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Nov 02
Love0
Family holiday planner

Travelling during school holidays: What parents need to know before booking

By family, Food & Eating, fun for children, Holiday, Holiday camps
by Adry Capodanno
The Holiday Fixer

The turn of the year often sparks thoughts of the next family escape. As winter sets in, many parents across Surrey begin looking ahead to February half-term, Easter and summer holidays – chasing sunshine, child-friendly hotels and flight times that don’t mean dragging little ones to the airport at 2am. It should be exciting, yet the sheer number of options can feel overwhelming. Rising prices and limited availability don’t help either.

The encouraging news? With a little foresight – and a clear idea of your family’s priorities – planning can feel much smoother, and the end result far more rewarding. Here are some of the most common stumbling blocks when booking school holiday trips, and how to avoid them.

Start with what matters most
One of the easiest traps is trying to tick every box: all-inclusive for convenience, walking distance to a pretty town, short flights, endless activities and total peace and quiet.

The reality is that no trip can offer everything, particularly on a budget. The happiest holidays often come when parents decide what matters most, and allow a little flexibility elsewhere. For some, that might mean a resort just outside town with great facilities. For others, it could mean skipping all-inclusive dining to enjoy local restaurants.

Being clear on your top priorities usually leads to better choices and a more enjoyable trip overall.

Secure the right space early
Hotels may have plenty of rooms, but only a handful are truly designed for families – interconnecting spaces for teens, or layouts that let younger children sleep while parents relax nearby. The same goes for those dream villas with the perfect pool and just the right number of bedrooms. Unsurprisingly, these are always the first to go, and once they’re booked, they’re gone.

Planning ahead gives you more choice and the best chance of securing a setup that truly works for your family.

Rethink awkward flight times
Those crack-of-dawn departures may look tempting, especially if they save money. In practise, they often set the wrong tone for the trip.

Waking children in the early hours, or hanging around after an inconvenient checkout, isn’t the best start.

It’s worth weighing up whether the savings – or the novelty of a far-flung destination – outweigh the extra tiredness. Often, a well-timed flight means more time enjoying your holiday and less time catching up on sleep!

Don’t rely on other people’s ‘perfect’ choice
It’s natural to ask friends for recommendations – perhaps a neighbour swears by their favourite spot in Spain. While helpful, what delights one family may frustrate another. A long transfer can be fine with older children but draining with toddlers. Some youngsters thrive in kids’ clubs, while others prefer to be with parents.

The key is not to follow trends, but to think honestly about what your own family enjoys and what you need from this particular holiday. That makes sorting through the noise much simpler.

Know when to ask for expert advice
Planning your own flights, hotels and activities can feel like part of the adventure. But it’s worth knowing when expert guidance can make a difference. Booking elements separately doesn’t offer the same financial protection if flights are delayed or cancelled, and sometimes a hotel looks far better online than it does in person.

Adventure and reassurance don’t have to be opposites. More parents are now choosing holidays that combine exciting experiences – from safaris to cultural tours – with the security of a protected bespoke package. In the end, it’s about recognising when advice can save you time, money and stress.

Why planning ahead helps
With school holiday dates fixed, demand always outstrips supply. The most suitable rooms, convenient flights and well-located resorts are snapped up quickly. Planning ahead not only increases choice but can also mean better value.

Families who organise trips earlier tend to enjoy a calmer lead-up and fewer last-minute compromises. A little forward thinking really does make all the difference.

Family holidays are more than just time away – they’re rare chances to pause, connect and make memories together.

Whether it’s securing the right room, steering clear of awkward flight times, or being realistic about your wishlist, a thoughtful approach goes a long way. And with the growing trend towards family bespoke travel, many parents are seeking holidays designed around their needs rather than one-size-fits-all solutions.

So, as the next school holidays approach, perhaps the best gift you can give your family this year is something money can’t buy at the last minute: a little extra planning.

Adry at the Holiday Fixer specialises in expert, high-quality, bespoke travel itineraries worldwide, with a focus on family holidays and stress- free, parent-to-parent service. Your next adventure is just a chat away! Contact Adry at Adry@theholidayfxer.com or 07583581042 for a free consultation.

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
Love0
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
Love0
ballet dancer

Evolving the way dance is taught

By dance & Art, Exercise, fun for children, Mental health, Playing
by Jess Child
JC Dance

The importance of a positive safe and inclusive learning environment for children.

Dance classes, especially ballet classes, are notoriously known for their strict nature. Often putting the mental and physical wellbeing of students at risk. It is time to switch this narrative and normalise a gentler approach which supports students rather than tearing them down. This looks like an emphasis on wellbeing, inclusivity, positive reinforcement, listening to the body and the understanding of injury prevention.

Emphasis on wellbeing means treating dance students as human first, and dancers second. Mental health must be a priority in the dance space. All humans are different so why does this have to change in a dance class? Students will all have different needs and experience classes in different ways. Teachers who model empathy, respect and have open communication with their students, create a safe space where children feel valued, supported and free to explore movement without fear of judgment. This encourages individuality of each student, nurtures children’s confidence, and empowers them to express and be themselves. Dance should be a source of happiness and connection, not pressure.

Inclusivity in dance classes is essential for creating a space where every child can feel seen. Dance should reflect the diverse world we live in, welcoming all body types, abilities and ways of thinking. Recognising and supporting neurodivergent students, for example those with autism, ADHD or other cognitive differences, means adapting teaching styles, using clear communication, and stepping away from the rigidity of ballet training.

Using different learning styles and pathways allows children to be themselves and thrive. It is important to challenge the outdated stereotypes of how a dancer ‘should look’. Using an approach of body neutrality in dance classes, focusing on what our bodies can do, how they move and how that makes them feel. Taking the focus away from how our bodies look. In a society already rampant with diet culture, dancers are even more vulnerable, often in front of mirrors and looking towards a stereotypical ‘ballet body’ as a goal. If a child has a body and is doing ballet, they have a ballet body! It’s a teacher’s job to protect their students from these toxic ideals.

Teaching children to listen to their bodies in a dance setting, is crucial for safety and injury prevention. Often young dancers’ bodies are pushed beyond their limits creating lifelong problems. We have to respect our body’s limits and remember young bodies are growing and changing all the time, so these limits within each individual student will also change. Encouraging body awareness will help young dancers recognise pain and fatigue early. This will reduce the likelihood of injury and create lifelong healthy movement patterns. The teacher’s job is to teach students correct technique so as to not put any added strain onto their growing joints and muscles. It’s teaching children it’s OK to rest, its OK to listen to your body’s internal cues. Empowering students to respect and have autonomy over their own bodies.

At the heart of evolving dance education is the importance of a positive and supportive learning environment. For children, positive reinforcement and offering corrections and constructive criticism from a place of kindness, builds confidence, motivation and resilience. As a teacher it’s important to lead a class from this place. The way a teacher speaks to their students, directly reflects how the students speak to themselves – teaching from a place of highlighting progress rather than focusing solely on mistakes will help children feel safe and valued. They will be more open to exploring what their bodies can do and take risks without fear of failure and judgment, therefore able enjoy the process of improving technique, nurturing a lifelong love for dance.

Jess Child runs IC Dance – dancing together, growing together. Where every child is welcomed, valued and supported in their movement journey.

www.jcdanceclasses.com  07305 228770  info@jcdanceclasses.com @jess_jcdanceyoga

Jul 03
Love0
Arty owl

Children need more art

By dance & Art, Education, fun for children, Mental health, play, Playing, Wellbeing
by Sebastian Dewing
Founder Artroom Brighton

Nurturing creativity beyond the classroom

Back at primary school, in the 1980s, I had a weekly art lesson in an art room, a pottery class in a pottery studio and a needlework lesson in a fabrics room. Whereas I appreciate, this was not necessarily on offer in every school, it certainly wasn’t radical.

Fast forward 40 years and the demotion of art from a core subject to a smattering of token options that children dip in and out of, is astounding. If my daughter is lucky enough to get an art lesson, it is usually in conjuction with a topic lesson – like lets draw ‘a Viking long boat’ or design a ‘save the rain forests’ poster. There is still value in this but it is rarely art for art’s sake. Our children are being disadvantaged by the requirements of national educational targets, which hugely favour ‘core’ subjects, meaning art is now undervalued in primary schools. It is the participation in art, rather than the ability and skill level of the child, that is fundamentally important here.

In a world of innovation, it couldn’t be a more crucial time to use art to empower our young people, as employers place a huge emphasis on creative thinking, in addition to personal skills such as confidence, effective decision-making and originality. Such skills are bolstered by studying the arts and being able to think outside of the box, innovate and be creative is something that seems lacking in many young people entering the workforce.

Sir Ken Robinson in his TED Talk, Do Schools Kill Creativity, said that: “Creativity is now as important in education as literacy – we don’t grow into creativity; we grow out of it. Or rather, we get educated out of it… Our education system has mined our minds in the way that we strip-mine the earth: for a particular commodity. And for the future, it won’t serve us. We have to rethink the fundamental principles on which we’re educating our children.”

The Digital, Culture, Media and Sport Committee (2019) said in their report Changing Lives: “We are deeply concerned by the evidence we received around the downgrading of arts subjects in schools, with all the consequent implications for children’s development, wellbeing, experiences, careers and, ultimately, life chances.”

While schools work really hard to deliver a broad curriculum, the time and resources available for creative subjects, such as art, are frequently limited or sidelined. Yet, for many children, art isn’t just a subject – it’s a language, an outlet and a way to connect with themselves and the world around them.

Art workshops can offer a space where that creative expression can truly flourish. Unlike the school environment, where outcomes and assessments can sometimes overshadow the process, workshops are structured around exploration and fun. They allow children to use new materials, think visually and build confidence in their own ideas – all in a relaxed and supportive setting.

During the long summer break, when routines shift and screen time can easily dominate, art workshops can provide children with meaningful, hands-on experiences. It’s not just about keeping them busy – it’s about giving them the tools and space to grow, create and have fun.

For parents looking to support their child’s artistic interests beyond the classroom, workshops can be an ideal stepping stone. They bridge the gap between what schools can offer and what children truly need to thrive as young creatives.

At Artroom Brighton, we truly and firmly believe that art has the power to transform and nurture the lives of young people – we’ve seen it happen many, many times.
In the current climate, it’s no wonder that more and more parents are choosing to send their children to our classes. Unlock YOUR child’s creative potential and book them in for a course at our studio. Visit www.arrtroombrighton

Jul 02
Love0
baby swimming

From first dips to sunny trips – six tips for getting your baby set for holiday water fun

By fun for children, Summer, sun safety, swimming

Planning your baby’s first summer holiday? Whether you’re off to the coast, heading abroad or just hoping for some sunshine and splash time closer to home, it’s only natural to have a few nerves when water’s involved.

From hotel pools to beaches and even splash parks, these are all new environments – and for babies, they can be a bit much if they’re not used to them. The good news is there’s lots you can do before you even leave home to help your baby feel more confident in and around water.

Here, Tamsin Brewis from Water Babies, shares her top tips to help your family enjoy a calmer, more relaxed first summer of water play – wherever you’re headed.

1. Try regular water play at home
You don’t need to wait until you’re on holiday to get your baby used to being in water. A few minutes of fun in the bath or even in a shallow washing-up bowl with warm water and their favourite toy can make a real difference. Splash water over their arms and legs, gently pour it over their shoulders and let them feel the water running down their skin. These simple activities help your baby get used to water movement and temperature changes – all of which they’ll experience when they are at the beach or in a pool.

2. Get them used to their ‘swimming kit’
Babies aren’t always thrilled the first time you pop a sunhat on their head or try a swim nappy. So, it’s worth letting them wear these items for short periods before your trip. Try letting them wear their swimwear in the bath or garden and have a few short ‘practise’ sessions with their hat on indoors while they play. That way, you’re not adding new sensations to an already unfamiliar environment when you’re on holiday.

3. Treat water time as exploration, not a task
When you arrive at the pool or beach, go at your baby’s pace. Sit by the water’s edge and let them watch and listen. If they’re feeling brave, dip their toes in, then gradually their legs and hands. Hold them close and talk to them softly so they know you’re there and they’re safe. The aim isn’t to ‘get them in’ or have them swim – it’s just about helping them feel comfortable with this new space.

4. If they’re unsure, stay calm and responsive
If your baby seems unsettled or cries when you try to introduce them to water, don’t worry – it doesn’t mean you’ve done anything wrong. Step back, have a cuddle and try again later or another day. Your calm reassurance tells them it’s OK to take things slowly. Babies are sensitive to your emotions – so staying positive and relaxed helps them do the same, even if things don’t go to plan right away.

5. Build in quiet, connected moments
Being in water together – whether it’s a pool, sea or bath – is a lovely opportunity for bonding. Hold your baby close, maintain eye contact, and talk or sing to them while you float or sit in shallow water. These peaceful moments help your baby associate water with safety and closeness. And for you, it’s a chance to slow down and enjoy the moment – which isn’t always easy on a busy family holiday.

6. Prepare with gentle swim sessions
If you’ve got a holiday coming up, booking a few baby swimming sessions beforehand can help give you both a head start. At Water Babies, we focus on building confidence through trust – not pressure. Our lessons are designed to help babies feel comfortable in the water and to give parents the tools to support them safely. Even a short series of lessons can make a big difference when it comes to enjoying water time on holiday.

With a little bit of preparation, your baby’s first summer around water can be full of happy memories – not just for them, but for you too. Whether it’s dipping tiny toes in the sea, sharing a splash in the pool or simply cooling off in the garden, building their confidence early means you can both relax and enjoy the moment when it counts.

For more information about Water Babies please visit www.waterbabies.co.uk

Jul 01
Love0
happy children lying

Outdoor play matters

By Education, environment, Family Farms, fun for children, Gardening, Green
by Jennifer Clary
Little Growers Farm

Children today face a brand-new frontier, defined by rapidly evolving technologies that have been baked into their lives since birth. While their Millennial and Gen Z parents fondly remember childhoods with books and hours spent in the playground, Generation Alpha children born between 2010 and 2024 are growing up with screens and touch interfaces as the predominant stimuli.

The UK’s Education Committee published an astonishing report just a few months ago which tracked a 52% increase in children’s screen time between 2020-2022, providing evidence that nearly 25% of children exhibit smartphone usage consistent with a behavioural addiction. This report also revealed that 20% of children in the UK between three and five years old have their own mobile phone! Back in the early 1980s when I was navigating young life, my time was spent kicking a ball around at the park or play acting with my younger brother. Technology fancier than Skip-It and Teddy Ruxpin was the furthest thing from my mind!

Recently I attended an Ignite Women in Business brunch hosted by the indomitable Natalie Montagnani. Many of the women in attendance were mums as well as business owners, so the conversation naturally touched on our collective concerns for Generation Alpha and, importantly, what we can actively do to support children’s healthy development and preparedness. The overwhelming consensus was to encourage more outdoor, hands-on and screen free play.

Here’s why:
1. Physical fitness matters
Being in nature encourages active play and normalises daily physical activity for children as an important, healthy habit. Yet more than 400 playgrounds have closed across our country since 2012, decreasing readily accessible outdoor areas for children. One of the greatest supports that parents can provide to children is seeking out safe, engaging outdoor locations for play. We are lucky here in Sussex as we have many places locally where children can run wild and play freely whether that be a beach, park or forest. After all, it doesn’t matter how technically proficient our offspring are if they’re physically unwell.

There’s an old adage “You have 1,000 problems until you have a health problem – then you only have one problem”. It’s true. Teaching children the benefit of prioritising physical fitness is a lifelong gift.

2. Executive function is developed, not inherited
Unstructured play time is the best way for children to build the skills to help them plan, prioritise, troubleshoot, negotiate and multi-task. Being outside gives children the opportunities they need to practise these vital skills.

3. Taking risks is necessary on the path to success
As human beings, we all need to take risks to achieve our goals. Taking risks can be uncomfortable, but when children are encouraged to push boundaries in their youth, they are better prepared to take big dream-building swings as adults! Climbing a tree, balancing on a log and other outdoor challenges build confidence and teach children that – even when taking a risk falls flat – the lessons they learn from failure are valuable and empower them to ultimately realise success.

4. Nature needs protecting
Having been born into a society that emphasises technology means that Generation Alpha will only learn to appreciate nature if we model the importance of environmental protection. Children who spend quality time playing outdoors are more likely to become adults who advocate for our planet. It is not a given that future generations will be able to walk in the woods, view animals in their natural habitats or play in a stream. Generation Alpha’s behaviours will largely dictate what becomes of our Earth and so it falls mainly to us, their parents, to provide this most important education.

5. Outdoor play boosts brain function for life
Research has shown that the increased oxygen levels from being outdoors enhances cognitive performance and that the expansiveness of nature provides a respite from the over-stimulation of indoor, screen-dominated spaces. Outside ‘brain breaks’ allow for improved information processing and better learning outcomes. So even if your child is a tech whiz destined for a career as a drone manager, cybersecurity expert, or virtual habitat designer, playing outside lays the strongest possible foundation for their future.

At the end of the day, I am not a Luddite. My own children, aged four and five, revel in Bluey and enjoy listening to GoKidGo podcasts like Snoop and Sniffy or Story Train from my phone while building with magnetic blocks. After all, I recognise that Generation Alpha is indeed facing a NEW frontier: one which old school Millennials like me are grappling to keep up with in real time and the full possibilities of which are almost impossible to imagine. Technology will undoubtedly transform the future in many positive ways as well as negative ones, and I certainly believe that there is a need to educate our young people about the realities of their world, from robotics to AI. But, as human beings, it is vital to remember that we are more than simply machines. Outdoor play is a key developmental experience and, despite exponential advancements in the tools we use, preserving this most foundational education for our children should be the highest priority.

Jennifer Clary is the founder of Little Growers Farm, a summer pop-up for art, science and play.

From making lava lamps to catching bubbles, there’s something for every family to enjoy

at Little Growers Farm! www.littlegrowersfarm.co.uk

Jul 01
Love0
skateboard lesson

They’re not broken – it’s their superpower potential

By ADHD and neurodiversity, Education, fun for children, Mental health, special educational needs
by Jack Francis
The Skate Club

How passion helps neurodiverse children discover their ‘superpowers’

A few months ago, I stood in front of 200 primary school children, sharing stories from my life – skateboarding down hills with Christmas trees strapped to my board, struggling to keep up at university and writing a book I never thought I’d be able to write. As I spoke, a boy turned to his mate and whispered, “I’ve got ADHD and dyslexia – like him.” That moment stuck with me. That small moment of recognition, pride even, is why I’ve been doing these assemblies.

I was diagnosed with dyslexia at university, and ADHD much more recently, as an adult running a skate school. Growing up, these weren’t framed as ‘superpowers’. At best, they were obstacles. At worst, signs of somehow falling short. I’d often been called bright, but that made it harder – like I had all the pieces, just not the ability to put them together.

It’s only in recent years that I’ve come to see how much of what I’m good at – from teaching, to coaching, to running a business – is tied to the way my brain works. My hyperfocus, creativity, energy and problem-solving skills aren’t things I’ve achieved despite my neurodiversity. They are my neurodiversity. And I’m not alone.

The power of passion
In every school I visit, there are children sitting quietly with heads full of big ideas, or legs bouncing under the table. Some have diagnoses, many don’t. They might struggle with reading, listening, or managing frustration – but the potential in those children is massive. What they need isn’t ‘fixing’. What they need is space to explore something they care about, something that lets them feel good at being themselves. For me, that thing was skateboarding.

Skateboarding gave me freedom. It wasn’t about winning or being picked for a team. It was about solving tiny physical puzzles – how to move, how to balance and how to land a trick. It was social but low-pressure. I could focus completely on what I was doing, fail over and over again and still feel proud of the progress. Looking back, skateboarding was the first place I truly felt capable.

Today, as a skate coach, I see the same thing in other children – especially those who are neurodiverse. Children who are anxious or fidgety, or who’ve been told they “Just need to focus,” often find a rhythm through skating. I’ve watched children go from nervously standing on a board to rolling down ramps on their own, grinning from ear to ear. Some of them go home and do their reading for the first time in weeks. It’s not about the trick – it’s about the shift in how they see themselves.

Reframing ‘difficulty’
One of the challenges for neurodiverse children today is that their journey often begins with being told what they can’t do. A diagnosis, helpful as it is, can also carry an unspoken message: you’re going to struggle. And yes, there may be challenges. But there are also advantages – and children deserve to hear that side too.

Dyslexic thinkers often have strong visual and spatial awareness, creative imagination and big-picture thinking. Those with ADHD may have intense focus (on the right task), incredible energy and rapid-fire ideas. Autistic children often bring attention to detail, emotional honesty and deep interests. But these traits only shine when we let children follow what they love.

That’s the heart of it: when a child finds their passion – whether it’s skateboarding, coding, storytelling or animals – it becomes a doorway into confidence. Passion gives purpose to their focus, structure to their energy and joy to their learning. And when a child starts seeing themselves as someone who can, not just someone who struggles, everything changes.

The adult’s role
As parents, educators, and carers, our role isn’t to tell children who they are – it’s to notice when they light up, and to help them follow that thread. Sometimes that means letting them try unusual things. Sometimes it means not pushing them to do what everyone else is doing. And sometimes it just means listening when they talk about something they care about.

Skateboarding might not be your child’s thing – and that’s fine. But something is. There’s something out there that lets them feel free, focused and fully themselves. Our job is to help them find it. Not to demand they perform, but to offer them the kind of support that says, “You’re not broken – you’re just different and that’s a strength.”

I still get overwhelmed. I still struggle with admin. I still forget things. But I’ve also built a skate school, written a book and coached hundreds of young people. And I’ve done that not in spite of my neurodiversity, but because of it.

So when your child gets obsessed with something, try not to brush off. Watch closely. That might just be the spark that helps them discover their superpower.

Jack Francis is the founder of The Skate Club and author of “How to Train Your Skateboard”, a beginner’s guide to skateboarding.
www.theskateclub.com

Jul 01
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girl in forest

Let them climb

By children's health, Education, environment, fun for children, Green, Safety, Wellbeing
by Lucy Owen-Collins
Head of Adventures at Bee in the Woods

The powerful benefits of outdoor risky play

In an age of screen time, padded playgrounds and hyper-awareness of safety, it can feel instinctive to shout “Be careful!” every time your child climbs a tree or scrambles up a boulder. But what if, in our effort to protect, we’re holding our children back?

As parents, we want to keep our children safe, but research shows that too much caution can actually hold children back from vital developmental opportunities.

Risky play; those thrilling, uncertain, physical experiences like climbing, jumping from heights, balancing on logs, or exploring wild spaces – is more than just a childhood rite of passage. It’s a crucial ingredient in how children grow into confident, capable, resilient adults.

Author and childhood play advocate Tim Gill, in ‘No Fear: Growing Up in a Risk Averse Society’, argues that children need real opportunities to test their limits and take measured risks. When we support rather than suppress this kind of play, we empower children to become more aware of their bodies, make better decisions and develop lifelong emotional resilience.

The benefits of risky play
Physically, risky play helps children build strength, agility, coordination and fine motor control. Scrambling up a climbing frame, balancing on a log, or running across sand not only keeps children active – it enhances their core stability, posture and endurance.

Sensory development also thrives in outdoor play. Movements like spinning, swinging, rolling and balancing stimulate the vestibular and proprioceptive systems – key components in helping children understand where their body is in space. These experiences lay the foundation for everything from focus and attention to emotional regulation and coordination.

Cognitively, risky play sharpens problem-solving and decision-making. Children must assess their environment – “Is this branch strong enough? Can I jump that far?” – and adjust their approach in real time. This self-assessment builds independence and executive function.

Socially and emotionally, children learn to regulate emotions like fear and frustration, and to persevere after a fall or failure. When playing with others, they negotiate, take turns, lead and follow – all vital skills for life. Risky play also nurtures courage and self-esteem: there’s nothing like the glow of pride after scaling a tall rock or swinging across a stream.

Risk is not the enemy – danger is
There’s a difference between risk and danger. Risk is a challenge a child can see, consider and try to overcome. Danger is something hidden or poorly understood. As adults, our role is to assess the environment, offer guidance and stay nearby, rather than removing every possible hazard or stepping in too soon.

Forest School Leaders often use a ‘risk-benefit’ approach – recognising that the benefits of play with risk often outweigh the downsides when managed sensibly.

Supporting safe risky play: What parents can do
Instead of shutting down adventurous play, we can shift how we support it. Here are a few ways parents can help children assess risk:
• Talk it through: Ask, “What’s your plan?”, “How could you do that safely?” or “What’s your next step?” These questions should help children think critically and prepare.
• Model curiosity, not fear: Stay calm and positive, even when your instincts are shouting. You can always move closer or spot from a distance.
• Celebrate effort, not just achievement: Say, “You tried that really carefully” or “I noticed how you tested that first”, to reinforce thoughtful behaviour.
• Know your child: Every child has a different threshold for risk. Trust their instincts, but be there to encourage and, occasionally, challenge them.

What to say instead of “Be careful”
“Be careful” is vague and often ineffective. Try these alternatives:

• “Can you find a steady place for your feet?”

• “Use both hands.”

• “Take your time and notice what’s around you.”

• “What’s your plan if that wobbles?”

• “I’m right here if you need me.”

These phrases promote awareness, decision-making and reassurance without instilling fear.

Risky play in different environments: Safety tips
Outdoor environments offer rich, natural opportunities for risky play. Here’s how to support children’s exploration safely and confidently in a few common settings:

At the beach
• Water safety first: Teach children to respect the tide, watch the sea and stay within view. Watch for strong currents and always stay close when water is involved.
• Digging and climbing: Sand dunes and rock pools offer exciting climbing opportunities. Encourage kids to test ground firmness and wear shoes with grip.
• Sensory-rich play: Let children roll, bury, balance, and run. Sand is a great medium for physical and imaginative play, but remind children not to dig too deep or tunnel near unstable edges.

In the woods
• Tree climbing: Don’t lift children into trees to climb them – encourage them to understand their own abilities by climbing themselves. Encourage kids to “climb down as well as up”- if they can’t get down safely, they’re too high. Avoid trees with dead branches and teach children keep ‘three points of contact’ on the tree at all times (two hands, one foot/one hand, two feet)
• Sticks and stones: Playing with natural materials builds creativity and coordination. Teach children how to carry sticks safely (point down, away from faces).
• Rough ground: Roots, mud and slopes are ideal for balance and proprioception. Wear shoes with grip and support falls as learning moments rather than failures.

On climbing equipment or rocks
• Let them fall small: Risky play doesn’t mean no bumps or bruises, but small falls teach children to adapt and try again.
• Check surfaces: Sand, bark chips or grass under climbing equipment help cushion falls. Encourage safe jumping and always remind children to look before leaping.

Why it all matters
When we give children permission to play with risk, we do more than help them become physically stronger. We show them that we trust their judgment, believe in their resilience and honour their growing independence.

Let’s raise children who aren’t afraid to fall, try again and learn through doing. The outdoors is their natural training ground. So next time your child teeters on a tree limb or builds a fort from branches, take a breath and remember: this is childhood, exactly as it should be.

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 01
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upside down selfie with kids

The benefits of an active holiday camp

By environment, fun for children, Holiday camps, Mental health, Wellbeing
by Emily Finch
Ultimate Activity Camps

The school holidays are a time for children to take a break from the school routine, have fun, relax and recharge but they can also be an opportunity for growth, adventure and to learn new skills. Holiday camps offer a fantastic alternative to boredom at home, long hours in front of the screens and finding fun and engaging childcare solutions for parents. Active holiday camps create the perfect environment for children to stay fit and build valuable life skills through physical activities, games and team challenges.

Active holiday camps are more than a way of burning off energy. They can support children’s mental wellbeing, help them make new friends, and even spark a lifelong love for the outdoors. Whether it’s boosting their confidence through new experiences or simply encouraging healthy habits, the benefits go far beyond the holiday itself.

Improved physical health
Activities like sports, swimming, hiking and obstacle courses help improve cardiovascular fitness, strength, flexibility and coordination. Regular physical activity can also boost the immune system and supports healthy growth and development. With a range of activities throughout the day to participate in, an active holiday camp will help children get moving and trying new activities can inspire a love and help exercise to become a regular occurrence.

Being on camp for a day, a week or the whole summer can help to create a lifestyle change. An active camp creates a fun atmosphere and where it’s normalised for children to be on the move. Enjoying themselves in this environment means it is likely children will want to carry it on outside of the camp, creating a new norm. By being outside and in the natural environment, whether that is whilst on a multi-activity camp, on school playing fields or a sports specific camp on astro turf or specialist surfaces or survival camps in the woods all these will help children appreciate the outdoors, fresh air and a gain a respect for nature.

Boosts mental wellbeing
Being outdoors and engaged in fun physical activities releases endorphins that help elevate mood and reduce stress and anxieties. The regular exercise children get in an active holiday camp can also boost their mood and improve their focus. Being active will also naturally tire a child out, meaning they will come home from camp and have a deeper and more restful night’s sleep, which will help improve their overall mood and wellbeing.

Active camps also help to develop children’s social skills. They are a great place to meet new people and make new friends. Many activities on an active camp involve an element of teamwork, bringing all kinds of children together to work towards a common goal. Children learn to communicate, co-operate, resolve conflicts and support one another – skills that are essential in all areas of life. The shared experiences create lasting memories and bonds.

Active camps also help build confidence and independence. Trying new activities with new friends and succeeding while being supported by new peers helps build confidence and self-esteem. Whether it’s on the football pitch or in the art room, being praised and supported by others leaves children with a sense of achievement. Being in a new environment without their parents, with unfamiliar faces and possibly unfamiliar surroundings, encourages children to step out of their comfort zone. They learn to adapt to new instructors/teachers and navigate new conversations and friendships on their own, giving them invaluable life lessons and skills.

Reduces screen time
Holiday camps, and active camps especially, can be a great way to pry digital devices from children’s hands. The limited screen time creates a great opportunity to reconnect with play, the outdoors and simple childhood fun! With all the activities on offer and action-packed timetables, children’s devices will be a distant memory. Reduced screen time increases focus, creativity and emotional regulation, on and off of camp.

Promotes learning through play
Many activity camps incorporate learning into the timetable, almost like sneaking extra vegetables into dinner by cutting it very fine! This can be through teamwork, creative thinking or STEM. Activities like team-based problem-solving games, treasure hunts and movement-based STEM challenges help children develop critical thinking, communication and collaboration skills. All while staying active, making learning feel exciting and rewarding. Whether they’re figuring out clues in a scavenger hunt or building a structure that can withstand movement, children are developing skills that will benefit them long after the camp day ends.

At Ultimate Activity Camps, children can enjoy a range of over 40 sports, games and craft activities each week, led by inspiring staff in superb facilities – running at 45 locations this summer! For further information about camps near you please visit www.ultimateactivity.co.uk

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