Family First - Issue 2 2026

Welcome

Spring has finally sprung! We have been enjoying the respite from the rain and the slightly warmer, sunnier weather. The spring flowers are starting to bloom and we have been spotting snowdrops and daffodils popping up. With the Easter holidays not far away, we have got you covered with an Easter Holiday Survival Guide from the team at Netmums and a list of restaurants and cafes across the UK that offer free meals for kids with a paying adult. Plus if you are entertaining over Easter, we have some great family-friendly recipes that kids and adults alike will love.

plus how to have tricky conversations with your children about some of the more personal issues that come with growing up. We also have a football focus in our Sport 4 All pages, with interviews with two Lionesses and an introduction to flag football.

In this issue, we speak with Dr Emily MacDonagh, about juggling family life with three kids and two stepchildren,

COVER CREDITS:

Photographer Credit: Holly Clarke

Executive Editor: Lee Gatland

Art Director: Richard Hejsak

Editor: Georgina Probert georgina@sevenstarmedia.co.uk

Deputy Editor: Becky Todd becky@sevenstarmedia.co.uk

Sales Team: 01959 543 650 sales@sevenstarmedia.co.uk

Published by SEVEN STAR MEDIA LTD

184 Main Road, Biggin Hill, Westerham, Kent Tel: 01959 543659 sevenstarmedia.co.uk

Disclaimer: Family First is published quarterly by Seven Star Media Ltd. No part of Family First may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmit ted to any form without permission. Views expressed in the magazine are not necessarily those of Seven Star Media Ltd, and are included to provide advice only. No content is a substitute for professional medical advice. During printing, images may be subject to a 15% variation. © Copyright of content belongs to individual contributors with the magazine copyright belong ing to Seven Star Media Ltd. All rights reserved. Please either keep this maga zine for future reference, pass it on for somebody else to read, or recycle it.

This is going to be my last issue as editor of Family First. I am handing over the reins to the wonderful deputy editor Becky Todd, who will be taking over as editor from the summer 26 issue onwards. It has been an absolute pleasure working on Family First for the last four years. I will now be focusing on my own business, Her Hair My Head ( herhairmyhead. co.uk), which helps people who are suffering from hair loss. We also have a feature in this issue on post-partum hair loss and how to manage changes to your hair while juggling life with a newborn.

Best wishes, Georgina

Conte nts

baby died at 10 weeks – now I’m determined to change how women are supported” –

‘I don’t think I ever get the juggle right and I think a lot of parents probably feel this way’ ” – Dr Emily

One shop, five meals, less waste – Cardiff Mum

Happy, healthy Easter – Clodagh McKenna

An Easter feast to remember – RECIPES

Everyday nutrition made easy – Dominique Ludwig

No-nonsense nourishment – RECIPES

our homes to yours – Department for Education

moths – The Wildlife Trusts

pregnancy and professional football was uncharted territory for both me and the club” – Hannah Blundell INTERVIEW

‘Girls need to be able to see themselves in all these different places to realise that they belong’ – Lucy Bronze INTERVIEW

Game on – British American Football Association

Snug as a bug GO GOOSEY

EDITOR’S picks

Check out our top baby, toddler and children's products this spring, from non-edible Easter treats to cute cuddly toys and new baby essentials.

A CAR SEAT THAT LASTS

JOIE

As parents, we all know that getting the right car seat for your child is an important and often expensive process. Especially if you need to change or update car seats from baby to toddler to child. Joie has come up with a solution and has launched the i-Spin 360 Max, which will take little ones all the way from birth to approximately 12 years old, providing long-term value for money, convenience and peace of mind. To make life easier for getting little ones in and out of the car, it has a 360-degree rotation and is made to the highest safety standards. It also has five recline settings for those all-important car naps! Joie, i-Spin 360 Max, RRP £250, joiebaby. com

Trips to the beach are just around the corner, but we all know that the British weather can be unpredictable. We have found something that is going to make your life so much easier! Enter the Go Goosey Quick Dry Onesie. This is an all-season, super-snuggly onesie that takes the stress out of every wet and chilly moment. The special fabric dries super-fast, so kids can go for a dip in the sea or the pool, pop on the onesie and be warm and dry in minutes. They come in unisex colours and in five sizes, from age 2 years up to 11 years. Go Goosey Quick Dry Onesie, £59.99, gogoosey.co.uk

Sugar-free easter treat

NO NASTIES KIDS

While Easter is often a chocolatefest, why not get your kids an Easter present that won't make them hyper and then have a sugar crash! No Nasties Kids has created natural, non-toxic and vegan-friendly play makeup that is specially formulated for delicate children’s skin. With playful colours, chocolate-scented lip glosses and adorable Easter details, the collection promises hours of imaginative fun long after the egg hunt is over. The Sugar-Free Easter Kids Makeup Gift Set comes with a Chocolate Easter Egg Lip Gloss, Limited Edition Yellow Pressed Eyeshadow, Poppy Purple Pressed Eyeshadow and a Bamboo Applicator Brush. No Nasties Kids, Sugar-Free Easter Kids Makeup Gift Set, RRP £12.99, nonastieskids.co.uk

CUTE & CUDDLY MINISO

MINISO has launched its new Minini Collection of cuddly plush toys in four cute characters. Each toy is 13 inches tall and there's something for everyone with the choice of Bnini the brown bear, Chonini the fawn bear with pink accessories, Conini the white rabbit and Lenini the green frog. They are snuggly, squeezy and the perfect

SWEET DREAMERS

One of the main things that parents want with a newborn baby is for them to sleep soundly. Sleep experts Sweet Dreamers have created the Luna Dream machine: a lightweight, portable soothing sleep aid to help baby settle and sleep anywhere you go. With 10 gentle sounds to comfort baby and a smart cry sensor that activates automatically to settle baby, the new gadget is great for use at home and also when you are out and about. Plus, this handy, travel-sized dream machine offers a 20, 40 and 80 minute playback timer, along with a continuous 12-hour playback function to offer more choice for parents and baby. Sweet Dreamers, Luna Dream machine, RRP: £32.99, sweetdreamers.co.uk

PARENTING HELP FROM PEPPA PIG AND FAMILY

Millions of parents of children aged 0-4 years can now access trusted, NHS-approved early years advice thanks to a new Government-backed series featuring Peppa Pig’s family.

Anew campaign from the Department for Education, the Department of Health and Social Care, and Hasbro is bringing government- and NHS-approved early years advice to parents through Best Start in Life, the government’s online hub for families.

The collaboration sees the UK Government team up with the much-loved Peppa Pig family, who star in bespoke animations available on the Muddy Puddle Parenting, Peppa Pig’s official YouTube channel for parents ( YouTube channel).

In the animations, Mummy and Daddy Pig explore common questions and challenges of being a parent – from infant feeding to early learning and preparing for school – while guiding

families to visit BestStartinLife.gov.uk for trusted advice. There, they can also find details of local Best Start Family Hubs offering in-person support.

The latest in the animated series – created by production company Pink Static – has launched on Muddy Puddle Parenting. The video guest-stars early childhood development expert Professor Sam Wass of the University of East London, featuring liveaction scenes filmed at the University’s Institute for the Science of Early Years and Youth. In the episode, Mummy and Daddy Pig struggle to soothe a crying baby Evie, and call on Professor Wassf for expert advice and reassurance.

Olivia Bailey, Minister for Early Education, says: “Through our Plan for Change, we want to support families to get a record share of children schoolready by the age of five. Peppa Pig has been part of family life for a generation. When parents are already turning to her world for comfort, routine and reassurance, it makes sense to meet them there.

for the campaign.

Professor Sam Wass, Director of the Institute for the Science of Early Years at the University of East London, who stars in the latest animation, adds: “Parents play a vital role in shaping their child’s development during the early years. Simple, everyday interactions - like bonding, chatting and playing - can make a big difference, helping children build the skills and confidence they need to start school ready to learn. To support parents, it’s essential that trusted information and professional advice are easy to access, both online and within local communities.”

“This campaign uses familiar characters to guide parents towards trusted, NHSapproved advice”

“This campaign uses familiar characters to guide parents towards trusted, NHS-approved advice, whether they’re navigating sleep, feeding or early learning milestones, through Best Start in Life and local Best Start Family Hubs. By making support easier to find and easier to trust, we’re helping parents give every child the best start in life, wherever they grow up.”

“Mummy and Daddy Pig explore common questions and challenges of being a parent – from infant feeding to early learning and preparing for school ”

A new advertising campaign also launched in January on ITVX video-on-demand, featuring the first ‘Parent Coaster ’ animation created exclusively

“Peppa Pig is already a familiar fwace in living rooms across the country, loved by millions of young children and their families. This campaign is a brilliant opportunity to reach parents with trusted NHS-approved advice to help give every child the best start in life,” says Health Minister Baroness Merron.

SPRING brights

Brighten up your day with colours that make you feel good! Deputy Editor Becky rounds up bold, feel good, happy hues, to step into spring in style!

Bébé, £39.50

Jacket, JoJo Maman

Green Gingham,

Maman Bébé, £21.00

Trousers, JoJo

Stripe Wide Leg

Daisy Embroidered

Mori, £38.00

Up Pyjamas, Baby

Blue Striped Button

£34.00

Baby Mori, Oversized Shirt,

Soft Corduroy

Bébé, £28.50

JoJo Maman

Riptape Trainer,

Multi Floral Ditsy

£15.00

Maman Bébé,

Polo Shirt, JoJo

Tennis Embroidered

Radicals, £88.00

Little Green

Waterproof

Robe,

Hazy Blue Recycled

London, £80.00

Blouse, Pepa

Mariner Collar

Broderie Anglaise

All items pictured from John Lewis

items pictured from John Lewis

Little Green Radicals is a family favourite for good reason. Their spring collections are made using GOTScertified organic cotton, produced to Fairtrade standards, and designed to last through play, picnics and puddlejumping. Family First readers can enjoy an exclusive 10% off with the code FamilyFirst10

£34.00

Dress, Baby Mori, Floral Soft Corduroy

£21.95

Vest, Zipster, Knitted Cotton

PO.P, £24.00

Yellow Sweatshirt,

PO.P, £22.00

Joggers With Pockets,

Radicals, £37.00

Boots, Little Green

Natural Waterproof

Wellington Fair Rubber

Gold Lined Ankle

£34.00

Green Radicals,

On Trousers, Little

Flora Reversible Pull

PO.P, £16.00

Leggings, Play Flared

£25.00

Maman Bébé, Gingham Dress, JoJo

Floral Embroidered

Bright Pink Bright

“My mum always used to say that if a child is brave enough to ask a question, you should be brave enough to answer it”

‘I DON’T THINK I EVER GET THE JUGGLE RIGHT AND I THINK A LOT OF PARENTS PROBABLY FEEL THIS WAY’

Dr Emily MacDonagh, doctor, author and busy mum, certainly knows the juggle of modern family life – balancing parenting, a medical career and writing. Becky Todd caught up with Emily to talk about raising resilient children, carving out family time and having honest conversations about growing up, puberty and wellbeing.

Doctor, bestselling author, health advocate, wife and mum to Millie (12), Theo (9) and Arabella (1), and stepmum to Junior (20) and Princess (18), Dr Emily MacDonagh is all too familiar with the juggling act that comes with parenting.

Alongside her work as a doctor, she has become a trusted voice for families, sharing clear evidence-based advice in a warm, relatable way and helping parents navigate everything from childhood illnesses to the ups and downs of parenting.

At home, life is just as full, raising a family with children at every stage of development with husband Peter Andre. She’s also a reassuring presence online,

where she regularly shares practical health advice with her social media followers and opens up honest conversations around growing up, puberty and family life.

“For me it’s about finding small moments of downtime”

Her latest book, Periods: Everything You Need To Know, reflects her passion for empowering young people with clear, age-appropriate information about their bodies.

“We have chaos and moments of everything going wrong exactly like every other family”

Dinner time is really important for me –there are no screens, we’re all sitting and listening, and we talk about everybody’s day.

I try to make an effort to be there as much as I can, while accepting that sometimes I can’t and that’s OK.

The juggle is real for all parents and I’m definitely no different. I try to be organised, keep everything in the diary and make to-do lists, but like every parent, I still get things wrong and miss things sometimes.

I think that’s something a lot of parents relate to. We’re all trying our best and sometimes that means accepting that things won’t always run perfectly.

Designed for tweens, teens and the parents guiding them, Emily tackles a topic that is often surrounded by embarrassment or confusion, helping families approach these conversations with confidence.

Juggling it all

You juggle being a doctor, an author, an influencer, a wife and a mum -what’s one strategy you’ve found most helpful for carving out quality time with your family despite a busy schedule?

Emily MacDonagh (EM): I don’t think I ever get the juggle right and I think a lot of parents probably feel this way. I always feel like I can never quite do everything as well as I would like to, but I try my best.

When you have kids ranging from little ones to teens, family time can get tricky. What are your favourite ways to keep everyone happy and engaged together?

You are absolutely right, it can be a bit of a struggle and I’m noticing it more now because Millie’s getting older. She’s much more interested in things like shopping with friends or sleepovers, and at the same time I’m juggling life with Belle who is still very little. Often we divide and conquer rather than trying to find activities that suit everyone. Sometimes we’ll go to the park together – Millie might bring a friend, Theo will be on his scooter and Belle is happy in the buggy.

EM:

I also try to put time aside for individual activities with each of them that are more suited to their age. I think that helps them feel special. Those one-to-one moments can be really important because it gives you the chance to focus completely on that child and what they enjoy doing.

Mental health is so important, especially for busy parents. What activities help you feel refreshed and balanced?

For me it’s about finding small moments of downtime. It’s rare there’s a moment where

“Those one-to-one moments can be really important because it gives you the chance to focus completely on that child and what they enjoy doing”

Raising resilient kids

nobody needs me for anything, so those little pockets of quiet really matter. That might just be sitting on the sofa watching a documentary in the evening or having a cup of tea once the baby has gone to bed. I wish I had more time for exercise because it’s great for mental health, but maybe as the baby gets older I will. It’s about finding what makes you feel good, what makes you feel rested, wound down and valued.

What are some common health or wellbeing myths you see families believing-and what’s the truth behind them?

EM:

There are loads – things like not going out with wet hair because you’ll catch a cold, or the idea that sugar makes kids hyperactive.

There actually isn’t a lot of scientific evidence that correlates with children having sugar, becoming hyperactive and behaviour. Anecdotally, parents will say that’s what they observe, but it’s probably more likely to be the environment they’re in as opposed to the sugar itself, so that’s a bit of a myth. However still don’t have too much sugar, that’s the take home message on that!

From your experience, what everyday habits make the biggest positive difference to a child’s longterm health and resilience?

Talking is probably the most important thing – being open about how they’re feeling and what’s going on in their lives. My parents always said it’s important to know what’s happening with your kids and to be part of their lives. When children feel that connection, they’re much more likely to talk to you when something isn’t going well. You want to have that open dialogue with them and you want them to feel able to talk about things, I just feel like that sets them up so well in adult life. We all know that it’s difficult to open up when things are difficult in your life. People always come forward when everything is going well and not always when things are hard, so I really strongly believe if we get kids just talking day to day- “Tell me something good that happened today”, “Was there anything that happened that wasn’t so good?”. Just getting them talking and being open I think are such good habits for them to get into for later in life.

EM:

Instagram: @AshleyLouiseJames

You encourage openness and honesty for young people. Are there any conversations you’ve personally found harder to navigate as a parent than you expected?

EM:

Some conversations are definitely tricky: the classic birds and bees conversation, for example. Children also sometimes come home from school and ask about things they’ve heard from friends. My mum always used to say that if a child is brave enough to ask a question, you should be brave enough to answer it. I try to answer honestly while keeping things age-appropriate.

Puberty, periods and parent tips

Your new book Periods: Everything You Need To Know, aims to be a guide for tweens and teens. What inspired you to tackle this topic in a dedicated book?

EM:

and I do think it really comes down to the individual child. But we need to remember that it is considered within the normal range to start puberty from the age of 8. We can’t be excluding these topics from primary school age children because there will be girls who are having their periods while they are still at primary school, so for those children they

It felt like a logical next step. When I wrote my books about puberty for boys and girls, there was a section about periods and I remember thinking you could write a whole book on this topic. Periods can be confusing for both children and parents, so I wanted to create something that could help guide those conversations. I love the idea of parents sitting down with their child and reading parts of the book together.

“I try to make an effort to be there as much as I can, while accepting that sometimes I can’t and that’s OK”

Some parents worry that primary school is too young to learn about periods. How can learning about them earlier help reduce fear or confusion later on?

EM:

I think it’s a really good point that primary school does feel young to be learning about these things

“It’s about finding what makes you feel good, what makes you feel rested, wound down and valued”

obviously will need to know about the topic. I think it’s extremely important that you tailor it appropriately to the child, but also that we are starting to have some of these conversations at primary school and I think it’s absolutely crucial that we do, but we do it in the right way.

Many parents are unsure how to bring up tricky subjects with their children. How do you suggest they start these discussions?

EM:

I mean I tend to just go for it! I sometimes find the car is quite good because you’re not in that intense eye contact situation. I think I would just bring it up and say something like “I had an e-mail from the school, you’re going to be learning about puberty, do you want to have a chat about it?” and then let that sit with them a little bit and then you could approach the subject again another time.

The way I’ve done it at home – we have an open and honest policy where we talk about these things, even with Theo. He’s got two older sisters, he is obviously asking questions about periods because it’s conversations that I have with the girls, so I’m honest with him when he does ask questions.

I don’t go into tonnes of detail because he’s only 9. I think not being shy or ashamed when those topics come up and to be able to talk about them as a family is really important for boys and girls. It’s so important dads are also involved in the conversations too.

At home with the Andres

Family life is often idealised online. What’s a reality of your home life that might surprise people?

I love this one because I do think family life is idealised online. I’m actually trying more and more to put a true reflection of our life across because nobody has the perfect family life.

I like our house to be tidy, but it’s not always tidy. I have moments where stuff is everywhere or somebody’s lost their shoes, somebody’s forgotten their PE kit, we’re running around, we’re late for school, that 100% happens on a daily basis in our house.

I love watching content of other people where they’re just being completely honest about the chaos that might be going on in their house.

I don’t know what people would be surprised to know, I think maybe that we have chaos and moments of everything going wrong exactly like every other family does! I hope people are seeing that come across more in my content because we are exactly like every other family.

“It’s so important dads are also involved in the conversations too”

Finding time for your partner can be tricky with children. How do you and Peter make it work?

Pete and I do really try and prioritise time together, we probably don’t do it as

much as we should, but we try and make time for date nights, whether that’s going out for dinner, or on more special occasions we might go away for the evening together. I do think it’s very important and we’re really open about it with the kids in terms of saying it’s really important that mum and dad have that time together as well. What they don’t know is that we usually end up talking about them the whole time, but that’s not the point. You’ve got to be strong as a couple to be strong as parents.

Finally, what are you most looking forward to in the year ahead?

I’ve actually got a couple of exciting projects which hopefully you should hear about in the next few months. I’m just planning on carrying on with the things I enjoy and being with the kids.

I’d love to do another book, I’ve written five already, but I’m excited to think what else I can write about-that’s definitely something that I would aspire to do. My favourite thing I do work wise is writing books, I really love it. We’ve got Belle’s birthday coming up the next few weeks, I actually can’t believe she’s going to be two, as usual this year is going to be busy!

QUICKFIRE Q&A

Q: Who’s the messiest in the house, you, the kids or Peter?

A: “The kids, closely followed by Pete!”

Q: Quickest way to cheer up a grumpy child?

A: “Distraction – with Belle, singing her a song works every single time.”

Q: One thing you always carry in your bag?

A: ”Wet wipes and a sick bag, as you never know who might need them.”

Q: One parenting tip you wish you knew sooner?

A: ”Pick your battles: don’t fall out over everything.”

Q: One word your kids would use to describe you?

A: “Tough one. I can’t think of one word, but Millie did say to me recently that she doesn’t know what she would do without me which nearly made me cry!”

Stay up to date with Emily MacDonagh’s family life, medical advice and other updates by following her on Instagram. Periods: Everything You Need to Know by Dr Emily MacDonagh is available to buy now on Amazon.co.uk and all good bookshops. Scan the QR code to purchase.

EM:

EM:

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“IS IT NORMAL…?”

Got

a parenting question you’re quietly Googling at 11pm? Netmums’ Is It

Normal...? series tackles those ‘just me?’ worries we all have – with expert advice you can trust.

IS IT NORMAL TO LOSE CONFIDENCE AT WORK AFTER HAVING KIDS?

Self-development and wellness coach Ruth Ntorinkansah says: “Your brain and your life have fundamentally changed after having children. You go from being high performing and

hyper independent to being needed 24/7. Your cognitive load doubles, your sleep is disrupted.

“So when you go back to the working space it’s common to feel slower, less confident, more hesitant to speak up and to stop going for promotions. This usually shows up in overpreparing for meetings, second guessing your decision making, and having this feeling that everybody else has moved on but you. Try these three mindset shifts:

Audit your new strengths: list the skills and abilities that you’ve picked up in your parenthood journey, and how they now translate into leadership and into the workplace.

Shrink the comeback gap: take one actionable step every single week, whether that’s speaking up in a new meeting or applying for the new opportunity.

IS IT NORMAL TO WORRY I’M MISSING SIGNS MY CHILD IS STRUGGLING WITH THEIR MENTAL HEALTH?

Netmums counsellor Emma Page says: :

“Children don’t always have the words to explain how they’re feeling, and mental health struggles don’t always look dramatic and obvious. Also, behaviour naturally changes as children grow, which can make it hard to know what’s typical development and what might be a sign of distress.

their school teachers, school counsellors or well-being staff. They often notice changes across different settings. If you’re still concerned, speak to your GP or mental health professional for support.”

only if it continues beyond the age of seven or if it suddenly occurs again after they’re previously dry overnight.

“You know your child better than anyone. If you’re worried, think about your child’s regular healthy behaviours and pay attention to shifts in frequency, intensity or withdrawal of those behaviours.

Look for changes in mood, sleep, appetite, energy or if they’re withdrawing from friends and losing interest in things they used to enjoy. From here, you can then think about patterns: is it caused by any specific events or changes in their life? Does it only happen at home or school or college or when they’re with others or alone? Thinking this way can help you understand what might be behind the behaviour, rather than focusing on one moment in isolation.

“Start by talking with your child gently without pressure. Let them know you’re there to listen. You can also reach out to

IS IT NORMAL THAT MY 6-YEAR-OLD STILL WETS THE BED AT NIGHT?

Potty-training expert Esther Allen, founder of Potty Pros Academy, says: “Around one in 10 children still wet the bed at this age. For the most part, it naturally resolves with time. The concern starts

“Bedwetting is a medical condition and it is nobody’s fault. There are three main reasons it can occur: The first is their bladder just doesn’t stretch enough to hold all the urine overnight. The second is their bladder isn’t sending the signals that it’s full whilst they’re asleep. And the third is that they’re just producing too much urine whilst they’re asleep.

“It can often be a combination of all of these, but the good news is they’re all treatable. If your child is over five, you can take them to your GP for advice. They may also check your child’s bladder and bowel health. For some children, a bedwetting alarm is the most effective support, especially if they are just not waking up when their bladder is full. Other children may benefit from shortterm medication, which helps reduce how much urine is produced at night.”

Follow Netmums on TikTok and Instagram for more, and you can DM the Netmums team on their socials with your own questions.

SURVIVAL GUIDE EASTER HOLIDAYS

Netmums parenting

editors offer some tried and tested tips for those juggling work and childcare this Easter

The Easter holidays sound lovely in theory. Two weeks of family time, fresh air, maybe even a wholesome craft moment. In reality? You’ve got emails piling up, deadlines looming and a child asking for snacks every seven minutes.

I f you’re working through the break, here’s how to survive with your sanity intact…

1

Call in favours (and swap childcare)

If you’ve got friends in the same boat, team up. Take turns hosting a playdate, so each parent gets a clear half-day to work. Lots of parents are struggling with the juggle and will likely be relieved when someone suggests sharing the load.

2

“You cannot be a full-time employee and a full-time activities coordinator at the same time”

Plan one simple thing a day

You don’t need a packed schedule. Smaller moments like a trip to the park, baking fairy cakes or a picnic tea on the carpet are just as valuable. They’ll give you and your child time to enjoy together, even while you’re working.

3

Accept this is survival mode

You cannot be a full-time employee and a full-time activities coordinator at the same time. Something has to give and that’s totally okay. The house might be messier. Screen time might creep up. Lunch might be beige. The key thing to remember is you’re not failing as a parent – you’re doing the best you can.

HOW TO SAVE ON DAYS OUT THIS EASTER

The cost of a family day trip can soon add up. If you’re trying to keep Easter fun without blowing your budget, these simple swaps can make a big difference.

Check for online discounts

Never pay full price if you can help it. Before booking theme parks, zoos or big attractions, search for 2-for-1 deals, voucher codes or advance online savings. Many attractions are cheaper if you book ahead rather than paying on the gate.

It’s also worth checking your supermarket loyalty points. Some schemes let you exchange points for attraction tickets or days out, which can massively cut the cost. Even using points to reduce your food shop can free up extra cash for holiday treats. A five-minute search could save you £££s!

Look for free activities

Secondary school means more independence – and more responsibility. Use the summer to shift some of the daily decision making and organising their way. Ask your child to pack their own bag for a day out. Or let them manage their morning routine so you can all leave the house at a set time. These little moments help build their confidence and organisational skills ready for when they have to remember school books, PE kit and homework.

“If the weather is good, a trip to the park or the beach are always fun activities that don’t blow the budget”

Bring a packed lunch

Food is where the budget usually takes a hit. Take a packed lunch, refillable water bottles and plenty of snacks. Even grabbing supermarket meal deals on the way is cheaper than attraction cafés.

Think about transport

Train fares, parking and petrol can easily double the cost of a day out. Look into family railcards or off-peak tickets if you’re travelling by train. Car sharing with another family means you can split fuel and parking costs. And visiting attractions mid-week is often cheaper (and quieter) than weekends.

Netmums is your safe space for every stage of parenthood – no judgement, just expert support. Visit netmums. com or follow us on socials @Netmums.

GET SMART WITH PHONES!

Worried your child will be left out without a smartphone? Psychologist and bestselling author Jonathan Haidt shares his top tips after catching up with JB Gill and Netmums’ Louise Burke on The Netmums Podcast.

If your child is asking for a smartphone, you might be feeling anxious about saying yes... but equally unsure about saying no. What if they’re left out of group chats? And what if that impacts their friendships?

Speaking on The Netmums Podcast, Jonathan Haidt says parents are stuck in a ‘collective action trap’, where children and parents feel they have to use smartphones because everyone else is. And he says understanding the trap is the first step towards escaping it. Jonathan, whose work has already sparked a global conversation about childhood, smartphones and anxiety, says, “What kids are afraid of isn’t really losing their phones or social media. Studies of older kids show they actually don’t like it overall. They feel trapped. What they’re terrified of is being cut off, being alone, being left out. So

that’s why this is such a trap.”

He recommends ‘coordinated action’ – finding other families nearby who have children of a similar age, so they can play together off devices. Jonathan adds, “If you do that, you’ve given them back a childhood. If everyone’s on their phone on social media, they’re not going to go out. But if there are clear rules or if they don’t have a smartphone

“Children love routines, so the trick is to be consistent”

HOW TO KEEP OFF SCREEN YOUR CHILD (WITHOUT LOSING YOUR MIND)

Here are four realistic ways to cut back on your child’s screentime.

Set ‘good boundariesenough’

Pick a few rules to stick to as a family. Maybe that’s no screens before school. Or devices off during dinner. Or a rough daily limit that works for you all. Children love routines, so the trick is to be consistent. If they know what to expect, they are less likely to argue for more time.

Embrace the boredom

Listen to The Netmums Podcast, hosted by JB Gill and Netmums’ Louise Burke, wherever you get your podcasts.

When your child says, ‘I’m bored’, the temptation is to fix it. Instead, try saying, ‘I wonder what you could do?’, and leave them to it. There may be some dramatic sighing. But eventually they’ll build a den, draw something or invent a game that makes no sense, but keeps them busy for 45 minutes. That’s a (screen free!) win.

Keep a activitygrab-and-go stash

Screens often win because they’re easy. So make offline stuff easy too. Have a basket of things your child can reach themselves: colouring books, comics, Lego, sticker sets, puzzle books, craft bits, even old magazines to cut up. They can get crafty IRL – and they’ll enjoy it, too!

Change the default

1 2 3 4

Do the requests for devices come as soon as you get back from the school run? Try shifting the routine. Snack first, then outside. Homework at the table with music on. A walk round the block before anyone touches a device.

The Amazing Generation: Your Guide to Fun and Freedom in a ScreenFilled World is out now in paperback, published by Puffin.

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KIDS EAT FOR FREE THIS EASTER

Want to take the kids out for food during the Easter holidays, but don’t want to spend a fortune? We’ve rounded up the best places in the UK that kids can eat for free during the school holidays.

Eating out with children can quickly become expensive, especially during the school holidays when families are looking for ways to keep everyone entertained. The good news is that many restaurants and cafés across the UK offer “kids eat free” or heavily discounted children’s meals.

From pizza and pasta restaurants to cafés and hotel breakfasts, there are plenty of places where children can enjoy a meal for free when dining with a paying adult. Whether you’re planning a family day out, meeting friends for lunch or stopping for breakfast before an Easter adventure, these offers can help keep costs down while still enjoying a treat.

Kids Eat Free

Angus Steakhouse - Children under 8 eat free when a full-paying adult orders a main course. The offer usually runs daily from 12pm-5pm, although some central London locations exclude Saturdays.angussteakhouse. co.uk/kids-eat-free

ASK Italian - During the school holidays, children can eat free when an adult purchases a main meal and the offer is activated through the ASK Perks app. askitalian.co.uk/kidseat-free

Banana Tree - Every Sunday, all year round, kids can have a free main, drink and dessert when an adult main meal is purchased at this Southeast Asian restaurant chain. bananatree.co.uk/offers

Bella Italia - Children aged 2-11 can eat free Sunday to Thursday when an adult main meal is purchased. bellaitalia.co.uk/kids

Café Rouge -

Kids eat free every day from 12-4pm with the purchase of any adult main meal. Find out more: caferouge.com/restaurant-offers

Bill’s - Up to two kids can eat free, all day, when one adult orders any main dish (breakfast, lunch or dinner) between Monday 30th MarchFriday 10th April. Offer does not include Saturday and Sunday. bills-website.co.uk/family/

Future Inns -

In the Bristol, Cardiff and Plymouth restaurants, kids (under 5) eat for free with any adult meal (including breakfast, lunch and dinner). Find out more: futureinns.co.uk/special-offers/ kids-eat-free-at-future-inns/

Franco MancaKids under 12 receive a free kids’ pizza when an adult purchases a full-priced main meal. This offer is available Monday-Thursday in participating restaurants. francomanca.co.uk

Gordon Ramsay Restaurants -

Selected restaurants offer promotions where children under 10 receive a free main course when an adult orders two courses from the à la carte menu. tinyurl.com/3rftrkkw

Las Iguanas - Download the My Iguanas app and children under 12 can receive a free kids’ meal when an adult orders from the à la carte menu. iguanas.co.uk/kids-menu

OK Diners - Kids under 10 eat free from the children’s menu when an adult orders a main course. okdiners.com/kids

Preto - Children under 10 eat free all weekend and weekdays after 4pm with a paying adult. preto.co.uk/offers/children-eat-free

Brewers Fayre - Two children under 16 can eat breakfast for free when an adult buys an unlimited breakfast. brewersfayre.co.uk/ en-gb/school-holidays

Table Table - Children under 16 can enjoy a free breakfast with every paying adult. tabletable.co.uk/en-gb/breakfast

Pizza Hut Restaurants - During selected promotions, children can eat free when adults purchase the buffet. pizzahut.co.uk/restaurants

Purezza - Children under 10 can enjoy a free mini pizza with every adult meal purchased. Purezza’s menu is entirely plant-based. purezza.co.uk/kids-eat-free

The Real Greek - Kids under 12 eat free every Sunday when an adult spends £15 or more on food.therealgreek.com/offers

Whitbread Inns - Up to two children under 16 eat breakfast free when an adult orders breakfast. whitbreadinns.co.uk/en-gb/ school-holidays

Premier Inn - Two children under 16 eat breakfast free when an adult purchases a full Premier Inn breakfast. premierinn.com/gb/ en/why/food/breakfast.html

Travelodge - Children under 15 can enjoy free breakfast with a paying adult at many Travelodge hotels.: travelodge.co.uk

Supermarket Cafés

YO! Sushi - During the school holidays, children can enjoy a free kids’ meal when dining with a full-paying adult (minimum spend £10). yosushi.com/kids-eat-free

Zizzi - Members of the Zillionaires’ Club app can access offers where children receive a free Bambini meal when an adult orders a main dish.: zizzi.co.uk/kids-eat-free

Breakfast Deals

Morrisons Café - Kids eat free all day when an adult spends £5 or more on a meal. my.morrisons.com/cafe

Pausa Cafés at Dunelm - For every £4 spent by an adult, children can receive a free mini meal deal, including a main, snacks and a drink.dunelm.com/info/about/pausacoffee-shops

Beefeater Grill - Up to two children under 16 can eat an unlimited breakfast for free with every adult breakfast purchased.: beefeater.co.uk/en-gb/school-holidays

Tesco Café - During selected school holidays, children can receive a free kids’ meal deal with an adult purchase and Clubcard. tesco.com/cafe

Restaurant promotions can change regularly, and some offers only run during specific school holiday dates or require membership of a loyalty app. Always check the restaurant’s website before visiting to confirm the latest terms and participating locations.

GO WILD WITH ZOO PETER!

In a special episode of Blue Peter, the team goes behind the scenes at two of the Zoological Society of London’s most iconic zoos to celebrate the organisation’s 200th anniversary. From amazing animals to hands-on conservation work, young viewers discover how the ZSL protects wildlife and how they can make a difference too.

This spring, Blue Peter marks the 200th anniversary of the Zoological Society of London (ZSL) with a landmark episode filmed across both ZSL’s London and Whipsnade Zoo – and it’s shaping up to be an unmissable adventure for families everywhere.

Airing on Friday 8th May 2026 on CBBC and BBC iPlayer, Zoo Peter brings together a shared heritage: for generations, Blue

“Helping young viewers understand why protecting habitats and biodiversity matters so much”

Photo: BBC

Photo: ZSL

Peter and ZSL have inspired young people to care about animals, science and the natural world. As Blue Peter editor Ellen Evans puts it, “Both Blue Peter and ZSL have always believed that if you spark curiosity early, children grow up wanting to protect the world around them. This programme is a celebration of that idea.”

“This isn’t just about amazing animals – it’s about showing kids that they can make a difference”

Behind the scenes

Blue Peter presenters Abby Cook and Shini

Muthukrishnan are joined by Aaron, Cam and Tyler Whitnall, stars of CBBC Show One Zoo Three, to go access-all-areas exploring ZSL’s zoos and meet the extraordinary people working to protect wildlife, to uncover the real challenges animals face and the hopeful solutions being developed.

At London Zoo, viewers are treated to some truly unbelievable facts. Did you know ZSL is the world’s oldest scientific zoo, it was founded in 1826 –and even invented the

word “zoo”? Abby and Shini meet animals great and small, from majestic lions and tigers to tiny spiders with big ecological importance.

Didknow?you

ZSL is the world’s oldest scientific zoo, it was founded in 1826 – and even invented the word “zoo”

One highlight comes courtesy of some of the zoo’s friendliest residents: the capybaras. Calm, curious and irresistibly cute, they quickly charm the presenters and are sure to win over viewers watching at home.

Conservation in action

This episode doesn’t shy away from serious issues. Endangered species and real conservation problems are brought into sharp focus, helping young viewers understand why protecting habitats and biodiversity matters so much. Abby and Shini discover how ZSL’s mission today is focused on restoring and protecting wildlife globally.

Photo: BBC

Photo: ZSL

Photo: ZSL

Photo: ZSL

“The adventure continues at Whipsnade Zoo, the UK’s largest zoo and a home for some of nature’s true

of his lifelong contribution to wildlife education. Sixty years ago, in 1956, Sir David and his BBC team, working in partnership with London Zoo, became the first crew ever to film Komodo dragons in their native Indonesia. Sir David also has a long history with Blue Peter, receiving a coveted Gold badge in 2002 and a Green badge in 2019.

Giants at Whipsnade

The adventure continues at Whipsnade Zoo, the UK’s largest zoo and a home for some of nature’s true giants. Here, viewers will learn about breeding programmes and conservation efforts. In one of the episode’s most exciting moments, join keepers for a nighttime patrol equipped with red-filter torches to experience after-hours zoo life. Some animals are crepuscular, meaning they’re most active at dusk, so you never know who might appear – red pandas, or even Hugo the Rhino, a Whipsnade favourite who famously regained his sight after cataract surgery. The team are up at dawn to help with early-morning animal routines, proving that caring for wildlife is a 24-hour commitment.

Get involved

Presenters are even given challenges of their own-with four mystery dishes belonging to animals around the zoo to try and match correctly!

“Blue Peter has always been about getting stuck in and learning by doing,” says Abby, and that’s exactly what ZSL is all about too. At the zoo’s veterinary centre, the presenters learn how animal training supports health and well-being. Incredibly, elephants can be trained to open their mouths on command for check-ups and even enjoy pedicures as keepers carefully file their nails.

A special birthday

The broadcast date 8th May is significant for another reason: it coincides with Sir David Attenborough’s 100th birthday. Blue Peter visits the Attenborough Komodo Dragon House, named after Sir David in recognition

There’s inspiration beyond the screen, too. Young viewers who earn a Blue Peter badge can enjoy free entry to both London Zoo and Whipsnade Zoo, encouraging families to explore conservation first-hand. As Abby sums up, “This isn’t just about amazing animals - it’s about showing kids that they can make a difference.”

Watch Blue Peter on Friday 8th May on CBBC and BBC iPlayer and celebrate ZSL’s 200 years of curiosity, conservation and caring for our planet. Find out more about the ZSL by scanning the QR code.

Photo: ZSL

Photo: ZSL

Photo: BBC

Photo: BBC

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“MY BABY DIED AT 10 WEEKS –NOW I’M DETERMINED TO CHANGE HOW WOMEN ARE SUPPORTED”

Harrogate-based mum Sam Naughton shares her heartbreaking story of baby loss and how her experiences have inspired her to help other women and families who are going through baby loss, pregnancy anxiety or fertility-related trauma.

When Sam became pregnant again shortly afterwards, relief was replaced by overwhelming anxiety. Rather than excitement, she experienced constant fear and hypervigilance. “I didn’t trust my body anymore. I was terrified to go to the bathroom in case I saw blood. I counted down to every scan, holding my breath, never able to relax. I was functioning, but I wasn’t okay,” she explains.

In search of reassurance, Sam attended multiple scans, but found many of the environments

Photo: Sam Naughton

intensified her distress rather than easing it. “So many of the spaces I went into were built purely around celebration. I remember sitting in waiting rooms filled with teddy bears that played recorded heartbeats, plaster casts of newborn feet being made at reception, everything around you focused on joy and new life. I kept thinking how devastating it would be to receive bad news and then have to walk back through all of that, carrying your fear or grief past other people’s happiness.”

completely free talking therapy for women who have experienced baby loss, pregnancy anxiety or fertilityrelated trauma. This support is delivered in partnership with Taking Baby Steps (takingbabysteps.co.uk), led by former bereavement midwife Jane Bamford, ensuring emotional support is accessible regardless of financial circumstances. “We were clear from the outset that emotional support had to be part of what we offer. Grief doesn’t discriminate, and access to care shouldn’t either.”

“The world carried on as normal. I still had to show up, to function, to keep going”

When her son Alby was born safely in 2022, Sam felt immense relief, but also a growing sense that her experiences had exposed a gap in how women are supported through fertility, pregnancy and loss. “I couldn’t stop thinking about how many women were quietly struggling. Women dealing with loss, fertility challenges or pregnancy anxiety, but feeling they had to minimise their feelings or cope alone.”

Not long after Alby’s birth, Sam made the decision to leave her senior corporate career and channel her energy into creating the support she wished had existed for her. In early 2024, she opened Cocoon, a fertility and women’s wellbeing clinic in Harrogate, designed to support women through every stage of their reproductive journey.

Cocoon provides fertility support, pregnancy and wellbeing scans, midwifery care, counselling, acupuncture and practical workshops, all delivered in a calm, considered environment intended to reduce stress and anxiety. Sam explains, “I wanted to create a place that felt human. Somewhere women don’t feel rushed, dismissed or expected to put on a brave face.”

Alongside its clinical services, Cocoon offers

Sam has carefully built a multidisciplinary team of midwives, therapists and practitioners, and says she is deeply grateful to work alongside a team that combines clinical expertise with genuine compassion.

“Technical knowledge matters, but empathy matters just as much. I’m so grateful to work with a team who truly understands how vulnerable these moments can be.”

For Sam, Cocoon represents both purpose and legacy, shaped by personal loss and driven by a determination to ensure other women feel seen, supported and less alone. “I can’t change what happened to us. But if I can help even one woman feel heard and supported during an incredibly difficult time, then something meaningful has come from it.”

For more information about Cocoon, or to access pregnancy, fertility or post-loss support, please visit Cocoon-Hgt.com or follow @Cocoon_ Pregnancy on Instagram.

Photo: Sam Naughton

FROM HAIR LOSS TO HELPING OTHERS

Hair loss after having a baby can come as a shock for many new mums.

Georgina Probert, mum of two and founder of Her Hair My Head, explains why post-partum hair loss happens and shares practical advice to help women manage it with confidence.

There are a few symptoms of pregnancy that most people know about: morning sickness, tiredness, weight gain and sometimes thicker, fuller hair. This happens because hormonal changes alter the natural hair growth cycle, meaning that more hairs stay in the growth phase for longer. As a result, many women notice their hair feels thicker, glossier and more luscious during pregnancy.

What many people don’t realise, however, is that a few months after giving birth your hair cycle resets. When this happens, all of the extra hair that was held in the growth phase during pregnancy is shed. As your hair returns to its normal growth and shedding cycle, some women experience diffuse thinning across the scalp. When new hair begins to grow back, you may notice short tufts of regrowth that stick up around your hairline and parting –a bit like a troll toy!

This type of hormonal hair loss is temporary and is known as telogen effluvium. It can also be triggered by other factors such as stress, illness, vitamin deficiencies, changes in diet and certain medications. Interestingly, many women who are taking weightloss medications have also reported experiencing telogen effluvium as a side effect.

mums, this is yet another unexpected change to their body and can leave them feeling upset, anxious or lacking in confidence.

Georgina’s story

I have a genetic form of hair loss called androgenetic alopecia (also known as female pattern hair loss) and my hair has been slowly thinning since my late teens. When I became pregnant with my first daughter at the age of 30, my hair looked fine but quite flat and lacking in volume.

Hair toppers add volume and coverage at the top of your head

“A few months after giving birth your hair cycle resets”

During pregnancy it did become a little thicker and I enjoyed having more hair to play with.

Although this form of hair loss is temporary, it can take many months for the hair to recover and return to its previous thickness. For many new

However, around three months after giving birth I experienced a significant shed of hair. Because my hair was already quite thin to begin with, I suddenly found that my scalp was much more visible at my hairline and along my parting. I became extremely self-conscious and started wearing hats a lot more.

Her Hair My Head offers free online and in-person consultations to help you find the perfect wig or topper

In 2016, I was diagnosed with alopecia and began a journey of learning, acceptance and finding ways to manage my hair loss. That journey eventually led me to set up my own business helping other women experiencing hair loss. By sharing my story, I hope other women will feel less alone. It is completely normal to feel devastated about losing your hair. It is not vain or shallow. For many women, hair is closely tied to our identity and confidence. It’s often described as our “crowning glory”, and society’s idea of beauty is still heavily linked to thick, long, glossy hair. My mission is to help women navigate hair loss with honest advice, practical solutions and the reassurance that they are not alone.

You are what you eat

Eating a balanced, nutritious diet is one of the best ways to support healthy hair and skin. There is usually no need to take hair supplements unless you have a deficiency. If you are concerned about hair loss, you can speak to your GP and request a blood test to check whether you are lacking key nutrients that support hair growth.

A healthy scalp is the foundation for healthy hair

Shampoo alone won’t necessarily make your hair grow. While many products claim to promote hair growth, they don’t work for everyone. Instead, focus on maintaining a healthy scalp and choose a shampoo suited to your scalp condition and hair type. This helps create the best possible environment for hair growth.

HELPFUL PRODUCTS FOR BOOSTING CONFIDENCE

If thinning hair is making you feel selfconscious, there are a number of non-medical products that can help improve the appearance of your hair.

“It is completely normal to feel devastated

Georgina experienced a hair shedding about three months after having her daughter

Root sprays can make the parting look fuller by coating the hair and reducing the contrast between the hair and scalp. They are also useful for covering grey hairs.

Hair fibres are tiny fibres (often made from cotton or keratin) that resemble small strands of hair. When sprinkled onto thinning areas they attach to existing hair and create the appearance of fuller, thicker coverage.

Hair toppers are another option for women experiencing more noticeable thinning. I often describe them as the “love child of a wig and hair extensions”. Many women don’t need a full wig, but they may not have enough hair density at the crown or parting to use extensions.

Hair toppers clip onto the top of the head and come in a variety of sizes depending on the level of coverage needed. Some are designed simply to add fullness along the parting, while larger bases can cover the whole top of the head from the hairline to the crown. They are available in both synthetic and human hair and can provide a very natural-looking way to restore the hair you have lost.

Georgina Probert is the founder of Her Hair My Head. She helps women experiencing all types of hair loss, including hormonal hair loss, postpartum shedding, menopause-related thinning, alopecia and hair loss caused by cancer treatments. Georgina has been wearing hair toppers for more than 10 years and offers free in-person consultations in Westerham, Kent, as well as online consultations across the UK. Find out more at herhairmyhead.co.uk

5 reasons why families choose Post Office Travel Insurance

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Kids go free on family policies

We know how important it is to keep kids covered, especially when you’re away from home. That’s why they’re included on your family policy at no extra cost if they’re under 18 with no medical conditions.

Protect gadgets –and travel plans

Keep your family’s tech safe with optional gadget cover. And add extra protection like trip disruption or cruise cover for added peace of mind, available for an additional premium.

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Delays don’t have to spoil your family holiday. If your flight is delayed by two hours or more, you can get a free lounge voucher or, where available, a cash payout when you choose our Premier cover with Flight Delay Assistance Plus.2

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You can pick from three types of cover: Economy, Standard or Premier. Choose the one that fits your trip. Our Premier cover gives up to £15 million for medical emergencies and has a 5-star Defaqto rating, giving you extra reassurance when travelling with your family.

24/7 medical help, wherever you are From tummy bugs to temperatures, kids’ illnesses can crop up at any time. Luckily, all our policies come with 24/7 access to medical support3 while you’re abroad, so help is never far away.

Our Premier-level travel insurance policies are independently rated 5 stars by Defaqto, a trusted industry standard.

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WHAT'S HOT!

up on the latest

CANDIA PARK VILLAGE, CRETE

Introduces ‘Village Renaissance’ programme for authentic Cretan experiences

WYNDHAM PORTOCOLOM MALLORCA, SPAIN

Opening April 2026

IDILIQ Hotels & Resorts announces the upcoming opening of Wyndham Portocolom Mallorca, set to open in April 2026, offering family-friendly, self-catering accommodation among resort facilities. Located just 150m from Cala Marçal beach, Wyndham Portocolom provides a peaceful hideaway with a local feel: a home away from home. The modern studios and one- to two-bedroom apartments each boast their own private balcony, openplan living areas and kitchenettes, providing the utmost flexibility. The resort will offer relaxed dining, co-working, a swimming pool, gym, games arcade, sports court and even an on-site cinema. Nightly rates to be confirmed.

Resembling a soulful and colourful Cretan village, the family-friendly Candia Park Village is introducing a new ‘Village Renaissance’ concept in 2026, designed to celebrate authentic Cretan life and traditions through immersive family experiences. A highlight of this will include the launch of the new ‘Glenti’ experience, inspired by local village festivals. This is a small open-air marketplace where local producers and artisans will offer charming stalls selling handmade crafts, jewellery, clothing and regional delicacies such as honey, olive oil and sweet treats. Nightly rates from £92.

out more at: candiapark.com

Wyndham Portocolom Mallorca, Spain

Candia Park Village, Crete

HILLSIDE BEACH CLUB, FETHIYE, TURKEY

A calendar of unmissable events

Known for its annual calendar of ‘Feel Good’ events and family-friendly magic, Hillside Beach Club, Fethiye, Turkey, will open on 18th April this year. The 2026 calendar includes bi-annual Feel Good Weeks featuring unmissable fitness and wellness classes (9th-16th May and 4th-11th October), film screenings brought to life with screen talks and interactive workshops in collaboration with The British Film Institute (6th-10th July) and world-class musical performances, from Classical Music on the Sea (7th August) to London Jazz in the Sun (16th-17th August, 20th-21st September and 18th-19th October). Nightly rates start from £176.

Find out more at: elegantresorts.co.uk

LUJO HOTEL, BODRUM, TURKEY

A kids club that stays up later than you

Lujo Hotel Bodrum is rewriting the rules of family-friendly luxury with a firstof-its-kind offering: a Kids Club that’s open until 2am. This groundbreaking service means parents no longer have to choose between family holidays and nightlife – at Lujo, they can have both. While children enjoy Kijo Club, complete with a Lego room, science lab, art and music studios, basketball academy, theatre, and even creative workshops in painting, ceramics, and wood design, parents are free to enjoy Bodrum’s legendary nightlife. From sipping cocktails at Opa! Beach Club to dancing beneath the stars, adults

can indulge in unforgettable nights knowing their little ones are safe, happy, and entertained under expert supervision. Kijo Club features its own dedicated dining and napping areas, ensuring little guests are well-fed and rested while parents enjoy the evening. Younger children have their own soft play area with dedicated childcare professionals, while tweens and teens can celebrate their independence with laser tag and dance and mocktail workshops. Nightly rates in the One Bedroom Sunset Villas start from £3,315. Kijo Club welcomes children aged 1-17 years old and is free of charge. Inroom nanny services are available at €40 an hour plus 11.5% service.

Find out more at: lujohotel.com

Hillside Beach Club, Fethiye, Turkey

Hillside Beach Club, Fethiye, Turkey

Lujo Hotel, Bodrum, Turkey

Lujo Hotel, Bodrum, Turkey

A tranquil stay in the heart of

LONDON

Becky Todd, her husband and her two children (aged two and six) enjoyed a two-night stay at The Hari Hotel in London, discovering the perfect balance between exploring a bustling city and relaxing in a luxurious retreat – a combination that kept the whole family happy.

From the moment we arrived at The Hari Hotel it was easy to see how it has earned its 5-star reputation. After a short taxi journey from the tube station, we were welcomed by a friendly member of the team helping all family members out of the taxi, with suitcases and prams scooped up and disappearing as if by magic onto a luggage trolley. This calm, efficient welcome instantly set the tone for our stay.

Inside, the honey-hued interiors of the hotel felt warm, stylish and wonderfully calming. Staff members made such an effort with the girls,

really taking the time to make sure they felt welcomed and special when we arrived – a small touch that made a big difference after a day of travelling.

The first floor is home to a beautiful bar area with lots of soft, snug seating areas for families to nestle into. It also features a

secluded outdoor terrace area, wrapped in greenery and trailing vines, cocooning you from floor to ceiling. This was one of the girls’ favourite places and the perfect spot for them to slurp apple juice while planning the day ahead.

“Every space oozes luxury, yet children never feel out of place”

Throughout the hotel, the interiors are warm, stylish and impeccably clean. Every space oozes luxury, yet children never feel out of place. The Hari seemed to have mastered the elusive balance: a hotel that feels indulgent while remaining genuinely comfortable and welcoming for little ones.

“The hotel is perfectly positioned and in walking distance of some of London’s best free family attractions”

Room to relax (and play)

With many family hotel packages offering little more than a travel cot squeezed into a standard room, we were curious to see how The Hari approached family stays. The result far exceeded expectations.

and manageable for all.

The main bedroom felt like a peaceful adult retreat featuring a stunning bathroom with a window-placed bath showcasing the most beautiful London skyline. The bedroom itself was spacious with a lounge-style seating area, which was the perfect place to unwind once the little ones were settled.

The suite worked perfectly for our family. The girls had space to play, relax and sleep, while we had our own sanctuary to enjoy a hot drink and a moment of calm. It felt like a true home away from home, practically and thoughtfully designed with families in mind.

“Between the two rooms was a connecting corridor that provided just the right amount of separation that felt safe and manageable for all”

The Family First package includes a thoughtfully designed two-bedroom suite. Upon entering, we were greeted with a spacious hallway with ample storage, perfect for hiding everything that comes with travelling with small children. The first bathroom was generously sized, with beautiful interiors and a shower that the girls insisted we all stand in to see if we could fit into and even with four people, there was room to spare!

The girls’ room was thoughtfully set up with a teepee tent, toys and beautifully presented biscuits tailored to their interests (which were, of course, immediately devoured). A Tonie box and selection of Tonies were also waiting, keeping the girls happily entertained from the moment we arrived.

Between the two rooms was a connecting corridor that provided just the right amount of separation that felt safe

Mealtimes made easy

Eating away from home with little ones can sometimes be stressful, but the Il Pampero hotel restaurant made mealtimes easy and enjoyable. Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, the restaurant offers a dedicated three-course children’s menu, alongside a varied and delicious menu for adults. The team were incredibly accommodating, happily adapting dishes to suit even the fussiest of eaters. A personalised plate of smiley-face pancakes quickly won over our smallest diner at breakfast, keeping them happy all morning. The restaurant itself is bright, welcoming and stylish, with enough space for little legs to stretch between courses. Highchairs and all the essentials are readily available and staff are always on hand to help, making family dining feel relaxed and enjoyable.

Location, location, location

One of The Hari’s standout features for families is its location. Entertaining both a two- and six-year-old can prove tricky at the best of times, but here there is so much to do right on your doorstep. The hotel is perfectly positioned and in walking distance of some of London’s best free family attractions, meaning we didn’t have to rely on public transport for anything. Some of our family favourites included:

Harrods Toy Department

(10-minute walk)

Hyde Park Playground (15-minute walk away)

NaturalMuseumHistory

(20-minute walk)

Science Museum (20-minute walk)

Army Museum (20-minute walk)

“One of The Hari’s standout features for families is its location”

OUR FAMILY VERDICT

If you’re looking to spend a few days in London with your family, enjoying what the city has to offer, but don’t like the stress of relying on public transport with little ones, The Hari Hotel offers the perfect solution. A hotel that delivers something special for both parents and children, it’s an ideal base for a memorable family break in London.

Discover The Hari Hotel’s ‘Easter Escape’ family package, available from 17th March-11th April, along with their full range of familyfriendly offers by scanning the QR code.

familymadeadventures oh so easy.

With 20+ activities and tuition included in the price, promising the kids an amazing time has never been easier. Say hello to active beach club holidays... the Mark Warner way.

Why do families love Mark Warner holidays?

• Superb choice of beach club resorts in Turkey and Greece

• Fantastic sport & leisure facilities, plus delicious food as standard

• 20+ sports and activities with expert tuition included

• Signature kids' clubs included (extra charges for those under two)

• Family rooms, half board dining and choice of UK flights

To find your perfect Mark Warner family holiday, call 020 7361 8880 or visit markwarner.co.uk

A wild family

escape

Deputy Editor Becky Todd,

her husband and her two children (aged two and six), swapped the ordinary for the extraordinary, with an unforgettable overnight stay at Port Lympne Safari Park in Kent – where a family safari adventure turned into a wild experience they’ll never forget.

There are some family trips you hope will stay with your children forever. Watching our little ones’ faces light up at every turn during our stay at Port Lympne Hotel and Reserve, tells me this might just be one of them.

Arrive in style

Our outdoor adventure began from the very moment we collected our golf buggy. Guests staying at Leopards Creek are given their own golf buggy for the duration of their stay. Loading our luggage onto a vehicle with no doors was exciting enough for the girls, but when we told them the best part – that we’d have full access to roam around the reserve from dawn till dusk to visit the animals – their squeals of delight said it all.

With luggage loaded, we made our way to Leopards Creek: a luxury cabin and wigwam accommodation sleeping two to four people. This was, of course, after a slight detour to introduce ourselves to the remarkable animals we’d be sharing our home with for the night.

“Everything exuded luxury – something we hadn’t anticipated from a cabin stay, particularly one with children”

The buggy, complete with built in Sat Nav and digital park map, made the perfect chariot for our whistle-stop wildlife tour. Weaving past gorillas, tigers and rhinos was an unforgettable way to start our adventure.

Cabin comfort redefined

After introducing ourselves to everyone from red pandas to rhino, we arrived at Leopards Creek. Having never stayed in cabin accommodation as a family, we were unsure of what to expect. From the moment we stepped inside, we were blown away with our new home.

Soothing sage green interiors cocooned you from head to toe, whilst rustic accessories paid homage to the surrounding landscape. Everything exuded luxury; something we hadn’t anticipated from a cabin stay, particularly one with children. The cabin was thoughtfully designed with luxurious finishes throughout, with expertly placed space-saving hacks stealing the show. Clever zoning made the space feel far larger than its footprint, feeling far less cabin like and more a carefully curated sanctuary, with remarkable views across the reserve.

“Seeing the girls stand in awe of these gentle giants was incredibly special”

The girls’ favourite feature was toddling upstairs to their rooftop bedroom, and ours was the wood-burning stove perfectly positioned for soaking in those spectacular views. Every detail elevated the experience: from the monsoon shower, flat screen HD TV, welcome drinks, and perhaps the most exciting of all, marshmallows for toasting on our private terrace fire pit, made so much more special on a backdrop of nature.

A feast to remember

Once settled, we made our way to the main house to dine at The Garden Room Restaurant. The mansion itself was breathtaking and The Garden Room – a stunning orangery with trailing plants, blooms and grand chandeliers – instantly impressed even our most tiny food critics.

The ambience was warm and magical with an unmistakable sense of grandeur. A varied menu caters beautifully to adults, alongside a dedicated threecourse children’s menu. The staff were wonderfully accommodating ensuring high chairs and family-friendly touches were seamlessly provided throughout.

Dining here reinforced a theme we might not have been expecting on an activity-based overnight stay with children: luxury. So often activity-led family breaks involve compromise. At Port Lympne, it’s quite the opposite. The children were as captivated by the enchanting surroundings as we were and the promise of toasted marshmallows by the fire was the perfect way to end the day.

Into the wild

After a blissful night’s sleep and a delicious breakfast back at The Garden Room, it was time for more adventure. We started our day with an animal safari encounter, guided by one of Port Lympne’s expert rangers. The sheer scale of the safari truck alone had the girls wide-eyed with wonder.

“The cabin was thoughtfully designed with luxurious finishes throughout, with expertly placed space-saving hacks stealing the show”

As we travelled across the reserve, they listened intently, eager to learn more about the animals and the vital conservation work taking place. Experiencing the excitement through their eyes made it even more special and reminded us all how truly unforgettable this experience is.

Pizza pitstop

Following the safari (and a return visit to favourites, Kisima the rhino and Sangha the gorilla), we visited Baby Doll’s WoodFired Pizza restaurant for lunch. Warm, cosy and authentically Italian in feel, the restaurant was the perfect lunch spot. The girls loved watching the chefs prepare fresh sourdough pizza and pasta, and the food – as with every meal during our stay – was superb. Perfectly positioned beside

one of the reserve’s play parks, it allowed the girls to go and burn off some energy immediately after eating. Thoughtful touches like this make all the difference to families, giving us a moment to relax.

Unforgettable encounters

The highlight for the girls (and us), was the privilege of getting even closer to our new animal friends. The reserve offers a range of small-group animal encounters alongside daily talks and feeding sessions.

We were booked onto the giraffe encounter. This gave the girls another opportunity to climb back onto their beloved safari truck and make our way to the giraffe house. Seeing the girls stand in awe of these gentle giants was incredibly special. With guidance from the ranger, we learned fascinating insights about these creatures, as well as a little about their personalities. And, of course, the highlight of the trip was being able to hand feed the tallest residents of the park – the perfect finale to our overnight adventure.

Final thoughts

If you’re looking for an activity-led family escape that doesn’t compromise on adult luxury, Port Lympne is the perfect choice. From exceptional accommodation and exquisite food to unforgettable wildlife encounters, every detail is designed to create the most magical memories.

Spending the night within the reserve transforms the experience entirely, creating a sense of exclusivity and immersion that makes everything feel truly special. Port Lympne has mastered the art of balancing adventure with indulgence – resulting in a family stay that feels both exciting and restorative. An unforgettable experience that transports you far beyond the Kent countryside and one our family will treasure for years to come.

More information about visiting Port Lympne Hotel & Reserve, including animal encounters, overnight stays and a range of other experiences on offer can be found by scanning by the QR code.

Life Insurance

Get a £100 gift card† when you take out a policy with Post Office

Life Insurance

Life is full of important moments — and protecting the people who matter most is one of them. Life insurance is designed to provide financial support to your loved ones if you pass away during the policy term.

It can help cover key expenses such as mortgage or rent payments, everyday living costs, or future financial needs — offering reassurance during a difficult time. With cover available up to £750,000 (depending on age),

it’s a straightforward way to provide peace of mind now and financial protection for the future.

As a thank you for choosing Post Office Life Insurance, you can select a £100 Dining Out, M&S or Amazon.co.uk Gift Card* †T&C’s apply

Apply online at www.postoffice.co.uk/life-cover/familyfirst or call us on 0800 085 7737††

Why families trust Post Office Life Insurance

Cover you can trust

Post Office Life Insurance is provided by Scottish Friendly, who paid 99.1% of life insurance claims they received in 2024. So it’s reassuring to know that your policy is backed by a provider trusted by thousands of other families.

Support for your children’s future

Whether it’s school fees or setting them up for what’s next, a cash payout from your policy could make a lasting difference.

Help your family stay at home

Our decreasing cover is designed to help protect your mortgage, with the payout amount reducing as your mortgage does. That way, your loved ones can stay at home where they feel safe and settled.

Complete protection with optional extras

You can also choose to pay extra for children’s cover and critical illness cover for even more peace of mind.

24/7 GP access

As a policy holder, you’ll get 24/7 UK registered GP access online or by phone. This covers you, your partner and children up to the age of 21. There’s no limit on how many times you can use it. Access other benefits through our health and wellbeing services** 1 2 3 4 5

**This service is separate from Post Office Life Insurance’s policy contract. It’s free but may be withdrawn at any time.

How much could cover cost you?

Here’s a look at how much life cover could cost based on your age: ?

Age 35 38 40 45

based on non-smokers in good

buying

level cover over an 18-year term. Based on Finder’s 2025 report, the average price of coffee in the UK is £3.35. https://www.finder.com/uk/banking/average-price-of-a-coffee.

†£100 gift card offer minimum premium and 180-day qualifying period applies. For offer terms and conditions please visit https://www.postoffice.co.uk/life-insurance-gift-terms

††Calls to 03 numbers will cost no more than calling a standard UK number starting with 01 or 02 from your fixed line or mobile and may be included in your call package. Calls may be monitored or recorded for training and compliance purposes.

* Restrictions apply, see amazon.co.uk/gc-legal

INSIDE MITSIS SELECTION RINELA,

A RESORT DESIGNED FOR EPIC ALLINCLUSIVE FAMILY HOLIDAYS IN CRETE

A beachfront resort on Crete’s northern coast is redefining family holidays with thoughtful design, great food and plenty for every age to enjoy.

A beachfront premium all - inclusive setting on Crete’s northern coast

Family holidays are often about finding the right balance: somewhere children can play freely while adults can relax, recharge and enjoy the surroundings. On the northern coast of Crete, Mitsis Selection Rinela has quietly become one of those places that seems to strike that balance well. Located in the coastal village of Kokkini Hani, just a short drive from Heraklion, the resort sits directly on a long stretch of sandy shoreline. It’s an easy arrival too, with the airport around 10 kilometres away – ideal for families travelling with younger children who would rather start their holiday sooner rather than later. The setting feels relaxed and unhurried, with views stretching across the Cretan Sea and the gentle rhythm of beach life shaping the pace of the day

A fresh look for a well-loved resort

Originally opened in 1990, the resort has undergone extensive renovations in recent years, introducing a more contemporary look while keeping the relaxed feel that families appreciate.

Accommodation now ranges from bright superior rooms to larger family suites and villas, many surrounded by gardens or overlooking the sea. Several

room types feature swim-up or shared pool access, meaning morning swims can begin just a few steps from the terrace. For families travelling together, the suites are particularly practical. Clever layouts allow for separate sleeping spaces, creating a little breathing room for parents and children alike. Inside, rooms are designed with comfort in mind: light-filled interiors, spacious bathrooms and thoughtful extras such as coffee machines, stocked minibars and generous balconies or terraces.

“Food plays a central role in any holiday, and here it’s approached with a sense of variety rather than formality”

Dining that goes beyond the buffet

Food plays a central role in any holiday, and here it’s approached with a sense of variety rather than formality. The main restaurant offers an ever-changing spread of Greek and international dishes with live cooking stations, while several themed restaurants allow guests to explore different cuisines throughout the week. Italian favourites, grilled steaks, Greek classics and Asianinspired dishes all feature on the menus. During the day, more relaxed options appear around the resort. A pizza station near the beach, casual barbecue grills and a poolside creperie make it easy to grab something between swims. Breakfast is particularly enjoyable, with a strong emphasis on local flavours. Traditional Cretan dishes sit alongside freshly squeezed juices and international options, creating a slow and sociable start to the day.

Designed with families in mind

One of the reasons families return to the resort is the thoughtful attention given to younger guests. Children can spend their days at Mitsis Storyland, a colourful kids’ club where activities range from crafts and

largest aquariums in the Mediterranean and a favourite outing for children curious about marine life. Nearby Watercity Waterpark offers a more energetic day out with slides and rides suited to all ages. For those keen to explore further, excursions around Crete – from archaeological sites to mountain villages – can easily be arranged.

Evenings by the sea

“Accommodation

now ranges from bright superior rooms to larger family suites and villas, many surrounded by gardens or overlooking the sea”

games to mini discos and outdoor play. For parents, it offers the welcome reassurance that children are entertained in a safe and supervised environment. From Summer 2026, the resort will introduce an expanded range of family facilities. Plans include a new outdoor playground and a lively splash park complete with slides, water towers and interactive spray games. For older children and teenagers, a new Teens Club will offer its own dedicated space – a mix of gaming lounges, sports areas and social hangouts designed with older kids in mind.

Days by the water

Life at Rinela naturally revolves around the water. The sandy beach directly in front of the resort has been awarded the internationally recognised Blue Flag for cleanliness and safety, making it ideal for families with young swimmers. Sunbeds and umbrellas line the shore, while the calm sea often feels more like a giant natural swimming pool. Back within the resort, several pools provide different spaces for relaxation or play. Some are designed for quieter moments, while others host games and activities organised by the recreation team. Guests who prefer a more active holiday can join beach volleyball matches, play tennis or try the outdoor fitness area. New padel courts, launching in 2026, will add another popular sport to the mix.

Exploring beyond the resort

While many families find everything they need within the resort, the surrounding area also offers plenty to discover. Just a short distance away is Cretaquarium, one of the

As the sun dips behind the horizon, the pace shifts again. Evenings often begin with a relaxed dinner followed by live music, performances or family shows in the open-air theatre. Younger guests gather for the nightly mini disco while adults linger over drinks on sea-view terraces. It’s a gentle end to the day – the kind where children fall asleep happily tired and parents begin planning the next day’s adventures.

The appeal of shared moments

What stands out most about a stay here isn’t any single feature, but the way the resort seems designed around shared family moments. Morning swims before breakfast. Long afternoons at the beach. Children racing between playgrounds and pools. Parents enjoying a quiet coffee while watching it all unfold. In a world where family time can feel increasingly busy, places like this remind us how enjoyable it can be to slow down together beside the sea.

For more information on Mitsis Selection Rinela, visit mitsis. com/en or scan the QR code to find out more about this resort & availability.

Discover the Perfect Family Escape at Rixos

Premium Magawish Suites & Villas & Rixos

Premium Magawish Bay View, Hurghada EgyptDouble the luxury

TWO EXCEPTIONAL DISCOVER THE PERFECT FAMILY ESCAPE

A TALE OF

RESORTS

Rixos Premium Magawish

Known for its expansive grounds, endless activities, and signature Rixos elegance, Rixos Premium Magawish Suites & Villas offers the ideal blend of excitement and relaxation. Wide open spaces, pristine beaches, and an array of family-friendly facilities make it a favorite destination for travelers seeking both comfort and fun.

Where turquoise waters meet golden sandy shores, a world of unforgettable family luxury awaits. Set along one of Hurghada’s most spectacular beachfronts, Rixos Premium Magawish Suites & Villas and the newly opened Rixos Premium Magawish Bay View bring together the best of premium allinclusive hospitality, extraordinary entertainment, and serene Red Sea beauty.

Whether you dream of sun-soaked relaxation, vibrant adventures, or a holiday filled with memorable family moments, these two exceptional resorts redefine what it means to experience luxury on Egypt’s Red Sea Coast.

Rixos Premium Magawish Bay View

The brand-new addition to the Rixos family in Hurghada, Bay View introduces a fresh level of modern sophistication. Designed with contemporary architecture, calming interiors, and elevated privacy, this resort promises guests an upgraded

experience with mesmerizing panoramic views of the Red Sea.

Together, the two resorts create a world where families, couples, and friends can discover the perfect getaway tailored to their every desire.

Luxurious Rooms & Private Sanctuaries

Both resorts offer beautifully designed accommodations that capture the essence of refined seaside living.

At Rixos Premium Magawish, spacious suites and villas are nestled among lush gardens and tranquil pathways, giving families a sense of space and freedom. Meanwhile, Rixos Premium Magawish Bay View offers brand-new rooms and suites with a modern, sleek aesthetic, ideal for guests who appreciate contemporary luxury and breathtaking balcony views. For those who want the ultimate in privacy and indulgence, a selection of exclusive villas provides direct pool access, and premium services designed for unforgettable stays.

A Culinary Journey Around the Globe

Food lovers will be spoiled for choice with a world-class selection of à la carte restaurants and vibrant buffet venues across both properties. Guests can delight in cuisines from: Mediterranean Asian & Far Eastern

Turkish

Italian

Seafood specialties

Steakhouses

International favorites

Families will also appreciate kid-friendly dining options, relaxed snack corners, artisanal coffee shops, refreshing bars, and the signature all-inclusive premium beverage program that Rixos is known for.

Every meal becomes a celebration whether you’re savoring fresh grilled seafood by the beach or enjoying colorful, family-friendly dishes with your little ones.

Endless Fun for Kids & Teens

Families are at the heart of both resorts. Young guests can spend their days exploring endless fun at Rixy Kids Club, featuring:

Creative arts & crafts sessions

Fun sports activities

Indoor & outdoor playgrounds

Engaging educational programs

Daily shows and themed events

A kids-only pool area

Relaxation & Wellness for Adults

While the children play, adults can unwind at the serene Anjana Spa, offering:

Rejuvenating massages

Turkish hammam rituals

Saunas & steam rooms

Beauty treatments

Couples massage

The beautiful, wide sandy beach invites guests to enjoy peaceful sunbathing, luxury cabanas, and the gentle sound of Red Sea waves the perfect backdrop for relaxation.

Activities, Sports & Daily Entertainment

Whether you’re looking for excitement or tranquility, the resorts offer a full calendar of activities:

Beach volleyball

Fitness classes & yoga

Tennis & paddle courts

Aqua aerobics

Water sports & snorkeling

Live daytime animations

Horse riding with onsite stables

And when the sun sets, the fun continues with:

Live music

DJ nights

Dance performances

Spectacular shows

Family entertainment

Bringing the whole resort to life with vibrant energy and unforgettable performances.

Where Memories Are Made

”At Rixos Premium Magawish and Rixos Premium Magawish Bay View,

every moment is designed to delight. Our commitment is to create an extraordinary experience for every guest filled with luxury, joy, family connection, and the magic of the Red Sea.”

Whether you’re planning a family escape, a romantic retreat, or a memorable gathering with loved ones, these two remarkable Rixos resorts in Hurghada promise an experience where dreams transform into cherished memories.

For bookings and more information, please visit Rixos.com

Instagram: @rixospremiummagawish | @rixospremiummagawishbayview

ONE SHOP, FIVE MEALS, LESS WASTE

Ashleigh Mogford, aka social media star the ‘Cardiff Mum’, explains the inspiration behind her new book 5 Meals for £25, and how following a weekly meal plan can save you time and money.

For years, my weekly food shop followed the same pattern as many people: I’d walk into the supermarket without a plan and pick up whatever looked good or happened to be on offer. I’d decide on meals as I went along, adding extra ingredients to the basket for each dish. It felt spontaneous at the time, but every couple of weeks I’d do a fridge clearout and realise how much food I was throwing away. Half a tub of crème fraîche. A bag of grated parmesan. Mushrooms that had gone soft before I got around to using them. The same ingredients, wasted again and again.

WRITE IT DOWN

ingredients that can work in more than one meal. When you build your week around shared ingredients, everything becomes easier. You waste less, spend less and cooking during the week feels far less stressful.

A good example is chorizo slices. They cost around 99p in most supermarkets, but they add a huge amount of flavour. I’ll use half in one meal – maybe stirred through a pasta or a traybake – and the rest in another dish later in the week. Because the slices are thin, you don’t need much to make a meal feel exciting.

PLAN THE WEEK

Once you start thinking this way, planning five dinners from one shop becomes surprisingly straightforward. For example, a single pack of chicken can become a chicken and chorizo traybake one night and a creamy chicken pasta the next. A bag of mushrooms might appear in a midweek risotto and then again in a simple omelette. The goal isn’t complicated cooking, it’s making ingredients work harder.

Using this approach, I’ve been able to plan

“The goal isn’t complicated cooking, it’s making ingredients work harder”

The first real change I made was simple: plan the meals before I went shopping and write a proper list. Instead of buying ingredients for completely separate meals, I started thinking about how one ingredient could stretch across two dishes. That small shift made a huge difference. My food waste dropped and my shopping bill went down noticeably.

Now my number-one rule when planning a weekly shop on a budget is this: choose

LOADED SWEET CHORIZO

POTATOES

I love a jacket potato all year round, so this is one of my summer go-tos. Leave your oven to do the hard work and 1 hour later you’ve got a crispy, comforting delight. They are even better when you load them up with caramelised chorizo sausages, melt-in-the-mouth mozzarella and a refreshing dollop of natural yoghurt with crunchy spring onions and coriander.

PREP TIME: 10 MINUTES

COOK TIME: 1 HOUR

SERVES: 4

INGREDIENTS

Olive oil

4 sweet potatoes

Salt and pepper

1 onion, chopped

4 cloves of garlic, minced

6 chorizo-style sausages

METHOD

1

Preheat the oven to 200°C fan. Drizzle olive oil over 4 sweet potatoes and season with salt and pepper then rub the oil in. Place in the microwave for 10 minutes (15 if using large sweet potatoes), then remove, place on a baking tray, cover with foil and place in the oven for 45 minutes, or until fully cooked.

2

While they’re cooking, add the chopped onion to a frying pan with the garlic and some oil and fry for a few minutes to soften. Then squeeze the sausage meat from the inside of the chorizo-style sausages into the pan with the chicken seasoning, use a spatula to break the meat up into small pieces and let it fry for around 10 minutes until caramelized and cooked through. Turn off the heat until the sweet potatoes are ready.

3

When they’re ready, remove them, cut down the middle and open them up. Turn the heat back on for the sausage meat, add the sliced mozzarella to the top of the meat and cover with a lid for a few minutes so it melts.

1 teaspoon chicken seasoning

125g fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced

4 tablespoons natural yoghurt

3 spring onions, chopped

A handful of fresh coriander, chopped

4

Spoon the cheese-topped sausage directly inside each sweet potato. Top each with a tablespoon of yoghurt, chopped spring onion and fresh coriander.

Recipe from Mum’s 5 Meals For £25 by Ashleigh Mogford, published by Penguin Michael Joseph in February 2026 (RRP £25.00).

For more information,

visit: Instagram: @cardiff.mum

TikTok: @cardiff.mum

HAPPY, HEALTHY EASTER

Award-winning chef, food writer and TV presenter Clodagh McKenna shares her expert family-friendly tips to make Easter healthy, nourishing and enjoyable for the whole family.

Easter has always felt like a moment of renewal to me. The days grow longer; spring produce starts to appear in my garden. It’s a time to gather friends and family around the table, sharing food that’s been cooked with love. Some of our happiest family memories are made around meals – and Easter is no different.

Easter is also a wonderful opportunity to get children involved in cooking. Encouraging children to take part from an early age can make a real difference in helping them develop healthy habits and a positive relationship with food. Whether

it’s heading into the garden to see what’s growing, going to the supermarket together to choose seasonal vegetables, or asking them to help plan meals for the week. When children feel involved, they’re more curious, more confident and far more excited to sit down and enjoy what’s been served.

In my new book Clodagh’s Happy Cooking, I’ve included lots of simple, family-friendly recipes that children can easily get involved with. From Breakfast Smoothies and Blissful Banana Pancakes to vegetable dips and, of course, baking – always a firm favourite with all the family. Children love measuring, mixing and seeing ingredients come together. It also helps them understand what

goes into their food. Recipes from my book such as flapjacks, chocolate biscuit cake and blueberry muffins, are fun to make together and perfect for sharing over the Easter break.

“When children feel involved, they’re more curious, more confident and far more excited to sit down and enjoy what’s been served”

PREP AHEAD

A little preparation goes a long way when it comes to enjoying Easter entertaining. Choosing recipes that can be made ahead, such as slow-cooked dishes, salads and desserts, takes the pressure off and allows more time to spend with the family.

A FEW TIPS

Keeping the menu simple and seasonal is key

FEEL-GOOD BRUNCH

Why not begin Easter Sunday with a lovely brunch before the egg-hunting starts? It’s a great way to bring everyone together and a nutritious way to start the day. Easter is such a fun time to cook with children, and brunch recipes are often the easiest for them to help with.

I start my day by collecting eggs from my hens, but you can get the children cracking eggs to mix up batter for pancakes or French toast. Little hands can help whisk, stir and pour, while older children can safely chop fruit to serve on the side. Fresh berries or bananas work beautifully.

They can also help prepare a healthy and delicious juice, or my peanut butter and banana smoothie, both from Clodagh’s Happy Cooking, so tasty and so nutritious. It’s a simple way to show children that healthy food can be comforting, delicious and fun.

Set the table in advance

Plan a menu with family sharing dishes that can be prepared before guests arrive. This can help make the day feel relaxed and fun rather than feeling rushed Preparing the vegetables and desserts in advance can really help

DECORATING MADE EASY

This is a perfect activity to do with children. Children will love the sense of responsibility, but also letting their creativity run free.

Foraging in the garden or local woods for flowers, branches or blossoms is a lovely activity to do with children. I often make little nests from twigs and fill them with small eggs to use as table decorations. It’s sustainable, creative and adds a natural beauty to the table.

AN EASTER TREE

A simple yet beautiful way to bring spring into your home, and it’s a wonderful project to do with children. It celebrates the season, encourages creativity and makes use of natural, foraged materials –something I always love. To create your Easter tree, start by gathering branches from the garden or on a countryside walk, blossom, willow or any twigs that are an interesting shape. Place them in a jug or vase weighted with pebbles or stones so they stand up. Then it’s time to decorate: wooden or paper eggs can be painted, drawn on or covered with stickers and ribbons look so eye-catching on the tree. The beauty of an Easter tree is that it doesn’t need to be perfect; it should feel playful, light and full of personality. The finished tree makes a lovely centrepiece for the Easter table or a cheerful display in the kitchen, and it can stay up throughout the Easter holidays.

CHOCOLATE DONE THE SMART WAY

For me, Easter is about togetherness, simplicity and celebrating the season. By involving children, cooking with seasonal ingredients and keeping things relaxed, we can create memories that last far longer than the chocolate eggs themselves.

For more simple and healthy recipes from Clodagh McKenna check out her new book ‘Clodagh’s Happy Cookbook’.

“With Easter Eggs often filling the house, it’s helpful to think creatively about how chocolate is enjoyed”

With Easter Eggs often filling the house, it’s helpful to think creatively about how chocolate is enjoyed. Rather than eating it all at once, families could use small amounts of chocolate in healthier recipes. Here are a few ideas:

Melting a little into porridge

Grating it over fruit

Adding a small amount to a homemade chilli brings a real depth to the flavour

Making homemade energy bites with the chocolate, nuts, oats and seeds.

AN EASTER FEAST TO REMEMBER

Award-winning chef and bestselling cookbook author Clodagh McKenna brings us three delicious, familyfriendly recipes, perfect for little chefs to help make with you in the kitchen.

SATAY SALMON

NOODLES

SERVES: 4

INGREDIENTS

80ml soy sauce

Juice and zest of 1 lime

60ml toasted sesame oil

1 tbsp honey

1 tbsp rice wine vinegar

2 garlic cloves, crushed

2-inch piece of fresh ginger, thinly sliced

2 small pak choi, halved

1 tbsp peanuts, chopped

1 spring onion, thinly sliced

1 tbsp fresh coriander, chopped

Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper

To serve: 1 lime, cut in half

METHOD

1

Start by making the satay sauce. Place the soy sauce, lime juice and zest, sesame oil, honey, vinegar, garlic, ginger, hoisin sauce, and peanut butter, along with one tablespoon of water in a blender. Blend until you reach a smooth consistency.

2

Place the two salmon filets in a bowl, and pour over half of the sauce. Mix the sauce well into the salmon, cover and place in the refrigerator for 30 minutes.

3

Place a frying pan over a medium heat, and add a dessertspoon of olive oil. Remove the salmon fillets from the marinade, shaking off the excess, and place them in the hot skillet. Sear for 5 minutes, or until browned on the bottom, and then turn and cook for 5 minutes or until cooked. Transfer the salmon to a plate, cover and allow to rest.

4

5

1 tbsp hoisin sauce

2 filets of salmon

1 tbsp peanut butter

2 egg noodle nests

1 large red bell pepper, thinly sliced

Cook the noodles according to the packet instructions, and then set aside.

Add the sliced red peppers and pak choi to the frying pan and cook, stirring constantly, for 2-3 minutes, or until tender-crisp. Add the rest of the satay sauce to the frying pan and heat through. Add the noodles to the pan and toss to coat with the sauce.

6

Distribute the noodles and vegetables evenly among 4 warmed bowls. Top each bowl with a salmon fillet. Sprinkle each plate generously with peanuts, spring onions, and the fresh coriander. Serve with lime wedges.

MEATBALLS WITH CHILLI TOMATO STYLE SICILIAN

SERVES:

INGREDIENTS

For the meatballs:

200g ground beef

200g ground pork

200g ricotta cheese

1 onion, diced

4 garlic cloves, crushed

METHOD

1

Place the ground beef, pork, ricotta, onions, garlic, rosemary, parmesan, breadcrumbs and beaten egg in a bowl and season with sea salt and freshly ground black pepper. Mix well.

Using your hands shape 30 meatballs, and transfer to a lightly floured plate. Cover and place in a fridge for an hour. This sets them so that they don’t crumble when you start cooking them. You could also leave the meatballs in the fridge for up to three days or freeze them until you are ready to cook them.

1 tbsp fresh rosemary, finely chopped

80g parmesan, grated

40g fine breadcrumbs

1 egg, beaten (We recommend free-range organic eggs from Clarence Court)

Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper

1 tbsp olive oil

For the rosemary tomato sauce:

1 tbsp olive oil

2 garlic cloves, crushed

1 onion, halved and thinly sliced

1 fresh red chilli, thinly sliced

1 tsp fresh rosemary, finely chopped

500g ripe vine tomatoes, or mixed tomatoes in different sizes, chopped

1 tbsp tomato paste

Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper

While the meatballs are chilling make the tomato sauce. Place a saucepan over a low heat and add one tablespoon of olive oil, stir in the onions, garlic and rosemary, and simmer for two minutes. Next stir in the chopped tomatoes and tomato paste, season with sea salt and freshly ground black pepper. Turn the heat down to low and leave to simmer for 20 minutes, stirring every 5 minutes. Add a bit of water if it begins to get too dry.

4

Now back to the meatballs. Place a frying pan over a medium heat and pour in one tablespoon of olive oil, add the meatballs and brown on all sides. Then spoon the meatballs into the tomato rosemary sauce and allow to cook for 15 minutes.

Almost every culture has its own version of meatballs!

From Italian polpette to Swedish köttbullar and Middle Eastern kofta

METHOD

1

2

Line the base of an 18cm spring cake tin with greaseproof / parchment paper.

Place the digestive biscuits and 80g hazelnuts in a blender and blend until you get a breadcrumb like consistency. Then pour in the butter and blend for 30 seconds. Spoon the biscuit base into the prepared tin and use the back of a spoon to smooth it flat. Put the tin into the fridge to chill while you make the topping.

3

CHEESECAKE WITH A BUTTERY HAZELNUT BISCUIT BASE LEMONY

SERVES: 8

INGREDIENTS

250g digestive biscuits

140g hazelnuts (80g for the base, 60g for the crumb on top)

100g butter

Fun fact!

Lemons were once so valuable they were given as gifts to kings. Talk about a royal fruit

Whip the cream using a whisk or mixer, once the cream is whipped, add in the sugar, cream cheese, lemon juice and zest and whisk together until you get a light fluffy texture.

4

Remove the baking tin from the fridge and spoon in the lemon mixture. Use the back of a spoon to smooth out the top. Finely chop the remaining 50g hazelnuts and sprinkle around the edge of the top of the cheesecake.

5

300ml double cream

340g cream cheese

Zest of 3 lemons, juice of 2 lemons

150g caster sugar

Place the cheesecake into the fridge for at least 2 hours to set fully. Remove from the fridge 30 minutes before serving.

I like to finish off the cake by decorating it with flowers and another zest of lemon.

Recipes supplied by Clodagh McKenna. For more simple and healthy recipes from Clodagh check out her new book Clodagh’s Happy Cookbook.

Healthy Starts at Home

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NUTRITION MADE EASY EVERYDAY

Nutritionist

Dominique Ludwig

explains why eating well doesn’t need to be overwhelming for busy families and suggests some quick and easy ways to make sure food is both nourishing and delicious.

Eating well matters at every stage of life, but when it comes to family meals, it becomes even more important to choose food that works for everyone around the table. Mealtimes should feel easy, enjoyable and unrushed. They are a chance to come together over food that tastes good, feels satisfying and helps us feel nourished rather than sluggish. When meals are genuinely delicious, they create a sense of calm and connection and make space to share our day.

Balance is something I take very seriously when creating recipes. Our bodies function better when meals contain the right combination of protein, fibre, healthy fats and complex carbohydrates –whether we are feeding growing children, busy adults or supporting health through midlife and beyond. Balanced meals help support energy, concentration, mood and

appetite, and they leave everyone feeling more satisfied and less inclined to snack between meals.

“One of the simplest ways to keep family meals healthy is through easy swaps and add-ins.”

These principles sit at the heart of my new book No-Nonsense Nutrition. The recipes are designed for real households, busy schedules and everyday kitchens. They are meals you can cook after work, serve to the whole family and enjoy together, without needing specialist ingredients or complicated methods. When meals are balanced and nourishing, they naturally support how we feel throughout the day.

Simple swaps

One of the simplest ways to keep family meals healthy is through easy swaps and add-ins. Using everyday ingredients like beans or lentils in soups, stews and salads boosts both protein and fibre. Adding a spoon of Greek yoghurt to breakfast or meals increases fullness, while wellthought-out side dishes help bring in vegetables with ease. All of my recipes are complete meals, with all of the sides included, so everything you need is on the same recipe page. This takes the thinking out of cooking and makes it easier to put balanced, nourishing meals on the table, for busy families every day.

A well-stocked store cupboard also makes healthy eating far easier and allows nourishing meals to come together quickly. Items that make a great starting point include:

Tinned pulses

Chopped tomatoes

Frozen vegetables, including peas, are another practical staple, offering familyfriendly convenience while contributing protein and fibre. When these foods are on hand, balanced meals become the default rather than something that requires extra planning.

Get kids involved

Healthy habits are best embedded early through repetition and involvement, not pressure. Letting children help prepare simple foods or get involved in making family favourites builds confidence in the kitchen and supports a positive relationship with food. There are plenty of healthy treats to enjoy, like my peanut chocolate cookies or chocolate caramel bars, as well as family favourites like my chicken satay skewers or sweet potato frittata.

No-Nonsense Nutrition is about making healthy eating fit into everyday life. These are recipes that work on a Tuesday evening or Sunday lunch, and leave everyone feeling full and nourished, which supports long-term health without removing the fun from the table.

More information about nutritionist Dominique Ludwig, including her new cookbook, NoNonsense Nutrition, can be found by scanning by the QR code.

NOURISHMENT NO-NONSENSE

Feeding a family doesn’t have to be complicated.

Nutritionist Dominique

Ludwig brings us delicious recipes designed to support busy households with food that’s wholesome, practical and full of flavour.

MOZZARELLA, VEGGIE TUNA AND

WRAPS

SERVES: 4

INGREDIENTS

Veggie wraps

1 large carrot, grated (about 100g)

1 courgette, grated (about 150g)

200g hard mozzarella or Cheddar, grated

50g milled flaxseeds

10g chia seeds

30g sesame seeds

2 eggs (Werecommendfree-range organiceggsfromClarenceCourt)

1 teaspoon dried oregano (or other herbs of your choice)

Sea salt

freshly ground black pepper

For the filling:

1 tin of tuna in water or oil, drained (around 160g)

1 stick of celery finely chopped

1 large red pepper finely diced

1 medium carrot finely diced

½ red onion finely diced

1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (check it is gluten-free if needed)

75g Greek yoghurt

1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives

Sea salt freshly ground black pepper

To serve: A handful of watercress (per serving)

METHOD

1

Preheat the oven to 180°C and line a large baking tray, or two smaller trays, with baking parchment.

2

3

Squeeze out the excess water from the carrot and courgette using kitchen paper.

Mix all the wrap ingredients in a large bowl and season well with salt and pepper. Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions and spoon them onto the lined baking tray(s). Flatten each portion with wet hands or use the back of a spoon to form rectangles approximately 20cm x 15cm. Alternatively, roll the mixture between two sheets of baking parchment and transfer to the baking tray(s).

4

Bake in the oven for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and crisp. Allow to cool completely.

5

While the wraps are cooking, prepare the filling. Mix the drained tuna with the vegetables, mustard, Greek yoghurt and chives, and season with salt and pepper.

6

To assemble, place a layer of watercress on each wrap, add the tuna mixture and roll up carefully.

PEANUT COOKIES CHIP CHOCOLATE

These cookies are perfect if you like to keep things simple, with minimal fuss and ingredients. They are free from flour so are naturally gluten- and wheatfree, and if you choose a dairy-free dark chocolate, they can also be vegan.

MAKES: 12 COOKIES

INGREDIENTS

275g good quality crunchy peanut butter

80-100g maple syrup, depending on how sweet you like them

1 teaspoon vanilla extract or paste

A pinch of sea salt

50g dark chocolate chips, above 70% cacao solids if possible (check they don’t contain milk if you want the cookies to be dairy-free)

Did

know?you

It takes approximately 540 peanuts to make one jar of peanut butter

METHOD

1

Preheat the oven to 180°C (fan oven) and line a baking sheet with baking parchment.

2 Put the peanut butter, maple syrup, vanilla and salt into a food processor or a large bowl, and blend until well combined and the mixture forms a dough. Stir through the chocolate chips.

3

Divide the mixture into 12 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball, place them on the lined baking sheet, and flatten slightly with your hand or the back of a fork.

4

Bake for 7-8 minutes, or until just cooked and beginning to colour. You want them to stay soft, so watch the timer and don’t overcook them. Allow them to cool fully, then transfer to a jar.

Storage: Store the cookies in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week.

Recipes from No-Nonsense Nutrition by Dominique Ludwig (published by Bluebird, £26). Find more of Dominique Ludwig’s delicious recipes by scanning the QR code.

Nature Nurture?* or

“My daughter’s immediate bond with the team has been such a joy to watch. She feels safe, celebrated and seen. She often role plays at home, being her favourite teachers - every time bringing a smile to our faces.”

- Bright Horizons Parent

A partnership that puts families first.

Choosing a nursery is a big moment. It’s exciting and a little emotional, that’s why we start by listening. You know your child better than anyone, and we’re here to learn from you.

Together, we share the big wins, talk honestly about the tricky bits, and cheer on every step forward — no matter how small.

Our Bright Beginnings Curriculum is built to help children grow at their own pace. With support from our experienced managers and Early Childhood Specialists, learning is woven into every part of the day — in calm moments of concentration, in messy, joyful play, and in all those in‑between times where curiosity takes over. Children are gently encouraged to try new things, build confidence and grow more independent, day by day.

And because life is busy, many of our nurseries offer extended opening hours, along with all‑inclusive fees which means meals, nappies, wipes and other everyday essentials are taken care of for children aged 3 months to 5 years — one less thing for you to think about.

FROM OUR HOMES TO YOURS

Every child deserves a place to feel safe, seen and cared for – and fostering can make that possible. The Department for Education describes why fostering can help change more than one life for the better.

The decision to foster rarely arrives in a single moment. For most families, it builds gradually, through conversations, quiet reflection and a growing sense that they might have something meaningful to offer a child who needs it.

“Fostering isn’t about being perfect, it’s about being there for children”

For Sharnie and Zak, the decision to foster with East Midlands Councils was years in the makingl a “one day we will” that eventually became a leap. “We just knew we had room in our lives and in our home,” Sharnie recalls. They also wanted their daughter to experience the bonds of sibling relationships,

learning to share, to care and to grow alongside others. Fostering offered that opportunity while making a real difference in their community.

For Fahad, fostering revealed something unexpected. “We’ve experienced feelings we didn’t know we could feel for somebody who is not our child, but has become our child. It reinforces what family really is.” Their home has become a hub in every sense, hosting pizza nights, sleepovers and gatherings for other foster families, building the kind of community that makes fostering sustainable for everyone.

“We have all of this knowledge and skills, why don’t we apply this to fostering?”

“Fostering isn’t about being perfect, it’s about being there for children”

The support from their local fostering hub, training, guidance and fellow carers to lean on, helped them find their footing. “Fostering isn’t about being perfect,” says Zak. “It’s about being there for children.”

“We often describe her as the missing piece of the puzzle within our family”

When Hana and Fahad welcomed a four-year-old girl into their home with the Fostering Shared Services, part of the Foster with West London hub, they didn’t know she would become the heart of their family. Six years on, Hana describes her simply: “She’s the missing piece of the puzzle within our family. She’s completed us.”

Wayne, a full-time teacher and Vicky, a part-time teaching assistant, went to their local hub Foster for Greater Manchester. When Wayne’s sister, a foster carer for two decades, suggested they consider it, the decision felt natural.

“We have all of this knowledge and skills, why don’t we apply this to fostering?” Now short-break carers, they provide weekend and holiday care focused on simple, meaningful moments, from feeding ducks and visiting farms to simply getting outside.

“The children just want time, love and attention,” says Vicky. “Even though they’re with us for a short period, we hope we’ve given them small moments they’ll carry with them.”

To find out more about fostering, including guidance, real-life stories and your local fostering hub, visit the Department for Education website by scanning the QR code.

SAY CHEESE!

How to help your child have a great smile.

Helping our children smile with confidence starts long before the school photos. A simple, consistent oral-care routine at home – backed up by regular dental check-ups – is one of the best gifts we can give them.

NHS guidance recommends that all children see a dentist by their first birthday, routine NHS dental care is free for all children under 18 (or under 19 in full-time education). A quick check-up can spot early problems, but what happens in the bathroom at home, day in, day out, makes the biggest difference.

“Visiting your dentist is a great start, but a thorough cleaning routine should be implemented at home –and if your children see

that you have one, that’s really important because they will learn from you,” says Derbyshire - based dental hygienist Emma Nelson. “The oral hygiene routine you put in place as a family is the best way to limit your child’s chances of tooth pain or discomfort. It’s vital to teach good habits from a young age that will stay with them as they grow up.”

“The oral hygiene routine you put in place as a family is the best way to limit your child’s chances of tooth pain or discomfort.”

Toothache and dental

disease are miserable at any age, but for children they also mean time off school and missed lessons. “However, there are several things parents can do to maximise their child’s oral health and minimise the chance of dental discomfort,” Emma adds.

Emma has developed some top tips for families with DenTek, the oral experts:hygiene

1

Ensure children brush their teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and clean between the teeth once a day. Leave at least 30 minutes after eating acidic foods before brushing to avoid eroding the tooth enamel.

2

3

Keep to a routine –a morning and evening routine is very important.

Start young! Start brushing as soon as milk teeth appear or even before you can see them.

4 Limit sugary snacks and drinks and replace with healthier options.

5

Introduce interdental cleaning when 2 teeth touch between the ages of 2 and 6 years.

6 Make it fun with songs and a star chart for every time your child brushes their teeth for 2 minutes.

Boots, are designed especially for smaller mouths and little hands, helping children get to those tricky in - between spaces while they’re still learning a good technique. The colourful picks are shaped to make flossing easier and more fun, they use an extra - strong wild -fruit-flavoured, fluoride - coated floss to help remove food debris and plaque between teeth –the place cavities love to start.

Used once a day, under adult supervision, flossers can become as normal as brushing.

“If children grow up knowing that brushing and cleaning between their teeth go together, they’re much more likely to keep those habits as teens and adults,” says Emma. By starting early and teaching children how to do a thorough clean – brush plus “clean between” – parents are setting them up with healthy habits that can last a lifetime, helping to keep them comfortable, confident and pain-free through those all-important school years with smiles they’re proud to show off!

Why “cleaning between” matters; a toothbrush can only reach the visible surfaces of each tooth, so adding interdental cleaning is an easy way to upgrade your child’s routine as their teeth come through. This is where child -friendly flossers can really help.

DenTek’s Kids Fun Flossers, available from

MOTHS Magical

Tom Hibbert from The Wildlife Trusts introduces some of the incredible insects that take flight at night.

Photo: Les Binns

Do you have a favourite butterfly? How about a favourite moth? Butterflies and moths are so similar, it can be hard to tell them apart sometimes, but moths don’t always get as much attention. They sometimes have a reputation for being dull and brown, but that’s not true. Many moths are incredibly colourful, others have intricate patterns or impressive camouflage. Read on to discover the best ways to spot some magical moths for yourself.

“There are more than 150 moths in the UK that fly during the day”

than twice as many day-flying moths to

“To see most moths you’ll need to head

loves to visit gardens. You can find it around mint plants and other herbs. Look out for the bright golden spots on its wings.

Hummingbird hawk-moth busy moth hovers in the air as it feeds, using its long tongue to reach into flowers. It can be found anywhere, but often appears close to the coast, as it migrates here from Europe.

Scarlet tiger as well as during the day, especially in the

afternoon. You can sometimes find it resting on plants. It likes riverbanks, fens and other marshy places but will also visit gardens. It’s only found in Wales and the southern half of England.

Six-spot burnet - This glossy black moth has six bright red spots on each of its forewings. It loves flowery grasslands, where its fat green

Hummingbird hawk-moth.

Photo: Derek Moore

Mint moth.

Photo: Vaughn Matthews

Chimney sweeper - This little moth has white tips to its sooty black wings. It flies around in damp, grassy places, especially on sunny days. Sometimes, there can be hundreds of chimney sweepers together in one place.

Take a moth safari

Although you can see plenty of moths in the daytime, to see most moths in their element, you’ll need to head out at night. Grab a torch and explore your garden, or a nearby wild space, and see what magical moths you can spot. Look out for them visiting flowers – especially ones that have a strong scent at night, like honeysuckle. You might notice flower scents you’ve never smelled during the day – act like a moth and follow the smell to the flower!

Bring the moths to you

“There are around 2,500 species of moth in the UK, so there’s always something new to spot!”

One of the best ways to find out which moths live in your area is to use a light to attract them. Many of the night-flying moths are drawn to light. Moths will fly around streetlights or land on well-lit windows. Scientists still don’t fully understand why, but we can use this behaviour to monitor our moths. This helps us keep an eye on their numbers and tell if any of them are becoming rarer. You can give it a go at home, too.

1. Peg your sheet on a washing line (you could also hang it from a branch or anything else that might work).

2. Turn off any nearby lights, like garden lights and house lights.

Canary-shouldered thorn.

Photo: Vaughn Matthews

Chimney sweeper.

Photo: Vaughn Matthews

Elephant hawk-moth.

Photo: Margaret Holland

3. When it’s dark, shine your torch or lamp onto the white sheet so that it lights up nice and bright. It might help if you can balance the torch on something so you don’t have to hold it.

4. Wait patiently to see if any moths arrive, then try to identify your visitors! It often helps to take a photo to identify later, as some moths can be tricky.

It’s best to only try to attract moths every now and then – you shouldn’t do it every night. If moths spend all their time flying around lights, they won’t be able to do other important things like feeding or laying eggs. You can also help at home by changing the way you light up your garden at night. Choose warm coloured bulbs rather than cool ones, direct garden lights down towards the floor and turn them off when you’re not using them.

lights but can also sometimes be disturbed from its resting place in shrubs during the day.

Burnished brass - This moth has a beautiful, brassy metallic shimmer on its wings. It visits flowers at dusk and is attracted to lights later in the night. It’s often found in gardens.

Make a haven for moths

If you want to see more moths, the best thing to do is make your garden as mothfriendly as possible. You can plant a night-time nectar bar, with flowers that night-flying moths love to visit – try sweet rocket, evening primrose and borage. Don’t forget to provide plenty of food for their hungry, hungry caterpillars too! A variety of native woody plants will feed lots of different species.

Learn more about moths and how to help them at wildaboutgardens.org.uk

NIGHT-TIME MOTH SPOTTER

For more on The Wildlife Trusts, visit: wildlifetrusts.org

NIGHT-TIME MOTH SPOTTER

There are around 2,500 species of moth in the UK, so there’s always something new to spot! The moths you see will depend on where you live, what time of year it is and what plants are in the area. Look out for these four fabulous species:

Elephant hawk-moth - This big, bright pink moth is often found in gardens, where its caterpillars like to eat fuchsias and willowherbs. Adult moths can sometimes be found resting on these foodplants during the day. At night, they are often attracted to lights.

Poplar hawk-moth - This is another big moth, easily recognised by its weirdly shaped wings. It also likes to live in parks and gardens and is attracted to lights at night.

Brimstone moth - This is one of the UK’s brightest moths, like a little burst of sunshine. It’s often found in gardens, where it starts flying just before dusk. It is attracted to

Brimstone moth.

Photo: Amy Lewis

Burnished brass.

Photo: Vaughn Matthews

Poplar hawk-moth.

Photo: Vaughn Matthews

“Balancing pregnancy and professional football was uncharted territory for both me and the club”

Lioness and professional footballer at Manchester United, Hannah Blundell, shares her journey from the pitch to motherhood, opening up about the challenges, triumphs and joy of balancing her career and family life.

MWomen at age 19 in 2013. Over the next eight seasons, I experienced some of the most defining moments of my career – lifting 10 trophies including WSL titles, FA Cups, Continental Cups, and the Community Shield. Each one represents years of dedication, sacrifice, setbacks and triumphs. Those years taught me about resilience, teamwork and hard work.

A new life up north

Fast forward to 2021, and I made the move up north to Manchester United Women, where I feel

my life truly started off the pitch. It was a time when my now-husband and I bought a house together, got engaged, and, in June 2024, got married. We’d talked about starting a family, but never put pressure on it, as we both understood my career was a priority. We agreed that if it happened, we’d be over the moon. Not long after the wedding, I noticed my period was late, so I decided to take a

“The club was incredibly supportive, giving me all the help I needed medically, physically and emotionally”

Instagram

@hanblundell

we found out we were expecting our first baby. It truly was the perfect year, as we had also won the FA Cup in May.

Telling the team

Soon after we found out, I let the manager and club doctor know that I was pregnant. The club was incredibly supportive, giving me all the help I needed medically, physically and emotionally. They even discussed setting up my own room at the training ground, so I could bring the baby in if needed. They connected me with a pelvic floor specialist, who gave me the best guidance and support during and after pregnancy. Many people are simply told to do pelvic floor exercises during pregnancy, but thankfully I was assessed by the specialist and discovered that my pelvic floor was already strong; in fact, I needed to learn how to relax it, not strengthen it. I would never have known that without her help.

Playing through pregnancy

Balancing pregnancy and professional football was uncharted territory for both me and the club, but we worked together to make it as smooth as possible. I continued non-contact training until around 33-34 weeks, as I was determined to stay active and close to the game, while maintaining fitness safely. The only negative was being sick every single morning throughout the whole pregnancy – trying to hide it from the team during the first 12 weeks was tricky

“Balancing pregnancy and professional football was uncharted territory for both me and the club”

Becoming a mum

When maternity leave began, I struggled a bit because I was used to having a routine and being active, so going from that to doing very little was tough mentally. But I knew I had to shift my focus from football to preparing for motherhood. In March 2025, we welcomed our beautiful baby girl into the world, and suddenly I had a new perspective on life. Everything I do now is for her.

Throughout my pregnancy, I had hoped for a natural birth, but during labour, I ended up needing a C-section due to complications. Thankfully, both myself and my baby girl were healthy and delivery was a success. I was advised not to do anything for the first six weeks, but the athlete in me thought, “I feel good after three or four weeks – maybe I can do some light exercises.” I asked our strength and conditioning coach and physios for guidance, I quickly realised it was too soon and had to listen to my body.

Patience is key

Being patient with my recovery was something I found difficult, as I’d never been out of sport for this long, but it taught me a lot about patience and resilience –both in recovery and in motherhood. I was over the moon to be a mum, but I also wanted to get back to football as soon

“I love being a mum and I love being a footballer – and being able to combine both is something I’ll treasure forever”

as possible. Once I felt ready, I returned to training with the physios, around two and a half months postpartum. We worked on fitness, strength and general football movements again, and it felt amazing to be back, gaining confidence every day.

Returning to the pitch

I was able to rejoin the team for pre-season in July, which had been my goal, though it came with its challenges. I put a lot of pressure on myself to be fitter and stronger, but I had to keep reminding myself what my body had been through and to be patient. It really helped knowing I had an amazing support system at home. Although I was so happy to be back, it did come with challenges. Both my husband and I are professional footballers, with schedules that often change at short notice. Our families live down south, so they can’t always help last minute, though they do come up most weekends to support us with childcare when they’re not working.

Living both dreams

My journey through pregnancy, postpartum recovery and returning to professional football is something I’m extremely proud of. I just want to show people that it is possible, with the right attitude, commitment, dedication and support. I love being a mum and I love being a footballer –and being able to combine both is something I’ll treasure forever.

Stay up to date with Hannah Blundell’s latest achievements, work and life beyond the pitch by following her on Instagram @hanblundell.

Instagram

@hanblundell

“When it happens, it’s beyond your wildest dreams – something you dream about as a little girl!”

‘Girls need to be able to see themselves in all these different places to realise that they belong’

Professional footballer for England and Chelsea, Lucy Bronze chats to deputy editor Becky Todd about UEFA Euros glory, Champions League success, the challenges female players still face, and why being a role model matters just as much as scoring.

The Lionesses have inspired the nation and changed the game for girls in sport. What was it like to be part of those historic UEFA Cup wins and have such success in the FIFA World Cup?

The first Euros win in Wembley ignited something in the whole country and in us as a team – it made us realise how big the game can be and how many people love and are inspired by it. We know it makes such a huge difference to everybody, especially a lot of little girls. You put all the work in to win, but when it happens, it’s beyond your wildest dreams – something you dream about as a little girl! The first time was so overwhelming because you’ve never done it before and then the second time was so different because you know what it feels like. It almost feels harder and there’s that expectation. Definitely amazing, overwhelming experiences!

What achievement means the most to you personally and why?

Playing for England means the most to me. As well as that, a huge moment in my career was going to France to play for Lyon.

LB:

Instagram: @lucybronze Instagram: @lucybronze

To go to another country, learn the language, integrate into a new team, be successful and bring all that experience back was a huge personal achievement. Winning the Champions League with Lyon in my very first year was a huge career highlight for me.

Women’s football has grown enormously during your career. What are the most positive changes you’ve seen in the game, both on and off the pitch?

LB:

On the pitch: the fans, the crowds and the stadiums we play in. I remember my first game as a senior player for Sunderland when I was 16. The fields were terrible, they didn’t have stands and there weren’t any fans – probably just my mum and some other parents! It was still fun and we enjoyed it and pushed ourselves, but I’d say that’s probably the biggest difference. Then off the pitch, the biggest thing is just being seen as somewhat famous!

Have you ever experienced prejudice in football just because you’re a woman and how did those experiences shape you as a player and a person?

Occasionally, I’ve been in board meetings and the level of treatment is different, which wouldn’t be allowed in any other space at work. That’s definitely shaped me and made me more determined to stand up for myself. Also, because I’m now in a position where people

“It’s so important girls have different people to look up to. There isn’t just one way to be”

Despite progress, what do you think still needs to change in women’s football?

I think it’s in a good place and it’s going in the right direction. There’s a fine balance between wanting to improve the game and having more sponsors and more money, but also making sure that’s invested back into the game: such as resources, training, coaches and physios.

When people see football on TV or they come to the stadium, the expectation is, ‘the stadium’s amazing’, so everything’s perfect behind the scenes. There’s actually a lot of cutting corners in the women’s game that you wouldn’t see as much in men’s and I think that lets women down. We can’t reach our full potential if we don’t have all the resources in place that we need to succeed.

LB:

LB:

Instagram: @lucybronze

do listen, I want to speak up because I’ve been in that position of feeling like I’m not listened to just because I’m a woman.

What can families, schools, fans and communities do to better support girls who want to play football?

I think accessibility is a huge thing. I was part of a Government program to help give funds to a lot of grassroots places to make their facilities more accessible for girls. I can remember growing up getting changed in disabled bathrooms because there were only boys changing rooms. Girls being able to see that they’re welcome in these places makes a difference and helps them to realise that they belong.

How important were role models to you growing up, and how do you feel about being a role model to so many young sportspeople today?

My role model growing up was Kelly Holmes. I was a young age when Kelly won two Gold medals in Athens and it was the first time I had seen a strong athletic woman being successful. I’ve got the image imprinted in my head of when she crossed the line. She had this face of shock because she had done something better than she could have expected, but she also had her arms out and she’s absolutely ripped! I know it wasn’t my sport, but she was someone who I looked at and thought, ‘Wow, I’d love to be like her when I to grow up’. And it’s funny because we’re now friends and she comes to Chelsea games. It’s so nice to just know her as a person, when she was someone I grew up idolising.

I know how important it is to be a role model

for young girls and to be myself, because it’s so important that girls have different people to look up to. There isn’t just one way to be and I think growing up, for me, it felt like women had to fit in a certain box. Whereas nowadays there are so many different types of women who are celebrated.

What’s next for you both on and off the pitch?

On the pitch, I want to keep competing at the highest level, and playing for England is my absolute dream come true, so keep being a part of the team. We obviously have to qualify for the World Cup next year.

Then off the pitch, help making a difference to the game. I’m involved in a lot of boards, so I want to make sure I keep using my voice and educating myself, so when I’m put in the position to make a change and to help, I can.

QUICKFIRE

Q&A

Lucky charm or pre-match ritual? “I always go out last in the warm up, but it’s more just because I’m always herding everybody out!”

Go to comfort food after a big game? “Sushi.”

Favourite place you’ve travelled to with the team? “New Zealand.”

Dream lazy day? “Dog walk and brunch.”

What’s one thing you wish you could tell your younger self? “Just be yourself, the most authentic version of you will always be the best one.”

Stay up to date with Lucy Bronze’s latest achievements, work and life beyond the pitch by following her on Instagram (@lucybronze).

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Instagram: @lucybronze

GAME

ON

Fast-paced, fun and family-friendly, the British American Football Association explains why now is the perfect time for families to give flag football a go.

Looking for a new sport that’s fast-paced, inclusive and bursting with energy? Flag football may be just the thing. While the full-contact version of the sport is what most people know from TV, it’s the fast-growing format of flag football that’s capturing imaginations across playgrounds and parks in the UK.

With no tackling and no pads, it’s safer, lighter and much more accessible – especially for younger players and beginners. And it just might be the perfect way to get your child off the sidelines and into the game. With Olympic status established, growing grassroots opportunities, and a culture built on teamwork and fun, the popularity of the sport is set to go through the roof.

Why try flag football?

If your child loves running, catching and being part of a team, but hasn’t found their fit in traditional school sports, flag football could be the answer. It’s a sport where all shapes, sizes and skillsets are welcome. The emphasis is on agility, speed, teamwork and strategy, making it a brilliant choice for children of all abilities.

Flag football is now played in schools, clubs and communities nationwide. With its

“It’s a sport

recent inclusion as a sport to be featured at the Los Angeles Olympic Games in 2028, there’s never been a more exciting time to get involved.

Physical benefits

Flag football offers all the movement and fitness benefits you’d expect from a dynamic team sport. Sprinting, dodging, jumping, throwing and catching – children are constantly active and engaged. It improves:

Cardiovascular health and stamina

Teamwork and cooperation

Focus and discipline

Self-esteem and sportsmanship

Because every player has a role –and success comes from working together – it creates a strong sense of belonging. It’s a sport where friendships are forged on and off the field, and where children are encouraged to express themselves in a positive and structured environment.

How to get started

The good news? Getting involved in flag football has never been easier. The British American Football Association (BAFA) runs national competitions – supporting clubs nationwide in developing players. BAFA also works with schools and volunteers to ensure young players can access the sport at every level.

Photo: Andy Keith

“Because it’s a game played in short bursts, it suits children with varied energy levels and attention spans”

HERE’S HOW TO BEGIN:

Find a local team or session: visit the BAFA website and click on the club finder to search by region and discover flag football opportunities near you.

Try a taster session: many clubs offer free or low-cost introductions, ideal for seeing if it’s the right fit.

No kit needed: most youth flag sessions require little more than trainers, activewear and a smile!

Open to all: boys and girls play together in mixed teams, with inclusive pathways for players of all backgrounds and abilities.

Top tip from the team

Kellie Barrett, head coach of Great Britain’s Flag Football Youth programme, says: “Flag offers a tremendous opportunity to not only develop the skills and talents of our young people but also to grow the sport across the nation. My advice is don’t be afraid to give it a go. It’s exciting, fast and everyone has a chance to shine. I fell in love with the game as a sixyear-old, now I’ve travelled the world with the national team!”

For the most talented young flag football athletes, BAFA has established an elite player pathway through the Diploma in Sporting Excellence (DiSE). This is a two-year programme designed to support young athletes (16-19 years old) in developing their skills and knowledge for high-performance sports. It is delivered at Loughborough College alongside the NFL Academy.

So, whether your child dreams of competing at the Olympics or simply wants to try something new after school, British American Football offers a world of opportunity – and fun.

The British American Football Association (BAFA) is the National Governing Body for the sport of American football in Great Britain. Find out more and get involved by scanning the QR code.

The Northern Isles offer stunning views, unique heritage, breath-taking coastlines, fantastic wildlife, delicious local produce, and so much more! Your Orkney and Shetland holiday begins as you set sail with NorthLink Ferries.

The comfortable and reliable service offers sailings from Aberdeen to Lerwick, Shetland, with regular calls into Orkney’s capital of Kirkwall. Alternatively travel to Orkney’s port of Stromness from Caithness. This 90 minute journey on MV Hamnavoe is the only sailing to Orkney which passes the iconic sea stack, the Old Man of Hoy.

Operated by

Shetland Orkney

Bluebell Railway Bluebell Railway

CHILDREN TRAVEL FOR JUST £1.00 IN HALF TERM AND SELECT WEEKEND.WITH ANY FAIR PAYING ADULT. WHY NOT JOINING THE STEPNEY CLUB FOR YOUNG ADVENTURERS OUR CLUB FOR CHILDREN UNDER 9 YEARS.

The Bluebell Railway promises an exhilarating journey this summer, combining history, excitement, and affordability. Don’t miss the opportunity to create lasting memories with your families and friends, it's the ultimate destination for fun and discovery! Embark on an exhilarating adventure, where excitement awaits everyone! Dive into imagination with captivating Reptiles, Medieval with Birds of Prey and for 2026 we have our exciting Bluebell on Parade Gala. We have Events for everyone this summer so make sure you keep an eye out on our website.