What Parents Need to Know About Pokemon Cards

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Is Pokemon the only thing that your kids have been talking about lately? Are they bugging you to get them the latest booster pack because they want to build a stronger deck than their friends? You came to the right place. Pokemon has been popular for the last twenty years but ever since TCG launched, collecting cards and playing with them has become the favourite hobby for most children.

Whether you want to learn about Pokemon cards to know if they are safe for your kids or just want to surprise them by learning the rules, you have arrived at the right place. Today I will break down what Pokemon cards are all about and if they are a good hobby for kids or if you should be concerned about it.

boy looking at pokemon cards


Is Pokemon Safe for Kids?
One of the first questions that might come to mind is whether Pokemon cards are appropriate for children. Rest assured, the world of Pokemon is designed with young audiences in mind, so it’s as kid friendly as it gets. The content of the game and the stories depicted on the cards are suitable for kids, focusing on themes of friendship, adventure, and the importance of strategy over violence. It's a game that encourages critical thinking and problem-solving, as players decide the best moves and strategies to win battles.

Moreover, playing the Pokemon Trading Card Game (aka TCG) can be a social activity that helps kids develop interpersonal skills. Through trading and playing with peers, children learn about fairness, respect, and sportsmanship. While competitive, the game is rooted in a culture of respect among players, making it a positive environment for children to be a part of. As with any hobby, it's good practice to stay involved in your child's interest in Pokemon cards, ensuring they're playing with a suitable group and managing their collection responsibly.

Where Do You Get Pokemon Cards?
For those wondering where to start with expanding or starting a Pokemon card collection, there are many options available. Pokemon cards can be purchased at a variety of retailers, from big box stores to local game shops. The latter often serve as community hubs where players can meet to trade cards and learn more about the game. Besides physical stores, online retailers are a great choice for buying new cards. If you really want to surprise your kids for their birthday, you can online retailers that sell authentic Japanese cards. This type of cards are the most sought after because of their original designs.

Another exciting aspect of collecting Pokemon cards is the community-driven events and releases. Many stores host tournaments and release parties for new card sets, creating a lively and engaging atmosphere for enthusiasts of all ages. These events can be a great way for kids to immerse themselves in the game, meet other players, and even win some new cards to add to their collection. Keeping an eye on the official Pokemon website or your local game store's calendar can give you a heads-up on these fun gatherings.

How to Play Pokemon TCG
Learning to play the Pokemon TCG might seem challenging at first glance, but it's actually quite straightforward once you get the hang of it. The game involves two players acting as Pokemon trainers, using their cards to "battle" against each other. Each player has a deck of Pokemon cards, each with its own attacks, strengths, and weaknesses. The goal is to use your cards to knock out your opponent's Pokemon by strategically playing your Pokemon, energy cards (which power attacks), and trainer cards (which provide special abilities or advantages).

Starting with a starter deck is a great way for beginners to learn the rules and get a feel for the game. These pre-constructed decks are balanced to provide a fair and enjoyable experience for new players. Many communities also offer workshops or casual play sessions for beginners, making it easy to learn the ropes. Engaging in the game together with your child can be a wonderful bonding experience, offering a blend of learning, strategy, and fun. As players advance, they can customise their decks with cards from booster packs, tailoring their strategy to their preferred style of play.

Little J has collected Pokémon for years now and is building quite a collection. I actually enjoy playing the card game with him, it's lots of fun and I definitely learn something new every time we play. 


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Michelle
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49 Things To Do In Manchester This Month (MARCH 2024)

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Manchester is one of my favourite cities as it has everything you need for a day out, weekened away or even a week. Our What's On Guide will give you lots of ideas on how to spend a weekend with 38 things to do in Manchester this month. There is plenty to keep you busy whether you are spending it with the family, friends, your partner or on your own. 
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9 Inflatable and Trampoline Parks Close To Liverpool

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Indoor inflatable play centres and trampoline parks are perfect for children who enjoy lots of bouncing fun. Not only are they ideal for rainy days but they can also give children the chance to burn off any excess energy especially if they have been stuck indoors due to bad weather. There are plenty of inflatable and trampoline parks to choose from and I have found 9 of the best close to Liverpool.

air unlimited


Where Can I Find A Trampoline Park In Liverpool?

Air Unlimited, Unit 4, Compass East, Speke, Liverpool, L24 1YH
Air Unlimited has something Amazing for everybody. Whether you like to bounce, slide, run or jump. It is adrenaline fuelled fun for the whole family! Air Unlimited's Urban Indoor Playgrounds are Located in Liverpool and Burnley, hosting plenty of activities, offers, events and Air-Mazing times!

Prices start at £11.95

Air Unlimited grip socks must be worn and cost £2.50

Open times vary depending on the day of the week but do start as early as 9:30am

Party bookings are available and prices start at £120 (for 10 children)

Find out more by visiting Air Unlimited or read our review 

Flip Out, liverpool


Flip Out, Unit V6 Topham Drive, Aintree Racecourse Retail & Business Park, Aintree, Liverpool, L9 5AL 
Flip Out, Liverpool is not just a trampoline park, it is so much more. Flip Out is home to a 65ft donut slide, total wipeout, cyber towers, drop slide, stunt boxes, a huge interconnected trampoline arena and lots more.

The arena is split in to different sections. There are steps down away from the trampolines which lead you in to an area that has a play structure, donut slide, and climbing frame. It's a great addition to the trampolines and the boys spent a lot of time there, climbing and sliding. 

Prices start at £5 depending on age and session booked

Flip Out socks must be worn and cost £2

All spectators must purchase a spectator ticket for £1

Open times vary depending on the day of the week but do start as early as 9:30am

Party bookings are available and prices start at £22 per person (for a minimum of 10 children)

Find out more by visiting Flip Out or read our review

Ninja warrior, Liverpool


Ninja Warrior UK (Liverpool), Unit L3, New Mersey Retail, Liverpool L24 8QB
Ninja Warrior UK Adventure Park is a supervised activity and fitness venue inspired by ITV’s hit programme Ninja Warrior UK! You can climb, balance, jump and swing across different obstacles using and developing your Ninja skills, plus they also have the famous Warped Wall for every aspiring Ninja to conquer. 

In addition to the fixed Ninja obstacles, they also have a huge inflatable, Mount Sasuke to clamber up, and the Mini Ninjas soft play. A great place for supervised family activities and for keeping fit.

Prices start at £3.50 depending on age and session booked

Ninja Warrior socks must be worn and cost £2

Open times vary depending on the day of the week but do start as early as 9am

Party bookings are available and prices start at £10 per person (for a minimum of 10 children)

Find out more by visiting Ninja Warrior or read our review

jump inc, liverpool


Jump Inc, Unit C-F, Hunts Cross Shopping Centre, Triumph Way, Speke Hall Rd, L24 9GB
Jump Inc Liverpool is a brand new, indoor activity playground with interconnecting trampolines, the UK’s 3rd Robokeeper, laser tag, reaction walls, 5 a side footy cage and loads more, located at Huntscross Shopping Centre. Huge inflatables, battle hoops,  wipeout, a travelator, a two-storey assault course,  plus six state-of-the-art party rooms!

Prices start at £7.50 depending on age and session booked

Jump Inc socks must be worn and cost £2.50

Open times vary depending on the day of the week but do start as early as 9am

Party bookings are available and prices start at £15.95 per person (for a minimum of 10 children)

Find out more by visiting Jump Inc

bounce house, liverpool


Bounce House, Units 1 & 2 Glacier Buildings, Harrington Road, Brunswick Business Park, L3 4BH (For Sat Nav: L3 4ED)
Bounce House is packed with high slides, assault course, jump bags, trampolines and so much MORE! They have something to keep everyone entertained whatever the age. Located only 1 mile from Liverpool’s City Centre.

Prices start at £12 depending on age and session booked

Open times vary depending on the day of the week but do start 10am

Party bookings are available and prices start at £18 per person (for a minimum of 10 children)

Find out more by visiting Bounce House

air nation


AirNation, Lowe Street, Saint Helens, Merseyside, WA10 2QS
You've all been on a bouncy castle before ...okay but, have you ever been on a bouncy castle the size of a small planet??? Well here it is, a custom designed bouncy area tweaked for one thing, and one thing alone: MASSES OF FUN. With more activities than you can shake a stick at, you won't know where to start.

Prices start at £6.49 depending on age and session booked

Open times vary depending on the day of the week but do start 9am

Party bookings are available and prices start at £13 per person (for a minimum of 12 children)

Find out more by visiting AirNation

velocity, widnes


Velocity, Unit 1, Easter Park, Bennetts Lane, Shell Green, Widnes, Cheshire, WA8 0GW
Velocity Widnes is the best place to have fun! Home to the biggest indoor inflatable in the UK you can enjoy whatever your age or ability. The huge inflatable area features two extreme drop slides, a giant slide into the UK’s largest ball pool, a gladiator arena with podiums to battle from, high climbing wall and lots more. There is also a dedicated arena for under 4s that includes its own slide and ball pool.

Prices start at £6 depending on age and session booked

Open times vary depending on the day of the week but do start 10am

Party bookings are available and prices start at £15.50 per person (for a minimum of 10 children)

Find out more by visiting Velocity

inflation parks, wirral


Inflation Parks, St Mary's College (St. George's Road Entrance), Wallasey, CH45 3LN
Jump to it at the Wirral’s first and only inflatable theme park in St Mary’s College in the heart of Wallasey Village. The huge interconnected inflatable arena is packed with an assault course, climbing wall, maze, death slides and more.

Prices start at £7.50 depending on age and session booked

Open times vary depending on the day of the week but do start 9am

Find out more by visiting Inflation Parks

sector 8, Liverpool


Sector 8, UNIT 2 Broad Lane L11 1AD
Sector8 is Liverpool’s best place to have a Awesome time. Plus it’s great exercise disguised with fun! Great adrenaline -filled fun that you and your friends will sure to love! Sector 8 has a fabulous indoor inflatable theme park, with all your fun filled inflatable activities joined together under one roof to enjoy whatever your age or ability. The huge inflatable arena features a huge ball pool, inflatable climbing wall, lots of mega slides, plus lots more exciting features.and lots more.

Prices start at £7.50 depending on age and session booked

Open times vary depending on the day of the week so check before booking.

Party bookings are available and prices start at £13.50 per person (for a minimum of 10 children)

Find out more by visiting Sector 8

Have you been to any inflatable or trampoline parks yet? Which was your favourite?

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                                  Michelle
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Scarecrow Pop Star Festival At Tatton Park

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This half term we headed to Tatton Park to take part in their Scarecrow Festival trail. We have done many Tatton Park Trails over the years and they are always so much fun and we get to see the Tatton Park estate which is so beautiful. The Scarecrow Festival this year offers visitors the chance roam the gardens in search of 21 Pop Star scarecrows.

beatles scarecrows


Scarecrow Pop Star Festival, Tatton Park, WA16 6QN (Sat Nav WA16 6SG)
The Scarecrow Pop Star Festival runs from 10th February till 25th February 2024 and will be the perfect day out this half term with the kids. You will find all the scarecrows inside Tatton Park gardens. There is no map however all scarecrows were easy to find and it was lots of fun guessing who they are. 

freddie mercury scarecrow


This was our first time visiting the Scarecrow Festival however it seems to be an annual event and we are already looking forward to the next one. 

amy whinehouse scarecrow


As the Scarecrow Festival is located in the gardens, normal garden and farm opening times and entry prices apply

It is open 10th Feb - 25th Feb however it is closed on Monday 12 February and Monday 19 February.

tatton park gardens


As well as taking part in the Scarecrow Festival, you can also just enjoy a stroll around the huge gardens. There are 50 acres of gardens to explore offering breathtaking views.

Japanese gardens


The Japanese garden can only be viewed from the perimeter unless you join one of the special guided tours which take place every Wednesday and Saturday from 23rd March 2024

As well as the gardens you can also have lots of fun on the farm, visit the Mansion or enjoy a bite to eat at the Stables Restaurant. 

For more information on Tatton Park including what's on, opening times and entry costs check out their website.

I don't want to give away any spoilers to who's who however we found some easier than others to guess and you can check the list at the entrance to the gardens. If you are not planning to visit and would like to have a guess at all 21 Scarecrows then you can check out our photos on Instagram.

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- If you enjoyed this post leave us a comment.

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Michelle
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7 Romantic Restaurants In Liverpool, Perfect For Valentine's Day

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Valentines Day is a day to celebrate love and what better way than to head to a romantic restaurant for an evening of delicious food and drink and good company. When it comes to romantic restaurants in Liverpool there is plenty of choice but we have selected seven of our favourites.

man and woman clinking champagne glasses
The Cowshed Liverpool

The Cowshed 104 Seel St, Liverpool L1 4BL
"Welcome to the house of beef, a place for steaks, drinks and good people. If you love beef as much as we do, you're in the right place!"

Valentines Day Menu is available on 14th February only - Meat Eaters £58 per head Non-Meat Eaters £30 per head.


Stanleys Bar and Grill Liverpool



Titanic Hotel, Stanley's Bar & Grill, Stanley Dock, Regent Road, Liverpool L3 0AN
"The theatre-style restaurant, Stanley’s Bar and Grill, is the perfect place to meet family, friends, and colleagues. You can choose to watch our Culinary Team create magic in the kitchen or simply enjoy the view overlooking the waters of Stanley Dock."

Valentines Day Dinner available on 14th February with a special offer of  Two glasses of Lanson Champagne and a box of Luxury Chocolates for £30


browns restaurant Liverpool


Browns Liverpool, 43 Paradise Street, Liverpool One, L1 3EU
"Perfect for all occasions, from intimate dinners to family gatherings and celebrations, we offer relaxed and stylish dining and drinking with beautiful bars serving hand-crafted cocktails and a fine range of wine, Champagne and artisan spirits."

Created especially for Valentine’s Day enjoy a choice of two or three-course set menu available on the 14th February. Two courses is priced at £37 and three courses for £43.


steak platter at Miller and Carter, Liverpool



Miller & Carter Albert Dock, Atlantic Pavilion, Albert Dock, Liverpool, Merseyside, L3 4AF
"At Miller & Carter we know a thing or two about steak. In fact, we could say that we're one of the best steakhouses in Liverpool. But we'd rather leave that to your judgement."

Enjoy a 3-course Set Menu from £37.50 which will be available all day from Sunday 11th February to Saturday 17th February so you can still enjoy Valentines even if you can't make it on the 14th!


ego at the punchbowl


Ego at The Punchbowl, Lunt Road, Sefton Village, Liverpool, L29 7WA
Enjoy freshly cooked Mediterranean food, cocktails and local cask ale, served with a smile at exceptional value at Ego at The Punchbowl in Sefton.

Join us this Valentine’s Day and fall in love with our special menu. Indulge with your loved one and celebrate together over 3 courses, including starters, mains and desserts, with plenty of delicious options to make your evening one to remember. We’re here to make this Valentine’s an unforgettable experience for you at Ego at The Punchbowl, Sefton.


La Famiglia Bar & Restaurant,
photo credit - https://ymliverpool.com/

La Famiglia Bar & Restaurant, 12 Stanley Street, Liverpool, L1 6AF
"La Famiglia Bar & Restaurant is the perfect place to indulge in the finest Italian food whilst enjoying a fantastic glass of wine or cocktail."

Book for a romantic Valentine's meal before 31st January and get a free glass of prosecco each on arrival.


the old stables at Allerton Manor



The Old Stables, Allerton Manor, Allerton Road, Liverpool, L18 3JT
"A range of menus featuring classic British dishes, made using locally sourced ingredients, it’s the perfect place to celebrate a special occasion, or simply grab a bite to eat."

Celebrate Valentines Day with our 3 course set menu. £40 per person. Includes Strawberry Fizz Cocktail on arrival.

Make A Reservation Online

Have you visited any of the restaurants before? What are your thoughts?

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- If you enjoyed this post leave us a comment.

-  Like us on FacebookTwitter 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. 

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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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The Best Family Shows To Book in London this Half Term

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Disclosure - this is a collaborative post

When it comes to watching a show at the theatre you really can't beat visiting London. We have travelled many times to the capital to watch shows such as Wicked, Phantom of the Opera, Fame and Grease. There's something magical about heading to the West End and if you are looking for something to do with the kids this half term then there are plenty of family shows in London to choose from. 

view from the circle in a theatre

It's only in the last year or so that we have enjoyed going to the theatre as a family, until then it was just the two of us. However there are so many family friendly shows to see it's a lovely day out with the kids. 

the lion king musical poster



The Lion King, Lyceum Theatre, Lyceum Theatre, ‍21 Wellington St, London WC2E 7RQ
The Lion King is probably one of my favourite shows I have ever seen. I am a huge fan of Disney so I was always going to love this, but it really does appeal to everyone of all ages. Everything about the show will take your breath away from the set, the music and the amazing puppets that grace the stage. It really is a show that you can watch over and over and it's no surprise that its has won multi awards.

The Lion King tells the tale of a young lion, Simba. Following the death of his father, Simba starts a new life away from the African Pride Lands. When responsibility beckons, Simba must return to his homeland to take on his foes and regain his crown as king.

Mrs Doubtfire musical poster


Mrs. Doubtfire The Musical, 210 Shaftesbury Avenue, London, WC2H 8DP
Mrs. Doubtfire The Musical went straight on my bucket list as soon as it was announced that they were creating a musical version of the much loved 90's classic movie, Mrs Doubtfire. Reviews for the show have been amazing stating it's "A Surefire Hit' and "She's On Fire".  

For those unfamiliar with the story out-of-work actor Daniel will do anything for his kids. After losing custody in a messy divorce, he creates the alter ego of Scottish nanny Euphegenia Doubtfire in a desperate attempt to stay in their lives. As his new character takes on a life of its own, Mrs. Doubtfire teaches Daniel more than he bargained for about how to be a father.

wicked poster


Wicked, Apollo Victoria Theatre, 17 Wilton Rd, London SW1V 1LG
Wicked is the show I have seen the most, first seeing it at the Apollo Victoria, then when it toured the UK a few years back and I have tickets booked again for this year when it heads to the North West. I didn't know anything about the show when I first saw it so I had no idea what to expect. It was the first show that ever made me cry (both times) and no doubt again when I see it next. 

Wicked imagines the fascinating backstory of Glinda the Good and the Wicked Witch of the West from The Wizard of Oz. Discover the decisions and events that shaped the two characters’ renowned destinies, as the unlikely friends begin their journey together in this heartwarming tale.

frozen musical


Frozen the Musical, Theatre Royal Drury Lane, Catherine St, London WC2B 5JF
A classic Disney movie adapted for the stage. I don't think anyone could have imagined how popular Disney's Frozen would be but  Frozen The Musical is proving to be just as popular. This is another show that's on my bucket list as I absolutely love the movie and can only imagine how magical it would be to see on stage. 

When Queen Elsa’s hidden powers plunge the land of Arendelle into an eternal winter, her sister Anna sets out to find her and save the kingdom before it’s too late. But as the storm rages on, both sisters must learn that only an act of true love can thaw a frozen heart.

sister act the musical poster


Sister Act, Dominion Theatre, 268-269 Tottenham Ct Rd, London W1T 7AQ
Playing at the first ever theatre in London I visited, Sister Act is up there with one of my favourite shows. As a huge fan of the movie and it's leading lady at the time Alexandra Burke I loved everything about the show when I saw it on it's UK tour a few years ago. It a feel good show with amazing music that will have you dancing in your seat. 

A story of music, mishaps and nuns on the run is a joyous and uplifting tale of finding your voice and singing out, with your sisters by your side.

There are lots more shows to see this half term in London and you can find out more, prices and book tickets by visiting London Box Office. 

What is your favourite show and what show would you love to see in the future?

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- If you enjoyed this post leave us a comment.

-  Like us on FacebookTwitter 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. 

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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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