Category Archives: Children and Childcare

Cancer, Charity, Charity & CSR, Children and Childcare, News

South London family supports Children with Cancer UK following son’s diagnosis

A family from South London is supporting leading childhood cancer charity, Children with Cancer UK, to help raise awareness following son Stanley’s cancer diagnosis.

Stanley Thompson, from Welling, London, was diagnosed with low-risk neuroblastoma,  a type of cancer that develops in early nerve cells, in December 2022, when he was just one-year-old.

One week before his first birthday, Stanley’s parents, Victoria and Bryan, noticed that Stanley was showing signs of mobility issues. After being advised that it could be a viral infection and his mobility continued to decline, Victoria and Bryan took Stanley to the hospital where he spent first birthday having tests.

An MRI detected a tumour on Stanley’s spine and within 12 hours, Stanley underwent surgery to relieve some of the pressure on his spine and was diagnosed with low-risk neuroblastoma.

Victoria comments: “You never believe any child, let alone your child, will be diagnosed with cancer. Our whole world was turned upside down when we heard that our little boy had been diagnosed with cancer just one day after his first birthday. Stanley’s diagnosis all happened so quickly, which has been incredibly hard to process, but for somebody so little, he has shown more strength and resilience than any person we know.”

Neuroblastoma is a cancer which develops from nerve cells, called neural crest cells, which are involved in the development of the nervous system and other tissues. It mostly affects babies and children under the age of five, and around 100 children per year are diagnosed in the UK.

After four intense rounds of chemotherapy and additional surgery to have his central line removed, Stanley rang the end of treatment bell in June 2023 Stanley will continue to have MRIs every three months to monitor his health.

Children with Cancer UK is sharing the inspiring story of Stanley as part of its new awareness feature on neuroblastoma.

The charity’s ‘12 Groups of Cancer’ campaign which launched earlier this year is a new series of short films which aim to help raise awareness and understanding of the 12 groups of childhood and young adult cancer types. The videos give a unique insight into the cancer type, and the information and support parents need when their child has been diagnosed.

Victoria continues: “Stanley has been through so much and we’re incredibly proud of how strong he’s been and the recovery he has made. Since having his central line removed, Stanley is now able to enjoy all the things a little boy should be able to like swimming and is now able to attend nursery which he loves.

“As a family, we continue to worry every day and will always pray for positive news when we visit the hospital every few months. We’re sharing our story in the hope that it raises awareness and the understanding of childhood cancer, and highlights the importance of new scientific research to help beat this devastating disease.”

Children with Cancer UK is one of the leading national children’s charities working towards a world where every child survives cancer.

Christiana Ogunbote, Head of Research at Children with Cancer UK, added: “We would like to thank Stanley’s family for sharing their inspirational story, and helping us to increase understanding of the profound impact it can have on young people and their families.

“As a charity, it’s our mission to fund vital research into cancers affecting children and young adults, support families and raise awareness. Our new 12 Groups of Cancer films are an important part of our ongoing awareness work, and we hope they help parents feel better prepared and informed during their child’s cancer journey.”

Survival rates for children’s cancers are improving. Fifty years ago, three-quarters of children diagnosed with cancer did not survive; today more than 8 in 10 children diagnosed with cancer in the UK survive. However, around 4,200 children and young adults are diagnosed with cancer each year in the UK, and cancer is one of the leading causes of death for young people.

To watch Children with Cancer UK’s ’12 Groups of Cancer’ campaign film on neuroblastoma, visit Children with Cancer UK – YouTube

For more information about Children with Cancer UK, go to www.childrenwithcancer.org.uk

Children and Childcare

Ahead of children’s activities week expert shares  5 benefits of kids being active & ditching devices

The benefits children can derive by getting off their devices and being active have been outlined by a leading research psychologist.

Dr Gummer, who specialises in child development, said activities can help boost mental and physical wellbeing, aid sleep and improve young people’s social skills.

Her comments come ahead of National Children’s Activities Week which runs from the 13th to the 19th May. This year’s series of events are being backed by X Factor winner and former mum of the year, Sam Bailey.

Thousands will be taking part in the UK’s largest annual celebration of children’s activities hosted by What’s On 4 Kids and the event is now in its fifth year.

Explaining its significance, Sam Willoughby, Chief Executive of What’s On 4 Kids and Founder of Children’s Activities Week, said: “Getting our children active again should be a major point of focus for parents, carers, and our society as a whole.

“Children’s Activities Week highlights the extraordinary mental and physical benefits of activities, classes and clubs for children and their families, as well as championing the passion and creativity of the activity providers themselves.

“It’s an extraordinary effort to create and offer activities that inspire and engage children in the right ways, and this week celebrates exactly that”.

As well as contributing to the wellbeing of children across the nation, Children’s Activities Week is playing a much bigger role in fostering impactful change.

“CAW supports the incredible work of Caudwell Children, dedicated to increasing equal access to opportunities for disabled and autistic children”, continued Ms Willoughby.

“All funds raised from Children’s Activities Week will be donated to the charity, which provides a range of services including autism assessments, powered wheelchairs, sensory equipment, employment mentoring and much more.

“We are proud to be supporting Caudwell’s vital mission, all while nurturing key skills and development opportunities for children”.

To find out more or to get involved, please visit: www.childrensactivitiesweek.co.uk

 

Here Dr Gummer outlines the five main benefits:

 

  1. Physical Health Benefits:
  • Regular physical activity is vital for young people’s overall health and development. Engaging in activities such as sports, outdoor play, and exercise helps to strengthen muscles and bones, improve cardiovascular health, and maintain a healthy weight.
  • Being active also reduces the risk of obesity, type 2 diabetes, and other chronic health conditions that are increasingly affecting young people today. By prioritising physical activity young children can lay the foundation for a lifetime of good health.
  1. Mental Wellbeing Enhancement:
  • Disconnecting from digital devices and spending time outdoors or engaging in physical activities can significantly boost mental wellbeing.
  • Outdoor activities, in particular, provide exposure to natural light and fresh air, which have been shown to elevate mood and reduce symptoms of stress, anxiety, and depression.
  • Physical activity stimulates the release of endorphins, often referred to as “feel-good” hormones, promoting feelings of happiness and relaxation. This natural mood enhancement is crucial for young people’s overall mental health.
  1. Social Interaction and Communication Skills
  • Being active and off devices encourages young people to interact with others in real-life settings, fostering essential social skills and building strong relationships.
  • Activities such as team sports or group outdoor adventures promote teamwork, cooperation, and communication, which are invaluable skills for personal and professional success later in life.
  • Face-to-face interactions also help young individuals develop empathy, emotional intelligence, and the ability to navigate social situations confidently.
  1. Creativity and Imagination
  • Limiting screen time and engaging in active play allows young people’s imaginations to flourish and creativity to thrive.
  • Outdoor exploration and unstructured play stimulate curiosity and problem-solving skills, as children are encouraged to invent games, explore their surroundings, and make discoveries on their own
  1. Healthy Sleep Patterns
  • Being active during the day and limiting device use in the evening helps regulate the body’s internal clock and promotes better sleep quality.
  • Establishing healthy sleep habits from a young age is crucial for cognitive function, mood regulation, and overall wellbeing, enabling young individuals to feel more rested, alert, and ready to tackle the challenges of each day.
Awards, Children and Childcare, News

Specialist baby and toddler air purifier from Solenco UK wins prestigious award

Air treatment and lifestyle technology specialist Solenco UK has been presented with a Loved by Parents Platinum award in the category Best Nursery Innovation for its Purification Pal air purifier. The specialist air purifier was designed specifically for babies and infants.

The Loved by Parents awards are one of the largest parenting awards programmes worldwide. To win an award, products are rigorously tested by a team of parents and little ones.

With a four-stage purification system that captures up to 99.975% of particles and allergens, the Purification Pal helps protect babies and children from respiratory illnesses and aids restful sleep.

The Purification Pal removes particulate matter (PM2.5), VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds), airborne bacteria, viruses, dust and pollen from the air. With whisper-quiet operation (25dB) and features such as a night-light, timer and four speed settings, the specialised air purifier contributes to a safer and more calming atmosphere for infants to sleep in.

“It’s normal for children to get as many as eight cold viruses a year which can be disruptive for their sleep and impact the whole family. Having a solution that continuously removes harmful particles from the air reduces their chances of catching bugs and developing asthma or allergies.”

explains Trevor Brewer, Director at Solenco UK.

“We are delighted to win this prestigious award for the Purification Pal. We launched the air purifier in the UK to provide a solution to help parents and their children. As a parent or carer, using an air purifier in your child’s room gives you confidence that you’re giving them the best start in life.”

With four air cycles completed in an hour and a preliminary filter, H13 True HEPA filter, Activated Carbon filter and UV light, the Purification Pal gives parents and carers reassurance that their child is breathing clean and healthy air*. Solenco’s Purification Pal is energy efficient (running at just 30-45w) and each air filter has 4320 hours of usage, helping families keep running costs as low as possible.

The air purifier is compact and lightweight, and comes with reusable animal fun face stickers to decorate the appliance’s faceplate, so that children can create their own lovable Purification Pal. The product has launched in the UK after achieving success in the South African market, where it gained a seal of approval from the South African Allergy Foundation.

“Our Purification Pal is designed to protect child health, and other great features like the low noise output, night-light and fun reusable stickers make it a brilliant addition to a nursery or bedroom as the child grows up,” says Trevor.

Solenco’s Purification Pal is available on Amazon for £69.99. For more information, please visit www.solenco.uk.

*Four air cycles based on a room size of up to 10m²

Child Development, Childcare, Children and Childcare, Education, Education News, Healthcare, Mental Health, News

Major Study Reveals Skills Children Need to Navigate an Uncertain Future

Parents value ‘soft skills’ over ‘hard skills’ to future-proof their children’s wellbeing, new research reveals.

  • 38% cited resilience and the ability to cope through change as most important
  • 38% are most concerned with their children developing interpersonal and social skills 
  • Only 29% listed maths and data analysis as a key skill
  • Working parents aged 55+ believe resilience and the ability to cope is most valuable (49%), while parents aged 18-34 place most emphasis on imagination, creativity and problem solving (32%)

A survey of over 3,000 working parents has revealed that in a world of rapidly evolving technology and AI, parents want their children to develop life skills over those that are technical or academic.

The findings formed part of Bright Horizons’ UK annual Modern Families Index survey and found that parents today are acutely aware they are preparing their children for an unpredictable future – and a world of jobs that don’t yet exist.

To counter these growing concerns and fears for their children’s mental health, parents are placing greater importance on life skills such as resilience and ability to cope – above technical skills such as maths and IT.

 

One parent quoted in the report revealed: “Having interpersonal skills and resilience helps her to understand when she should say no to something. She will live in a world where no one will ever be able to switch off. She needs to be able to create boundaries and show her worth at work so as to not be overlooked by AI.”

Rather than simply preparing for school or for a specific career path, parents recognise their children need to be prepared for life, with the confidence and motivation to flourish, whatever the circumstances.

 

Caroline Wright, Director of Early Childhood at Bright Horizons UK commented: “These findings amplify the importance of the uniquely holistic educational approach practised in our nurseries. There is a rapidly growing need for parents to feel their child’s emotional development is being supported as they mature, so by introducing the concept of positive mental health from an early age, we can help children feel safe and secure and be open to learning. 

“Our Nurture ApproachTM places equal emphasis on children’s emotional wellbeing, as well as practical and academic skills, and this provides the foundations for children to reach their full potential – preparing them for life in an ever-changing world.” 

 

Further data shows parents seek support and guidance through their employers on developing children’s emotional and interpersonal skills in their parenting. This is evident through those utilising Bright Horizons’ Work+Family Solutions ‘Speak to an Expert’ service. Almost half of employees using the provision were seeking advice on young people’s resilience, wellbeing and helping their children manage emotions.

 

 

About Bright Horizons 

In our nurseries, the Bright Horizons Nurture Approach recognises the individual needs of each child, and focuses on promoting confidence, wellbeing and a genuine love for learning. Based on extensive pedagogical theory and the latest neuroscientific research, our approach is based on the premise that emotional resilience and wellbeing is just as important as other early childhood foundational skills, such as counting and literacy. It also focuses on the significance of the adult role as educators, and the importance of secure attachments between children, families and the key person.

Bright Horizons Work+Family Solutions provides best in class practical, wellbeing and developmental solutions, supporting employers and employees with the holistic combination of work and family. With over 400 clients in the UK, and more than 1,300 globally, the company provides a full range of supports and acts as a trusted partner, provider, and advisor on employer strategies to meet companies’ objectives. This plays a key part in attracting, engaging, and retaining talented people for their clients and the bespoke services address the practical, wellbeing and cultural needs of organisations and individuals.

Children and Childcare, Health, Mental Health, Wellbeing News

The Special Christmas Toy Aiming To Help Those Struggling This Festive Season

IT’s the most magical time of the year – and the season most children look forward to more than most.

But for some children and teenagers and their loved ones , Christmas can also present huge challenges.

A report by The Children’s Society estimates half a million children are worried about their feelings: but they’re not asking anyone for help.

Mental health expert and author Lynn Crilly says these “disturbing” findings underline the importance of early intervention – and in securing help before things reach crisis point.

And Lynn, who has supported her own daughter Samantha through an eating disorder, OCD and mental ill health, says Christmas can be a bittersweet time for many young people and their families.

She said: “The reality is that some children will find Christmas a struggle and for those who might be experiencing mental ill health or an eating disorder, it can be a real challenge. What makes it harder is that many services which offer support aren’t as readily available as they are at other times of the year. Schools and clubs close as well, which for some young people can be a really important support network.”

Lynn’s own concerns about the struggles some children are facing has inspired her to develop and release a new teddy bear called the TroubleMuncher – that helps young people “cuddle” their fears away.

Through play writing or verbal communicationLynn and Samantha, who helped design the toy, appeared on TV earlier this year to talk about the benefits the toy can bring.

The toy comes with a notepad, and kids who own one are encouraged to write down what’s troubling them then pop the note into a rucksack on the bear’s back.

The bear is also linked to a free to download app, which lets the child communicate directly with the TroubleMuncher bear.

In the app an animated version of the bear listens to the problem and then munches their troubles away.Lynn said: “It encourages children to express their feelings and to communicate because a lot of them now are becoming quite introverted and losing the confidence in physically socialising and feel that they can’t share their troubles.”

Daughter Samantha added: “Many children don’t find it easy to say how they feel so they’ll put the thought in there. Then when they leave for school, the thought will be there for their parents to come and look at and it can help to be the first step towards them getting support.

Samantha has also penned a poem to explain how the bear can help. It reads: “When your head is overflowing, with all the thoughts and worrying, the Trouble Muncher will be there, for you to write down and share, as it munches them away, allowing you to have a clearer brighter day.”

To learn more, please visit: www.lynncrilly.com 

Book Releases, Books, Child Development, Children and Childcare, News

That’s Calm – A New Children’s Guided Meditation Book

Author Chris Dixon has launched his his latest book.  ‘That’s Calm’ is a gentle guided meditation story book aimed at young children to help them to not only destress and relax, but also guide them to a better mental health wellbeing, in a world that puts too many pressures and stresses on our younger people.

This wonderful resource for children can prove to be a helpful tool for children to manage their stress levels, deal with anxiety as well as improve their overall emotional wellbeing.

 

Available in Multiple Formats

The book is available in several formats, including digital e-book and audiobook which is narrated by the talented Simon Wells, it even comes with a file for the background music which also allows you to do your own narration. Ideal for classrooms, nurseries and at home. The story is designed to engage the imagination of its readers and listeners whilst taking them on a calming journey, shedding their anxieties and allowing them to find a relaxed, stress-free state.

To find out more or to purchase this book please see here https://thatsokay.co.uk/products/thats-calm-childrens-guided-meditation-digi
tal-ebook-colouring-sheets-and-audio-book

Accompanying Colouring Sheets.

In addition to the book, there are also several colouring sheets to accompany it that are related to the story. Colouring can be not only a creative activity but also therapeutic activity and complements the overall experience of ‘That’s Calm.’

About the Author

Chris Dixon has written several books on mental wellbeing, aimed at young children, teenagers, and adults after going through mental health problems himself.  Chris firmly believes that empowering young people is key to making the world a better place to live in,  and is passionate about helping children develop the life skills needed now and for the future – putting them in good stead for an emotionally well balanced and happy life from childhood through to adulthood.

Chris’s books have had a positive impact on people’s lives, helping them deal with emotions, tackle mental health stigma and overall wellbeing.

‘That’s Calm’ –  a guided meditation book for children is no exception, and will help children who have stress and anxiety issues to deal with them now whilst helping them to develop a better mental wellbeing that will stand them in good stead for years to come – and a perfect Christmas Gift.

Children and Childcare, Entertainment, News, Social Media

“Crackpot” Egg Crack Challenge “a step too far”, says former reality TV star

Former Made in Chelsea star and managing director of influencer marketing agency, Disrupt, Stevie Johnson, has urged parents and social media influencers to quit the ‘Egg Crack Challenge’ which is currently taking TikTok by storm.

The ex-Bafta award-winning reality TV celebrity says he’s concerned that children may potentially be hurt or confused as parents, and others, crack egg on kids’ heads.

Johnson, who has more than 230,000 followers on X (formerly Twitter), 295,000 on Instagram and 15,000 on Threads, describes the controversial craze as “almost a betrayal of children.”

Steve Johnson

Speaking on BBC Radio Five Live Breakfast today (Thursday August 31st), he said the egg crack challenge was not worth it “for a few likes on social media.”

Johnson, who starred in Made in Chelsea for seven series, adds: “For little children whose brains are still developing there’s potentially damage that could be done by cracking open an egg on their heads. Many won’t understand what’s really happening, and are clearly upset in the videos. Our responsibility is to make our children feel safe.

“My wife and I have a 14-month-old baby and there is absolutely no way that we would take part in this crackpot challenge. It’s simply a step too far simply to get a few likes on social media.

“I would urge parents, and influencers, and anyone else thinking about doing this challenge to stop, to think, and to do something more worthwhile on their social media posts.”

 

Johnson, who is a leading voice in influencer marketing, said social media challenges were not necessarily dreamt up by influencers, but tended to go viral because of peer pressure, algorithms which feed engagement and increased follower counts.

 

Johnson’s London-based agency Disrupt makes brands famous by creating cut-through social and influencer campaigns and activating their influencer strategies.

He warns: “Influencers need to be careful. It’s very hard to build an audience over time that trusts you and is highly engaged. Doing something like this, which can be seen as too controversial, can ensure that very quickly, overnight, you can lose the trust and support of that audience.

“If you lose trust, then you’ll lose brand deals and you’ll lose your influence, and possibly your livelihood.”

Children and Childcare, News, Travel

5 leisure activities for kids when visiting England

Travelling with kids might be strenuous at times, especially when they get tired and start being sassy; of course, children and teens too are easily bored by anything, which might make you feel like going home too. But travelling has plenty of benefits for their development, and their views broaden each time they encounter something new. 

Understanding why kids act differently when far away from home is crucial for helping them better adapt to new environments. It’s expected that they feel overwhelmed by all the unfamiliar noise of a new city, but handling the situation means you need to remain composed and comfort them. 

One way to encourage them to be less stressed is to do plenty of fun activities. And if you plan to take a journey around England, here are some interesting places where your kids can enjoy their time playing while learning. 

 

Exploring London 

The first and most entertaining place is, of course, London. The city is famous for its rich history. You can explore many museums, but other tourist attractions will impress your kids the most. Here’s some places you could consider visiting:

  • The Tower of London;
  • The British Museum;
  • The Science Museum;
  • The London Eye;
  • The Natural History Museum;
  • A London Underground trip;
  • Buckingham Palace; 
  • Hamley’s Toy Store on Regent Street
Children having fun at the science museum in London

However, you should be prepared for the city to be a little crowded, especially during summer. So, you may want to leave your car somewhere safe but easy to reach, so booking a Stansted parking lot will make it easy for you to walk around as your luggage is safe.

The famous red buses will amaze your kids, and a tour with the bus is affordable, so if you want to show them around while sitting and taking a few minutes, this is the perfect opportunity for a break. 

On the other hand, if your kids enjoy more extreme activities, you can take them to the Slide at the ArcelorMittal Orbit in London. This is the UK’s tallest sculpture, and it has 178 metres and 12 twists that will definitely scare and tire your kids so much they might ask for a second time on the slide. 

 

Having fun in Leicester 

If you want your kids to have fun and learn many about science, a good place to visit is the National Space Centre in Leicester. With the UK’s largest planetarium and an impressive collection of museums, educational centres and galleries, the National Space Centre is every kid’s dream. Some interesting activities include checking out real rockets, participating in a space simulation and trying out over 150 interactive exhibits. 

What else? If you want to introduce them into different cultures, you can go to the Golden Mile, where there’s the most prominent spot of the Asian community in the city. You can eat delicious Indian meals and even take some spices home to cook special foods. The authentic sweets will also be great for the kids to expand their tastes. 

 

Touring Cambridge 

 

Cambridge is the perfect place for your kids if they’re into sciences and technologies. Along with one of the best universities in the world, Cambridge also has enjoyable sports for youngsters interested in these subjects. If you’re around London and want to travel by train, you can leave your car at a Heathrow airport parking spot. 

For example, the Centre for Computing History has many old and new exhibits your kid can play with. For example, they can see how computers and gamers were back in the early sixties, and some are even functional, meaning they can fully explore them. The ticket is around £10, but it’s worth seeing how much technology has changed. 

 

Strolling around Hampshire 

If you’ve got little kids and want to get them busy, take them to Hampshire, where the Peppa Pig World is. With all their favourite characters and themed activities, your children will make the most beautiful memories. There are many types of rides they can experience, such as the following:

  • The Grampy Rabbit’s Sailing Club;
  • Peppa’s Big Balloon Ride;
  • George’s Dinosaur Adventure;
  • Grandpa Pig’s Little Train;
  • Daddy Pig’s Car Ride;
  • Windy Castle Ride;
  • Grandpa Pig’s Boat Trip; 

Although children under 1 m tall are free to go without a ticket, and parking is free, regular access for one person is £41.75. However, if you purchase the tickets in advance, you will save a considerable amount of money. 

 

Surfing in Bristol 

If your kids know how to swim and are up for a challenge, you can take them to the Wave in Bristol, where wave technology is used to imitate natural waves. The Artificial surf lake also has safe environments for kids, where they can learn standing on their board. This sport is suitable for kids aged six or more, and the tickets usually start from £55 for a beginner lesson and £44 for children. 

At the same time, the park has safari tents where you can sleep, and the location provides breakfast and delicious drinks at the Clubhouse café. There are many reasons why surfing is a great sport for kids because:

  • It helps with motor coordination and balance;
  • It boosts cardiovascular exercise and toning;
  • It reduces anxiety and hyperactivity;
  • It teaches patience and tenacity;
Bristol Aquarium

Of course, many other exciting activities and sports can be found in Bristol for your kids to have fun, such as the following:

  • The Bristol Aquarium with exotic tropical seas;
  • The “We The Curios” is a state-of-the-art attraction;
  • The SS Brussel’s Great Britain ships that you can tour;
  • The Wild Place Project has more than 50 acres to explore with animals;
  • The Wookey Hole Caves and Attractions in nearby Somerset;
  • The Leap of Faith in North Bristol, where your kids can have a high rope adventure;
  • The Bristol Museum and Art Gallery;

 

Bottom line

Having fun with kids when travelling around England can be the perfect opportunity to show them interesting things. At the same time, getting to experience different activities around kids their age will help them become more social and maybe they’ll discover their passion. 

 

 

Children and Childcare, interior design

Creating a Cosy Kids’ Bedroom: Bedding & Decor Tips

As parents, we all want our children to have a comfortable and happy space to call their own. A cosy bedroom can go a long way in promoting restful sleep, encouraging creativity, and providing a safe haven for your child to relax and unwind. But creating a cosy kids’ bedroom isn’t always easy, especially if you’re on a tight budget or working with limited space. Here are some bedding and decor tips to help you create a comfortable and inviting space for your child to call their own.

1- Choose the Right Bedding

The first step in creating a cosy kids’ bedroom is to choose the right bedding. Soft, comfortable sheets, blankets, and pillows can make a big difference in how comfortable your child is in their room. Choose a bed made from natural fibres like cotton or bamboo, as these materials are breathable and help regulate body temperature.

Look for bedding with fun prints or colours that your child will love, and don’t be afraid to mix and match different patterns and textures. You could even go one step further and get a dedicate boy or girls bed that is themed towards their personality.

2- Add a Cosy Rug

A soft, plush rug can add warmth and comfort to any bedroom, and it’s especially important in a kids’ room where they may spend a lot of time playing on the floor. Choose a rug made from a durable material like wool or polypropylene, and look for one that’s easy to clean. A shag or plush rug can be especially inviting and comfortable for kids.

3- Incorporate Soft Lighting

The lighting in a room can significantly impact its overall atmosphere. In a kids’ bedroom, it’s important to have a variety of lighting options to accommodate different activities, such as reading, playing, and relaxing. Soft, warm lighting can create a cosy and inviting atmosphere, while brighter task lighting can be helpful for homework or art projects. Consider adding a nightlight to help your child feel secure and comfortable at night.

4- Display Artwork

Displaying your child’s artwork is a great way to personalise their space and make it feel like their own. Hang their drawings or paintings on the walls, or create a gallery wall with a mix of their artwork and favourite photos or prints. You can also encourage your child to create a special piece of art for their room, like a canvas painting or a framed collage.

5- Use Storage Wisely

A cluttered room can feel chaotic and uninviting, so it’s important to have ample storage space in your child’s bedroom. Use shelves, baskets, and storage bins to keep toys, books, and other items organised and out of sight. Consider using under-bed storage or a storage bench to maximise space in a smaller room.

6- Add a Reading Nook

Creating a special spot for your child to read or relax can be a great addition to a cosy kids’ bedroom. A comfortable chair or bean bag, a small table, and a bookshelf can create a cosy reading nook where your child can curl up with a good book or play a game.

7- Incorporate Natural Elements

Incorporating natural elements like plants, wood accents, or woven baskets can create a warm and inviting atmosphere in a kids’ bedroom. Plants not only add a pop of colour, but they also help purify the air and promote relaxation. Wood accents like a rustic headboard or bedside table can add warmth and texture, while woven baskets can be used for storage or decoration.

8- Consider Safety

When decorating your child’s bedroom, safety should always be a top priority. Make sure all furniture is anchored securely to the wall to prevent tipping and choose window treatments that are cordless or have cord safety devices. Avoid using heavy or sharp objects that could pose a danger to your child.

9- Get Your Child Involved

Finally, involve your child in the decorating process. Ask them for their input on colour schemes, bedding, and decor, and let them help with the decision-making process. This will not only help create a space that they love, but it will also encourage them to take ownership of their bedroom and feel more comfortable spending time there.

In conclusion, creating a cosy kids’ bedroom is all about creating a space that is comfortable, inviting, and personalised to your child’s tastes and interests. With the right bedding, decor, and accessories, you can transform your child’s bedroom into a space they love spending time in. Use these tips to get started, and don’t be afraid to get creative and have fun with the decorating process!

 

Children and Childcare, News

Setting up your first nursery? Here’s some things to think about when buying children’s furniture

When having your first child, one of the most exciting moments for parents can be decorating and furnishing the nursery – but as first-time parents, it’s easy to make buying decisions that you later regret – my own particular faux pas was travelling by bus but buying a pushchair I couldn’t take down with one hand while holding my newborn!  I’d simply gone for the top of the range available in a high street kids chain store that shall remain nameless!

So here’s some helpful things to think about when furnishing a nursery and buying furniture for your kids as they grow.

Is it fit for purpose?

Nika 3 piece bedroom set inc Cot Bed, Chest & Wardrobe in Grey Wash – also shown above

Children’s furniture is not about creating miniature versions of adult furniture. It needs to be specifically designed with children in mind, taking into account their size, height, and physical abilities, as well as their developmental needs. While aesthetics are important, the primary consideration when choosing children’s furniture should be its functionality and practicality.  For example, when your child is ready to move into their first bed, it’s best to choose something designed for toddlers, not a cheap divan. Toddler beds are great and widely available, but if you really must buy an adult product, look for well made beds with no splinters in the wood, or tiny spaces to trap little fingers.  Choosing a specialist children’s furniture supplier like Room to Grow, who specialise in furniture for children, means that the provider will have had children in mind when selecting and designing the range, and will have made sure the products are real-world tested.

Safety

Safety is the primary concern when it comes to children’s furniture. Furniture that is not designed for children can pose a variety of hazards. For example, chairs and tables that are too tall or heavy can be difficult for children to use and may even fall over and cause injury. Similarly, furniture with sharp edges, small parts, or loose hardware can be dangerous for young children who are still learning to walk and explore their environment.

Table with Two Stools, designed to be sturdy and stable for small children

Specialist children’s furniture is designed to minimize these risks. It is made with children’s size, strength, and physical abilities in mind, and is constructed with high-quality materials and finishes that are durable and safe. Children’s chairs and tables, for example, are often made with rounded edges, non-slip feet, and adjustable heights to accommodate children of different ages and sizes. This helps to minimize the risk of injury and ensures that children can use the furniture safely and comfortably.

Functionality

Children’s furniture should be designed to meet the unique needs of children. This means that it should be functional and practical, providing children with the tools they need to learn, grow, and play. Furniture that is too bulky, too heavy, or too complicated to use can be frustrating for children, making it difficult for them to learn and play.

Stepaside High Sleeper Workstation

Cabin beds and midsleeper beds can be perfect to optimise space for growing children, and there is plenty of choice on the high street, but again, choosing furniture from a specialist children’s furniture supplier means you’ll be getting a product designed for their needs, rather than just designed to sell at a price point that’s convenient.

Specialist children’s furniture is designed with functionality in mind. It is often lightweight and easy to move, making it simple for children to rearrange their space and create new play areas – but not so lightweight that it is unstable and can topple on tiny ones too easily. It may also include built-in storage or other features that make it easy to keep toys and other items organized and within reach. For example, children’s desks often include built-in storage compartments for books, papers, and art supplies, while kids beds may include built-in storage drawers for clothing and other items.

Developmental Needs

Specialist children’s furniture is also designed to meet the developmental needs of children. This means that it is designed to support children’s physical, cognitive, and emotional development, providing them with the tools they need to learn and grow. For example, children’s furniture may be designed to encourage children to explore their environment, engage in imaginative play, or learn new skills.

Toy storage bench that doubles up as a great place to read

Children’s furniture can also be designed to promote physical activity and health. This is particularly important in a world where children are increasingly sedentary and spend more time indoors. Specialist children’s furniture may include features that encourage children to be active, such as climbing structures, balance boards, or play mats. This not only helps children to develop gross motor skills but also supports their physical health and well-being.

Durability

Children’s furniture needs to be durable and long-lasting. Children are notorious for their rough-and-tumble play, which can be hard on furniture. Furniture that is not designed for children may not be able to withstand the wear and tear of daily use, leading to frequent replacements and unnecessary expense.

Specialist children’s furniture is designed to be durable and long-lasting. It is often constructed with high-quality materials and finishes that can withstand the demands of daily use. This not only makes it a better investment for parents but also helps to reduce waste and promote sustainability.

Conclusion

In conclusion, specialist children’s furniture needs to be functional and practical, not just look good. While aesthetics are important, the primary concern when choosing children’s furniture should be its safety, functionality, and ability to meet the developmental needs of children. Furniture from a specialist children’s supplier is child-friendly by design.

All images are copy right of Room to Grow.  Room to Grow is a children’s bedroom expert, supplying mid sleepers, cabin beds, loft beds, toddler beds, and more to families across the UK.