family

Family days out

Trying Out The New Play:Class:Eat Sessions At Kidzplay Shipley

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Our experience with Kidzplay previously

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.

Kidzplay Shipley

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

Kidzplay Shipley

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. 

Kidzplay Shipley

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…

menu
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.

Kidzplay Shipley
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.

Kidzplay Play Centres

Playframe

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. 

Parties

The centre also offers parties. 

Who are these classes for 

There was a range of ages in the class today. 

Final thoughts

Do you love soft play? or have you attended classes like this before?

I would love to hear from you in the comments below.

Lifestyle

How To Handle Separation With As Little Pain As Possible

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While no one expects to go through a divorce when marrying their partner, it unfortunately does happen. At the end of the day, things can change and your relationship may also deteriorate over time, sometimes through no fault of either party.

Whatever the reason for the separation, there are tips to help ensure the separation is handled with as little pain as possible. Here are some helpful tips to handle your separation, should you be going through one right now.

How To Handle Separation
Image Source

Acknowledge you’ll have different feelings about the separation

It’s important to remember that there are two people involved in the separation and when it comes to handling that separation, it’s important to remember that you will both handle it differently.

Depending on the reasoning for the separation, you may find that you or your partner are feeling things differently from the other and that’s okay. It’s beneficial to acknowledge and process these feelings individually and to remember that everyone will react differently to a separation.

How To Handle Separation

Provide yourself with time to grieve the separation

It’s highly important to find the time to grieve for the separation. After all, a separation is often a form of loss that can be hard to process. It’s useful to give yourself the time to grieve the separation and to mourn all the months or years you’ve experienced with your significant other. Not to mention all of the married years you might have had or will no longer have.

Grief is a real part of separation and it’s something to acknowledge and go through. 

Don’t go through it alone

When it comes to a divorce, it’s important that you’ve got yourself a support network. These individuals are going to help guide you through the process and offer that shoulder to lean on or cry on, should you need it.

Don’t go through it alone and when you feel like you need the help, ask for it. It’s of course, hard to speak to anyone but your ex-partner about the situation and how you’re feeling. However, it’s something that you want to give yourself plenty of support with. While a divorce lawyer is good to have, they’re not going to be the person you call late a night for a chit-chat.

Try to communicate calmly with your ex-partner

Communicating with your ex-partner will often be needed, especially if children are involved. With that being said, try to communicate calmly with your ex-partner. Avoid speaking if things have gotten heated recently or you’ve come to a point where every conversation is resulting in an argument.

Give the time needed to cool down or for your ex-partner to cool down before attempting to talk again.

Take care of yourself throughout the process

Finally, take the time to look after yourself. A divorce or separation of any kind can be tough on your mental and physical well-being. Be kind to yourself and take the time to take care of yourself throughout the ordeal that is playing out.

A divorce or separation is never a happy process, so make sure you’re looking after yourself and using these tips for your benefit.

Parenting tips, Toddlers

Create the Perfect Garden for Your Child

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If you are a parent, there’s a good chance you have dreams of creating the perfect garden for your child. A place where they can explore, learn, and have fun! It can be a lot of work to create such a space, but it’s definitely worth it. This post will walk you through the process of creating the perfect garden for your child. 

Garden for Your Child
Via Pexels

Make sure your garden is safe:  

This is probably the most important step in creating a perfect garden for your child. You’ll want to make sure there are no poisonous plants such as rhododendrons or azaleas. Old trees can also be a safety hazard. If they are close to your house, they could fall and damage your property or hurt someone. Dead trees should be removed by a tree removal company, and live trees should be regularly checked for signs of disease or instability.

You’ll also want to fence off the garden to keep out any potential predators, such as dogs or coyotes. If you live in an area with deer, you’ll need to take extra precautions to keep them out as well.

Other potential hazards may include water features such as ponds or fountains. These can be dangerous for small children if they fall in. Make sure any water features are properly fenced off or covered.

Choose plants that are interesting and fun: 

Your child is going to be spending a lot of time in the garden, so you’ll want to choose plants that are interesting and fun for them. Look for plant varieties with bright colours, interesting textures, and fun shapes. The plants you choose should also be easy to care for. You don’t want to spend all your time in the garden just taking care of the plants! 

You can consider some of these plants for your garden: 

  • Sunflowers
  • Zinnias
  • Coneflowers
  • Marigolds
  • Cosmos

You can also include some edible plants, such as strawberries or tomatoes. After all,  what’s more fun than eating something you’ve grown yourself?

Garden for Your Child

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Add some playful elements: 

In addition to plants, you’ll also want to add some playful elements to the garden. This could include a sandbox, a swingset, or a climbing structure. You can also add some toys or games such as balls or badminton.

Create a comfortable seating area: 

Your child is going to need a place to rest and relax in the garden. This could be a bench, a picnic table, or just some chairs. You’ll want to make sure the seating area is in a shady spot, so it’s comfortable on hot days.

Add some lighting: 

If you want your child to be able to use the garden at night, you’ll need to add some lighting. Solar lights are a great option because they’re environmentally friendly and cost-effective. You can also use lanterns or string lights.

Creating the perfect garden for your child is a process, but it’s definitely worth it. With a little planning and effort, you can create a space your child will love. And who knows, maybe they’ll even fall in love with gardening too!

Garden for Your Child
Book Corner, Christmas, Gift Guides, Gifting, Toddlers, wellness

Look No Further Than Elfland UK for Your Christmas Eve Box

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I can’t be alone in wanting to get the perfect Christmas Eve Box for my toddler. How many other parents out there end up with the same, generic gifts from discount stores?

These treats are some of the highest quality, cute gifts I’ve seen and I just had to share them with you today!

Christmas Eve Box
Elfland Range

Quick note: AFF-GIFTED Some of the links contained on this page are affiliate links. If you go through an affiliate link to make a purchase, I will earn a commission. I only recommend products I use myself and think would be helpful for other people.

DISCOUNT CODE – SAMXMAS – FOR A WHOPPING 20% OFF

DONT FORGET – In some of the boxes, there is the chance to find magical tickets to win wellness products or the ultimate prize – a family trip to Lapland.

Let’s dive into the list of items to make a magical Christmas Eve Box

Elfland Sleepy Bedtime Giftset

Christmas Eve Box
Elfland Sleepy Bedtime Giftset

What’s included in the box?

1 x Box of 5 Sachets of Elf Eyes Self-Heating Eye Mask (worth £16.50)
1 x Magic Wish Wand (worth £5.95) 
1 x The Lost Wish Book (worth £9.95)
1 x Happiness Spells and Wish Wand Instructions
1 x Sleepy Elf Meditation (worth £3.95)
1 x Lost Wish Colouring Page

What other goodies are on offer, for my Christmas Eve Box?

‘Limited Edition’ Christmas Eve Treat Box

Christmas Eve Box
Limited Edition Christmas Eve Treat Box

WHAT’S INCLUDED:

1 x Box of 5 Sachets of Elf Eyes Self-Heating Eye Masks (worth £16.50)
1 x Magic Wish Wand (worth £5.95)
1 x The Lost Wish Book (worth £9.95)
1 x Sleepy Elf Pillow Spray (worth £8.50)
1 x Sleepy Elf Pulse Point Oil (worth £8.50)
1 x Lost Wish Colouring Page
1 x Sleepy Elf Meditation (worth £3.95)
1 x Happiness Spells and Wish Wand Instructions 
2 x Camellias Tea House Very Berry Tea (worth £0.88)

Elfland Lost Wish Book & Character Explanations

This book is perfect for your Christmas Eve Box. I have let my little one start reading it now, in the build-up to Christmas.

Christmas Eve Box
Elfland Range

Discover The Lost Wish by Clare Anderson and Emily Jacobs, illustrated by Emma Kurran, where imagination is limitless, and pure adventure awaits. It’s a tale guaranteed to excite and inspire young readers everywhere. 

Set off on a remarkable journey through a mystical land! Join Siena, a bright and brave little girl, who one stormy night, steps through a magical archway and into Elfland; a thrilling world of friendly elves, dangerous dragons, flying pixies and talking rats! Discover what adventure awaits her.

Christmas Eve Box
The Lost Wish

Buddy Soft Toy from The Lost Wish

I will be purchasing this today, as an addition to my little one’s Christmas Eve Box. And to tie in with the theme of the book.

Christmas Eve Box
Buddy Soft Toy

Meet Buddy, Siena’s faithful and loyal companion from The Lost Wish, now available as a cute and cuddly plush toy.

This super soft and squishy plush toy is made for hugs and playtimes. Take Buddy everywhere with you as you adventure together day and night. 

Where you go, Buddy goes! Just like in the book, The Lost Wish, let Buddy be your most loyal friend and protector, someone who you can enjoy life’s adventures with. Just squeeze him tight, and Buddy will always be by your side, on hand to protect you no matter what.

The Lost Wish Gift Box

Christmas Eve Box
The Lost Wish Gift Box

WHAT’S INCLUDED:

2 x Elf Eyes Self-Heating Eye Masks (worth £7.90)
1 x The Lost Wish Children’s Book (worth £9.95)
1 x Magic Wish Wand (worth £5.95)
1 x Sleepy Elf Relaxing Pillow Spray (worth £8.50)
1 x Lost Wish Colouring Page
1 x Sleepy Elf Meditation (worth £3.95)
1 x Happiness Spells and Wish Wand Instructions
2 x Camellias Tea House Very Berry Tea (worth £0.88)

In every box, there is the chance to find magical tickets to win wellness products or the ultimate prize – a family trip to Lapland.

Elfland Wish Wand

I am so in love with this product because it’s really special and a keepsake. These items can be used for every Christmas from now on and I can’t wait for my little one to open this item in her Christmas Eve Box.

Christmas Eve Box
Elfland Wish Wand

Suitable for age 5+ the Elfland Wish Wand is the perfect gift for all wannabe wizards and little elves, pixies, fairies, or just anyone who believes in the power of the imagination to bring dreams and magic to life.

Elfland Elf Eye Masks Box

Christmas Eve Box
Self-Heating Eye Masks Box

Elf Eyes have been created for children but are suitable for the whole family. Each mask is unscented. 

Elf Eyes Self-Heating Eye Masks are Especially Good For: 

  • Creating a magical experience for children as the eye masks heat up when placed over the eyes  
  • Helping to calm and relax overactive minds when excitement is high 
  • Christmas Eve boxes and stocking fillers 
  • Helping the whole family relax and sleep the night before Santa comes! 

How to use your Sensory Retreats Elf Eyes Self-Heating Eye Mask 

  • Find a quiet cosy place to rest and recline 
  • Open the pouch and unfold your Elf Eyes Eye Mask 
  • Gently place the mask over your eyes and fit the loops comfortably around your ears 
  • Within a couple of minutes, you’ll begin to feel a gentle sensation as the Elf Eyes warms up 
  • Simply allow yourself to drift off as you enjoy approximately 25 minutes of deeply relaxing and soothing warmth 
  • If using on children (aged 5+), you may need to secure it with an extra knot to tighten the loops – adult supervision is advised while children wear the mask 

Other wellness products for your little ones, to add to your Christmas Eve Box

There are so many other products in the Elfland range. Including Sleepy Elf Relaxing Pulse Point Oil – 10ml and Sleepy Elf Relaxing Pillow Spray – 30ml

You can check out the whole range here.

Christmas Eve Box

Recent posts on the blog

Feel free to check out some of my recent posts on the blog.

Family, Parenting tips, Relationships

3 Ways To Help Our Children Cope With Moving Out Of Parents’ House

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Moving Out Of Parents' House
Source – CC0 Licence

A major moment in our lives like a divorce can cause massive upheaval for everyone. When we are moving home, it’s safe to say that it can be a very stressful process. When you’re moving with family members, it’s important to remember that this can have an impact on your children as well. What do you need to do so everybody can have a smooth move? To lessen the impact when children move out of their parents’ house.

Ask for Help

As well as finding a reliable removalist that can cater to your needs you’ve got to think about the entire moving process. The removalists will help you on moving day, but it’s your responsibility to tie up loose ends. If you are trying to help your children come to terms with having to move at the same time, this can be a very difficult and overwhelming process for you. But you may want to get your children involved as this can help them and you. For example, if you ask them to help pack by putting some of their toys in a box or help you with the journey planning, it’s going to help demystify the process for them but it also gives you a little bit of a helping hand.

Moving Out Of Parents' House

Keep a Positive Frame of Mind (for You and the Kids)

You may feel stressed throughout the entire process, this means that the negativity can easily rub off on your children. If your children are upset and are trying to guilt you into not packing so there’s an off chance you may stay, the fact is that you’ve got to keep that positive frame of mind even, if that’s not how you feel right now. Comparing your new home with your old one is not going to help, and you have to remember that your children will push your buttons, so don’t pander to them.

Maintain your composure during the process of moving out of the parent’s house.

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Keep the Family Rituals Intact

To keep the moving process as swift and effective as possible, the old family routines will make a big difference. If you have younger children, you need to make sure that they stick to the same bedtime routines, meal times, and schedules, because this will feel less like a major shock to the system. Everybody is going to feel a sense of restlessness when they go to a new place, so the best thing you can do is to try and mirror your old life as closely as possible. You can set up their rooms the same as in your old home, which can help for younger children if you anticipate any changes in their sleeping patterns which, for most children, is par for the course. 

Of course, you must remember that you are going through a lot! Trying to keep your children happy throughout the moving process can be very tiring. Children will get frustrated because of the changes in their lives, but you also need to look after yourself and remember that if you are looking for a smooth move, you’ve got to make sure your mindset is in the right place as well.

Out Of Parents' House
Family, Lifestyle

4 Things to Consider When Buying Your First Family Home

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It’s finally happened- you’re ready to take the plunge and buy your first family home. This is a huge decision, one that should not be taken lightly. There are many things to consider when buying a home, especially if it’s your first time. In this blog post, we will go over four of the most important factors to think about when making such a purchase. So sit back, relax, and get ready to learn everything you need to know about buying your first family home!

family home
Photo by Tierra Mallorca on Unsplash

Location, Location, Location

The old real estate adage still rings true today- where your home is located is important. You want to make sure you’re in a safe neighbourhood that you feel comfortable with. You also want to think about things like the commute to work, schools in the area, and proximity to family and friends. All of these factors play a role in choosing the perfect location for your new home. Location is key when purchasing any property but especially your first family home. You want to be close to good schools if you have children or are planning on starting a family. It’s also important to be close to public transportation if you don’t have a car or prefer not to drive. And finally, you want to be in a neighbourhood that feels safe and comfortable for you and your family.

Size Matters

Another important factor to consider when buying your first family home is size. How big of a house do you need? Do you want a lot of bedrooms and bathrooms? Or are you looking for something more modest? It’s important to think about the size of your family now and in the future when making this decision. You don’t want to end up with a house that’s too small or too large for your needs. Size is an important consideration when purchasing any property but especially your first-family home. If you have children or are planning on starting a family, you’ll want enough bedrooms and bathrooms for everyone. On the other hand, if your kids are grown and gone, you may be looking for something smaller and more modest. It’s important to think about the size of your family now and in the future when making this decision, so you end up with a house that’s just right. You can look at a few display homes to get a feel for what size will suit you best.

family home

Your Budget

Of course, one of the most important things to consider when buying your first family home is your budget. How much can you afford to spend on a new home? You’ll need to take into account your current income, debts, and other financial obligations when making this decision. It’s also important to remember that there are other costs associated with owning a home, such as property taxes, insurance, and repairs. Make sure you factor all of these things into your budget before making an offer on a new home.

Maintenance and Upkeep

Another thing to keep in mind when buying your first family home is the maintenance and upkeep that will be required. Owning a home is a lot of work! You’ll need to mow the lawn and make repairs when things break. If you’re not prepared for this, it can be a big shock. Make sure you are ready and willing to take on the responsibilities of owning a home before making an offer.

family home
Photo by Theme Photos on Unsplash

These are just a few of the things to consider when buying your first family home. It’s a big decision, but it can also be a lot of fun. Just make sure you do your research and take your time before making an offer on a new property. With these tips in mind, you’re sure to find the perfect home for your family.

family home
Family, Parenting tips

Family Challenges Every Parent Needs To Prepare For

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prepare
Image Credit

Almost every loving parent wants to raise a happy family and reap the benefits of happy family life. One way to achieve this is to know and prepare yourself for the challenges of raising a family. Being a parent comes with numerous challenges, from raising kids to dealing with health issues and financial constraints. Parenting today also offers newer challenges, especially as society continues to change and newer demands, requirements, and new parenting styles emerge. If you’re preparing to be a parent soon, here are some challenges you can expect to face. 

Family breakdowns, relationship problems, and single-parenting

It’s probably safe to assume that no well-meaning person builds a family, hoping it will all fall apart soon, but it happens. Family breakdowns and separations are becoming even more common than you think. Therefore, it’s important to know what to do when you find yourself facing the possibilities of divorce, single-parenting, or child custody issues. In every case, your first and best attempt should be to find solutions to what’s threatening your marriage. However, you can always consult experienced solicitors in family law to assist you if these family issues arise. 

prepare

Combining work with parenting

Many households deal with major challenges in their career as they struggle to juggle the demanding responsibilities of work and parenting. While your prime objective for working may be to keep your family clothed, sheltered, and fed, you don’t want to devote all your attention to work. Children, especially, need the constant presence of their parents to offer them the emotional support they need through various phases of their lives. You should learn how best to balance work requirements and family life so that one does not adversely affect the other. 

Dealing with expectations

Every parent had some expectations of what their family lives would look like. You want your children to do well in good schools, a stable financial life, a nice family car, and frequent family vacations. But family life does not always turn out the way you dreamed of or expected. Expectations are great, but you need to make sure that they are realistic and attainable. 

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    Lack of emotional bonding

    A lack of emotional connection is another thing many parents struggle with concerning their families. Several things can lead to this, including a lack of time, job, and stress, to mention a few. Failing to spend time with your family or connect with them emotionally has several consequences, especially for your children. For example, children may refrain from sharing their troubles with their parents and can easily go astray as a result. 

    Financial issues and quality of life 

    Financial issues are some of the main challenges many families face, especially when children come into the picture. Debt and money issues have resulted in many families falling apart. With the current standard of living going up worldwide, many families are beginning to face a lot more financial pressure than they used to. This has affected the quality of life of many families. 

    prepare
    Family

    How To Care For Elderly Parents On A Busy Schedule

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    elderly parents
    Image Credit

    One minute you are a child, and the next, you are a grown adult with many responsibilities weighing on your shoulders! One of the challenging tasks you might face as an adult is learning to care for ageing parents while trying to have a successful career and build your own family. With a staggering 79% of adults feeling stressed at least once a month, how are you possibly going to find the perfect balance? Striking a balance might seem like a distant dream to you and many others. However, these tips will help you find a routine that works for you and your family. 

    Set your priorities and develop a plan

    It’s easy to get overwhelmed when juggling your work with caring for your family and elderly parents. However, before you begin to panic, it’s always better to create an action plan. There are many things you must consider. Do your parents have regular doctor’s appointments? What errands do you need to run for your home and theirs? You can write down all these tasks and try to visualise everything to help you organise better. 

    Once you’ve created a schedule, it will be easier to know what you have to prepare for. Thanks to modern technology, you can even set reminders to all parties involved to keep them abreast with plans and schedules. If you have other siblings or relatives to help, you can all sync your calendars to know who is responsible for what task and when. 

    elderly parents

    Speak to your employer

    It can be hard finding the perfect balance between being a dedicated worker and a dedicated child. Given how busy work environments can get, it does affect how often you get to connect with your elderly parents. If you’re in such a situation, a good way to solve it is by talking openly with your employer to find a more manageable solution. 

    Ask your employer if it’s possible to adjust your working hours or if remote working options are available to give you more flexibility. Sometimes, having these conversations can be nerve-wracking. A good way to prepare is by listing out your primary duties and how you intend to make these adjustments work for you and your employer. 

    Hire a caregiver

    It would be better to hire a domiciliary caregiver in certain instances where you can’t care for your elderly parents. You should consider this option because instead of placing your parents in a home, you can have them cared for right in the comfort of their homes, giving them a sense of belonging. Depending on what services you require, a home caregiver can perform various tasks, including ensuring your parents take their medicines regularly and providing light housekeeping services. Apart from medical care, they also provide companionship to your elderly parents. 

    Your parents’ health and care matters, so you must research thoroughly to find the best home care possible if you are considering this option. A qualified caregiver must not only have a good reputation but should have also completed the mandatory training for domiciliary care to be qualified to care for your parents. 

    Make time for yourself

    It’s easy to lose yourself when trying to care for your parents while balancing work. However, you must set time aside for self-care. You can take care of yourself by exercising to release stress and eat well. Learn how to take breaks at work and home to clear your mind and relax. 

    If you feel the strain or are at risk of burning out, don’t be embarrassed to ask for help from your friends and family. They can watch your parents so you can take some time to unwind and get back into a routine. It also helps to talk to a professional or a trusted friend about how you are feeling. Sometimes, talking about what stresses you out is a good way to vent your frustrations. 

    Involve your kids

    If you have kids, you probably know how fond they are of their grandparents and vice versa. Your parents will love spending time with their grandchildren, and talking and bonding with them will improve their mental health and make them healthier. And if you have older kids, you can ask them to help you whenever you are in a tight bind. 

    Caring for your parents while juggling work and other important aspects of your life can take a toll on you. Fortunately, these tips will help you find the right balance to get things under control and help you give your parents the best life possible.

    Family, Parenting tips

    How to Prepare Your Teenager for a Residential Trip

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    Residential Trip
    Image Pexels CC0 License

    Heading off on a residential trip is the highlight of the year and an event that creates memories your teen will never forget. Now travel restrictions have eased, students have the opportunity once again to enjoy fantastic trips to destinations around the world. From skiing in The Alps to Madrid student trips for teens studying art, there are a whole host of destinations ideal for a college residential. Educational trips help to enrich students’ learning in many ways and provide the opportunity to experience different cultures and try new things. If your teen has a trip coming up and will be away from home for a few nights, you may be wondering how best to prepare them for this exciting experience. Here are some top tips to help prepare your teen for a residential trip:

    Ensure You Have All the Information

    While not every teenager is unorganised, you may not want to rely on them to relay crucial information about the trip. Finding out the details, such as arrival and departure dates and the equipment they need to take, is something you may want to research yourself so you know what is happening. As you will inevitably be the one paying for the trip, it is a good idea to find out the payment schedule as soon as possible so you can ensure you know when each amount is due and avoid any nasty surprises.

    Residential Trip

    Start Shopping Early

    If loads of kids will be taking part in the trip, it is a good idea to start shopping for equipment early. Shopping sooner rather than later is the best way to ensure you get bargains and avoid paying more than needed for the equipment. Buying equipment at the last minute will always mean you pay over the odds, so the sooner you get your equipment list and start shopping, the better.

    Speak About the Trip in a Positive Way

    Teenagers can sometimes be reluctant to try new things and leave their mates behind for a few days to go on a trip. Speaking about the trip positively and encouraging them to take part may help and make it easier for them to get the most from this fantastic experience. 

    Make Sure They Help With the Packing

    While it may seem easier to tackle the packing by yourself, getting your teenager involved is essential. Packing their stuff will ensure they know exactly what they are taking, making it less likely anything will be left behind when they come home. Although your teen may protest they are too old for name labels, ensuring that they have their names written on their belongings is vital to avoid anything getting lost.

    Avoid Rushing on the Day of the Trip

    Ensuring you leave for the meeting point in plenty of time is vital to avoid any panics on the day of the trip. So, getting your teen up early and leaving with enough time to spare to allow for any traffic along the way is essential.

    Gift Guides, Gifting

    Why Gift Guides Are An Amazing Resource When Online Shopping

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    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 you.

    Where do you look when you want to check out a product? Or find a quirky and unusual gift? Google of course. I don’t know about you, but I trust what I read online, mainly when it comes from bloggers I know and love.

    Do you want to know why? We do our research! In order to write a blog post, you need to know what you’re talking about. Check out the products for yourself and do a lot of scouring the internet. That makes what we write an amazing resource. We put the hard work in so you don’t have to.

    I mainly write about the products I buy as a customer. Some of them, like No7, I have bought for years and therefore know all about the range. It is about sharing this knowledge with others to make their online purchases easy.

    amazing resource

    Here are some of the gift guides I have written previously

    Feel free to check out any of these gift guides for inspiration and ideas. When shopping for a loved one, we often think about a gift that suits their preference and personality. I personally love a unique and quirky gift, with a special touch.

    10 UNIQUE MENKIND GIFTS FOR THE SPECIAL MAN IN YOUR LIFE

    4 AMAZING GIFT IDEAS FOR THE SPECIAL MAN IN YOUR LIFE

    THINK OUTSIDE THE BOX FOR YOUR VALENTINE’S DAY GIFT

    THE BEST DISCOUNTS & DEALS ON THE INTERNET FOR MOTHER’S DAY

    THE REASONS I PURCHASE WITH ONE TRUSTED BRAND FOR GIFTS & SELF-CARE PURCHASES

    THE ULTIMATE LIST OF SELF-CARE PACKAGE GIFT IDEAS FOR EVERY OCCASION

    5 LAST-MINUTE ONLINE CHRISTMAS GIFTS FOR THE ONES YOU LOVE

    CHRISTMAS GIFT GUIDE MY TRUSTED NO7 ESSENTIALS

    Some of the unique and quirky small brands I have worked with

    I love supporting small businesses and discovering products people may not know about. Especially hand-crafted products. The kind you would find at a small craft market, or the little gift shops on holiday. When a purchase resonates with me, or I feel like I would gift it to someone, I feel obliged to share my knowledge with other people.

    A UNIQUE AND QUIRKY GIFT FROM DO US A DITTY

    CHECK OUT THIS FABULOUS SELF-CARE GIFT BY COTTON & GREY

    YOU MUST CHECK OUT THIS SELF-HEATING EYE MASK FOR RELAXATION

    BREATHE BRACELETS – 10 BREATHS BRACELET

    CHRISTMAS-THEMED PERSONALISED MINI PROSECCO

    What’s next on the blog?

    I have two exciting gift guides coming up on Thursday 28 July 2022 and I am also in the process of organising one for August 2022. I genuinely love working with these brands and putting the information together.

    You will also get to see more video content. keep an eye on Instagram and TikTok for details.

    If you’re struggling with gifting ideas

    We all have that one person who is really difficult to buy for, don’t we? In our family, it’s my dad.

    If after reading these gift guides, you’re still looking for the perfect gift or something extra special, check out these ideas below:

    Why not give the amazing gift of a special book, journal, diary or any of the other amazing products from Waterstones?

    An English Heritage membership is the perfect gift for anyone who loves exploring. Maybe you have a loved one who enjoys reading about history? The great news is, that you can also take six children with you when purchasing an adult membership!

    CAN I INCLUDE MY CHILDREN IN MY MEMBERSHIP?

    English Heritage membership allows every Member to take up to six children under 18 within the family group into any of our properties at no extra charge.

    English Heritage website

    To accompany your special gift

    The gifting package isn’t complete without thinking about the other bits you need. Such as cards for special occasions and wrapping paper.

    Silly Sentiments

    amazing resource

    Silly Sentiments is an independent UK-based greeting and gifting company that specialises in personalisation. We’re located in the Midlands and control all elements of production, from design to print, passing savings to our customers.

    Some other quirky mentions before we wrap up (hehe)

    The Gift Of Cake

    Our service is about making it easy to deliver happiness direct to someone’s door

    The Gift of Cake is a family business based in the South West of England.

    We wanted to provide a service for ordering a cake online, including a personalised message and sending it by post as a lovely gift for the lucky recipient. But it’s not that easy to send a cake through the post. So we’ve invested time, money and hard work to provide a great solution.

    Celebrate Gifts

    Celebrate Gifts Ltd is the UK’s leading manufacturer of Chocolate Bouquets, Yankee Candle Bouquets, Alcohol Bouquets and Hat Box gifts.

    All Celebrate Gifts are handmade by our team of qualified florists and come with the option to add a complimentary gift message. Our gifts also arrived fully assembled so they can be taken straight out of the box and enjoyed!

    The Indytute

    Unusual Gift Experiences in London

    Inspiring lessons, workshops and experiences that make brilliant days out and unusual gifts for any occasion.

    From Hula to Harmonica classes, Gin Tours to Paddleboarding the Indytute offers unusual gift experiences in London. 

    Founded by Calypso Rose in 2013, the site has grown in popularity ever since and now offers over 160 unique and unusual experiences.

    Final thoughts

    I hope you enjoyed reading my gift guides and why I think they are important when shopping for special occasions. An amazing resource we can tap into to make our busy lives much easier!

    Have you purchased from any of these brands before? What’s your favourite? or do you have someone who is difficult to buy for?

    I would love to hear your thoughts in the comments below.

    amazing resource

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