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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?
It is clear our little one is musical. She loves singing and dancing and often falls asleep when we have loud music playing. Therefore, we need to eventually take her to a music festival. She would absolutely love it. Are you also looking for Friendly Festivals?
It got me thinking about what is on offer. Here is my rundown of family-friendly and affordable festivals for you to attend as a family.
Either look to attend this year or keep them in mind for next year!
PLEASE NOTE – I have no affiliation with any of these organisers. The list is from my own research about places we would visit as a family
This is based in York on 12th & 13th August and looks to have everything you could want as a family. There is even camping available to get the full festival experience. Check out ticket prices here
This looks like a great range of activities, including comedy and literary activities. However, you can only book weekend tickets and it is quite pricey. Check out ticket options here.
We’ve visited Kidzplay Shipley before. And I first started taking my little one when she was a baby. Although it was daunting back then, as a new mum. They do have a designated space for little ones. And baby walkers to entertain the little ones. Or baby brothers and sisters, if you’re attending as a family. What I love about this is that there is also enough space to not feel like you’re getting in anybody’s way. This is essential when you visit a place to let your little ones run wild and free.
PLEASE NOTE – The session was offered free of charge, in exchange for my honest review
I can’t wait to have some time to myself. Coupled with making lasting memories with my little bundle of joy. Mummy life is definitely made better by getting out and doing fun activities. And of course, drinking a nice cup of tea – in peace.
Finally getting some Mummy time to myself
Babies need a lot of looking after, so it’s only within the last year that I can attend and actually have a coffee and eat my dinner. This time for myself to sit down and relax is valuable. And often something I simply don’t get for days on end.
The class we tried
Prior to the class, we were sent information via email to let us know what type of clothing to wear and the schedule for the two hours. As a pretty organised person, it’s great to be aware of these details before we set off.
The email confirmed the little ones would be allowed 15 minutes upon arrival to play in the soft play. And it was pretty quiet upon arrival. The kids loved running around for this part of the session. And I had time to order my food and cup of tea.
Introduction from the staff
One of the session staff introduced herself at our table and confirmed I could either stay or leave my toddler in the room. And they could make as much mess as they want. As a busy mum, someone giving you permission to relax is worth so much! Permission for my toddler to make as much mess as she wants, is also exciting got her. She kept asking whether she was allowed to make a mess and she was so happy when I said yes.
Entering the room
When we entered the room, which was at the side of the soft play. The class was set up for messy play with water. And it was impressive. I stayed for the first part and felt comfortable leaving her in the capable hands of the class leaders. Whilst I ate my sandwich and drank my cup of tea.
Returning to the class was so much fun. We ditched the shoes and socks for a really messy playtime. Standing in the water, splashing around and creating bubbles. Now my little one is a bit older, these memories are so valuable and I love spending time with her. She calls me her best friend. And I know these days don’t last forever. We make the most of every moment we have together as a family.
Any downsides
This is not a complaint, because we had such a wonderful time and I don’t mind paying for extras whenever we visit a place like this. We see it as a family day out where we spend a little bit of money to have a good time. For those unable to do this (we were unable to afford it for several years, until only recently) it’s fine to not buy food or drink – there is no pressure to do so.
It would have been good to have a kid’s drink included with the free meal they get. Even if a small additional cost is added to the package. It would just be something I didn’t have to think about asking for.
Will we be returning
We’ve already been offered a discount code and we will be returning. I can’t wait to have some time to myself. Coupled with making lasting memories with my little bundle of joy. Mummy life is definitely made better by getting out and doing fun activities. And of course, drinking a nice cup of tea – in peace.
Practical information
The centre has free parking, and accessible toilets, which are always lovely and clean. And a selection of food options on the menu…
Session times
Sessions run Monday – Friday with start times at 10am, 1pm & 3:30pm
Classes available
The centre has Den Play sessions and Discovery Play sessions available.
This time we tried the Discovery Play Sessions and we will be selecting the Den Play next time we visit.
Image courtesy of Kidzplay Shipley
Play, Class, Eat – Discovery Play
Enjoy a play around the extensive frame, experience one of the highly-rated children’s Authentic Play Classes and get your kids meal included! With a choice from 4 children’s favourites!
All this for £9.50!
Sessions are designed to provide “Authentic” play experiences for your little ones that you won’t find anywhere else!
DISCOUNT CODE
Use code PCEJUNE50 to get your session for just £4.75
Upcoming themes:
Week 1 (5/6): Splish Splash Splosh
Week 2 (12/6): Gloopy Gloop
Week 3 (19/6): Muddy Madness
Week 4 (26/6): Perfect Perfumes
Week 5 (3/7): Mini Picasso’s
Week 6 (10/7): Sandy Shores
Play, Class, Eat – Den Play
Enjoy a play around the extensive frame, experience one of the highly-rated children’s Authentic Play Classes and get your kids meal included! With a choice from 4 children’s favourites!
All this for £9.50!
Sessions are designed to provide “Authentic” play experiences for your little ones that you won’t find anywhere else!
Upcoming themes:
Week 1 (5/6): Camp out
Week 2 (12/6): Dino Hideout
Week 3 (19/6): A Fairy Fort
Week 4 (26/6): Kings & Queens
Week 5 (3/7): Cosmic Spaces
Week 6 (10/7): Pajama Party
How to book
You can book here – for the play.class.eat sessions, or just play.
Other play centres
Kidzplay also has other centres, in Harrogate and Leeds.
The soft play is the most impressive one we have in our area. With two big tube slides. A race track. A football pitch and soft play areas are divided by age, it’s great.
In the lead-up to the weekend, I always seem to be on my phone researching the best places to take my little one. She is a recent school starter, full of energy and needs entertaining. Don’t even get me started on school holiday entertainment plans.
It’s that time of year, when I am looking forward to warmer weather and planning lots of family days out, to enjoy throughout the year. If you are doing the same, be sure to check out this great list of attractions. It’s always great to have something to look forward to!
The purpose of my new page FAMILY DAYS OUT – is to help other families find great attractions to visit -without researching them. Want to be featured? Feel free to contact me and check out more details here.
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.
Images are taken from the affiliated websites
Let’s dive into my list of the Merlin Attractions To Visit With The Kids
Merlin Passes
You can book more than one adventure and save money! With annual passes starting from £99 per person, for over 200 Days of Entry (please do view the small print on the passes to ensure this fits with your circumstances).
Unlock access to the UK’s BIGGEST and best attractions for the smallest price
When visiting an attraction or theme park, it’s always great to stay overnight so you have more access to the array of things to do. Let’s have a look at Merlin Entertainments and their great offers – if you are considering visiting the theme parks anyway.
Short Breaks Offer – 2nd Day Free –
Add your 2nd Day in the Theme Park for Free when you book a Short Break
With an array of thrilling rides, a beach, a playground and rides for little kids – you will be guaranteed a fun-packed day out. Your short break booking includes two full days of theme park thrills!
Here are some tips if you’re visiting the park –
1. Check your height before you start the day, to ensure you know which rides you can go on.
2. Bring zip-lock sandwich bags or waterproof bags for your electronics – whilst on water rides.
3. Bring spare clothes in case you get a bit too carried away on the water rides.
4. Change into flip-flops when riding water rides – no need to worry about ruining your trainers!
6. Bring lots of water! You never know how long the queues will be.
7. Want to beat the queues? Head over to Nemesis Inferno & SAW first thing and work your way around the park from there. There are fewer queues at the back of the park at the start of the day and you’ll find yourself working against the crowds all day!
Days out
Shall we look at some of the other Merlin Attractions in more detail?
Nemesis Reborn Has Arrived!Opening Saturday 16th March 2024
Nemesis Reborn invites the bravest of thrill-seekers to tackle dominating drops and intense inversions aboard the ride. The Phalanx have lost all strength and now it’s your turn to encounter this terrifying creature.
Located in Birmingham, at the NEC. There is an array of activities for your adventurous kids. Including – indoor climbing walls, archery range, iFLY wind tunnel and escape rooms.
Join Freddo and a whole host of Cadbury characters as they whisk you away on an adventurous journey in the 4D Chocolate Adventure cinema experience, complete with motion seats!
Discover the origins of the cocoa bean and jump on the magical Cadabra ride. Seen the adverts? You will also get to meet the infamous Cadbury drumming gorilla.
Scarborough SEA LIFE Sanctuary is a unique indoor and outdoor attraction ideal for a family day out.
Penguin Island is a specialist enclosure, which was designed to let guests get closer to the animals. You can also meet seal pup patients and stop by the specialist Seal Hospital.
The perfect experience for all children under 10 years old.
Burst through the pages of your favourite stories into a magical place of imagination, creativity, discovery and play. Adapted from some of the UK’s most loved children’s stories by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler, with 6 captivating and immersive zones, this 2-hour play experience is enjoyable for a family day out.
See, hear, smell and feel York’s stories come to life before your eyes as frighteningly funny characters transport you through time.
Surprises await you at The Dungeon… Fear the Vikings as they invade and conquer York. Discover Guy Fawkes’ Gunpowder Plot and what happened that November night. Step inside the carriage to the York Knavesmire, where one of the infamous highwaymen Dick Turpin has returned.
Image courtesy of Warwick Castle WebsiteImage courtesy of Visit Warwick website
I remember a wonderful family trip we had to Warwick Castle, over two days. The castle itself is amazing. I remember the princess castle and I want my little one to experience it. We also managed to catch the knights’ battle, which was amazing to see.
What’s on in February?
Watch the spectacular Birds of Prey display at 12 pm and 2:30 pm each day.
Join an expert team of Historians for a free guided tour of Warwick’s past.
Journey through the exquisite Great Hall, State Rooms, and Royal Weekend Party.
Slide into the world’s first Zog Playland.
Get lost in time in the Horrible Histories Maze.
Indulge in a tasty afternoon tea at the Conservatory Tea House.
Visit the Princess Tower for an immersive storytelling experience, perfect for children aged 3 to 8. Get your free-timed ticket (weekends only).
CLICK the links above, to stay up to date with the latest events.
Final Thoughts
I hope you enjoyed the rundown of these amazing attractions.
Have you visited any? Which one is your favourite?
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