Family | Life | Food | Travel

07 August 2025

Supporting Children Through Family Transitions: Practical Guidance for Parents

Family separation or divorce is rarely easy, especially when children are involved. Parents often worry about how to approach the topic in a way that keeps children informed without overwhelming them. Although emotions can run high, how these changes are communicated makes a lasting difference. Children are perceptive and often notice subtle shifts in their family dynamic. While the situation may be complex, offering them reassurance and structure through clear communication helps them feel secure and supported.





The Importance of Clear Communication in Changing Times

When families go through transitions like divorce or separation, honest and timely conversations help reduce a child's sense of fear or confusion. Children may not always voice their concerns, but they often pick up on tension or changes in routine. Without age-appropriate information, they may fill in the gaps with their own assumptions, which can lead to anxiety or misplaced guilt.

It’s common for parents to worry about sharing too much too soon, but withholding information often backfires. With some preparation, parents can deliver key messages in a calm and supportive way. Planning what to say, using language suited to the child's age, and providing space for questions creates an environment where children feel included and safe.

Parents who are unsure how to approach these conversations may find reassurance and advice from family law experts in Slough, who offer guidance that considers legal realities and emotional wellbeing.
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13 February 2019

5 Safe Valentine's Day Activities for Expectant Mothers

For couples in the first throes of romance, Valentine's day often means romantic treats, dinner dates and the giving of very personal gifts. However, for couples expecting a baby, St Valentine's day is perhaps written off as something that is for the young and free. However, these five Valentine's Day activity ideas prove that romance can blossom during a pregnancy when the day arrives. 




1. A Maternity Photo-Shoot
Most young couples will wait until their little bundle of joy arrives before thinking about taking some quality photographs, but a pregnancy is part of the journey towards parenthood, and it should be savoured. A romantic way to share a pregnancy with your partner this Valentine's Day is with a maternity photo-shoot. Professional photographers often offer special packages for expectant couples, which sometimes include themed clothing and various backdrops - for a selection of photos that will capture this magical time in your life forever. 
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02 June 2015

4 Mini Wins of Parenthood


With parenthood comes highs and lows, that's all part of the package. But even when your day doesn't go to plan with a 4am start, explosive nappies, toddler tantrums in Tesco and your home being redecorated with baby food, there are (nearly) always things to celebrate. 

These are a few mini wins you may experience as a mum or dad. It's all about being positive.




Your keys are nowhere to be seen. They aren't in your bag among the wet wipes and overflowing Tupperware pots of snacks, they aren't hanging in the hallway above your child's latest wallpaper doodles and they aren't in the door where you vaguely remember leaving them. A feeling of panic overcomes you and after ensuring they haven't been posted out through the letterbox you head to the bathroom to peer around the door. Surprisingly they aren't in the toilet or floating in a bubble filled sink with Barbies so you don't need to go fishing! You eventually discover them deep in the depths of the toy box, after activating every musical item possible in the process, which makes you incredibly late to leave but you are filled with joy that they aren't dripping wet in pee and poop and in need of some anti-bac spray. You can moonwalk your way to the car while fist pumping.

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WIN a Voucher for Swimshop




Summer is fast approaching and whether you’re thinking about your holidays or a bit of splashing around in the garden, we could all do with some new swimwear! From costumes to goggles and toys to everything in between, you’re sure to find anything you need with Swimshop.

We have a voucher up for grabs to celebrate the sunshine!





For your chance to win a £25 voucher for Swimshop you can enter via the Gleam entry form below.
The giveaway ends at 11.59pm GMT on 7th July 2015.
Leaving a comment is mandatory but there are additional entry methods available also.

Good luck!

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01 June 2015

Mini Makes - Pineapple Turnover Cake

The Mr quite often purchases tins of fruit to take to work along with his salads, and this can result in an overflowing supply of mango, peaches, pears and pineapples in the cupboards. I decided to use up a few by whisking up a basic turnover cake this morning which not only provides a little more room on the shelves but also a delicious, and slightly retro, dessert.

Adding fruit to puddings makes it healthy, right? That's what I like to tell myself anyway!


Pineapple Turnover Cake Recipe





You will need
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20 May 2015

McBusted Announce Forestry Commission Concert (PLUS Your Chance To Win)


McBusted have announced a West Country date as part of Forest Live, organised by the Forestry Commission, where acts perform in spectacular woodland locations around the country. The band will be the sixth and final headline act to appear at Westonbirt Arboretum this summer. 

Have you got your tickets yet?




McBusted formed in 2013 when Tom Fletcher, Danny Jones, Dougie Poynter and Harry Judd from McFly joining forces with James Bourne and Matt Willis from Busted. Together Busted and McFly have sold over 15 million records worldwide and chalked up 14 number ones, 20 top 3 singles and 27 top ten singles. The popularity of the new supergroup was reflected in them playing the UK’s largest arena tour of 2014, to a staggering 350,000 people across 35 sold out shows culminating with headlining in London’s Hyde Park. Their unique Forest Live date at Westonbirt will see the band perform a powerhouse of hits such as: ‘Five Colours In Her Hair’, ‘Obviously’, ‘All About You’, ‘What I Go To School For’, ‘You Said No’ and ‘Crashed the Wedding’.


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18 May 2015

Mini Makes - Granola Breakfast Bites

We baked Chocolate and Granola Muffins just the other day and this week we decided to make some granola cereal bars which are great as an alternative to a sit down breakfast. Mornings can be busy and sometimes we need to eat on the go for convenience so these are ideal. They are really easy to make too which is always a bonus - I like to spend as little time as possible in the kitchen and as much time with my feet up!




You will need
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13 May 2015

Family Fun at Greenwood Forest Park

Named the best family attraction in North Wales for the past 4 years, GreenWood Forest Park caught our eye while travelling around Snowdonia during April. Entry for the four of us would have been just under £40 so for a day of entertainment that's really good value. The setting is very natural and relaxing and dogs are welcome on site too which is certainly a bonus when on holiday with pets.




Aimed more so at younger children, the attraction has a combination of indoor and outdoor play areas plus some furry and feathered friends to see too. It really is a place of adventure, fun and confidence building with the challenges to get involved with. We began our day by going on the Green Dragon Coaster which is a people powered ride, the only world's only, where you can email the snap shot to yourself to print at home for just £1.50 at the end. I thought this was such a great idea!



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12 May 2015

Hot Wheels Super Speed Blastway Review

Jamster has always loved playing with cars and over the years he has built up a vast collection of Hot Wheels tracks and diecast vehicles. The latest set to be added to the toy box is the Super Speed Blastway which at only £22.99 is quite an affordable toy to purchase.

There are two launch bays where cars can be loaded and when the triggers are pressed they zoom around the track which activates the pit crew pegs to pop up into the air. The idea is to be the first person to release them all above the grandstand and raise the finish flag - it's seriously fast moving and great for competitive play! Some skill is required but generally anyone can have a go. The way the trigger is pressed can alter the speed that the car travels at slightly so you need to get it just right to go round the loop successfully. I think that just adds to the enjoyment.



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Craft Subscription Packs From toucanBox (PLUS Your Chance To Win)


Do you ever have the urge to get crafty with your children, but don’t know where to start when it comes to getting materials? It’s difficult to remember to save every gloopy lolly stick, especially when you’re out and about.

If this sounds like you, then toucanBox is the answer! 

They make craft boxes for 3 - 8 year old children which are filled with everything required to ignite their creativity and transport them to another world. Each box contains a unique project to complete with the support of an adult... although if you’re anything like me, you’ll enjoy it just as much as your little one.




We are giving you the chance to win a 3 MONTH SUBSCRIPTION to the TWO CRAFT Grande box.

This contains:
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08 May 2015

30 Wishes

Just a few days ago I joined club 30. I waved goodbye to my twenties and celebrated my birthday with family and friends over a delicious Indian meal with just one or two (bottles of) alcoholic beverages. I'd been dreading it to be honest, it felt as though my youth was coming to a bitter end and I was about to burst with grey hair and wrinkles (getting older is daunting for everyone, right?) but I decided to do something positive to mark my special day with Balloon Time instead.




Balloon Time kits are a convenient way to fill balloons at home in preparation for any celebration. They can easily transform a room and make it far more festive whether it's for a wedding day, christening or baby shower - whatever you like, and if you are a little adventurous you could create some bouquets or centre pieces for the table. You can even give them away to guests as favours at the end of the event which the children in particular will appreciate too. 

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07 May 2015

WIN a Spa Day For Two!

Win a Ragdale Experience Day for two people at award winning Ragdale Hall Health Hydro and Thermal Spa (worth £180 – valid Monday to Friday)




Ragdale Hall, located in the rolling Leicestershire countryside, combines state-of-the-art facilities with the charm of traditional Victorian architecture to create one of the most luxurious and relaxing health spas in the country. Wheather you are looking for total relaxation, me-time and pampering or to kick-start a healthier lifestyle, Ragdale Hall is the perfect choice. Our great selection of spa days and breaks include something for everyone.


You and a friend could spend a relaxing day (valid Monday – Friday) at Ragdale Hall in Leicestershire on a Ragdale Experience Day to include:
  • Light lunch in the Verandah Bar.
  • Plus use of all of Ragdale’s facilities including the multi-million pound Thermal Spa featuring candle pool, indoor/outdoor waterfall and a series of heat and water experiences plus two further pools, including whirlpool bath and cascade
  • Gym, exercise classes and outdoor facilities.
NB 10.30am arrival - 6.30pm departure.




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Chicken Hotpot for VE Day

The Ministry of Agriculture & Food created the fun character, Potato Pete, to encourage a healthy lifestyle during the war. Many people grew their own food inspired by the 'Dig For Victory' campaign and at one point there were as many as 1.4 million allotments within the UK. That's quite something! 

Potatoes became a staple ingredient, and it's no surprise as they not only provide a lot of energy but plenty of Vitamin C, B1, B6, Folate, Iron, Magnesium and Potassium. The government released some recipes to inspire families in the kitchen and to help them to provide healthy yet delicious meals. 

It's argued that the diets during the war were some of the healthiest the nation has seen so it might be worth trying some retro recipes at home today.





The Potato Council has given a modern makeover to several wartime classics to mark the 70th anniversary of VE Day (8th May 2015) and I too have created my own recipe. Although traditional hotpots often contained beef shin or sausages this is a delicious chicken alternative.

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04 May 2015

Pampers Celebrates #everybaby

On the same day that the nation celebrates one special birth, Pampers partners with award 
winning director to celebrate #everybaby

Baby Phoenix


If I wasn't broody already I certainly would be now! With the recent arrival of Charlotte Elizabeth Diana, daughter to the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge and sister to George, it has made me long for another child even more so. My own bundle of joy that is equally as precious as royalty, just as Pampers know.

Every beautiful baby is a prince of princess to their parents, and with 2,000 babies born every day in the UK, each deserve the same joyous celebrations to mark their birthday! At a time of national celebration around one special birth, Pampers wants to celebrate #everybaby born into a world of love, sleep & play in a new captivating film directed by award winning documentary maker, Elizabeth Stopford.


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Mini Makes #8 - Chocolate and Granola Muffins

I had two bags of granola hiding away in the cupboard fast approaching their expiry dates, and a packet of chocolate, so I decided to use them up while baking over the bank holiday weekend. The Mini Mes were happy to get involved while it was raining outside so we ended up with an activity to keep us occupied and some treats to eat at the end - win win!







You will need
(Makes approx 12)
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30 April 2015

Would You Purchase Adult Games For Your Children?



I'm quite strict when it comes to the apps and games the Mini Mes play. I get a notification every time they download something to their Kindle Fire HDs but they know to ask beforehand and I have a thorough look at exactly what it is they wish to play. I don't want them to be subjected to anything inappropriate, mainly to prevent nightmares at their age, and it can be hard for a child to distinguish the difference between reality and the virtual world at times, especially when graphics today are far more advanced than when I was a child. You can never be certain of the long term effects adult themed games can have on young minds either so I'd rather be safe than sorry.

My Voucher Codes recently sent me a survey on gaming habits, as part of their research into how social media and technology impacts our lives, and the results were quite shocking to read in Digital Connect Magazine. As many as 30% of UK parents purchase adult games for their children, with 35% not even playing them beforehand to see if they are suitable. These games often include violence, drugs and sex similar to the games listed below and I would definitely not let the Mini Mes watch or play things that are aimed at those aged 18 and over - however much they may protest in the future. 


Age restrictions are in place for a valid reason, surely?
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29 April 2015

Our New Arrivals

As you may have seen on Instagram, we collected a beautiful Border Collie just before Christmas to join our little family. We have Spartan already, the same breed that we bought as a puppy, and we had hoped a companion would've been lovely for him. Unfortunately however Spartan wasn't fond of the playful ball of fluff and he became very withdrawn, refusing food after just a few days, and therefore we had to say farewell to the new poochie much to everyone's disappointment. It was certainly for the best as although we were sad to see him go Spartan was here first and it was unkind to leave him so miserable. His happiness had to be priority as responsible dog owners and although it was difficult the Mini Mes did understand.

As the weeks went by I thought more and more about getting a different pet to fill that empty space in our hearts and after our trip to the Welsh Mountain Zoo at Easter it was obvious how much the Mini Mes adore rabbits. The decision was made.

 I ordered a hutch and set it up secretly one evening (please remind me how bad I am at flat-pack if I purchase furniture in the future) and a few days later I collected not one but two new bunnies from the local pet shop within the garden centre.

The excitement was a little overwhelming for Minxy who shed a tear and hugged me so tightly I felt I  may pop and Jamster was thrilled too, his huge grin was proof of that. They have been taking great care of them and they are always the first thing they mention when waking up and going to the last before they go to bed.

So let me introduce, Stampy, Bobby and their accommodation which is currently situated on our patio.


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28 April 2015

New Shoes



Ensuring the Mini Mes have properly fitted footwear is really important when it comes to their growth and development as wearing incorrect shoes can cause no end of issues for tiny toes. We generally have our feet measured at Brantano every 3 months as advised, and have done for several years, but it's always lovely to be invited to a store to review their service and receive new shoes in the process, which we were asked to do recently.

Upon arrival we were greeted by staff and shown to the fitting area. There is a table of WOW Toys to keep little ones entertained and also a large variety of stationery, bags, umbrellas and other accessories to browse while waiting. The wait wasn't long however and within minutes the Mini Mes had taken off their existing Nike footwear and were stood on the iPad foot gauge to have their feet sized. The device used was from Clarks and with whole and half size measurements and four different widths it really helps to ensure the perfect fit. It's interactive (they can pick a character, insert their name and age) which means children can really get involved with the entire experience.




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Toast Your Way To The Top with Breville (PLUS Your Chance To Win)

As one of Britain’s favourite breakfast choices, with millions of slices consumed daily, a perfectly toasted slice of bread is the Holy Grail for many… Introducing the NEW ‘Breville 2 & 4 Slice Toaster – The Perfect Fit for Warburtons®’, which promises to toast loaves from Britain’s number one bread brand completely to the top, and just the way you like it!

The UK’s leading kitchen appliance brand, Breville, has collaborated with the number one bakery brand in the UK, Warburtons, to launch the first toaster of its kind that is ‘the perfect fit for Warburtons® ‘Toastie’ bread’.  The Warburtons ‘Toastie’ loaf is the UK’s best-selling branded loaf, with millions of consumers selecting it as their preferred bread of choice. And a great loaf of bread deserves a great toaster, one that can truly toast to the top and deliver perfectly golden brown slices for the breakfast of champions.




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27 April 2015

What Makes the Perfect Changing Bag - Cooper & Hill NEED You

Wouldn't it be lovely if a company actually listened to parents and created a changing bag based on their feedback? The lovely team over at Cooper & Hill have decided to do just that and therefore we need your opinions today! After all, it's the mums and dads that are the real experts when it comes to travelling with little ones and this is a company that recognises that fact and wants to combine style with functionality.

We will be collating all of your thoughts over the next few days and at the end of the week Cooper & Hill will be analysing the results before sending off the final plan to the manufacturer - how exciting knowing that you can be a part of the process!

They would appreciate your opinions on colour, design and just about anything else you may wish to mention when it comes to making the perfect bag so please do take a look at the three options they have come up with, use the poll to share your preferences and leave any additional comments below. 


Option 1


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