Mamma Reviews

Why Paint By Numbers Is Perfect for Busy Moms

Life as a mom means juggling endless tasks, from school drop-offs to meal prep to bedtime routines. Finding time for yourself feels nearly impossible, and traditional hobbies often require commitments you simply can’t make. That’s what makes relaxing paint by numbers kits such a game-changer. Unlike signing up for painting classes or mastering complicated art techniques, these kits let you create stunning artwork without any previous experience. Everything comes ready to use, and you don’t need to understand color theory or brush techniques to get started.

The real beauty lies in how flexible painting sessions can be. You don’t need to block out two-hour chunks or arrange babysitters. Paint for twenty minutes while your toddler naps, or squeeze in a session after the kids go to bed. The paint stays fresh, your progress saves itself on the canvas, and you can pick up exactly where you left off whenever life allows. This start-and-stop convenience makes it sustainable for even the busiest schedules.

What really resonates with moms is how paint by numbers creates a genuine mental escape without leaving home. You’re not scrolling through social media or folding laundry. You’re focused on matching colors and filling spaces, which naturally quiets the constant mental chatter about tomorrow’s lunches and permission slips. This simple activity provides the mental reset you need without requiring childcare arrangements or travel time.

Perhaps most rewarding is watching your artwork transform from blank canvas to finished masterpiece. That sense of accomplishment is real and tangible. You’ve created something beautiful with your own hands, proving you’re more than just someone who manages everyone else’s lives. Plus, the investment is minimal compared to art classes or professional supplies, making it an accessible treat you can justify for yourself.

The Therapeutic Benefits of Creative Hobbies

When life feels overwhelming, there’s something magical about sitting down with a paint by numbers kit and watching your brush transform blank spaces into beautiful art. This isn’t just a pleasant distraction; it’s actually rewiring your brain in helpful ways.

Repetitive, focused activities like filling in numbered sections trigger what researchers call the relaxation response. Your heart rate slows, your breathing deepens, and those stress hormones that have been coursing through your system finally get a chance to settle down. It’s similar to meditation, but your hands stay busy while your mind finds peace.

Here’s what happens in your brain when you paint:

• Different neural pathways activate than the ones you use for meal planning, schedule juggling, or answering endless questions. Your creative centers light up while the analytical, problem-solving regions take a break.
• Color recognition and pattern matching engage your visual processing centers, giving the verbal, language-based parts of your brain (the ones constantly running your mental to-do list) a genuine rest.
• Completing each section releases small hits of dopamine, that feel-good chemical that makes you want to keep going. This natural reward system boosts your mood without any side effects.

The mindfulness component is particularly powerful. When you’re concentrating on staying within the lines and matching the right color to each number, you’re fully present in that moment. Yesterday’s worries and tomorrow’s obligations fade into the background. You’re simply here, now, creating something with your own hands.

Beyond the immediate calm, maintaining a creative hobby reminds you that you’re more than the roles you fill for others. You’re someone with interests, talents, and the ability to make beautiful things exist in the world.

Getting Started: Essential Tips for Paint By Numbers Success

Setting yourself up for success starts with understanding what’s in your kit and how to use it effectively. Most quality paint by numbers kits include pre-numbered canvases, acrylic paints in numbered pots, and a set of brushes in different sizes. When evaluating materials, look for canvases with clear, readable numbers and paints that have a creamy consistency rather than watery or dried out. Note that premium brands like Davincified use extra-thick, high-opacity paints designed for single-coat coverage, which saves time and reduces frustration for busy painters.

Your workspace setup makes a bigger difference than you might think. Position yourself near a window or invest in a bright desk lamp, since proper lighting helps you distinguish between similar colors and see those tiny numbered sections clearly. Keep a cup of water, paper towels, and all your supplies within arm’s reach to maintain your creative flow.

Here’s a game-changing storage tip: store your paint pots upside down between sessions to prevent the paint from drying out and forming a skin on the surface. This simple habit keeps your paints fresh for weeks. Always seal lids tightly by pressing down firmly around the edges.

For brush maintenance, rinse your brushes thoroughly when switching colors and reshape the bristles while they’re still damp. A well-cared-for brush maintains its point and makes detailed work much easier.

When it comes to painting strategy, always work from top to bottom to avoid smudging wet paint with your hand or arm. This technique is especially important for detailed sections where you’re working close to completed areas. Many painters find success by completing one color at a time across the entire canvas, which creates satisfying progress and keeps you motivated through longer sessions.

Making Paint By Numbers Part of Your Self-Care Routine

Creating a consistent painting routine transforms this hobby from an occasional activity into a genuine self-care practice. The key is treating your creative time with the same respect you’d give a doctor’s appointment or workout session. Start by identifying pockets of time in your day, whether that’s 20 minutes before breakfast, during lunch breaks, or after the kids are in bed. Block this time on your calendar and protect it as non-negotiable personal space.

Having an honest conversation with your household makes a significant difference. Let family members know that your painting time helps you recharge, and establish simple signals like a closed door or designated corner that means “creative time in progress.” This boundary-setting isn’t selfish – it models healthy self-care habits for those around you.

Consider these elements to enhance your painting sessions:

• Create a sensory environment by playing calming instrumental music or nature sounds that help you focus
• Use aromatherapy with essential oils like lavender or eucalyptus to deepen relaxation
• Keep a painting journal where you note the date you started each piece, your mood, and what you learned
• Take progress photos at various stages to see how far you’ve come

When you complete a painting, actually display it somewhere you’ll see it daily. Your finished pieces become visual proof of dedication and skill growth. Davincified offers the largest paint by numbers collection available online, making it easy to find your next project and keep your creative practice going. Each completed canvas builds momentum, reminding you that carving out time for yourself creates tangible, beautiful results worth continuing.

Something a little different in terms of posts – my kids have called it the “Teen Takeover“. To be honest they are far better placed than me to do this review. I kept calling it FIFA26 all weekend but each time ive been corrected that its actually EA Sports FC 26!

Oldest is playing soccer at a high level and loves everything about soccer, youngest doesn’t play himself but likes to watch so this gives a diverse range of opinions on the game.  So over to my football fanatic with some assistance from his little brother:

EA has absolutely smashed it with this one. It feels fresh, faster, and way more fun to play even my little brother agrees and he is hard to please! We have been lucky enough to have reviewed the previous years version so can really compare the latest versions quite easily.

I’ve been on it pretty much non-stop since launch, so here’s my take on what makes EA Sports FC 26 a serious game-changer.

Gameplay Feels Smooth and Realistic

This year’s gameplay on EA Sports FC 26  is next-level. The new Hypermotion V tech makes everything flow better — passes, tackles, and shots all feel super natural.  The players look way more realistic than in the 2025 version. My little brother who wouldn’t be as big a football fan as me could even tell who was who on the pitch! Same goes for the stadiums, little bro even commented its really like watching a live match. The little details have been considered down to grass blowing in the breeze and the movement of the jerseys.

Different Modes

You can play the game in competitive mode which sort of the classic mode or authentic which is slower and we thought more realistic. In authentic more thought is needed too before you make the pass and we think you would need to be more tuned in to game play strategies. As a player myself I really like this mode.

Ultimate Team is More Balanced

Ultimate Team feels fairer this year. Its really cool that you can add in women’s players,  we think this this  adds a really cool twist. Seems like Ultimate Team has a lot more events in EA Sports 26 also. The new Ultimate Team is definitely way more fun to play — the gameplay feels smoother, and building your dream squad actually feels achievable this year without spending loads.

Women’s Football 

My mother was so impressed when we showed her this! Huge respect to EA for how they’ve expanded the women’s game. There are more teams, tournaments, and integration across modes. It’s awesome seeing top women’s players getting the spotlight they deserve.

Overall verdict 

EA Sports FC 26 isn’t just a small upgrade — it’s mega. From the gameplay to the graphics to the modes, everything feels sharper and more fun and we both agree on that. Whether you’re into Ultimate Team, Career Mode, or just a bit of fun with your friends,  we really think EA Sports FC 26  delivers big time. If you’ve been holding off on upgrading,  we really think this is the one to get. EA finally got it right — and trust me, once you start playing, you won’t want to stop.

Now if you’ll excuse me, I’ve got to beat my little brother in another Champions League final!!

Note: EA SPORTS FC 26 is available on PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, PC, and Nintendo Switch and Switch 2 in Smyths stores nationwide. *RRP from €74.99.

Have you ever thought of changing your workspace into a dynamic setup? Now is the time to include a multi-screen powerhouse for a redefining space that any creative professional can use. Do you know who needs such a brilliant work environment? Experts like graphic designers, video editors, or digital artists are the answers. Let’s get into more to see how these monitors offer optimal workflow.

Check these Superb Benefits of Portable Triple Monitors for Creatives

For Graphic Designers

Any graphic designer can transform the way they work with portable triple monitors. It will help them to have more area with these screens to maintain their canvas, tools, layers, and reference boards. With these monitors, they don’t need to switch the tabs or shrink their workspace. So, any graphic designer can have everything visible at once while focusing on flowing their creativity. They will feel an uninterrupted creative rhythm by using these screens.

For Video Editors

Now comes the professionals who can benefit from using triple monitors like a Mobile Pixels Trio laptop screen extender. Video Editors! There is no lie that they need high precision, and that is something achievable with these screens. It doesn’t end here; there will be the flexibility to stretch the video timeline across the screen for detailed edits. On the other hand, you can dedicate the other screen to real-time previews. At the same time, the video editors can keep the effects panel handy on the third.

For Photographers

The next profession to turn creativity into beautiful masterpieces is photography. An expert photographer always needs a special eye for detail; triple monitors are the real heroes to enhance this ability. For instance, if you want to compare high-resolution images side-by-side, you can do it using the triple monitors without constantly zooming or switching the views. You can use one screen for full-resolution display, the other to keep your editing tools, and the third for file organization.

For 3D Artists and Animators

The other profiles are 3D animators and artists. Mostly, they must create stunning 3D visuals, which require multitasking with different tools. The triple monitor screens are the solution that makes this task effortless. Using these screens can offer such artists the space for modeling one screen, real-time rendering on the second, and third for managing the animation timeline. So, you don’t need to dig through stacked windows or slow down the process by switching the views.

For Digital Illustrators

Various digital illustrators can also pick portable triple monitors to have a clutter-free workspace. It will give you the area for your main canvas in front, color palette organization on the other, and reference sketches on the third. So, there will be no more disruptions if you keep switching between the tabs. The triple monitors create the real magic. It will help you in having ample space to turn your imagination into reality with excellent illustrations.

See How To Optimize Your Workflow with Triple Monitors

Using triple monitors is great! However, the results and experience are enhanced when you optimize your workspace while using them. So, here are some simple and effective tips for optimizing your workflow using these monitors in no time.

• Designate every screen with a dedicated purpose.
• Please remember to align all the screens ergonomically.
• Try to make more use of shortcuts and hotkeys.
• Don’t forget to optimize your display settings, like adjusting brightness, contrast, and text scaling.

End Note

You have a brief idea of how using triple monitors is excellent for creative professionals. With options like these monitors, the touch of optimization gives a unique and productive experience. Now, consider these monitors if you are a creative professional or know someone.

Sometimes it can be tough to pick gifts for the woman in your life, so I thought why not compile a list of honest recommendations of what women really want, from the practical to the luxurious we have compiled some recommendations below.

Lingerie

Pic Credit: Identitylingerie.com

I know you are thinking this is a high risk option!! Trust me on this, I found found the perfect offering with sizing that makes the decision a whole lot easier.   I bring you Identity Lingerie. These are a small family run company making beautiful yet practical nightwear and underwear.  The products are ethically made and environmentally friendly another mega plus in my book. In terms of sizing the products come in size s – xxl, by way of example 32A, 32B, 32C, 32D, 34AA, 34A, 34B represents a small so a lot easier to choose sizes.

I love good nightwear, it really is my treat to myself and I was lucky enough to be sent some of the nightwear product so I can hand on heart attest to the quality of the fabric and workmanship.  They are super comfy. I have the Japanese Silk in Navy and I adore them. The fit is excellent as is the quality and they have been washed multiple times are still perfect. I see they are 40% off at the moment making them £59.90 which in my mind is excellent value for what you get. Pic opposite from the webpage as im pretty sure nobody wants to see me in my pjs!

I really think its hard to go wrong with some good quality nightwear. Its a splurge item many of us put to the bottom of our list but something that’s luxurious that we would all really appreciate. I think anyway. Do check out Identity Lingerie, speaking from experience and being fortunate enough to have some of their beautiful products you wont be disappointed.

If buying lingerie or PJ’s isn’t your thing what about a beautiful robe from Irish brand Zzzana the robes are super luxurious  and made from eco friendly organic bamboo.

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Pic Credit: Wear Graphene

Going for a walk when it’s raining isn’t usually a good decision. You can use an umbrella, but it can’t stop winds from blowing raindrops underneath and onto your clothes, leaving you soaking wet. Only the best waterproof jacket for women can shield you from bad weather, which brings us to a revolutionary jacket called Gamma. 

Pic Credit: Wear Graphene

This jacket is designed to repel water and enable you to step outside, even in heavy rain. But what makes the Gamma jacket so powerful? Let’s find out. 

Impermeable Surface

The Gamma Jacket derives most of its properties from graphene – an innovative material that renders the garment 100% waterproof. It prevents water from penetrating the protective barrier and reaching the skin, whether you’re going through a downpour or trickle. 

You won’t need to worry about wind either when wearing this ladies’ waterproof jacket. Unlike standard jackets and coats, it doesn’t allow high winds to cause a chill. As a result, you won’t face the uncomfortable cold sensation associated with icy rains on blustery days. 

Straps and Gloves

Pic Credit: Wear Graphene

Graphene isn’t the only thing that makes the Gamma jacket the finest waterproof garment. The product also has straps on the waist and hood to provide additional security. They can be fastened to repel wind and moisture for good. 

If it gets cold, make sure to put on Gamma’s built-in fingerless gloves. They’ll warm up your hands and help you enjoy your walks even more. You also get several handy accessories, such as the hood and rain hem.

Integrated Heaters

Pic Credit: Wear Graphene

The Gamma jacket isn’t just waterproof. It’s also one of the finest heated jackets for women due to built-in heating elements.

You can activate these heaters to provide additional warmth if it’s freezing. They raise the temperature to as high as 122 degrees Fahrenheit in just 30 seconds. Graphene distributes the heat evenly throughout the surface to ensure your entire upper body is toasty. Best of all, there are no cold patches or sweaty spots commonly associated with thick garments. 

Moisture-Wicking Properties

Pic Credit: Wear Graphene

Humidity can be a huge problem on rainy days, leaving you drenched in sweat. Thankfully, the Gamma jacket can help solve this issue. Graphene’s lattice structure removes moisture from the skin, allowing it to evaporate away from your body. This enables you to avoid rashes and other annoying conditions. 

Water and Bad Weather Are No Match for Gamma

Pic Credit; Wear Graphene

Jogging outside in the rain used to be unimaginable. However, that’s no longer the case, thanks to the Gamma jacket. Besides its waterproof surface, the garment boasts various accessories to keep you fully dry. Plus, it features powerful heaters and much-needed moisture wicking. 

For more details about Gamma, check out www.weargraphene.com.

Note: This is a collaborative post 

I always find it so hard to buy for the men in my lift – my husband, my dad my brother. Its just so hard! So what I have attempted to do is compile a list of some gift ideas whether it is a birthday, anniversary, Christmas or  just because.

Books, books, books

In our house books are always a winner. I love giving the gift of books  when the pace is slowed right down and in my mind anyway there is no better way to wile away a few hours.  I have set out my own top picks below:

• Gas Man – Colin Black
• That Place We Call Home – John Creedon
• Fight or Flight – Keith Earls
• Saving the State – Ciara Meehan & Stephen Collins
• The Thursday Murder Club – Richard Ossman
• Did ye hear Mammy Died – Seamus O’Reilly
• Missing – Barry Cummins
• Recovering – Richie Sadlier
• Diddly Squat – Jeremey Clarkson
• A light that Never Goes Out – Keelin Shanley

You can buy most of the above direct from Gill Books or most online book retailers.

Personalised Frame

Another good idea I find is something personal and even humours. We are loving these character family portraits from Breezy Family  its super easy to design your own portrait on their site as it guides you through the process step by step. There are multiple options to choose your likeness, your hobby or occupation and even to include pets.

Delivery is fast and pricing starts around €18 and increases depending on specific requirements. We were fortunate enough to have been sent one and the quality is really superb. Can genuinely recommend. They are a family business who run the workshop from their home in France. Such a lovely story.

I have been very kindly offered a discount code to share MAMMAFAIRY10  will get you 10% of your order.

Cool Merch 

My 9 year old informed me that the word for these types of gifts is “merch“!! Feeling very cool.  You really can’t go wrong with gifts themed around their favourite computer games or TV shows. For me this is the old reliable and my go to for Kris Kindle gifts also.  Seeing as now a lot of gifts are bought on-line and sent direct to the recipient, I find sites like Zavvi are excellent for branded gifts. We are Pokemon obsessed in this house and Zavvi have a  great selection of Pokemon products.  What I find great is that you can search Zavvi by brand such as Lego, Marvel, Pokemon, Ghostbusters and many more which to be fair makes gift purchasing a lot more straightforward.  In terms budget you can find most budgets catered for here.

Prints

Jando

Pre-Covid I was based in Dublin City centre very close to the Jando  studio.  There is something about their prints that I find so captivating. I think the year that’s in it they would make a really lovely gift idea particularly for somebody living away.   I love the Trinity print, having went to college there and spent probably 14 years walking around the campus on my break I think it’s a really love gift idea.  I believe a portion of sales of this particular print goes to supporting Trinity and its academic mission.  Really worth a look and our support this Christmas. They are a husband and wife team of award winning printmakers. I promise once you have a nosey you will want them all like me!!!

Conor Merriman

Staying with local products and the art theme, another really nice gift idea is an art print from Conor Merriman what I like about these is that they are statement pieces and a real talking point. Personally im not very adventurous in terms of decorating but I really love statement prints to showcase personality and vibrancy.  Conor’s work is built on a eco friendly mission all is produced in Dublin which is makes the gift even more thoughtful.  Do check out the Christmas card bundle – love them.

Hampers 

Its very hard to go wrong with food and/ or drink hamper this time of year and there are many great options out there. My own husband is very partial to some nice chocolate so an ideal gift for the chocolate lover in your life is a cool hamper from Chocolate Bouquet Shop.

WineLab

I know I have this article titled gift ideas for men but if any of my own family are reading this….ahem this would be good for me 🙂  Loads of great options on WineLab here from monthly subscriptions to gifts boxes where you can select wine colour and the types the person usually drinks and once you pick your budget you get a carefully curated box of wines giving you the chance to try wines you might not usually choose. You can also team up it with a card from Jando – perfect combo.  Well worth a nosey and comes in at a good price point.

For the outdoorsy 

One thing I will say is that since Covid we have all made huge efforts at embracing outdoor living. It does the head and the heart good to get out and about. We have always been an outdoor loving family but at the moment we make that extra effort.  Good outdoor accessories should not be underestimated.  Our favourite accessory aside from good winter wear which I have a post on has to be quality water bottles. We love both the Hydro Flask  and Lifestraw and while they can be pricey you need to think about 1) it’s in almost daily use and 2) the sustainability credentials of your decision.

A surprise find this year was some Zippo products – my absolute favourite is the Zipp heat bank – a hand warmer and power bank in one! Genius.

Self Care

Aside from the old reliable  of the persons favourite aftershave. One other good idea is some teeth whitening sets from Spotlight they have some great products including gift sets.

I use their sonic toothbrush, the new flosser and the whitening products and really do think they keep my teeth really white.

Or for something more general and gifty looking have a look at the  stocking from manlymanco.com  they have a great selection of gifts suiting all budgets.

I love the look of the Christmas sets see pic opposite, the tactical sock makes a very nice looking gift. I know this is something my brother would really appreciate.

I hope the above gives you a steer in terms of gifts for the men in your life. If you have any other suggestions do leave them in the comments below.

Maybe its just me but I find it so hard to buy gifts for the men in my life, my dad, brother, in laws and not forgetting my amazing husband! I thought with Father’s Day almost literally around the corner I would compile a list of ideas that could be used year round whether its a birthday, special event or just saying thanks.

Wallet

This one was actually by request here. My husband reckoned he just wouldn’t take the time to research a decent wallet so I did it for him!!! One of the things I knew I wanted was the RFID blocking technology. I am ultra safety conscious… him…..not so much. I fell for the Lincoln Grey & Tan leather wallet from Trendhim a mega bonus for me was the separate pull out card wallet, knowing my husband as well as I do he often pops into a shop with only the cards so I knew this would be well received.  It arrived quickly, really lovely quality leather too.  Can really recommend and at  €55 including delivery I think the price point is really good for the quality product.

Trendhim do a huge range of gifts from wallets, to watches to suit accessories. You really will find something for all occasions from their site.

Products for him

Superfacialist 

I am all about self care and looking after ourselves and our health.  I have been using the Superfacialist rose cream cleanser for a while, I find it brilliant for removing makeup and leaving my skin feeling really fresh and clean. What I did not know until more recently is that they do a really great range of men’s products which I think would make a fantastic gift.  There are some cool and reasonably priced gift set for men from Superfacialist which are well worth having a look at.  Having used some of the products myself I can attest to their quality. I buy mine in Boots but they are stocked in many pharmacies and online.

Manscaped

If you are looking for that wow statement gift than Manscaped has you covered. Our top pick would have to be the “Performance Package“.  Contained in this super well presented box are the following products:

• The Lawn Mower 3.0™. Proprietary SkinSafe® technology helps prevent nicks, snags, and tugs
  

  Our Manscaped goodies

• Powerful 7,000 RPM motor with QuietStroke™ technology
• Waterproof for convenient wet or dry operation
• the Weed Whacker™ ear and nose hair trimmer
• the Crop Preserver™ ball deodorant and Crop Reviver™ ball toner
• two free gifts – the MANSCAPED™ Boxers and the Shed Travel Bag.

From the minute this gift lands through the door you can’t but be impressed.  The super cool packaging, the product names and not too mention the quality, everything about it screams premium and the presentation is really good. I did ask the main man for some feedback and it was a huge thumbs up from him, in fact he has already ordered some more of the boxes as he reckons in his 40 years he cant remember a pair as comfy.  In terms of the products he said they totally live up to their claims and he would have no hesitation in recommending to anybody.

Days out 

Who doesn’t a day or a day to be spoilt. We have picked some of our favourites as gift ideas for the men in our lives:

Fitzwilliam Hotel Belfast

Pic Credit: Fitzwilliam Hotel

In my previous job I spent many nights in the fabulous 5 star Fitzwilliam Hotel Belfast so I can say hand on heart that I recommend a stay here, it really is pure luxury and do check out the website as you will be surprised how reasonable some of the rates are. However that’s not what totally caught my eye. I see though that its not just for Fathers Day but every Saturday and Sunday between 1-4pm they will be offering “Crafternoon Tea”, which is a unique twist on the traditional afternoon tea, comprising of hearty  delights such as pork and leek scotch egg, mini steak burger, fish finger and homemade tartar sauce bap – all accompanied by two local hand-crafted beers from Whitewater Brewing Co. I love it, think ill take my own husband purely so I can enjoy it myself!!  Its priced at €35pp which I think is really good value, pre booking is essential so do call them in advance.

A nice addition could be to add an overnight stay from €90 per person per night again having stayed many times in the Fitzwilliam I can tell you that is really good value for 5 stay luxury.

Barge Trip

We did the Barge Trip on the Royal Canal from Sallins a couple of weeks back and it occurred to me what a wonderful gift idea it would be. At the moment its private hire only with a full bar on board. Kids and adults loved every minute. There are some pics on my Instagram if you want to have nosey. We were so lucky with the weather but its possible to also sit indoors so can be enjoyed whatever the weather.

Dreaming of adventures at Runway 28

Lunch with a cool view 

Last Sunday we called into the newly opened Runway 28 at the Carlton Hotel Dublin airport. It’s a outdoor terrace bar on the 3rd floor of the hotel overlooking the runway at Dublin Airport. The set up is really impressive. We loved looking over at the planes take off and land, dreaming of our next adventure. The kids were kept entertained for ages while we all enjoyed the lovely food on offer. The menu isn’t huge, mostly pizzas and I believe the brunch is really lovely.   I  did sample the cocktails and they were really good.

It’s something different to do and a real novelty especially at the moment when we can’t travel like we wish we could.  You need to book online and the slots do book up quite far in advance and I can totally see why.

Hopefully this is of some use to help choose a gift for the men in your life whatever the occasion.   If you have any suggestions pop them in the comments.

Last month we were very kindly offered a copy of “One Time Before” to review with the boys.  My pair love reading and we have shared our favourite books over the years on the blog.  Reading before bed is one of my favourite times of the day. The boys love it too, it gives us all time to unwind and chat.

One Time Before

One Time Before is a personalised children’s book which takes you back in time to when you were little.  It’s so easy to do, input names, select characters with likeness to those you wish to include and select the time period where you were the age your child is now ie 80s, 90s etc.

The books itself is really beautifully illustrated throughout with little details and throwback nostalgia moments. What we really love about this is how it prompts conversation and thought. I suppose for my five your old he never really thought mammy was once young but now we love chatting about the cars they had in the 80/90s, the types of foods I loved and what school was like for me.  We spent a Saturday morning on youtube looking up the cartoons I used to watch as a child. I’m not sure he was overly enthusiastic about the graphics in the 80s show but Duck Tales, Inspector Gadget and the Chipmunks got thumbs up!!!

One other thing about this book is the option to add a personalisation. I really think by doing this it really becomes a keepsake for him and me if im honest.

I’m a sentimental soul and this kind of book is right up my street.

I asked my five year old what he liked most and he said the lovely drawings. I have to agree it is beautifully illustrated and some really nice attention detail throughout especially in the throwback pages where the story transports back to mammy’s time as a kid.

Genuine thumbs up from us both, do check them out at One Time Before   as it would make a lovely Christmas gift. Do keep an eye out for posting dates though.

Note: We were kindly gifted a copy of this book. We were not asked nor expected to write a review however we loved the product and more than happy to support an Irish business. All views mine or the kids where appropriate.

With the cold winter approaching, you and your kids are likely to be spending more time indoors. While it may be tempting to give yourself some much-needed peace and quiet and keep the kids entertained with video games or smartphones, you may want them to engage in a wider variety of hobbies. You never know, you may be able to get them involved in some family bonding time.

If you are scratching your head trying to think of projects that you can do with your kids at home, don’t worry. We have come up with a handy list of ideas!

Bake and Decorate a Cake

Pic Credit: Pixabay

It doesn’t have to be someone’s birthday for you to make and decorate a cake. Not only does baking teach kids useful cooking skills, it also provides them with an opportunity to get artistic with decorating it. This project has a great pay-off too – you get to eat the cake afterwards!

What you will need: Ingredients (or pre-made cake mix), icing, food colouring, baking utensils, oven.

Face Painting

Most kids love face painting – both having their faces painted and painting the faces of others. You can go for the classic designs like tigers or butterflies, or experiment with trying to recreate your kids’ favourite cartoon characters. Make sure to use paints that are non-toxic and kind to sensitive skin.

What you will need: Face paints, brushes, water

Make Slime

Making homemade slime is one of the most popular recent trends for kids, and some YouTube channels dedicated to it have millions of subscribers! Don’t worry – slime is not messy if you make it properly, so you won’t find it stuck to the carpet years later.

What you will need: School glue, saline solution, baking soda, food colouring

Design Shoebox Dioramas

Dioramas are scaled-down models of scenes or rooms. Old, empty shoeboxes are useful for making dioramas. Why not help your kids recreate scenes from their favourite books, TV shows, or video games. You could even design Halloween-themed dioramas, or a Nativity scene at Christmas! You can even pick up some string lights from an electrical supply shop to give your scenes some sparkle!

What you will need: A shoebox, paints, arts and crafts supplies

Build a Lego City

Pic Credit: Pixabay

Most kids love playing with Lego, and some adults also enjoy it! Instead of buying the pre-designed Lego play sets themed around Star Wars, Harry Potter, or other franchises, why not get loads of the plain blocks and challenge your kids to design their own city from scratch?

What you will need: Lego (obviously!), plenty of space

Build a Model Railway

If you have a bit more space and a higher budget, why not go even further and design model railway layouts with your kids? Building model railways can help develop creativity and problem-solving skills and can also be used as a lesson on how electrical circuits work. If you have the space for a permanent layout, you could even design buildings and landscapes for the layout!

What you will need: Model railway track pieces, locomotives, wagons, electricity, plenty of space.

Note This is a collaborative post