Re – Useable (not paper) chains

Paper chains are the perfect decoration for any occasion but they never last long, especially outdoors. So here’s a new way to make them. You will need: A4 Felt sheets Velcro dots Scissors Marker Ruler This really is as simple as it sounds. Lay the felt landscape and use the ruler to draw lines about … Read more

Recycling old candles

Would you believe it if I told you this candle was made from scraps? Probably not but it is…. I love having pillar candles on my fire place and as the wax drips I’ve always just plonked another candle on top as I love the effect. This week has begun the slow transition from autumn … Read more

Toilet Roll Airplane Craft

Our little spitfires were made during our busy VE Day celebrations, using toilet rolls and a bit of scrap cardboard. You will need: One loo roll Cardboard Paper fastener Masking tape Scissors or scalpel Paint First things first you need to cut your wing, propellor and fail shapes out of some scrap card. I used … Read more

Paper craft stars

This is a really simple Christmas star paper craft which creates such a beautiful effect. A great way to use sheets of scrap book paper too…. one of many easy Christmas crafts to try along with us. For this activity you will need: A five pointed star template Sheets of 12×12 craft paper A ruler … Read more

Paper craft birds

These lovely little birds were made out of spare scrap book paper – we usually make these as a Christmas craft but as we have a lot of time to spare then we thought we’d try these one rainy day. You will need: Cardboard Scrap booking paper (double sided pattern) Craft paper Scissors Bird template … Read more

DIY Bird feeder craft

This was a really simple Sunday afternoon activity, as part of our bird themed activities it only seemed right to make something to hang in our garden for the little robin who visits every day. You will need: Cardboard Peanut butter Bird seed Hole punch Twine I chose to use our wooden shapes as stencils … Read more

How to Plan a Stress-Free Holiday as a Single Parent

A large airplane flying in the sky.

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.

An Audience with Father Christmas at Kenilworth Castle

A woman stands smiling next to Santa Claus seated on a large wooden chair. They are in a decorated room with a Christmas tree and baskets of wrapped gifts.

The festive season is the perfect time to enjoy family-friendly activities, and Kenilworth Castle at christmas offers a magical way to step back in time while creating modern-day memories. Nestled in the heart of the United Kingdom, this historic site transforms into a winter wonderland during the holidays, offering festive fun for children of all … Read more

A Christmas Carol by Mark Gatiss at The Rep Birmingham 

A theatrical scene depicting a festive gathering, with people in period costumes around a table, set in front of a large decorated Christmas tree.

The festive season is upon us, and what better way to embrace it than with a visit to the Birmingham Repertory Theatre? This year, The Rep presents A Christmas Carol: A Ghost Story, a thrilling adaptation of Charles Dickens’ tale of old tightwad Ebenezer Scrooge, reimagined by the brilliant Mark Gatiss. Directed by Adam Penford, whose … Read more

Top 4 Alpine resorts for family ski trips

A skier in green descends a snowy slope with mountain peaks in the background on a clear day.

Taking the children on their first ski trip can be a daunting prospect, but with prior preparation and the right resort, it promises to be fun for all the family. Discover four of the best Alpine resorts for family ski trips, each blessed with varied runs in glorious surroundings and plenty of thrilling activities and amenities to suit … Read more

50 of the best Splash Pads and water parks in the Midlands

Colorful illustration with a sun, rainbow, and whale, featuring text: "The Best Splash Pads Near Brum.

The West Midlands is a fantastic region for families looking to enjoy some splash-tastic fun. Whenever there is a heatwave expected there’s always a rush to find the perfect place for the kids to cool off. From thrilling water parks to delightful open air splash pads, and more high octane adventure parks, there’s something for everyone … Read more

The Blended Family Blueprint – Legal Insights for a Smooth Transition

Forming a blended family is a beautiful journey that combines distinct histories into a single shared future. It’s a path filled with opportunities for growth, love, and deep connections. However, it also brings unique challenges, particularly when it comes to legal and emotional adjustments.  Addressing these early on can help ensure everyone feels secure and … Read more

Teaching Your Child About the Importance of Kindness  

A note with the message "#bekind" placed on a bed of green leaves.

Kindness is a quality that holds immense significance in our lives. It not only enhances relationships but also contributes to a harmonious society. As parents, one of our greatest responsibilities is to instil this virtue in our children. Teaching them about kindness sets a strong foundation for their moral development and shapes them into compassionate individuals who … Read more

How To Support a Neurodivergent Child

A child gently holding a small duckling.

Neurodiversity is a term that encompasses the natural variation in how our brains work. It acknowledges that individuals may think, learn, and process information differently. Some children may be neurotypical, meaning their neurological development is typical for their age. Others may be neurodivergent, which includes conditions such as autism spectrum disorder (ASD), attention deficit hyperactivity … Read more