing more controversial topics such as feminism, feminine health &  inequality in Northern Ireland.

BLOG POSTS TO CHECK OUT:

blogs to read in January

Next up we have the lovely Vourneen! Welcome to The Plain Simple Life! I’m Vourneen: Minimalist, professional de-clutterer & organiser, Christmas fanatic and certified coach. I help overwhelmed women to regain control of their homes by switching their mindset, decluttering and organising and introducing simple and sustainable living practices into their daily routines.

BLOG POSTS TO CHECK OUT:

Jenny is a blogger who creates content on blogging, well-being and self growth, aimed to guide bloggers to grow and gain confidence in the industry. But you might also find a bit of beauty, travel and Disney from time to time too.

She has been blogging for over 6 years, having started out just reviewing books and have been a full-time blogger for around 2 and a half years. Despite having started as a very niche hobby over time, she grew to enjoy expanding her topics more and more and she firmly found her feet within the “lifestyle” sector.

BLOG POSTS TO CHECK OUT:

blogs to read in January

Sarah, An established content creator trying to make her way in life. You can expect to find posts about lifestyle, eco swaps, veganism and Netflix recommendations. Sarah create content that’s designed to make you feel better about things. She has been living in Harrogate, North Yorkshire for 5 years now and have grown to love its many charms. Sarah enjoys walking in the Yorkshire Dales and documenting her travels.

BLOG POSTS TO CHECK OUT:

Last but certainly not least, we have Jamie! Jamie shares all things book – whether it is short stories or reviews. He also has his debut book; The Fathers, The Sons & The Anxious Ghost that is out NOW in paperback & kindle.

BLOG POSTS TO CHECK OUT:

There you have it, 5 blogs to read this January! Do you have a favourite blogger? Do any of these blogs catch your eye?

Want to feel like an amazing parent?

Filed Under: BABY, HOME, MOTHERHOOD //

Everyone wants to be a great parent. Figuring out how to do so can be complicated, however. It’s not as though you’re handed a manual once your child is born. That could lead to you looking for things to do when you feel like a bad mum or dad. It could also make you strive to do better. There are multiple ways to be an amazing parent. It doesn’t have to be as difficult as you’d think. Doing everything you can to make the best decisions for your child will be enough. You can do that in a few ways. While it’ll take effort, it’s much simpler than you’d expect.

an amazing parent

Easy Ways To Be A Great Parent

Be A Role Model

It’s easy to tell your child how they should behave. It’s harder to show them, although it’s something that you’ll need to do. You should be a good role model.

People learn by imitating, especially during their early years. Being a positive example during this time is essential.

Your child is likely to do as you do. If there’s something that you don’t want them replicating, then don’t engage in that behavior.

The opposite can be said for positive behaviour you want them to engage in. The more you do it, the more they will. It could also be a great way to build a relationship with them.

Show Your Love

There’s no such thing as loving your child too much. You’ll need to show them that you love them, however. That shouldn’t be done with presents.

If you typically show your love by giving gifts a lot, you could spoil them. It’s much more recommended that you show them with acts of love, such as hugs.

Spending time with them as much as you can is also suggested. It’ll show them that you support them and are there for them without spoiling them.

Talk With Your Child

You’ll already know the importance of communication in daily life. That’s especially true with work and with your partner.

Many people overlook it when it comes to their child, however. You’ll need to communicate with them regularly, regardless of what age they are.

That doesn’t simply mean talking to them. You’ll need to be an active listener. Doing so will help your relationship with them flourish.

There are other benefits to this. You can help their brain develop. By using their brain to communicate regularly, your child exercises certain parts of their brain.

That should be enough of a reason to speak with them as much as you can.

How To Be An Amazing Parent: Wrapping Up

Everyone wants to know how to be an amazing parent. While there’s a lot of advice that you can follow, these can depend significantly on you and your child.

You’ll need to adapt to you and their needs and preferences. Focusing on their best interests will be a priority.

Doing so will make sure that you’re an amazing parent. While your child mightn’t always agree with you, looking out for them will be the most effective way of parenting.

COPING WITH ANOTHER CHRISTMAS IN A PANDEMIC

Filed Under: Christmas, HOME //

Christmas in a pandemic

 

This time last year, I think all of us hoped that we wouldn’t still be worried about the pandemic during Christmas 2021. By all means, things aren’t anywhere near as bad as they were a year ago, but there’s still a lot of talk on the news about more restrictions and the possibility of Christmas being cancelled yet again. Let’s be honest, it’s not the best way to get excited for the holiday season, especially as much of your life is still being affected by what’s going on around us. Some families are worried about what to do regarding seeing friends or family this year, and there are other common issues – like how you’ll afford Christmas – that are made even worse after another topsy-turvy year. So, I thought I’d put together a short article to help you cope with another Christmas in a pandemic!

 

Follow the rules

Whatever the rules are where you live – and yes, this can be super confusing knowing what they are – you should do your best to follow them as strictly as you can. Regardless of whether you agree with them, the rules do exist to try and make everyone safe. It’s a good idea to stay updated with alerts on your phone so you never miss one of the many press conferences. Remember, if you live in Wales, Scotland or Northern Ireland, most of what BoJo says won’t refer to you – we need to check our own local government guidelines. 

 

Save money

Christmas is usually a time to splash the cash and treat those you love. You can still do the second part of this, but it’s a good idea to save money wherever possible. Some of you might already be struggling to pay for Christmas after being laid off or taking a lot of time off work with the virus during the year. While things like payday loans or credit cards could help you, the best approach is to reduce your spending. Find ways to save money this Christmas – like this very cheap Christmas dinner idea from BBC Good Food. 

 

Take regular tests

If you are worried about seeing other people, or having friends and family over your house this Christmas, one way to ease those fears is by taking regular tests. You can order lateral flows or PCRs online and it’s a good idea to take a few in the days leading up to your Christmas gettogether. Get your guests to test as well and you can hold a little party or gathering feeling safe as everyone is negative. 

 

It is sad to think of yet another Christmas in a pandemic, but at least things are more relaxed than they were last year. We currently can still see other people, but it’s still strange to think that 2019 was the last year where we had a proper Christmas. Hopefully, you find these tips helpful and can cope with the festive fun in 2021. Be sure to stay safe and keep your family protected, and you can still have a good one this year.

20 Hauntingly Beautiful Books To Read In The Winter

Filed Under: BOOKS, HOME, THAT MAMA BOOK CLUB //

Winter is here! While the biting wind is whipping against the window panes, there is nothing more comforting than curling up under a huge blanket and reading chillingly beautiful stories. I don’t know about you, but this time of year is perfect for reading books with haunting tales and ghostly happenings. Keep reading to see TWENTY books that we recommend this Winter.

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How to Help Your Child’s Academic Performance

Filed Under: HOME, KIDS, KIDS CLUB //

How your child performs at school can impact their whole lives. If they get the grades they want, they will be able to go on to the colleague and university that they want to and study at. Then eventually, they will be able to get the job of their dreams. So, as a conscientious parent, you will be wondering how you can help your child achieve academic success. Luckily there are many things you can do this, and this blog highlights a few ways to help your child’s academic performance:

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