Quick note: Some of the links on this page are affiliate links; if you go through them to make a purchase, I will earn a commission. I only recommend products I use myself and think would be useful for other people.
AD – own products. If you haven’t already heard, we launched our family T-Shirt business today! roaringpumpkintees is born. We’ve worked hard over the last six months – drawing, editing images and creating the look and feel of the website.
I’m so proud of my achievements with the launch of this blog, then the second and third blogs. In addition to a new family endeavour, which allows us to get our little one involved in the whole process. She even helps me click buttons to create designs for my blogs. And it’s teaching her great lessons, about working hard, managing money and following your dreams.
I wanted to go into a bit more detail on why I chose this name for the first business I set up
roaringpumpkintees.com
My toddler is full of sass, definitely has a fierce spirit and is exactly like her mummy in this respect. We are both stubborn and when we put our minds to something, we will not be stopped. Under any circumstances! I am proud of my toddler and I want to always nurture her roaring pumpkin spirit. Even if she can be frustrating at times (as I’m sure all toddlers are). I’ve spent my life being misunderstood by many people around me. But I am now at a point where I value the people who make time to understand me. We are all unique and it should be celebrated.
Following a difficult pregnancy, mental health problems throughout early pregnancy. A traumatic birth, returning to a high-pressure job just as covid hit, and then work pressure whilst working from home. This perfect storm would be enough to push anyone to breaking point. For me, it inevitably resulted in a mental breakdown. And it would be a full 18 months before I felt anything like myself again. During this time, I felt compelled to set up my first mental health blog. And subsequently set up another twoblogs. I completely changed careers, twice, and worked on my self-development through a hypnotherapy course – with a great therapist.
Here are some reasons you should start your own, online business
Low Start Up Costs
The only cost to you is setting up a website. The actual printing is facilitated by another company, meaning the risk to you is minimal.
Everyone loves T-Shirts
Who doesn’t love a quirky design on a T-Shirt? I’ve always loved them and as a family, we own loads of them. Why not put your own creative ideas out there, for other people to buy?
Add another income stream to your life
It’s no secret that I would love to run my blogs full-time. However, anyone in the blogging industry understands these things take time. And in the meantime, I have bills to pay. It’s also wonderful that I’ve finally found a day job I love so much!
Adding another income stream to your existing side hustles can allow you more financial freedom, to make decisions about your future. Or address anything you need to pay off before you start meeting your future financial goals.
The ability to work from home
The world has changed dramatically since 2019. Working from home is now the norm for a lot of people. Setting up any online business will allow you to work from home, on your own terms.
You get to do something you’re passionate about
We are all creatives in our house. It’s something I want to nurture in my toddler. Staring your own online T-Shirt business can allow you to show off your creative side. And basque in the excitement of coming up with new designs. Sharing your passion with everyone else.
If you’re ready to start your own T-Shirt business, sign up to Teemill with my referral link
Some of our designs – click on the image to purchase…
Final Thoughts
I’m so happy we now have a family-run business. With designs, we have created together and that means something to us. Hopefully, they will also mean something to you.
We have an independent toddler. She has her mummy’s personality. Although it can be difficult to manage at times, I want to nurture this side of her.
We’ve had a difficult few weeks, learning about emotions and basically having a fight for independence. As parents, we have lots of tools in place and we’ve always allowed her certain freedoms. The last few weeks have been about putting tools in place to manage emotions, whilst also encouraging independence. Challenging, but I’m sure it will be rewarding in the long run.
Quick note: Some of the links contained on this page are affiliate links and if you go through them to make a purchase, I will earn a commission. I only recommend products I use myself and think would be useful for other people.
Today I want to share with you the practical tasks we allow our toddler to do around the house. And more importantly, how this creates independence
Why it’s essential to allow a toddler to make their own decisions
We have an independent and determined toddler. However, even if we didn’t, we would still allow our children to make daily choices. Simply because it teaches great life lessons. In the future, she will need to be empowered in decision-making, in order to be successful in life.
It’s an important step in growing up. And gives them some power and control over what they do.
Benefits of providing choices include:
Giving them some control
Avoiding power-struggles
Teaching cause and effect
Helping them gain confidence.
Trust in themselves and their opinions
Self-confidence
Decisiveness
Thoughtfulness
Analytical thinking
Empathy
Here are a few tips for offering toddlers choices
Avoid too many options. Stick to two or three
Offer clear and simple choices
Make sure choices are age-appropriate, like picking what to wear or what to play with
I want to discuss some of the freedoms and choices we give our toddler. And how those choices help to teach valuable life lessons
Picking their own drinks & snacks
To successfully allow this to happen, you can ensure everything they need is easy to reach. Such as plastic toddler plates and cups, along with fridge organisers containing the snacks. Even down to a separate small bottle of milk in the fridge. The latest addition to our accessible snacks is easy-to-reach cereal dispensers. We recently bought a small dining table, so she can sit and make her own snacks safely.
Permission from an adult is a must, but the physical act of getting the snacks prepared is down to the toddler. Be prepared for spillages and mishaps – explaining it’s fine and it will clean up. As you would with any other accident in the house. At the nursery, the class learn to break up their own cereal and become more independent at meal times – something we want to mirror at home.
These days she tells me, “I’m helping you mummy because you’re busy” and it’s so lovely to watch her becoming an independent child.
Providing a choice of activities for the day can make a toddler feel empowered to feel part of the family. And more importantly, decision-making skills are developed.
It’s also more fun as an adult to just go with the flow. As parents, we see through any decision she makes. This is an important step in making your little person feel fully empowered and listened to.
What this teaches
Independence
Socials skills
Avoiding power-struggles
Their opinion matters
Their input is valuable
Picking out their own clothes
Ensuring the clothes are in an accessible and safe place is a must. But why not let the toddler go out in trousers which are back to front, if it enables them to learn to dress themselves?
I’ve done this before when we are going out on a quick journey. Some battles are simply not worth fighting.
What this teaches
Independence
Self-care skills
Learning where the clothes are located, for next time
Our toddler now has the weekly task of filling up the toilet roll holders in the bathroom. And I’m making a big deal of the fact it’s her job and she’s really good at it. Giving praise to your toddler when they complete the smallest of tasks can give them confidence.
Setting the table
At the moment we are struggling with meal times. She is fidgeting and it turns into a negotiation about how much she will eat. We are working on it – but that’s a whole other blog post!
Setting the table has helped in allowing the whole family to sit down for a meal and talk about our day. This routine and her feeling she contributed her part really help tackle the other issues we are facing.
Put dirty clothes in the laundry basket
As a toddler, she gets very dirty clothes. We have regular paint stains from the nursery. Tomato sauce stains from eating. And I won’t go into the toilet habits she is learning at the moment. Let’s just say, this creates more washing for the parents involved.
Getting her to put dirty clothes into the laundry basket can help to explain the process of washing clothes. And hopefully, make her realise that natural consequences occur when a mess happens. That said, we want to nurture the creative, messy, painting side. It’s just great to teach her about the consequences of accidents and other inappropriate messy behaviour.
It’s all a learning curve – for us as parents, and for her.
I recently introduced you all to our hamster, Fluffy. For anyone who’s ever had a hamster as a pet, you will know it’s about perseverance. We have a female and she is also very independent. My toddler apparently stood in Pets At Home and said “This is the one for me” and I maintain to this day that they are kindred spirits. Anyhow, it’s been a long road trying to tame her and we are not even at the picking-up stage yet.
Download the free toddler chores checklist – amend as needed or download the PDF file below:
Despite this, both my toddler and hamster are doing well. My toddler can now open the cage, and hand the hamster treats. And because Fluffy knows her smell she carefully takes the treat from her.
The cutest moments involve my toddler sitting by the cage and telling Fluffy about her day. The next step is creating an obstacle course (with safety gates so she can’t escape) and taking her out of the cage for playtime – TikTok videos will follow. Watch this space.
As parents, we’ve always explained the importance of recycling. And thanks to programmes like Cocomelon it was easy to do! We have separate recycling and rubbish bins and frequently ask her to put rubbish away for us.
This has in turn resulted in her also taking plates and cups to the kitchen when we’ve finished eating. As a parent, it’s like being looked after in a cafe and it’s actually really nice.
Check out all the other blog posts in the parenting section:
Our toddler loves standing on her stool and helping with the washing up. We make sure the water is lukewarm and she only has plastic plates and cups to wash up. Her grandparents also mirror this when she stays at their house. It’s a great task to allocate to a toddler, with parental supervision of course.
Making the bed
What toddler doesn’t love making bed day? A chance to jump on a freshly stripped bed. We now get her involved in putting the pillowcases back on and sorting out the duvet cover.
Setting up the bathroom for bath time
Our little one knows where her bath towels are and we have a box with bath toys in it. Because we sometimes get morning baths and we are in a rush, she always asks me whether she can play with her bath toys first.
We also have a basket with shampoos and body wash – she is learning which one to use in which area of her body. And also now washes her own hair. She’s even recently got out of the bath, using her stool and we find her chilling on the sofa in her bath towel.
Gardening
Our little pumpkin was recently given a sunflower by my dad’s work friend and she regularly waters it. She’s also got her own gardening tools. When we move house, the aim is to build her a mud kitchen. I’m sure this will contribute to the volume of dirty clothes I need to wash. But it’s all good fun.
Clearing away toys
Something nursery teaches the toddlers, is tidy-up time. Where regardless of who has made the mess, they all participate in the tidying-up efforts.
At home, we’ve recently organised toys into storage boxes and explained where each one lives. As a parent, it makes my life much easier. And she is learning to put toys back into the correct, allocated boxes.
Dust furniture and clean the glass
Like any toddler, she loves spraying water. It was only right that we eventually gave her these small cleaning tasks around the house. Because of the chemicals involved it’s only recently she’s allowed to do it. And we are careful to explain she should only spray the surface and wipe it with a cloth. (DISCLAIMER -parental supervision is also involved and she is a pretty intelligent child, who would never mess around with chemicals anyway).
In turn, this has also helped with her aiming her toddler perfume in the right direction too!
Final Thoughts
I hope you enjoyed reading about the tasks we give our toddler to encourage independence.
What tips do you have for dealing with toddler emotions and encouraging independence?
Please share them in the comments, because they will help other parents out there.
Let’s dive into the Boosting Your Quality of Life as a Mum…
As a mum, your children will always be your priority. So much so, that it can often be the case that you end up falling to the bottom of the list! If you’re someone who experiences stress and anxiety, it might be time to change that. Even though we don’t always think of ourselves first, we deserve to have a better quality of life and feel content too. Here are five tips to help you to do this.
1. Look After Your Body
First of all, the one thing you need to focus on here is looking after yourself more. It’s safe to say that you won’t always feel the best if you’re not taking care of your physical health. Simple changes to your lifestyle, such as moving more, drinking more water, and eating well, can help you have more energy and feel amazing. This will have a huge impact on your quality of life.
2. Delegate Well
But it’s not just how we treat ourselves that can cause problems or cause chaos in our lives. As mums, we often take on too much and feel stretched thin. Not only do we have ourselves to take care of, but we have the children, our partners, and our wider family too. But there’s no reason why you have to do it all alone and not ask for help. It might be asking for more support around the house, enquiring about home care for your elderly parents, or dividing up childcare. Either way, this can help you to free up your mental load and improve your quality of life.
3. Make Time for Fun
This one might seem frivolous at face value, but it’s important if you want to boost your quality of life. We can all focus on the things that we’re required to do and neglect things that feel like fun. But having fun and enjoying yourself is a huge part of feeling good and living well. Whether it’s fun as a family, a date night with your significant other, or time with friends, making more time for fun in your life is important.
4. Do Things Just For You
As a step on from the previous point, there’s also the idea of doing more things that matter to you, just because you can. As mums, we often put everyone else above us – yet what we want is important too. So if there are things you want to do just for you, whether it’s beauty treatments, holidays, or hobbies, don’t feel guilty about making them a priority!
5. Take Your Health Seriously
It’s also important for you to make sure that you’re taking your holistic health seriously too. This isn’t just about looking after your body and making sure that you’re healthy in that regard – but you need to make sure that you’re mind is protected too. It’s important for you not to get stressed out or overwhelmed in life. If you are prioritising your relaxation and allowing yourself to feel your best, it’s going to allow you to become a better parent and partner too. By focusing on your quality of life and happiness, everyone benefits!
As a parent, you’ll buy countless gifts for your kids. Birthdays and the holidays will be the biggest occasions for this. While this can be relatively easy when they’re kids, it often gets a little more complicated as they get older. Their teenage years could be the worst for this.
You may struggle to buy a gift for your teen because you don’t know what to get them. With a few tips, though, you can figure out exactly what to get them while still keeping it a surprise.
Buy a Gift For Your Teen: 3 Tips to Use
1. Consider Experiences
When most people think of gifts, they picture physical objects. As natural as that is, they’re far from the only gifts you can get your teen. You could also consider experiences, and these could be much better than physical gifts. They’ll end up being much more interesting and more memorable.
If you go down this route, it’s just a matter of making sure it’s an experience your teen will love. A spa day, camping trip, or something similar can all be great with this. You’ll end up helping your teen create memories they’ll look back on for years.
2. Consider Affordable Options
More than a few gifts could come to mind for your teen, and many of these could be quite expensive. While these might be gifts your teen will love, it doesn’t always mean you should go for the most expensive options. It could be worth considering something more affordable.
Instead of a brand new iPhone, for example, go with a refurbished iPhone 13. A lot of this revolves around whether your teen can look after their gifts. If they can’t, then they can learn how to be responsible by taking care of the more affordable option.
3. Embrace the Sentimental
While it’s natural to think you have to go with something big and expensive, you don’t always have to go this way. Sometimes, the smaller gifts could be much better recommended. If you do, it could be a matter of focusing on sentimentality to make it more meaningful.
There are plenty of options you could go with for this. Focus on something that’ll mean a lot to them and that brings back positive memories. They could end up cherishing it for years to come, and it’ll be a present they’ll love. It’ll be the best way to go.
Buy a Gift For Your Teen: Wrapping Up
It’s natural to stress a little when you need to buy a gift for your teen. You mightn’t know what to get them, and they mightn’t be too open about what they want. Thankfully, that doesn’t mean it has to be impossible.
With the right tips, it could be relatively easy. While you’ll still need to consider whether your teenager will actually like the gift, you shouldn’t have a problem making sure they do. You could take more stress out of it than you’d think.
As our parents age, navigating the emotional, practical, and financial changes that come with this transition can be difficult. It’s natural to want to avoid thinking about our loved ones growing older, but planning can ease the challenges that arise and help ensure they receive the best care. Here’s how you can prepare for and cope with this life stage.
One of the most important steps is to start discussions about ageing while your parents are still relatively healthy. It may feel uncomfortable initially, but having open and honest conversations about their wishes can prevent misunderstandings later. Discuss topics such as their preferences for healthcare, living arrangements, and how they want to be cared for in the event of serious illness. It’s also important to talk about their financial situation, including savings, pensions, and any outstanding debts.
These discussions will allow you to respect their wishes and make informed decisions when the time comes. Your parents may also feel more at ease knowing that their preferences are understood.
Understand Their Healthcare Needs
As parents age, their healthcare needs often increase. From managing medications to attending more frequent doctor’s appointments, it’s important to stay informed about their medical conditions. Make a list of any medications they take and understand the purpose of each one. If necessary, help coordinate appointments and keep records of test results and treatments. Additionally, you may want to explore options such as home care or assisted living if your parents require more help than you can provide.
Prepare Legal and Financial Documents
Ensuring all legal and financial documents are in order is crucial for preventing future stress. This may involve helping your parents create or update important documents such as their will, power of attorney, and advance care directive. A power of attorney gives someone the authority to make decisions on their behalf if they are unable to do so, while an advance care directive outlines their wishes for medical treatment.
You should also discuss their funeral arrangements. It may be a sensitive subject, but making plans in advance – such as selecting a funeral director and considering what kind of service they would like – can be a huge relief for both you and your parents when the time comes.
Look After Your Own Wellbeing
Caring for ageing parents can be emotionally and physically exhausting, so it’s important to take care of your well-being as well. Make sure you take time to rest and don’t hesitate to seek support from friends, family, or professionals. Support groups for carers can be a great resource, providing not only practical advice but also a sense of community.
Balance is key; while your parents may need more of your time and energy, it’s essential to maintain your own hobbies, relationships, and self-care routines to prevent burnout.
Final Thoughts
Facing the reality of our parents getting older can be challenging, but planning ahead ensures that we are better equipped to handle whatever the future may bring. Open conversations, understanding healthcare needs, preparing legal documents, and looking after our well-being will make this life stage more manageable. Most importantly, cherish the time you have and ensure that your parents feel valued and cared for as they age.
PLEASE NOTE – this is my honest review of Kids Pass. Based solely on my own experiences. Before writing this review, I spent over two weeks constantly searching for deals and weighing up the costs.
With another three weeks left of the school holidays in the UK, I thought it was the perfect time to share my honest thoughts on Kids Pass.
Hearing about Kids Pass
I first heard about Kids Pass in a local Facebook group and was deciding whether to sign up for one during our recent holiday. However, having looked at the type of holiday we were going on and the activities available in the area, I decided not to proceed.
Not being able to search for offers before signing up
One thing I didn’t like was that you couldn’t search for what was available in your area until you had signed up. This means the membership might not be useful for you, but you wouldn’t know until you had paid the £1.00 trial fee.
Signing up for Kids Pass
When I returned from holiday and had two weeks with my little one during the summer holidays, I signed up on the £1.00 offer. This gives you 30 days for free, after which you will be charged.
One of the main selling points of the pass – was being able to use this at a pub we visit regularly. However, upon closer inspection, they are offering 50% off the Wacky Warehouse, which no longer exists. The newly refurbished pub now has a small soft play area, which is completely free. I thought the offer was on food. It wasn’t. And I have contacted Kids Pass about it. They have responded confirming this will be passed to the offers team to update.
Have I used any offers so far?
I’ve spent two weeks trying my best to make use of some of the offers that fit our family’s needs, but I’ve come up with it not really working out in reality. When you factor in travelling costs against existing offers I can get elsewhere.
The clearest example of this I can give is:
There was a 10% voucher off at a Toby Carvery about 35 minutes drive from us. We were going out for my husband’s birthday breakfast and needed somewhere to go (a little discount is always welcome – more money to save or do other things!). But logging onto the Toby Carvery app and signing up for the first time, meant I got an offer for 25% off or kids eat free. We decided to use the kids eat free because this applied Monday-Friday and given our current circumstances, it’s unlikely we will all be together again as a family, during the week, until the next school holidays in October.
Finding better discounts directly with the vendor
My point is that I can find much better discounts online or through the retailer and book directly. With a bit of searching online, or by using cashback apps, you can often maximise discounts.
Referral link for Kids Pass
Everyone who signs up for the free trial is provided with a referral link. If you’ve read my blog before you will know I do share referral links for things I use. But on this occasion, I won’t be sharing mine for Kids Pass. The post in the Facebook group included a referral link and I have seen many other parents also sharing theirs.
Please check reviews & make your own decisions
I’ve said in my previous review posts, that you should always Google products, places to visit and services – and check the reviews before committing to purchase. Feel free to complete a Google search on Kids Pass and make your own informed choice about what is best for your family.
Blogger discounts
If you are looking for genuine discounts, the best ones I’ve ever used have been from other trusted bloggers, writing about their own experiences. Seek out someone you trust and follow what they say:
Here are some people I follow and I subscribe to their updates:
I was unsure whether to post this review, but I did want to provide my thoughts on how the membership worked for me. I have since cancelled the trial because we simply wouldn’t make use of it.
I will leave the decision to you, as to whether it would benefit your family…
Welcome to My review of The Old Bridge Cafe In Skipton.
The hubby and I recently had some time to visit Skipton town centre. I hadn’t slept well the night before and just wanted a place to sit down and feel homely. Like many other people, we usually opt for Wetherspoons, because you know what you’re getting food-wise.
I wanted to introduce you all to this little gem of a cafe that we found and tell you about our yummy breakfasts! Just check out the picture below – it was also a lovely hot drink.
Location
Address – 33 Coach Street, Skipton, BD23 1LQ, United Kingdom
Telephone number – 01756 228326
📍The Old Bridge Cafe In Skipton – As per the picture, we had the best breakfast ever. The seating was great and the atmosphere was lovely!
Check out my in-depth review of this great little gem. Where I cover – car parking, Trip Advisor reviews, food hygiene status, seating, the vibe and some information you might not know.
There is a car park right outside the cafe, which also makes the town centre accessible—bonus points for having a toilet block that was very clean and easy to use.
Address – Bridge Street Car Park – Bridge St, Skipton BD23 1LQ
As you can see from the link above, there is only one review. I am about to add another. But it’s so important for small businesses to receive reviews from customers who have visited.
Food Hygiene ratings
Did you know that you can check food hygiene ratings online? Here is the page for the Old Bridge Cafe
What did we eat
I know you all want to get stuck into the good stuff. The food we ate when we visited and what we had to drink.
The fry-up was lovely. The main selling point was the sausage, which was obviously sourced locally. And it was lovely toast with a great cup of tea to accompany the meal.
You will be pleased to know the cafe is available on JustEat for delivery.
Seating
When you first walk into the cafe, it can be a little daunting if the downstairs is full. But there is plenty of seating upstairs and we were pretty much left alone up there the whole time we ate, which was relaxing.
There is also a small outside area to the cafe’s rear, so alfresco dining if you fancy it.
Summary
I can’t wait to take my little one back for some grub. We know she would be fine sitting upstairs and I am sure she will love the food, just like we did.
Have you visited before? Do you intend to visit Skipton town centre any time soon?
I would love to hear from you in the comments below.
Summer Floral Watercolours – an immersive painting day
A 6-hour event, with an introduction to abstract floral watercolour painting led by Yorkshire artist and designer Justine Hardisty.
Join artist and designer Justine Hardisty for a day of floral watercolour painting and leave with a beautiful and unique piece of art, interpreted and created by you!
Throughout the day you will learn valuable skills and techniques that we would love you continue to develop at home!
Trip advisor reviews
You can check out all the Trip Advisor reviews here.
Welcome to The Noble Comb Hungry Horse Pub in Shipley – MCA Review.
Back in the day, this pub used to have a wacky warehouse. And as kids, we loved visiting. As an adult with my own child young now, I love the revamped feel of the pub.
We’ve recently booked a table, ate there and also used the play area.
So here is my review.
Location
Quayside, Salts Mill Road, Shipley, West Yorkshire, United Kingdom, BD18 3ST
Telephone – 01274 585 770
OPENING HOURS
Tuesday – 11:00am – 11:00pm
Wednesday – 11:00am – 11:00pm
Thursday – 11:00am – 11:00pm
Friday – 9:00am – 11:00pm
Saturday – 9:00am – 11:00pm
Sunday – 9:00am – 11:00pm
Monday – 11:00am – 11:00pm
SERVING HOURS
Tuesday – 11:00am – 9:00pm
Wednesday – 11:00am – 9:00pm
Thursday – 11:00am – 9:00pm
Friday – 9:00am – 9:00pm
Saturday – 9:00am – 9:00pm
Sunday – 9:00am – 9:00pm
Monday – 11:00am – 9:00pm
Make a booking
You can make a booking at the pub by clicking here.
How much do you love the ease of ordering on the app at Wetherspoons? Well, you can now do this at the Noble Comb in Shipley. We ordered on the app and our drinks, then the food came promptly, with a friendly service.
Play area for the kids
Although the play area is small, it’s enough for my child (5 years old) and great for preschool children. Before my little one started school, I frequently took her to pubs like this. Where she could play and I could drink several coffees. There is also an outdoor playground and adequate tables both around the indoor play area and outside.
Useful to know
Hungry Horse & Greene King jobs
Fancy working at The Noble Comb or a similar pub? Check out all the jobs here.
Want to check out my recent family day out reviews? Click here.
Summary
Have you visited The Noble Comb? Do you plan on visiting?
As a family, we’ve loved Bluey for a long time. We can relate to Chilli & Bandit. Bluey is as much for adults, as it is for kids. And I love that we can all sit down, as a family, to watch the show and thoroughly love every minute of it. In this post, I discuss my favourite Relatable Bluey Parenting Moments.
If you follow me on TikTok, you will have seen my reaction to the most recent episode of Bluey. Where fans eagerly awaited the outcome of whether the Heeler family would sell their house. And move to a new city. A huge upheaval for any young child. But we know Bluey loves to tackle social issues and difficult topics – teaching our children, and parents how to be emotionally intelligent.
As a family, we incorporate gentle parenting into our parenting style. And we love the gentle way Chilli and Bandit explain things to the girls. We are here for it. Bluey will always have a special place in my heart.
Side note – I started writing this post following Season 3 – Episode 49 – The Sign. However whilst writing, Bluey then released Season 3 – Episode 50 – Surprise. And I honestly cannot stop thinking about an older version of the character Bluey and the fact that all kids and parents grow up. We will never be this way again, at this very moment. Time is precious and it flies by quickly. I love that the show captured this sentiment, shared by many other parents.
Life can be difficult, as a parent to young kids. When you’re working hard to give them a great life. You’re tired every day and the little ones push your buttons. My blog is all about acknowledging the reality of parenting and just how difficult it can be.
Sam – Mummy Conquering Anxiety Blog
The recent episode – Season 3 – Episode 49 – The Sign
What an emotional rollercoaster the episode was. So much happened in the lead-up to the final moments. And all these little moments were like a win for the family and their extended family. We also saw some background characters getting their little wins in life. And we were cheering them on as we watched.
Why I’m writing about Bluey on my blog
Since the episode aired I’ve followed other parents’ reactions on TikTok. Every time I see the clip or hear the song, at the end of the episode, it makes me emotional again!
Writing is the way I express myself. It always has been. And this is a topic I’m enthusiastic about. For all those commenters on TikTok videos saying “they are just cartoon dogs” you probably shouldn’t read on – whilst I respect any opinion which is different to mine. I’m just not sure our opinions align. And that’s okay. It’s what makes the world go around.
Bluey fans. Parents, and anyone interested in the amazing, emotional, relatable show – stick around.
Let’s dive into the Relatable Bluey Parenting Moments – the show presented us with, long before the eagerly-anticipated recent episode:
1. Season 1 – Episode 14: Takeaway
Parenting takeaway: Sometimes you have to ditch your plans & have fun with the kids
The episode shows the chaos that can ensue when young children have to wait around and become bored. Parents – the struggle is real. And I love that the Bluey creators show how difficult it can be. Especially if you are lone parenting with two kids. The episode is also hilarious to watch. And heartwarming that Bandit eventually joins in the fun, with the kids. Chilli knew all along – the kids wouldn’t have the patience to wait.
2. Season 1 – Episode 3: Keepy Uppy
Parenting takeaway:Sometimes fun can cross over into not so much fun for the littlies
It might be a dad thing. But the dad in our house sometimes takes the fun too far. And maybe this is what dads are supposed to do. We can all relate to Bandit:
“Did I make it a little too fun? It’s a hard one to get right.” Any parents will know that it is a hard one to get right. The whole parenting thing in general.
3. Season 2 – Episode 40: Octopus
Parenting takeaway: We aren’t always the best at everything
As parents, we’ve all experienced a slight bit of jealousy. Sometimes, I feel like I can’t play games as well as Daddy can. Daddy probably envies me for my organisational skills. As parents, we learnt to play to our strengths. And not be offended if the little one goes to one parent over the other. She seeks different qualities from each of us.
This episode explores finding your way, as a family, when having fun.
4. Season 2 – Episode 26: Sleepytime
Parenting takeaway: You are the whole world to your kids
This episode gets me in the feels. Because it is so heartwarming and the music brings out all the emotion. All our kids know, is us. Their immediate family. At such a young age, they rely on us for everything. Which can be overwhelming at times. But beautiful. The episode reminds me to cherish these moments with the little one, whilst she is still little.
5. Season 2 – Episode 43: Duck Cake
Parenting takeaway: All parents lose it sometimes – and that is okay
I’ve talked on my blog and TikTok about being triggered as a parent. Every human being walking this earth has automatic reactions, that we can’t always control. That is okay. Bandit shows a real human side in this episode, which then causes the kids to listen. Sometimes, when there is chaos in the house – these moments are needed. it’s a good lesson for the kids on cause and effect. Teaching them that life has consequences – everyone, even adults, can become overwhelmed.
6. Season 2 – Episode 50: Grandad
Parenting takeaway: no matter how old you and your kids are – they will always be your kids
The end of the episode always gets me emotional. The episode explores the relationship of a daughter and dad when old age creeps in and the roles are slightly reversed.
At the end, Chilli asks if her dad remembers her running around when she was young, to which he replies “It wasn’t a long time ago; it was yesterday.“
7. Season 1, Episode 22: The Pool
Parenting takeaway: you will never remember everything you need for a trip outwith the kids
Writing about this episode is giving me flashbacks to the baby rucksack days – when you need three fully packed bags, just to walk to the shop. It’s difficult when you have a small baby and need a lot of supplies.
Getting out of the house is particularly challenging because we have an easily distracted child. I sometimes let out a huge sigh of relief when she is strapped in the car seat and I can just breathe.
The episode also shows us the teamwork between Chilli and Bandit. And not saying, “I told you so” – even when you really want to.
I am so excited about Bluey lately, I just had to get all my thoughts out.
What is your favourite episode? And how do you feel about the most recent episodes? Let me know in the comments.
8. Season 2 – Episode 9: Bingo
Parenting takeaway: siblings are vastly different in personality traits
As parents to a soon-to-be five-year-old, we love the episodes that focus on Bingo. This one doesn’t disappoint. It explores Bingo learning to play alone – a favourite moment of the episode – “The fridge doesn’t like me.” What a cutie!
9. Season 2 – Episode 17: Fancy Restaurant
Parenting takeaway: Romance doesn’t always mean big gestures
I love this episode. Showing us all that romance doesn’t have to mean fancy restaurants. Sometimes, it’s just the little things parents do for each other that matter. Like eating the horrible plate of food the kids made. Hilarious and heartwarming.
10. Season 1 – Episode 28 – Grannies
Parenting takeaway: Give your children the option and let them choose the right path
In this episode, the girls teach Grandma to floss. But the parenting lesson is more about whether you prefer to be right or have fun. And what a great lesson to teach young kids.
It also reminds me of my younger days, at my Grandma’s house – doing special things together – which will be ingrained in our memories forever.
11. Season 3 – Episode 24: Faceytalk
Parenting takeaway: Life isn’t always perfect but the fun continues anyway
This is the most played episode in our house. We love it and laugh throughout. We also have a child very similar to Muffin, but I think all children have muffin moments, don’t they?
The moment which strikes me is Muffin’s parents arguing in the background on Faceytalk. Bandit carefully explains the girls should mute the volume until they have finished speaking. Moments like this make me feel validated. We all argue, especially as parents – and I love that Bluey shows us the reality of this.
Life can be difficult, as a parent to young kids. When you’re working hard to give them a great life. You’re tired every day and the little ones push your buttons. My blog is all about acknowledging the reality of parenting and just how difficult it can be.
Parenting takeaway: Despite worries, the kids will be okay making friends at school
Absolute hats off to Bluey for exploring the topic of ADHD, with this lovable character. It’s a topic which impacts our family and therefore, one of our favourite episodes.
It’s also a great look at the way children might view these difficulties – with remembering things. In our family, we explain to the little one that other people can have different brains and they sometimes do things a bit differently. We are slowly starting to broach the subject in an age-appropriate way. And this episode helps us do that.
13. Season 2 – Episode 41 – Bin Night
Parenting takeaway: Spend time talking to your kids about their dayworks wonders
This episode follows Bandit and the kids carrying out a mundane task. Obviously to the girls, this is very exciting. And it prompts a conversation about something which is troubling Bingo. All is well in the end though. Talking it through with a parent helps Bingo.
14. Season 2 – Episode 1 – Dance mode
Parenting takeaway: Don’t let the fear of looking foolish, stop you from having fun
This is one of our top three episodes. I mean, the song is enough to make you love it. But watching the embarrassment of the parents. Which then turns into total fun – never gets old.
Don’t be afraid to dance like nobody is watching. Have fun with your kids and try not to care what other people think.
15. Season 2 – Episode 6 – Stumpfest
Parenting takeaway: Parents need their outlet and playtime
It’s healthy for parents to do something which doesn’t revolve around kids. It’s also healthy for the kids to realise this and not always be with their parents. We’ve always wanted a range of social settings for our little one – nursery, staying at the grandparent’s every weekend and generally doing her own thing – when it’s appropriate. I think it’s good for young children.
The most heartwarming thing about this episode is Chilli explaining to Bluey that the dads are playing. Bluey then goes on to help them play their game.
16. Season 3 – Episode 43 – Dragon
Parenting takeaway:Sometimes difficult topics can be explored whilst spending time together
There is a reason parents and therapists use drawing as a technique to speak to children. In this episode we see Chilli tell a heartwarming story about her Mum, to encourage Bluey to continue drawing. It also touches on the topic of Chilli’s Mum no longer being around.
The family encourage Bluey to persist with a task and also explain a very difficult topic to the girls. It’s also emotional when Chilli fondly remembers her mum.
17. Season 3 – Episode 26 – Fairytale
Parenting takeaway: Sometimes kids are mean to each other and deserve consequences
This episode is in my top five – because of the nostalgia. How many parents have told their kids stories about “back in the day”? This story sees Bandit admitting he was pretty horrible to his Brother and there should be consequences.
The most emotional moment is when Bandit says he met Chilli at the caravan park when they were kids. Lovely, wholesome, family moment.
18. Season 1 – Episode 43 – Camping
Parenting takeaway: People come in and out of our lives, probably for good reason. And teaching kids this is important
On the subject of camping, we love this episode. Despite a language barrier, the kids (Bluey & Jean Luc) have fun together and feel like they made friends. Only to miss each other when one of them leaves the campsite. It is lovely to see a teenage Bluey reunited with Jean Luc though. And very emotional.
19. Season 3 – Episode 1 – Bedroom
Parenting takeaway: Sometimes plans have to be changed, according to what the kids want and need
As a parent, you quickly learn to go with the flow. If emotions bubble up, or a little one needs comfort, it’s time to change something. immediately, if possible!
But this episode also explores encouraging your kids to give it a try. Another great lesson for kids to learn.
20. Season 3 – Episode 31 – Onesies
Parenting takeaway: Sometimes people have to deal with their own emotions and explaining this to the kids can be a good thing
There will always be difficult subjects to tackle in life and Bluey always gets this right! Brandy comes to visit, and after some fun with onesies and the older sisters (Chilli & Brandy) reenacting a dance they did when they were younger, Chilli can explain to Bluey why Brandy is sad. And that we don’t always get what we want in life. Even if it’s something we desire.
Summary of Relatable Bluey Parenting Moments
I hope you enjoyed reading this post. I enjoyed writing it – I am so excited about Bluey lately, I just had to get all my thoughts out.
What is your favourite episode? And how do you feel about the most recent episodes?
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