Our Blog

Facial furniture, cookie duster, crumb catcher or face lace…Call it what you like, the moustache is back in fashion! For Father’s Day we’re doing some special hairy deals – and to kick it off, here’s our ultimate ‘tache style guide for Dads (and even Mums)… A brief history of the ‘tache In many places in the world, from India to the Balkans, moustaches have long been a sign of strength and virility. When a boy’s facial hair grew in, the bushier and wilder it wa …

They don’t make snacks like they used to – how many of these classic (and often bizarre) tuck shop treats of the last century do you remember?Things were different in our day. We didn’t have wall-to-wall, multiple channel children’s TV or iPads, or any of the other instant gratifications our kids enjoy. No, our treats came as sweets and lunchbox fillers. Perfect. Instant. Pleasure. But some of them were decidedly odd. How many of the following 10 retro treats do you remember – and which of y …

Having a family can be expensive. Having fun doesn’t have to be. Thankfully, there is a lot on offer for families in London including many activities that are totally free. Hurrah! From city farms to art activities to parks, here are some of our favourite free days out in the capital…By Misti TrayaCity farms – a breath of fresh airCity farms are great destinations with little ones. Not only are there animals to see but there are different seasons to experience. Children can observe the natural w …

Want to try something a bit different with the kids this Easter holiday? Try these easy and fun ways to make spectacular decorated eggs – by naturally dyeing them with things you have around the house…by Misti TrayaWhen I was nine, we had Ukranian neighbours who kindly invited me to decorate Easter eggs with them. We used wax and lots of bright dyes to create intricate designs. They were the most beautiful eggs I’ve ever seen. Later that day, while on the phone with my grandmother, I told her I’ …

World Book Day is Thursday 7 March. If you’re having a costume crisis, then worry no longer! Here are loads of really simple, low-cost, no-sew outfit ideas for boys and girls…By Misti TrayaI love World Book Day; yet I am filled with dread when it comes to helping my child choose a costume to wear to school. This anxiety has nothing to do with her desire to go as a character from a film or animated series instead a book – though that does get my goat. And it’s not because she only wants to be a p …

Here come the girls! Writer (and mother to a mighty daughter) Misti Traya selects six brilliant recent books for rebellious, strong girls…When we were young, most books about girls followed old tropes. If protagonists were female, they were usually princesses who needed saving or textbook good girls who did as they were told. But now it’s 2019! And it’s time for a change. Girl power is everywhere: #stronggirls #bravegirls #likeagirl are all popular hashtags for a reason.Here are some o …

Having your child’s friends over for the first time can be a bit daunting for parents. Here’s how to make it go like a breeze (they might even get some sleep)…By Misti Traya Your child’s first sleepover can be daunting. Whether it’s the first time they’re staying at someone else’s house or a friend is coming to theirs, there exists a potential for calamity. I’m not saying I wouldn’t pick up my crying child from a slumber party at midnight, just that I’d prefer not to.Most children have thei …