Showing posts with label Family. Show all posts

Simple Steps for Talking to Children About Family Changes

Family changes can be some of the most challenging transitions for children to understand and process. Children often feel sad, confused, angry or worried about what will happen to them. Many children struggle with difficult emotions they may not have the vocabulary to express, especially younger ones who often show distress through behaviour rather than words.

The way parents communicate about these changes plays a key role in a child's adjustment and in keeping healthy relationships with both parents.

Discussing family transitions with children requires careful planning, age-appropriate language, and emotional sensitivity. Many parents find themselves uncertain about what to say, when to say it, and how much detail to share. This uncertainty is perfectly normal, as most adults want to protect their children from unnecessary distress while still being honest about what lies ahead.

Creating a supportive environment where children feel safe to ask questions and express their feelings is essential during these conversations. With the right preparation and approach, parents can help children move through family changes with strength and understanding, even during the most difficult circumstances.

Why Children Need Age-Appropriate Explanations About Family Changes

parents and child

Children often blame themselves when parents separate. Young children especially may worry that they caused the separation or divorce. Without proper explanation, they create their own stories about why the family is changing.

Each year, many children in England and Wales experience family changes through divorce and separation. These transitions can feel overwhelming, particularly when children don't understand they aren't responsible.

Clear explanations help prevent self-blame. When adults explain family changes, children learn the cause doesn't come from anything they did. This guidance shows children they aren't alone, as many families experience similar situations.

When seeking support during family transitions, consulting with divorce lawyers in Huddersfield can help parents understand legal aspects while focusing on children's wellbeing. Professional guidance often reduces parental stress, which benefits children indirectly.

Children do best with security and routine. Young children focus on practical details like where their toys will be or who will pick them up from school. Unexplained changes create anxiety, but children show remarkable healing abilities when given appropriate support.

Parents should separate adult conflict from facts children need. Shielding them from everything may increase confusion about changes directly affecting their lives.

How Conversation Shapes Adjustment

Clear communication affects a child's emotional response during family changes. Age-appropriate approaches ensure children receive the understanding they need to process changes effectively. When parents explain situations in understandable language, it reduces uncertainty because children know what to expect.

For example, when a parent calmly says, "Mum and Dad will live in different houses, but both of us love you," the child learns the change isn’t their fault. Discussing feelings together shows children that emotions are safe to talk about. Children then see that honest discussion doesn't worsen problems, helping them build resilience.

Addressing Common Mistakes and Corrective Strategies

Avoiding open conversation can cause children to withdraw or develop self-blame. Regular, truthful talks form a protective foundation for wellbeing. Ignoring questions, using vague statements, or blaming the other parent might create loyalty conflicts.

Helpful strategies include offering regular opportunities for questions and clarifying misunderstandings promptly. Always reinforce that children are loved and not responsible for changes. This honest approach helps reduce confusion and lowers the risk of emotional issues.

Creating a Safe Environment for Difficult Conversations

The setting for important talks has a major impact. The best outcomes occur when discussions take place at calm moments without distractions. Initial messages should be brief, and children need to know they can ask questions openly.

A neutral, familiar setting allows children to feel secure and relaxed. This encourages open communication and makes sharing emotions easier.

When parents plan key messages together, they provide a consistent story children can rely on. This minimises confusion and prevents mixed signals. Even when parents struggle to communicate, showing unity when talking with children signals commitment to the child's wellbeing.

Children notice when messages don't match. It's best for both parents to tell children together, being honest while considering children's ages. Joint messages focus attention on the child, not on disagreements.

Simple, non-blaming language prevents children from feeling responsible. Age-appropriate phrases like "Mum and Dad have grown apart" avoid naming specific faults or exposing children to adult conflicts.

Managing emotions during these conversations is challenging but important. It's okay for children to see parents feel sad, but staying calm and reassuring helps. Parents feeling overwhelmed should take breaks and continue when more composed.

Answering Common Questions Children Ask About Separation

Children frequently ask if they caused the separation. This needs immediate reassurance: "This is about grown-up problems between Mum and Dad. Nothing you did caused this." Parents should repeat this message whenever needed.

Many children hope their parents will reconcile. When they ask about getting back together, honesty works best. A response like: "We don't plan to live together again, but we'll always be your parents" acknowledges wishes while remaining truthful.

Practical concerns about living arrangements often worry children. They ask: "Where will I live? Will I change schools?" Parents should provide clear information as soon as decisions are made. For unsettled details, explain what is known and when other decisions will happen.

Children need reassurance about continued care. When asking who will take care of them, stress that both parents remain committed to their wellbeing. Explain specific arrangements simply, using calendars if helpful.

Many children worry about loyalty conflicts. Reassure them that loving both parents is expected: "Of course, you can love both of us. We both love you and want you to have good relationships with each of us."

Supporting Children Through Ongoing Changes

woman and child

Consistency provides security during family transitions. Parents should maintain routines, keep regular rules, and offer extra affection. Regular mealtimes and bedtimes help children feel that some things remain stable even when others change.

For younger children, visual calendars showing when they'll be with each parent can lower anxiety. Simple symbols or colours can represent each home. Regular calendar reviews help children understand what happens next.

Children handle emotions in different ways. Some share feelings through art or play. Others talk directly about experiences. Options for drawing, journaling, or regular check-in talks help children work through emotions. They can choose methods that feel comfortable and proceed at their own pace.

Parents should watch for signs that children need additional support. Changes in sleeping patterns, appetite, school performance, or behaviour may indicate difficulty adjusting. Withdrawal from friends or regression to younger behaviours are also warning signs that professional help might be beneficial.

Spotting Signs a Child Needs Extra Help

Watch for signs that children might need extra support. Changes in sleeping, appetite, school performance, or behaviour may indicate difficulty adjusting. Withdrawal from friends or regression to younger behaviours are also warning signs.

Local resources offer support. School counsellors, family therapists, and support groups for children experiencing family transitions can help. Organisations like Childline provide information for children and families experiencing separation.

Children do better when excluded from parental disagreements. Direct involvement in adult disputes causes emotional conflict and stress. Clear boundaries between adult issues and children's lives reduce loyalty conflicts and support healthier adaptation.

Professional help can make a positive difference when family difficulties persist. Children who receive counselling during family splits may experience improvements in school attendance and fewer stress-related complaints. Parents can contact divorce lawyers or seek family therapists through their GP.

Even brief professional guidance can help parents develop good communication strategies and notice early warning signs. Acting early addresses problems before they become harder for children to handle.

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Understanding Parental Rights in the UK: A Complete Guide

Whether you’re married, co-parenting or raising a child on your own, it’s helpful to understand what the law says about your rights and responsibilities. In the UK, legal parental rights affect everyday decisions - such as where your child lives, how they’re educated and who gets a say in their upbringing.

This guide outlines how parental responsibility works, how it’s granted, and what you can do if your rights are unclear or being challenged. It’s designed to give you a clear overview of the law in England and Wales, so you can make informed decisions based on your circumstances.

What Is Parental Responsibility?

parents and child


In England and Wales, parental responsibility refers to the legal rights and duties a parent has concerning their child’s upbringing. This includes decisions about education, healthcare, religion and living arrangements. Birth mothers automatically acquire parental responsibility at birth. Fathers gain it if they were married to the mother at the time of the child’s birth or are listed on the birth certificate (for births registered after 1 December 2003 in England and Wales).

For unmarried fathers who aren’t listed on the birth certificate, parental responsibility is not automatic. However, it can be acquired by entering into a Parental Responsibility Agreement with the mother or through a court application. Without this legal recognition, a father may not have a formal say in important decisions about the child’s life, even if he plays an active role in their care. For families with more complex arrangements, such as co-parenting or blended households, it’s often worth clarifying who holds legal parental responsibility to avoid confusion or disputes later on.

Who Else Can Hold Parental Responsibility?

Although parental responsibility most often lies with a child’s birth parents, other individuals can hold it too, either by agreement or through a legal process. This can include step-parents, civil partners or other adults who take on a parental role in the child’s life. For example, a step-parent who lives with the child and helps with their daily care may apply for parental responsibility if both biological parents agree. If one parent does not consent, the step-parent can apply to the court for a Parental Responsibility Order.

This also applies to guardians, adoptive parents and intended parents in surrogacy arrangements, all of whom may be granted parental responsibility if they take on formal responsibility for the child. In some cases, foster carers or local authorities may temporarily hold certain legal rights too, depending on the nature of the arrangement.

The law in England and Wales allows more than two people to share parental responsibility at the same time. Where multiple adults are involved in a child’s upbringing, formalising who holds parental responsibility is necessary. Without clear legal recognition, decision-making can be delayed or challenged, particularly in matters involving schools, healthcare or travel.

Navigating Separation and Co-Parenting

When parents separate or divorce, practical arrangements for the child’s care often need to be reviewed. The law prioritises the child’s welfare above all else, and courts usually support shared parenting where it is safe and workable. If parents are unable to agree on where the child should live or how often they see each parent, a Child Arrangements Order can be used to set out those details in a legally binding way.

For fathers, especially those unmarried, establishing parental responsibility is important. Consulting experienced paternity lawyers can provide clarity on your rights and responsibilities, protect your right to make decisions, and enable active participation in your child’s life.

The Role of Step-Parents and Partners

Living with a child does not automatically confer parental responsibility to step-parents or partners. To be involved in significant decisions, they must obtain parental responsibility through an agreement or court order. This legal recognition is vital in blended families to make sure all caregivers can contribute to the child's upbringing - otherwise, one parent may be left without a legal say on whether the child lives or goes to school, which can be challenging following a separation.

When Can Parental Rights Be Restricted?

In situations where a parent poses a risk to the child's welfare, courts can impose restrictions, such as supervised contact or, in extreme cases, removal of parental responsibility. Local authorities may intervene if safeguarding concerns arise, potentially leading to care or supervision orders. If you find yourself in these circumstances, it’s advisable to seek legal representation to help you navigate these complex waters.

Same-Sex Couples and Parental Responsibility

Same-sex couples can both hold parental responsibility, depending on the circumstances of the child's birth or adoption. For instance, if one partner gives birth and they are married or in a civil partnership at the time of conception, both may automatically acquire parental responsibility. In cases involving surrogacy, a Parental Order post-birth can grant legal recognition to both intended parents.

Access to Information

Holding parental responsibility entitles individuals to access information about the child, including educational and medical records. However, this does not always extend to decision-making, especially if specific court orders are in place. If access to information is unjustly withheld, legal remedies are available to address the issue.

Whether you’re adjusting to life with a new baby, working through the challenges of co-parenting or building a blended family, knowing where you stand can offer reassurance and help you focus on what matters most - your child’s day-to-day wellbeing and building strong family bonds.

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The Heart of Home: Building Strong Family Bonds

Our hearts are rooted in family, where we grow, laugh, and heal together. It’s not always perfect, but strong family connections are often the foundation of emotional support and lifelong contentment. Whether raising young children, navigating the teenage years, or cherishing grown-up conversations with your parents, strengthening those ties can make the most challenging days feel a little easier and the best days even brighter.


Family

This guide will share heartfelt ways to nurture those connections through meaningful communication, shared traditions, and unwavering support so your family can continue growing stronger together through every season of life.

Open Communication: The Foundation of Trust

Talking openly isn’t always easy, but it’s essential. Trust starts with communication and is not just about the big stuff. The everyday chats, the "How was school?" and the "What are you watching these days?" lay the groundwork for deeper conversations later.

Creating a home where everyone feels safe to speak their truth means listening without rushing to solve or judge. Instead of offering quick fixes, try responding with curiosity. After your teenager vents, ask what they need from you and consider sharing your own stories of feeling misunderstood or making mistakes to show that vulnerability is okay. Including the experiences of grandparents or older relatives in conversations can also beautifully bridge the generational gap and create meaningful connections.

Quality Time and Shared Traditions

Time is the most generous thing you can give someone. In families, it’s the glue that holds everyone together. Whether it's a Sunday roast, a Friday night movie ritual, or a walk around the block after dinner, shared moments create a rhythm that connects everyone’s hearts.

Traditions go beyond nostalgia; they create a sense of identity and belonging. From bedtime routines to holiday rituals, they reflect what makes a family unique. Family gatherings and shared interests are powerful ways to build stronger bonds across generations and keep that story alive. Showing appreciation and sharing family recipes can be profoundly grounding for children and healing for adults.

Even if your family hasn’t had strong traditions in the past, it’s never too late to start. Make pancakes on Saturdays, write a silly song together, or create a birthday scavenger hunt. It’s not the activity that matters most, it’s the time spent together.

Respect and Support: Nurturing Individual Growth

Loving your family doesn’t mean you have to agree all the time. Families flourish when everyone is allowed and encouraged to be different. Respecting each other’s interests, dreams, and boundaries creates space for personal growth. Maybe your child wants to be a dancer while your partner is passionate about gardening. Celebrate those differences. Let them know their individuality is part of what makes the family stronger.

Support can be as simple as helping your child find a quiet space to write or taking an interest in a partner’s new hobby. You can also show them how to start journaling to help them process emotions, develop their identity, and feel understood when spoken words don’t come quickly.

Encourage each family member to chase their goals, knowing they’ve got a supportive home team cheering them on every step of the way.

Emotional Resilience Through Tough Times

Every family faces hardships, whether illness, loss, or stress. What truly matters is how the family navigates those challenges together.

Resilience starts with empathy. When someone’s struggling, offer your presence instead of solutions. Sit with them, ask how they’re feeling, and resist the urge to rush past the pain. Sometimes, just being there is the most loving thing you can do.

Maintaining a sense of normalcy, like keeping up with routines or continuing shared meals, can also bring comfort. It tells everyone, “We’re still us, even when things are hard.”

Children especially need reassurance in times of uncertainty. Supporting your child with their emotions can help them cope with challenging situations. The stability that children gain helps promote healthy routines, such as getting enough sleep and having a positive social circle.

Keep the Heartbeat Strong

Family life doesn’t require grand gestures or perfect parenting. It thrives on everyday choices to connect, listen, and show up. From open conversations and shared traditions to supporting one another’s dreams and weathering storms as a team, those daily efforts keep the heart of your home beating strong.

Start small. Pick one habit to focus on this week. Maybe it’s eating one more meal together, asking your child a thoughtful question, or texting a parent just to say “I love you.” These seemingly tiny moments add up, forming the foundation of something unshakeable.

Because at the end of the day, home is a feeling. And when your family feels seen, heard, and loved, that feeling lasts a lifetime.

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How To Travel With A Baby For A Hassle-Free Journey!

5 Tips to Make Traveling with Your Baby as Easy as Possible

Many new parents wonder whether or not to travel with a young baby and, if so, how to make the experience as pleasant as possible for everyone involved! Before we get into the tips you need, let’s cover the basics first.

So - while it’s technically possible to travel with a newborn (including via airplane), pediatrics specialists generally don’t recommend travelling with a baby younger than one week old and, instead, advise it’s best to limit travel until your little one is several months old. This is to avoid exposing your baby to large numbers of people and, therefore, a variety of viral illnesses or infections - this is the key concern.

It’s important to remember that there’s also a risk when traveling with a baby who is too young to have had their vaccines, as they won’t have protection against certain potentially serious illnesses.

baby looking out onto a lake

Check with your pediatrics doctor before travelling internationally for peace of mind.

However, if your baby is at least a few months old or if you really need to travel, then there are some tips to know that will make all the difference. Because - let’s face it - you’ve already got a lot on your plate without even thinking about a trip away from home. But you’ve got this - and we’ve got you.

The 5 Tips For Happy Traveling with a Baby

Prepare for Take-Off

Preparation is the key to happy travels! If you’re planning on flying, then remember that you’ll need to get the ok from both your pediatrics doctor and the carrier. Every carrier has its own policy; for example, some airlines require a baby under one week old to have a medical form signed by a physician in order to fly.

To make your trip as smooth as possible, make a list of all the things you’ll need to take ahead of time. As well as clothes, diapers, and bottles, don’t forget a car seat to use on the plane and a few familiar toys for your little one to help them feel more settled. It’s also important to be prepared for every eventuality: think about what would happen if your baby got sick en route or a flight was cancelled or delayed. A backup plan is a must!

Efficient packing is essential, especially when travelling with a baby. It's important to consider both the quantity of items needed and your own comfort while navigating through airports with a baby in tow. Selecting the right size of suitcase is key, a small suitcase might not hold everything for both of you, while a large one could be hard to handle. A medium-sized hard side suitcase with four wheels is a practical choice, offering a good balance between capacity and maneuverability. Additionally, using packing organizers or compression bags inside your suitcase can be a game-changer. These tools help to optimize space and keep your belongings well-arranged, which is especially helpful when packing for more than one person. This method not only makes packing more efficient but also eases the process of unpacking and organizing your items throughout your journey.

If you can, get seats on a non-stop, off-peak flight - and remember to bring along your baby’s birth certificate as proof of her age if you need it. If you can, bag a window seat: if your baby will be on your lap this means that any flailing little arms and legs won’t risk getting in the way of flight attendants or other passengers going up and down the aisles.

Comfortable Car Travel

It’s super important to factor in sleep deprivation if you’re planning on undertaking a car journey with a very young baby: a well-rested driver is a safer driver. Your baby will need to travel in a safe, rear-facing car seat; why not stick some pictures to the back of the seat, so your little one has something interesting to look at on the way?

baby looking out on view

Car travel with a baby is challenging, but our tips can help ease the stress!

Keep the sun off your baby’s face using a car window shade or a wide-brimmed hat, and allow for plenty of rest stops for feeding, diaper changing, and simply allowing your bundle of joy to stretch out their legs.

Some babies love music, and this can be a great way to keep them entertained in the car - although you may find you need to play the same song two dozen times if your little one is enjoying it! You could also create a playlist of lullabies to put on for when your baby shows signs of becoming sleepy.

Staying in a Hotel

If you’ll be staying in a hotel as part of your travels, then, again, preparation is the key to success! So, pack a nightlight and also electrical outlet covers along with all the basics you’ll need - and extras - for an overnight stay.

It’s a great idea to ring the hotel ahead of time to see if they have a temporary refrigerator they could put in your room, as many establishments are happy to do so for a small additional charge. If you won’t be taking your own portable crib, then ensure that the crib provided by the hotel meets all safety standards.

Here are a couple of extra handy little hints that’ll help keep your stress levels as low as possible. Firstly, ask for a room on the lower level of the hotel to make getting in the luggage easier and, secondly, find out where the nearest shop is for picking up diapers and other essential supplies, and check out the restaurant menu to see if it has baby-friendly food available.

Get Set for International Travel

If you’ll be travelling even further afield then there are even more things to consider - but it can be done! As well as all the extra packing, it’s vital to ensure that your baby’s vaccinations are up to date and also to check with your pediatrics doctor whether any additional vaccinations are needed for the country you’ll be visiting.

As well as sorting out a passport for your baby, it’s also a great idea to look at family travel insurance plans that offer free cover for children. Plus, if you’re a single parent, it’s highly recommended that you carry a notarized letter from the child’s other parent confirming that they give permission for the baby to travel overseas.


baby smiling on rug

Plan ahead for happy, hassle-free family travel!

We all know that there’s a direct correlation between how well a baby is sleeping and his parents’ happiness, and crossing time zones could put this equilibrium at risk…but there’s a solution! If your baby’s old enough to be on a sleep schedule, start making slight adjustments a few days before the trip to make things easier once you arrive. When you get to your destination, try to keep your little one in brightly lit areas during the daytime to further help them align with the new time zone.

Think About Your Expectations

And this final tip could save you a lot of stress. If it’ll be your first vacation or trip away with your baby, managing expectations is vital. You may feel under some pressure to make the holiday as exciting and fabulous as the breaks you enjoyed as a child-free couple. And the vacation can be just as wonderful - but in a different way.

So, plan to have a slower-paced holiday to avoid having an over-tired, grouchy baby on your hands and a stressful time. If there are several spots you’d like to visit, schedule seeing just one place or attraction per day, and factor in plenty of time to have relaxed fun with your little one, too. And if you can plan travel around nap times, even better! Ultimately, having an adaptable, ‘let’s roll with it’ attitude will pay dividends. Because, let’s face it: there’s going to be a diaper explosion, a spit-up incident, or a prolonged crying fit while everyone on the plane is trying to sleep - accepting this ahead of time is not only liberating but means you’ll be more likely to deal with such situations stoically when they occur.

Plan Ahead for a Relaxed Family Trip

Travelling with a baby may be challenging, but with some forward planning, it may be easier than you think. Take care of the basics by checking with your pediatrics team before undertaking a long journey, air travel, or a trip abroad, and make sure that all your little one’s vaccines are up to date.

Plan your trip - as far as possible - in a way that takes into account your baby’s schedule and personality. For example, if your baby tends to be unsettled in the late afternoon, then avoid beginning a long car journey at this time. If your baby likes a long sleep mid-morning, then this is the perfect time to hit the road!

It can be tempting to overpack, which can cause a hassle in itself when you have to lug everything into your hotel at the end of your journey. While it’s important to pack the things you need, it’s a good idea to only pack enough diapers for a few days, for example, and plan on picking up additional supplies once you’ve reached your destination.

One of the most important things to do is take the pressure off yourself. Your baby may become grouchy, there could well be a few hiccups along the way, and you may find yourself needing to feed your baby when you weren’t expecting to break your journey for another hour. If any (or all) of these things happen, trust your intuition, and know that you’re more than capable of handling these challenges.

Happy travelling! And if you’ve enjoyed this article, check out more at themonkeymashup.com - we’d love to have you visit!

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6 Important Ways To Look After Your Family

Looking after your family is important. Here are some ways in which we can improve our families' lives and take care of them. This is an advertorial.

family

Spend quality time with them

Spending time with your family is important. It's not always easy if you work different hours than your partner or have to pay for childcare but if you can make the time it's well worth it. Connect to them by talking about what they have done in the day. Have regular family meals together if possible. Do things together with the kids like go to the cinema, bowling or go for meals out.  Make an effort to see your parents when possible or ring them regularly if they don't live nearby.

Try and communicate openly and honestly

Set some family rules and communicate openly and honestly. Explain boundaries and why they are in place, this is important for all ages from toddlers to teens. Be a good listener and show empathy and make time to listen to your family's concerns. Spend time with your children on a one-to-one as concerns can be easier to air in this setting. 

Save regularly

When your children are young it's worth putting aside money regularly for them. They could use it when they are adults, to help with college or university, to buy a car, move into their first home or even for their wedding. None of these things are cheap and you will be helping them on their first steps into adult life. Check out the basics of setting up a saving plan here.

Protect your family

If something happens to you or your partner then life insurance or funeral cover can give you peace of mind. Protect your family and they won't have to worry about the cost of these things in the future, taking some of the stress out of the situation. You will be surprised how little money you have to put away every month for peace of mind. 

Think of their health

Consider private healthcare if you can afford it. In worrying times it can help if you have some money aside for private healthcare. You can pay monthly into a health care plan for you and your family or you can pay as you go to get seen sooner privately and avoid the NHS queues. Sometimes you may have to if the waiting lists are long. If you have a worrying healthcare situation and if you have the money then it can be worth doing.

Look after yourself

The last thing I want to say is to look after yourself. This is so important as you no doubt look after everyone else! Take time to treat yourself every day, even if it's only a small indulgence like a new book or a bar of chocolate. Try to have a little time to yourself as well, even if it is only 10 minutes away from the kids. 

So here are 6 important ways to look after your family. Do you have any more ideas?

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What To Look For In Your Next Lease Car

When it comes to getting your new family car, it can be tough to know what to look for. After all, different families have different requirements for a family car, and some may also have some preferences on the brand or the fuel type.

There are also many other things to consider – have you got the funds to buy outright or are you looking at leasing a reliable car? Here are the things you should be looking for when looking to get a new car for the family.

Plenty Of Space

car for the family

When it comes to families, a car with plenty of space is a must. No one family is the same, so whilst a family with two parents and two kids might be happy in a small to medium size car, a family with more children are going to need one with more room inside. Add in the fact that you might also have a pet dog and space really becomes a necessity. Don't forget the boot space for shopping too!

The perfect family car has enough seats and plenty of boot space so every member, furry or human, can be comfortable on any journey you have to make. If you have children in car seats, it is worth seeing if they will all fit in comfortably. A medium size SUV can be a good choice for a growing family. 

It’s Got To Be Comfortable

A big thing when it comes to buying a car is how comfortable it is. It is important that a family car is comfortable for all people in the car, so it is worth getting the family to come and test the car out too. For the driver, lumbar support and an adjustable driving position are important, and everyone will benefit from a more plush and padded seat in the car. 

If the children are teenagers, why not give them a say in which car they prefer? Perhaps narrow it down to two you like and allow them to pick.

A Good Safety Rating

Safety is paramount when it comes to cars and if you are buying a car for the family, you will want to be sure it is of the highest of safety standards. Do your research – if you come across a car, you think would be perfect, make sure you know exactly what safety rating it has. If it is anything less than excellent, look for something else.

It shouldn’t be too hard to find a family car with a decent safety rating as most modern cars have a relatively decent safety specification but the one with the best safety credentials will always be the safest choice. The Money Advice Service have a guide on some of the safest cars to drive which is worth checking out.

What Is Your Budget?

family car

Whether you are buying outright or leasing a car, you will have a figure in mind of what you want to pay. Family cars do tend to be a little more expensive than smaller cars due to the size, so it is important to know what budget you have available. Once you know, then you can narrow the search to find something suitable for you. 

Maybe a longer lease agreement will make the car you want more affordable every month, although it could add to the cost in the long term. 

Added Extras

These are the things that you don’t necessarily need but are a nice addition. Some cars have smartphone integration which means you can link up accounts such as your Spotify and Audible – a decent audiobook will definitely keep the kids entertained on long journeys. Rear camera parking is another added extra that can be useful when choosing a car, as well as sun protection from tinted windows.  Whilst some people may not want these, these added extras are a must for some people, so they are worth considering.

These are just a few things you should consider when looking to buy a new family car. What are your musts when it comes to a new car?

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Five Ways to Celebrate Family Landmark Events in 2021

Out with the old, in with the new. That has always been the motto for the beginning of a new year. This New Year, however, is a little bit different. The old has stuck with us, following us into the New Year. We are, of course, talking about the Coronavirus pandemic. The pandemic that has forced us to put social restrictions in place, preventing us from physically being with our family and friends for most of last year and during the holidays.  This is an ad.

But if there is anything this past year has taught us, it is that there are still plenty of other ways to have fun, to create happy memories and to celebrate the events in our lives while still practising social distancing. Embracing these ways has become our only hope for surviving the pandemic, even now as we usher in the New Year.

For young parents with toddlers, embracing these new ways is an even bigger task. Apart from protecting their children against the harsh Coronavirus pandemic, they also have to create a loving environment for them and strive to connect and celebrate with them all the important events of 2021.

Here are five practical ways in which parents can celebrate the landmark events of 2021 with their children and wider family /friends:

Virtual Birthday Parties

birthday Zoom

Just because we cannot physically get together for a party does not mean that you have to cancel the party. You can still organize an online birthday party for your big or little kids and let them enjoy their birthday the “new” way.

And, because technology is on our side, there are numerous apps that you can use to organize the party. From Zoom to Skype and even Google Meet, you can schedule the party with family and friends, put up decorations, buy presents and a cake and make the most out of the day. You can also include online games and birthday dances to the mix to add more fun!

Sending Online Gifts to Celebrate Milestones

family with baby on laptop

There is nothing as thrilling as when your baby achieves a milestone. Whether it is saying those first precious words, taking those first steps, or learning the Alphabet, you should celebrate every milestone. If you are not physically present to celebrate it with them due to the pandemic, do not worry. You can always send gifts via online means and then schedule a Skype meeting to see their expressions as they unwrap the gifts.

If your baby is one year old and you do not know what to get them as either their first birthday gifts or a gift for achieving a milestone, we have a solution for you. Buying gifts for one year olds is easy. The only thing they know to do at that age is pulling, pushing, moving things around, putting things together and learning to speak.

Gift them books that can teach them words, toys that they can take apart and put together again like blocks and toys that they can push around or play with like trucks or cute stuffed animals.

Send Online Cards To Lift Their Spirits

kids on laptop

Just like adults, children are experiencing a change with the Pandemic. As much as you try to hide it from them, they can sense that something is different. Either dad is not coming home as often, they are not getting as many toys as before, or their friends are not coming over to play.

It is important to talk to your kids about the Pandemic and explain to them how it is affecting your lives. Once you talk to them, assure them that all will be well, and occasionally send them a cute online card that will uplift their spirits. You can also send cards that remind them of how much you love them and how proud of them you are.

Try To Continue With The Holiday Traditions

family on laptop Christmas

Traditions are traditions for a reason. They give us a sense of belonging and assure us that even if all goes wrong, we still have one thing that will stay the same. During this time, it is vital to maintain the holiday traditions and any other traditions you have in the family. It will not only calm the kids, but it will also make them enjoy their holidays and important events as normally as possible.

Skype With Them Regularly

kid and mum

If your schedule means that you’re having to be more of a remote parent, then being away from the family during this time can be particularly hard for both you and the kids. To keep up with their growth and daily activities, skype or call your kids regularly. Do not wait until there is an important event or when they achieve something to call them.

Although, during landmark events, you can spice up the call by sending them gifts in advance or by reading them a bedtime story. 

So here are 5 ways to celebrate family landmark events in 2021. Do you have any ideas?

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10 Tips For Keeping The Whole Family Happy During The Six-week Summer Holiday

That’s right, I’m already making plans for the six-week school holidays. I’ve been chatting about my plans with a few friends recently and it turns out we’ve got a good mix of activities to work from ahead of the big summer break. With that in mind, I’ve put together a list of tips that will hopefully help you make the most of the summer with the family.



1. Know what the little ones want
It may seem obvious, but sometimes we’re all so busy making a fuss over how best to treat our little ones that we completely forget to ask what they want to do. Are they wanting to go out? Play in the garden? Visit that aunt and uncle you hardly ever get to see? Finding out how your kids want to spend this time is a great first step and shows how their personalities are developing, too!

2. Make your summer holidays visual

Don’t have a calendar at home? Get out the crayons, colouring pens and glitter, because making your own and marking the activities down yourself is half the fun. It also gets your kids adjusted to structured days, although it doesn’t need to be as rigid as a school timetable.

3. Spark up their imaginations with a big trip

Contrary to popular belief, you don’t have to break the budget for this one. Whether you’re off to marvel at the models at Legoland or are heading for Hogwarts Castle on a Warner Bros Studio Tour, this is the perfect time to make those big trips happen. Of course, plenty of parents will have the same idea, so booking ahead to beat the rush is always advised.

4. Remember that downtime is also important


You don’t have to make every day an adventure – nobody’s expecting you to be a six-week superhero after all. Keep some quieter days, or even completely free ones, on that schedule you all made. How you spend that time is up to you, and again, is something you can talk about with the youngsters. Do they want a movie day? Ready the duvets and the popcorn. Fancy trotting around the neighbourhood catching Pokémon? Pack a small picnic and head out on your way!

5. Mark your memories creatively

One of the best ways to make each day of the summer holidays count is by making a scrapbook. While it’s a similar principle to the chart of days you started the school holidays with, this lets the kids decide which moments were their favourites and choose to feature them. If printing your photos is a hassle, you can also encourage them to do drawings or write about their experiences to fill up some space.

6. Have a clear out

As the kids get older, it’s important to notice how their interests and hobbies change. Get the family together and make clearing the clutter fun. I’m not saying that the glorious day has come when the kids are finally over Paw Patrol, but it’s a step in the right direction.

7. Unplug


The summer holiday at least implies there’ll be sunshine sooner or later, so heading to the park, the beach or the football pitch makes for a top day out that keeps things cheap and cheerful. It’s also a welcome step away from technology. Getting your kids to understand that they can have fun without computer games, tablets or phones is a brilliant use of holiday time – perhaps that’s why board games are outselling videogames once again.

8. Don’t stress about the schedule

I know, I know. This seems massively counter-intuitive to everything I’ve been saying, but it’s a simple trick to keep in mind even beyond the six week holidays. Put simply, don’t sweat the small stuff! We all deal with life’s little curveballs in different ways – either by having backup plans or staying flexible – but the key is to make sure that if one of your holiday days goes awry, you’re not tearing your hair out.

9. Make time for mum and dad

My tips are about the whole family, remember. We’re all busy being the everyday heroes our kids need us to be, but making time during their school break for yourself or your partner is equally important. Whether the kids are staying with a relative or you’re just snatching those precious moments when they’re asleep, make sure you give yourself the downtime you deserve.

10. Reconnect


The daily schedule of waking up, getting the kids dressed and taking them to school means that we’re often burning time away without having a moment to get to know our little ones. We all love to think we know what makes them tick, and in a very real way we do, but they’re growing and changing all the time. The summer holidays should ultimately be about one thing, and that’s making sure that the whole family is as close as ever.

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Fun But Educational Days Out

A day out with the kids should be a fun treat for the whole family. A chance to go somewhere new, see something unexpected, and learn something interesting. 

So how do you decide where to go and how do you make a fun trip educational, and, indeed, an educational trip fun? 

Rossall School explain how to go about planning a day trip that is educational, without sacrificing the all-important fun.

Choosing where to visit

 Carew Castle

Britain is filled with interesting places to visit. Whatever interests your children have, from animals to aeroplanes, there is often somewhere to visit that provides a fun environment that can at the same time be educational. These places can also teach your children more about their preferred interests, as well as focus on those topics they’ve been learning and enjoying at school.  

Destinations could range from theme parks and museums to places of historical significance, like castles and Victorian manors to farms, nature reserves, and zoos. 

Because of the sheer variety of potential trips, it’s a good idea to narrow down your choices to categories that match your child’s particular interests. Science, wild animals, and trains, for instance. Not only does this mean your child will be excited about going on the trip, but they should almost certainly be more engaged with the attractions and exhibits during the visit.

Try using websites like TripAdvisor or tourism board sites to identify the best places to take the kids for the day. It’s worth looking for the rating of the destination. It’s also a good idea to research what’s around it, such as restaurants, shops, picnic sites, and play areas to help you can plan your day.

Also, check the busiest visiting times. It might be worth planning your trip to avoid these times, so you can see everything without the hustle and bustle of big crowds.

How is the trip educational?



Cadbury's World

Some day trips, like to the beach, or a chocolate factory for example, might not sound particularly educational. However, any trip can be educational if you really put your mind to it. For instance, during a day trip to the beach, kids with a love of marine life could spend hours searching through rock pools and identifying different sea creatures. Or a child with an interest in dinosaurs could visit beaches at Whitby or Ilfracombe to spend the day hunting for fossils and using the resources in the area to find out more about their discoveries. You can find out about the history of chocolate at Cadbury's World too.

The National Trust website has a fantastic section on fossil hunting, as well as information about other places to visit where parents and kids can enjoy the great outdoors and explore.

Tying a day trip to such an interest is a great way for your children to engage in their favourite subjects, but it can also introduce them to new ones or topics they’re learning at school. In the case of a trip to the beach or a nature reserve, this could be an interest in nature and biology.

Making sure the trip’s fun

Margam Park

For a child, a trip to a museum or country estate might not sound particularly fun or interesting. So, when looking at potential destinations to visit, as part of your planning, it’s a good idea to look at similar options to see which attraction will be more entertaining for the kids.

A castle, for instance, with grounds and gardens open to the public, provides a nice walk and the chance to see some interesting insects, birds and wildlife. Whereas a castle that presents displays of medieval life, with knights and jousting events, which visitors can watch and take part in, provides children a with a fun way to build their knowledge of history.

Activities like this, which allow children to get involved, do something tactile and hands-on is a great way for them to learn. It can also help them understand a particular topic better and make it more memorable.

Back-up plans

The British weather can be temperamental and hinder some day trips, especially those outdoor. So it’s wise to look at other options nearby, should the weather take a turn for the worse.

If you’re planning a trip and you’re worrying that the weather might be an issue, consider looking at visits with mainly indoor activities. Aquariums and science museums, for instance, are indoor attractions that are both fun and educational and ideal for a rainy day.

When it comes to thinking about fun and educational places to take the kids, it’s a good idea to plan ahead too. So the next time your child comes home talking about what they’ve learned at school, or proudly announces some new knowledge about their latest interest, keep a note of it and think about using that to inspire where you can go for your next family day out.

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Children Grow Up Fast

Children grown up fast. 

It only seemed like yesterday my son, J was born. Such a happy and affectionate child, so cheerful and full of life. He used to love his baths, playing in the water, watching it going down the plug - the 'whirlpool' as he called it.

He used to love Teletubbies, Pingu and Thomas the Tank engine. He always loved drawing and used to draw pictures of me, and loved making cards for my birthday. He didn't say much before the age of two but it didn't worry me as I knew he was bright as a button.

He started a local nursery attached to a school when he was two and a half. He wasn't really ready though and I didn't realise this at first. Due to his speech difficulties he became frustrated easily and had the odd temper tantrum. He would also get excited when asked questions and would shout out instead of putting his hand up. When I went to see the nursery teacher, she basically implied he would never attend mainstream school due to his behaviour. To say I was upset and outraged was an understatement. I took my son out of the nursery and put him into a less formal playgroup, where he blossomed, with support.





J as a baby

As he got older, I almost dreaded the day he was about to start school. I must admit I shed a tear, on his first day at the local infant school, whilst he was happy to go in.

Due to his speech difficulties, there were some ups and downs and it wasn't easy at first, but slowly his speech improved.

Every day before he went to school we would cuddle up on the sofa under a blanket keeping warm, enjoying the fresh smell of Fairy from the blanket and watch the TV together. This was our morning ritual.

I knew he was/is incredibly talented and creative and I always encouraged this at home as well, every spare minute he was creating a new masterpiece, at first his dabs of paint looked more like just what they were, dabs of paint but as he got older he refined his skills and became accomplished at painting and drawing people.



J starting school

My son is now in the sixth form but I will let you into a little secret. We still have our hugs on the sofa in the morning. He may now be towering over me, he may have had a couple of girlfriends in the past, he may now have size 10 feet but he's still my little boy. I won't embarrass him any further by posting an up-to-date photo of him though ...

He was away on holiday when his GCSE results came through. They were being posted to the house, and so I was waiting eagerly for them to come that morning. Eleven o' clock came and they still hadn't arrived. I started pacing, walking up and down the streets trying to find the postman! I finally tracked him down, apparently the post was still in the sorting office. I sprinted over to the sorting office and explained the situation and luckily it was there. I couldn't wait to open the envelope and ran back home... as I opened the envelope tears were streaming down my face. My lovely boy, who was told he wouldn't attend mainstream education at two and a half had done brilliantly - nine GCSES at grades A to C, and an I.T qualification, I couldn't believe it!

I rang him and he was so happy. He spent hours getting extra maths lessons and he actually had a B grade in Maths as well as three other subjects and an A * in Art. My heart was beating so fast, as I was so proud of him. 


The Joker by J (at age 15)

J's talent for art is exceptional. He is a brilliant artist and uses a fine brushing technique with oils to create lifelike paintings of film stars and real people, as well as being interested in fantasy and science fiction art.

Last year I was also incredibly proud when he was nominated for and won a special award in his school for Art. The memorial award in memory of a child who died early who had a talent for art, was for his talent in oil painting. Again I must admit I took some tissues when he collected his award.

He is now in his final year at school studying A levels. He hopes to work in the film industry in the future working on special effects and motion graphics. When we were in LA last year I joked I hope one day to see him collecting an Academy Award for special effects at the Sony Theatre in Hollywood. J laughed this off but one day this could actually be a reality.

Fairy non bio have a campaign called the #PowerofSoft. The purpose is to encourage parents to embrace every single moment with your children before they grow up. You can check out their video here. 


Children grow up fast, enjoy those moments with them, enjoy those cuddles in the morning, nurture their talents and their abilities and always believe in them, even when others don't.


* a sponsored post, all words, opinions and true stories are my own
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Website Review PKTMNY - A Bank Account for Children, Using and Learning

I have been given the task to review a new website for children called PKTMNY. PKTMNY is a new way for children 8 to 16 to learn how to earn, save, and spend wisely. 


PKTMNY is supported by a new type of VISA card and has an easy to use secure website that offers a range of savings tools. The website is designed for parents by parents and the interface is engaging and colourful to appeal to children. 

The parent and the child have their own login that they can use to monitor pocket money sent and pocket money received and any transactions, and is easy to use and control. The child can set their own pin and upload a picture to personalise their account.

What I like as a parent about this website is that you can set limits on how much the child spends on the card. It gives you control over their spending but still gives the child the illusion of control as they can spend within the guidelines you set.

As a parent, I feel it can incentivise the child to do certain extra tasks for pocket money which you can pay on top of their regular amount, for example for washing the car or doing well in school.

What did my son think of the site? My son is a 15-year-old teenager, at the top end of the age range they aim at. He liked the colourful nature of the site, however, we both felt it was geared to younger children. A more 'adult' interface or customisable interface was his idea for future improvements, and they are taking this into consideration.


My son used his card on Amazon to buy a gift voucher. He thought it was easy to use and had no problems placing the order on my Amazon account with his PKTMNY card. 

 We are using the bank account to save for holiday spending money and we both felt it was nice to see a visual representation of the money as a saving goal on the website.  

 As a parent, I think the website can help focus your conversations with your children about money, finances and also importantly the value of saving for a goal. 

PKTMNY charges a one-off joining fee of £5 per family and a monthly fee of £1 per child to use their services. This is deducted from the parent's outstanding balance, not the child's. The PKTMNY team are working on minimising any fees and keeping the costs low to run the account. There are no fees for using the Visa card online to buy products in the UK and no fees for funding the account via standing order. 

 In conclusion, a colourful engaging bank account for pre-teens and teenagers that can help them manage and appreciate the value of money. 

 Update PKYMNY is now called GoHenry http://www.gohenry.co.uk/why-gohenry/

 This post is part of a project with BritMums, sponsored by PKTMNY, highlighting it's launch (http://www.pktmny.com). The new tool allows parents to easily pay and monitor their children's pocket money online, whilst allowing their children to earn, save, spend and manage their money in a totally safe and fun way. 

 * We have been trialling the service and all thoughts and opinions are our own.
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