5 Tips to Decorate Your Child’s Room

5 Tips to Decorate Your Child’s Room

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Disclosure - This is a collaborative post 

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 Light Trail At Dunham Massey

Christmas Light Trail At Dunham Massey

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Updated October 2024

We absolutely love a good Christmas light trail, and it’s become a tradition for our family to visit at least one or two every year. Our fascination with festive lights began with the iconic Blackpool Illuminations, a place I’ve visited since I was little. Over the years, light trails have grown in popularity, becoming a magical way to kick off the holiday season, and now Christmas light trails are one of our must-do family activities each December. 

What To Expect at Dunham Massey, Altrincham WA14 4SJ

Prepare to be dazzled by an incredible after-dark illuminated trail through Dunham Massey’s beautifully festive gardens. This light trail is a firm favourite on the UK’s Christmas calendar, and it’s easy to see why. Over a million twinkling lights shine across the gardens, while festive tunes fill the air. It’s the perfect way to get into the Christmas spirit.

Walk through sparkling tunnels of light, see stunning reflections on the lakes, and be amazed by larger-than-life illuminations. The fire garden is an absolute must-see, with its flickering flames adding a warm, cosy glow to the chilly evening air. And of course, don’t forget to catch a glimpse of Father Christmas along the way—it’s the perfect opportunity for a family photo!

When Can You Visit?

Dunham Massey's Christmas light trail runs on selected dates from 15th November to 1st January 2025, with time slots starting from 4:30 pm to 8:15 pm. Be sure to book in advance as slots fill up quickly!

Ticket Prices

Off-peak: £19 for adults, £12.50 for children

Standard: £22.50 for adults, £14.50 for children

Peak: £24.50 for adults, £17 for children  

Family tickets are available, and carers go free with a valid proof of status.

Book Tickets Online

How Long Does The Trail Last?

The trail is roughly one mile long, but how long you spend exploring depends on you. We like to take our time, stopping to admire every twinkling light and grabbing a hot drink at the halfway point. You can even toast marshmallows if you want to add an extra cosy touch to your night!

Food, Drink and Rides

There are plenty of food and drink options available at the start, midpoint, and end of the trail, so you can enjoy hot chocolates, mulled wine, and festive treats throughout. Fairground rides are also available, adding an extra layer of fun for the little ones. Just note that additional charges apply for food, drinks, and rides.

Parking Information

Parking is available onsite and must be pre-booked when purchasing your tickets. If you're a National Trust member, parking is free with a valid membership card, as long as you book it in advance. Non-members will need to pay an additional charge for parking.

What Should I Wear?

Since the event is entirely outdoors, be sure to dress for the weather! Wear warm, waterproof clothing and sturdy shoes, as some parts of the trail can get muddy.

Our Thoughts

This was will be our fourth year visiting Dunham Massey’s Christmas light trail, and each year, it seems to get better and better so we cannot wait to experience it for 2024. Last year, John and I went on our own, which was a different experience from our usual family outing. While it was lovely to wander through the lights at our own pace and enjoy the festive atmosphere, we did miss having the boys with us. So this year it will definitely be a family outing.

For families, couples, or groups of friends, a Christmas light trail is the perfect way to celebrate the holiday season. If you haven’t experienced one yet, make sure to add it to your 2024 Christmas bucket list!

Book Tickets Online

Ready to Plan Your Visit?

Christmas light trails have quickly become a beloved part of our festive season, and they offer a truly magical way to create lasting memories. Whether you’re planning to visit Dunham Massey or another light trail across the UK, make sure to book your tickets early and wrap up warm! 

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EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT VISITING BLACKPOOL ILLUMINATIONS

- If you enjoyed this post leave us a comment.

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

Michelle

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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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Gift Ideas For The Kids

Gift Ideas For The Kids

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Disclosure - We were sent the products below for the purpose of this post. All thoughts, opinions and photographs are our unless stated. This post contains affiliate links.

I love buying Christmas gifts and always search for inspiration. If you're the same, explore our Gift Ideas for kids, featuring a range of products perfect for even the hardest to buy for! And if you’re looking for gift for adults this Christmas, don’t miss our Christmas Gift Guide too!

Unbox your Gel Blaster and get blasting! The rechargeable Gel Blaster Surge shoots water based beads or “Gellets” that burst on impact. This innovative blaster is ready to blast straight out of the box – fully charged with a hopper full of hydrated Gellets. Think airsoft but with no pain, stain or clean up, bring the battle to the garden, park or anywhere else you can think of.

Double your dart blasting fun with the Nerf Elite 2.0 Double Punch motorised blaster that has double barrels and double clips! The Double Punch dart blaster features 2 rapid alternating barrels that move back and forth as you blast darts. The Nerf automatic blaster includes 2 clips, each with 10-dart capacity, so you can unleash 20 darts in a row. This blaster includes an amazing 50 Nerf Elite 2.0 foam darts, giving you more than enough darts to reload both clips twice, with darts to spare.

Squad up with Squishmallows Take4, the family game for any Squishmallows-lover! Looking for a fun group game? In this fast-paced, quick-thinking game, you'll race to collect 4 of a Squad before your opponents. Choose which of the four cards you want from the ones in play—but watch out. If you reach for the same one as someone else, you'll have to race to grab the exclusive Benny The Bigfoot Squishmallow in the center! Perfect game for game night with your friends, family, at school or at home—no matter where or when, you're bound to love it.

Grab a card, read the question, then start the timer! Players only have 5 seconds to name 3 answers to the question—resulting in hilarious goofs, silly answers, and lots of laughter! This Harry Potter-themed game is perfect for fans of all ages.

If you loved Screwball Scramble, you’ll be itching to Level Up and reach for the top of Screwball Scramble Level Up. As you lunge and stretch up the cliff edge, timing and dexterity are tops as you mix patience with speed and cat-like reactions. Play solo to set a time and then beat it, or go head-to-head with family and friends

Word Poppers from TOMY Games is the loopy letter juggling game where fingers scramble to grab letters and make up words before it’s too late. Round by round, players turn over their Word card as the timer starts to tick. The first player to score 25 points is the Word Poppers winner!

With My Very Own Solar System from Brainstorm Toys, you can explore the wonders of the universe from the comfort of your own room! This amazing remote controlled, motorised mobile has eight detailed, colour, planets that orbit the full sun. By day, an impressive and educational addition to any room and by night the illuminated sun is an attractive night light making it perfect for bedtime.

The magnetic Megasketcher Classic drawing board has a unique special screen that allows budding artists to draw clear, crisp pictures. The pictures magically disappear with one sweep of the eraser ready to start again. There is a pen to draw with and four shape stampers are also included.

NOMO’s Choc Fudge Reindeer is brand new and exclusive to Sainsbury’s. Filled with rich, decadent fudge, it makes a perfect treat or stocking stuffer for all chocolate lovers—kids and adults alike. 

The Cookie Dough Reindeer is filled with delicious cookie dough filling and coated in creamy plant-based chocolate. It was the top selling vegan and free from chocolate product in 2022

The festive Kids’ Selection Box contains two Crispy Mos, two Nomster Lollies, and a Cookie Dough Reindeer. This follows the success of NOMO’s new Crispy Mo product this year, designed to ensure that no child needs to miss out on delicious treats. The colourful packaging and Christmas activities on the inside of the box make it perfect as a gift or stocking stuffer for kids.  

Reindeer Hollow is made with delicious creamy choc and free from dairy, gluten, egg and nuts, the adorable Reindeer Hollow makes the perfect stocking filler or gift for a loved one (or yourself) this Christmas. 

Bops N Tops range features collectable characters from some of the world’s most-loved franchises, including PAW Patrol, Peppa Pig, Disney, My Little Pony and the Marvel Universe. The character pencil toppers are the perfect way to personalise a pencil, whilst the Bops each have a unique stamp design to decorate stationery, providing the ideal way to leave your mark.

Puzzle Palz, the 3D jigsaw puzzle eraser, is an award-winning pocket money toy which offers collectable fun for kids aged three years and over. Exclusive to Sambro, they make perfect stocking fillers  for little collectors. Puzzle Palz™ erasers are built using the puzzle pieces, creating characters or vehicles from popular licenses, including PAW Patrol™, Lilo & Stitch, Marvel, Disney Princess and more.

Oilatum Junior Sweet Dreamz Bath Bubbles which contains 'DreamScentz’ sleep enhancing technology are gentle enough to be used from day 1 and contain specially selected naturally derived cleansers and moisturising ingredients. Oilatum  Junior Sweet Dreamz Head to Toe Wash for dry and eczema prone skin soothes, moisturises and cleanses delicate skin. Leaves hair soft and shiny

Have you seen the New Forest unicorn? You may be lucky enough to see the unicorn the next time you’re in the forest! It may be hiding behind the Gorse by the Stone Water Trough at Wootton. Maybe Willow was right... it may go to Setley Pond for a drink! It could even be visiting the Trolls that live under Wootton Bridge. The New Forest Ponies all roam free and wild within The New Forest, if you visit, please remember to look and to admire them, but never ever touch or feed them.

Teddy and the Tygers, explores how Teddy adjusted to the arrival of new kittens in the family, showcasing the importance of acceptance and love when welcoming a new family member. Ideal for young children who may be experiencing similar situations, the book has been praised for its gentle and positive approach to change and adaptation.

Teddy Versus the Underwear takes readers on a hilarious journey of intrigue when the family’s underwear mysteriously disappears. Everyone in the household is baffled, but little do they know that their beloved Teddy might be behind the missing undergarments.

Mister Mishkins' Apothecary, features Mister Mishkins a magical cat, who runs an Apothecary on Mosaic Street - a mysterious place that mysteriously appears in town overnight and is only visible to those in need. Whenever anyone enters the Apothecary, MisterMishkins listens as they share their troubles and fears, before turning to the rows of wooden drawers where, hidden within, is an eclectic mix of cats. These cats take whoever needs them on a magical journey of transformation,

replacing negative emotions with hope, optimism, and just a small sprinkling of magic.

Little Brian Christmas Window Kit includes 6 Window Paint Sticks, 12 Christmas Stencils, 1 Santa Stop Here Sign Stencil. The perfect kit to paint your own Christmas window decorations! Use your stencils to paint and discover your Christmas themed designs easily!

Little Brian Paint Sticks Classic are super silky paints in 12 bold vibrant colours, perfect for painting without the mess. Just twist up and down like a glue stick. Paint Sticks can be used on a variety of surfaces, paper, card, wood and even glass and it dries within less than 60 seconds.

What gifts are you buying this Christmas?

Michelle

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