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Nov 05
Love0
child making things

The gift of extra time

By Education, environment, family, Forest School, Green
by Susan Luxford, Timeless Toys, Hove

Why older children need play more than ever

Summers have been dominated by two viral trends over the last couple of years – “kid rotting” and “feral child summer”. If those terms feel a little provocative, a more comfortable description might be “slow parenting summer”.

Whatever we call it, the idea behind the trend is the same – parents are recognising that children need more unstructured play. More time to themselves and less scheduled activities.

For previous generations, play was largely child-initiated and open-ended. Today, however, even play can become adult-directed, structured and over-scheduled. And there is growing awareness of what children may be losing when every hour has a purpose and the impact this is having on children’s physical, cognitive, social and emotional wellbeing.

But as the autumn chill arrives and thoughts turn towards Christmas, a different kind of parental pressure inevitably creeps in.

Our instinct can shift from allowing children to explore freely to helping them ‘grow up’. For children between six and eleven, in particular, the perceived need for age-appropriate, educational or technologically advanced gifts can quietly replace something they still desperately need – the freedom of play.

I hear it often: “That’s too young for you.” “That’s not for your age.” “They’re five – it will be too easy for them.” Or, perhaps most revealingly “Does it actually do anything?”

As adults, we tend to view toys through a rigid, logical lens. We want to understand what something is for. We look at the age, the instructions, the skills it develops and, increasingly, whether it ‘does’ something.

But children don’t necessarily see toys that way. The less a toy tells a child what to do, the more room there is for the child to decide.

There is also a very real fear among parents that their children will be left behind if they don’t have constant access to technology, or that we aren’t pushing them hard enough.

That anxiety can drive us towards toys with instructions to follow, skills to master and an obvious purpose that adults can understand.

But perhaps we need to ask a different question. Not, “What does this toy teach?” But, “What could my child imagine with it?”

The secret world of older play

When an older child plays, they are often processing life.

As school becomes more demanding and friendships become more complicated, children encounter social pressures and emotions that they are not always equipped to articulate. Play can provide a private, analogue space in which to explore those experiences safely.

This is where toys can become so much more than entertainment.

Take the beautifully crafted, whimsical world of Maileg, which we proudly stock. To an adult, a tiny linen mouse tucked into a matchbox bed might simply be a beautiful keepsake.

To a nine-year-old navigating the heart-breaking complexities of friendship groups, that mouse can become a confidante.

By arranging miniature furniture, creating scenes and acting out fictional arguments, exclusions or reconciliations between characters, a child can explore feelings that may be difficult to put into words. They can experiment with different outcomes, revisit situations and regain a sense of control over a world that can sometimes feel overwhelming or confusing.

It is imagination, storytelling and emotional processing – disguised as play.

And that need doesn’t disappear simply because a child is now six, seven or nine.

In fact, older children may need imaginative play precisely because their world is becoming more complicated.

Preserving the magic this christmas

The unhurried freedom of a ‘slow parenting summer’ doesn’t have to disappear when the seasons change.

We can preserve that independent, imaginative spirit through the winter months by giving older children something surprisingly simple – permission to keep playing.

This Christmas, perhaps we can resist the urge to ‘age up’ our children too quickly.

Rather than choosing gifts because they look impressive, complicated or technologically advanced, look for toys that offer narrative depth, tactile experiences and plenty of room for imagination.

Because growing up is inevitable.

Let’s give children the gift of extra time – time to imagine, time to create and, most importantly, time to simply be children who play.

Susan Luxford runs Timeless Toys 100 Portland Road, Hove. @timelesstoysUK

This lovely shop is open from 10am to 5pm Tuesday to Saturday. Please feel free to pop in to the shop or visit www.timeless-toys.co.uk

Nov 01
Love0
winter wonder

Winter wonders

By Early Years, environment, Forest School, fun for children, Mental health, Wellbeing
by Lucy Owen-Collins MBE, Bee in the Woods Kindergartens

Why the best gifts of childhood can’t be wrapped

At this time of year, it’s easy to get caught up in the pressure to buy more and do more. There are present lists, gift guides, stocking fillers and a steady stream of Instagram stories telling us what our children need to make the season more magical.

But when we think back to the things we loved most about our own childhood, I wonder how many of them came from a shop?

Perhaps it was walking home in the dark and seeing everyone’s Christmas lights. Making something at the kitchen table. The smell of something baking. Building a den. Staying in pyjamas all day. Or simply having the people we loved around us with nowhere else they needed to be.

The things that make childhood rich are often very simple: time, play, connection and a little bit of wonder.

The gift of time

Children live in a busy world. Nursery or school, clubs, appointments, errands and the everyday rush of getting everyone where they need to be. The festive season can easily add another layer of busyness.

Yet children need time that isn’t organised for them. Time to become absorbed in something, to follow an idea, to get bored and work out what to do next. Play doesn’t always happen instantly. Sometimes children need to potter for a while before the really interesting stuff begins.

The winter holidays can offer a rare opportunity to slow the rhythm of family life. We don’t necessarily need to fill that space. A morning with nowhere to be can be a gift in itself.

The gift of play

It is tempting to think that good play requires good toys. In reality, children are remarkably good at finding fun play in ordinary things.

A cardboard box can become a sleigh, a house or a spaceship. Sticks can become a campfire, tiny people or ingredients for woodland soup.

Blankets over the table become a den. Mud, water, stones, pinecones and leaves offer possibilities that no adult has predetermined.

This kind of open-ended play matters because the child, rather than the toy, has to provide the ideas.

That doesn’t mean toys are bad, of course. There is something wonderful about choosing a present you know a child will love. But perhaps alongside asking, “What can I buy them?” , we can also ask, “What might give them more opportunities to play?”

Sometimes the answer is simply time, space and permission to make a mess.

The gift of nature

Winter can make getting outdoors feel like more of an effort. There are coats to find, gloves that mysteriously disappear and somebody will almost certainly announce that they need the toilet just as everyone is finally ready.

But once we get outside, winter has its own kind of magic.

Puddles become ice. Breath turns to clouds. Bare trees reveal nests hidden all summer. Mud freezes and crunches beneath our feet. There are tracks to discover, berries to spot and, if we are lucky, frost or snow to transform a familiar place completely.

Children notice these tiny seasonal changes when we give them time to look.

Outdoor adventures don’t have to be elaborate either.

A ten-minute torch walk after tea can feel enormously exciting to a four-year-old. So can drinking hot chocolate outside, jumping in puddles or visiting the same tree each week to see what has changed.

The important thing isn’t how far we go. It is that we go together.

The gift of connection

Perhaps this is the one children need most.

Connection happens in small moments: stirring a cake mixture together, reading the same story for the hundredth time, collecting sticks, chatting on a walk or listening properly to a very long explanation about a particularly interesting stone.

Through these ordinary moments, children build their sense of belonging, security and confidence.

And connection is not only between people. Childhood is also a time when relationships with places are formed. The woods we visit again and again, the park where we know the best climbing tree, the beach where we collect treasures. Familiar places with people we love become woven into our memories.

A little winter wonder

If you’re looking for things to do together this winter, they needn’t cost very much at all.

Make natural decorations. Collect fallen twigs, pinecones, seed heads and leaves and turn them into stars, wreaths, garlands or decorations.

Go on a winter treasure hunt. Can you find something prickly, something smooth, something red, something tiny, something that smells interesting and something an animal might eat?

Take a torch walk. Explore somewhere familiar after dark. Notice how different everything feels and listen for sounds you might miss during the day.

Make a winter potion. A bowl, water and a wooden spoon are all you need. Add leaves, mud, herbs, sticks or anything else children discover outside. There is no correct recipe.

Start a tiny winter tradition

A Boxing Day walk, hot chocolate outdoors, making decorations from nature or an annual torch walk.

Traditions don’t have to be grand to become precious.

The festive season with children can come with a great deal of pressure to make everything magical. But perhaps we don’t need to manufacture quite so much magic for them.

Children are very good at finding it for themselves.

It is there in the frozen puddle, the cardboard box, the flickering fire, the stick that becomes a wand and the familiar hand tucked into theirs on a cold winter walk.

This season, alongside the presents we wrap, perhaps we can leave a little more space for the things that can’t be wrapped at all.

Time. Play. Nature. Connection. They might just be the gifts our children remember.

Bee in the Woods Kindergarten is a woodland preschool and community Forest School for three to seven year olds, based in Portslade and Stanmer Park in Brighton.

For more information www.beeinthewoods.co.uk

Jul 18
Love0
girls sport

Sport – so much more than just winning

By Education, environment, fun for children, Sport
by Dennis Smith, Sports coach and mentor to young athletes

Helping to build confidence, character and a love of learning

For parents of children aged eight to 11, sport often becomes an important and exciting part of family life. Whether it is football, swimming, tennis or athletics, these early years are not about producing elite performers – they are about building strong foundations for life.

At this age, children are developing not just physically, but emotionally and mentally. Sport, when approached in the right way, can play a powerful role in shaping confidence, resilience and positive attitudes towards both school and life.

More than just winning

It is natural for children to enjoy winning and competition can be healthy. However, the real value of sport at this age lies in what children learn along the way.

Through regular participation, children begin to develop:

• Confidence from trying new skills.

• Resilience when things don’t go their way.

• Social skills through teamwork and communication.

• Emotional control in both success and disappointment.

Research shows that sport supports not only physical health but also mental wellbeing, helping to reduce stress and build self-esteem in young people. For young children, these benefits are far more important than results or rankings.

The parent’s role: Quietly powerful

Parents play a crucial role during these formative years.

Children often look to their parents first after a game or training session. A simple comment can shape how they feel about their performance – and themselves.

The most effective approach is surprisingly simple:

• Focus on effort, not outcome.

• Encourage enjoyment, not pressure.

• Ask supportive questions like: “Did you enjoy it?” or “What did you learn today?”

Studies show that children value parental support, but the manner of involvement matters greatly. Positive encouragement helps children enjoy sport more, while too much pressure can reduce confidence and enjoyment.

Balancing sport and school work

One common concern for parents is whether sport takes time away from academic school work.

In reality, the opposite is often true. Sport helps children develop habits that transfer directly into school life:

• Concentration

• Discipline

• Time management

• Goal setting

There is growing evidence that children involved in sport often perform better academically and develop stronger cognitive skills. The key is balance – ensuring that sport supports, rather than competes with, schoolwork.

Building confidence that lasts

Between the ages of eight and 11, children begin to form their sense of identity. Sport can play a major role in shaping how they see themselves.

A child who feels:

• Supported

• Encouraged

• Free to make mistakes

…is far more likely to develop lasting confidence.

Importantly, sport should remain a positive experience. Research highlights that children are more likely to continue in sport – and gain long-term benefits – when they feel enjoyment, belonging and support from both coaches and parents.

Avoiding common pitfalls

Modern youth sport can sometimes become overly focused on performance, selection and competition.

For younger children, this can lead to:

• Anxiety

• Loss of enjoyment

• Early dropout

The most successful long-term approach is to keep sport:

• Fun

• Varied

• Development-focused

Children at this age do not need early specialisation – they benefit from trying different activities and developing a wide range of skills.

A simple guiding principle

If there is one principle parents can follow, it is this: At this age sport should build the child – not test the child.

When children feel supported, enjoy what they are doing and are allowed to grow at their own pace, they develop not only as young athletes but as confident, balanced individuals.

The habits, attitudes and confidence built during these years often stay with children for life.

As parents, the goal is not to raise the next professional athlete – it is to help children develop:

• A love of activity

• Strong character

• A positive mindset towards challenges

Get that right, and both sport and school work will benefit.

Dennis Smith is a former Head of Physical Education and sports coach who has worked with young athletes for many years. He now provides guidance for parents supporting children in sport. For further information please email: scholarlyachievement@gmail.com

Jul 02
Love0
girl ice cream

Little explorers, big adventures Feeding your toddler well this summer

By Childcare and Nannying, environment, Food & Eating
by Ed van der Lande, founder of More Toddler Meals

Ah, summer. You’ve planned the perfect family holiday. Sun cream packed, travel cot assembled, toddler outfit game strong. You picture lazy lunches, new flavours, perhaps even a child who eats their vegetables without negotiating.

Reality, however, tends to arrive with a major meltdown at a motorway services.

Because here’s the thing, nobody tells you about summer with toddlers: the heat, the disrupted routine, the sheer relentless novelty of it all plays absolute havoc with mealtimes. Picture the child who reliably ate their pasta on a Tuesday evening at home – in a holiday cottage with a two-ring hob – an entirely different creature.

As a dad of two toddlers, founder of More Toddler Meals and former Army Officer, I’ve spent a lot of time thinking about how to feed small children well when you’re far from your own kitchen. Here’s what’s actually worked for us.

Tip: Don’t abandon your standards just because you’re away

It’s tempting, when you’re tired and the supermarket options are limited, to reach for whatever is quick and familiar. And yes, sometimes that’s fine. But the meals your toddler eats in their first few years genuinely shape the eater they’ll become; the textures they accept, the flavours they enjoy, the breadth of what ends up on their plate at age five.

Summer doesn’t have to mean a nutritional holiday. With a little forward planning it can be a brilliant window for adventurous eating. New places, a relaxed pace and a picnic blanket is a surprisingly powerful combination for getting a toddler to try something new.

Tip: Think about texture (it really matters)

One thing I feel strongly about: toddlers need something to actually bite into. An over-reliance on smooth pouches, convenient though they are, can genuinely slow down early chewing development. Chunky, textured food builds oral motor skills and food confidence in ways that purée simply doesn’t.

At home this comes naturally when you’re cooking from scratch. When away, it takes a bit more intention. Look for options that offer real texture, not just something to squeeze out of a packet.

Tip: Keep it savoury

Summer brings an abundance of naturally sweet things; ice creams, fruit, yoghurt pouches and, while there’s nothing wrong with any of those, a strong preference for sweetness built up early on can make savoury foods a hard sell later.

Aiming for a proper savoury meal as the anchor of the day, even on holiday, is a simple habit that pays dividends long after the tan has faded.

Tip: Pack like you’re going on expedition

There’s an old military principle: proper planning prevents poor performance. It absolutely applies to toddler mealtimes too!

Our summer adventure food checklist:

• Flask of hot water – more useful than you think, even in the height of summer.

• Snacks beyond rice cakes – fruit, cheese, savoury bites.

• A proper meal option that doesn’t need refrigeration.

• Water bottles – hydration drops off fast in the heat.

• Spoon, bowl and wipes (always the wipes).

Fresh air and excitement dramatically increase toddler appetites. Pack more than you think you’ll need. Rationing oat bars on a beach is nobody’s idea of a good holiday.

Tip: Let the setting do the work

A toddler who flatly refuses pasta at the kitchen table will sometimes eat the exact same thing enthusiastically from a plastic pot on a picnic blanket. The novelty of eating outside, in a different place, with different sounds around them, is genuinely powerful.

Use it. A foreign supermarket, a farmers’ market, a new café. Frame it as an adventure rather than a mealtime and you’ll often be surprised what they’ll try.

Final thoughts: Good food travels

Feeding your toddler well over the summer isn’t about perfect picnics or colour-coordinated lunchboxes.

It’s about:

• Planning ahead so you’re not making desperate decisions when everyone is tired and hungry.

• Keeping texture and variety in the mix even when you’re away from your own kitchen.

• Not letting convenience become the enemy of quality.

Some days will feel effortlessly wholesome. Others will end with emergency snacks in the car and the quiet acceptance that you did your best. Both are completely fine.

The meals your toddler eats this summer won’t just fuel their adventures – they’ll help shape the eater they become. And that’s worth a bit of forward planning, wherever you end up.

More Toddler Meals are freeze-dried toddler meals that just need water added to be munch-ready in minutes. Nutritious, wholesome and genuinely travel-friendly.

Rated Excellent on Trustpilot and available on Ocado and www.moretoddlermeals.co.uk

Jul 02
Love0
grandparents and a family farm

The summer safety net… Why grandparents matter more now than ever

By Education, environment, Family Farms, Green, Mental health
by Nicola Henderson CEO, Godstone Farm

For many families the long summer holidays are a time of anticipation – lighter evenings in the garden, picnics on the Downs and ice creams after a day out. But behind the postcard moments, there’s a quieter reality that many parents will recognise – six weeks is a very long time to juggle work, childcare and family life.

With many households balancing busy careers – often commuting into London – with family life, the logistics of summer can feel particularly stretched. Holiday clubs fill up quickly, childcare costs soon add up and annual leave only goes so far. This is where grandparents step in, not just as occasional helpers, but as a vital part of the fabric of modern family life.

Across the UK, grandparents’ contribution is extraordinary. More than half of grandparents now provide some form of childcare during the working week, often stepping in for hours – and sometimes days – at a time. On average, they provide over 20 hours of childcare a week, quietly filling gaps that formal childcare simply can’t always reach.

For many families, this support isn’t just helpful, it’s essential. Around 57% of parents with children under 13 rely on grandparents for childcare, and in a country where costs continue to rise, that support has a very real economic impact. It enables parents to continue working, while also giving children a sense of continuity and care that can be difficult to replicate elsewhere. But reducing grandparents to a line in a childcare spreadsheet misses the point entirely. What they offer goes far beyond logistics.

When out and about you can see this every day. Grandparents aren’t just supervising, they’re guiding, reassuring and connecting generations. They bring a different pace, a different perspective and often a kind of patience that today’s busy parents simply don’t have the luxury of time to offer.

There’s growing recognition of the emotional and developmental benefits this brings. Time spent with grandparents can help children feel more secure, broaden their understanding of family and identity and build confidence in social relationships. For grandparents themselves, the benefits are equally powerful, from improved wellbeing to a stronger sense of purpose and connection. In many ways, it’s one of the most natural and reciprocal relationships we have.

And yet, it’s also evolving. Modern grandparenting looks very different to a generation ago. Many are still working, travelling or living further afield, while also navigating new parenting styles and expectations. At the same time, families are increasingly relying on them not just for occasional help, but for regular, structured childcare, particularly during the school holidays.

Summer shines a spotlight on this dynamic. When school’s out for summer, parents often find themselves piecing together a patchwork of annual leave, flexible working and favours and it is grandparents who provide the continuity. They are the ones organising impromptu

days out, revisiting favourite places and creating the kind of simple, memorable moments that children often remember most vividly.

From a visitor attraction perspective, more of these multi-generational visits can be seen now than ever before. Grandparents aren’t just accompanying families; they’re often the ones planning the day, packing the snacks and really making an occasion of it. There’s something very special about watching those interactions unfold, whether it’s helping a toddler feed a goat for the first time or simply sitting together, unhurried, sharing an ice cream.

Many places have tried to respond to this shift in small but meaningful ways. There’s the occasional Grandparents’ Days which are designed to celebrate that relationship, creating space for shared experiences that feel easy, welcoming and inclusive. There’s a growing number of senior discounts and promotions as businesses start to realise the power of ‘the grey pound’ and during the summer holidays, when routines can feel anything but simple, the world really is starting to understand that value and flexibility matters.

A membership or loyalty pass has become a popular option for families looking for somewhere safe, familiar and relaxed to return to, particularly for grandparents caring for children across multiple days, who value anenvironment that feels manageable as well as enjoyable. It’s not about grand gestures, but about consistency – somewhere children can discover, play and build confidence, and grandparents can feel at ease – with access to excellent coffee too!

Of course, it’s important to acknowledge that not every family has this support. For some, grandparents may live far away, be working themselves, or simply not be part of a child’s life. And that’s where the idea of ‘chosen family’ becomes just as important. Extended family, close friends and neighbours – these networks can play an equally meaningful role. What matters most is that children have access to a wider circle of trusted adults; people who bring different experiences, perspectives and care into their world. Because family life rarely operates in neat categories. It’s fluid, interconnected and often beautifully collaborative. And while grandparents play an extraordinary role within that, it’s one that deserves to be recognised, not assumed. Because alongside the joy, there is also generosity. Time, energy and patience often given quietly, without expectation.

So, this summer, as families everywhere navigate the juggle, perhaps the real story isn’t just about how we fill the weeks, but who we fill them with. Because in the end, it won’t be the perfectly planned days that children remember most. It will be the people.

Godstone Farm in Surrey offers enriching outdoor experiences all year round.

www.godstonefarm.co.uk

Dec 03
Love0
donkey

Why experiences make the best Christmas gifts

By Education, environment, Family Farms, Forest School, Green
by Nicola Henderson
Godstone Farm

Every year, as Christmas approaches, many of us face the same dilemma: what to buy for our loved ones. Shops are overflowing with shiny new toys, gadgets and trinkets, each promising to be the ‘perfect gift’. But how often do those gifts gather dust on a shelf, or end up forgotten by January? Increasingly, in our busy lives people are realising that the most meaningful presents aren’t objects at all – they’re experiences where we can value time spent together.

Many visitor attractions see firsthand the joy that comes from shared moments and family adventures. Whether it’s watching a child’s face light up as they meet an animal up close, enjoying a day of discovery with grandparents, or creating a new festive tradition together, these are memories that last far longer than anything that comes wrapped in shiny paper. That’s why experience-based gifts – such as gift cards for days out, animal encounters, or tickets to special events – are becoming the new gold standard for Christmas giving.

Memories really can outlast material presents
Think back to your own childhood Christmases. Do you remember the toys you unwrapped each year? A few, maybe, but more likely, your fondest memories are of the moments spent with family, baking mince pies with mum, building a snowman with dad, or visiting a magical event together. That’s the beauty of gifting experiences, they create stories that can be retold, moments that can be treasured and photos that bring a smile for years to come.

A day out, for example, becomes so much more than simply ‘something to do’. It’s the delight of hand-feeding the goats, the fun of playing races in a soft play, the thrill of a tractor ride across the fields and the joy of simply being together away from everyday distractions. Experiences build connections, strengthen relationships and give families the most precious gift of all – time spent together.

Kinder to the environment
In today’s world, we’re all becoming more aware of the impact our choices have on the planet. Every year, millions of plastic toys and novelty gifts are bought, played with briefly, and eventually thrown away, many ending up in landfill. On top of that, the wrapping paper, packaging and batteries all add to the festive waste pile.

Choosing to give an experience instead is not only thoughtful, but also eco-friendly. A gift card, for example, can be tucked into a simple envelope – no need for excessive packaging, ribbons or plastic wrap. By gifting a day out or an event ticket, you’re giving joy without adding to the clutter of Christmas waste. It’s a more sustainable way to celebrate, one that aligns with the growing desire to protect our environment for the next generation – the very children we’re gifting to.

Flexibility for busy families
Another benefit of giving experiences is their flexibility. The festive season can often feel like a whirlwind of school plays, family visits and Christmas dinners. An experience doesn’t demand to be used immediately; instead, it gives families the freedom to plan a trip that suits them. Whether they fancy a winter adventure in January or a springtime visit to a farm, this type of gift is theirs to enjoy at the perfect time. There are so many experiences on offer in the UK, a spa day or driving experience might work for adults whilst days out are popular among children.

For grandparents, godparents or family friends looking to give something meaningful, this flexibility is invaluable. Rather than buying ‘just another toy’, they can give a promise of fun, adventure and quality time together.

Something different
Beyond general entry, experience-based gifts can be truly magical. Imagine the delight on a child’s face when they discover they’ve been gifted a behind the scenes experience, feeding the pigs, grooming a pony or learning more about the creatures they love. These encounters create unforgettable moments and often spark a lifelong interest in animals and nature. Places that offer a variety of different experiences will mean that all budgets can also be catered for.

Reduce stress and increase joy
There’s also a practical advantage to gifting experiences: it can make Christmas shopping less stressful! No more endless trawling through toy aisles, trying to guess which gadgets children already have, or worrying whether clothes will fit. An experience is always the right size, never goes out of fashion and won’t be forgotten after a week!

In fact, studies have shown that people feel happier when they spend money on experiences rather than material possessions. The anticipation of an upcoming day out provides joy before the event even begins, while the memories created extend the happiness long afterwards.

A Christmas that truly means something
At its heart, Christmas is about togetherness, joy and making memories. By choosing to give experiences rather than ‘things’, we can also stay truer to the spirit of the season.

So, this year, perhaps we should rethink our gift lists. Instead of filling stockings with ‘stuff’, why not give the people you love the chance to make memories that last a lifetime? After all, toys break, gadgets age and clothes go out of style – but the memory of time spent together will never fade.

Godstone Farm in Surrey offers enriching outdoor experiences all year round and welcomes a variety of baby animals each spring.
www.godstonefarm.co.uk

Nov 15
Love0
Forest-school

Why children need outdoor play – and simple ways to encourage it

By Early Years, Education, environment, Forest School, Wellbeing

by Dr John Allan,
Head of Impact and Breakthrough Learning at PGL Beyond

In a world dominated by screens, getting children outdoors has never been more urgent – or more important. Outdoor activity offers far more than just physical exercise: it nurtures resilience, builds confidence and develops a wide range of skills that can’t be replicated indoors.

Outdoor play provides conditions rarely found indoors. The unpredictability and multi-sensory nature of being outdoors challenges children to think creatively. Outdoor activities encourage children to explore, make decisions and adapt, building confidence and independence along the way. A child who is used to this is more likely to view setbacks in life as problems that can be solved, or even as stepping stones to growth.

Research shows that children who develop strong psychosocial skills early report better adult outcomes, including higher educational attainment, stronger employment prospects and improved mental health.

Learning new skills – whether physical, cognitive or social – is fundamental to healthy development. Outdoor experiences accelerate this process by fostering a balance of physical, social cognitive and emotional literacy at a time when brain development is most rapid.

Building resilience is central to this process. Psychosocial skills – such as self-awareness, empathy, creativity and adaptability – are established through varied, hands-on, practical experiences. Children who overcome physical obstacles can learn to ‘bounce beyond’ their original position, facing future challenges of all kinds with greater strength. This helps them to build the confidence and mental flexibility that supports both academic achievement and long-term wellbeing.

Getting children away from screens and embracing the outdoors
To inspire children to swap screens for fresh air, make outdoor activity accessible and enjoyable. Start small: set mini challenges such as a scavenger hunt or a timed bike ride. Lead by example – children are more likely to embrace the outdoors if parents value it too, whether through weekend walks, gardening or simply spending time outside together.

You can also weave outdoor experiences into daily routines; taking homework into the garden, organising play dates outdoors or using walks to school as opportunities to explore and chat. Consistency is key; when outdoor activity becomes a natural part of daily life, children see it as rewarding rather than a chore.

Five practical ways to encourage outdoor play
1. Choose a mix of activities
Outdoor play can come in many forms – climbing, cycling, splashing in puddles or exploring woodlands. Progressive exposure to uncertainty is not only healthy but essential for wellbeing. Parents can help by choosing a mix of activities that are both challenging and fun, such as adventure playgrounds or family walks.

2. Don’t let a little rain dampen the fun
The British weather is famously unpredictable, but outdoor play in the rain is just as rewarding. With waterproof clothing and a sense of adventure, children can thrive in wet conditions too.

3. Set smart boundaries on screen time
Today’s young people are predicted to spend the equivalent of 25 years of their lives looking at screens! Every hour sat staring at screens is an hour that could be spent outdoors, exploring, moving or simply playing. Instead, parents can set simple boundaries: no phones at mealtimes, less screen time before bed and encouragement to swap virtual play for real-world adventures.

4. Make movement part of everyday
For children aged five to 17, at least 60 minutes of moderate or vigorous activity daily is recommended. Bike rides, swimming or simply walking to school all count. These habits boost fitness, reduce anxiety and set the foundation for healthier adult lifestyles.

5. Let them learn by doing
For older children especially, independence is vital. Allowing them the freedom to wobble, stumble, fall and get back up teaches resilience. Over-protection, by contrast, can limit their ability to cope with setbacks. Activities that carry both risk and reward – such as trail walking – help young people practise bouncing back.

Children need more than exercise – they need experiences that challenge, inspire and prepare them for the future. Outdoor activity provides stronger physical health, confidence, self-esteem and resilience. Only the unpredictability and vitality of the outdoors offers the mix of skills young people need to thrive in today’s fast-changing world.

Dr John Allan is a leading academic in Sports Pedagogy, Psychology and Adventure Education.

Nov 01
Love0
beach family

Want flexibility, income and more travel?

By environment, family, Finance, Holiday, Holiday camps
by Emma Chessell
& Little Suitcases

Here’s how mums are doing it!

For many mums, balancing family life with professional aspirations can feel like walking a tightrope. The demands of parenting, household responsibilities and personal goals often leave little room for career growth or financial independence. Traditional 9-to-5 jobs with rigid schedules rarely provide the flexibility required to juggle all these roles effectively.

But there’s a growing movement of mums around the world finding a better way: becoming independent travel agents. This career path offers a unique combination of flexibility, income and the opportunity to travel more, all while allowing mums to design a life that works around their family, not the other way around.

Flexibility that fits your life
One of the biggest advantages of becoming an independent travel agent is the ability to create a schedule that aligns with family priorities. School runs, playdates, extracurricular activities and family milestones no longer have to conflict with your work commitments. Whether you choose to work in the mornings while the children are at school, after bedtime or during pockets of downtime throughout the day, your business operates on your terms. This freedom not only reduces stress but allows mums to stay fully present in their children’s lives while still pursuing a rewarding career.

Flexibility also extends to the location of your work. With modern technology, you can run your business from the comfort of your home, a favourite café or even while on holiday. This level of mobility gives mums the freedom to integrate work seamlessly into their lifestyle, without being tied to an office or a fixed location. The ability to work from anywhere also opens doors for families who love to travel, combining professional and personal adventures into one fulfilling lifestyle.

No experience needed
You don’t need a background in travel, hospitality or sales to start. Most agencies provide comprehensive training, mentorship and ongoing support to guide you through every step of the process. Your passion for travel and helping others plan unforgettable experiences is far more important than prior experience. This accessibility makes becoming a travel agent a realistic option for stay-at-home mums, those returning to the workforce or anyone looking to explore a flexible, meaningful career.

The learning curve is manageable and the skills you gain along the way, such as customer service, marketing and organisation, are valuable both personally and professionally. Many mums discover that as they grow their businesses, they develop confidence and expertise they never imagined they could achieve while balancing family life.

Earn income on your terms
Financial flexibility is another key benefit. Independent travel agents can start part-time and gradually expand their business as they feel comfortable. Whether you aim to supplement the household income or develop a full-time business, the pace is yours to set. Some mums use the income to fund family holidays, household expenses or personal projects, while others grow their business into a fully sustainable career that provides financial independence.

Unlike traditional jobs where income is fixed and dependent on hours worked, being an independent travel agent allows you to scale your earnings according to your efforts and goals. The combination of flexibility and potential income makes this career an appealing option for mums who want to contribute financially without sacrificing family time.

Travel smarter and more often
A unique perk of being a travel agent is the access to exclusive discounts and insider deals. This means you can save on your own family holidays while also taking advantage of opportunities to travel more frequently. Many mums find that this not only makes travel more affordable but also inspires them to explore destinations they might never have considered otherwise.

Travelling smarter becomes a lifestyle. By understanding how to access the best deals, optimise itineraries and plan memorable experiences, travel agents gain a skill set that benefits both their personal and professional lives. Sharing this knowledge with clients allows you to build trust and create meaningful experiences, while also enriching your own family adventures.

Building a supportive community
Another often-overlooked benefit is the community. Many travel agents join networks of like-minded mums who are balancing business and family life. These communities provide guidance, encouragement and inspiration, creating a collaborative environment where women lift each other up. From sharing tips on time management to celebrating milestones, the support system is invaluable.

Being part of a community of women empowering women enhances both personal and professional growth. It fosters motivation, accountability and a sense of belonging, which can be particularly rewarding for mums who may have felt isolated while juggling family responsibilities and career aspirations.

A career that works around your family
Ultimately, becoming an independent travel agent is about reclaiming control over your life. Instead of fitting family life around a rigid career, you create a business that works for your schedule, your family and your passions. The combination of flexibility, income potential, travel perks and supportive community means that many mums are not only earning money but also living a lifestyle that aligns with their values.

Mums around the world are proving that it is possible to have it all: a fulfilling career, time with family and the freedom to explore new destinations. The journey doesn’t require prior experience or a conventional career path, just passion, dedication and a willingness to learn. Becoming an independent travel agent allows women to take control of their time, their income and their adventures, creating a future that works around their lives, not against them.

If you’re a mum seeking flexibility, financial independence and the chance to travel smarter while building a meaningful business, becoming an independent travel agent could be the lifestyle transformation you’ve been looking for.

To find out more about becoming an Independent Travel Agent please call Emma on 07765 256073 or email hello@andlittlesuitcases.co.uk

 

Aug 08
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happy family

The mindful family holiday

By environment, family, Family Farms, fun for children, Holiday camps, Relationships, Wellbeing
by Adry Capodanno
The Holiday Fixer

10 tips to make travel more memorable (and less expensive)

Family holidays don’t have to be expensive or packed with attractions to be unforgettable. In fact, the most powerful memories are often born in the small, ordinary moments – especially for children. When we shift from “doing more” to “noticing more”, the whole experience becomes richer, calmer, and often, more affordable.

Mindfulness on holiday simply means approaching the trip with a little more intention – and making space in the day for your child to fully experience where they are.

Here are 10 experience-backed ways to bring more presence, connection and lasting joy into your family holidays – without overloading your itinerary or your wallet.

1. Even a simple holiday is a big deal for children
As adults, we often crave ease – a familiar resort, a beach where we don’t have to think, or a well-trodden ski route. It’s easy to feel like we’re just “recharging”. But for children, even the simplest holiday is an exciting experience. The texture of hotel bedding, the sound of a different language, the way the sun feels in a new place – it’s all new. You don’t need to seek out constant stimulation. That hotel breakfast buffet may feel routine to you, but for a child, it’s exciting and fascinating.

2. Leave ‘breathing room’ in the day
There’s a temptation to make the most of every moment, especially if the holiday has been hard-earned. But over-scheduling leaves everyone overstimulated and tired. Instead, keep the itinerary light. Aim for one or two structured plans per day, and let the rest unfold. That half hour spent sitting in a town square eating crisps, or watching snow fall outside a café window, often becomes the memory they talk about later.

3. Begin the experience before you even leave home
Children connect more deeply to places they feel familiar with. Introduce your destination early – through a short video, a picture book, or a few fun facts. Learn how to say “hello” and “thank you” in the local language. When your child sees that same flag, animal or landmark in real life, the recognition brings pride and excitement – “I know this!”

4. Use a destination-themed holiday bingo
This is a brilliant way to help younger children stay engaged. Create a bingo card with images specific to the location: a monument, the local flag, a food item, a traditional costume or a certain animal. The moment your child spots one and ticks it off, it becomes a little victory and the thrill on their face is priceless! It turns sightseeing into a game, and gently encourages them to look around more closely.

5. Let their senses lead
Taste, smell and touch are powerful memory anchors. If your child falls in love with a pastry or gelato, let them have it again – consistency helps memories stick. Let them choose a local soap or spice to take home. A few years from now, that scent might take them straight back to a tiny village bakery or the steps of a museum.

6. Invite them to observe and create
You don’t need to give them a travel journal – though some children love that. A disposable camera, a sketchbook, or even a prompt like “What do you think is the story of this small cafe?” helps children engage with their surroundings. Drawing a lighthouse, taking a photo of a street performer, or collecting small treasures like ticket stubs or postcards adds personal meaning to the trip.

7. Let them interact with the place – not just watch it
Encourage small interactions. Let your child say “merci” at the bakery, ask the tour guide a question, or learn a game from local children. You are teaching them that the world is full of people with different ways of life – and that it’s OK to be a guest in someone else’s culture.

8. Give children a say
Let them help make decisions – choosing between two places to visit, picking a route to walk or a plan B when it rains. When they feel part of the process, they’re more present and interested, they gain a sense of agency and connection to the journey.

9. Mix destinations – strategically
If possible, include more than one stop. Studies in cognitive psychology show that the brain segments memory by context and environment. A few days by the sea, followed by time in a town or mountainside village, creates variety. A shift in scenery helps children form clearer, more durable memories. The key is to transition thoughtfully, not rush.

10. Keep the story going at home
When you get home, print a few photos. Let your child pick their favourites. Display a postcard, a shell, or a drawing. Talk about the best bits over dinner. Retelling the story of your trip helps children internalise it and treasure it.

You don’t need to do more, or spend more, to give your children a meaningful holiday. Instead, notice more – and help them do the same. The real luxury lies in unhurried time together, where the pace lets moments breathe and children can connect with the world – and with you.

Whether you’re surfing down a sand dune, exploring a Christmas market, or watching fish dart under a pedal boat, it’s the moments you truly share that will stay with them the longest.

Adry at The Holiday Fixer specialises in expert, high-quality, bespoke travel itineraries worldwide, with a focus on family holidays and friendly, stress-free, parent-to-parent service. Your next adventure is just a chat away! Contact Adry at adry@theholidayfixer.com or 07583 581042.

Jul 04
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The importance of storytelling

By Early Years, Education, environment, Language, languages at an early age
by Jack Esplen, Assistant Principal Juniors
Shoreham College

In a world that has already made the leap from the page to the screen, what is the value of storytelling, and will it really help our children to thrive?

So, you’ve been told this before: early reading is crucial. It has a profound impact on children’s development and their success in later life. You’ve seen evidence too – statistics about how many books, or even words, children should have read before they even start nursery. Have one more fact for your parenting arsenal: it is estimated that a child who is read to daily will have heard 296,660 words by the time they are five years old, compared to just 63,570 words if they are read to once or twice a week.

So yes, reading to your child is important. Storytelling might be even more important – and it helps to understand why.

Children need opportunities to hear stories; they are imperative to help them engage with the world around them and to develop cognitive, social and emotional skills. They give children plots, characters, settings and the chance to fully immerse themselves in worlds and adventures that expand the known experiences at a young age. The pages they have read to them give them an endless library of worlds and characters, prompting a curiosity and the chance to ask thousands of questions as they begin to understand the world around them.

Storytelling lays the foundation for personal, social and emotional development. How many of us think of Disney’s ‘Bambi’ as our first experience of grief, or learnt about the value of true friendship through the lens of Pooh Bear and Piglet? Experiencing the highs and lows of a beloved character’s story, the decisions they make and the pain they endure, enable children to begin to understand what real emotion feels like in a safer, ‘fly-on-wall’ way. Through storytelling and the conversations it sparks, we can teach our children how to communicate, interact and empathise.

Don’t underestimate the impact that quality stories can have on our young people’s ability to problem solve and build resilience. When children follow a character’s journey through challenges and obstacles, they learn that struggles are a natural part of life. The way these characters overcome adversity offers children a road map for how they might face difficulties in their own lives. Whether it’s a hero navigating through conflict, or a character learning from their mistakes, stories allow children to witness failure and triumph, and most importantly, the process in between. This helps them develop a growth mindset, teaching them to see setbacks as opportunities for growth rather than reasons to give up. It is through the act of storytelling that children are able to build both their inner strength and their ability to persevere.

So, in a world dominated by technology and screens, it’s crucial we continue to make space for these timeless traditions that foster emotional intelligence, problem-solving skills, and empathy – essential skills for thriving in today’s complex world.

Please call 01273 592681 to find out more about what Shoreham College can offer you, or to arrange a personal visit at any time of the school year.
www.shorehamcollege.co.uk

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