Soundtracks of my summers

I have always really loved music and had an eclectic taste from a young age. I notice what I listen to often changes with the seasons. Whilst rock and metal are my favourite genres, I find that I listen to more chart music in the summer. After all, in the summer I’m out and about more with my husband and it’s often feel-good pop songs on the radio when the sun is shining! Thinking back, there is always one song each year that really reminds me of that summer. Here I look back through the stand-out songs to me thinking back to summers gone and the memories that relate to them.

Bing Live! comes to the Orchard Theatre in Dartford, Kent

Does the phrase “It’s a Bing thing” sound familiar to you? If so, like me, you’re probably the parent of a Bing-loving toddler! Bing, a CGI programme on CBeebies follow the adventures of Bing bunny, his carer Flop and his friends. He experiences various new situations, which often lead to him overcoming a problem, usually with help from those around him. Now, Bing Live! brings Bing and his friends to life on stage for pre-schoolers – and they’re coming to the Orchard Theatre in Dartford, Kent!

Top tips for throwing the perfect children’s party

Feature image credit: JFunk / Shutterstock

Some parents revel at the idea of throwing their child a birthday party, but others aren’t so keen and have the clock on countdown from the minute the first guest arrives. To help you ensure that everything is in order and accounted for – without the stress – from the most over-the-top cake to the most colourful bunting. Here is a fail-safe guide to throwing the perfect children’s party:

Baby and Toddler Book Giveaway with Book People

Does your child enjoy reading? I’m raising a little bookworm! I’ve been reading to Autumn since she was about 6 weeks old and she absolutely loves books. Whether she’s on holiday, the library or at the park as the sun begins to set, reading is one of her favourite things to do. We recently received some lovely baby books from Book People – and you can win a duplicate set in the giveaway further down this page!

Acorn Dell at Hever Castle: A day in pictures

We were recently invited to the opening of a new play area for children under 7 at Hever Castle, which took place yesterday. This new playground, fittingly called Acorn Dell, blends in with the Tudor Towers play area. It continues the castle theme, with castellations featuring in both the play area and the seating area at the top. The natural aesthetic of the playground is fantastic and encourages children to use their imagination.

JB Gill, formerly of JLS, who presents Down on the Farm on CBeebies was the guest of honour to cut the blue ribbon before the playground was opened. His wife Chloe and 3 year-old son Ace also attended. Of course, the new playground needed some little testers! 

Encouraging reading with graphic novels

Graphic novels have gained popularity in recent years. This is partially thanks to the fact that it’s now actually quite fashionable to be a geek! Of course, the influx in Marvel film releases over the last few years hasn’t caused any harm either. If your child refuses to read, buying a graphic novel could be a good way to entice them. 

Growing healthy little feet with Dotty Fish

We all want to do the best for our children. I remember my parents being careful what shoes they bought me when I was growing up, as they knew the importance of looking after children’s feet carefully as they grow. This is something I’ve continued with Autumn, making sure that I have her feet measured regularly. However, I have recently learned about soft soled shoes and the effect they have on the health of baby’s feet. Dotty Fish have been working with The London Podiatry Centre to look into this – so here it is, the truth about what shoes your baby or toddler SHOULD be wearing!