KidsChaos.com

How To Use Peel and Stick Wallpaper With Your Kids: From Full Rooms to Crafts

Decorating your home with kids can be a fun, creative, and bonding experience. With the rise of Peel off wallpaper, transforming a room has never been easier. Unlike traditional wallpaper, peel and stick options are simple to apply, remove, and reposition, making them ideal for families who want flexibility and style. From full-room makeovers to small DIY craft projects, this guide covers everything you need to know to use peel and stick wallpaper with your kids.

Why Peel and Stick Wallpaper Is Perfect for Kids

Peel and stick wallpaper offers numerous benefits for families with children:

Easy Application: No paste, no mess, and no special tools are needed.
Removable & Reusable: Mistakes are easy to fix, and designs can be changed as kids grow.
Safe for Walls: Gentle adhesive won’t damage paint or plaster.
Variety of Designs: Endless options from playful patterns to educational motifs.

By choosing kids wallpaper, you can create a room that’s not just functional but also a source of inspiration for your little ones.

Transforming Full Rooms With Kids Wallpaper

When you want to make a big impact, covering an entire room with peel and stick wallpaper can completely change its feel. Here’s how to do it effectively:

1. Choose the Right Design

Theme-Based Rooms: Jungle, space, ocean, or fairy tale themes work well for kids.
Color Psychology: Soft blues and greens create a calming effect, while bright yellows and reds add energy.
Durability: Select high-quality peel and stick wallpaper that resists peeling and can handle occasional cleaning.

2. Measure and Plan

Measure the walls carefully to determine how much wallpaper you’ll need.
Sketch the layout to align patterns and avoid mismatched designs.

3. Prep the Walls

Clean walls thoroughly to remove dust and grease.
Smooth out bumps or holes for the best adhesion.

4. Involve Your Kids

Let them pick patterns or help with small pieces.
Encourage them to place stickers or smaller wallpaper sections under supervision, boosting their creativity.

Accent Walls: Adding Style Without Overwhelm

If a full-room makeover feels like too much, start with an accent wall. Accent walls create a focal point and give personality to a room without overpowering the space.

Steps to Create a Perfect Accent Wall

Pick the Right Wall: Choose a wall visible upon entry or behind a bed or play area.
Select Bold Patterns: Vibrant designs work best for accent walls, while surrounding walls can remain neutral.
Layer Subtle Textures: Mix plain and patterned wallpaper for depth and visual interest.

DIY Crafts With Peel and Stick Wallpaper

Peel and stick wallpaper isn’t just for walls. Its flexibility allows for fun and educational crafts with kids. Here are some ideas:

1. Cover Notebooks and Journals

Kids can personalize school supplies with favorite patterns.
Teaches organization and pride in ownership.

2. Create Decorative Panels

Cut wallpaper into smaller panels for shelves, toy boxes, or closet doors.
Use removable wallpaper to change designs seasonally.

3. Art Projects

Let kids cut shapes and create wall art or collages.
Encourages fine motor skills and color recognition.

Safety and Tips When Using Peel and Stick Wallpaper With Kids

To ensure a smooth experience, follow these practical tips:

Keep Small Pieces Away from Infants: Some designs may involve tiny, peelable elements.
Avoid High Humidity Areas: Bathrooms may reduce adhesive effectiveness.
Supervise Tools: Scissors and rulers should always be handled safely.
Clean Walls First: Dust-free walls improve adhesion and prevent air bubbles.

Step-by-Step Guide to Applying Peel and Stick Wallpaper

Here’s a detailed guide to make your wallpaper application stress-free:

Materials Needed:

Peel and stick wallpaper
Measuring tape
Pencil
Level
Smoothing tool (or credit card)

Instructions:

Measure and Cut: Pre-cut wallpaper panels to fit your walls.
Peel Backing Gradually: Remove a small section of backing to avoid sticking incorrectly.
Align and Apply: Start at the top of the wall, smooth downwards using a squeegee or card.
Smooth Bubbles: Press out air bubbles from the center to edges.
Trim Edges: Use a sharp blade to trim excess wallpaper along corners or edges.

Creative Ideas for Kids’ Rooms

Learning Walls: Alphabet, numbers, or maps printed on peel and stick wallpaper can turn walls into interactive learning tools.
Chalkboard Peel and Stick: Some wallpapers double as writable surfaces for drawing and practice.
Theme Corners: Create a small reading nook or art area with themed wallpaper to make the corner special.

Maintenance and Updates

One of the best features of peel and stick wallpaper is its removability:

Easy Cleaning: Wipe with a damp cloth to remove dirt or stains.
Quick Updates: Swap out old patterns as your child grows or as seasons change.
Damage-Free Removal: Simply peel it off without harming paint or wall texture.

Benefits of Using Kids Wallpaper

Using kids wallpaper has advantages beyond aesthetics:

Encourages Creativity: Children learn to appreciate colors and patterns.
Boosts Confidence: Letting kids help in decorating gives them a sense of ownership.
Stress-Free Decor: Peel and stick wallpapers reduce the mess and commitment of traditional options.
Flexible & Affordable: High-quality designs are budget-friendly and easy to replace.

Final Thoughts

Decorating with peel and stick wallpaper is a fantastic way to involve your kids in creative projects, refresh rooms, and explore endless design possibilities. Whether you’re tackling a full room transformation, creating an accent wall, or engaging in fun craft projects, this type of wallpaper provides flexibility, safety, and style.

Explore high-quality designs at Love vs Design and transform your home with kids wallpaper that inspires fun and creativity. Decorating with peel and stick wallpaper is a perfect addition to any family home. For interior design enthusiasts, guest posting opportunities can help you share ideas, trends, and DIY inspiration with a larger audience.

This has been a collaborative post.

crafts, teenage reviews

7 Fun Paint by Numbers Projects That Will Keep Your Kids Entertained for Hours

Introduction: Creative Screen-Free Entertainment That Sparks Joy

Every parent knows that moment when you’re desperately searching for something meaningful to occupy little hands without handing over another device. You want activities that actually engage their minds, not just fill time between meals. Paint by numbers delivers exactly this rare combination: a structured creative outlet that kids can genuinely master on their own while building real skills.

Unlike freeform painting that can frustrate beginners, or coloring books that some kids find too simple, creative painting activities for children like paint by numbers provide just enough guidance to ensure success while leaving room for genuine artistic expression. Each completed section brings visible progress, and that finished masterpiece becomes something worth displaying with pride.

Beyond keeping kids happily occupied, these projects quietly develop fine motor control, color recognition, sustained focus, and patience. Most importantly, they build artistic confidence through achievable challenges that look impressive when complete.

Essential Supplies Needed for Kids’ Paint by Numbers

GGetting started with kids’ paint by numbers doesn’t require a huge investment, but having the right supplies makes all the difference. At minimum, you’ll need a quality starter kit that matches your child’s age and skill level. Look for designs with clear, easy-to-read numbers and enough contrast between sections to avoid confusion.

Most kits include everything essential:

Pre-mixed acrylic paints in numbered containers (always check they’re non-toxic)
Multiple brush sizes for different area dimensions
A numbered canvas with the design already printed

Beyond the basics, gather a few household items. You’ll need a water cup for rinsing brushes between colors and some paper towels for quick cleanup. An old shirt or apron protects clothing from inevitable drips.

Here’s a game-changer many parents overlook: use an easel or prop the canvas at a 45-degree angle rather than laying it flat. This helps kids see their work better and reduces neck strain during longer painting sessions. Your child will thank you after an hour of focused painting!

Finally, position a bright lamp or natural light source directly above the workspace. Good lighting prevents eye fatigue and makes those tiny numbers much easier to spot, especially in darker paint sections.

7 Paint by Numbers Projects Perfect for Kids

Finding the right paint by numbers project transforms a simple activity into something your child will talk about for weeks. The secret is matching designs to their passions while considering their current skill level. Here are seven categories that consistently captivate young artists:

Animal portraits – tigers, elephants, and pandas with bold features and clear sections
Underwater scenes – colorful fish, friendly dolphins, and coral reef landscapes
Space adventures – rockets, planets, and astronauts exploring the cosmos
Woodland creatures – foxes, owls, and deer in forest settings
Fantasy characters – dragons, unicorns, and magical creatures that spark imagination
Seasonal themes – autumn leaves, winter snowscapes, or spring flower gardens
Vehicle collections – fire trucks, race cars, and construction equipment

Each category offers different engagement levels. Animals typically feature larger paint zones perfect for beginners, while space scenes often include intricate star patterns that challenge developing skills. Brands like Davincified offer extensive collections across all these project categories, with canvases shipped in protective tubes to ensure they arrive in perfect condition.

Smart Techniques for Successful Painting Sessions

Setting yourself up for painting success starts with strategic workspace organization. Arrange paint containers in numerical order so you can grab the right color without searching through dozens of tiny pots during focused work.

The single-color method is your efficiency secret. Find every spot marked with one number and paint them all before switching colors. This keeps your brush cleaner, builds momentum, and reduces time spent on cleanup. When changing colors, rinse thoroughly until water runs clear, then blot on paper towels.

Here’s a game-changer: start painting from the top corner and work downward to avoid smudging wet paint with your hand. This is especially important when working with kids who tend to rest their hands on the canvas while concentrating on detailed sections.

Break your canvas into distinct zones like finishing the sky first or completing one object at a time. Experienced paint by numbers providers like Davincified design their kits with clear numbering systems that make these techniques easier to implement. Keep sessions between 30 and 45 minutes to maintain fresh hands and sustained enthusiasm throughout your project.

Conclusion: Building Confidence One Brushstroke at a Time

Paint by numbers transforms the artistic journey from an intimidating challenge into an achievable adventure, offering benefits that extend far beyond the canvas. Your child gains patience through methodical work, focus during creative sessions, and that irreplaceable sense of accomplishment when stepping back to admire their finished masterpiece. These projects create meaningful screen-free family time where conversation flows naturally while hands stay busy.

The beauty of this medium lies in removing barriers that typically discourage beginners. There’s no “wrong” way to fill in numbered sections, making it perfect for children taking their first steps into creative expression. Note that quality providers like Davincified offer age-appropriate difficulty ratings to help parents select the perfect starting project for their child’s skill level.

Consider these ideas as your collection grows:

Frame completed works professionally to show they’re truly valued
Rotate pieces seasonally on a dedicated gallery wall
Give paintings as heartfelt gifts to grandparents or teachers

Start simple, match projects to your child’s current abilities, and gradually introduce more complexity. Through this gentle progression, you’ll witness their artistic confidence bloom naturally, one carefully painted section at a time.

This is a collaborative post.

create, life

Celebrating 200 years of the National Gallery

It’s not every day you get to be part of history,but being one of the National Gallery 200 Voices has felt exactly like that. Over the past year, I’ve had the immense privilege of helping celebrate 200 years of this incredible institution, reflecting on what art, creativity, and community mean today.

From wandering the echoing halls early in the morning (before the crowds arrive!) to chatting with fellow creatives and curators about their favourite works, every moment has been a joy. There’s something magical about standing in front of a painting you’ve seen a hundred times, and suddenly noticing the tiniest brushstroke that changes everything.

As the National Gallery turns 200, it’s not just about looking back, it’s about looking forward. I’ve loved seeing how the Gallery has embraced new voices, new perspectives, and the next generation of artists and storytellers. It feels hopeful and human, and I’m genuinely thrilled to be heading to the NG200 party to celebrate the next 200 years.

Of course, being me, I couldn’t resist having a peek at the Gallery shop before the big event – I’ve been eyeing up a few prints and notebooks (I always end up with another notebook). If you’re planning your own visit or just love beautiful art-inspired gifts, there’s a clever way to save a little when you shop online.

If you go via Capital One Shopping’s National Gallery page it shows any current offers or discount codes available for the National Gallery Shop. It’s one of those browser tools that automatically checks if there’s a voucher code floating around, so you don’t have to go searching yourself, quite handy if, like me, you’re easily distracted by the art prints and tote bags!

I’ll share more photos from the celebrations over on @incredibusy

This is a collaborative post.

crafts

Ways to Effectively Scale your Small Business

If you are trying to build a start-up, then you will know how important it is to try to scale it over time. If you don’t, then you may find that you end up stagnating, and this could have huge consequences for you overall. If you want to help yourself here, then you need to know that growing your small business will take time and money, but there are things you can do to try and speed things up a little.

Do your Research

The first thing you need to do is your research. This not only allows you to better understand your customers, but it also helps you to gain insight into who your target market is and how you can effectively use your ads. This is a great way for you to let your brand grow, and it also allows you to change so you can run your business in the most efficient way possible. Don’t forget to try to research your competitors as well. Knowing what their strengths are, as well as their weaknesses, is the best way for you to drive your decisions, and it also allows you to scale your company to the best of your ability.
Build a Sales Funnel

Another thing you need to do is try to build a sales funnel. This is one of the best ways for you to take your business to that next level. As a general rule, your sales funnel should be a way for you to document your customer journey. When someone finds you, they are essentially at the top of the funnel, but at the same time, you need to find ways to try to move people down a well. This can include offering them a discount or even trying to find ways to get their contact information so you can get updates on your business. Things like this can make a huge difference, and you would be surprised at how much it could help you to stand out in the future. Depending on the type of business you run, you can also look into POS solutions, so you can bring the final stage of the funnel right to your customers. You can find a POS solution for gyms online, for example, showing how there are no limits.

Increase Retention

Finding ways to increase your customer retention is so important. You also need to find ways to have them come back time and time again. When you increase customer retention, you are essentially finding ways to increase loyalty, which will help you to build sales moving forward. Considering it costs way more to get a new customer than it does to keep one that you have, thinking about things like this is generally a great way for you to keep your business moving forward, which is great. If you can use a CRM system, then this will also help you move in the right direction, and it will give your business a big boost overall, so be mindful of that if you can.

This is a collaborative post.

life, teenage reviews

How to Buy Confetti Cannons in Bulk: The Complete Guide (2025)

Confetti cannons are one of the easiest ways to turn any event into a moment, weddings, brand activations, parties, concerts, festivals, New Year’s Eve… you name it.
But buying confetti cannons in bulk requires a bit of knowledge so you don’t overspend or end up with low-quality cannons that barely pop.

Here’s everything you need to know before placing that big order.

1. Understand the Types of Confetti Cannons

Not all cannons fire the same way. The three main types are:

🎉 Compressed Air Cannons (Most Popular)

Safe, powerful, and reliable
Single-use
Great for weddings, events, and shows
Range: 5-12 metres

💥 CO2 Cannons (Pro-Grade)

Used in concerts, clubs, and festivals
Requires CO2 tanks
Fires multiple bursts
More expensive and requires trained operators

🔌 Electric Cannons (Reloadable)

Require a firing base
Perfect for synchronised effects
Ideal for production crews or frequent events

2. Choose the Confetti Type

The confetti you load (or buy pre-loaded) matters just as much as the cannon.

Metallic Confetti

Shiny, reflective, eye-catching
Best for nightclubs, concerts, NYE
Heavier → falls faster, creates a “rainfall” look

Tissue Confetti

Light, slow-falling, great for photos
Perfect for weddings and daytime events
Biodegradable options available

Shape Options:

Rectangles (most common)
Hearts (weddings, proposals)
Stars (concerts, birthdays)
Custom shapes (brands, logos)

3. Decide on Size & Range

Bulk confetti cannons typically come in:

20–30cm (small, close-range indoor use)
40–50cm (medium, versatile for most events)
80cm (large, powerful, venue-sized bursts)

The bigger the cannon, the higher the firing distance and the more confetti packed inside.

4. Check Safety & Certification

Confetti cannons seem simple, but you still need to ensure:

CE certification
Non-flammable confetti
Safe pressure limits
Clear usage instructions
No pyrotechnic elements (unless purposely chosen)

For venues, some require proof that cannons are air-powered only, so check before buying.

5. Pick Biodegradable (especially if outdoors)

Outdoor venues increasingly require biodegradable confetti. Look for:

Tissue paper (most eco-friendly)
Rice paper confetti (premium but dissolves quickly)
Avoid PVC metallic unless used indoors only

Not only is it more sustainable, but it prevents cleanup issues and potential fines.

6. Compare Bulk Pricing & Quantities

Typical pack sizes:

6-pack
12-pack
24-pack
48-pack
100+ wholesale cartons

Average bulk pricing (varies by supplier):

Small cannons: £2–£4 each
Medium cannons: £3–£6 each
Large cannons: £6–£10 each

Buying 48+ packs can drop the price significantly.

If you’re supplying events or doing regular activations, buying by the carton is the most economical.

7. Decide: Pre-Filled or Empty Cannons

Bulk buyers usually choose between:

Pre-Filled Cannons

Ready to use
Perfect for weddings/events
Available in themed colours (gold, silver, rainbow, white)

Empty Cannons (DIY Filling)

Cheapest option
Ideal for branded confetti
Perfect for event companies/custom effects
Requires labour to fill

If branding or colour consistency matters, empty cannons + custom confetti is the best path.

8. Choose a Reliable Supplier

Quality varies massively in the confetti cannon world. Look for suppliers who offer:

Honest firing distance information
Customer reviews
High-res product photos
Safety sheets
Video demonstrations
Fast shipping for last-minute events
Custom colour options

For very large orders (500+), factories in Europe, China, and Turkey often provide custom packaging and colours.

9. Think About Cleanup

Confetti cannons are fun… cleaning them up isn’t.

Choose:

Tissue for slow-fall, easy cleanup
Biodegradable for outdoor
Avoid metallic outdoors
Bigger pieces → easier to gather

If cleanup is not feasible, go for streamers instead of confetti, they fire far and are extremely easy to collect.

10. Order Samples Before Committing

Especially for event companies or brands ordering 200+ units.

Test for:

Firing strength
Consistency
Confetti fall speed
Colour accuracy
Safety seals

A single cheap sample can save you from buying hundreds of weak cannons that barely puff.

Final Thoughts

Buying confetti cannons in bulk is easy once you know what you’re looking for: choose the right cannon type, confetti style, safety rating, and supplier. Be thoughtful when you make your purchase, think of the environmental impact and if the cannon is reusable. By understanding how size, materials, and bulk pricing work, you can get premium cannons without breaking the budget.

This is a collaborative post.

create, key stage 2, key stage 3, kids

Why Play Is Still the Most Effective Training Tool for Children

Child’s play may look simple as an observer, however beneath the surface, it’s one of the most powerful learning tools children have. Long before worksheets, structured lessons or formal programs enter the picture, children naturally use play to understand the world around them. And even as educational methods evolve, play remains the foundation of healthy development.

Whether the goal is strengthening communication skills, building confidence or helping your child become the best version of themselves, play provides an environment where learning feels natural, joyful and meaningful.

Play creates a safe space for learning and experimentation

Children learn best when they feel comfortable, supported and free to take risks. Play offers exactly that. In a playful setting, children don’t fear mistakes. They try new things simply because they’re curious. When a child builds a tower that collapses or experiments with new words during pretend play, they’re strengthening critical cognitive and emotional skills without the pressure of perfection.

This sense of safety is especially important for children who struggle with communication or confidence. Whether a child is navigating tricky social interactions or developing language skills, play provides room to explore, imitate and practice. It’s why a child speech therapist often incorporates games, toys and pretend scenarios into sessions. Children stay engaged, and the learning process becomes intuitive instead of stressful.

When kids play, they’re not just passing time. They’re developing resilience, problem-solving abilities, emotional regulation and curiosity. These core skills form the foundation for later academic success and personal growth.

Play naturally encourages communication and language development

One of the most powerful outcomes of play is its impact on communication. During play, children are exposed to new words, concepts, routines and social interactions, often without even realising they’re learning. Whether they’re narrating a pretend cooking session, negotiating rules in a game or explaining their ideas to a parent, play stimulates language in authentic ways.

This is why many therapists and educators use toys, puppets, interactive games and storytelling as tools to build vocabulary and sentence structure. A child might practice turn-taking during a board game or learn descriptive words while playing with sensory materials. Because the context is fun and engaging, the learning sticks.

For families working with a child therapist, play becomes an extension of therapy at home. Parents can reinforce skills through simple routines like narrating actions, labeling objects, asking open-ended questions and joining in their child’s imaginative worlds. Learning through play doesn’t require complicated setups; it simply needs presence and interaction.

Play supports emotional intelligence and social skills

Emotional development happens through lived experiences, and play provides those experiences in abundance. When children take part in cooperative games, pretend scenarios or group activities, they learn how to share, compromise, self-advocate and recognise emotions in themselves and others.

Pretend play is especially powerful. When children act out roles like teacher, doctor, or parent, they explore empathy and perspective-taking. They learn how to express feelings, solve conflicts and navigate relationships in a low-pressure environment.

For children who find social interactions challenging, structured play with guidance from parents or professionals offers essential support. Activities like turn-taking games, role-play or cooperative building projects give them opportunities to practice social skills that become invaluable later in school, friendships and everyday life.

Play strengthens cognitive skills without feeling like work

Cognitive development happens most effectively when children are actively engaged. Play encourages curiosity, exploration and experimentation, all of which drive early learning.

Through play, children strengthen skills such as spatial awareness through building activities, and problem-solving by figuring out how pieces fit.

These skills translate into improved academic performance later. Children who play regularly tend to be more flexible thinkers, better problem-solvers and more confident learners.

Parents can support this by offering accessible materials like blocks, art supplies, and pretend-play kits which allow children to lead the activity.

Play helps children become their best selves

At its core, play helps your child become the best version of themselves. It nurtures strengths, encourages independence and fosters confidence. Instead of pushing children into overly structured learning environments too early, play allows them to learn on their own timeline and in their own way.

In short, play isn’t just for fun. It’s the foundation of healthy childhood development and one of the most effective tools for teaching language, social skills and emotional resilience. By creating space for play, offering gentle guidance and encouraging curiosity-driven learning, families can support children in ways that feel natural and uplifting. In a world filled with structured programs and high expectations, play remains the most powerful pathway to growth.

This is a collaborative post, which allows me to continue creating organic content both here and on incredibusy.com

crafts, education, life, Uncategorized

Creative Projects That Help Children Cope With Family Transitions

Family transitions such as separation or divorce often leave children with feelings they struggle to express. The uncertainty of moving between homes, changing routines, and adjusting to new dynamics can make it difficult for them to put emotions into words. Parents may worry about how to support their children during these times, especially when conversations about change feel overwhelming.

Salt Dough Leaves — *making salt dough leaves is fun*

Creative activities provide a safe outlet for children to process their experiences. Art and craft projects give them tangible ways to show how they feel and can encourage communication in a relaxed setting. These approaches help children manage emotions and give parents opportunities to connect with them in meaningful ways.

Why Creative Activities Help Children Navigate Change

Children often lack the vocabulary to describe complex emotions fully. Craft-based activities allow them to communicate feelings through colour, shapes, and textures. A drawing or collage may reveal sadness or confusion in ways spoken words cannot. These projects offer comfort and allow children to share their inner world without pressure.

Having a physical creation to look at helps make emotions less abstract. For example, a child may struggle to explain what it feels like to live between two homes, but they might use drawings or patterns to represent the experience. Families also benefit from professional guidance, with support available from Manchester’s specialist family law firm when legal arrangements become part of the conversation. In other areas, parents may rely on divorce solicitors Leeds, family lawyers Leeds, or divorce lawyers Leeds to ensure arrangements are consistent and child-focused.

Emotion Jars for Understanding Feelings

Emotion jars are a simple yet effective way to help children express their feelings. Families can use jars or clear containers of coloured sand, glitter, or beads. Each colour represents a specific feeling, such as yellow for happiness or blue for sadness.

Add beads to your emotion jar — *Add home-made beads to your emotion jar*

The activity begins with a conversation about emotions. Children select colours to match their feelings and layer them into the jar. Over time, the jar becomes a reflection of their changing emotional state. Parents can also create their own jars, showing children that adults experience complex emotions too.

Regular check-ins using the jars make it easier to discuss feelings. Asking children which colour stands out most that day can open the door to conversations about worries, hopes, or frustrations. For parents navigating legal changes, advice from divorce lawyers in Leeds can provide reassurance, helping them keep the focus on supporting their children.

Family Change Calendars and Routine Boards

Visual reminders such as calendars and boards provide structure and stability. Families can use colourful designs, stickers, or symbols to mark when children will be at each parent’s home, along with school activities or special events. This clear visual plan helps children understand routines and reduces anxiety about what comes next.

Children can personalise these calendars by choosing colours or symbols for each household, making them feel part of the process. This not only supports organisation but also helps children feel more secure about upcoming changes.

Calendars should remain flexible to adapt to evolving arrangements. Parents can involve children in updating them, turning changes into shared activities rather than sudden surprises. Family lawyers Leeds and divorce solicitors Leeds often highlight the importance of consistency in routines, and tools like calendars help put this into practice in everyday life.

Memory and Connection Books for Stability

Memory or connection books allow children to maintain bonds with both parents. Families can use a scrapbook, photo album, or notebook to include pictures, drawings, messages, and small keepsakes. These books can travel between households, helping children feel close to both parents even when apart.

Children may find it easier to share their thoughts and experiences by writing or drawing in the book, especially if direct conversations are difficult. Parents can use the book to leave notes of encouragement, ensuring children always feel connected.

Divorce solicitors in Leeds often advise parents to create opportunities for children to maintain healthy bonds with both households. A connection book is one way to make this tangible, reinforcing stability during uncertain times.

Worry Monsters and Feeling Friends

Crafting worry monsters gives children a creative way to release negative feelings. By sewing or crafting a soft toy with a large mouth, children can write their worries on slips of paper and place them inside. This symbolic act of letting go helps reduce stress and makes emotions easier to manage.

For children who prefer imaginative play, puppets or “feeling friends” offer another route for expression. Acting out scenarios through role-play allows children to process difficult situations in a safe, controlled environment. These activities promote problem-solving and communication skills, giving parents insight into their child’s concerns.

Parents managing family transitions often turn to divorce solicitors Leeds or family lawyers Leeds to resolve legal issues while simultaneously using creative tools at home to protect their children’s emotional well-being. Combining practical and emotional support ensures families remain resilient during change.

Giving Children Creative Tools for Emotional Growth

Creative projects are more than activities; they are tools that support children’s development during times of transition. When children feel secure enough to express themselves, they gain confidence and resilience. Parents who encourage crafts as part of family life give children safe spaces to explore emotions while building lasting bonds.

Family lawyers Leeds and divorce lawyers Leeds often stress that supporting a child’s emotional needs is just as important as legal arrangements. Projects like emotion jars, calendars, and memory books complement these legal frameworks, creating stability inside and outside the home.

Helping Families Move Forward With Confidence

Family changes are never easy, but children can adapt successfully when given the right support. Creative activities give them healthy ways to process emotions, reduce stress, and feel reassured during uncertain times. Parents who invest in these practices often find that communication improves, relationships strengthen, and resilience grows.

Alongside creative strategies, professional guidance ensures families remain supported on all fronts. Parents can combine legal clarity with emotional care through divorce solicitors Leeds, family lawyers Leeds, divorce lawyers Leeds, or Manchester’s specialist family law firm. This holistic approach helps families navigate change while building stronger foundations for the future.

Building Stability Through Creativity and Support

Supporting children during family transitions requires both emotional and practical strategies. Creative projects give children safe and engaging ways to express themselves, while legal guidance provides clarity for parents. By combining these tools, families create an environment where children feel secure, valued, and understood.

This is a collaborative post.

create, life

Colour Lover YELLOW

Colour Lover YELLOW

Hello – My name is Ali Clifford and I go by the name of @incredibusy, and I rather like the colour YELLOW.

I think this colour penchant is quite a recent phenomena – if you look through my instagram feed, it seems to be somehow dominated with brights, and spots of yellows – I don’t really think it was intentional, it just seems to evolved that way!
We even had a ‘sogoodineveryway‘ theme a couple of weeks ago! #sgiew_YELLOW click here to read about that.

When I was a child, with red hair and freckles, my mother would tell me, “oh no Alison, you CAN’T wear yellow! It just doesn’t suit you….” so I started rebelling… From my eyeshadow at art school (seriously, not a good look, like a gone-wrong watermelon) to the frocks I wear today.
I’ve all sorts of outfits, and accessories in yellow now, and even have a small collection of yellow shoes.

I’d LIKE to be maybe someone who wears more muted colours – I love the style of friends like Ali Dover – we have similar colouring (oh, and the same name), and she just always looks so fabulous – denims, and stripes, straight out of the Toast catalogue… I do try, but the wabi-sabi in me means I’m better off multi-coloured (and a bit scruffy…)

My favourite flower in the garden happens to be yellow FORSYTHIA – to look out through the kitchen window on a rainy day and see that Forsythia bush shining like the absent sunshine, really lifts my spirits too.

Laying on a carpet of grass looking up at the blue blue skies… (#nofilter!) We have enjoyed our half term break; but it’s got us thinking about the SUMMER (and getting away from ✈️ flight paths!) – any top tips for festivals this year?? Late summer September looks like a weekend at the @goodlifeexperience – and we have August covered off with a week at the @fforestgather summer camp, a festival that’s not a festival (see blog link in profile for more on that!) but what about you lot? Anything early summer festival-wise we should check out? Anyway how about we celebrate the impending SUMMER with a new #sgiew hashtag? If you’d like to join in next week; this is a “heads up” that we will be looking for your #sgiew_goodlife photos; so tag us on your festival pics; school fête photos; tea in the garden; bunting on your tents; and how about we throw in a PRIZE TOO? We have two adult tickets with camping @goodlifeexperience worth £198 up for grabs – get tagging! Use #sgiew_goodlife to join in #sgiew #blueskies #laburnum #bunting #teainthepark #teaparty #festival #summerfete #belltent #greatoutdoors #goodlife #summer #simpleandstill #slowliving_nurture #underthefloralspell #theartofslowliving #aslowmoment

A photo posted by Ali Clifford (@incredibusy) on Jun 4, 2016 at 2:26am PDT

Evening sunshines! 💛 Finally finished our latest mid-century-modern upcycle project with the help of @madebymrsm and her AMAZING fabric design… *windows*. Two #found chairs given some love. We appeared on #periscope today sharing this project and asking whether to chalkpaint the back-rest, or legs, and the result is just divine! What do you think? We have three further chairs, should we leave them unpainted or try yellow this time? #wildandwolf #retro telephone prop courtesy @4_living http://www.4living.co.uk/ Oh I have 25% OFF for you until Sunday MIDNIGHT with discount code *incredibusy* Colours: 💚peacock green 💛English mustard (seen here) 👤black 💙petrol blue 😺concrete grey #midcenturymodern #upcycle #AnnieSloan #ParisGrey #chalkpaint #london_by_incredibusy #homedecor #interior #design #capturingcolour #epig #abmlifeiscolorful #DScolor #yellow #retrophone #midcentury #textiles #upholstery #upcycling

A photo posted by Ali Clifford (@incredibusy) on Sep 15, 2015 at 10:44am PDT

I’ve even started painting furniture in tones of yellow and grey, that combination really works well for me, you can watch me making some desk stationery below in some beautiful fabric by my friend Kate madebymrsm – (oh, and I appear to have a yellow telephone prop too… guilty!) And – really – you have to check out Kate’s hashtag – #100daysofyellowstuff

And finally, I’d like to give a big shoutout to instagram, for helping me find my creativity again – after a long absence from my art school hobby of photography, I’m back in the game – finding the love of yellow peppers – probably my biggest ‘like’ on instagram to date!

Thank you Becky, for the prompt, loving all of the colour stories over on colourlover.co.uk!

kids, life

Can You Decorate Your Home With Your Kids’ Safety In Mind? Yes!

Many parents often worry about the scrapes their kids can get into. Usually this worry revolves around what goes on outside the home, but in some cases, the worry is caused by being in the home itself.

Your child may be bruised and bumped from running into things, door edges, low shelves and stairs, you’re definitely going to worry about how careful they can be. But if you’re a parent who has cause to worry about these things, we’ve got some good news for you: you can prepare and decorate your home with your child’s safety in mind. Here are some easy ways to get started.

Place Wall Decor Higher Than You Usually Would

You don’t have to place it all the way up the wall where no one can see it, but think about placing it around two to three inches higher than you usually would. This can help to ensure your kids can’t pull things down, even when they’re standing on the sofa or a stool to reach them.

After all, even when a shelf is just a couple of inches higher, it’ll be totally out of reach. And if you maintain this same height boundary throughout the whole property, it won’t look out of place in any one of your rooms.

Reinforce the Staircase

This is where you can think about your staircase railing and how safe it is when kids run up and down the stairs. Even when you tell the kids to take their time, they’re likely to still rush around and be unsafe on the stairs. But adding a stairgate, and replacing the railing will minimise accidents here.

Indeed, using a material like laminated glass will not only give your staircase a more sheen and stylish look, but the material is a lot more resistant to being bumped into, slid down, and being scraped by all kinds of toys that could get knocked against it. All of these things are quite likely to happen when there are kids in the house.

Keep the Floor Clear

There’s a reason only museums and art galleries have big, breakable vases in the middle of rooms… If you tried to do the same thing in your own house, it wouldn’t take five minutes for something to get knocked over, smashed, and stepped on.

Keep this in mind when you’re trying to come up with a suitable, child friendly layout for your rooms. You don’t want them running into things and getting hurt, or when your children are roughhousing together, for someone to get knocked into something sharp and start crying.

And yes, even the edge of the coffee table counts here! The same goes for any shelving units and side tables too!

Decorating your home with your kids’ safety in mind is totally possible. You just need to have a little forethought over what your kids are likely to get up to and how you can decorate around that.

This is a collaborative post.

father's day, google+ hangouts, kids, monster

Father’s Day Cork Printable

A nice quick and easy Father’s Day Monster Truck card for you to download, print off, and add your own touch with these slices of cork… any excuse for another glass of wine eh?!

Simple to do… take a couple of different sized corks, I used a champagne cork, and a wine cork…

Using a carving knife (careful!) slice the corks into Monster Truck ‘wheels’ and stick onto the card, one for the back, one for the front wheel…

Click here for our other VERY popular Jigsaw piece printable Father’s Day card, so you can have one of each!

click here to print the Monster Truck> Printable www_KidsChaos Cork card FathersDay

We had previously used slices of corks for wheels on our bi-plane pictured here…click the image to read more about THAT craft too!

I hung out on Google+ for a bit of a vlog… with some craft buddies to share these cork crafts, hosted by the ever lovely Maggy from Red Ted Art who showed us several cork crafts, some CUTE Knights and Santas including printed bunting in her book. Pop back later for more links to Anthea, Kelly, Liz, The Fairy and the Frog, and Rebecca.
Are you on Google+ Follow me here, and say hello, and I’ll add you back to my circles.

Oh, and I’m on twitter.com/MoreKidsChaos too… Erm, and funnily enough on Facebookand Pinterest! Pop over to say hello x Like it? Pin it!
Ali also writes over on AGreenerLifeforus.com