5 Tips to Decorate Your Child’s Room

5 Tips to Decorate Your Child’s Room

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Decorating a children’s bedroom can be a lot of fun, but creating a space that both you and your child will love for years to come isn’t always easy. There’s a lot to consider, including the size of the space on offer, the age of your child(ren) and your budget. Here are five tips to help.

Storage

Having a storage unit that allows children to tidy up after themselves should be a top priority. It means messes can easily be cleared away and gives your child ownership over their space, encouraging them to take responsibility for keeping their bedroom clean and tidy. You can opt for a bay window storage unit that is easily accessible for little hands and also provides a comfy seat for reading.

Keep it Simple

When it comes to kids’ rooms, there can be a temptation for parents to go overboard including everything they wish they’d had as a youngster but when it comes to creating the perfect children’s bedroom, less is usually more. By keeping the décor simple and furnishings to just the essentials, you’ll create more space for free play, which is a must for children of all ages.

Play With Colours

Children love colour and redecorating your child’s room is a great way to introduce fun colour to your home, but it’s crucial to choose the right one. Involve your child in the process of choosing the colours and shades for their bedroom, but avoid going all-in on a single colour. Kids can change their minds at warp speed, and you don’t want to end up with a room that’s entirely red if next month, their favourite colour will be blue!

Instead, opt for two or three complementary colours or shades, and introduce them as pops of colour that can easily be updated as their tastes change, for example, by having one feature wall and then choosing soft furnishings such as curtains, bedding and rugs to match.

Frame Artwork

Art prints are a great way to brighten a neutral bedroom, but they can be pricey. Why not use your kid's artwork to brighten up their room instead? Cheap, colourful frames and a few favourite paintings or collages can bring a fun, unique feel to your child’s room.

You can also use picture pockets to hang photographs of all your child’s favourite memories, and these can easily be swapped and changed to include new pictures as you make new memories together.

Make it Functional

As your children grow, their room will need to adapt and change as they do. This means you’ll need to think ahead to avoid constantly needing to update and refresh the furniture and décor.

Opt for multi-function furniture, for example, high-sleepers with a built-in desk that they can use for homework as they get older or repurpose items they no longer need. For example, an old cot can become a child’s desk or a changing unit can be converted into shelving.

Consider whether your child’s room will have enough storage for books, toys and clothes, bearing in mind that their clothes will grow as they do!

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Michelle

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Christmas Gift Guide

Christmas Gift Guide

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Buying presents at Christmas time can be quite difficult and there is nothing worse than rushing round crowded shops looking for ideas of what to buy. Whether you are buying for him, for her, for family, fiends or secret santa it can be a nightmare. I tend to browse the internet for gift ideas and I have added a few ideas below for you to enjoy. Hopefully you might spot something you like or would like to receive which could make your Christmas less stressful.  

World Class offer a wide selection of fragrances for both him and her. The Colour Me range are a perfect choice and the Purple is my favourite. An elegant rich modern fruity chypre fragrance. The fresh top notes of bergamot and watermelon are boosted by a subtle floral accord of pretty jasmin, rose and violet notes. The dry down is a tenacious blend of oakmoss, amber and precious patchouli woods.

 

Personalised Bottles have a large selection of gifts that would be suitable for all. I particular like the Scottish hampers. Using only the finest Scottish foods and gifts, the traditional Scottish gift hampers are a luxury gift for that someone special. As they are based in Scotland, they have access to over 60 Scottish food producers, with a total combined list of over 600 products.

 

I love the smell of gingerbread. Baylis & Harding's latest collection captures the essence of this fabulous aroma and presents it in a range of festive and fun pampering products.

Caramel Fudge, Creamy Marshmallow Frosting, Hot Chocolate and Sweet Gingerbread scents will create a deliciously festive feeling in your bathroom.

My favourite is the Baylis & Harding Beauticology Cream Marshmallow Frosting 50ml Hand & Body Lotion.

Christmas wouldn't be the same if you didn't have some delicious sweets to snack on while watching a Christmas movie. Hope and Greenwood have some amazing sweeties and this is my favourite. Splendid Stocking Fillers is packed with Sugar Mice, Sweet Bag Ginger & Chili, Sweet Bag Peppermint, Sweet Bag Cranberry & Orange and Curly Candy Canes.

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Win Afternoon Tea Set And Some Delicious Kate's Cakes

Win Afternoon Tea Set And Some Delicious Kate's Cakes

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 I love a nice cup of tea and some biscuits for dunking but I would be tempted to leave the biscuits for some nice scones and cakes. There is nothing quite like afternoon tea and cakes. We were recently sent some Kate's Cakes to try which were perfect for an afternoon treat.  

The individually wrapped cake squares were just the right size to nibble on whilst enjoying a cup of tea. We sampled Chocolate Fudge Cake and Lemon Drizzle Cake. I am such a chocoholic so I thought I would have enjoyed the fudge cake more but both were equally as tasty.  

The chocolate fudge cake is topped with chocolate buttercream and curls and the lemon drizzle cake is topped with lemon juice and sugar pearls. The cakes looked bite size when I opened the box but they are very filling and for me the portion size was just right.  

I've teamed up with Kate's Cakes to offer my readers the chance to win an afternoon tea set and some delicious Kate's Cakes   All you have to do is answer this Christmas themed question.   Q: What is your favourite part of the Christmas Holidays?   Remember to leave your answer as a blog comment and only readers who leave a comment will be entered into the draw.   Once you have left your comment more ways to get extra entries will open up on the gleam app below.   Kate's Cakes Afternoon Tea Set     Good Luck   Don't forget to check out my other competitions.     Terms and Conditions Competition closes on Weds 10th December 2014 at 11:59PM Entrants must have a valid UK address Bulk, third party or any other entries using automated software will be disqualified All entrants and entries are checked and verified. All entrants must follow the mandatory step and answer the question as a blog comment. 1 lucky winner will be chosen at random by the Gleam application. Mummy2Monkeys will contact the lucky winner within 1 day of the competition closing The winner must respond within 28 days. If no response a new winner will be chosen. The prize is a Kate's Cakes Afternoon Tea Set By entering this competition you give permission for me to pass on your details to the promoter. Only for the winner. There is no cash alternative

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Exploring Internet Safety With Your Child - A Guide For Parents

Exploring Internet Safety With Your Child - A Guide For Parents

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Disclosure - This is a collaborative post. 

The internet is a vast and fascinating place, filled with endless opportunities for learning, creativity, and connection. Much like the real world, it offers both exciting possibilities and potential dangers. As parents, it’s essential to teach our children how to explore the internet safely and stay safe online especially as they grow and start to navigate this digital space more independently.

As a family with an 11-year-old son, we understand the challenges of balancing internet freedom and safety. Whether your child is just starting to use the internet or is already familiar with social media and online gaming, setting boundaries and teaching safe practices is key to ensuring they have a positive experience online.

Whenever your child uses the Internet, it should be done in an open space where you can assist them and monitor what they are doing. Some families choose to use a secure VPN so that your IP address is hidden and therefore you cannot be tracked or traced. 

In this post, we’ll cover practical tips for exploring internet safety with your child and how to foster an open, trusting environment that encourages safe internet use.

Why Internet Safety Matters

The internet is like a vast city, teeming with both trustworthy sources and those with ill intentions. From online scams to inappropriate content, children can unknowingly stumble into risky situations. As parents, we need to provide guidance to help them avoid these hazards.

At home, we've always made internet safety a priority for our son. It’s an ongoing conversation, and one that evolves as he gets older and more curious about the online world. We want him to enjoy the benefits of the internet while understanding its risks.

Set Clear Guidelines from the Start

It’s important to establish rules for internet use as soon as your child starts using it. Make sure they know that their online activities should take place in an open, shared space where you can monitor them. For example, our son uses his tablet in the living room where we can easily check in on what he’s doing.

One of the first steps we took was setting up parental controls on devices. Many systems, like smartphones and tablets, have built-in tools that allow you to limit screen time, restrict certain websites, and control which apps can be downloaded. Using these controls helps create a safer online environment for your child.

Another tip is to consider using a Virtual Private Network (VPN) to enhance security. A VPN hides your IP address, making it more difficult for others to track your online activity. This extra layer of protection can give both you and your child peace of mind while browsing.

Educate Your Child About Internet Dangers

While setting up safeguards is important, educating your child about the potential dangers they might encounter is crucial. Our son, for example, is at the age where he's becoming more independent online, which is why we’ve made sure to talk to him about the risks.

Start by explaining what the internet is in a simple way that your child can understand. We told our son that the internet is like an enormous library or playground where anyone can share information or play games. However, not everything or everyone in this space can be trusted. This analogy helped him grasp the idea that just because something is online doesn’t make it true or safe.

Encourage your child to ask questions and to come to you if they encounter something they’re unsure about. By fostering an open dialogue, you create an environment where your child feels comfortable discussing their online experiences with you.

Teach Them to Fact-Check Information

One of the greatest challenges of the digital age is separating fact from fiction. As children grow older, they’ll inevitably come across information that’s misleading or outright false. Whether it’s viral news, a social media post, or a YouTube video, teaching your child to fact-check is an invaluable skill.

We’ve taught our son to question the things he reads online. For example, we showed him how to check reputable news sites, like BBC or major newspapers, to verify stories that might seem exaggerated. It’s also important to explain the difference between opinion and fact, especially when it comes to online forums and social media posts.

Protecting Your Child on Social Media

For many children and teens, social media is a huge part of their daily lives. Platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and Snapchat are places where they can connect with friends, share photos, and express themselves. However, social media also comes with risks, including privacy concerns, cyberbullying, and inappropriate content.

Before allowing your child to sign up for social media accounts, set up some basic rules:

Account Privacy 

Ensure their profiles are set to private so that only friends can see their posts.

Personal Information

Teach them not to share personal details, such as their full name, home address, school, or location.

Strangers

Make sure they know not to accept friend requests or messages from people they don’t know in real life.

We have an open-door policy when it comes to our son’s online activities. He knows he can talk to us about anything he sees or hears online without fear of getting into trouble. By maintaining this transparency, we can help him navigate social media more safely.

Use Antivirus Software and Regular Updates

As children become more tech-savvy, they may want to explore new games, apps, and websites. This curiosity can sometimes lead to downloading unsafe software or encountering malware. Make sure you have an up-to-date antivirus program installed on all devices to protect against harmful downloads.

For example, free antivirus programs can be an effective starting point, but consider investing in more comprehensive security software that offers features like real-time protection and parental controls.

We regularly check our son’s device to ensure all apps and software are safe and up to date. Encouraging good habits, like avoiding suspicious links or pop-ups, helps build a strong foundation for safe internet use.

Create an Open Dialogue

Ultimately, the most effective way to protect your child online is to maintain open communication. By regularly discussing internet safety, you can help them feel comfortable coming to you with any concerns or questions. It’s important to create a non-judgmental space where your child knows they won’t be punished for making mistakes online.

In our home, we talk to our son about the importance of being respectful and kind to others online, just as he would be in real life. We remind him that the internet is permanent—once something is posted, it’s difficult to take back.

Exploring the internet with your child is an ongoing process. By setting clear guidelines, educating them about potential dangers, and maintaining an open dialogue, you can help your child navigate the online world safely and responsibly.

For our family, teaching our son about internet safety has been an evolving journey. With each new stage, we adapt our approach to meet his needs, ensuring he can enjoy the benefits of the internet while staying safe. By implementing these strategies, you too can empower your child to explore the internet with confidence.

- If you enjoyed this post leave us a comment.

-  Like us on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram and follow us on our adventures.

- If you have visited any of the attractions mentioned in this post share photos with us on our socials. 

- If this post has helped you in anyway you can Buy Us A Virtual Coffee to say thanks.

- If you would like to work with us please visit on Work With Us page for more details

Michelle

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Cosy-up Your Home with this Ultimate Guide

Cosy-up Your Home with this Ultimate Guide

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Do you feel as though your home isn’t as cosy as it could be? Maybe you want to make a positive change but just have no idea where to begin. Either way, this guide will detail some of the top changes you can make, so you can make sure that you are not wasting any time or money on your property.

Update your Bedding

One of the biggest changes you can make is updating your bedding. Crisp cotton and linen are all great for summer but in winter, flannel is the way to go. Trade your crisp sheets in for ones that are able to hold the warmth in. Jersey is another great option here. While you are at it, it could be worth trying to put a blanket or a quilt over the top of your bed so you have something for when the nights get cold. This is a great way for you to make sure that you are always putting yourself first, and that your bedroom is as warm and cosy as it should be. If you want your pet to have somewhere as comfortable as you do, then now is the best time for you to look into Pet Rebellion personalised dog beds.

Snuggly Throw Pillows

If you don’t have any yet, then now is the time for you to add some snuggly throw pillows to your sofa. Add a few of them and then add some normal fabric ones. If you can do this then you will soon find that you can achieve a nice balance and this can work in your favour overall. Don’t be afraid to explore options such as woolly knit, rich velvet or anything else comforting. If you can do this then you will soon find that it is easier for you to cosy up your space. 

Add Some Warmth

Flat-weave rugs are ideal when it’s warm outside but when the weather grows colder, it’s wise for you to have some smaller rugs dotted around. Try to layer them in strategic positions and also make sure that you put some blankets over the reading chair. Little things like this can make a major difference to your home and you would be surprised at how much it could help your home to feel more like yours.

Soft Lighting

When the nights draw colder, it can be tempting for you to go to bed. One way for you to avoid this would be for you to get some soft lighting installed. The great thing about this is that you can add some warm-toned LEDs and candle-light bulbs. By doing this, you can then make sure that your lighting is never too harsh, and that you always feel like you can stay up if you want to.

Warm-up Window Treatments

If you have linen curtains or sheer curtains then why not trade them out for some nice velvet drapes? When you do this you will soon find that you can take advantage of a nice thermal lining. Besides making your space look and feel warm, you may find that it ends up stopping any cold air from leaking through the windows. If you have single-glazing or if you have windows that let a lot of heat out then improvements like this can save you money on your energy bill too, so keep that in mind.

Rethink your Sofa Cover

If you have a couch that has a cover then why not buy a slipcover? The great thing about doing this is that it makes it way cosier for the colder months. If you want to help yourself here then one thing you can do is choose a deep jewel colour and then a soft fabric. This is a great way for you to add a bit of personality to your space and you would be surprised at what a difference it could make to your space.

Put Memories on Display

Putting memories on display won’t warm up your home but it will help to remind you about what your home should be. A place where you feel safe and secure, surrounded by love. Put up family photos and make sure that you always focus on things that make you happy. Snuggle up with a warm drink and have a have your customised coasters to hand with photo's of the ones you love. If you can do this then you will see a huge improvement in the way that you feel. You will also find that it is easier for you to make your home feel warmer on those cold nights as well,  so make sure that you keep that in mind.

- If you enjoyed this post leave us a comment.

-  Like us on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram and follow us on our adventures.

- If you have visited any of the attractions mentioned in this post share photos with us on our socials. 

- If this post has helped you in anyway you can Buy Us A Virtual Coffee to say thanks.

- If you would like to work with us please visit on Work With Us page for more details

Michelle

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Guys Comfort Doesn’t Have to Mean Boring! Fresh Ways to Wear Casual Looks

Guys Comfort Doesn’t Have to Mean Boring! Fresh Ways to Wear Casual Looks

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The phrase "dress comfortably" usually brings to mind chill-out clothes that are not fit for leaving the house; think threadbare old t-shirts and worn-out jeans. However, this doesn't always have to be the case. Contrary to popular belief, it is entirely possible to look stylish and be comfortable at the same time. So, gentlemen, it's time to step up and spruce up your casual looks without compromising on comfort. Let's find out how.

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Balance bikes vs. Pedal bikes: Which is better for your child?

Balance bikes vs. Pedal bikes: Which is better for your child?

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Choosing the right toddler bike is important, especially when they’re just learning to ride. Balance bikes and pedal bikes both have unique benefits that will help your child get comfortable with biking. Both options help your child learn to ride, but they work in different ways. Balance bikes are ideal for children ages 2-4, helping them develop balance and coordination without the distraction of pedals. Pedal bikes, on the other hand, are better suited for children who are a bit older and have developed more confidence and skills. Each type caters to different stages of growth and ability.

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The Night I Cheated on McBusted

The Night I Cheated on McBusted

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Last week I was faced with a very tough decision. I had double booked on a night out and I had tickets to two very important events. Daddy had booked tickets for me to see The Big Reunion Boyband Tour months ago and in a panic I rushed and booked tickets to McBusted Tourplay event a few weeks ago before they sold out. I didn't check the dates and realised later they were both the same night. How stupid of me.

Now I am a HUGE fan of McBusted so I knew straight away I wanted to go and see Tourplay but I started to think what if they release it on DVD and I've missed all the bands I used to love in the Big Reunion. It was a tough choice and even right up to a few hours before I was still unsure.  Unfortunately for my McBusted boys I chose the Big Reunion. This was the first time I had ever missed a Busted/Mcfly/Mcbusted event in the Northwest. I felt like such a cheat.

I did however try and enjoy myself watching all the bands I used to love. 911, 5ive, A1. They were all so amazing and I had a great night. 

A1 came on first and they sang one of my favourite songs. Caught in the Middle. I love that song.

5ive were great too although I'm not sure how they can still be called 5ive when there was only 3 of them? Maybe they should think of a rename.. how about thr33??

I was so impressed with Damage. They weren't a band that I would listen to when I was younger but they are so slick and their moves were spot on. Nice chilled out music. I liked them a lot.

911 were also amazing. I just love 911 and always have. They are brilliant live and I love the fact that even now Jimmy and Spike can still pull off those dance moves. I'm not a fan of Blue at all, but they sang Sorry is the hardest word. I love that song and I do like their version. Would have been even better if Elton John had of come on too.

Next was 5th Story. Hmmmm not sure what to say really. I just didn't get it. Adam Rickett, Dane Bowers, Kenzie, Gareth Gates and Kavana... just didn't work for me. If I'm honest they looked like they couldn't be bothered.

Lastly 3T wow those guys are amazing. They look and sound amazing and again the same as Damage I wasn't a fan years ago but they can really sing and i'm sure Michael Jackson would be so proud of his nephews. Overall it was a great night and I was glad I went. I avoided twitter when I came home because I didn't want to know about Tourplay but I have heard since that its being released on DVD and Blu Ray YAY. Have you ever double booked for the same night?

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Radiator Covers: The Ultimate Solution to Your Heating Needs

Radiator Covers: The Ultimate Solution to Your Heating Needs

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A radiator is an essential heating element in your home, providing warmth and comfort, especially during the cold winter months. But let's be honest; they're not the most aesthetically pleasing element of your decor. That's where radiator covers come in. Radiator covers are becoming increasingly popular, and not just because they can enhance the look of your home. 

Adds Style to Your Home

Bespoke radiator covers have become popular because they add a touch of style to your home. 

They are available in various designs, styles, and finishes to suit different preferences and requirements. Whether you want a classic, vintage, or modern look for your decor, radiator covers can help you achieve that. Radiator covers come in different designs, which are versatile and can add texture and warmth to your home.

Provides Protection

Radiator covers are popular because they provide protection. If you have children or pets at home, a radiator cover can be a safety feature, shielding them from hot surfaces and preventing burns and accidents. They also protect your radiator from damage by preventing items from being placed on top of them.

Energy Efficient

Another reason for the popularity of radiator covers is their energy efficiency. Radiator covers trap heat, preventing it from escaping through external walls, and direct it towards the room, keeping your home warmer for longer. This leads to less energy wastage and lower heating bills, which is a significant advantage in the long run.

Customisable

Radiator covers can be customised to suit your preferences. Whether you want a specific colour, size, material or design, radiator covers can be made to fit your requirements. You can also add features like bookshelves, cabinets, and benches to serve multiple purposes, which is especially useful if you have limited space in your home.

Convenient

Finally, radiator covers are popular because they are convenient. They are easy to install, remove, and clean, which is useful in case of maintenance or repairs. They don't require any specialised skills or tools, making them accessible to anyone. Radiator covers can also hide unsightly pipes, giving your walls and decor a cleaner look. So, why not spruce up your decor and invest in a mirrored radiator cover today.

- If you enjoyed this post leave us a comment.

-  Like us on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram and follow us on our adventures.

- If you have visited any of the attractions mentioned in this post share photos with us on our socials. 

- If this post has helped you in anyway you can Buy Us A Virtual Coffee to say thanks.

- If you would like to work with us please visit on Work With Us page for more details

Michelle

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What Are My Child's Options Post-16?

What Are My Child's Options Post-16?

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As your child approaches the age of 16, it's natural to start considering their educational and career options beyond compulsory education. The choices available to them at this pivotal stage can significantly shape their future. In this blog, we'll explore various post-16 options, helping you understand the different paths your child can take and how to support them in making informed decisions.

Further Education Colleges

Further Education colleges offer a wide range of courses, including A-levels, vocational qualifications, apprenticeships, and access courses. They provide a diverse learning environment where students can pursue academic or practical subjects, tailoring their education to their interests and strengths.

Sixth Form Colleges

Sixth Form colleges are dedicated to providing education for 16-19-year-olds. They focus mainly on A-levels and other academic qualifications, preparing students for university or higher-level apprenticeships.

Apprenticeships

Apprenticeships offer a combination of on-the-job training and classroom learning. They allow young people to earn while they learn, gaining practical skills and experience in a specific industry. Apprenticeships are available in a wide range of sectors, from engineering and healthcare to digital marketing and hospitality.

A Levels

A Levels are advanced level qualifications typically studied over two years. They provide in-depth knowledge and are often required for entry into university. A-levels are offered in a wide range of subjects, allowing students to specialise in their chosen areas. These are commonly on offer in senior schools in Bath, as well as in secondary schools and private colleges.

International Baccalaureate

The International Baccalaureate is an internationally recognised qualification that provides a holistic education encompassing academic subjects, creativity, activity, service (CAS), and theory of knowledge (TOK). It's an excellent option for students looking for a broad and globally-focused curriculum.

Vocational Qualifications

Vocational qualifications, such as BTECs and NVQs, are designed to provide practical skills and knowledge for specific industries. These courses are hands-on and prepare students for employment in areas like engineering, business, health, and social care.

Higher Education

University is a popular choice for many students, offering the chance to specialise in a particular field and gain a degree. It's essential to research different courses and institutions to find the best fit for your child's interests and career goals.

Gap Year or Volunteering

Some students choose to take a gap year to travel, work, or engage in volunteer activities. This can provide valuable life experiences and help them gain a clearer sense of their interests and goals before committing to further education.

Work or Apprenticeship

Some young people may choose to enter the workforce directly after school. This can be a good option for those who have a clear idea of their career path and prefer hands-on learning.

Combination of Options

It's important to remember that these options aren't mutually exclusive. Your child may choose to mix and match, such as studying part-time while working, or pursuing further education while volunteering.

Supporting your child in making post-16 decisions is a crucial step in their educational journey. Encourage open conversations about their interests, strengths, and aspirations. Additionally, seek guidance from teachers, career advisors, and professionals in different fields to help your child explore their options thoroughly. By offering support and information, you'll empower your child to make informed choices that pave the way for a fulfilling and successful future.

- If you enjoyed this post leave us a comment.

-  Like us on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram and follow us on our adventures.

- If you have visited any of the attractions mentioned in this post share photos with us on our socials. 

- If this post has helped you in anyway you can Buy Us A Virtual Coffee to say thanks.

- If you would like to work with us please visit on Work With Us page for more details

Michelle

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