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Photo: Wendy Copley / Flickr

Whether it is your child’s lunchbox or your work lunch you’re packing you need to include energy giving foods. Is it better to pack one big sandwich or a couple of little snacks and treats? Often the last thing you feel like doing in the evening is making lunch for the next day so next time you are at the supermarket be sure to pick up some easy, ready-to-go lunchtime snacks that are not only nutritious but are also delicious. (more…)

Photo: srsphoto / Flickr

Kids’ shoes are often bought without the child actually there to tell you if they are comfortable or not. Children outgrow shoes at a rapid rate and buying expensive shoes every six months can really make a dent in your bank balance. Make sure you’re buying the right shoes for your children without forking out tons of cash. (more…)

Photo: plounsbury / Flickr

There are many advantages to growing up with animals but buying a pet to teach a child about responsibility shouldn’t be the main reason for buying one. For example, children forget to feed their hamsters every day unless they are reminded by their parents. On the other hand, parents aren’t too keen on their toddlers picking up messes off the lawn. When choosing a pet, it’s important to consider the child’s age and temperament. Responsibility should be the main aim. (more…)

Photo: amber simmons / Flickr

It becomes quite a thought process when decisions need to be made about the purchasing of home appliances and re-arranging space to suit. The decision becomes even more complicated when we have to think kid-friendly, as they also need to be considered in the day to day running of the household. (more…)

Photo: antiguadailyphoto.com / Flickr

Do you think you know everything there is to know about your little one? Have you read every single parenting book on the market and think there is nothing left to learn? Parenting can be an uphill battle and one thing is for sure – just when you think you have it all figured out, your child can prove you wrong. On a lighter note, here are some facts that will lend some comfort in what can be a time of great doubt. (more…)

Photo: cproppe / Flickr

If your little ones turn their noses up at broccoli and flee in horror at the mention of spinach you have to get creative when it comes to making sure they eat healthily. You may be surprised by some of the strategies that work – you’re not limited to sneaking vegetables into pasta sauce and blending. Getting kids involved in gardening, letting them eat raw vegetables like carrots with dip for a snack and adding sauces to broccoli and spinach can make all the difference. (more…)

Photo: makelessnoise / Flickr

Many of us hate the idea of going to the dentist or doctor so it is only understandable that children should feel the same. Many children are terrified of going to the health clinic and cringe at the possibility of getting an injection or having their teeth pulled out. As it’s vital that children see the dentist and doctor, it makes sense to help them get over their fears as early as possible. (more…)

Photo: familymwr / Flickr

Parents want the best for their children and an important part of their growth is learning to look after themselves. This of course, does not happen overnight and the gradual steps to gaining full independence take years. How soon do we start teaching our children to do things for themselves? How much is too much and how do you start? It is up to each parent to find a balance between protecting their child and letting them do things for themselves. (more…)

Photo: G. J. Charlet III / Flickr

When it comes to speaking, all babies are unique and will each learn at their own pace. Although you cannot force your baby to speak, there are things you can do to speed up the process. Hearing your child trying to express themselves by cooing and gurgling shows that they are well on their way to learning a word or two and you should encourage them as part of your bonding experience. (more…)

Photo: ktgeek / Flickr

Children who play outdoors are healthier than those who do not. Today’s children spend 90 per cent of their lives indoors and 23 per cent don’t take part in any physical activity, researchers at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention say. Not getting enough exercise is directly linked to growing rates of diabetes and obesity in children. Littlewoods, the UK’s biggest online retailer, is helping tackle the problem with a new range of outdoor toys designed to get children moving this summer. (more…)