How To Help Your Young Children Become The Best Version Of Themselves

As a parent, you will always want the best for your children. Fortunately, there are plenty of steps that you can take to help make this possible, ensuring that they grow to become the best version of themselves.

From helping them to strengthen their strategic thinking abilities to discovering hobbies they generally love, read on to find out how you can help your children grow in both skill and confidence!

Praise your child. While this may seem fairly obvious, one of the easiest ways to help your child grow in confidence is to offer consistent, genuine praise. Not only will this make them feel better about themselves, but studies have found that this kind of positive reinforcement can also improve their resilience or willingness to try something new, as it “sends the message that effort and actions are the sources of success, leading children to believe they can improve their performance through hard work.”

Teach them to be patient. Teaching your children to be patient can help to develop a range of useful skills, such as empathy and resilience. Not only that, but patience can also help to regulate negative emotions, such as frustration and anger, which means that they are less likely to act or misbehave. Fortunately, there are many different ways in which you can teach your children to be patient. For example, you could start small by saying that they can watch TV in five minutes, as opposed to turning it on right away. This shows them that waiting and being patient have their rewards!

Help them discover hobbies they enjoy. Hobbies are important at any stage in life, but particularly so during childhood. This is because they help children to develop a host of skills that will not necessarily be covered in the classroom or at nursery. For example, football classes for 3 year olds can not only help improve their mobility and agility, but will also show them the power of working as part of a team for the first time. This, in turn, can help strengthen their social skills and ability to make friends.

Let them make mistakes. Many children are afraid to make mistakes due to a fear of letting their parents down. This is a mindset that you must actively work to dispel by letting them know that mistakes are just a part of life. One way in which you can achieve this goal is by admitting to your own mistakes and shortcomings. However, instead of framing them as something entirely negative, instead say what you learned because of this mistake. This way, your children will begin to view mistakes as a learning opportunity and not the end of the world.

You should also make it clear that if they have made a mistake, this is something that you can help them with. This way, they are much more likely to open up to you should they need help.

Encourage them to talk openly about their emotions. Encouraging your child to talk openly and honestly about how they are feeling will also help them to grow into the best version of themself. This is because it will sharpen their emotional intelligence, while also helping them to understand “big” feelings or emotions that they may be experiencing for the first time.

Again, one of the easiest ways in which you can encourage this behavior from your children is to lead by example. For example, you could spend a little time each evening talking about your day and how certain things made you feel (good and bad). You can then ask your child to do the same. If they express a negative emotion, try to help them understand why they feel that way, and put together a plan they can follow to help them feel better moving forward.

On a similar note, you should help your child find as many ways as possible to express themselves. For example, some children find it easier to express themselves through crafts, such as painting and drawing over their words, especially in their younger years. Older children may find keeping a diary or journal to be similarly beneficial.

Help them develop their strategic thinking skills. Strategic thinkers are able to rise above challenges, whether that’s in school or the workplace. For this reason, finding effective ways for kids to develop strategic thinking skills is another great way to shape the adult they’ll become for the better. This can be achieved through:

Playing games that encourage them to think strategically, such as Chess, Risk and Checkers.
Solving puzzles, such as word searches or Sudoku, together as a family.
Encouraging them to ask questions when they do not understand something.
Prompting them to think deeply about the things they are learning about by asking questions.

Let them be children. Letting children simply be children is another great way to help your child become the best (and the happiest) version of themselves. While extracurricular activities are beneficial, they should not take up the bulk of your children’s time, especially in their younger years. Instead, you should ensure that they spend most of their time playing, which is more crucial for healthy child development than you may initially realise. For example, through playing make-believe, they “learn to navigate challenges and understand cause-and-effect relationships.”

Encourage them to learn an instrument. Learning to play an instrument is another great way to help your child develop a whole host of skills. For example, it can improve everything from their cognitive ability to their coordination skills, whether they are learning to play the guitar or the drums. Ideally, you should let them choose which instrument they’d like to play. This ensures that they are as enthusiastic as possible about the idea of attending music classes, as opposed to feeling as though this is something they are forced to do.

You should also make sure that you offer them support when practicing, even if they don’t sound all that great to begin with. After all, learning to play an instrument takes time, and while they may have a natural skill, it could be a little while before they are able to play all that well.

Teach your child to be responsible. Teaching your children to be responsible is also key in helping them to become the best versions of themselves moving forward. Fortunately, there are many ways in which you can ensure that you are raising responsible children. For example, you could start by assigning them weekly, age-appropriate chores in order to get their pocket money or receive a reward. When they do not hold up their end of the bargain, do not give them the reward. This shows them that their actions have clear consequences and will encourage them to be more responsible moving forward.

Welcoming a pet into your home is another great way to teach your children to be more responsible, though it is not a decision you should make lightly. You should make sure that both your children and you are ready to take on this challenge and provide the pet with the love and care that it deserves. Remember, it is a living being with complex needs, not a learning opportunity.

Spend quality time with them. Spending quality time with your children will also play a key role in their development and overall self-esteem. This is because spending time together shows your children that they are valued and loved, while also strengthening the bond you share. As such, you should make sure that you always set aside some time in your day for your children. When you’re working, this can be as simple as watching an episode of their favoirte TV show together, or sitting down at the dining room table to eat tea together as opposed to eating separately.

At the weekend, you have a few more options to choose from, whether you’re spending a sunny day at the park or visiting a local museum.

Final thoughts. As a parent, you will always want what is best for your child. Fortunately, there are plenty of steps that you can take now to put them in the best possible position as they grow before your eyes. For example, you can help your children to become the best possible versions of themselves by:

Praising them, especially when they are putting themselves outside of their comfort zone.
Teaching them to be patient so that they can regulate their emotions.
Helping them to discover hobbies that they genuinely enjoy
Letting them make mistakes so that they can learn from them
Encouraging them to talk openly about their emotions
Helping them to develop their strategic thinking and problem-solving skills
Letting them be children so that they can learn through play
Encouraging them to learn an instrument
Teaching them to be responsible and to hold themselves accountable
Spending as much quality time with them as possible

Following the guidance outlined above will ensure that your child has the best start in life, especially if you continue to shower them with love throughout.

This is a collaborative post.

life, travel

5 Tips to Be a More Responsible Driver & Stay Safe

Who doesn’t want to be a more responsible driver? It helps you stay safe on the road and offers more than a few benefits. Some of the more notable of these are:

Avoiding accidents on the road.
Reducing your insurance premiums long-term.
Keeping your car running properly.
Giving you greater peace of mind.

You’ve no reason not to put the time and effort into it. That being said, responsible driving isn’t just a matter of putting your seatbelt on. You’ll have to put a lot more work into it.

Thankfully, this doesn’t have to mean it needs to be complicated. It could be a whole lot easier than you’d think. Even if you’ve been in accidents before, there are more than a few ways to be better. In these cases, it could be vital. You just need to know what you’re doing going forward.

Focusing on a few driving tips and looking after your car can be some of the better ways of doing this. Five of these could help a lot more than you’d think. They’re more than worth trying.

Have a Lawyer on standby

As much as you’ll try to avoid car accidents and similar issues, it doesn’t mean they’re always avoidable. Sometimes, you could be the victim in the accident. Another car could crash into yours because of negligence or similar reasons. It’s always worth making sure you’re prepared for this.

One of the better ways to do this is to have a car accident lawyer on-hand for when you need them. You don’t even need to hire them straight away. Instead, just having their contact details for when you need them could be more than enough to help. It’s worth looking for the best one you can afford.

Look For the Right Insurance

While car insurance is mandatory, many drivers don’t put a lot of time and effort into it. They’ll go with the basics and leave it at that. It’s worth putting more time into it than that, though. The more comprehensive your insurance is, the better off you’ll be if you ever get into an accident.

Then there’s the difficulty in getting car insurance if you’ve been in any accidents or have driving convictions. Thankfully, many providers specialise in insuring people with convictions. Insurance Revolution boasts ‘Convicted Driver? We Can Help!’ for a reason. It’s worth putting in the effort into looking for the best provider for you.

Be Proactive With Maintenance

Keeping your car in great shape is key in being a responsible driver, just like with your home and back garden. It’s always worth putting the time and effort into proactive maintenance to help with this. It’ll help you make sure you don’t need to worry about any issues turning up anytime soon. It’s one of the best steps you can take for you and your car.

This doesn’t even need to be too hard. Inspecting your car regularly lets you figure out if anything needs to be addressed. Then there are the smaller steps, like checking your oil and washer water, and rotating your tyres. You’ll end up keeping your car in the best condition possible. You’ve every reason to put the time and effort into it.

Don’t Ignore Warning Signs

Cars have warning signs built into the dashboard. These will light up when there are specific issues with your vehicle. Make sure you know what they mean. Your car owner’s manual should give you all of the information you need to understand them. Take the time to read up on them.

Then there’s the fact it’s worth getting any issues addressed when the warning lights pop up. Red warning lights are the most important, as they highlight large and immediate issues with your car. Even the less important ones should be sorted out relatively quickly.

Get It Serviced Regularly

Looking after your car is a great way to be a responsible driver. There’s only so much you can do yourself, though. It’s always worth getting a professional to check your car out every once in a while, too. It helps to make sure there aren’t any issues you aren’t aware of. You’ve no reason not to get your car serviced.

If there are any issues you aren’t aware of, you can get them sorted out relatively easily. A car service doesn’t need to be that expensive. With how much it can help you when there’s an issue, it’s worth taking the time to do. Get it done every few months to be safe.

Factors to Focus On to Be a More Responsible Driver

These can all help you be a more responsible driver. That doesn’t mean they’re the only areas you should focus on. Instead, it can always be worth developing a few skills and focussing on a few factors while you’re at it. You would’ve learned quite a bit during driving school before.

That doesn’t mean you’ll know everything you need to know. To be a more responsible driver, it’s worth doing a bit extra. Focussing on a few specific areas helps, like:

Being Able to See the Big Picture – You’ll naturally need to focus on the road ahead when you’re driving. That doesn’t mean you should have tunnel vision, though. Make sure you pay attention to your surroundings while you’re at it. This helps you figure out if there are any potential risks on other parts of the road. It’ll help you to stay safe on the road.
Knowing Your Car’s Capabilities – Different vehicles have different capabilities. While that seems obvious, many people overlook their own car’s capabilities. They’re not entirely sure of what their car is capable of. They could overestimate it. Don’t fall into that position. Make sure you know your car’s exact capabilities so you don’t push it too hard.
Learn to Be Patient – There’ll be plenty of times on the road that might test your patience. You could be stuck in a traffic jam. Other drivers could cut you off. These situations, while often unavoidable, shouldn’t cause an aggressive reaction. By learning to be patient, you avoid any instances of road rage and similar issues. These are never good, so be as patient as you can.

These should help you be a better driver without needing to put a lot of time and effort into it. You shouldn’t have a problem staying safe once you’ve worked on them.

Adding them to each of the above strategies helps to make sure you’re as safe on the road as possible. With how much of an impact they can have going forward, you’ve no reason not to put the effort into them. What’s stopping you from trying to become a better driver?

Wrapping Up

It’s always worth trying to be a more responsible driver. You don’t even need to be in any accidents to want to be better. It’ll offer more than a few benefits for you, your car, and even your wallet. It’s just a matter of focusing on the right driving tips and knowing what you’re doing.

While this seems like it’ll take a lot of time and effort, it doesn’t need to. Once you’re focusing on the right areas, it could get easier and easier.

The right strategies should be more than enough to help with this. Then there are the various skills and factors you could work on to be a better driver. Working on these helps make sure your car’s in good condition, while also helping you avoid more than a few accidents. You’ve no reason not to put a bit of effort into them.

This is a collaborative post.

cooking with kids, life

How to Support Both Ageing Parents and Kids Without Burning Out

Life has a way of throwing you right into the deep end, doesn’t it? One minute, you’re handling school drop-offs and art projects (and pretty much anything related to the development of your child), and the next, you’re juggling doctor appointments for your ageing parents while trying to figure out what’s for dinner. Suddenly, you’re the go-to person for two generations with wildly different needs, and it can feel like you’re running on empty most of the time.

They call it the “sandwich generation,” but honestly, that makes it sound way too neat. Seriosuly, in rarer, it’s messy, exhausting, and more than a little overwhelming. But here’s the thing: you’re not alone in this balancing act. It is definitely possible to manage both roles without completely losing your sanity.

Now, by all means, it sounds way too good to be true, right, well, it can be true. But when it comes to something as messy as this, where do you even begin?

Start Talking, Not Guessing

If you’re feeling like everyone wants a piece of you, it’s probably because they do. Your parents need help as they adjust to ageing, and your kids need guidance, attention, and probably snacks. But what’s the first step? Well, realistically speaking, you need to start having real conversations with both generations.

Talk with your parents about what they need and how they’re feeling about their independence. They might be too proud to say they need help, or they might already feel smothered by too much of it. Getting on the same page helps avoid misunderstandings and lets you focus on what actually matters. But of course, be sure to explain the situation to your kids too, and yes, kids are smarter than what parents give them credit for.

Stop Trying to Be Everything to Everyone

Read this out loud, and then repeat it: it’s okay to say no. Say it again now. Seriously, trying to do it all is the fastest way to burn out. Now, setting boundaries doesn’t mean you don’t care, it means you’re human.

You need to prioritise what absolutely has to be done and learn to delegate. Siblings, other family members, or even trusted friends can step in to share the load. If your mum needs a lift to her doctor’s appointment, maybe your sibling can step up this time. Or if the kids have football practice, maybe a fellow parent can carpool (most really won’t mind chipping in).

Really, it’s also okay to set limits at home. Maybe your parents don’t need you to cook every single meal if they can still handle breakfast or lunch on their own. Or maybe your kids don’t need you micromanaging their homework every night. Small adjustments go a long way in protecting your sanity.

Tech Will Make Your Life So Much Easier

When life feels like a never-ending list of things to do, technology can be a lifesaver. Currently, we’re living in a time where a phone is just as powerful as a computer, where you have the whole world at the touch of a button.

So, just use tech, for example, shared calendars can help you keep track of everyone’s schedules, like Grandpa’s dentist appointment to your kid’s school recital. There are even meal-planning apps that make grocery shopping less of a headache.

Now, it’s not just about appointments (or buying food), so shared apps might not be enough (or the only thing either). Ideally, you might want to look into other pieces of tech. For example, something like a personal medical alert system, you really need peace of mind during the times you’re not around them. But at the same time, they need their independence, so it’s a good middle ground.

Create Routines That Actually Work

So here’s the thing, routines aren’t just for toddlers. They can be the glue that holds everything together when life gets chaotic. For example, you might want to start by carving out specific times for each group’s needs. Maybe mornings are spent helping your parents with breakfast, medications, or errands, and afternoons are focused on your kids’ activities and homework.

Even simple things like designating a family dinner time can create a sense of structure and connection. But the thing is, you need to be flexible, you can’t have a rigid routine, it just won’t work.

Get the Kids Involved

Okay, sure, your kids might not be able to run errands or balance the books, but they can help more than you think. Depending on their age, this could be for the best. Just think about it; getting them involved in caring for their grandparents not only lightens your load but also creates opportunities for them to bond in meaningful ways.

For example, younger kids can help with simple tasks like reading a story, fetching a glass of water, or organising board games. Older kids might be able to run errands, cook a meal, or keep their grandparents company while you tackle other responsibilities.

Now, this really can’t be stressed enough, but this isn’t about turning your kids into caretakers, it’s about showing them the importance of family and letting them feel like part of the team. Plus, grandparents often have the best stories, and those moments can create memories your kids will treasure forever.

Find Your Own Breathing Room

Here’s the reality: you can’t pour from an empty cup. Yes, really! Taking care of everyone else means you need to take care of yourself too, even if it feels impossible some days. Just remember that your well-being is just as important as everyone else’s. And when you’re feeling your best, you’re better equipped to handle the demands of caregiving.

Ask for Help and Accept It

There’s no trophy for doing it all by yourself. In fact, trying to shoulder everything alone is a fast track to exhaustion. But at the same time, asking for help doesn’t mean you’re failing, it means you’re smart enough to recognize that caregiving is a team effort. Why not ask other family members to chip in?

Chances are, even your cousins might not mind helping (or close friends). Even small gestures, like someone running an errand or watching the kids for an hour, can make a huge difference.

This is a collaborative post.

kids, life

Laundry hacks to change your life

Laundry is no-one’s favourite topic, nor their favourite way to spend a weekend but you know what? We all have to clean our clothes, so it’s definitely worth spending some time to learn a few hacks that will make laundry time a little more bearable, right? Well, read on – you’re in for a treat.

1. Say Goodbye to Lost Socks

If you are sick of doing the laundry only to find that one-half of your favourite pair of socks has seemingly taken leave of your home for pastures new, then you need mesh laundry bags in your life. Place your socks inside a mesh bag before cleaning and it will not get sucked into the washer vortex, and you won’t have to wear a mismatched pair for work the next day.

2. Sorting Without Losing Your Marbles (Or Your Mind)

Sorting clothes is about as fun as watching paint dry, but if you streamline the process, it becomes a tiny bit less soul-sucking. Get three hampers (or laundry baskets) and label them: Whites, Darks, and Mixed Colours. Voila! You’ve turned your laundry area into a self-sorting paradise. By the time you’re ready to run a load, you’ve done 90% of the mental work in advance. Sorting at the source means no more dumping a mountain of clothes onto the floor and squinting at them like they’re abstract art. You’ll just grab a basket and go. Easy-peasy.

3. The Holy Grail of Freshness

Let’s talk about the nose. Sure, we can’t all strut around in couture, but we can at least smell fabulous. Enter the scent booster—tiny fragrant crystals or beads you toss directly into the washer. These magical pellets seep into your fabrics, leaving your clothes smelling like a field of lavender or a crisp Alpine breeze (take your pick). When you walk down the street and people ask if you just returned from a spa weekend, you’ll know your secret weapon. It’s basically aromatherapy for your wardrobe, and trust me, your nostrils will thank you.

4. Pre-Treat Stains Like a Pro (Before They Become Legendary)

That marinara sauce you spilled on your shirt last Tuesday? Don’t let it become a permanent addition to your personal textile museum. The key is speed. Keep a stain stick or spray by your hamper and zap those blemishes before they set in. For grease stains, a dab of washing up liquid works wonders: just gently rub it in and let it sit before washing. For ink, try a splash of rubbing alcohol. For coffee, cold water is your first line of defense. Address stains ASAP, and you’ll avoid that “Ugh, I can never wear this shirt again” moment we’ve all faced at least 27 times.

5. Chill Out and Save Your Threads

If you’re still blasting your clothes with hot water for every load, take a step back. Cold water is not only gentler on fabrics, preventing shrinkage and fading, but it also saves energy. That means less guilt about your electricity bill and fewer times you’ll have to bid farewell to a sweater that suddenly shrank to hamster size. Unless you’re dealing with seriously grubby gym gear or certain bedding that needs a hot wash, give the cooler settings a try. Your clothes (and wallet) will appreciate the chill attitude.

6. The Art of Drying

Over-drying clothes is like overcooking a steak, (if you are a meat eater, naturally) just plain wrong. If you have a dryer with a moisture sensor, trust it. Otherwise, learn the approximate drying times for various loads. Stop the machine when clothes are slightly damp, then hang them up to finish drying. This reduces wrinkles and static. Bonus hack: toss in a couple of dryer balls (wool or silicone) to fluff up the load and reduce drying time. They’re like tiny gym buddies for your tumbling T-shirts, keeping everyone separate and well-aerated.

7. The Dynamic Duo

We all know these two household staples are great for cooking and cleaning, but they’re also laundry heroes. Add half a cup of distilled white vinegar to the rinse cycle to banish any funky odours that might be lurking in your fabrics. Bye-bye, mysterious mustiness. For whitening and brightening, a half cup of baking soda in the wash can give your whites extra sparkle without harsh chemicals. Just make sure you don’t mix vinegar and baking soda in the same cycle, or you’ll end up with a science fair volcano reenactment in your washing machine.

8. Ironing Hacks, Because You Deserve Better

Ironing is, let’s face it, the least fun part of looking put-together. If you want to spend less time wrangling that board and more time sipping iced coffee, try these tricks. First, hang clothes immediately after the dryer cycle ends, this nips wrinkles in the bud. For shirts that need some serious de-creasing, slightly dampen them before ironing. And if you’re really feeling lazy, hang your crinkled clothes in the bathroom while you take a hot shower. The steam works as a makeshift iron, and you can pretend you’re running a fancy spa for your outfits.

9. Colour-Saving Hacks: Because Your Red Shirt Isn’t Supposed to Turn Pink

Want to keep your colours vibrant? Wash darks inside out to reduce friction and fading. For new, brightly coloured garments, toss in a cup of white vinegar to help set the dye. And if you’re paranoid about that brand-new, deep purple dress turning your entire load lavender, test it first by dampening a hidden area and pressing it with a white cloth. No colour transfer? Game on. A little vigilance prevents awkward colour-mixing surprises.

10. Set a Laundry Schedule To Tame the Monster

Laundry has a way of piling up until it looks like a textile version of Mount Everest, especially if you have kids, but you know what? It doesn’t have to be that way. You can tame the beast that is dirty laundry by simply setting a schedule that lays out exactly when you are going to wash everything from the sheets to the kids dirty soccer shirts, and then stick to it.

11. Storage Smarts

Once your clothes are clean and fresh, you want to keep them that way, right? Well, the way to do that is by using scented draw liners and putting your clothes away immediately. You can also spray a little fabric freshener into closets and, of course, never fold clothes until they are completely dry or they could end up with a must odor!

Laundry? Let’s do it!

this is a collaborative post.

life

High-tech Mattress Helps Couples Sleep Better Together

Many couples are facing a new challenge in their relationships: getting a good night’s sleep together. From snoring and tossing to general restlessness (and small children!) these disturbances often push partners to seek separate bedrooms, a trend known as ‘sleep divorce.’ However, sleep expert Lisa Artis, Deputy CEO of The Sleep Charity, advises against this growing trend, stressing the importance of co-sleeping for emotional connection, conflict resolution, and overall well-being.

For those looking for an alternative to ‘sleep divorces’, some have found that the right mattress can make a significant difference. Many shoppers, for example, have praised the Simba Hybrid® Original mattress for easing night-time disturbances between couples. While buying a new mattress may seem like a big investment, for some, it has proven to be worthwhile in maintaining both sleep and their relationships.

A New Study on Sleep and Relationships

A recent study* by Simba highlights the generational divide in how sleep affects relationships. According to the research, more than 60% of young people in relationships (aged 18-34) believe that improving sleep would strengthen their connection with their partner. In contrast, only about 33% of Baby Boomers (aged 65 and older) felt that better sleep would have the same impact on their relationship.

Paul R, a customer, shared his experience:
“Last year, my girlfriend refused to stay over because she couldn’t get a good night’s sleep. She’s used to the finer things in life, and my cheap bed wasn’t cutting it. After buying a new mattress and some high-end sheets, she agreed to stay over again. Now, everything is great, and according to my Fitbit, I’m getting an extra hour of sleep each night. Thanks, Simba, for helping me save my relationship—I thought it was me she was avoiding, not the bed!”

The Sleep Divorce Debate

‘Sleep divorces’—where couples sleep in separate rooms—have become increasingly popular, especially among celebrities, as a way to cope with snoring, fidgeting, or other disturbances during the night. While this may provide short-term relief, experts like Lisa Artis believe it can come at a cost. Artis suggests that sleeping together offers benefits like emotional bonding and more restful sleep, pointing out that couples who share a bed get around 10% more and less fragmented REM sleep.

Simba’s research shows that 60% of Gen Z (aged 18-24) and nearly 67% of millennials (aged 25-44) believe better sleep can improve their relationship, but only 3 in 10 Baby Boomers (65+) agree. This highlights a significant shift in how different generations view sleep and its impact on their personal lives.

Customer Stories of Improved Sleep

Couples struggling with sleepless nights have found that the right mattress can make all the difference. Shoppers have shared their positive experiences, particularly with the Simba Hybrid® mattress, which some say has eased snoring and restlessness.

Julia G, for instance, reviewed her purchase:
“I haven’t had a full night’s sleep in years because my husband snores dreadfully due to a medical condition. But thanks to Simba, that’s a thing of the past. The snoring hasn’t completely gone, but it’s much improved, and I’m finally getting some proper sleep.”

Another customer, Naomi O, said,
“Somehow, my partner doesn’t snore anymore! I also barely notice him getting in and out of bed, so I’m not being disturbed at all. I just wish we’d invested in a Simba mattress sooner, but better late than never!”

Keith K, who chose a more premium option, the Hybrid® Pro mattress, also shared his experience:
“We’ve got a new baby, so we’re up a lot during the night. The mattress is so comfortable that we’ve loved sneaking in a cheeky afternoon nap—it’s hard to get back up! Plus, the top zips off for easy washing, which is a lifesaver with a baby. Massive thumbs up from both of us.”

Not Just a Trend—A Practical Solution

While some might dismiss the idea of a fancy mattress as an unnecessary expense, it’s worth noting that investing in a better sleep setup can have long-lasting benefits. A well-rested couple is often a happier couple, and for some, this investment is one that pays off.

Emma S, another customer, remarked:
“I don’t feel my partner moving at all, and he doesn’t complain about me fidgeting to get comfy. The mattress springs are great, and the fabric feels really nice. Plus, the free mattress protector is a bonus!”

For some, the addition of a quality duvet has also been a game-changer. Emma T noted:
“The 3-in-1 hybrid duvet is amazing. It’s not cheap, but it regulates temperature perfectly. I’m a warm sleeper, and my wife is always cold, but under this duvet, we’re both sleeping like babies.”

Expert Advice: Sleeping Together is Worth It

As sleep divorces rise in popularity, Lisa Artis urges couples to work on their shared sleep habits rather than opting for separate bedrooms. She encourages couples to “consciously recouple and sleep better together” instead of giving in to the temptation of sleeping apart. Co-sleeping, she believes, offers important emotional and physical benefits that go beyond simply getting rest.

Whether it’s investing in a new mattress, rethinking bedding options, or working on better sleep habits, the key takeaway is that good sleep is essential for maintaining healthy, happy relationships. After all, as one shopper put it, “I’m finally sleeping well—and I didn’t have to move into another bedroom to do it!”

21% off for young people, key and charity workers

This is a post in collaboration with Simba who are B Corp certified. Simba are on a mission to bring great sleep to the globe. But know times are tough and quality sleep products are costly. That’s why Simba offer exclusive discounts to several groups in the community such as key workers, students and others. Just check your eligibility here – you’ll find A Guide to UK Bed Sizes here too.

*Simba commissioned Sago to poll 2,017 respondents for the research.

create, life

Nailing the Mommy Look Without Losing Yourself

Being a mom (or indeed, a mum) can be an exciting, chaotic adventure, but that doesn’t mean giving up your personal style. While the “mommy look” may come with stereotypes attached, that doesn’t have to mean living in yoga pants and ditching makeup forever. Accepting your new role while remaining true to yourself is completely achievable. Don’t feel the pressure to go out with a full face on, however, here’s how you could combine practicality with personality so that you look and feel just as fabulous as before.

Photo by Sai De Silva on Unsplash

Finding the Balance Between Chic and Convenient

Parenthood often forces your schedule around nap times and school pickups, but finding the balance between chic and convenient can be done. Start by investing in good quality staple clothing pieces, a ‘capsule collection’ if you like, that can manage your busy lifestyle. Classic jeans are great, along with stylish tops that allow free movement, and BF access if needed, and layering is your friend here for sudden temperature shifts and adding depth to an outfit. Add statement accessories like a beret, bold sunglasses or colourful scarves for quick wins of style without compromising comfort.

Embrace the Power of Makeup and Simplicity

Time is of the essence in the mornings, so making each moment count with an efficient makeup routine can make all the difference. Try investing in quality BB cream for quick application and an instant hint of glow. Mascara and tinted lip balm often suffice in creating an attractive appearance. Natural yet put-together looks help maintain that ever-elusive sense of self while meeting daily demands.

Hairstyles That Work as Hard as You Do

On those busy mornings when time is of the essence, having a versatile and easy hairstyle can be your ally. Look for styles that transition seamlessly from playdates to board meetings. Ponytails or quick top knots may come to the rescue. More complex styles could include heatless curls – twisting your braids the night before so they will unfold into beautiful waves by morning.

Utilise Tutorials for Your Hairstyle

The internet offers numerous hairstyle tutorials that can help simplify your morning routine. From quick buns and braids to elegant updos and more, online resources have you covered for any type of style you might be in search of. YouTube and Pinterest offer step-by-step guides from professional stylists and everyday enthusiasts alike, giving you access to invaluable tutorials that can teach you techniques that will enable you to transform your look with minimal effort. Investing a small amount of time learning from these videos could equip you with techniques for effortlessly altering your look. Start with a low ponytail tutorial as your starting point, and add twists or braids for unique variations. Not only will this approach save time but it’ll also inspire creativity allowing you to experiment and discover styles that suit both your personality and daily needs.

Accessorise Carefully

Accessories are the perfect way to give your hairstyle an added layer of character and add flair. Just a few clips, pins or headbands can transform even a basic style into an eye-catching one in no time at all. For busy mornings and reduced effort required in using accessories such as hats, or hair scarves which tie quickly in just seconds while adding instant style. Headbands also work great at taming flyaways while adding flair.

Adorn with Jewellery

Jewellery is an age-old way to complete any look and make a statement. From delicate necklaces to bold bracelets, the right piece can elevate any ensemble and add flair and charm. Bracelets for women in particular are versatile accessories that can be styled for both formal and casual events alike. Their minimalist designs or intricate, gemstone-encrusted pieces add sophistication and charm, reflecting your individuality as part of an ensemble. The ideal way to express your style.

Self-Care Isn’t Selfish

Being a mom may make time for “me-time” seem impossible. Yet prioritising yourself is important not only to maintaining sanity but also expressing yourself uniquely. Find activities that help ground and rejuvenate you such as monthly spa visits or reading a favourite book before bed, anything that helps keep the balance. Being a parent shouldn’t take over who you are as an individual.

Find Joy in Making Your Own Rules

Now is the time to forge your own path towards fabulousness. Fashion doesn’t come with one size fits all rules, rather it should be an exciting journey filled with trial-and-error. Have fun experimenting and switching patterns or looking into diaper bags that could double up as fashion accessories. There isn’t an obligatory style guide attached to parenthood, feel free to make up rules as you go.

Revel in Your Natural Beauty

When it comes to personal style, embracing your natural beauty is an age-old approach that never goes out of style. Letting your natural hair texture flourish and showing off unique features can be very empowering and liberating. Not that this means forgoing makeup or styling completely, just focus on accentuating natural features instead. Using gentle plant-based products for skincare purposes as well as maintaining an effective routine that addresses skin needs will create radiant canvas complexions. Staying natural simply means acknowledging and celebrating what makes you beautiful.

Conclusion

In motherhood (or fatherhood), remember who you are first, an individual first and foremost. Your style reflects this identity through stitches, stains and all. Adopting parenthood doesn’t have to mean forgoing your personal flair. With some creativity injected into daily activities you can navigate “mommy look” gracefully and enthusiastically. Be the stylishly unique lighthouse standing proud on shore among parenting cliches.

This is a collaborative post.

kids, life

Preparing For A New Baby? Here are some things you need to know

Are you starting to, or have you been preparing for a new baby recently? If so, the first thing that we want to say is congratulations. That’s such exciting news, and we’re super happy for you. Now though, you want to start preparing for a new baby as much as you can to get ready for their arrival. It’s going to be tough sometimes, and you’re probably going to question whether you can do this at least 100 times over the next few months, but we promise that you can. Keep reading down below if you are interested in finding out more about what you need to know when it comes to preparing for a new baby.

Understanding Sleep Safety

First thing that we’re going to mention is that you need to understand sleep safety. Now, there are so many different views and opinions on this, but the facts are the facts. Your baby is going to be at their safest when they are swaddled in a blanket, in their own sleeping space. However, a lot of people do not agree with this, or this becomes too difficult if they have a fussy baby, so they tend to co-sleep instead.

Co-sleeping is a super controversial topic, and not one that we want to get in the middle of. You need to do whatever is best for your baby, but if you are going to co-sleep then you need to read up on how to do it in the safest possible way. Of course, they are going to be safer in their own space, but sometimes you’ve gotta do what you’ve gotta do. There are lots of people who co-sleep, but there have also been many problems with it in the past.

Breast VS Bottle Feed?

Another controversial topic that we want to address is breast fed or bottle fed. Every mother has the right to choose which way they decide to feed their child, and you should make that decision according to what you feel is right for you and your baby. Yes, that’s right, we said what is right for you as well. Your baby is not the only consideration that you need to make here, you are important as well and you need to take your feelings into account.

For example, if you don’t like breastfeeding, if it’s too draining, if it’s hurting you too much, or if you generally just do not like it, you do not have to do it. Yes, there will always be those people out there who say that breast is best, but this is mainly the colostrum in the beginning. You don’t have to do anything that you’re not comfortable with. Fed is best. Always.

Typical Gifts You Will Receive

There are some gifts that you are more likely to receive than others, and you need to know this so that you know what to buy and what to expect from others. Of course, you should never expect anything from others without a reason to. If someone has said they’re going to get you a gift or if you know them to be that type of person then sure, but try not to rely on anyone else if they have not voiced their intentions.

Your friends and family may go online and type in newborn boy gifts or girl gifts depending on the gender of your baby. They will then use whatever comes up to help them decide on a gift which most of the time are cute little outfits, blankets and things like this. If there is something specific that you would like though and you have someone who asks you what you want for the baby, it’s okay to ask for things. Of course, as long as they are not outrageously expensive 🙂

You Do Not Need Everything

One of the things that we feel you need to know is that you do not need every baby item and product that you see. We promise you that. It’s easy to fall into the trap of thinking that you might need this, that, and the other, but more often than not, you don’t.

You don’t need 500 muslins, five or six will do (although you will be washing them a LOT!). You don’t need 500 blankets, a couple will do. You do need quite a few outfits because they tend to have a leaky nappy or sick up their milk, quite a bit in the beginning, especially if they have reflux issues.

You also do not need mountains of toys for a new baby. Yes, getting a baby swing, a baby mat, or a baby chair is a great idea as it keeps them entertained when you need to do something, but you definitely don’t need all three until they get a little older. Most of the time, you won’t use half of the things you purchase, so try not to go too crazy.

You Will Never Be Fully Prepared

The final piece of advice, and potentially the most important piece of advice that we are going to give you is that you can never be fully prepared. This doesn’t mean that you should not try, and it doesn’t mean that it’s pointless to do so. You can get as prepared as possible, and it will definitely help you in the long run, but you will never be fully prepared as it’s impossible. Your life will change a lot, and you will never be able to fully comprehend that until you experience it for yourself. We don’t say this to scare you, just so you understand the reality of the situation.

We hope that you have found this post helpful, and now have a more firm understanding of some of the things that you need to know about preparing for a new baby. It’s a long journey, but it’s one of the most rewarding things that you will ever experience in your life. You’ve got this, even when it seems impossible, even when it seems like you can’t do it anymore. We promise, you can.

This is a collaborative post.

life, teenage reviews

Our Perfect night in

Our Purrrrfect night in!

Ali writes:
Well, what could be more perfect than an autumn night in with your favourite cat and teenager right?

As these teenage boys get older, they want to spend more time apart from me – hanging out with their friends, or playing computer games and chatting online with mates. Having a kitten changes all of that – (as you will have read in other posts this year!) Kipper the cat has been such a blessing and has really brought the family together.

Once you’ve settled on the sofa on a Saturday night in to watch Strictly or the X-Factor (or both) Kipper the cat will find his way onto a warm lap and curl up and pin you down for hours!

I’ll admit, I’m pretty sure it’s cupboard love, as he’s always a bit more loving at breakfast and supper time if Whiskas cat casseroles are on the menu, but needless to say – it’s got both RB and myself back into cosying up on the sofa together to read a book of an evening – with a mug of tea and a play ‘Russian Roulette’ with a box of chocolates, (to explain, you take it in turns to eat a chocolate from the box without looking at the little diagram, which is really fun, as long as you don’t accidentally get the Turkish Delight).

We generally have refreshments on hand for Kipper too – whilst we are supping our tea, we always have a bowl of water in the sitting room for him, as well as fairly close to his food bowl in the kitchen – we read somewhere that they like to have fresh water available in more than one location – frankly, for us, it’s simply a ploy to get him to hang out with us some more, ultimately, he’s turning into a bit of a teenager…

This post is in conjunction with WHISKAS® but all thoughts are my own

#DateNightWithMyCat

kids, life

Five things you could do with 5 minutes peace

What we wouldn’t give for FIVE minutes peace and quiet!

We KNOW that the Holiday period is meant to be about being sociable, and playing with all of the new toys and gadgets – we KNOW that, yet, wouldn’t it be just delicious to sneak off and find five minutes peace and quiet to yourselves?

Our friends at Mahabis asked KidsChaos to share what we would do with those FIVE minutes, so we put our feet up and had a ponder…

Five things you could do with #5minutespeace and #thegiftofdowntime

1) Write a to-do list… even though that sounds like WORK, it will actually make you feel less anxious about things you may have forgotten about – jotting down your top priorities for the week ahead.

2) De-clutter your kitchen junk drawer (in fact, that could go for your handbag, your sock drawer and your magazine rack as options too!) Set an egg timer… and stop when it pings 5mins… (it’s actually very therapeutic!)

3) Give a friend a quick call on the telephone, just five minutes to ‘check in’ with someone who might like to hear your voice, rather than read your text!

4) Have a read of a chapter of Michael Townsend Williams’ book Do Breathe: Calm your mind. Find focus. Get stuff done.
“we breathe better, we think better, feel better and do better. Finding stillness inside, we create success outside.” Or take five mins to download his app here BreatheSync.

5) Put the kettle on, make a cuppa, and put your feet up!

It’s really amazing what can you do in five minutes hey?! It will honestly make you feel more productive and that you are on top of things, taking five minutes out to reflect.

Mahabis have published their very first Christmas advert, about finding 5 minutes peace this Christmas. This time of year can be so hectic, and we realise how rare it can be that you have time to put your feet up. Needless to say, spending five peaceful minutes away from noise will energise you, to be able to concentrate on the demands of family life (like making pancakes together, or being thrashed at the latest Christmas game)…

our very first christmas advert // ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ sometimes we all need 5 minutes peace. here at mahabis, we hope to make those minutes extra special. this christmas, give the gift of downtime. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ #5minutespeace #thegiftofdowntime #mahabis

A post shared by mahabis (@mahabis) on Dec 7, 2017 at 10:35am PST

A post shared by mahabis (@mahabis) on Jun 17, 2017 at 4:44am PDT

This post has been written in conjunction with Mahabis.

charity, create, education, gardening, gardening with kids, key stage 2, kids, life

Q&A with a community gardener

Q&A with a community gardener

Community gardener and founder of yourspace.sutton Kevin Plicio runs local community garden nursery Seears Park Nursery in Sutton. This nursery runs on pure volunteer manpower and community spirit, running training courses and therapeutic activities in a calming and peaceful environment. He has been running the beautiful non-profit nursery for almost six years, transforming it from a run-down nursery to a social and stunning community hub which has just recently been opened to the public.

As his daughter, Hannah, I’ve grown up around the transformation of the park, seeing it go from overgrown and slightly wild, to open space and inviting. Perfect for family days out and picnics, the nursery offers scenic and photogenic open areas, free for the public to utilise.

Q- So, tell us about what made you want to run a community project?
Well, the idea originally stemmed from me working at other projects, but these projects were all tailored to one specific group of people, or had one specific service, and I wanted to do something more socially integrating and open to all users, regardless of their background, age, or ability.

Q- What is there to see?
Honestly, there’s so much! We have this really great pond that’s just teeming with life, frogs, fish, newts, and even in the evening we get the occasional duck family coming to stay – it’s such a sight! We also have vegetable patches, some art display inside the main classroom from a local artist Santiago Plicio, the polytunnels have a great plant selection, including a great cactus area. We’re also in the process of making smaller gardens as part of the garden nursery, where 6 out of the 16 planned are complete. We also have this really stunning willow circle, which is just beautiful.

photo-1465405269228-024e4723a8d9 — thanks to Stephanie Krist for this photo

Q- Tell us about your volunteers, and who helps run the nursery.
We have quite a large group of volunteers here at the nursery, and without them, there would be no way that the place could be running. Some people volunteer for a month, and some have been volunteering for years, and we appreciate every bit of help we get. Their generosity and time is something I’m always going to be so grateful for.

Q- You’ve just opened to the public for the first time in almost six years, how does that feel?
It feels amazing, we’ve been getting this place ready for the public for so long and now it feels as if our work is finally paid off, and we can do what we’ve always set out to do, create a community project that everyone can benefit for. We’ve been running training courses and school placements for years which is so amazing, but now we can finally make it open to everyone, which was always the plan. We now run a plant sale every Saturday from 10:00am until 4:00pm, and the nursery is otherwise open Monday-Thursday from 9:30 until 5:30.

Q- Got any last words or comments that you want everyone to know?
I’d just love to see you there! Bring your friends, family, dogs, come and experience and enjoy the nursery, see what’s here, and if you want to contribute in any way then we’d love to hear from you too!

Seears Park Nursery is open to the public from 9:30am-5:30pm Monday to Thursday, and 10:am-4:00pm on a Saturday for the plant sale and general public use. Follow them on Facebook for events and updates here

Note from Ali – Thank you so much, Hannah, for introducing me to your dad’s amazing community project. Here’s a picture of a pond that my 13-year-old son made, with the addition of the Junctus that he bought from the Nursery!

Written by Hannah Plicio-Keattch