AD Thunderbirds are go! Bandai toys Reveiw

A much lighter post from my recent posts that have been on my blog. Its funny isn't it when certain toys take you back to your childhood, I remember my brother being insanely mad about the thunderbirds when we were kids I can remember watching them on the television, I don't mean how you see them today I mean the puppet type ones I remember getting really cross with him for TV hogging and always wanting to watch the show!

Since Liam was little he has really enjoyed watching Thunderbirds and I have enjoyed watching the episodes with him and he loves it just as much as my brother did when he was a child which is great and even better now that thunderbirds have just been relaunched and a new series has started On CITV alongside a new range of toys being launched from Bandai.

We were lucky enough to get to try out some of the new toys they have taken my house by storm Liam who was the only one who currently liked thunderbirds this has started his brothers off wanting to collect the whole range they are interactive and really well-made toys let me tell you what we received.

• Thunderbird 1
• Thunderbird 2 and Virgil Tracy
• Thunderbird 3
• Thunderbird The Mechanic Action Figure
• Thunderbird Virgil Tracy Action Figure

Thunderbird 1

Thunderbird 1 motion tech figure is a classic from the show. Fly the vehicle to hear sounds as it moves. You can rotate the thrusters and release the retractable wings to recreate Thunderbird 1’s launch. This vehicle cam also fit inside the Tracy Island playset. the sound effects are great the boys loved whooshing this up and down its also the perfect size for child's hands to work really easily.

Thunderbird 2 and Virgil Tracy

The Thunderbird 2 and Virgil Tracy figure is one of the boys favourite and mine, to be honest of all the vehicles. It is a great size and I love that you can sit Virgil Tracy in the cockpit ready for action! By pressing the launch button and you can hear the take-off sounds. This toy also has a grappling hook and zip line. Virgil Tracy can actually slide down the zip line for great imaginative play and great for children who like things that wind up and wind down it really gives the toys that something special.

Virgil Tracy

The Thunderbirds Rescue ready Virgil Tracy figure is 30cm tall (RRP £19.99). He comes with detachable rescue claw to help with demolition, heavy lifting and clearing debris. Virgil Tracy also has a search and rescue light to help see into any dark spaces and he can also send out coded signals. Press the button and you will hear Virgil’s voice as he talks with international rescue on his missions I personally love the size of this figure it means you can't lose him and he is always there on standby this has gone to bed with Jack every night since we received him he loves him who doesn't love a hero!

Thunderbird 3

Thunderbird 3 is also a motion tech vehicle, again you can fly the vehicle to hear the sounds as it moves. You can also rotate the central shaft for more sounds. This vehicle has an extending grasping arm and also fits inside the Tracy Island playset. The extra arms that pop up make it a really interesting toy for children and the fact that it is interactive its really well made and it has been bashed about and flown around the kitchen and is still living to tell the tale it's really well made.

The Mechanic

The Mechanic my personal favourite (RRP £19.99) is by far a very cool figure! My son loves him, he always goes for the baddies! The mechanic is a villain not to be messed with! His technical skills allow him to cause chaos, even when he is nowhere to be seen. He comes with a neuron driver and ion hammer as well as a moving blaster. Press his buttons and he will also talk.

The figures are all made to a high standard and the detail is fantastic. These 30cm character figures come with articulated joints, lights, five phrases, plus fully working rescue claw for Virgil and we especially love the firing weapon attached to the Mechanic it makes it seem all that more exciting for the kids.

The Bandai Thunderbirds are go range is suitable for ages 4+ and are available nationwide and online and would make great gifts for kids for birthdays Christmas and treats. 

*We were sent the Thunderbirds are go toys for the purpose of this review all opinions remain honest and my own. 

Pregnancy - Planing the drive to the Hospital with Kia Stonic

I'm sure most mums whilst pregnant and pre-labour are guilty of this, We make plans to pack a changing bag, an overnight bag we decorate the nursery and prepare by buying baby equipment but how many of us actually plan the route to the hospital how are you going to get there when those labour pains set in? This is where your partner/ birthing partner can step in to help.

To celebrate the launch of the All-New Kia Stonic Urban Crossover, Kia is hosting a new test drive initiative introduced to help dads-to-be practice for the transition to fatherhood, covering everything from the drive to the hospital to the dreaded first car seat fitting. This was something that myself and Ian didn't really think about when I was pregnant with the twins and I'm sure most couples can relate to this, I got Ian to try out the challenges to see how he measured up! I was invited along a week or so ago to Leicester road Mountsorrel Loughborough dealership to test drive the New Kia Stonic, and found it to be an amazing car!

Before the actual test drive we took part in a series of challenges the first was similar to a treasure hunt except each clue led to something that you would need for a complete changing bag - the pressure was on, similar to the pressure you would feel if your partner was going into labour and you had to pack a real changing bag it was great fun working out the clues which were cleverly Placed around the dealership each one leading to another thing that belonged in the bag it was timed - I don't think Ian was that quick although the changing bag quite suited him! 

The second was the dreaded fitting of the car seat - it was again timed and Ian really struggled to get this in even though when we go out and about now he fits two car seats into our car he is a pro - but I think it was the pressure of being timed, it is so, so important you know how the car seat fits into the car when you go into labour and before you leave the hospital. Make sure you and your birthing partner or daddy to be knows how the car seat fits.

If you follow my blog regularly you will know I only passed my driving test just over a month ago so I went to the test drive with the full intention that there was no way I was going to drive the car (I hadn't driven since I passed). With a bit of gentle persuasion I decided that I would give it a go and do you know what I am actually so glad I did, I passed my test in a fairly new car so I thought that the Kia Stonic couldn't be much different - I was wrong it was so much better.

When I realised I had to reverse out of the Kia dealership I was really nervous  The reverse camera system with dynamic lines came on in front of me on the screen which made it all the more easier to reverse it is also there to help you park. The mirrors have sensors on them so you know if you are getting too close to another car or a white line, central reservation or even if you are trying to change lanes too soon. I actually felt like a celebrity, The interior throughout the Kia Stonic has a real sporty feel to it. This car has all the features of a family car yet it is super stylish, classy and smooth drive. 

If you love gadgets like my partner does this car is packed with them if you have an Apple phone or android you can syncronise your music or sat nav (which is in built) I always find a car is a place where you actually get to decide what music you want to listen to if your going to have a slick car like this you may as well make great use of the alone time with the music of your choice, however I can also see it would come in handy with a new born and white noise or nursery rhymes playing to soothe a crying baby. The car is great for the tech lover it also has other great features, Autonomous emergency braking, Reversing camera system with dynamic guidelines DAB radio and Hill start assist.

I'm not great with technology and gadgets but I do love styling things my own and the Kia Stonic comes in an array of bright colours you can choose which colour combinations you would like, which is a feature that I personally love. The seats are really comfortable and heated too which is exactly what you need at this time of year along with the steering wheel being heated which is great for the cold winter mornings. The steering wheel was really light and easy to move. 

When I went for the test drive I took one of my little ones with me I noticed there was plenty of room in the back for one car seat or even three - like a bigger family might need. The car itself is very quiet and smooth to drive it has a good power behind it even though it only has a one litre engine, for a brand new car I thought it was very reasonably priced and comes with a seven-year warranty which is fab so no need to worry about the car which is a great thing if you are a parent its peace of mind that you know at least one thing is always going to be reliable. The boot isn't huge but there is plenty enough space for a pushchair I did have a close look and I am almost positive you would be able to get my double in it.

I can honestly say this car is definitely made to keep parents in mind espcially ones that feel like they are not quite ready to grow up yet, it is a very cool car, that is a great all rounder, it would be great for first time parents that love the modern car, unfortunately for us and our family of seven the car just wouldn't be big enough for all of us, but I would definitely think about having this as a second car just to run around in the day time as it would be plenty big enough for myself the twins and Jack.

If you are looking for a car that is cool stylish yet practical for parenting the Kia Stonic ticks all the boxes and is definitely for you, Don't miss out book your test drive today!  

Daddy Day Car All-New Kia Stonic test drives test drives will be taking place at selected Kia dealerships in November. While places are limited, customers wishing to take part can contact kiadealer@kazoo.co.uk to inquire about their nearest dealership and book a slot. For more information on the All-New Kia Stonic please visit www.kia.co.uk/stonic

*In collaboration with Kia

Created by magic - Personalised prints and Keepsake Gifts

This week we were very lucky to receive and review prints made by Created by magic if you haven't heard of created by magic, let me tell you a bit about them they are a website that specialises in personalised prints and keep safe gifts which are truly beautiful. There are products for all different occasions such as first birthday ideas, christening gifts or gifts just because.

I really love personalised items so I loved the idea of these, I chose the bright rainbow prints  because I love rainbows there is something really special about a rainbow and as the twins will be my last babies all my children are special but there is something magical about having twins, it seems fitting to pick that particular print for them something they can have upon their wall, once they go into there own bedroom and keep as they grow up.

Ordering the print is really simple you just choose the print type you want to purchase, type in the name of your choice then check out - I chose a really simple print but there are other prints in which you can have your child's name and date of birth or you could have a wedding print with all the details of the big day on the print. The website itself is really easy to navigate around so ordering prints and other personalised items could not be any more simple.

Our prints arrived really quickly from ordering and they came really well packaged, in an envelope with do not bend on them. The prints are really good quality, eye-catching and bright which I love, the pictures are exactly as they are shown on the website - the only downside is they don't come already framed so do check before you purchase especially if you are looking for something that is framed already. Having said that frames don't cost that much and you can pick up some decent frames for your print or prints at pretty good prices not only that if you buy your own frame you can match it to the room or where ever you intend to display it.

Overall I love Created by magic and was very impressed with the girl's prints, the company is exactly what it says creating a little bit of personalised magic for everyone. The personalised prints are really reasonably priced, the pictures that I ordered are priced at £15.00 each however other personalised items prices vary check out the website below to find out more.


There is something for everyone over on their website. The prints would make for a perfect christening, birthday, Christmas or newborn baby present. Or if you are just looking for a beautiful personalised picture for your child’s room.

You can find out more about Created by magic over on their website HERE

Created by magic have been kind enough to offer you, my readers, the chance to win a personalised print of your own, you can enter the via Rafflecopter below good luck.

  

a Rafflecopter giveaway

(Please note that all entries will be checked against comments for validation).

The first entry on the Rafflecopter form to leave a comment on the post is mandatory

All other steps in the Rafflecopter form are optional. 

Only one entry form per person is allowed (however, you can tweet with the bonus click entry daily or use the free entry to increase your chances).

This giveaway is for UK residents only.

Once the Rafflecopter picks a winner, I will check if the winner has done what was requested and I will contact them, if they do not reply within 28 days, the prize will be allocated to another person.

The giveaway will begin on the 13/11/17 and will close on 27/11/17 at midnight

Make Your Own Chocolate House

For Christmas this year the boys have asked for a lot of maker sets such as ice cream makers, slushy makers make your own chocolate lollipops I love that the boys are finding their creative sides, but the one thing most of these expensive make your own sets have in common is that the majority of them come with no ingredients meaning they are not just ready to use, however, the Make your own chocolate house comes with everything you need from instructions and moulds to meltable chocolate.

We were sent this lovely set from What2buy4kids  I realised as soon as I opened it that it would be something I would have to do with one of the kids, not all of them as there was one house not only that my two-year-old is far too heavy handed! I had someone on one time with my six-year-old Adam so we decided to spend it making the chocolate house.

On opening the box inside there were two moulds a bag of white chocolate buttons a bag of milk chocolate buttons, instructions a paper hat and a colour your own garden to place the house on when you have finished.

The first job was to melt the chocolate, the instructions state to put it in the microwave for 40 seconds, we did the milk chocolate first it was perfect we set that aside to cool a little before pouring it into the bowl next the white chocolate for some reason these did not melt at all it just went a bit thick and not very runny so I placed the bowl over another bowl with hot water in it this melted it really well.

next, it was time to pop the chocolate in the moulds this was really simple and went very well, then to place into the fridge to set.

The house actually set really well, we left it for around half an hour in the fridge. Once it was set bit by bit Adam started to very carefully pop the chocolate house parts out of the mould unfortunately when he popped one of the side bits out a little bit did break off but this was easily fixed.

Once all the parts had been removed from the mould we warmed up the leftover white chocolate to use to stick the house together, I did think at the time this is not going to be easy but in actual fact it was really simple using my finger I just popped a bit of the warm chocolate on the edges a bit at a time I found it was easiest to do this with the house standing up it fixed together really well then we popped it back in the fridge for ten minutes to fuse together that was it we had a beautiful choc on choc make your own chocolate house!

I was really pleased with the results and so was Adam he had great fun helping to make it. here are a few tips for a successful looking house.

• Melt the white chocolate over a bowl of hot water rather than in a microwave.
• Don't worry if you haven't filled the chocolate to the sides once you have filled all the mould give it a good few taps on the side to even out the chocolate and get rid of the air bubbles it also should fill all the gaps.
• It doesn't take many buttons to stick the house together so you only need to save a very small handful of the white ones to stick it together at the end.
• Last but not least eat it and enjoy it the chocolate is absolutely divine really good quality.

Overall I absolutely love this Make your own chocolate house it has everything you need to get creative with the kids, have fun and for half the price of some of the popular make your own kits around this retails at £12.50 and can be purchased Here at What2Buy4kids  or alternatively you can visit the choc on choc website here this house is available to buy all year round, however, I think it would make a great Christmas gift for kids.

   This choc on choc house was sent to us to review from What2Buy4kids all opinions remain honest and my own.        

Children's five tractors jigsaw puzzle toy from Hape

We were sent some beautiful children's five tractors jigsaw puzzles from Hape toys.

When you first see the jigsaws in the box it doesn't look like much, but don't be misled or don't judge a book by its cover as some might say the simple exterior of these beautifully handcrafted puzzles can only be seen when you open the jigsaw and take them all out of the box, they are nothing like so many of the jigsaws you will see in the shops these days as you remove one tractor another is revealed and so on.

Each tractor piece is meticulously cut from singular or multilayers to uncover more than what you have first seen.

The five tractors jigsaw puzzle has been made to spark a child's imagination and help them to have fun whilst learning at the same time there is a range of the jigsaws available by Hape so if the tractor that we are looking at in this review is not for you there is certainly something out there from Hape that would suit any child.

Tricky tractor jigsaw specifications,

• Product dimensions in cm: 15 x 11,2 x 2,3

• Package Dimensions in cm: 23,2 x 16,3 x 2,

• Material: wood

• Age recommendation: from 2 years

• Number of Parts: 6

Jack is two and this jigsaw was quite hard for him and tested his motor skills, when he was putting it back together it took him quite some time before he was able to fully complete the jigsaw and still needed help, although he didn't get fed up or frustrated with it quite the opposite he was entertained with the tractors lining them up from big to small and playing with them giving them different voices and names he really enjoyed it. The tractors are all different colours which makes them very bright and eye-catching it also makes it harder to loose pieces. I love the fact that these help your child to learn they are beautifully handcrafted and very unique to other toys that are around in the shops. The Tricky Five Tractors Jigsaw gets a big thumbs up from both me and Jack!

• We were sent this lovely five tractors jigsaw puzzle for the purpose of this review all opinions remain honest and my own. 

25 Positive and Appreciative things you should say to children

Being positive is something that is difficult to be all the time as a parent and sometimes when children are naughty you often cant ignore them it is so easy to get into the habit of just telling them off all the time.

It shouldn't be difficult, but it seems to take a lot more thought to praise a child, not because we don't care, but because when they're being good it's easy to enjoy that time, the peace and quiet that we all love I find when they have massive achievements like in school or at one of there clubs I always make a huge fuss of them, but around the home sometimes I am that wrapped up in family life the praise sometimes gets missed when really I should be watching and praising them or giving them positive encouragement in every good thing they do, after all, we all love to be told when we are good at something or made to feel appreciated and that should be no different in our children.

25 Positive and appreciative things you should say to your children,

1. Thank you - so easy, yet often gets forgotten
2. wow, that was so helpful,
3. You are really good at that
4. You make me feel better
5. You always make me smile
6. You have been such a good boy/girl today
7. That was really really kind
8. I'm so proud of you
9. That was a great choice
10. That's a brilliant idea
11. You are amazing at that
12. You make me laugh
13. I believe in you
14. You can do it
15. Well done
16. Your opinion always matters 
17.  Being your mummy/mum/dad is my favorite thing 
18. Its Ok we all make mistakes 
19. You tried your best that's all that matters 
20. You tell the best stories 
21. Wow you were super fast 
22. You will always come first 
23. I love you
24. I Will always love you and never stop 
25. You fill my heart with pride and joy  

Remember if you are positive about Your children generally they will follow your lead and be positive to others such as their friends, family, and people they meet throughout life. Try saying things daily to them and watch their confidence grow it will also help them if they grow up and go through hard times in their life, they will already have the positivity to help them deal with difficult situations.

Has Stranger Danger Been forgotten?

As I waked to the school this morning with the kids I heard one of them say you cant talk to anyone and the other one say i'm not talking to anyone in that game they were talking about there iPad I have always drummed it into them they're not aloud to add just anyone into there games and if some one adds them they they have to show mummy first before accepting them. I repeated to them they should not talk to anyone that they don't know, then came the questions what about kids what about a man with a dog the list went on they didn't seem to understand the concept of not talking to people then I sat back and thought about what I was saying to them if they were to see a policeman they wouldn't know him but if they were lost I would want them to talk to him.

Has stranger Danger been forgotten? I think that the concept behind stranger danger is still there but it needs to be taught in different ways, media campaigns on this subject seems to have slowed right down, the media and in our schools are so hot about teaching Our children about being safe online and being careful what they share and whom they talk to to protect them from online predators, stranger danger or at least the concept of it, on the streets seems to of somewhat been forgotten. Now maybe because over some years this is due to the decline of parents who will actually let there children play out side on the front with there bikes or play on the park that is probably across the way from there home, As parents we all know why we don't want our children playing outside in the street alone or why we don't let them do things that our parents let us do, but ask yourself do your children know? I mean really understand?

I don't agree with the stranger danger alone as I said above stranger danger just doesn't quite sit right anymore because essentially if your child was in a dangerous situation being afraid to talk to people around them could put them in more danger. I believe that teaching your child about dangerous situations in stages makes more sense than the outdated stranger danger message as it can be split into sections and this is how I would teach my own children here are my top tips for keeping them safe you can never be to careful with children.

Avoid making personalised items too obvious, - school bags, packed lunch boxes , book bags when you label them think about where your child's name is going to go put them on the inside of the item rather than on the outside for all too see avoid named t-shirts or football shirts with there full name across the top if a child thinks an adult knows there name already it can give them a sense of trust and the adult come across as more friendly.

Establish a code/secret word, - this is something that I taught my boys a few years ago when they started going to the nursery for after school club we have a secret word and any adult that is approaching them or says they have got to take them home must know the secret word if they don't the boys know not to go with them.

Teach them not to have body secrets, - I personally hate that I have to teach my children this but I have always taught them that their private parts are theirs and only they should touch them if anyone else does they should tell mummy straight the way also if they are made to touch anyone else's they know its wrong and should follow the same rule. they also know that they shouldn't keep secrets its a good way to make sure children are always open about things.

If they are in danger alert someone,  - the obvious of course would be a policeman but of course these are not always to hand so the next best thing I would suggest is to approach a mum with young children generally mums are on the ball or to run in to a shop/shop keeper - most shops will have CCTV these days so the chances are they are going to be safe.

Teach them to fight back, - I would always want my children to know this that if someone was actually trying to take them away or hurt them they should fight back kick, scream, bite whatever it takes to grab peoples attention.

Let others know that they are in danger, - how many times have you walked past a child that is having a meltdown or screaming having a tantrum and you haven't paid a bit of attention to them, teach your children to shout things like he/shes  is a stranger or to shout I want my mum and dad they need to be getting people to pay attention and not just walk on by.

Its food for thought right? I think the age old day of stranger danger is not going to work anymore, but teaching your children in a more complex way but easy for them to understand is going to keep our children safe. the reality of online strangers is still just as important but remember these people walk among us it is just as important to keep teaching them of the real life dangers on our streets and not just forget.    

Little Splashers, Swimmer Teddy Bath Toy & Pop Up Teddy Shower Buddy

Bath time should always be fun for babies and children and there is nothing better than having some great toys to accomplish this we were sent two great bath toys from Hape toys - Swimmer Teddy Bath Toy and the Pop Up Teddy Shower Buddy,

Swimmer Teddy Bath Toy specifications,

• ABS
• Colorful teddy bear wind-up swim toy
• Perfect for use in the bath or at a pool
• Race your little friend around in the water
• Encourages kids to interact and participate with water play
• Recommended for ages 12 months and up

Priced at £12.99 available from amazon The swimmer teddy is the perfect water toy for your little one whether it is for by the pool or in the bath The swimming teddy is brightly eye catching and colourful we think he is very cute too once you have wound him up on his back he swims round and round in circles. which Jack really found very funny and was turning round and round in the bath squealing with excitement the Teddy bear he was also dunking him in and out like the teddy was a diver off the side of the bath. This swimming teddy is very well made and I would imagine it would be to break as he is solid. he is also quite a big bigger than most of the other bath toys that are around making it easier for little hands to hold. We really enjoyed playing with the swimmer bath toy he has been a big hit in our house even though he is aimed at young children my five year old and seven year old both play with this every bath time now. He is an all round enjoyable toy for young children and older ones.

Pop Up Teddy Shower Buddy, 

• ABS
• This little friend pops up and down
• Offers engaging fun for little ones
• Perfect for bath or shower time
• Encourages kids to interact and participate in water fun
• Recommended for ages 12 months and up

Priced at £12.99 from Amazon, this pop up shower buddy is my personal favorite out of the two bath toys, Again this toy is very well made and a lot bigger than the average bath toy. The teddy sits inside the cloud and when its filled with water the teddy bear rises to the top, once lifted out of the water the teddy bear sinks back into the cloud as the water drains out of the multiple holes in the cloud in a shower type motion its almost like magic. Jack was saying the teddy bear is saying boo and asking where the teddy has gone he had great fun playing with this toy laughing and giggling and splashing it into the water as a parent this toy is great for encouragement if your child is afraid of the the shower as it stimulates this motion  and it will make them more confident with water before introducing the shower. The two older ones have been using this toy to wash each others hair and think its really funny they all love this toy its great, stimulating and fun toy well worth its price.

These two fun and fabulous bath toys were sent to us for the purpose of this review all opinions remain honest and my own.

Establishing a Bath Time Routine for Babies and Children

Bath time can be such a bind and quite stressful at times especially if like me you have five children to look after and sort out, however even if I am stressed I try to help them enjoy it as much as possible. From day one with all of the children I have always stuck by a routine I think with children what ever the age establishing a bath time routine for babies and children helps to keep my sanity as a parent and also the kids never resist bath times as they never remember not having a bath so it is a fun time rather than a chore for them.

My personal Bath time routine starts around five pm and ends just after seven, I start with the youngest two then bath Jack my two year old son and then the oldest two have a a bath together.

Key tips for bath time, 

Preparation, 

• Make sure you have everything you need organised before you start pajamas, nappies, talcum powder, towels any lotions that you use, and dressing gowns if they wear them - if it is cold I usually just pop the towels over the radiator.
• Make sure you have hot water, sounds ridiculous but in our house we have solar panels and if there is no sun there is no hot water so I need to turn it on the amount of times I have forgotten to do this is unbelievable! 
• If your child has bath toys that are not stored in the bathroom make sure you have fetched the toy they would like to play with

   Safety, 

• Water temperature should always be tested to avoid burns. Place the top of your hand in the running water to be sure it’s not too hot or too cold, since this part of your hand is more sensitive than your palm.
• Never leave a child unattended in the bath. It is best to be within arm’s reach to avoid accidents. 
• Wipe up any water spills as soon as possible and be sure that the soap isn’t left on the floor to avoid slips.
• Always use slip-resistant mats inside and outside of the bath or shower.
• Use bath time equipment for babies and toddlers, such as a baby bath or safety seats to stop them moving around in such a big space.

Make bath time fun,

• If you children have a lot of bath toys rotate bath toys so children don’t get tired of the same ones.
• Bath toys do not have to be expensive, give them a plastic cup or an old shampoo bottle they make fantastic water shooters.
• You could buy some bath crayons or some bath foam and see what shapes and animals they can mold them into.

Personal care,

• Encourage children to wash them selves even if they are little and not doing it correctly the younger they try the easier it will get as they get older.
• If you have younger children use props to teach them how to wash themselves for instance a doll or a bath character get them to was the toy how they should wash them selves its a good way to get them to learn.

fear of the water, 

• Some children can be afraid of the water or just afraid of the noise of the bath filling you can reduce this fear by filling the bath before the child gets anywhere near the bathroom.
• You could try encouraging children to put there faces in or near the water and blowing bubbles - of course make sure they are always supervised.
• Sometimes television and imitating things being pulled down the drain can make children be frightened this might happen to them, you could try getting them out of the bath and getting them to watch the water go down also you could put a toy in the bath to show them this isnt going to happen, also remind them they are a lot bigger than the plug hole 
• If they are still frightened or you having trouble getting them in, you could get in with them sometimes having mummy or daddy in the bath with them is enough reassurance for them to start enjoying bath time as they should do.

Bath times can be as we all know hard work but enjoy your child's bath time make it fun even when things are tough, children grow up and become more independent and these are the times you will look back on and smile about! 

  

Walk-A-Long-Snail - Wooden baby Pull along toy

We received this beautifully crafted walk-A-long-Snail from Hape. It is a baby wooden pull along toy, It also has a shell full of fun meaning its shell is cleverly crafted into a shape sorter. 

The Snail is bright and colourful, and comes with a square, triangle and circle that can be pushed into the right shapes on one side of the shell, then your child can use the other side of the shell to take them out and start all over again. 

The shell itself can be removed from the snail when your child is pulling it along the floor to ease the load or you can leave the shell on and as your child pulls the snail the shell goes round in a circle with the wheels, which I personally think makes it that bit more fun. The toy is aimed at promoting spatial awareness and fine motor skills during playtime

Jack loved this toy, as soon as I removed the packaging from arond the box that the snail had been delivered in Jack was jumping up and down on the spot drawn to the snails bright colours, he was examining every part of the toy, the first thing he did was took it for a walk around the living room - he said "look mummy he has wibbly wobbly eyes" the eyes on the snail wobble as its being pulled along the tail also moves.

The next thing he did was sat on the floor with it to work out how the shape sorter works, Jack is two and could easily work out where each shape went but played with it over and over again. He was also interested in trying to guess what colour each shape was. 

Jack has played with this snail a lot since we received it which is a good indicator that it keeps children engaged, he really loves that you can take him for a walk and he likes that you can fill his shell with different things not just the shapes he came with.

Overall we love the Walk-A-long-Snail it is a quality made children's wooden toy which is great if you have children that are rough or heavy handed, this would make a great toy for any child's Christmas list this year and is reasonably priced at £24.99 available to buy now from any Argos store.  

This fun walk-A-long-snail was sent to me for the purpose of this review all opinions expressed are honest and my own.

A Mums Guide - Coping with kids with a stomach bug

After the last few days of having a house full of sickly children and going through copious amounts of disinfectant, cleaning cloths and washing powder.  It seemed fitting to write about coping with kids with a stomach bug. Sometimes even though it seems simple when you have one child or five children being sick the task can seem massively over whelming from where do you start and what to do next listed are my top ten tips.

1.  Cleaning, Keep stocked up there is nothing worse than a child falling ill and you have nothing to clear up with, keep that cleaning cupboard full i'm talking disinfectant a cheap packet of cloths carpet cleaner a good air freshener that nutrilises smells and I always keep some disposable plastic gloves this some in handy for everything.
2. Have a designated bowl or bowls, you don't want your child being sick into your best baking bowl so set aside a bowl or a bucket specifically for stomach bugs. 
3. Stock up on paracetamol, most children will get a high temperature with a stomach bug I know not always will they be able to take it or keep it down if they are being sick but usually the high temperature comes before the sickness and carries on until well after your child has finished being sick it will make them feel better, help them to get some sleep and get rid of any aches and pains they might have.
4. Drinks, The last thing you want is the whole house with a stomach bug so try and contain it if you can with little ones they like to pick up juice cups and drink from each others cups try and be really strict and only let them drink from there own cup.
5. Bath time, this is not always possible if its the middle of the night but as soon as you can get them into a nice warm bath this will help calm them down and also it will wash away all those nast germs!
6. Hand washing, you cant wash them enough when dealing with a sickness bug the last thing you want is to be transporting the virus round the house I also always have a good hand sanitizer which kills all the germs 
7. Vitamins, this time of the year is a good time to give your child vitamins even the best eating kids can be lacking some key vitamins and this time of year with all the bugs flying around it is important to keep immune levels high - it isn't going to hurt to give your child a multi - vitamin a day.
8. Rest, having a sickness bug is absolutely exhausting if your little ones need to sleep let them while they are sleeping they are healing.
9. Re-hydration, it doesn't matter if your child isn't eating much food they will eat when they want to but it is really important to make sure they drink plenty of fluids to stop them from getting dehydrated 
10. You should contact your Doctor or Health care profesional if

Your child is repeatedly vomiting and is unable to hold down fluids

You think they're dehydrated – symptoms of dehydration can include a dry mouth, crying without producing tears, urinating less or not wetting many nappies, and drowsiness

Their vomit is green or contains blood

They have been vomiting for more than a day or two

Toddlers and Tantrums - Terrible Twos

You Know when I spoke about Adam and his terrible twos  and Toddler Tantrums a few years ago now, I never thought I would have a child that was worse than him, Well I say worse but Jack is clever and a big boy, so big his feet are a size 11 already and he hasn't even started school yet he is extremely tall for his age, so the health visitor tells me and heavy too, but he isn't inactive he is a very active little boy he loves the outdoors, loves to be kicking a football he really is what people would define as a typical boy.

Because he is so tall and so big, i'm only 5ft2, I really struggle to pick him up, or if hes sitting on the floor it takes me all my time and strength to get him up, hes still a baby really and of course he still asks and wants like every child of his age to be picked up and cuddled from time to time.

His temper is beyond me, he can sulk for what feels like forever and pushchairs, well we bought him a brand new mamas and papas strollers, so when there is two of us one can push the twins and one can push Jack, however Jack is so big he can stand up on the floor when he puts his feet down off the foot rest so if you let go of the pushchair for a moment he is physically walking with the pushchair strapped to his back, he is honestly like the incredible hulk.

Jack also no knows boundaries with his brothers, he is forever snatching and taking things off them winding them up calling them babies, you see for a two year old he talks extremely well I know most mums probably say that about there children but he is my best talker out of the boys and so damn clever it gets me in trouble because bribery he does not forget ...., I of course only resort to this in extreme cases all of the time. Sometimes with the five children it is the only way I would ever get out of the door in the mornings.

Jack thinks he is two going on five it is a battle of the wills between myself and him and between him and Adam you see because Liam has Autism he has never tried to boss any of them around, its like Adam is the oldest child, however Jack is doing his best to try and steel Adams title from him and sometimes he does succeed poor Adam does not stand a chance when Jack physically picks him up off the floor and throws him or pins him down he is so much heavier than him.

He has a habit at the moment of laying on the floor and saying he cant get up or pretending he is stuck on something and cant get out also if you mention any sort of creature animal, insect or other he don't like it!

We recently tried potty training because he is so big we are getting to the point where nappies are getting too small and there are not any bigger sizes that fit, he was good when he first started but then the novelty started to wear off and we were having accident after accident and he was only going to the toilet because you pass the kitchen on the way thinking he needed to eat something every time he went which of course I was never going to let him do that, which in turn would turn into a full blown tantrum and me dragging him by his feet back into the living room, because I could not pick him up.  

Jack thinks he is so independent, I honestly hate the year of a two year old it is definitely a battle everyday, A battle of wills and lets face it parent vs toddler who can out smart who, I like to think I always win but this is probably not always the case as i think with any child of any age you have to pick your battles some are just not worth getting worked up about ...... My advice for any mum with a two year old is to take a deep breath remember the phases don't last forever even though it seems like it sometimes, Children grow up quickly but if you are still struggling here are my Top Tips.

1. Ignore, Ignore, Ignore, a lot of tantrums is for attention and because your child cant get what they want try where possible and if its safe to ignore them eventually they will realise they wont get what they want with there behavior 
2. Give them space if they want to sulk in the corner at the bottom of the garden let them sometimes like anyone they need to think and time to reflect.
3. Give them a hug sometimes a bit of hugging time is enough to distract them from the situation although I know we don't want to promote bad behavior but they need to let go of there emotions.
4. Distract them this is my favorite tip always have something in the bag a toy some food a drink anything that makes them forget about what they wanted, lets face it kids can turn on and off emotions like a tap.
5. Speak calmly shouting can often lead to a battle of the wills and your child will probably dig there heels in even more and scream more this way you may even be able to reason with them!

What are you tips for toddlers? Do you manage to stay calm? leave me a comment below I look forward to reading them? 

Halloween safety tips 2015

This week I am going to be showing you some of the best of this year Halloween ideas from the shops some top tips recipes and game ideas so stay with with me for some great ideas!




Trick and treating is great fun and over recent years has become more and more popular in the UK but it can also be dangerous like anything safety is key, but you can still have lots of fun whilst doing it, here are my top tips for Trick and treating safety.

Halloween safety tips 

• Trick or treat at familiar houses or houses that are decorated and there are lots 
• Carry a flashlight with fresh batteries after dark.
• make sure you carry a mobile phone or some who is in the group is carrying one
• Always trick or treat in groups, accompanied by an adult.
• Stay on the pavements and in well lit streets and only cross where it is safe to do so make sure you walk not run.
• Don't trample through flower beds and gardens.
• Watch out for open flames in pumpkins.
• be aware of your surroundings.
• Only visit well lit houses. Don't stop at dark houses.
• Don't enter any houses unless you know the people.
• Carry a spare Halloween bag/carrier bag, in case yours breaks or you fill your original one.
• Don't approach unfamiliar pets and animals.
• Always watch for cars reversing or turning.
• Never accept lifts from strangers.
• Respect other people and their property.
• Be polite and say "thank you".
• Don't eat any sweets or treats until it's inspected for tampering under bright lights.
• Avoid treats that is homemade unless you know the person that has made it.
• Small children should not be allowed hard candy they may choke on.
• Report any suspicious or criminal activity to the police.
• Consider having a party instead of Trick or Treating.

Costume Safety 

• Wear flame retardant costumes. In light of the accidents that happened last year all costumes have been made fire retardant and will all have the safety labels displayed make sure the costume has this before purchase avoid buying them from unknown, online retailers and if you must check that there costumes are safe. 
• Make sure your Halloween costume is colourfast so the colour doesn't run onto your other clothes if it rains.
• Apply reflective tape to Halloween costumes or make sure you are bright enough to be seen.
• Avoid big masks. Use make-up instead.
• Use only hypoallergenic and non-toxic makeup.
• Wear comfortable, practical shoes.
• Double tie your shoelaces so you don't trip.
• Keep your costume and wig away from candles.
• Don't carry fake swords, guns, knives or similar accessories that look authentic. Make sure they're flexible and cannot harm anyone.

Remember this Halloween stay safe and have lots of fun!

Ben and Holly's elf and fairy Party Time #recipes

Last week I told you all about us becoming bloggers for Ben and holly's Little kingdom, This week we have tried out some of the recipe's from Nanny Plums magical cookbook and also added some extras of our own to have our very own magical elf and fairy party.





We made the magic fairy cakes and turned them into mushrooms -

Ingredients: 

• 100g caster sugar 
• 100g soft butter 
• 100g self raising flour 
• tsp vanilla extract 
• 2 eggs, beaten 
• icing sugar and butter edible cake decorations 
• jam and 12 cake cases

Method;

1. Preheat the oven to 180oC or gas mark 4. 
2. Mix the butter and sugar together until soft and fluffy. Now stir in the eggs a little at a time.
3. Sift the flour, then slowly stir it into the mixture. When it has all been added, divide the mixture between the cake cases.
4. Bake in the oven for about 20 minutes or until the cakes are golden and firm. Allow them to cool.
5. cut a small hole in the top of your cakes and fill the space with your favourite jam.
6. Then cover it up with a piece of cake.
7. Now decorate your cakes however you like, we decided to turn ours into mushrooms and also made some butterfly cakes with some butter icing as well as some hidden jam.

We also made some Gaston the ladybird biscuits, we made our own very simple sweeter version but on the website there is an idea for a savoury ladybird snacks.

Ingredients; 

• Chocolate Digestive biscuits
• Butter cream 
• strawberries 
• white icing 
• dark icing pen

Method;

1. Spread the butter icing on to the biscuit.
2. Halve and quarter the strawberries and place the quarters onto the biscuit so it looks like the ladybird wings are open.
3. use a round cutter to make a round piece for the ladybirds head if you don't have a cutter simply just use a knife.
4. Using the white icing make two round circles on its head for the eyes.
5. Then using the dark icing pen make the dots for the ladybirds spots and give the eyes two dots in the middle of the white icing to complete Gaston! 
6. keep refrigerated until ready to serve.

  We also made some magical fairy wands and some heart shaped biscuits

 Ingredients; 

• 100g butter.
• 60g golden caster sugar.
• 100g plain flour.
• 60g fine semolina.
• sugar to sprinkle.

Method;

1. Pre-heat the oven 150C/300F/gas mark 2.
2. Put the butter and sugar into a bowl, mix them together until they make a smooth paste.
3. Sift the flour into the bowl.
4. Add the semolina then stir the mixture well
5. When the mixture wont stir anymore use your hands and knead it, the dough will be ready when there are no bits left on the side of the bowl.
6. Sprinkle the top with flour so the dough don't stick to the side then roll it out with the rolling pin.
7. Use you biscuit cutter to cut the dough in to shapes.
8. Lay shapes onto a baking tray lined with grease proof paper.
9. Bake the biscuits for 18-20 minutes.
10. Then remove from the oven and place them on a wire rack to cool.
11. now is the fun part decorate them anyway you would like you can be as creative as possible the children will love it.
12. To get the sticks inside the biscuits use a sharp skewer or cocktail stick to make the hole.  

We only made the sweeter of the items but there are ideas for savoury snacks as well over on the Ben & Holly website there are also party thank you notes, create your own head dress and lots more all available to download for free! Why not pop over and take a look at the great activities available Here and take a look at Nanny Plums magical cookbook, don't forget you can tweet your ideas using #ElfandFairyparty.




Last but not least no don't forget your magic jelly!