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Activities

10 Things To Do With Kids During Lockdown This Weekend

Running out of kids’ lockdown activities? It’s pretty easy to have been through all the family board games, art supplies and Netflix shows when we’ve all been in the house for so long. With homeschooling in full swing, it’s important to come up with some kids’ lockdown activities that are active and creative to help them unleash some pent up energy. I’ve picked out some nature trails and challenges that have been keeping my family sane, as well as some cool online activities and subscriptions that are well worth getting involved with. What are you doing to keep the kids occupied? Please leave a comment below with any recommendations!

Jump to:

Stay home
Discover somewhere new
Get creative

Stay home

Hogwarts Is Here

Is there a Potter fan in your house? I’ll be surprised if there isn’t! Hogwarts is Here is a fantastic online platform for the kids to immerse themselves in the wizarding world. They can enrol for realistic Hogwarts courses, earn house points and play with magic in the common room. Sign up and get involved!

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Kitchen Disco With Sophie Ellis Bexter

Get everyone up and dancing around the kitchen with this hit playlist from Sophie Ellis-Bextor. Featuring hits from Donna Summer, Cher and Boney M, get lost in some classic pop hits.

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Disney Plus

With over 500 movies and 350 series, Disney+ is a brilliant way to while away the hours and watch all of the classics. It really has something for everyone with the Pixar favourites (Toy Story, Monsters Inc etc.), the Star Wars films, 30 Marvel movies, The Simpsons and loads more.

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London Symphony Orchestra – Online

Catch a performance from The London Symphony Orchestra. Discover what happens to an orchestra when everyone has to keep their distance. Learn how sound travels and what you can hear between the notes.

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Check out List.co.uk for more events like this.

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Scavenger Hunts

Scavenger hunts can take as little or as much planning as you have time for. I’ve put together a list of nine tried-and-tested scavenger hunts that will keep them occupied indoors and in the garden. An ideal lockdown activity!

9 Scavenger Hunts To Do At Home With The Kids

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Learn to play cards

No need to buy anything, just pull out your pack of playing cards and teach the family some new card games. Fun Attic has a good selection of games for 1-4 players. If you do need to buy a pack of cards, you can order them here.

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Discover somewhere new

Geocaching

Geocaching has been around a while but it’s really started to rise in popularity again since we’ve been in lockdown. Rediscover the world around you with this fantastic geocaching app and get involved in a worldwide treasure hunt. Be warned, it can get addictive!

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Forestry England

Is there a Gruffalo hiding in your local forest? There have been sightings of the mythical beast around the UK, so check out Forestry England website to find more. There is also a family-friendly Gruffalo-themed orienteering course that will hopefully be reopening soon (covid-permitting!).

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Treasure Trails

Sign up for a socially distanced adventure with Treasure Trails to get the cogs ticking out in the fresh air. Buy a Treasure Trail for your local area via the website and then have your young detectives solve clues, catch crooks and find the hidden treasure.

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Looking to update your wardrobe, buy a gift or treat yourself?

You will find a gorgeous range of jewellery, accessories and clothes on TLM Edit, all hand-picked by The London Mummy.

Get creative

DIY fake snow recipe

Missing the snow? With two ingredients you can create your own! If you have a toddler, DIY snow is great for sensory play, while older children can have fun making mini snowmen and creating a fake snow small world.

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Water pistol art painting

Definitely one for the garden, pick up a canvas and dig out the kids’ water pistols and let them blow off some steam firing watercolour paint to create a new piece of artwork.

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You might also like:

Take a peek at my ultimate directory for the best parent, style and business recommendations.

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Gift Guides

A Lockdown Christmas? 18 Things To Keep Your Family Entertained This Season

We all know Christmas isn’t going to be quite the same this year. It feels like we’re all trying to guess at what to expect but I think it’s easy to say we won’t be getting out and about as much as usual. That got me thinking about indoor activities to entertain the whole family, stuff to keep the kids occupied for hours, and crafty things to stimulate your mind. So, here’s what I’ll be buying for “new normal” festive season.

Jump to:

Whole family fun
To keep the kids quiet
For the adults

Whole Family Fun

Christmas Name Game Party Hats, Postbox Party

£11

Post-Christmas dinner, this party hat game is simple one for all ages to get involved with. Everyone dons a hat with name card and asks questions to the rest of the players in order to figure out who they are.

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The Sock Game, The Sock Game

£20

I’m very curious about this game. It’s a family team game where you spin the spinner and race to find items that are inside the sock. It’s a game that its founders have been playing every Christmas since the 80s and are now selling it in game shops across the UK.

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Family Conversation Prompt Cards, Three Boys Rock

£20

A lovely one to kick-start family conversations around the table, these prompt cards are a great way to get the kids talking and forming opinions on a variety of topics.

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Beat That!, Serendipity Presents

£22

Relieve some of that pent of energy taking part in a bonkers game of Beat That! Players must complete a series of wacky challenges involving random objects — think ping pong balls, chopsticks and cups. It’s definitely one that’ll have everyone laughing!

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To Keep The Kids Quiet

Christmas Special, Doodle Dents

£6

Hit a festive note with these lovely Santa, Rudolph and Snowman doodles from Doodle Dents. A good one to keep them busy while you’re cooking or for the post presents ‘what shall I do now…?’ question.

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World Map Pillowcase – Colour In & Learn, Eat Sleep Doodle

£15

Educational, creative and washable! Let them run wild colouring in countries, famous landmarks and exotic animals, then pop it in the wash ready for the next world tour.

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Personalised Christmas Eve Crafts Letterbox Gift Set, Little Lulubel

£16

I love to have something special in mind for Christmas Eve and these Little Lulubel letterbox gifts are a fab idea. It includes a Make Your Own Mask set, instant snow and sweets. Perfect to send to nieces and nephews you might not be able to see this Christmas.

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Create Your Own Snappy Shark Head, Clockwork Solider

£10

Time for some chill and concentration in building this Snappy Shark Head. It will look brilliant on their bedroom wall afterwards too!

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25 Purrfect Presents For Pet (& Pet Lovers) This Christmas

24 Home Gift Ideas To Buy Any Interiors-Obsessed Friend

SmartMats Set 1 A3, Smart Mat Kids

£12

SmartMats are ingenious for keeping the kids entertained wherever you go. The sheets are suitable for each age group (2-4, 5-7, and 8+).

Get 15% off Smart Mat Kids using the code ‘TLM‘ until 1 Jan 2021.

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Looking to update your wardrobe, buy a gift or treat yourself?

You will find a gorgeous range of jewellery, accessories and clothes on TLM Edit, all hand-picked by The London Mummy.

Harriet Versus The Galaxy Gift Set, Parrot Street Book Club

£20

Books are brilliant gifts but a book with an activity pack, pin badge and bookmark? Even better! The activity book is a great way for kids to dive deeper into the adventure story.

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Sesame Street Play Dough Kit, Made To Play Bins

£20

Learn and play with Sesame Street! These homemade, organic play dough sets from Made To Play Bins will keep the little ones occupied for hours.

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Handwritten letter from Father Christmas, The Christmas Letter Co.

£12

All kids love to sit down and write a letter to Santa and receiving a response is really the icing on the cake. The Christmas Letter Co. allows you to add personal details and is closed with a wax seal to make things all the more authentic.

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For The Adults

Mesmerise 1000 Piece Jigsaw Puzzle, Pieces of the Puzzle

£35

I’m sure the kids would be on-board with this one for all of five minutes, then it’ll be over to you to complete this beautiful ‘Mesmerise’ swirl jigsaw.

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Sproutword (2 – 4 player box), Sprout & Gerkhin

£22

Calling Scrabble fans! Here’s something new to get the cogs ticking. Sproutword involves making and changing words to create winning combinations.

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Luca Pom Hat Knitting Kit, Stitch & Story

£28 (was £35)

A Stitch & Story set is a lovely one to challenge yourself to make something new and something you’ll actually wear. I’m loving the hats but the scarves, blankets and sweaters are fantastic too.

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Curious Creatures: A Colouring Book Adventure, Millie Marotta

£6

Colouring books for adults were all the rage a few years ago but I still find a spot of colouring therapeutic. Millie Marotta’s illustrations are beautiful.

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Three Month Cocktail Kit Subscription, Taste Cocktails

£89

Who knows what the next few months will bring? If it’s expertise in cocktail-making, I will try not to complain too much!

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British Isles Counties and Sea Areas Puzzle, Heirloom Wooden Puzzles

£35

Test your knowledge on the UK (or rather learn about where the different counties are!) with this sweet wooden Heirloom puzzle.

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For more Christmas inspiration, here’s what to buy a man who is hard to buy for, how to treat your tween this festive season and things to keep everyone entertained for a potential lockdown Christmas.

Looking for something else? Take a peek at my ultimate directory for the best parent, style and business recommendations.

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Family Life Services Spotlight

Business Spotlight: Apparently Kids – Services & Support For New Parents

Apparently Kids is something I wish was around when I was a new parent. It’s a network of parenting professionals who can help you wherever you need support on your family journey. Of course, it’s easy enough to Google whatever service you’re looking for and get hundreds (even millions) of results but then you worry (1) can they be trusted?, (2) are they certified?, and (3) are they recommended by other parents? So, that’s where Apparently Kids steps in. I spoke to its founder, Lara Russell-Jones, to find out more.

What is your business and what makes it unique?

Apparently Kids is your new parent support system and we’re here to help you find the trusted, professional support you need from pregnancy through to the toddler years.

There are a huge and diverse range of services available from private midwives and breastfeeding support to pregnancy massage, mental health support and baby first aid. Now, parents can find them all in one place and book online support, or search by postcode for in-person professionals local to them.

We invest time to background check all our professionals to make sure they are:

Fully certified and accredited with relevant organisations
Experienced for advice you can trust
Recommended by other parents

How did it all begin?

I started Apparently after my own experience of becoming a mum. Like many new parents, my son and I had birth complications and, combined with a few weeks of sleep deprivation, it became a toxic mix physically, emotionally and mentally.

I looked for support but didn’t know where to turn and was overwhelmed by conflicting advice I read online. I was lucky to find some amazing women who helped me through stitches, tongue-ties, reflux and pelvic floor issues all through tears and lots of laughter.

On my maternity leave, I met so many new mums in the same position and realised that everyone had their own story. Many had not been so lucky and still hadn’t found help. It seemed deeply unfair to me that women, new parents and their babies were struggling just because they didn’t know help was out there or who to trust.

I knew that I wanted to help. New parents deserved a place where they could easily see and understand the full breadth of support available to them and find experienced and trusted professionals. I couldn’t find an online source that did this, so I decided to give it a go – Apparently was born!

What is the meaning behind the business name?

We’re starting as a website right now, however, we aim to be the go-to app for all parents….hence Apparently!

Who is your ideal client/customer?

All new parents or parents-to-be. I love meeting people who are recently pregnant and opening their eyes to this whole new world!

Which services do you strongly recommend?

Each family is unique in the services that they may need to best support them, however, I always recommend three things:

Baby First Aid Course. If you do one thing, this course could honestly save a very important little life.
Women’s Pelvic Health Physio. Incontinence and pelvic pain is not a normal part of giving birth. I can’t stress this enough and no woman should ever be dismissed if they suffer from it.
Lactation (breastfeeding) consultant. Breastfeeding can actually be quite challenging! Lactation consultants have done years of training and can support you in all of your feeding choices.

How do you manage a work/life balance?

Planning. I left a career in strategy consulting to start Apparently and now really value being able to control my own time. When you say you’re going to stop, stop.

What is your top parenting tip?

Stock up your freezer with as much food as possible before a new baby comes long. COOK parent bundles were the best present I ever received!

Interviewee’s favourites

Shop: The White Company. I always find the perfect gift in The White Company no matter who I’m shopping for.

Website: Etsy. We’re decorating our son’s room at the moment and getting all the most gorgeous and personal things from Etsy.

Holiday destination: In the UK, Salcombe in Devon. It’s the scene of all my favourite childhood memories and also where my husband proposed! Abroad, you can’t beat the coral reefs, wildlife and beaches of Indonesia.

Restaurant: Murano – a real treat and special occasion destination

Hotel: Whatley Manor in the Cotswolds. Gorgeous hotel, stunning countryside, lovely spa and one of the best breakfasts I’ve ever had!

Anything else you’d like to add?

‘It takes a village to raise a child – we are your village’ – Apparently Kids

Visit ApparentlyKids.co.uk

And don’t forget to follow Apparently on social media:

Instagram | Facebook | Twitter

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22 Christmas Decorations To Get Your House Ready For The Big Day

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23 Christmas Gifts The Kids Would Love To Get From Santa This Year

Looking for something else? Take a peek at my ultimate directory for the best parent, style and business recommendations.

Content in partnership with Apparently Kids

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Gift Guides

25 Christmas Gifts The Kids Would Love To Get From Santa This Year

It’s unlikely that most of us will make it out for a browse around Harrods or Hamleys in-person, so it’s time to scour the virtual toy shelves to find the top kids’ Christmas gifts to delight the children in your life. My list pulls together games, books, clothes, toys and a couple of things that’ll get them feeling curious, which, all together I reckon would make a pretty cool present haul for any kid on Christmas morning.

Buying for your own children always feels a bit more straight-forward; you can start picking things up and stashing them away anytime throughout the year. It’s nieces, nephews and friends’ children who I find a bit more challenging to buy for, especially if you don’t see them very often! In this respect, if you know they’re super into a specific character or topic, you can always play it safe with a themed gift (think dinosaurs and unicorns). Educational or creative gifts also often go down brilliantly — anything that sparks a child’s imagination feels like a win in my book.

Looking for something for your almost-teenager? I put together a specific gift guide for tweens. We all know that it’s that awkward age to buy for when you don’t want them to think their gift is too ‘babyish’. Speaking of babies… I turned my focus onto what to buy for a new mum and baby this festive season too. Hopefully, these gift lists get you thinking in the right direction with your Christmas shopping or help you pick something out right away!

Playing games

4 In A Row, Kids Concept

£17

Wooden toys are the way forward for the environment and, of course, they’re very durable. I don’t think you ever grow out of 4 In A Row, so maybe it’s time to introduce it to your kids too.

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Avocado Smash, Serendipity Presents

£11

A creative and refreshing twist on the classic game of Snap, I love the funky packaging and that the shape would baffle any kid trying to guess what you’ve wrapped up for them.

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Learning something new

Map of World, Wood Like To Play

£35

Another wooden favourite, this beautiful and imaginative jigsaw is hand-crafted and hand-painted with all different-sized pieces corresponding to countries around the world.

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365 Words Every Kid Should Know!, Amazon

£8

A word for every day of the year! This fantastic book provides a mix of strange words, ones that seem impossible to pronounce and other words they’ll need to use at home and school. It contains plenty of silly words too!

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For inspiring creativity

Oodles of Doodles, Doodle Dents

£12.50

You can never have enough doodle sheets. This Ooooodles of Doodles packet contains a doodle book, a travel pack and some ‘thank you’ cards — brilliant for sending to friends and relatives after Christmas gifts have been opened.

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32 Ways To Dress A Pig, Wee Gallery

£5

Dress Up A Pig is such a sweet stocking-filler. It’s a really small and simple gift that children can take anywhere and be able to get creative on-the-go, thinking up outfits for the little piggies.

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Make Your Own Dreamcatcher Kit, Cotton Twist

£14

Cotton Twist has some delightful craft kits, including a ‘make your own magical garden’ set and ‘make your own glider’ set. My favourite is this lovely dreamcatcher that your child will be able to display proudly in their bedroom afterwards.

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Mini Gingerbread Christmas Biscuit Kit, Craft & Crumb

£8

Nothing says ‘Merry Christmas’ more than homemade gingerbread. Craft & Crumb’s mini baking kits help to unleash a child’s culinary talents and make some yummy treats in the process.

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Small Dinosaur Crayons, BeeCrayative

£6

Crayons will always be appreciated but these from BeeCrayative aren’t just any old colours, they’re made from natural beeswax and come in all sorts of cute shapes and designs.

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Book corner

Little Unicorn Discovers The Dinosaurs, Ladey Adey

£10

Only released this year (so it’s unlikely they’ll already have it!), Little Unicorn will be a hit with kids who love dinosaurs, unicorns and anything imaginative.

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The Joyful Adventures, Tickled Moon

£20

This lovely personalised book will put two children at the heart of the action in an adventure that will take them high up in the sky. You can also add eight names of family members and friends to ensure nobody is left out.

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Getting personal

Blue Letter Towels, Jolly Fine

£35

Luxurious, soft and with a great personalised touch, your child will love to snuggle up in this Jolly Fine towel post-bath time.

‘Montgomery & Me’ Personalised Print, Wall Circus

£29

Personalised prints are are a thing that even as the decor changes, you’ll always keep the monogrammed artwork hanging in their room. I like the ‘British’ feel of this contemporary ‘Montgomery & Me’ print.

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Fairies Personalised Clocks, Animurals

£30

If a cute personalised clock isn’t enough to make them curious about telling the time, I don’t know what is! I love this clock for a nursery, playroom or bedroom.

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Dressing Up

The Rose Dress, Maggie Rose Clothing

£32

Maggie Rose has just the sweetest and most traditional clothing for girls. This dress is quite transitional too: wear it with sleeves underneath in winter and sleeveless in summer.

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Moss Green Corduroy Dungarees, Dotty Dungarees

£42

Every kid should own a pair of Dotty Dungarees! Available in sizes from 6 months to six years and in such a wide variety of colours, they’re perfect for getting out and about, playing indoors and everything else kids get up to.

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Looking to update your wardrobe, buy a gift or treat yourself?

You will find a gorgeous range of jewellery, accessories and clothes on TLM Edit, all hand-picked by The London Mummy.

Dachshund on Skateboard T-shirt, Five Boys Clothing

£15

Have the coolest kid on the block with this quirky dachshund on a skateboard print tee. It’s always nice to keep your kid’s wardrobes playful.

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Children’s Linen Shirt, Pinkhouse Mustique

£107

If you’re ever in need of something vibrant yet smart, I can’t recommend Pinkhouse Mustique enough. You can pick up the adult version of this mini-me print here too.

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Colour Changing Sequin Headband, Millie Pink

£14

Super colourful and super fun, add some sparkle to any little girl’s outfit with this colour-changing sequin headband.

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Imaginative play

Play’N Pack – Jungle, Olli Ella

£25

These travel bags bring together a bit of everything a kid needs to make an adventure. Packed with colouring roll, crayons, binoculars, alphabet cards and stickers, your kid can set up camp and start playing just about anywhere.

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Dream Big This Christmas, Leith & Gray

£38

Spark any little girl’s imagination with this super-sweet gift box from Leith & Gray. It contains one of the brilliant Little People, Big Dreams books, along with a princess hat, some hair clips, a felt mouse and a personalised note card.

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Birds Nest Cafe, Tender Leaf Toys

£95

The Birds Nest Cafe is open for business! With its beautiful, wooden coffee cups, cakes and snacks, your kid will love the independence of running their own cafe.

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Christmas Mouse in Box, Maileg

£23

An adorable little gift, this Christmas mouse in a suitcase is a sweet little toy they’ll want to take along on all their adventures throughout the festive season.

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For right now

Children’s Quilted Purse With Two Reusable Face Masks, Isimi

£16

If anything can make wearing a face mask more tolerable, it’s having one that feels soft and fits comfortably. This one comes with a hand sanitiser and carry purse too.

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Don’t forget the thank you notes…

Personalised Postcard Pack, Wall Circus

£12

I love these personalised postcards from Wall Circus – perfect for saying ‘thank you’ for all the fantastic Christmas presents they’ve received.

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For more Christmas content, click here.

Looking for something else? Take a peek at my ultimate directory for the best parent, style and business recommendations.

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Family Life Fashion Little

It’s Raining, It’s Pouring… 16 Kids’ Essentials To Keep Them Dry This Season

It looks like we’re in for a rainy few weeks! Summer quickly turned in autumn, didn’t it? Keep your kids dry this season with some of these rainy day essentials. If they’ve outgrown their wellies since the last downpour, now’s the time to click express delivery on some of these brilliant boots. I’ve picked out some reliable macs, umbrellas and waterproof trousers too, so the kids can splash about as much as they like without getting soaked through!

Jump to…

Raincoats
Umbrellas
Wellies
Other essentials
Something for you too…

Raincoats

I like Hatley raincoats because they’re well-lined, so they keep your kids cosy as well as dry.

Pretty Alpacas Raincoat, Hatley

£36

Yellow is the classic rain coat colour, so I had to include this one from Hatley too!

Yellow Splash Jacket, Hatley

£45

For something simple — waterproof and windproof — H&M can always be relied upon. This one comes with a practical detachable hood too.

Lined Hooded Rain Jacket, H&M

£18

Frugi always has the most fun and vibrant designs! Plus, their raincoats are made from recycled plastic bottles, ideal for us being more environment conscious.

Puddle Buster Coat, Frugi

From £39

Knights & Dragons is just one of the gorgeous rain coat designs from Powell Craft. I also love the unicorn and robot prints.

Knights & Dragons Raincoat, Powell Craft

£39

I wanted to include a coat with a thicker lining too and I think this White Stuff one is perfect for keeping them toasty and dry.

Rainy Day Mac, White Stuff

£33

You might also like: New Business Spotlight: Don’t Plan A Birthday Bash Without My Little Party

Umbrellas

3D umbrellas with wings, eyes, ears, (whatever they think of next!) are always lots of fun. Brollies Galore has a huge selection of characters to choose from.

Kids Umbrella, Sunnylife

£13

3D Monster Umbrella, Brollies Galore

£14

I must admit I wouldn’t mind this Hunter one for myself! It’s nice to know that simple, monochrome umbrellas for kids exist. This is a good one for occasions too.

Kids Moustache Bubble Umbrella, Hunter

£28

We all know it’s never going to look as neat as the one in the product shot but letting the kids decorate their own umbrellas is a nice way to add a personal touch to their rainy day outfits.

Paint Your Own Umbrella, KidMaker

£15

You might also like: 13 People Who Can Help With Your Small Business

Wellies

You can guarantee that Muck Boot Company boots will be super comfortable as well as practical.

Kids Half Pull-On Wellington Boots, Muck Boot Company

£55

These wellies look pretty easy to slip-on and ankle height might be more comfortable for your little one to walk in.

Kids Ankle Wellies, JoJo Maman

£17

I love that these are fleece-lined and elasticated at the top — perfect for keeping toes cosy.

Red Slip-On Waterproof Boots, StartRite

£29

These stylish wellies from Polarn O Pyret look super-durable.

Stripe Kids Wellies, Polarn O Pyret

£28

Other Essentials

A rain mac by itself doesn’t cut it on those autumn country walks. Pack some Puddle Buster trousers to keep them dry and your car seats mud-free when you whip them off post walk!

Puddle Buster Trousers, Frugi

From £28

Don’t give them chance to complain about cold (or wet!) fingers with these rain-proof mittens.

Fleece Lined Rain Mittens, H&M

£9

Something for you too…

Navy Poncho 3.0, thepeoples.co

Reversible leopard print jacket, TLM Edit

£60

Looking for something else? Take a peek at my ultimate directory for the best parent, baby and business recommendations.

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Spotlight

New Business Spotlight: Don’t Plan A Birthday Bash Without My Little Party

If there’s one good thing that’s come out of lockdown, it’s My Little Party. Envisaged and created by kids’ entertainer Emily Rose Adams, this new party platform is going to revolutionise your kid’s party planning. My Little Party is a huge directory of everything you’ll ever need to plan a party. From supplies and invitations to entertainers and any theme you could ever dream of, it’s all here! I know from experience if you want to host a party with a particular theme, it takes hours of research to get everything perfect. My Little Party has basically done all that for you. I love that you can go to the website, click the theme you want and it gives you a list of the best suppliers and entertainers out there. You get in touch with suppliers through My Little Party and you can leave reviews on there. If you’re based in London, there’s a list of the top party planners too!

I wanted to find out more about My Little Party, so got in touch with Emily for a quick chat.

How did it all begin?

I worked as a kids’ entertainer and music teacher for several years. After working for dozens of families each year, I realised that many of them had a difficult time arranging birthday parties for their children and often complained about having to spend hours looking for party providers. During lockdown, I decided to build a platform which would empower both customers and local businesses to find each other.

What inspired you?

Lockdown has been a really difficult time for small businesses and self-employed entertainers. Most of them lost all of their work overnight and were forced to cut back on expenses. I wanted to use the downtime to create a platform that would make it easier for party providers to connect with customers as soon as restrictions were lifted, and to help them save on advertising costs by being promoted on our website. Lockdown has also been hard on children, many of whom have celebrated birthdays without their friends. By selecting the best entertainers in the business, I wanted to give customers the option to have parties as soon as possible in a safe environment. Most of our providers offer socially-distanced parties, and many of them are now busier than ever!

Who is your ideal customer?

Parents and carers who want to bring some birthday magic to their kids!

What is your top parenting tip?

Relax and let our entertainers do all the work for you.

Emily’s favourites

Shop: Wholefoods

Website: Kinderlist – recently discovered this. It lets you shop for children’s gifts and create wishlists

Holiday destination: Italy

Restaurant: London has too many amazing ones to pick a favourite!

Hotel: I recently stayed in a converted cave hotel called Aquatio Cave in Matera in the south of Italy which had stunning views!

Find out more on MyLittleParty.uk

Looking for something else? Take a peek at my ultimate directory for the best parent and baby recommendations.

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Activities Days Out Places

6 Family Farm Days Under One Hour From London

Back in the day, you would go to a farm and expect to see a couple of domestic animals roaming around, a few farm animals in the field, have a play on a rickety old climbing frame, eat a Mr Whippy and then head home. Oh no. Not nowadays. We expect a farm to entertain our poor little deprived children and not only give them a taste of the countryside but entertain, thrill and stimulate them like a theme park! Fun farms!

Here a few that you can reach in about an hour from London – so go for the day and still be back in time for tea – that definitely won’t disappoint!

Bocketts Farm

Leatherhead, Surrey

Nestled just off the A3, it’s very easy to get to Bocketts. There is lots to do – inside and outside play areas, animal feeling and some lovely lunch options – as well as Bocketts being a working family farm. The farm is home to hundreds of animals, including lambs, piglets, chicks and calves. For us, The Pig Racing was a real highlight. It’s actually a full-on marathon and the children went nuts for it. I didn’t know pigs could run that fast… Very fun.

Address: Young St, Fetcham, Leatherhead KT22 9BS, United Kingdom

Find out more on BockettsFarm.co.uk

Photo credit: @olliedixonphoto, Facebook

Bucklebury Farm Park

Reading, Berkshire

This is a delightful farm and we particularly enjoyed the go karts and play bus. The guys had fun careering down the assault course in the woods too! Bucklebury is very charming and the shabby-chic style cafe was lovely and also very helpful – warming baby food and helping prevent our errant 2 year old from wandering into the kitchen without losing their cool!

Address: Bucklebury, Reading RG7 6RR, United Kingdom

Find out more on BuckleburyFarmPark.co.uk

Credit: buckleburyfarmpark, Facebook

Looking for a short family break? Here are 12 luxury staycations the whole family will love…

Godstone Farm

Godstone, Surrey

The soft play and vast adventure playground alone is worth the entry fee here. There is also a much appreciated section for the under 2’s. The dino trail and designated playground filled with ride on tractors and trucks was also a real hit. They are very generous with the time they allow for rabbit and chicken ‘cuddling’ although the chicks were out of bounds for the 1 year old. ‘They aren’t very good at releasing their grip at that age…’

Update July 2020: Animal holding and the playbarn are currently closed but hopefully we’ll see them opening very soon!

Address: Farm Limited, Tilburstow Hill Rd, Godstone RH9 8LX, United Kingdom

Find out more on GodstoneFarm.co.uk

Credit: Godstonefarm.co.uk

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Hobbledown

Epsom, Surrey

Hobbledown is the ‘Harry Potter’ of all farms. It is like entering a different land and each area is crafted beautifully. Teepees and tents line the paths and there is something interesting going on at every turn. I could have perused the shop for longer than I did too. There were loads of cool books, games and toys – will definitely stock up on Christmas presents next time we head back!

Address: Horton Ln, Epsom KT19 8PT, United Kingdom

Find out more on Hobbledown.com

Credit: Hobbledown.com

Odds Park Farm

High Wycombe, Buckinghamshire

Odds Park is a huge farm with plenty to do including tractor rides, animal feeding, a wonderful sandpit and plentiful play areas. Everyone’s highlight was the sheep racing though, where you backed a sheep and if it came in, you won a medal. That made a few happy (and unhappy) faces! The staff are very friendly and the map is clear with an extensive plan of what’s on at what time.

Address: Wooburn Common, Wooburn Green, High Wycombe HP10 0LX, United Kingdom

Find out more on OddsFarm.co.uk

Credit: OddsFarm.co.uk

Wellington Country Park

Riseley, Berkshire

We always race straight to the train as soon as we arrive. Hughie, the train driver, always welcomes us aboard with a huge smile. Each time we visit they have added to the collection of little statues, gnomes and animals along the route. Don’t forget to scream when you go through the tunnel! If you manage to get beyond the three different outdoor play areas (they are brilliant – especially the zip wire), there is a sweet little farm area and a beautiful lake to walk around. A top day out.

Address: Odiham Rd, Riseley, Reading RG7 1SP, United Kingdom

Find out more on Wellington-Country-Park.co.uk

Whichever one you choose, you will have a lovely day. They are all perfect destinations to meet friends, escape the grind and fill up one day of the holidays!

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Days Out

12 Family-Friendly Theme Parks To Visit This Summer

Theme parks are the best post-lockdown treat for kids of all ages. With parks reopening their doors this month and everyone wanting to blow off steam, the tickets are selling out quick! I love that so many of the big theme parks have super-cool rides and play areas that cater to younger kids too. I’ve picked out the best theme parks that offer a good selection of activities for the little ones, as well as brilliant family activities and attractions. Do let me know if I’ve missed one that you and your family absolutely love.

Jump to:

South
Midlands
West
North
East
Multiple Locations

SOUTH

Peppa Pig World, Paulton’s Park

All toddlers seem to be mad about Peppa Pig. So, a meet-and-greet, along with a chance to immerse themselves in the world of their favourite character, will be a dream day out. Paulton’s Park has plenty of family rides, water splash parks, as well as birds and animals. It’s really worth booking accommodation near the park and making it a short break out of it.

Location: New Forest, Hampshire

Find out more on PaultonsPark.co.uk

The Gruffalo, Chessington

Ever since the Gruffalo moved into Chessington, the park has been a delight for young children. While the Lazy River ride is the main attraction, Chessington also has short-break options with the chance to stay in a hotel room decked out in all things The Gruffalo. Spend a day in the theme park and a day in the zoo. New for this year, Chessington has unveiled The Rainforest – three new jungle-themed family-friendly rides.

Location: Chessington, Kingston upon Thames

Find out more on Chessington.com

Angry Birds, Thorpe Park

Thorpe Park has some of the absolute best rides for adults but there’s a good balance of family fun too. Angry Birds Land is best for kids four years and above with the Angry Birds 4D experience, dodgems and Detonator, the ride with a birds-eye-view. The park also has rapids, teacups and water rides.

Location: Chertsey, Surrey

Find out more on ThorpeBreaks.co.uk

Duplo Valley, Legoland

Legoland is one of the best places for young kids and even I love walking through miniland looking at the miniature landmarks made of Lego! Duplo Valley is just perfect for toddlers (or Little Builders, as Legoland call them!) with its Dino Coaster, Playtown and theatre. Under 3’s can enjoy Playtown and Splash Safari. Don’t forget to get their L-Drivers license in Lego city.

Location: Windsor

Find out more on Legoland.co.uk

MIDLANDS

CBeebies, Alton Towers

I’m not sure anyone ever grows out of Alton Towers. There was so much for the little ones to do before CBeebies Land and that has also been a fantastic addition to the park. Join Peter Rabbit, In The Night Garden, Teletubbies and the rest of the CBeebies gang your kids have fallen in love with. Don’t forget to book a day in the water park too!

Location: Alton, Stoke-on-Trent

Find out more on AltonTowers.com

Thomas Land, Drayton Manor

Full steam ahead to Drayton Manor! Thomas Land goes all out for kids: it has 25 rides and attractions! All of the Thomas and Friends characters come to life here through brilliant rides, including Toby’s Tram Express, Cranky’s Drop and Harold’s Helicopter Tour. I recommend a day in the zoo and a day in the theme park as neither can be rushed. To read more about my trip there, click here.

Location: Drayton Bassett, Staffordshire

Find out more on DraytonManor.co.uk

WEST

Neverland, Oakwood Theme Park

Rollercoasters, rides and attractions for all ages are what you’ll find at Wales’ biggest theme park. Kids will love Neverland for an adventure with Peter Pan, Tinkerbell and the Lost Boys. My favourite place is Dahland where all the best Roald Dahl characters come to life.

Location: Pembrokeshire, Wales

Find out more on OakwoodThemePark.co.uk

NORTH

Nickelodeon Land, Blackpool Pleasure Beach

Join Spongebob, The Backyardigans, PAW Patrol and other characters from Team Nick at Blackpool Pleasure Beach – a classic theme park day out if you’re based in the North of the UK. I also love a visit to Ripley’s Believe It or Not which will have plenty of surprises for everyone.

Location: Blackpool, Lancashire

Find out more on BlackpoolPleasureBeach.com

Angry Birds Activity Park, Lightwater Valley

Suited for children from one year old, Lightwater Valley is an amazing place for a family adventure. It’s also the home to the Angry Birds Activity Park. Your young adrenaline junkie will be thrilled to ride the Twister, the Eagles Claw and the Falls of Terror. With 40 rides to choose from, they’ll be something for everyone to enjoy.

Location: Ripon, North Yorkshire

Find out more on LightwaterValley.co.uk

EAST

Heart Kid’s Zone, Pleasurewood Hills

Pleasurewood has a good mix of entertainment and attractions, including sea lion and parrot shows. As for rides, enjoy the classics, including dodgems, carousel, wave swinger and a couple of roller coasters. The kids can go for the spin in the teacups and sail the seas on the mini pirate ship in Heart Kid’s Zone.

Location: Lowestoft, East Anglia

Find out more on PleasurewoodHills.com

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Multiple locations

Gulliver’s World

This is one of the oldest theme parks I can think of (it’s over 40 years old!) and now they have four parks and another one opening soon. Don’t expect any big rides though, as these parks are specially designed for those under 12. I’m only familiar with the Matlock Bath Park which is built into a hillside in the beautiful Peak District – take the chair lift ride for the best views. The park has something for everyone, whether your little one loves princesses, dinosaurs, pirates or diggers!

Location: Warrington, Milton Keynes x 2, Matlock Bath, Rother Valley (opens 2020)

Find out more on GulliversFun.co.uk

Diggerland

Diggerland is much bigger now than I remember it and it’s truly a digger-themed experience for the whole family. For the kids, there’s the digger train, knocking down skittles and hunting for treasure on a digger, go-karts, mini tractors and land-rovers. For adults, get behind the gears of an actual digger.

Location: Kent, Devon, Durham and Yorkshire

Find out more on Diggerland.com

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