No to a games console – XBox arguments
I don’t think I’m that strict a mum. I’m certainly less strict than my mum was when we were growing up. There are things that I expect of N like good behaviour when out and about, politeness, and being kind…
parenting
Why the school gate doesn’t have to be daunting
The school gate and cliques. For so many parents, predominantly mums, the school run and having to stand in the playground and wait for children to come out of school is one of the things that fills them with dread…
Why every child should have a camping experience
I can understand why many parents don’t want to go camping. Especially if you never did it as a child (or maybe if you did and it was disastrous). But I think every child should have at least 1 camping…
I want a blog – how to set up a kids blog
As a parenting or family lifestyle blogger there’s one big decision to make. Whether or how to feature your children, especially if both parents don’t have the same opinion. Plus further decisions once the child is old enough to decide…
Pocket money aims and charts
I’ve not yet started giving N pocket money. It’s been mentioned, but so far, it’s not really happened. But now he’s getting a bit more wise to the opportunity as there’s things he wants to buy and I’ve said no…
Getting involved with mini tennis – being tennis captain
I love watching N play sports or his school performances. It’s nice to be there when things go well, but also to support when not going so well. N’s only young and I want him to stay relaxed if he…
A first eye hospital visit
We all hope are children will stay healthy and fit, and most of us are lucky that that is the case. But when an injury or accident happens it always seems worse when it’s a child. I am usually a…
I have a tween boy
N might have been 8 year old for a month, but it was only last week that it clicked. I have a tween boy. When most people think of tweens they think of pre-teen girls, growing up far too early,…
Why you shouldn’t compare swimming levels and progress
Having children isn’t good for competitive people. Or perfectionists. Having children turns a lot of parents into competitive people, comparing their children against others. During the baby years you hear a lot of comparisons as the baby milestones are so…
Thoughts on parenting skills and following advice
I was 34 when I had N. Before then I didn’t think I wanted children, but then realised that I’d regret not trying and that there probably wouldn’t ever be a perfect time to know when you wanted children. Thankfully…
Tips for having a relaxed happy child
When I hear about the numbers of children nowadays, even primary age children, who’ve experienced anxiety, depression or other mental health problems, it makes you wonder what’s gone wrong with society. Why are so many people getting ill with so…