I am always on the hunt for things to do in the Midlands which don’t cost the earth and keep the kids busy. Arlo is growing up, so I can’t use the “kids under three go free” deals anymore on family days out. I’m constantly searching for cheap things to do in Birminghm and … Read more
Birmingham offers an array of indoor family activities for rainy days, from Star City’s laser tag and games to Cadbury World’s chocolatey delights. Attractions like Rock Up Birmingham provide climbing challenges, while educational experiences can be found at Thinktank Science Museum. Nearby, the Butterfly Farm and Splash Landings offer immersive nature and water-based fun, respectively. For movie fans, local cinemas provide a dry escape, and thrill-seekers can visit the Bear Grylls Adventure. All these and more ensure kids and adults alike have ample entertainment, regardless of the weather.
Planning a holiday as a single parent can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. After putting off an international trip for years, I finally took the plunge and booked a package holiday to the Algarve with my seven-year-old son. In this post, I share how I simplified the planning process, found the best deals (including Jet2’s single parent discount), and tackled common worries like budgeting and solo travel logistics. If you’re a single parent dreaming of a stress-free getaway, this guide will help you take that first step toward an unforgettable adventure.
There’s something about spring that just feels like a reset. Maybe it’s the sunshine starting to peek through or the buzz of Easter holidays, but it always gets me in the mood for fresh air, animals and a bit of adventure. Last weekend we packed up the car and took a trip to Cotswold Farm … Read more
The joy of planning your dream garden can quickly turn to regret when you realise you’ve invested in a paddling pool that’s now sitting deflated in the shed or a massive slide that’s never used. We’ve all been there—getting swept up in a Pinterest-perfect vision of what our outdoor space could be, only to find … Read more
Surviving Hay Fever Season: My Reality as a Mum, Teacher, and Lifelong Snuffler For as long as I can remember, hay fever has been an annual battle I didn’t sign up for. It’s not just the odd sneeze or a bit of sniffing. It’s the full package: itchy, streaming eyes, nose like Rudolph, and that … Read more
Looking for a simple and fun Very Hungry Caterpillar craft to do with your little ones? This easy egg box caterpillar activity is perfect for preschoolers and early years children, especially if you’re reading the beloved Eric Carle book or watching real caterpillars grow at home. We’ve been keeping a close eye on our Insect … Read more
Today we spent the day at Trentham Gardens and it was absolutely beautiful in the spring sunshine. We went mainly for the Shaun the Sheep: Find the Flock trail, but ended up doing so much more than we planned. From fairy hunting to barefoot walks and lakeside daisy chains, it turned into the kind of … Read more
Last night we headed to Hot Wheels Monster Trucks Live at the Birmingham Utilita Arena—and wow, what a show! Every single one of us (grown-ups included) left buzzing from the energy, the noise, and the pure adrenaline-fuelled madness of it all. If you’re wondering whether it’s worth the hype, here’s everything you need to know … Read more
If you’re looking for somewhere that feels completely different to anywhere else, Puzzlewood is exactly that. Tucked away just outside Coleford in the Forest of Dean, this ancient woodland is one of the most enchanting places we’ve ever visited. It’s the kind of place where imagination takes over from the very first step. Stepping Into … Read more
If you’re looking for a family-friendly way to explore the Forest of Dean, the Colliers Trail is an absolute must. This scenic, waymarked cycle route winds through ancient woodland, over old railway bridges, past lakes, and even connects with the Forest’s famous Sculpture Trail. Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist or riding as a family for … Read more
One of the highlights of our recent family trip to the Forest of Dean was a completely spontaneous detour to Symonds Yat Rock. We were driving through the forest after a day of exploring when we saw the sign for this famous viewpoint. On a whim, we decided to follow the winding road up. The … Read more
If you’re planning a family trip to the Forest of Dean, the Wye Valley Butterfly Zoo is a must-visit. Tucked away in Symonds Yat West, this indoor tropical paradise is a peaceful, fascinating, and educational stop that children and adults alike will enjoy. Whether you’re a fan of wildlife, a budding entomologist, or simply looking … Read more
Tucked away on the edge of Gloucestershire, the Forest of Dean is one of those rare gems that manages to feel both wild and welcoming. With its ancient woodland, quirky attractions, and peaceful views, it’s the perfect destination for a family getaway, especially if you’re travelling with kids who love the outdoors. We recently spent … Read more
Spring is in the air, and with Easter just around the corner, it’s the perfect time to dust off your Cricut machine and get crafting! Whether you’re making gifts, decorating the house, or prepping party favours, these beginner-friendly Easter Cricut projects are super simple and made using templates and images from Cricut Access. Because they’re … Read more
If you’ve got a child who’s animal-obsessed like mine, you’ll know how quickly you work your way through all the local zoos, farms and wildlife parks. We’ve visited just about every animal attraction within driving distance more times than I can count. So when Arlo suddenly developed a fascination with Capybaras and Caimans, I started … Read more
Iron is an essential mineral that helps your body produce red blood cells and transport oxygen. If you have low iron levels, you may feel tired, weak, or dizzy. The good news is that you can increase your iron intake naturally through diet. Why Is Iron Important? Iron deficiency can lead to anaemia, which causes … Read more
As a teacher, I expect to feel exhausted by the end of a long term. It’s part of the job. But this time, something felt different. Since October, I’d had a lingering cold that refused to shift, followed by a nasty bout of norovirus. I brushed it off as winter bugs, but by January, I … Read more
The world premiere of The Wizard of Oz Drone Show UK took place at Edgbaston Cricket Ground, and it was nothing short of breathtaking. We were delighted to be invited to see a new Celestial show after being blown away with their Evolution tour last year. Blending cutting-edge technology with the timeless magic of a beloved classic, … Read more
If you’ve been renting for a number of years, you may find some aspects of home ownership surprising and often, expensive. Being prepared can help soften the blow so check out our guide to home ownership costs you may not have considered. Blocked drains No one is ever really prepared for that first time when … Read more
Play is a fundamental part of childhood, and the right toys can significantly enhance a child’s cognitive, physical, and social development. Encouraging children to engage in meaningful play not only boosts their creativity but also helps build essential life skills. From structured toys to free-play environments, choosing the right tools can make all the difference … Read more
This is a collaborative post with Cells4Life. Cord blood banking is an important decision for many expectant parents, offering a way to secure a potential lifeline for their child’s long-term health. Collected from the umbilical cord immediately after birth, cord blood is a rich source of hematopoietic stem cells—unique cells that have the ability to develop … Read more