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Mamma Fairy

Fairy Travels

Dream Holiday Destinations To Book

Do you sit and think about your dream holiday and imagine all the fun places that you can go to? Better yet, what if you were able to take the steps to start booking a dream vacation and preparing for your next trip? When it comes to taking the first step in planning, you’ll need to put a focus and emphasis on an area of the world that you’re excited and ready to travel to.

Dream Holiday Destinations To Book

While travel may be off the agenda in the short term however it does not stop us dreaming and planning our next adventures. This begs the question…Where in the world do you really want to go? Ill start! Top of my bucket-list for a very long time was Lapland closely followed by Iceland. Having been fortunate enough to have visited both pre Covid. I have spent the last few weeks dreaming of where next and top for our family list is Barbados and Jordan, vastly different but intriguing countries and some might say not an immediate first choice for family travel.

Barbados

barbados

Pic Credit: Pixabay

If you’re looking for a place that offers sunshine, beauty, and stunning landscapes and views that go on for miles, your attention should turn to discover the beauty of Barbados.

The clear waters, the green hills, the trails, and forests that you can walk on and through for miles…there really are very few places in the world that can take your breath away in the way that Barbados can.

And if you’re still having trouble picturing your toes in the sand on the beaches of Barbados, imagine sitting on the shore and taking in the sunsets and sunrises as well. The beauty that awaits you in Barbados is worth you diving in and researching more because it’s unlike any other place in the world.

Barbados wasn’t on my radar until recently when I happened upon a blog post about a new Aer Lingus route via Manchester direct to Barbados from July 2021. I get so excited when I read about new routes so had to have a nosey. My key thing always is, how family friendly a place might be, so off I went to find out just how family friendly it might be.  The Visit Barbados website has a wealth of information on its family friendly activities from submarines to safaris!

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Home & Interiors

Benefits of Investing in a Safe Garden for Kids

swing

Perfect for sports mad families – kick an swing set from Wickey.ie

There are so many benefits of investing in a safe garden for kids. When kids feel as though they have a space outside that they can roam and play, they’ll be more inclined to turn off the screens and head out the door.

If you’re ready to give the kids an active area that they can run and play and have fun, why not create a safe garden space for them to be able to release their energy while enjoying spending time outdoors?

Benefits of Investing in a Safe Garden for Kids

Not all of these simple ideas may work for your space but they’re good ones to consider and see if they’re possible. If anything, they just might give you a good idea of other ways to incorporate safety and fun.

  • Your children will grow in confidence

climbing frame

How fabulous is this swing and slide set from Wickey.ie

So many times kids tend to shy away from doing things because they don’t know if they’re safe to use. If you take the steps to create a safe and fun area, the kids will be more than happy to run right out that door.

  • Safe climbing frames will help with focus and athleticism

Climbing frames and structures such as those pictures opposite from Wickey are a great addition to any outdoor space! As long as you follow the safety precautions in getting it set up, the kids will be able to climb around worry-free and have a blast.

Climbing frames are created to challenge them but also make them feel confident and proud as well. They’ll be so excited to show you just how fast they can climb around and you’ll be happy to know that they’re safe!

  • Swing sets for younger explorers 

One of the most used pieces in our back garden is without doubt the is swing and slide set. Which we have loved about this is that is really does grow with your child.  It took mine time to get the confidence to go up the ladder and down the slide unaided when they were younger but now 3 years later they are loving it. Even the 8 year old can wile away hours out the back.

  • Safety measures mean no surprise accidents or tears

If you’re able to create a safe garden space, the kids will be able to run about and have fun without the worry of accidents happening frequently. If you are stuck for ideas here is some inspiration for easy outdoor learning activities. This doesn’t mean that they won’t but this does mean that safety features can help eliminate some of that worry.

These simple tips for creating a safe space in the garden area for kids really do work and are worth trying. The more that you can give them and yourself peace of mind, the better!

What other benefits of investing in a safe garden for kids can you think of? 

Note: This is a collaborative post
Mamma Musings

Looking Fab Wherever You Go

If you love to travel, then compromise is no new concept to you. Wherever you go, you know you’re not going to have all the comforts of home. However, many women take this to mean that they have to leave all their beauty tools behind them. Here, we’re going to look at a few must-haves that can keep you looking fab as you go globe-trotting.

Get items that multitask

This is essential. When it comes to skincare and hair care, you are not going to be able to pack every single item that makes up your usual routine. Instead, you need to look at multitasking skin products . They help you save on lots of space and, even though they may not be quite as potent as different specialized products, they help stay on top of your routine care so that everything doesn’t have to fall at the wayside all at once. One of the changes I have made in recent years has been the switch to natural products, inspired by Amanda Jo, Organic Bunny

Your little touches

Make-up can be tricky to take overseas. Not all of your products are going to be allowed on the plane and, even if they were, you don’t want them to take up too much space. Luckily, there are plenty of travel makeup kits and products that are space-saving and budget-friendly. To make sure that you’re always able to find what you need, you should invest in a travel makeup bag, too. These little bags help you confine your make-up to a smaller area so they’re much less likely to get lost in transit and to clutter up all your things.

Care for your hair

If you’ve been to enough hotels, then you know just how dire their hairdryers can be. They will work most of the time, but they are terribly inefficient. If you have long or curly hair, it can take forever to dry it, which will simply discourage you from washing your hair too thoroughly. Instead, it pays to find a mini hair dryer that isn’t going to take up a lot of space but will still provide enough power to get the job done. Especially under the heat and humidity of certain locations around the world, it’s important to give your hair the care that it deserves.

Prepare for the long-haul

Of course, you’re not always going to have the time to look your very best. Doing your make-up and hair on a long-haul flight isn’t always the easiest of things. So, it’s good to have a few little accessories that can help you look glamorous and keep yourself covert when you’re not looking ready for the world. A scarf and a pair of sunglasses in your on-flight luggage can help you easily cover up when you don’t want to be seen. There’s nothing wrong with wanting a little more control over how the world sees you.

You don’t have to sacrifice your beauty and self-confidence to go exploring the world. Make sure you stock up on the travel-friendly items that are going to have you looking and feeling great regardless of where you are.

Note: This is a collaborative post
Features

Gaslighting Examples: 6 Things Emotional Abusers Will Say

Gaslighting is the act of saying things that are untrue or manipulative to make someone else feel as if they don’t remember something right or become confused. This is a type of emotional abuse aimed at lowering the self-esteem of the victim and is often used in narcissistic relationships to alter the power balance between partners, trapping the victim in the relationship. It can happen in just about any type of relationship, not just romantic ones. 

It Never Happened

lady in bed

Pic Credit: Pixabay

The number one phrase people will use when gaslighting a victim is that “it never happened.” This is done to make the victim confused and feel as if they don’t have a good memory or are remembering something wrong. Often, the victim remembers every detail of what happened, but it puts the abuser in a poor light, so the abuser wants to change history by saying it never happened. Those who notice gaslighting like this may want to look into emotional abuse support as soon as possible. 

You’re Too Sensitive

Feelings are valid, no matter who has them or what feelings they have. It’s okay to be upset at something that happens. Yet, abusers will often tell their victim that they’re too sensitive. This is a way of minimizing the victim’s feelings, making the abuser the one in control of the situation. It’s not that the victim’s feelings aren’t valid or that they’re too sensitive, it’s that the abuser cannot feel the feelings and doesn’t want the victim to, either. 

You’re Crazy

No one wants to be told they’re crazy. When someone is a victim of emotional abuse, it’s easy to feel a little bit crazy, especially when faced with frequent gaslighting and manipulation. The abuser often adds to this by telling the victim they’re crazy. This often goes along with phrases like “it never happened” or “you’re too emotional” as the abuser wants to further invalidate the victim’s feelings. 

You Should Have Known

Abusers who become physically abusive will often use this phrase when they’re trying to make the victim feel like they’re the reason for the physical abuse. The abuser will try to blame the victim, saying that the victim should have known the abuser would be unhappy. Basically, the victim shouldn’t have done what they did to cause the abuser to act out. The thing is, however, it’s hard to impossible for victims to always know what will set off the abuser, so they often will not have known that it would lead to further abuse. 

False Apologies

False apologies are used all the time. Most people recognize fake apologies that turn the apology around onto the other person. These false apologies are common in abusive relationships and are a form of gaslighting. Though the abuser does say they’re sorry, it’s almost always followed by “but…” This is where they turn it around and blame the victim instead of actually apologizing for their behavior. 

Your Memory is Bad

Like saying something never happened, abusers will tell victims that their memory is bad. The main idea behind this is to cause confusion and make the victim feel like they’re forgetful. Instead, the likely reason this happens is that the abuser is trying to change history or have more control over the victim. 

If you are worried that you’re being gaslighted, it’s time to take a closer look at the relationship. A healthy relationship won’t include gaslighting or manipulation. Talk to a professional to get a better insight into what’s happening and to get help leaving the relationship. 

Features

Snack Condiments for Your Spicy Cravings

Snacking is essential for any diet.  Not only does it give you the calories you need to push through your day, but they also keep you from overloading your plate during your meals.  The capsaicin found in most spicy food takes this a step further by shrinking your stomach a little and making you feel fuller faster.  Unfortunately, pouring a little Texas Pete on everything you eat is going to get old fast.

hot sauce gift setsInstead of reaching for the old and familiar, here are some other fun and spicy condiments you can pair with almost every snack out there! And if any of my family are reading this, I would love some hot sauce gift sets this Christmas!! 

Habanero Pepper Jelly

Why not have a little sweet with your spice?  Habanero pepper jelly is an incredible way to fill all of your cravings at once.  When served on a bagel, a burger, or even just crackers, this jelly packs some heat that will wake you up for the rest of the day!  You can make it a savory snack by having it on a cheesy bun or a sweet snack on top of some toast with honey, but any way you have it will make a fantastic snack.

Chipotle Aioli

dips

Pic credit: Pixabay

Many refer to aioli as a dressed-up mayonnaise, and they’re not far from the truth!  Made by combining eggs, oil, and water- this sauce is fantastic on anything from burgers to fries.  It’s usually creamy on its own, but there’s no reason to let it stay that way.  Chipotle seasoning, powdered red jalapenos can be added to aioli while being whisked to create a beautiful and dangerously pink concoction.  For best results, you should let the aioli sit overnight in the fridge, which will allow the flavors to mingle truly.

Chili Garlic Sauce

From the same family of sauces as sriracha and gochujang, chili garlic sauce is a thick sauce that offers many flavors.  You can often find it fermented in sleek small jars that look radioactive because of how red they are.  This color is a clear warning to let you know about the heat inside!  Not only is this sauce incredibly spicy and ready to kick any cravings eating at you, but it’s also just a little bit sweet, with a deep savory flavor to back it as well.  This complex mixture may be a lot if you’re not prepared for it: but it’s one of the most delicious things you could eat.

Harissa

This Tunisian condiment is relatively unknown next to the other spicy sauces on this list, but it’s quickly becoming a cult classic.  Made from a mix of extremely spicy roasted peppers, garlic, coriander seed, saffron, and other spices, this sauce can range from being served thin- or as a thick paste you can squeeze from a tube.  Regardless of how dense you like it, it packs a punch in the spice department.  Although it’s often used as a cooking ingredient for fish and meat dishes, it’s also just as delicious next to a plate of fries or a bowl of chips!  Just be sure not to eat it too quickly; the spice sneaks up on you!

 

Note: This is a collaborative post
Features

3 Reasons to Use Solar Energy to Power Our Home

There are several ways that we can power our home. The differences lie in how much they cost and how good they are for the environment. There is no doubt that using up fossil fuels is the least environmentally friendly option because they are not going to be able to be replaced. Wind farms have to be built on land and in the sea for them to contribute to the renewable energy sources, whereas solar panels, such as those installed by Tampa solar, can be more discretely housed on roofs. Individually, they can reduce electricity bills for a householder or business, and collectively, they can reduce everyone’s carbon footprint. We owe it to our grandchildren to consider the environment. It is a bonus that we can save money while doing it.

Environment

graphic on energy rating

Pic Credit: Pixabay

By using solar energy you are not producing any greenhouse gases that contribute to global warming. Your solar panels are merely gathering energy from the sun and then converting it into electricity to power your home. This includes powering it in terms of heating and running gadgets such as computers and televisions. It has been suggested that using solar energy can reduce your home’s carbon footprint by up to 80 percent per year. This is considerable and is making a significant difference to the planet. The use of solar power is thought to save in a year as many as 75 million barrels of oil from being used, and equate to a saving of 35 million tonnes in terms of carbon dioxide. We can add to that total.

Cost Saving

Solar panels will reduce energy bills and be low maintenance. This double effect will benefit the household budget no end and mean that there is more money to spare for luxuries and treating our children. And, of course, the more people that have solar panels installed, the cheaper they will become. This is how any technology works. It is expensive to start with and then becomes cheaper when it is bought by the masses. Solar panels have now been out long enough to have become cheaper to buy and to run.

It has been suggested that on average solar panels pay for themselves in three years. This is in terms of seeing day-to-day savings. However, they also put money on a house, which is a longer-term financial gain. So, if you are looking for something to invest in then you need to search no further than the idea of solar panels. It is a financial investment as much as it is one for the environment.

Investing in the Future

green globe

Pic Credit: Pixabay

So, by investing in solar panels, you are not only investing in the future in terms of your home’s resale value but also in a planet that you still want to be there for future generations to enjoy. It makes sense to invest in this technology now before fossil fuels run out completely. We should embrace these renewable energy sources and show our children the way forward in terms of doing all we can to protect our planet long after we have gone. If we all play our part then the collective result can be immense in terms of the long-term environmental benefits. Governments are looking towards this and need every one the world over to support them if planet-saving products are to have any effect. If this means driving to and from our solar-powered house in an electric car and only buying products housed in recyclable packaging then this is what we must do.

In summary, we should use solar energy within our homes to protect the environment, because it can save money by being cheaper to run and maintain, and also for the fact that it is an investment in the future in terms of house values. Future generations do not have a say but will thank their predecessors for having left them with a planet that it is possible to still live on. Solar panels provide a dual benefit of reducing energy bills and protecting the planet and so should be embraced for the future.

Note: This is a collaborative post
Mamma Musings

Teaching Your Child to Resist Peer Pressure

Peer pressure is when your child is influenced by others. They may feel like they have to ‘follow the crowd’ in order to fit in. This can make them behave differently or change their appearance.

We all understand the desire to be included and this is especially important for children at school. Many children fear that they will be excluded or bullied for not being like their friends.

To help your child avoid peer pressure and feel confident to be themselves, here is some great advice from an independent girl’s school in London…

Talk about peer pressure

girl reading

Pic Credit: Pixabay

To help your child combat peer pressure, they will need to be able to notice when it is happening. Talk to your child about possible situations where they might experience peer pressure and role play some examples. Teach your child to be sensible and confident in their decision making and reassure them that they can always talk to you if someone is making them feel uncomfortable.

Teach your child to say No!

Teach your child to say ‘no’ when something feels wrong. It can be extremely hard for your child to say no to their friends, but it is important to explain that true friends will not pressure them to do something they are unhappy to do. You could teach your child to offer an alternative suggestion in response to peer pressure. For example if they feel that an activity is unsafe, they could suggest a fun activity to do instead.

Watch out for bullies

Spend time getting to know your child’s friends and their families. If your child seems upset by a classmate or tries to avoid someone at school, you should ask their teacher for advice. They will be able to keep an eye on your child and look out for any signs of bullying. It can also help to encourage extra-curricular activities, as this will allow your child to form many social circles.

Encourage individuality

Finally, teach your child to be proud of their individuality and to be accepting of others. This will help them to feel less worried by peer pressure. Peer pressure works by making an individual feel wrong or unaccepted for not following along. Explain to your child that we do not all need to be the same, or do the same things in order to fit in.

Note: This is a collaborative post

 

Features

Helping Your Child Develop Emotional Intelligence

Emotional intelligence enables your child to express, understand and manage their own feelings. These personal skills also teach your child how to respect the feelings of others. 

Children who learn about different emotions from an early age will find it easier to form friendships and face challenges when they start school. Furthermore, studies have found that children with higher levels of emotional intelligence are less likely to suffer with mental health issues.

I have collaborated with an independent girl’s school in London to share some useful advice on how to help your child develop their emotional intelligence…

Empathy

sad child

Pic Credit: Pixabay

Children develop empathy by experiencing it from others. Even if there is nothing you can do to change a bad situation, the key to calming your child’s emotional outburst is acknowledging their feelings. Simply let your child know that you understand how they are feeling. You can also help your child to recognise these feelings by putting a name to their emotions. For example, “I know you are disappointed that you can’t see your friends” or “I can see you are angry that your toy is broken”. Labelling their feelings is a useful step in learning how to manage emotions.

Expression

It is really important to allow your child to express their emotions. Try not to get frustrated or tell your child that they are ‘being silly’ when they are upset or scared. This will give them the message that their feelings are shameful and unacceptable. Instead, encourage your child to talk about how they are feeling and teach them that all feelings are part of being human. This will help your child to accept their own emotions, resolve issues and move forwards.

Problem-Solving

Part of helping your child to develop their emotional intelligence involves teaching them how to problem solve. After you have talked about their feelings, the next step is encouraging them to think about how they can fix the issue or learn from it. If your child makes a mistake, discuss what could have been done differently and what your child can do to fix their mistake. Try to guide your child instead of giving them the solutions. This will give your child the ability to solve problems effectively on they’re own.

Note: This is a collaborative post
Features

How Do My Child’s Lifestyle Choices Affect their Education?

It has been scientifically proven that a healthy lifestyle supports a child’s academic performance. This is why it is incredibly important for parents to encourage nutritious foods, plenty of sleep and daily exercise.

To help your family improve their lifestyle, here are some great tips from a preparatory school in London…

Start the day right

A good breakfast will improve your child’s concentration and energy levels at school. This is why it is really important that this first meal of the day isn’t missed. Make it part of your morning routine and your child will feel the benefits, both mentally and physically. Try to include foods that are rich in fibre and protein to give your child energy, and also include omega-3 to help boost their brain power!

Walk to school

Regular exercise will not only help your child to maintain a healthy weight and fight off germs, but research suggests that children who are physically fit also perform better academically. Be a good role model for your child and demonstrate a healthy lifestyle of your own. Make healthy choices like walking to school

red scooter

Pic Credit: Pixabay

instead of driving and introduce more physical activity into your family routine.

Stay hydrated

Water is not only essential to your child’s health, but it is also an important factor when it comes to learning. Even the mildest form of dehydration can affect your child’s brain power and their mood. Encourage your child to stay hydrated, both at home and at school, by giving them their own refillable water bottle. If your child dislikes the plain taste of water, you could try adding some sliced fruit to give it more flavour.

Sleep well

Your child may think that staying up late to revise before exams will increase their chances of success; however it is more likely to hinder their results. Sleep improves your memory and aids your concentration levels. During sleep your brain absorbs the information you learnt while you were awake, so the more sleep you get the longer your brain has to process all of this information. Encourage your child to go to bed at a sensible time each night, in order to improve their performance at school.

Note: This is a collaborative post

 

Mamma Musings

The Importance of Music Lessons in Schools

Music is such an important part of a child’s education. This is because it can be used to improve concentration, develop listening skills and boost creativity. 

Music will not only benefit your child academically, but it can also help to relieve stress and support your child’s mental health. 

To help you learn more, I have teamed up with a music school in Hertfordshire to put together this list of musical benefits…

Music enhances memory

Music is a great way to improve your child’s memory. In fact, studies have shown that music can help to enhance many cognitive abilities. This is because when playing an instrument; a child needs to read music; remember melodies and then repeat them.

Music improves coordination

guitar

Pic Credit: Pixabay

Playing an instrument can also help to improve coordination and motor skills. The piano is an excellent example of this. When playing the piano a child needs to use both hands to play different keys, read music and press the foot pedal all at the same time!

Music boosts confidence

Learning music at school or as an extra-curricular activity provides many levels of learning and accomplishments. These levels can be extremely motivational and confidence boosting for children, especially if they go on to study music or perform on stage.

Music aids relaxation

Music can be very beneficial for children’s mental health because it can be used to relax and de-stress. Playing an instrument can also have a calming effect on children because they need to focus on timing and notes. This focus allows children to take a break from any daily stresses or worries they may have.

Music teaches perseverance

Children who learn how to play a musical instrument at an early age will develop the skills required to move into the music industry professionally. This practice and dedication will teach them how to reach their goals throughout life, through hard work and perseverance.

Note: This is a collaborative post