parenting advice

picture of A mum and tween son sitting together on a sofa looking at a smartphone screen

The New Social Media Ban for Under-16s: As a Mum of Tweens, I'm Not Sure It's That Simple

Last week my 11-year-old son casually dropped into conversation that he'd set up a WhatsApp Channel.

It wasn't a big announcement or some dramatic reveal. In fact, he seemed slightly confused by my reaction. Apparently some of his classmates had created their own channels, so he'd decided to have a go too.

My response was something along the lines of, "A WhatsApp what now...

picture of children playing outside in a garden using flowers, sticks and water to make imaginary potions, showing unstructured outdoor play and creativity

What Children Really Learn from Unstructured Outdoor Play

Unstructured outdoor play plays a crucial role in child development, helping children build confidence, creativity and problem-solving skills. As more families rethink education choices, many parents are recognising the importance of balancing academic learning with opportunities for free, child-led play.

Why Is Unstructured Outdoor Play Important for Children?

Unstructured outdoor...

picture of a child with scabies itching red and sore skin on her hand

Why scabies symptoms often appear at the end of January

Derbac M sales increase by over 1,500% every January as UK families face post-Christmas rise in skin complaints
  • Five years of sales data reveal repeated spikes after school holidays as households return to school and work

  • This pattern repeats after Easter, summer holidays and October half-term, showing a predictable seasonal spike

  • Derbac M

  • ...
picture of two primary school children whispering to eachother while learning about friendship

Why Do Children Stay Friends With People Who Hurt Them? A Mum’s Guide to School Friendship Drama

There comes a stage in primary school when friendships start to feel very different.

In our house, we’ve slowly moved from carefree playground friendships and big groups of friends to smaller, tighter circles where the drama seems to happen more often. Little squabbles have turned into hurtful comments and confusing fallouts, and some evenings end with teary conversations at bedtime...

picture of loving parents supporting their child with learning

Supporting Learning Without Over-Structuring

When it comes to fostering effective learning in children, there is a delicate balance between providing guidance and allowing independence. Over-structuring can unintentionally limit creativity, problem-solving, and self-motivation. By adopting a more flexible approach, parents and educators can encourage children to take ownership of their learning while still offering essential support....

picture of a happy family sat on a sofa talking to eachother building good communication skills

The Impact of Parental Communication on Child Confidence

A child’s confidence is often shaped long before they step into a classroom or join a sports team. One of the most significant influences on a child’s self-esteem is the way parents communicate with them. Positive, supportive communication can help children develop a strong sense of self-worth, while negative or inconsistent communication may undermine their confidence.

Listening and...
picture of a child thinking with icons around his head showing he is thinking

Raising Thoughtful Thinkers in a Digital Age 

In today’s world, children are growing up surrounded by screens , social media, and instant information. While technology offers incredible learning opportunities, it also presents unique challenges for developing critical thinking skills. Raising thoughtful thinkers in a digital age requires a balance between embracing technology and encouraging reflection, curiosity, and independent thought...

picture of a happy mum and child preparing a healthy nutritious meal together

How to Support a Healthy, Happy Relationship With Food in Childhood

Developing a healthy relationship with food is one of the most important lessons a child can learn. It is not just about eating the right foods but understanding how food affects the body and mind. When children grow up with positive attitudes towards eating, they are more likely to maintain good nutritional habits into adulthood.

Encourage Balanced Eating, Not Restriction

Rather...

picture of a parent and child doing a puzzle to promote problem solving skills

Helping Children Develop Problem-Solving Skills

Problem-solving is an essential skill that children need to navigate challenges, make decisions, and build confidence. Encouraging children to think critically and approach problems creatively not only supports their academic growth but also equips them for real-life situations. Here’s how parents and educators can help children develop strong problem-solving abilities.

Encouraging...
picture of a happy emotionally resilient child wearing red and jumping in the air

Raising Resilient Kids Through Everyday Challenges

Raising Resilient Kids Through Everyday Challenges

Resilience is a vital life skill that helps children navigate the ups and downs of childhood and beyond. It is not about shielding children from difficulties, but rather equipping them with the tools to face challenges, adapt, and thrive. Everyday situations offer countless opportunities to foster resilience, from learning to tie...

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