The new school year always feels like a fresh start, and this issue is all about helping families ease into September with positivity and balance. Our September Reset feature is packed with ideas to kickstart routines, alongside SNAP Charity’s practical advice for families with children who have additional needs.
We’ve also got plenty to inspire at home— from Baker Ross on the educational power of craft (with some lovely projects to try yourself), to a simple oat and apple cookie recipe that’s perfect for lunch boxes. For little ones, don’t miss Little Monsters House of Fun’s brand-new Mini Monster Classes for babies and toddlers.
As always, we’ve rounded up local events in our What’s On guide, plus the latest community news, and Tees Law is on hand with expert insight for families navigating legal matters.
Thank you for reading —I hope this issue gives you a boost as we head into the new season.
Sarah Measom Editor
Editorial Team
Creative Director - Jack Neale
Front Cover - Samantha Scott
Faye Bradshaw - Copy Editor
September Reset: Starting the New School Year Right The Educational Power of Craft: Baker Ross
Mini Monster Classes
benefits of baby & toddler classes from Little Monsters House of Fun
on
Tees Law
The September Reset
Let’s be honest — January might get all the attention for “fresh starts,” but for most parents, September is when the real reset happens. The kids are back in their classrooms, there’s a whiff of new pencil cases in the air, and we’re all quietly wondering how on earth the summer went so fast.
Whether your child is heading into Reception, moving up a year, or learning at home, September brings a sense of new beginnings. It’s that gentle nudge to get back into a rhythm that works for both you and your little (& big) ones.
Remember the new exercise books with their clean, blank pages? The slightly-too-big jumper you’d grow into by Christmas? That feeling of walking back into the playground after six weeks away?
For many children, September is filled with change — new faces, new settings, and sometimes even new friends. For us parents, it’s a moment to hit pause, breathe, and decide how you want family life to look this term. We all want the best, easy start, and with some simple careful planning that can be a reality.
twice that in the morning.
• Breakfast on autopilot. Offer two choices and keep them the same each day. Variety is lovely, but not at 7:30am when you’ve got one child asking for porridge and another demanding toast in the shape of a dinosaur.
Maybe last year’s mornings felt a little… frantic. Maybe homework turned into a battle. Maybe you struggled to get out of the door on time, or you felt overwhelmed with tasks the night before, maybe you just want to be more present in the afternoons. Whatever your hopes for the term ahead, September really is a chance to reset.
Small Changes That Make a Big Difference
Mornings Without the Mayhem
A smooth morning can make or break the day — for children and adults. But “smooth” doesn’t mean “perfect.” It just means removing as many stress points as possible.
• Lay it out the night before. Clothes, shoes, water bottles, reading books — the lot. It takes ten minutes before bed, but can save
• The launch pad. Pick one spot near the door where school bags, coats, and shoes live. Train the whole family to use it (including adults).
It might take a week or two for these changes to bed in, but when they do, mornings start to feel less like a military operation and more like a gentle send-off.
After-School Unwind
You know that moment when the kids walk through the door, drop their bag in the hallway, and immediately melt into a puddle of “I’m tired / I’m hungry / I don’t want to do homework”? That’s why a “transition time” is magic. Think of it as a buffer between school and the rest of the day. It could be:
• A snack at the table while chatting about their day.
• Ten minutes of TV or a chapter of a book together.
The September Reset
• A quick walk or scooter ride to the park.
This little pause gives children (and you) the space to reset before moving into the evening.
Stock up and Sort Out
The start of term is the perfect moment for a bit of gentle organising:
• Clear out the stationery drawer — you’ll probably find three glue sticks, two protractors, and a ruler with bite marks
• Label everything. Jumpers, water bottles, lunch boxes — even shoes.
• Restock your “emergency” supplies now so you’re not panic-buying felt tips at 8pm. It's not glamorous, but it’s one of those behind-the-scenes jobs that makes life run smoother for months.
Evenings that feel calmer
Once the whirlwind of after-school activities starts, it’s easy to feel like you’re on a treadmill. The trick? Protect at least one evening a week where you have nothing scheduled. No clubs, no homework battles — just time to be together. Here's a few simple ideas for those easy September evenings:
• Family board games.
• Film night with popcorn.
• A walk around the block just before bed to spot the first stars.
Meal planning also helps. Even if you just plan three nights a week and wing the rest, it takes away that daily “What’s for dinner?” stress. And try prepping packed lunches while tea’s cooking — it’s a small win that adds up over the week.
If you're home educating
For families who home educate, September can still be a natural “reset” point. After the more relaxed pace of summer, you might be ready to reintroduce gentle structure, start a new project, or refresh your learning space. Some ideas to bring in that “new term” feeling:
• Freshen up your space. Rotate toys, rearrange furniture, or set up/ refresh a cosy reading nook.
• Connect locally. Join or restart regular meetups with other home-educating families
The beauty of home education is flexibility, you can find a rhythm that works just for your family.
What the experts say
Alongside the small resets you can make at home, recent research from online tutoring platform Superprof has highlighted how today’s children face new pressures when heading back to school — from screen time and AI, to rising academic expectations.
Superprof asked over 800 English, Maths and Psychology tutors for their best advice to
parents. Here are some of their key takeaways:
Consistency is key. Regular practice — especially when linked to a child’s interests — builds confidence far more than last-minute cramming.
Be proactive, not reactive. Don’t wait for grades to drop before stepping in. Setting gentle routines for homework, sleep, and screen time helps avoid stress later.
Support before pressure. If your child is underachieving, start with emotional support and realistic expectations. Psychologist tutors stress that encouragement and patient listening matter more than focusing on results.
For big exam years. Experts recommend balanced revision schedules with breaks, hobbies, and open conversations about wellbeing — rather than all-out pressure.
As one tutor, Kadambari Borhade, explained:
“I always tell students to practice regularly rather than cramming… Don’t fear mistakes — they’re a valuable part of learning.”
And psychology tutor Alisdair Taylor added:
“Parents should make sure their children have good sleep hygiene, nutrition and exercise, as these support mental health and overall wellbeing.”
For more expert insights, you can find the full guide at Superprof.
At Mother of All Jobs, we connect parents with roles that fit their lives, without compromising their careers. Whether you’re returning to work, looking for something new, or just need a job that works around family life, we’re here to help. We partner with forward-thinking companies that get it! Businesses that value the skills, experience, and sheer determination that parents bring. Because work should work for you, too.
We asked parents what their “September Reset” looks like this year. From school starters to nursery drop-off’s, here’s how families are finding their rhythm again:
My little one is starting nursery and I’m trying not to feel guilty about enjoying a quiet coffee once I’ve dropped her off. It’s our reset as much as theirs.
For my son with additional needs, transitions are tough. We’ve started using a visual timetable at home so he knows what’s coming next — it’s already making mornings a bit calmer.
This term I’m saying no to overscheduling. One activity each, and that’s enough.
I work full-time so mornings can be a rush. My reset is prepping clothes, bags, and lunches the night before so we can actually enjoy breakfast together.
I’ve stopped comparing myself to other mums. Some days we manage reading, healthy meals, and early bedtimes. Other days it’s fish fingers and a bit of telly. And that’s okay.
With a newborn, the days can blur together. My reset is getting out of the house once a day — even just a walk to the park — so both of us get some fresh air and a change of scene.
My daughter is just starting reception, and I’ve made peace with the fact she’ll be shattered by 3:30. Early tea, bath, bed — no battles, just rest.
I’m learning not to feel guilty if the house is messy. If we’ve been to rhyme time, played in the garden, and laughed together, that’s enough for me.
Nurturing Growth: The Benefits of Baby & Toddler Classes
Words by Little Monsters House of Fun
From the first smile to those wobbly first steps, the early years of a child’s life are filled with rapid growth, boundless curiosity, and endless opportunities for learning. It’s during this precious window that babies and toddlers develop key social, emotional, and physical skills that lay the foundation for future success. Baby and toddler classes offer a safe, stimulating environment where little ones can explore the world, make early friendships, and bond with their caregivers - all while having fun. These classes aren’t just about play; they’re about nurturing development in ways that can have a lasting impact.
Supporting Early Development
From music and movement to sensory play, structured classes help babies and toddlers strengthen motor skills, hand-eye coordination,
and balance. Activities such as dancing to songs or reaching for textured toys encourage both gross and fine motor development, while exposure to different sounds, sights, and textures stimulates cognitive growth.
Encouraging Social Skills
Attending regular classes allows children to interact with peers in a positive, supervised setting. They learn valuable social behaviours such as sharing, taking turns, and communicating needs - skills that are essential
for smooth transitions into nursery or school. Parents also benefit from meeting other parents, building a supportive community.
Boosting Confidence and Independence
When children participate in age-appropriate activities, they experience small successes that build self-esteem. Whether it’s clapping along to a song for the first time or navigating a small obstacle course, these moments of achievement help foster independence and a “can-do” attitude.
Strengthening the Parent–Child Bond
Baby and toddler classes provide dedicated time for parents to focus solely on their child, away from daily distractions. Through playful interaction, singing, and shared discovery, these sessions help deepen emotional connections.
Why Choose Mini Monster Classes
Mini Monster Classes offer a variety of engaging, themed sessions designed to support learning and development from birth to preschool age. Their classes combine sensory play, music, movement, and storytelling to create fun, memorable experiences for children while giving parents practical ideas to continue
learning at home.
Mini Monster Classes are held at Little Monsters House of Fun, the highly rated children’s soft play and party venue in Great Dunmow, making it a perfect venue to hold these classes as each class includes free soft play. There is free and easy parking, and the Little Monsters Cafe will be open for you to enjoy a much earned coffee or if you fancy a bite to eat too.
Mini Monster Classes and activities are delivered by our award winning class leader Helen. Classes include pay as you go and term time classes, plus ‘Subscribe & Save’ where members can spread payments for all weekly term time classes for the school year (Sept25Jul26). Not only do ‘Subscribe & Save’ members save up to £60 over the year worth of classes, they receive an exclusive MiniMonster T-shirt, a Graduation Party and priority booking for Mini Monster events.
Play is fundamental for your child’s development so with our variety of different experiences offered to you here at Little Monsters during the week, we are sure you will find the class to suit you and your child. Have fun making memories enjoying your play experiences.
Book your place today and watch your Mini Monster grow in confidence, skills, and smiles. For more information visit minimonsterclasses.co.uk
Chewy Apple & Oat Lunch box Cookies
These chewy cookies are packed with grated apple, oats, and a touch of cinnamon — perfect for a wholesome lunch box treat or an after-school snack.
100g unsalted butter, softened
100g soft light brown sugar
1 medium egg
1 tsp vanilla extract
100g plain flour
1 tsp ground cinnamon
½ tsp baking powder
125g rolled oats
1 medium sweet apple, peeled and grated (about 100g)
50g raisins or sultanas (optional)
1. Preheat oven to 180°C (160°C fan). Line a baking tray with parchment.
Makes
2. Beat together the butter and sugar until creamy. Add egg and vanilla, mix together well.
3. Stir in flour, cinnamon, baking powder, and oats.
4.Fold through the grated apple and raisins (if using).
5. Place heaped tablespoons onto the tray, flatten slightly.
6. Bake for 12–15 minutes until golden at edges but still soft in the middle.
7. Cool on a wire rack before storing in an airtight tin.
SEPTEMBER
Family Fun Day & Dog Show • 6th September
£6 non-members Sessions now 90 minutes! 6
Stansted • 12-4pm • FREE • Join us for a fun-filled day and help support local businesses! • thecricketersarmspub.co.uk
Messy Play at the Art Place • Sundays
Chelmsford • 10:40am • £7 for one child, subsequent children • Explore and discover different textures and senses and learn through play • eventbrite.co.uk
Fun play areas, activities, story and song times for museum fans under 5!
Sessions run every other Thursday during term time from 11 September to 18 December with a new theme each week!
£5 Museum Members
Find out more
Museum of Chelmsford memberships start at just £20 per year
SEPTEMBER
Great Dunmow Carnival • 20th September
Great Dunmow • 12pm - 10pm • FREE (donations) • A Past, Present, Future themed procession, family fun, food, concert and fireworks. • dunmowcarnival.co.uk
Visit the Vulcan Day at Southend Airport • 28th September
Southend • 2-4pm • Adults £8, under 16's FREE • See the Vulcan XL426 and other aircraft up close at London Southend Airport • avrovulcan.com
Adventure Cinema presents Moana 2 at Hedingham Castle • 13th September
Halstead • 1:30pm • Standard tickets: Children from £10.65, Adults £14.01, Under 1's FREE • adventurecinema.co.uk/venues/hedingham-castle
Adventure Cinema presents The Gruffalo & Stick Man at Hedingham Castle
14th September • Halstead • 3pm • Standard tickets: Children from £10.65, Adults £14.01, Under 1's FREE • adventurecinema.co.uk venues/hedingham-castle
Crafty corner
The Educational Power of Craft
Words by Baker Ross
Whether it’s learning times tables, understanding the human body, or practising pencil grip, many parents are looking for ways to support their children’s learning at home -without adding more pressure after a long day.
That’s where crafting comes in. Not just as a rainy-day distraction, but as a hands-on, curriculum-supporting learning tool.
“We’re seeing more and more parents using craft kits as a way to reinforce what their children are learning at school, but in a fun and pressure-free way,” says Chanelle Smith, Social Media Manager at Baker Ross, a leading online arts and crafts shop. “It’s about learning through doing, and kids respond to that brilliantly.”
Why Craft and Curriculum Go Hand-in-Hand
Craft has always had educational value, but today’s kits take things further. The Curricular Crafts range from Baker Ross is
designed to support key curriculum areas like Science, Literacy, and Maths while catering to a range of learning styles and abilities.
“Using a craft-based approach to learning makes abstract concepts feel real,” Chanelle explains. “For instance, children can explore the life cycle of a frog in a tactile and memorable way using sticker story wheels. They can also grasp early mathematical ideas like symmetry by using wipe-clean lattice drawing boards, which feature simple animal and object outlines - perfect for mirror-based activities that turn a visual pattern into a hands-on discovery.”
Crafty Literacy Ideas:
• Create a bookmark or story wheel to summarise a finished book.
• Use themed kits (e.g. pirates or dinosaurs) to spark creative writing.
Maths-Friendly Craft Ideas:
• Sort small objects by colour or shape in a tray, then count or graph the results.
• Write numbers in coloured sand using fingers or tools.
Science Fun:
• Fill a tray with water and test which craft items (pom poms, sticks, buttons) sink or float.
• Try the rain cloud experiment: water, shaving foam, and blue food colouring. There’s a how-to video on the Baker Ross free craft hub: bakerross.co.uk/craft-ideas.
Great for Pre-Schoolers and SEND Families
Craft is especially useful for families of children with special educational needs (SEND). It supports sensory learning, builds confidence and encourages independence. “We design many kits with visual learners in mind,” Chanelle says. “Colour-coded pieces, simple steps and repetition really help.”
SEND-Friendly Crafting Tips:
• Use jumbo tweezers or chunky marker to support fine motor skills.
• Stick to visual instructions or model the first step.
• Reduce decision overwhelm by offering 2–3 materials at a time.
• Use the same tray or setup each time to create a comforting routine.
5 Quick Craft Wins for Busy Parents:
• Prep ahead: Lay out materials the night before.
• Reuse trays: One tuff tray can be used for sensory play, maths games or storytelling.
• Printables save time: Use free themed printables to guide learning.
• Add audio: Use music or audiobooks to create a multi-sensory experience.
• Use craft kits as screen break tools: Perfect for transitions between digital and hands-on play.
Craft gives kids the freedom to explore ideas in their own way, says Chanelle. It’s learning that doesn’t feel like learning – and that’s the best kind.
Craft isn’t just about glitter and glue. It’s a powerful tool for learning, discovery, and growth. Whether it’s understanding how the heart works, sequencing a story, or sorting colourful pom poms, creative play offers children an exciting, hands-on way to engage with the world around them.
Visit bakerross.co.uk to discover curriculumsupporting craft kits and to download free educational printables.
• Explore texture-rich crafts using felt, sand, foil or cotton wool.
Crafty Corner Steps:
Conker & Clay Snails
Get crafty and have fun making these adorable mini-beasts! Create beautifully swirly snail-shells using conkers and shape their squishy, colourful bodies from clay. This simple and creative activity is perfect for kids and adults alike, bringing a touch of nature and imagination together.
1. Decorate a conker with Deco Pens and self-adhesive gems. Allow to dry.
2. Take a piece of dough and roll it into a long sausage shape about 7cm long, then shape one end upwards to make the snail’s face.
3. Add a small amount of glue to the bottom of the conker and press it down into the snail’s body. Allow to dry.
4. Cut two pieces of pipe-cleaner 5-6cms long, make curls at one end, and gently press them into the top of the snail’s head.
5. Peel and stick two wiggle eyes to the snail’s head to finish.
Disappearing Drawings
This hands-on experiment not only captivates the interest of both kids and adults alike but it also teaches about light, optics, and the principles of refraction. Watch your coloured drawing turn black and white in front of your eyes.
You'll need: A5 Zip Bags, White A4 Card, Broad Tip Coloured Marker Pens, Black Outline Deco Paint Pens, A Clear Bowl, Water
Steps:
1. Measure and trim your card so it fits snugly inside the ziplock bag.
2. Using coloured pens (except black), draw a fun picture on the card. Be as creative as you like!
3. Slide your drawing into the ziplock bag and seal it securely.
4. On the outside of the bag, carefully trace over your drawing with a black permanent marker. This will stay visible while the colours underneath will soon vanish!
Raise a mug for Macmillan this September
The World’s Biggest Coffee Morning returns on Friday 26 September, uniting schools, workplaces and families over cake and coffee to raise funds for Macmillan Cancer Support. Every pound helps provide vital care and support for people living with cancer.
Sign up or find an event at coffee.macmillan.org.uk
Step Out for St Helena Hospice
Lace up your trainers and join hundreds of walkers for the St Helena Hospice Midnight Walk on Saturday 27 September, starting from Stanfords in Colchester. This much-loved fundraiser sees families, friends, and colleagues come together under the night sky to remember loved ones and raise money for local hospice care. With a choice of routes, entertainment along the way, and a glowing community spirit, it’s a special evening for all ages. Every step helps St Helena Hospice provide vital support to people facing incurable illness across north Essex. Register now at sthelena.org.uk/midnightwalk
STEPtember Together – SNAP Fun Walk 2025
This September, families across Essex are invited to step out for SNAP by joining the STEPtember Together Fun Walk. Running all month long, from 1–30 September, the challenge is open to all ages and abilities.
Choose a 2K or 5K route and complete it anytime, anywhere — whether it’s a stroll through your garden, laps of the living room, or a scenic wander at Weald Country Park, Thorndon, or Abberton Reservoir. Walk, bike, trike, wheelchair or pushchair — everyone’s welcome. Every participant will also receive a special completion certificate.
Even better, all donations are partially matchfunded by local businesses through The Fun Walk Trust, so every step helps SNAP’s vital work with families across Essex go even further.
Sign up or find out more at snapcharity.org/event/fun-walk-2025
Family Fun Planned for Colchester Revamp
Exciting changes are on the way for Colchester, as a £7 million transformation of the area around St Botolph’s Priory begins this September. The project, led by Colchester City Council and Essex County Council, will breathe new life into the historic quarter with castle-themed trails and a brand-new children’s play area inspired by the city’s heritage.
The revamp also promises better links between the town centre and rail station, making it easier for families to explore. With a mix of history, play, and improved accessibility, the newlook quarter is set to be a brilliant spot for weekend adventures and family days out in Essex.
New Cycle Skills Circuit Opens in Chelmsford
Chelmsford families now have a brand-new place to get on their bikes, as the Cycle Skills Circuit at Tower Gardens has officially opened. The Deputy Mayor of Chelmsford
Celebrate Roald Dahl Day on 13th September
Celebrate the world’s favourite storyteller on Roald Dahl Day! Many schools mark the occasion with fun dress-up days, as children arrive as favourites like Matilda, Charlie, or The BFG. It’s a chance to bring books to life and share the joy of reading in a creative way. Join in at home too with storytelling sessions, a cosy read-along, or even a mini “Golden Ticket” treasure hunt. More ideas and resources at roalddahl.com
cut the ribbon at the launch, joined by councillors and Active Essex, before families took to the track for free cycling sessions. Across the morning, 48 children enjoyed balance bike and Learn to Ride activities, with some pedalling off without stabilisers for the very first time. The new facility is free to use and open to the public, offering a safe, traffic-free space for children and beginners to build confidence on two wheels. With road markings, a learn-to-ride area, and a cycle practice zone, it’s the first of its kind in Chelmsford.
You’ll find the Cycle Skills Circuit at Tower Gardens, off Admirals Park (CM1 2LY) — just bring your bike and helmet!
Chelmsford City Council
In partnership with SNAP
Ready for School: Support for SEN Children
For many families, September brings a mix of excitement and challenges as children head back to school. For those raising children with additional needs, the return to routine can feel especially intense. New timetables, sensory demands, homework expectations, and the sheer effort of a school day often mean that children come home carrying more than just a backpack. SNAP offers us a wealth of guidance for families navigating these pressures.
The After-School “Coke Bottle Effect"
It’s common for children with additional needs to appear calm and collected at school, only to release a torrent of emotions at home. This is sometimes called the “coke bottle effect”: they’ve been shaken up all day by sensory input, social pressures, and academic demands, and once the safety of home allows, the fizz comes bursting out.
Recognising this helps parents and carers to respond with empathy rather than surprise. One of the most effective ways to reduce emotional overload is to build in opportunities to decompress. Ideally this happens throughout the school day, but as this isn’t always possible, what you do after school can make a real difference.
SNAP Charity partners
with parents to provide
compassion, guidance and hope for the whole family. Working across Essex, Thurrock and Southend, SNAP supports families who have a child or young person, aged 0-25, with any additional need or disability. There is a variety of services and resources and no formal diagnosis or professional referral is necessary to access SNAP services.
Find out more and support SNAP at snapcharity.org Helpline: 01277 211300 Instagram: @snap_charity
SNAP Charity relies on donations to provide this incredible support. To make a donation, please scan the QR code or visit their website: snapcharity.org
Gentle Transitions After School
When your child first comes out of school, try to hold back on questions. A well-meaning “How was your day?” can feel like too much when they’re already at their limit. Instead:
• Use simple non-verbal cues, such as thumbs up/down or hand signals, to let them share how they’re feeling.
• If they do want to talk, listen without interrupting.
• Respect their need for either closeness or space – some children may want a hug, while others need quiet.
Creating a consistent after-school routine can also reduce anxiety. This might be as simple as a visual timetable on the fridge showing “snack → quiet time → play → dinner.”
As children grow older, involving them in choosing the order of tasks can help them feel more in control.
The Importance of Down Time
Every child needs to relax in their own way. Some require calming, low-stimulus activities, while others regulate better with active, sensory play. Examples of calming activities include: sitting in a quiet dimly lit space, using a weighted blanket, listening to gentle music, reading or colouring, yoga or deep-pressure massage, a warm bath or shower.
Examples of stimulating activities include: hanging upside down, spinning or bouncing on an exercise ball, dancing and singing, messy play.
The right choice will depend on your child’s unique sensory profile, and often trial and error will guide you to what works best. These activities aren’t just distractions – they’re ways
for children to regulate their emotions and reset after a demanding day.
Making Uniform More Comfortable
For children with sensory sensitivities or motor difficulties, small details like seams, labels or stiff fastenings can cause big challenges. Adapted schoolwear is now widely available, with options such as elasticated waists, Velcro or magnetic fastenings, seamless clothing, wider neck openings and no-tie laces. If offthe-shelf items don’t suit, simple alterations or fabric patches can make standard uniforms more comfortable.
You can find adapted ranges at George at ASDA, Marks & Spencer, Sensory Smart, Fledglings, Smiths Schoolwear, Adaptive Clothing UK and Tink ’n’ Stink (easy laces). Always check return policies before buying to make sure items suit your child’s needs.
A Kinder Back to School
Supporting a child with additional needs at school involves far more than lessons and lunchboxes. By recognising the overload they face, building decompression time into routines, and making uniforms more comfortable, families can help children start the school year with greater confidence and calm.
SNAP continues to be a vital lifeline for families in Essex, offering advice, practical resources, and a listening ear. For more information, including the full back to school information sheets, visit www.snapcharity.org/resources
Starting over: Separation, custody, and creating a positive future
Words by Alexandra Drew, Solicitor, Family Law team at Tees
Relationships change. Sometimes that change means a fresh start for one or both partners. If you have children, the decisions you make will shape their lives in a profound way, often more than your own. Whether you’re thinking about separation or are already navigating the practicalities of divorce and child arrangements, it’s normal to feel uncertain about what comes next.
At Tees, we work with people facing these challenges every day. Our role is to help you understand your rights, explore your options, and move forward with clarity and confidence.
The start of something new
For many people, divorce feels like an ending. It can also be the start of a new chapter and an opportunity to create a different kind of family dynamic.
The “no-fault” divorce process removes the need to assign blame. For many couples, this helps reduce unnecessary conflict and makes the process more constructive.
Even so, you’ll still have important questions: Who stays in the family home? How will finances be divided? How do we talk to our children about what’s happening? We help clients answer these questions every day, offering legal clarity while keeping your longterm wellbeing in focus.
Putting children first
Children should always be at the centre of decision-making during separation or divorce. The law takes the same view, by focusing on what is in the child’s best interests. Terms like “child arrangements” cover where your child lives and how often they see each parent. These discussions can feel daunting,
especially if you and your former partner don’t agree.
The good news is that most families reach workable arrangements through open discussion or mediation. Where that isn’t possible, the courts can help to formalise what’s best for your child. We also advise on parenting plans, non-binding agreements that set out shared intentions clearly. These can significantly reduce day-to-day tension, helping both parents and children adjust more smoothly.
When disagreements arise
Some decisions are more likely to cause disagreement than others. For example, childhood vaccinations have become an increasingly common point of conflict between separated parents. Disputes over medical consent, schooling, or other major decisions are not unusual, particularly when emotions are running high.
Our advice is simple: don’t face these situations alone. We can help you understand your legal position, your options, and how to prevent disagreements from escalating into full disputes.
Support that fits your life
Separation and divorce rarely happen in isolation. You might be moving home, starting a new job, or adapting to shared parenting arrangements – all while trying to keep life steady for your children.
Our family law team listens carefully, acts quickly, and gives advice that’s practical for your circumstances.
If you’re unsure where to start, let’s talk. We’re here to protect you, your children, your wealth and your sanity.
Scan the QR code or visit teeslaw.com to speak to one of our specialist family law solicitors today.
Tried and loved
Taf Toys Urban Garden Tummy Time Spinning Book
Make tummy time more fun with the Taf Toys Urban Garden Spinning Book. With bold patterns for newborns and colourful pages as they grow, it encourages visual development, core strength and play. The clever spinning stand and gentle rattle make it a perfect pick for babies under 12 months.
John Lewis, £17.99
Dobble Card Game
Fast-paced and full of laughs, Dobble is the card game that everyone can join in with. With quick-to-spot matching symbols, it’s easy to learn but impossible to put down. Perfect for family game nights or popping in a bag for days out, it’s a brilliant way to keep kids entertained and connected after school.
Argos, £12
weThings love
Plus Plus Botanica
Lulu Loves Nursery
Step into the gentle world of Lulu Loves Nursery. This charming picture book helps little ones prepare for their first days at nursery with reassuring storytelling and sweet, colourful illustrations—perfect for reading together before the big day.
AbeBooks, £5.75
Bring imagination to life with the Plus-Plus Botanica Mix Tube. With its soft green and purple pieces, children can create everything from flowers to creatures—then take it all apart and start again. Designed to build focus and fine motor skills, it’s a brilliant travel companion too, with all the pieces neatly packed in one easy-to-carry tube.
