PARENTHOOD: Organisational Tips for Going Back to School after Lockdown

*Advertorial Content - Gifted Items 

Three months into 2021 and we are finally starting to see the end of the third lockdown in the UK and the second lockdown that involved having all schools closed to the majority of pupils. The last time our children were at school was in 2020, so it is fair to say WELL DONE to everyone who has just got through the past few months of home learning. It's been a rollercoaster to say the least, but now that my eldest is back at school and my middle child is back at pre-school the house is a lot quieter. I have to admit I miss the chaos, the feeling of being so involved in Isabella's learning and the extra 'bonus' time together, but seeing them with their friends again made me realise how important school/pre-school is for them. 

CHRISTMAS: The Ultimate Gift Guide for Children 2020

*Advertorial Content - Gifted Items 

The gift options for children are vast and can be overwhelming at times. The television adverts, posters, endless toys in shops etc. all inspire the present possibilities for children. However, actually deciding which ones are worth the money and will be played with for longer than a couple of minutes can be the tricky part as a parent. In this gift guide I have put together a wide range of presents that would suit an array of ages, interests and price points. I do also have a £10 and under stocking fillers gift guide, if you're looking for slightly smaller gifts too. The excitement children have for Christmas is part of the reason it is such a magical time of year, so I always find it really special putting together my children's presents each year. Imaging their excited little faces as they open them is just the best feeling, isn't it?  

CHRISTMAS: Gift Guide for Children £10 and Under

*Advertorial Content - Gifted Items 

If you're listening Father Christmas, this is the Gift Guide for you! It is filled with stocking filler ideas that will keep children entertained, excited and learning new skills over the festive season. From edible treats and stationary heaven to learning new magic tricks and imaginative play, there are affordable ideas for all interests. These presents would also be perfect for children to give their friends and I've tried to include gifts suitable for a range of ages too. 

ADVENT CALENDARS: A Guide for the Whole Family 2020

*Advertorial Content - Gifted Items

Well, what a year it has been. I don't think any of us were expecting a worldwide pandemic and the impact that had on every area of life when we were sitting around eating Christmas dinner last year. It's quite shocking to think back really, but we can't let the ever changing restrictions and regulations ruin the run up to Christmas. This year, more than ever before, we all need something positive and exciting to focus on. It is looking like Christmas won't be a 'normal' one, but something we can do is treat ourselves and/or loved ones to an advent calendar that will bring a smile to their face every day during December. Each year the world of advent calendars becomes even bigger, better and more exciting, as the offerings provide excellent value for money and the designs simply wow. 

BACK TO SCHOOL: Supporting Children with the Return after Lockdown

*Advertorial Content - Gifted Items

In the United Kingdom our Primary and Secondary Schools have been shut for six months now, with only select years allowed back for a short time prior to the summer holidays beginning. These past six months have been a rollercoaster of emotions to say the least, as many parents suddenly found themselves needing to juggle home learning, their own work and dealing with the constant unknowns of this pandemic. However, fast forward six months and we've made it! Personally, I've been teaching Isabella whilst looking after a three year old and a five, six, seven, eight, nine and finally ten month old and trying to keep up with work. It's been such a struggle at times, but I have to admit I feel so proud of, not only myself, but of every single parent out there who has survived this time too. 

FESTIVE: Advent Calendar Guide for the Whole Family 2019

*Advertorial Content - Gifted Items

The world of advent calendars has changed quite a lot since my childhood when there were two options...chocolate or pictures. Nowadays the number of different advent calendars increases each year with many getting all the more extravagant, creative and impressive. It's so exciting to see what the new releases will be; there really is something for the whole family, gone have the days when advent calendars were just for children. We can now join in on the magic as the countdown to Christmas begins on December 1st, so I thought I'd put together a guide to some of the best advent calendars available on the market this year. It doesn't matter whether you're shopping for your little ones, loved ones or treating a friend; there is the perfect advent calendar out there for them and hopefully these will inspire you.

CHILDREN: The Ways I Have Been Supporting Isabella in Readiness for Starting School

*Advertorial Content - Gifted Items

Isabella starts school this September and as sad as I am about this milestone already being here we have been doing quite a few things over the past year really to support the transition between home/nursery life into school life. Perhaps one of the most helpful things we did was to reduce her hours at nursery and enrol her into the Pre-School that is attached to what will be her Primary School. I know this won't be an option for many due to schools not having pre-schools or working hours, but if it is I would highly recommend looking into it.