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How to make your own Easter Egg

How to make your own Easter Egg

by | Apr 18, 2025 | Featured, Food, Uncategorized

HOW TO MAKE YOUR OWN EASTER EGG

by Oli ‘the choc’ Dunn

🐥 

Hey everyone, I’m Oliver Dunn aka Oli The Choc, I’m a Chocolatier and grateful to have grown up surrounded by chocolate in the family business Simon Dunn Chocolatier.

I love working with chocolate as it helps me to release my own creativity into the world but it’s more that that, it enables me to connect with people on a more meaningful level, helping them to enable their own creativity is something I’m passionate about. 

More so I never know from one week to the next where my chocolate adventures will take me and what opportunities just might present themselves.

Master Chocolatier Oli Dunn is a Guinness World Record holder and has appeared on TV shows such as This Morning, Blue Peter and Stephs Packed Lunch.

www.olithechoc.com

 

Oliver Dunn
Oliver Dunn Chocolatier © BROOD MAGAZINE 
Incredible edible branded chocolate
BROOD Membership

How to make an Easter Egg using a balloon and some chocolate, here’s what you need;

Easter Egg Recipe.

  • 1 balloon 
  • 300g of milk chocolate
  • 50g white chocolate 
  • Greaseproof paper
  • Wooden or metal skewer
  • 2 large bowls
  • Mini eggs for decoration 

Method.

Firstly you’ll need to temper 300g of milk chocolate, which means you need to melt it and add solid chocolate pieces back to the mixture in order to cool it down, until there is no heat whatsoever in the bowl and especially in the chocolate, the chocolate should be cool to touch on your lip and when you splash some on the greaseproof paper it will solidify within a few minutes, if its still slightly warm add some more soli pieces until it’s cool on your lip and the chocolate pieces no longer melt, not even slightly.

For more in depth instructions on tempering you can follow the instructions on this video https://youtu.be/8hBEGFutYlI?si=93LXEkxY5VZ3-Jf5

Inflate the balloon to the size you would like the egg, in this case I recommend inflating to circa 100mm in width.

Thread the skewer through the mouthpiece and cover the balloon with as much tempered chocolate as possible.

Rest each end of the skewer on two boxes/ bowls or similar so the chocolate egg (covered balloon) is suspended above the surface and not in contact with anything.

Leave it to dry, you will notice as long as the chocolate is perfectly tempered (cool on your lip) that it will lose its shine and begin to have a slightly matt finish when it’s set and therefore ready for another layer. Repeat this process to give the egg a second layer.

Suspend the egg again using the skewer until the egg has completely set.

Pop the balloon carefully using the end of the skewer and slowly, carefully remove the balloon from inside.

Pipe a blob of chocolate slightly bigger than the hole onto a piece of greaseproof paper, allow it to lose its shine and as its beginning to set, sit the egg on the blob of chocolate. Once it has set enough to peel away from the greaseproof you can do just that while using a spatula or pallet knife to smooth out the patched up hole, you can use your finger to smooth it out too.

Pipe a similar sized blob, perhaps slightly bigger (circa 5cm wide) to sit the egg on so it stands up on its own.

Decorate the egg accordingly with white chocolate writing if you wish to personalise.

Or to make an egg-head by piping a face on, use chocolate buttons as eyes and a mini egg for the nose.

Give this a go, tag me and Brood in your pics.

Go Eggstra or go home.

Peace, Love, Choc ‘n’ Roll

Oli

 

Chocolate Rice Cake
BROOD Magazine Edition 7
Chocolate Rice Cake

Rice crispy cakes.

When I was a boy my Mum always used to use the chocolate from my Dads chocolate factory to make crispy cakes at Easter for my sister and I. Therefore the crunchy chocolateyness fills me with pure nostalgia and takes me back in time like I just hopped out of the DeLorean.

FFWD to NOW and I’m a big kid with a nearly threenager daughter, I love baking with her and the great thing about crispy cakes is they’re is no baking involved so it’s super quick and easy to do. If you happen to have any eggs left after Easter (unlikely though right?!) they can come in very useful and provide a great family activity, just melt and add rice crispies. 

My Mums recipe with an Oliver twist.

100g rice crispies 

100g milk chocolate (buttons or broken up solid chocolate bar pieces)

20g white chocolate (as above)

50g Mini Marshmallows 

65 Sprinkles of your choice 

4 Tbsp Honey or maple syrup (optional)

110g Mini eggs 

10 x paper cases / cupcake case 

Makes circa 6 cakes.

Method.

Temper the milk chocolate.

Firstly you’ll need to temper 100g of milk chocolate, which means you need to melt it and add solid chocolate pieces back to the mixture in order to cool it down, until there is no heat whatsoever in the bowl and especially in the chocolate, the chocolate should be cool to touch on your lip and when you splash some on the greaseproof paper it will solidify within a few minutes, if its still slightly warm add some more soli pieces until it’s cool on your lip and the chocolate pieces no longer melt, not even slightly.

For more in depth instructions on tempering you can follow the instructions on this video https://youtu.be/8hBEGFutYlI?si=93LXEkxY5VZ3-Jf5

Add the rice crispies or your choice of cereal.

Stir until all of the cereal is covered in chocolate, add more cereal if you can / if it looks like the chocolate will go further. More cereal the softer / easier they will be to eat.

Add 4 tbsp oh honey or maple syrup if you wish to make them softer, this will help bind the mixture too.

Act quick here before the chocolate starts to set, spoon the crispy cakes into the cases.

Then for the satisfying part, drizzle tempered white chocolate over the top and add decoration such as mini eggs, sprinkles or mini mallows.

Give it a go, tag me and Brood in your pics.

Peace, Love, Choc ‘n’ Roll

Oli 🫶🏼

san carlo
Interview with Mother Pukka – AKA Anna Whitehouse

Interview with Mother Pukka – AKA Anna Whitehouse

by | Apr 14, 2025 | , ,

Anna is formidable in her pursuit for equality in the workplace, fuelled by her passion to ensure that her girls, or any girls, don’t face a future where you can have your career snatched away from you just because you dared to have a baby; sadly this is something that Anna experienced first hand.

School Attendance at an all time low, but what’s the reason?

School Attendance at an all time low, but what’s the reason?

by | Mar 21, 2025 | ,

School attendance is at a crisis level, but the key issue is not a cheaper couple of days at Center Parcs, but the very serious issue educational settings not being able to meet children’s needs be that for children with SEN needs, or the who are experiencing bullying and experiencing anxiety, especially post-Covid and the experience of lockdowns on children and young people.

How to Handle Sleep Regressions Without Losing Your Sanity

How to Handle Sleep Regressions Without Losing Your Sanity

by | Mar 3, 2025 |

Just when it finally feels like sleep is under control thanks to a rigid bedtime routine you made, everything falls apart. The baby who used to sleep through the night is now waking up every hour. Naps are a battle. The bedtime routine that once worked like magic suddenly does nothing. Plus, exhaustion takes over, patience runs thin, and suddenly, drinking coffee feels like a personality trait.

HOW TO MANAGE THE CLOCKS SPRINGING FORWARD

HOW TO MANAGE THE CLOCKS SPRINGING FORWARD

by | Feb 27, 2025 | , ,

Twice a year when the clocks change, we are inundated with questions and parents asking what they can do. Although the spring clock change can play havoc with our bodies (an increase in heart attacks and strokes the day after this happen) but it can really help you if you have a little one who likes waking before 5am!

Brood Magazine
Links
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Interview with Mother Pukka – AKA Anna Whitehouse

Interview with Mother Pukka – AKA Anna Whitehouse

by | Apr 14, 2025 | Featured, Trending, Work

Interview with Formidable and powerhouse, Mother Pukka AKA Anna Whitehouse

__________________________________

“54,000 women every year are locked out of the workforce for daring to have a baby!”

The inspirational Anna Whitehouse aka Mother Pukka is a Mum of two, soon to be three girls, a writer, podcast host, campaigner for flexible working and founder of Flex Appeal.

Anna is formidable in her pursuit for equality in the workplace, fuelled by her passion to ensure that her girls, or any girls, don’t face a future where you can have your career snatched away from you just because you dared to have a baby; sadly this is something that Anna experienced first hand.

Flex Appeal
Ashley James
Mother Pukka Breast Feeding

Mother Pukka Images © BROOD Magazine Limited

Anna’s unwavering passion, eloquence, honesty and relentless campaigning have led her to gain a loyal following that amasses over 400k on Instagram alone. Anna is admired and appreciated by so many parents far and wide for being a much-needed voice around flexible working, childcare costs, and maternity and paternity packages. We sat down with Anna to discuss the challenges she has faced since becoming a parent and why this time around she’s not going to return to work with any apologies.  

At what point in your career did you first become a parent? And how did you find that transition? 

Anna: “I first became a parent just as my career was really taking off. I think this happens with a lot of women actually; you’re at that junction where your career is going like this, [Anna gestures an upward movement] and then suddenly you have a baby [she meets and connects the other hand] and it kind of cuts you off a bit. And this is not because of a lack of your own enthusiasm, your own experience or your own brilliance, but because of the ceiling that the world of discrimination puts upon us mothers. So yeah, my eldest came along as I was rising [up], I then just hit a complete wall. 

Where did your inspiration for ‘Mother Pukka’ come from? 

 

Anna: “Mother Pukka came from a really primal, visceral, maternal, angry place. That’s why it was quite blue at first. It was Mother something else! [She laughs] So it was watered down and became Mother Pukka. But initially, it came from a place of just ‘hacked-off-ness’. I’d seen so many baby magazines and so many articles that were aimed at parents, all of them talking about what nipple teat to have and what ‘bugaboo’ to get, and what nappy changing bag worked, but no one was talking about the motherhood penalty. No one was talking about the lack of flexible working for parents. No one was talking about the quiet swathes of women who are disappearing from the workforce just because they assumed that’s what needed to happen because of the status quo. And so mother pukka, just came from this place of frustration that I’d had my flexible working request denied for really vague reasons.

Like ‘it would open the floodgates for other people to have flexible working!?’ And I was like, I’m sorry, let’s open the floodgates because people are drowning behind them! Specifically mothers – 54,000 mothers every year are discriminated against. So, yeah, that’s where it [Mother Pukka] came from.”

jmw

You’ve recently posted, I’m not sorry, where you mentioned that when you returned to work after having your first two children, you returned almost ‘smaller’ and quite apologetic. You have shared your understandable frustrations around that. How different will the experience be for you this time around? Do you feel stronger than you did previously?

Anna: “I’m just not taking it anymore, you know. [Anna talks passionately] I think things have and are changing; it’s not a case of employers changing things, I think women are changing things because we’re 50% of the population and we’re just saying ‘No!’. We’re saying, ‘No, call my daughter’s father as well as me when she’s in nursery!’ (And that’s nothing against the amazing key workers who work with our children.) But the expectation, the bulk of childcare, is still strapped firmly to female shoulders. It’s not that we’re fighting some revolution. It’s evolution. That’s the difference. And I think people see that, with the work I do, the work the ‘Pregnant Then Screwed’ group does, the work that the Fawcett Society does – all these amazing organisations shine a light on this. People say to me ‘Oh my God, this is big what you’re all doing!’ and I’m like, no, it’s what it should have been there in the first place! That’s what equality is. It’s rebalancing a system that is structured and built for women, specifically mothers to fail. So I am not apologising anymore for a system that is set up for me, for my daughters, for my daughter’s-daughter’s to fail. It’s not my fault. It’s not your fault. and it needs fixing!”

Is it that personal experience that inspired you to start Flex Appeal? (The campaign for more flexible working for everyone)   

Anna: “I think when I started speaking about the other side of the motherhood story, which wasn’t just about what maternity bag to buy or, ‘how to pack your hospital bag.’ It was about the real-time frustrations around giving up, not just work, but your purpose, of yourself, the expectation that you just step back. I decided, actually, do you know what this needs? Governmental change. This needs structural change. So that is when I launched Flex Appeal, which was our lobbying body/platform/organisation for the exhausted women in the street shouting, ‘ I don’t care what you want to call me [for being me]!’ It’s that drive to change not just the narrative, but legislation. I just thought, there’s no way through this unless legislation changes for men and women. And I think that’s the big point here. This isn’t just about mums. This is about parents! It’s about dads who are just desperately frustrated that their employer won’t enable them to work flexibly because it’s seen as a ‘her-in-doors’ job still.  

I say, the unconscious bias, but it’s a conscious bias that sits right there. So I needed a campaign to hook this on. That would have me, my little daughter at the time, my second daughter, and maybe this one now [she points to her unborn child] knocking on the doors of Whitehall and just saying, what are you doing about the 54,000 women every year that are locked out of the workforce for daring to have a baby? Like, that’s a ridiculous amount. And  that doesn’t even include gagging orders, NDA’s, etc, so you could probably quadruple that number you know.”

 

After 10 years of campaignin, how are you feeling now that it was recently announced the current government has decided to start the ball rolling? And how long do you think it will take to be implemented?

Yeah. Three babies, one decade, and one campaign [she laughs.] I will say the proof is in the pudding because there’ve been so many governmental, political promises and until it actually happens, I don’t and I won’t believe it. So in some ways I’m taking it with a pinch of salt. 

It’s quite monumental, but until flexible working is by default, that it is just assumed across the board instead of fought for, the onus is still on the employees. Until that structure changes, I won’t see any level of success. But what I would love to see, before that time is don’t wait for the laws to change if you’re an employer. Don’t take the stick approach, take the carrot approach. Why aren’t you thinking about how you can retain this brilliant talent? You’re not doing us a favour. We’re great. We’re talented. You’re cutting us out at our prime when we know so much and then you have to get somebody else in and [have to] train them up. So it’s about businesses too really. I want to see cultural change. I want to see. For example a dad messaged me, and he told me that he had put his request flexible in and it was rejected on the basis that they said, ‘Can’t your ‘missus’ do that?’ That was in 2023? [she sighs in disbelief and goes onto answer the question herself…] ‘You know what, No. His ‘missus’ might be working elsewhere, or might be a brain surgeon, or you know, might be doing something else. So no, the assumption that ‘her-in-doors,’ ‘ya missus,’ ‘the mum’, the ‘primary caregiver’ should automatically pick up that childcare slack, is so inherently wrong. So I want to see a cultural change around that employer going, yes, absolutely, pick up your daughter from nursery because of the old hapless dad trope, you know, ‘daddy daycare’ or ‘babysitting my children.’ any of that – we’re done with it! Like you’re parenting. I think that it’s language like that that we need to start using: parenting, parental leave, not just maternity leave. Lets unite the two sides of the procreation coin. It takes two to tango. So you know there won’t be equality unless we recognise those two sides. 

BROOD Magazine Edition 7
Mothers Day gifts

“…My daughter initially said to me, ‘Mummy, sometimes I think you don’t like me very much when you’re on the phone.”

What has been the most challenging time in your life since having to juggle both work and parenthood?

Anna: “I think this is probably something every one of your readers has gone through. Regardless of whether you are, I hate the term stay-at-home-mum because no parent stays at home, you’re out doing things all the time and everyone’s a full time mum. I think it’s really offensive when you hear, I’m a full time mum. Well no actually, I’m a full time mum too. Everyone’s a full time mum because even when you’re working, you’re still carrying the weight of parenting at the same time, That’s why it’s heavy for us all at times. The administration of that [parenting]. You’re carrying your child from birth to primary school even at secondary school and beyond. I think a lot of your readers would probably relate here, regardless of, if you’re a ‘stay-at-home mum’ or, you know, you work, in an office or away… when that moment where your child says ‘Mummy, why are you on your phone?’ And there’s this moment that happens, in every single parent’s day where you’re caught between everything you need to do and just being with your child. My daughter initially said to me, ‘mummy, sometimes I think you don’t like me very much when you’re on the phone.’ And it broke me. So that is the kind of thing that is challenging. It’s trying to mentally balance the love I have for them, knowing that my heart is with them, but my head is with my mortgage, with the things I need to add structure to their lives, safety, security and recognising that is also love for them. And I’m actually split in the middle and I think that our phones are quite representative of that split, that divide, that tension. Because what parent hasn’t said to their child. ‘Just a minute, just a minute.’ And then they look at you and they say, ‘has it been a minute yet.’ And you’re like, ‘just a second’ and then they’ll ask ‘Is it a second yet?.’ Then you can feel yourself rising and you feel that feeling in your chest, because what you’re trying to do is answer an email or message or a client request in the middle of maybe cooking their dinner, or do one of the thousand other things that need doing. You can then get to a point where you lose it. And I lost it the other day, I said ‘if you don’t stop fighting (over some toy that neither of them cared about) …if you don’t stop doing that, Mum is going to lose her temperature!’ And as I said temperature, they just burst out laughing. [She laughs] But that’s kind of how it feels. You’re kind of like a kettle boiling. And as you do lose your temperature, you lose your temper, you lose your marbles, you lose your mind! You know, there’s so much loss in motherhood. There’s loss of hair. There’s a loss of glow. You know, you go from pregnant to not pregnant. There’s lots of skin that used to be firm and isn’t anymore. There’s loss of self. There’s loss of conversation etc. But in all of that, in the fragments of that loss, you find yourself. The best bit of standing in the middle of what can seem like rubble is looking at my two little girls and thinking, ‘I get to be your mother, I get to be your parent.”  But yes, all that extra pressure that comes with being a mum I would say probably remains the most challenging job Mother Nature could ever bestow [she laughs.]”

And to end on a high note, what has been the highlight of your career so far?” 

Anna: “I think the highlight of my career is actually, moments with my two girls. I’m really trying to carve that time out. I think it’s really easy to go to kind of accolades or moments or legislation or, you know, maybe hosting something or quite big tangible things, but the biggest thing for me is reclaiming time with them. That’s my success story. Time that I know a more archaic employer would have taken from me. So I think it’s probably sitting on the sofa on a Sunday morning, when we’re all in our PJs, whilst they eat Cheerios and you end up with one in your bra stuck to you. Those moments where they are snuggled up with you, and you can feel the warmth of their little bodies, whilst watching some inane cartoon; those are the moments you live for.

 If I was going to say on a tangible level, it would be changing the law of flexible working. The flexible working bill that came into effect in April of this year. I didn’t do it on my own though, there were a hell of a lot of other organisations involved in that. But the reason that matters is because it’s something where I can say to my little girls,  I did that because I’m not letting you go through what I went through. [Anna voice quivers and her eyes fill with tears] I’m not letting you go through that. I just couldn’t. I couldn’t watch them go do their ABCs, and then their GCSEs and their A-levels and maybe get that first job. You know when you get a phone on a computer. Going from the excitement of that to then having someone take it away. I’m not letting them go through that. That’s what happened to me and it’s certainly not happening to this one [She rubs her stomach] So yeah, I think it’s to change the structure of the world that has written us, as little girls, off!”

You can follow the inspirational Anna Whitehouse on Instagram @Mother_Pukka or visit her website: www.motherpukka.co.uk/ 

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innocent is making a splash with its new kids juicy water, just in time for Easter hols!

innocent is making a splash with its new kids juicy water, just in time for Easter hols!

by | Apr 14, 2025 | Featured, Guest Feature

Innocent, the UK’s number 1 chilled juice brand, has announced the launch of a brand new offering – innocent kids juicy water.

By Guest Contributor
_

innocent kids juicy water is a deliciously refreshing blend of real fruit, water and natural flavours, giving kids a tasty way to stay hydrated while on the go. Each serving contains a whole portion of real fruit and comes in two mouth-watering flavours: apples & strawberries and apples & mangoes. Best of all? They contain no added sugar and are made with only natural ingredients – just delicious and refreshing goodness in a handy 200ml pack.

The product is being launched onto the menus of family favourite spots across the UK in time for the Easter holidays. Parents will be able to find these little drinks in leisure sites like Legoland and Butlins, family pub chains up and down the country like Greene King sites and beyond, and even with a King Jr. Meal in Burger King.

Charlie Swinburn, Senior Brand Manager at innocent, said: “We know parents and caregivers are looking for products that refresh and hydrate their kids but also gives them some goodness. Which is why we created innocent kids juicy water. This tasty little drink is made with only natural ingredients and contains a whole portion of fruit – meaning it will be easier for parents to get a little goodness into their kids when they are out and about.”

BROOD Magazine Edition 7

With only 12% of UK children getting their ‘5-a-day’, and 63% of parents in the UK worrying that their child does not get enough nutrients from their diet, the launch aims to offer kids another great way to enjoy the goodness in fruit and veg.*

kids juicy water will be making a splash at some of the country’s top family destinations across the next few months, keeping little adventurers (and their parents of course) hydrated while on the move this Easter, and beyond. For more information, please head to www.innocentdrinks.co.uk/things-we-make/kids.

jmw

Lolo’s son is non-speaking at present, and as a parent it is heartbreaking to know how crucial early intervention is for children with SEN needs, but to not have any access to such facilities. I dread to think of what the families who have children waiting years for diagnosis and ECHPs feel and experience. With two older children aged 12 and 13, one of whom also has SEN needs, I’ve seen first-hand the rapid decline in support in schools and the lack of funding and support from the local authority; you can feel the frustration from the teachers too.

Maybe instead of the local authorities concentrating so much of their admin time into fining parents – who most of the time are hard working parents who just want to give their children life-enhancing experiences, spend quality family time together and simply require more flexibility as to when the can take them on holiday as more and more families have both sets of parents working, and – and let’s focus the extra time and energy into solving the real problems as to why our children are not in school. It’s always one of the first topics of conversation when I meet another other SEN parent.

Also, look at the very real issue of bullying and subsequent anxiety for young people, who are experiencing intimidating behaviour in the classroom that they cannot escape from, as it follows them online and across social media platforms into the evenings and weekends. Even if we take their phones away, they can feel anxiety thinking about what is being posted and said about them when they are offline.

We cannot accept the narrative that a skiing trip is a beneficial cultural and social experience when put on by a school, but irresponsible when part of a family trip. We need to acknowledge how much more expensive holidays are in school holidays, and how much the cost of living has risen for everyone – it is harder than ever raising a family.

If we care about our children’s education, we can support parents to ensure there is consistent learning during term-times including remote learning where needed, and build trusted relationships between families and schools. By blaming parents for absenteeism when the actual issue is that many children’s needs are not being met and there are many children that have dropped out of the education system post-Covid, this approach is not going to improve attendance levels in a meaningful way.

Children and young people need schools to be safe places, where they can have an enjoyable education and they are not fearful of going to school. Let’s focus on this and deal with actual problems we have, rather than blaming parents who are trying to give their children a balanced, happy life, that can include the occasional affordable holiday with their family.

BROOD Membership
Interview with Mother Pukka – AKA Anna Whitehouse

Interview with Mother Pukka – AKA Anna Whitehouse

by | Apr 14, 2025 | , ,

Anna is formidable in her pursuit for equality in the workplace, fuelled by her passion to ensure that her girls, or any girls, don’t face a future where you can have your career snatched away from you just because you dared to have a baby; sadly this is something that Anna experienced first hand.

School Attendance at an all time low, but what’s the reason?

School Attendance at an all time low, but what’s the reason?

by | Mar 21, 2025 | ,

School attendance is at a crisis level, but the key issue is not a cheaper couple of days at Center Parcs, but the very serious issue educational settings not being able to meet children’s needs be that for children with SEN needs, or the who are experiencing bullying and experiencing anxiety, especially post-Covid and the experience of lockdowns on children and young people.

How to Handle Sleep Regressions Without Losing Your Sanity

How to Handle Sleep Regressions Without Losing Your Sanity

by | Mar 3, 2025 |

Just when it finally feels like sleep is under control thanks to a rigid bedtime routine you made, everything falls apart. The baby who used to sleep through the night is now waking up every hour. Naps are a battle. The bedtime routine that once worked like magic suddenly does nothing. Plus, exhaustion takes over, patience runs thin, and suddenly, drinking coffee feels like a personality trait.

HOW TO MANAGE THE CLOCKS SPRINGING FORWARD

HOW TO MANAGE THE CLOCKS SPRINGING FORWARD

by | Feb 27, 2025 | , ,

Twice a year when the clocks change, we are inundated with questions and parents asking what they can do. Although the spring clock change can play havoc with our bodies (an increase in heart attacks and strokes the day after this happen) but it can really help you if you have a little one who likes waking before 5am!

Links
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School Attendance at an all time low, but what’s the reason?

School Attendance at an all time low, but what’s the reason?

by | Mar 21, 2025 | Family, Featured

SCHOOL ATTENDANCE AT AN ALL TIME LOw BUT WHAT’S THE REASON?

By Lolo Stubbs & Teresa Parker
_

When you look at the current focus on fining parents who take their children out of school for holidays, you’d think that was the main reason why there is an issue with school attendance levels. However, the latest report from the Institute of for Public Policy Research (IPPR) reveals a very different picture.

School attendance is at a crisis level, but the key issue is not a cheaper couple of days at Center Parcs, but the very serious issue educational settings not being able to meet children’s needs be that for children with SEN needs, or the who are experiencing bullying and experiencing anxiety, especially post-Covid and the experience of lockdowns on children and young people.

BROOD Magazine Edition 7

This important report from the IPPR and The Difference today sets out a plan to end the rapid rise in absence, exclusions and the special educational needs crisis that all drive lost learning. Five years on from schools going into lockdown, the report has brought together more than 100 teachers, leaders, students, parent groups and charities to pinpoint the root causes of lost learning, and to find solutions.

Reading the report it couldn’t have been more fitting as yesterday, just like many parents throughout the UK, Lolo couldn’t take her 5 year old autistic son to school because he was distressed and over stimulated, and it wouldn’t have been fair on them, him or us to take him into school knowing that they didn’t have the facilities or staff to help him. Last week he was in school for less than hour before we had to collect him again. Some weeks he copes really well, and others are a real struggle and this is a child who has had an autism diagnosis at 4, ECHP since October term of starting in Reception, funding for a 1:1 and who goes to an outstanding primary school. A specialist school is listed on his EHCP, but who knows how long it will before he is actually moved to that setting.

jmw

Lolo’s son is non-speaking at present, and as a parent it is heartbreaking to know how crucial early intervention is for children with SEN needs, but to not have any access to such facilities. I dread to think of what the families who have children waiting years for diagnosis and ECHPs feel and experience. With two older children aged 12 and 13, one of whom also has SEN needs, I’ve seen first-hand the rapid decline in support in schools and the lack of funding and support from the local authority; you can feel the frustration from the teachers too.

Maybe instead of the local authorities concentrating so much of their admin time into fining parents – who most of the time are hard working parents who just want to give their children life-enhancing experiences, spend quality family time together and simply require more flexibility as to when the can take them on holiday as more and more families have both sets of parents working, and – and let’s focus the extra time and energy into solving the real problems as to why our children are not in school. It’s always one of the first topics of conversation when I meet another other SEN parent.

Also, look at the very real issue of bullying and subsequent anxiety for young people, who are experiencing intimidating behaviour in the classroom that they cannot escape from, as it follows them online and across social media platforms into the evenings and weekends. Even if we take their phones away, they can feel anxiety thinking about what is being posted and said about them when they are offline.

We cannot accept the narrative that a skiing trip is a beneficial cultural and social experience when put on by a school, but irresponsible when part of a family trip. We need to acknowledge how much more expensive holidays are in school holidays, and how much the cost of living has risen for everyone – it is harder than ever raising a family.

If we care about our children’s education, we can support parents to ensure there is consistent learning during term-times including remote learning where needed, and build trusted relationships between families and schools. By blaming parents for absenteeism when the actual issue is that many children’s needs are not being met and there are many children that have dropped out of the education system post-Covid, this approach is not going to improve attendance levels in a meaningful way.

Children and young people need schools to be safe places, where they can have an enjoyable education and they are not fearful of going to school. Let’s focus on this and deal with actual problems we have, rather than blaming parents who are trying to give their children a balanced, happy life, that can include the occasional affordable holiday with their family.

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Interview with Mother Pukka – AKA Anna Whitehouse

Interview with Mother Pukka – AKA Anna Whitehouse

by | Apr 14, 2025 | , ,

Anna is formidable in her pursuit for equality in the workplace, fuelled by her passion to ensure that her girls, or any girls, don’t face a future where you can have your career snatched away from you just because you dared to have a baby; sadly this is something that Anna experienced first hand.

School Attendance at an all time low, but what’s the reason?

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by | Mar 21, 2025 | ,

School attendance is at a crisis level, but the key issue is not a cheaper couple of days at Center Parcs, but the very serious issue educational settings not being able to meet children’s needs be that for children with SEN needs, or the who are experiencing bullying and experiencing anxiety, especially post-Covid and the experience of lockdowns on children and young people.

How to Handle Sleep Regressions Without Losing Your Sanity

How to Handle Sleep Regressions Without Losing Your Sanity

by | Mar 3, 2025 |

Just when it finally feels like sleep is under control thanks to a rigid bedtime routine you made, everything falls apart. The baby who used to sleep through the night is now waking up every hour. Naps are a battle. The bedtime routine that once worked like magic suddenly does nothing. Plus, exhaustion takes over, patience runs thin, and suddenly, drinking coffee feels like a personality trait.

HOW TO MANAGE THE CLOCKS SPRINGING FORWARD

HOW TO MANAGE THE CLOCKS SPRINGING FORWARD

by | Feb 27, 2025 | , ,

Twice a year when the clocks change, we are inundated with questions and parents asking what they can do. Although the spring clock change can play havoc with our bodies (an increase in heart attacks and strokes the day after this happen) but it can really help you if you have a little one who likes waking before 5am!

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Some Simple Ways To Make A Wedding Less Stressful

Some Simple Ways To Make A Wedding Less Stressful

by | Mar 13, 2025 | Balance

Some Simple Ways To Make A Wedding Less Stressful

_

Weddings are famously stressful to plan for, but this doesn’t actually mean that they have to be. If you are planning a wedding and you want to try and make sure it goes to plan, but that it is also not so stressful throughout, there are a lot of things you might want to bear in mind here. If you can do the following, you should find that you are going to have a much less stressful wedding, and that it really makes a huge difference to your whole experience, so let’s take a look right now.

Some Simple Ways To Make A Wedding Less Stressful

Credit – CCO License

BROOD Magazine Edition 7

Prioritise What Matters

One of the things that gets in the way during a wedding planning process is failing to remember what actually matters. If you are finding yourself in that place, it’s vital that you do whatever you can to try and prioritise what actually matters – which is that you and your partner are going to have the day you want, and that you are forgetting as much as possible about the opinions of everyone else. This is vital, as is letting go of the idea that the day has to be perfect. If you can do that, it’s going to make a huge difference.

Delegate

You will have lots of people around you for a reason, and one of those reasons is that they are going to be able to help you with the planning of the day. It’s important that you make use of them, that you listen to people when they say they are going to be there to help, and that you actually do make use of them in whatever way you need to. If you can do that, you are going to be in a much better place and you will find that it’s so much less stressful on the whole.

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Choose A Stress-Free Venue

Venues do differ a lot, and it’s vital that you are going to try and find yourself one that is truly stress-free as soon as possible. This means that you are going to be much better off if you find a venue that has built-in coordinators, catering and so on. All in all, finding the best venue for your needs, and doing it early on, is going to make a huge difference to all of this. You’ll find that you have much less stress when you have managed to do this early on, so remember that.

Limit Your Guest List

If you can keep your guest list small, it makes everything a lot easier, and you are going to find that you are much more likely to be able to really achieve what you want. It makes it more affordable, it means there is less to plan for, and generally it just enables you to really make the most of the day. With all that in mind, you should find that you are going to have a much better time planning it and that it can be a lot less stressful on the whole.

Interview with Mother Pukka – AKA Anna Whitehouse

Interview with Mother Pukka – AKA Anna Whitehouse

by | Apr 14, 2025 | , ,

Anna is formidable in her pursuit for equality in the workplace, fuelled by her passion to ensure that her girls, or any girls, don’t face a future where you can have your career snatched away from you just because you dared to have a baby; sadly this is something that Anna experienced first hand.

School Attendance at an all time low, but what’s the reason?

School Attendance at an all time low, but what’s the reason?

by | Mar 21, 2025 | ,

School attendance is at a crisis level, but the key issue is not a cheaper couple of days at Center Parcs, but the very serious issue educational settings not being able to meet children’s needs be that for children with SEN needs, or the who are experiencing bullying and experiencing anxiety, especially post-Covid and the experience of lockdowns on children and young people.

How to Handle Sleep Regressions Without Losing Your Sanity

How to Handle Sleep Regressions Without Losing Your Sanity

by | Mar 3, 2025 |

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HOW TO MANAGE THE CLOCKS SPRINGING FORWARD

HOW TO MANAGE THE CLOCKS SPRINGING FORWARD

by | Feb 27, 2025 | , ,

Twice a year when the clocks change, we are inundated with questions and parents asking what they can do. Although the spring clock change can play havoc with our bodies (an increase in heart attacks and strokes the day after this happen) but it can really help you if you have a little one who likes waking before 5am!

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Effortless Hair Ideas for Busy Mums: Mother’s Day Edition

Effortless Hair Ideas for Busy Mums: Mother’s Day Edition

by | Mar 12, 2025 | Style

Effortless Hair Ideas for Busy Mums: Mother’s Day Edition

By Nicola Wood, Founder of Hair Made Easi

Mother’s Day is the perfect time to treat yourself, even when balancing a busy schedule. These simple, low-maintenance hairstyles will help you look and feel your best, whether you’re heading out for a family celebration or enjoying a cosy day at home.

Hair styles

1. The Classic Low Bun

Why it’s perfect: This style is quick to create and looks effortlessly elegant. How to achieve it:

  • Gather your hair into a low ponytail.
  • Twist the ponytail into a bun and secure it with bobby pins.
  • Pull out a few face-framing strands for a soft, flattering look.
  • Use light-hold hairspray and add a decorative clip or scrunchie for a polished finish.

2. Soft Beachy Waves

Why it’s perfect: This look is relaxed yet stylish, perfect for any Mother’s Day plans.
How to achieve it:

  • Lightly dampen your hair before bed.
  • Divide your hair into sections, twist each into a bun, and secure with hair ties or pins.
  • In the morning, release the buns and run your fingers through your hair to separate the waves.
  • Apply a touch of hair oil or texturising spray for added definition and shine.

3. Half-Up, Half-Down Twist

Why it’s perfect: A quick and flattering style for any occasion.
How to achieve it:

  • Take two sections of hair from either side of your face.
  • Twist each section and pin them at the back of your head.
  • Add a ribbon or decorative pin for an elegant touch.
Hair Made Easi

4. Sleek High Ponytail

Why it’s perfect: A chic and fuss-free look for busy mums.
How to achieve it:

  • Brush your hair into a high ponytail and secure it tightly with a hair tie.
  • Wrap a small section of hair around the base of the ponytail to conceal the tie.
  • Use a straightener for sleek ends or curl the ponytail for added volume.

5. Messy Side Braid

Why it’s perfect: A stylish option that requires minimal effort.
How to achieve it:

  • Pull your hair to one side and create a loose braid.
  • Gently tug on the braid to create volume and a soft, messy texture.
  • Add a floral accessory for a romantic finishing touch.

6. Natural Curls or Textured Look

Why it’s perfect: Enhance your natural hair texture with minimal effort.
How to achieve it:

  • Use a curl-enhancing mousse or cream to define natural curls or waves.
  • Let your hair air-dry or use a diffuser for a soft, natural finish.
  • Pin one side back with a decorative clip for an instant style upgrade.

Tips for Busy Mums

  • Prep the Night Before: Wash hair the night before and use the XL Hair Wrap to reduce frizz.
  • Keep Accessories Handy: Hair clips, scrunchies, or headbands can transform your look in seconds.
  • Dry Shampoo is Your Best Friend: For last-minute styling, dry shampoo adds volume and freshness to your hair.

No matter how busy your day is, these hairstyles will help you look and feel special this Mother’s Day. 💕

BROOD Magazine Edition 7

BROOD Magazine Annnual Subscription – £26.96

Interview with Mother Pukka – AKA Anna Whitehouse

Interview with Mother Pukka – AKA Anna Whitehouse

by | Apr 14, 2025 | , ,

Anna is formidable in her pursuit for equality in the workplace, fuelled by her passion to ensure that her girls, or any girls, don’t face a future where you can have your career snatched away from you just because you dared to have a baby; sadly this is something that Anna experienced first hand.

School Attendance at an all time low, but what’s the reason?

School Attendance at an all time low, but what’s the reason?

by | Mar 21, 2025 | ,

School attendance is at a crisis level, but the key issue is not a cheaper couple of days at Center Parcs, but the very serious issue educational settings not being able to meet children’s needs be that for children with SEN needs, or the who are experiencing bullying and experiencing anxiety, especially post-Covid and the experience of lockdowns on children and young people.

How to Handle Sleep Regressions Without Losing Your Sanity

How to Handle Sleep Regressions Without Losing Your Sanity

by | Mar 3, 2025 |

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HOW TO MANAGE THE CLOCKS SPRINGING FORWARD

HOW TO MANAGE THE CLOCKS SPRINGING FORWARD

by | Feb 27, 2025 | , ,

Twice a year when the clocks change, we are inundated with questions and parents asking what they can do. Although the spring clock change can play havoc with our bodies (an increase in heart attacks and strokes the day after this happen) but it can really help you if you have a little one who likes waking before 5am!

Mother’s Day Gift Guide for Busy Dads or Partners

Mother’s Day Gift Guide for Busy Dads or Partners

by | Mar 12, 2025 | Style

Mother’s Day Gift Guide for Busy Dads or Partners

By Nicola Wood, Founder of Hair Made Easi

Mother’s Day is the perfect time to show your wife or partner how much you appreciate her, especially when juggling family life. If you’re looking for thoughtful yet practical gifts, this guide has you covered.

hair gift ideas

1. Spa-Like Treats – Bring Relaxation Home

Give her the gift of relaxation with these indulgent essentials:

  • A luxurious bath bomb or bubble bath for a soothing soak.
  • Scented candles to create a calming atmosphere.
  • A silk pillowcase for a touch of everyday luxury.
  • The XL Hair Wrap – perfect for quick drying, protecting hair while she relaxes, and keeping it frizz-free overnight.

These small yet thoughtful gifts turn an ordinary evening into a spa-like retreat.

2. Personalised Jewellery – A Sentimental Keepsake

Jewellery with a personal touch makes for a heartfelt gift. Consider a necklace or bracelet engraved with:

  • Her initials or yours together.
  • Your children’s names or birthstones.
  • A meaningful date, like the day she became a mum.

It’s a timeless reminder of love that she can cherish every day.

3. A Meaningful Experience – Create Lasting Memories

Sometimes, shared experiences are the best gifts. Consider:

  • A relaxing afternoon tea or brunch at her favourite spot.
  • A spa day for two (or a solo one just for her!).
  • A family photoshoot to capture special moments.

These experiences show thoughtfulness and create lasting memories.

Hair Made Easi

4. Pamper Essentials Kit – Thoughtful Self-Care

Put together a personalised pamper box with:

This thoughtful selection makes her feel truly appreciated.

5. A Thoughtful Card or Letter – Words from the Heart

Sometimes, the most meaningful gift is a heartfelt note. Take a moment to write a card or letter expressing your love and appreciation. Let her know how much she means to you and the family—words can make the biggest impact.

By mixing sentimental touches with thoughtful gifts, you’ll create a Mother’s Day she’ll truly treasure. 💕

BROOD Magazine Edition 7

BROOD Magazine Annnual Subscription – £26.96

Interview with Mother Pukka – AKA Anna Whitehouse

Interview with Mother Pukka – AKA Anna Whitehouse

by | Apr 14, 2025 | , ,

Anna is formidable in her pursuit for equality in the workplace, fuelled by her passion to ensure that her girls, or any girls, don’t face a future where you can have your career snatched away from you just because you dared to have a baby; sadly this is something that Anna experienced first hand.

School Attendance at an all time low, but what’s the reason?

School Attendance at an all time low, but what’s the reason?

by | Mar 21, 2025 | ,

School attendance is at a crisis level, but the key issue is not a cheaper couple of days at Center Parcs, but the very serious issue educational settings not being able to meet children’s needs be that for children with SEN needs, or the who are experiencing bullying and experiencing anxiety, especially post-Covid and the experience of lockdowns on children and young people.

How to Handle Sleep Regressions Without Losing Your Sanity

How to Handle Sleep Regressions Without Losing Your Sanity

by | Mar 3, 2025 |

Just when it finally feels like sleep is under control thanks to a rigid bedtime routine you made, everything falls apart. The baby who used to sleep through the night is now waking up every hour. Naps are a battle. The bedtime routine that once worked like magic suddenly does nothing. Plus, exhaustion takes over, patience runs thin, and suddenly, drinking coffee feels like a personality trait.

HOW TO MANAGE THE CLOCKS SPRINGING FORWARD

HOW TO MANAGE THE CLOCKS SPRINGING FORWARD

by | Feb 27, 2025 | , ,

Twice a year when the clocks change, we are inundated with questions and parents asking what they can do. Although the spring clock change can play havoc with our bodies (an increase in heart attacks and strokes the day after this happen) but it can really help you if you have a little one who likes waking before 5am!

SPRINGTIME SALAD BY AUNTIE CATH

SPRINGTIME SALAD BY AUNTIE CATH

by | Mar 12, 2025 | Edition 10, Food, Trending

Catherine Tyldesley (or Auntie Cath as she’s often known!) is one of the UKs favourite actresses, but what some people may not know is that Cath’s other huge passion in life is Food! After studying nutrition whilst on maternity leave with her first child, Caths enthusiasm for food grew – especially for nutritious, budget friendly, tasty family meals…

“With a little tease of summer last week I thought I’d share one of my favourite salad recipes with you. This is my spring/summer go to – light and full of fresh ingredients. Feel free to tag me and BROOD into your dishes – ENJOY!” – Catherine Tyldesley

Brood Live

SPRINGTIME SALAD

INGREDIENTS

* 2 tbsp. fresh lemon juice
* 1/2 tsp. Dijon mustard
* 1/4 c. extra-virgin olive oil
* Kosher salt
* Freshly ground black pepper
* 5 c. packed baby spinach (5 oz.)
* 2 rotisserie chicken breasts, cut into 1/2″ pieces
* 2 c. thinly sliced strawberries
* 3/4 c. chopped toasted pecans
* 1/4 small red onion, thinly sliced
* 5 oz. feta, crumbled

 

METHOD

* Step 1


In a large bowl, whisk the lemon juice with the mustard. While whisking, slowly pour in the oil until the dressing is combined. Season with salt and pepper.

* Step 2


Add spinach, chicken, strawberries, ½ cup pecans, and onion to the bowl with the dressing and toss to combine.

* Step 3


Pile salad onto plates and top with the remaining pecans and a generous crumbling of feta.

Interview with Mother Pukka – AKA Anna Whitehouse

Interview with Mother Pukka – AKA Anna Whitehouse

by | Apr 14, 2025 | , ,

Anna is formidable in her pursuit for equality in the workplace, fuelled by her passion to ensure that her girls, or any girls, don’t face a future where you can have your career snatched away from you just because you dared to have a baby; sadly this is something that Anna experienced first hand.

School Attendance at an all time low, but what’s the reason?

School Attendance at an all time low, but what’s the reason?

by | Mar 21, 2025 | ,

School attendance is at a crisis level, but the key issue is not a cheaper couple of days at Center Parcs, but the very serious issue educational settings not being able to meet children’s needs be that for children with SEN needs, or the who are experiencing bullying and experiencing anxiety, especially post-Covid and the experience of lockdowns on children and young people.

How to Handle Sleep Regressions Without Losing Your Sanity

How to Handle Sleep Regressions Without Losing Your Sanity

by | Mar 3, 2025 |

Just when it finally feels like sleep is under control thanks to a rigid bedtime routine you made, everything falls apart. The baby who used to sleep through the night is now waking up every hour. Naps are a battle. The bedtime routine that once worked like magic suddenly does nothing. Plus, exhaustion takes over, patience runs thin, and suddenly, drinking coffee feels like a personality trait.

HOW TO MANAGE THE CLOCKS SPRINGING FORWARD

HOW TO MANAGE THE CLOCKS SPRINGING FORWARD

by | Feb 27, 2025 | , ,

Twice a year when the clocks change, we are inundated with questions and parents asking what they can do. Although the spring clock change can play havoc with our bodies (an increase in heart attacks and strokes the day after this happen) but it can really help you if you have a little one who likes waking before 5am!

Leftover Easter Chocolate BARK Smash!

Leftover Easter Chocolate BARK Smash!

by | Mar 11, 2025 | Edition 10, Edition 2, Featured, Food, Trending

Leftover Easter Chocolate BARK Smash!

Kate’s Leftover Easter Chocolate Smash!

Hello lovely people, I hope you all had a wonderful chocolate bunny filled Easter and enjoyed a well deserved long weekend of rest and delicious food! 

I just wanted to share a little recipe that I’ve made with my kids, to get rid of the left over Easter egg chocolate that sits in the cupboard calling your name every time you walk past! It’s a chocolate bark smash full of lots of healthy ingredients that the kids will love to add along the way. 

 

Ingredients:

  • 200g of milk chocolate – or dark chocolate – at least 70% organic for a healthier snack alternative 
  • 30g of white chocolate for the topping
  • 50g of dried fruit of your choice e.g. raspberries/cherries/goji berries/cranberries
  • 20g of nuts – crushed in a pestle and mortar e.g. pistachio/walnuts/almonds – you can leave the nuts out if you prefer, just add a different dried fruit 

What you will need:

  • Medium saucepan
  • Glass bowl to rest on the top of the saucepan for melting the chocolate
  • Spatula/mixing spoon
  • Medium size baking tray
  • Parchment paper

Method:

  • Weigh out all ingredients before beginning the following process…
  • Place the chocolate in the bowl, grab the saucepan and fill with cold water approx 200ml 
  • Place the bowl of chocolate on top of the saucepan and heat on a medium to high heat
  • When you notice the chocolate begin to melt, stir continuously with a spatula until smooth 
  • In the meantime, cover the baking tray with parchment paper
  • Once the chocolate has fully melted, pour into the baking tray and spread evenly with a spatula approx half to 1cm thick
  • Add the fruit and nuts, spacing evenly. Push any larger piece into the chocolate so they set properly and place in the fridge for 10 mins
  • Meanwhile, melt the topping chocolate the same way as the milk chocolate 
  • When the 10 mins is up, remove from fridge and using a fork, flick the topping chocolate over the bark chocolate and fruit and nut pieces on the baking tray
  • Return back to the fridge for 30 mins or until fully set
  • When set, remove the parchment paper and smash with a rolling pin into snack size pieces
  • Share with family and friends and enjoy!

I also make this as a snack for myself but use dark chocolate (as mentioned above) and leave out the extra chocolate topping. Store these in an airtight container in the fridge and they will last up to a week, although I doubt they’ll be any left after a few days, they’re that delicious!

Ingredients Facts:

  • Chocolate – Some research suggest there may be healthful nutrients belonging to chocolate, including improved immunity, greater longevity and quicker recovery from intense exercise. Dark chocolate without unhealthy additives and sugar have been shown to lower blood pressure, cancer and stroke risk as effectively as antioxidant-rich fruits and vegetables.
  • Raspberries – Packed with antioxidants, potential benefits in regulating metabolism and fighting diseases – contains the antioxidant compound, ellagic acid, which is cancer protective
  • Cherries – Rich in antioxidants, anti-inflammatory and help in the treatment of gout. They also contain melatonin, which helps treat insomnia and encourage good sleep.
  • Cranberries – Again, high in antioxidants, helps prevent infections from taking hold in the urinary tract, kidneys, and bladder. Aids digestion by helping to prevent stomach ulcers, helps alleviate heavy periods, stomach upsets, sore throats and laryngitis.
  • Goji Berries – These berries belong to the nightshade family that includes chilli peppers and tomatoes and are rich in a combination of antioxidant nutrients that benefit cardiovascular health – they contain carotenoids known to boost metabolic processes and promote good sleep and memory.
  • Almonds – Good source of zinc, magnesium, potassium, vitamin E, which supports the brain, cardiovascular and respiratory systems and are rich in cholesterol-lowering monounsaturated fatty acids and help regulate blood sugar levels.
  • Pistachio Nuts – Contain anti-inflammatory properties, high in beta-carotene, oleanolic acid and phytosterols, a type of anti-inflammatory plant hormone associated with improved immune function, lower levels of LDL cholesterol and reduced risk of cancer.
  • Walnuts – Rich source of Alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) and omega-3 fatty acid. ALA helps lower unhealthy cholesterol (LDL) levels and keeps arteries healthy. They contain antioxidants and tocopherols (Vit E complex), helping to reduce the risk of cancer and heart disease and maintain skin and tissue health. They also contain serotonin, a brain chemical that can help lift depression. 

READ MORE FROM KATE HERE

easter egg leftovers
Nutritionist Kate Devine
Easter Eggs Leftover
KATE DEVINE IMAGES ©
Shayne Ward and Sophie Austin
written BY KATE DEVINE

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The perfect healthy pancakes

The perfect healthy pancakes

by | Mar 4, 2025 | Food

Kate’s Perfect Healthy Pancakes

The ‘Perfect’ Healthy Pancakes

Here’s an easy, fun and healthy pancake recipe (or even a morning breakfast recipe) to try with your kids…

I have added a brief summary of some of the amazing nutritional benefits each ingredient has!

Maybe you can share with your kids, what all the different foods they are helping you prepare, can do for our bodies?

Happy cooking!

Pancakes
Official Dad Bag

Makes 8 pancakes

 Ingredients:

  •  2 ripe bananas, peeled – Bananas are rich in potassium which is essential for maintaining healthy blood pressure and helps strengthen bones – they are natural antacids, and contains slow release sugars to help maintain a balanced blood glucose level
  • 100g quinoa flakes – Quinoa is highly regarded as nature’s most complete plant food as it contains amino acids, enzymes, vitamins and minerals, fibre, anti-oxidants and phytonutrients – it is also high in protein and naturally gluten free
  • 180ml of nut milk – Almond/coconut etc or milk of your choice – rich in beneficial fats
  • 1 organic egg – contains protein, omega-3 fats, high in vitamins, zinc, magnesium, calcium and dietary cholesterol (good cholesterol)
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract – Vanilla extract is a powerful anti-oxidant, has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties and helps improve mental health
  • 2 tsp ground cinnamon – Cinnamon is a digestive aid that helps reduce the risk of heart disease and diabetes – it is also a first-class antiseptic that can help fight bacteria, viruses and fungal infections – it is rich in anti-oxidants, which gives it a mild analgesic and anti-inflammatory effect
  • 1.5 tsp baking powder – while baking powder contains few vitamins and minerals, it still plays a role in maintaining healthy teeth, bones and nails
  • Small pinch of Pink Himalayan salt – contains more than 80 minerals including potassium, iron and calcium which aid the bodies natural detoxification process and promote the removal of bacteria
  • 2 tsps organic maple syrup – sweeter than sugar so a little goes a long way – it is nutrient rich and full of minerals
  • 1.5-2 tbsp coconut oil – high in healthy fats – medium chain triglycerides (MCTs) – which can help lower risk of heart disease and help with weight management by reducing appetite, boosting metabolism, and increasing activity of fat burning cells

 

Topping options:

  • 100g mixed berries/spoonful of Greek yoghurt/coconut yoghurt/crushed pistachios/drizzle of maple syrup
  • 2 apples, grated/sprinkling of ground cinnamon/spoonful of toasted flaked almonds

 

Method:

  • Place all ingredients for the pancakes (except oil) in a blender and whizz for around 30 seconds – alternatively, mash bananas with a fork and mix in a jug with remaining ingredients
  • Melt the oil in a large frying pan on a high heat
  • Spoon about 3 tbsp of the batter into the pan and circle about 1cm thick and 8cm wide. Repeat to make more pancakes, depending on the size of the pan
  • Reduce the heat to medium and leave the pancakes to set for round 1 min. When they start to bubble, flip each one over and cook for 1 min on the other side
  • Remove from the pan and repeat with the rest of the batter. Use a little more oil each time until you’ve made 8 pancakes (you do not have to eat them all, they can be kept in the fridge for 2 days, or frozen – pop them in the oven or fry in a pan to reheat)
  • Serve as is, add toppings recommended above or toppings of your choice.

written BY KATE DEVINE

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Please select all the ways you would like to hear from Brood Magazine:
You can unsubscribe at any time by clicking the link in the footer of our emails. For information about our privacy practices, please visit our website.
We use Mailchimp as our marketing platform. By clicking below to subscribe, you acknowledge that your information will be transferred to Mailchimp for processing. Learn more about Mailchimp's privacy practices here.

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Simple Tips for Keeping Your Teeth Healthy Every Day

Simple Tips for Keeping Your Teeth Healthy Every Day

by | Mar 3, 2025 | Balance, Featured

Simple Tips for Keeping Your Teeth Healthy Every Day

_

Simple Tips for Keeping Your Teeth Healthy Every Day

Parents want their little ones to adopt healthy habits as soon as they can walk, and nowhere is there greater emphasis than personal hygiene. Brushing our teeth and washing our hands is something we’re all shown how to do when we are toddlers, and with good reason. But there is something that is commonly overlooked. 

Health professionals like dentists have the ability to influence the behaviour of their patients with demonstrations and clear explanations, and yet the basics still get missed. We’re going to approach this guide with a dual perspective — talking to dental practitioners and hardworking parents — so that we can make sure the basics are never overlooked again. 

The importance of experts

Ask a dentist what they wish they could communicate to a patient and it would be these three things: 

  • Certain foods will damage your teeth, regardless of how much you brush and rinse
  • Flossing and using mouthwash should be done throughout the day — twice-daily brushing is not enough 
  • Consistency is the name of the game when you want to be proactive when it comes to dental hygiene

The issue is that too few patients take heed of what their dentist is telling them, quickly falling back into old habits within a few days of their appointment. A quick look online will reveal so-called ‘instant fixes’ like DIY whitening treatments that, while potentially useful, are not solving the fundamental issues the patient has. The key is for dentists to actively recommend innovative products that really work. 

Recommending the right dental equipment 

Any practice that provides a quick demo at the end of each appointment will be able to dramatically improve patient outcomes, satisfaction, and retention rates. Showing a patient how to brush, and then recommending a specific type of brush, is something that will stick in their mind so much more than a few passing remarks during a deep clean. 

Dentists are also increasingly recommending more specialist brushes designed to access areas that are off-limits when using traditional brushes. The rise in popularity of interdental brushes is something that should be embraced by modern practices and health-aware patients. By being able to clean the gaps between teeth that can quickly cause gum pockets to develop, patients can take back control of their dental hygiene the smart way. 

Another key point to note here is that dentists who are willing to provide a demonstration and make a recommendation can access a new revenue stream. If a patient is sold on the simplicity and efficacy of a new style of brush, they will be primed to make a purchase before leaving the practice. Having the brushes on display at the reception desk is the smart way to provide a gentle nudge for sales that won’t overwhelm a patient who has just climbed out of the dentist’s chair.

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Focusing on daily consistency

Dentists who repeat the same core messaging at the end of every appointment will be able to improve patient outcomes. Likewise, patients who consistently put this expert advice into practice will be able to protect their teeth and keep their smiles shining for many years to come. Exactly what everyone wants to hear, regardless of which side of the table they’re sitting on. 

Parents who pass this information to their little ones and get them into good habits early will be setting them up for life. Studies have shown that children who are taken to a skilled and trusted dental practice in their local area, and who have conscientious parents, will likely use the same practice when they reach adulthood. 

The good news for dental practices is that by preaching the importance of consistent habits, they can make themselves much more approachable. Teenagers who then become adults will think nothing of staying with their local dentist because they will trust their advice and have seen their skills firsthand for many years. 

What happens next?

If you are a parent or a patient, scheduling your next dental checkup should be your next port of call. If you are a practice manager looking to grow your business, connecting with a trusted national supplier will help you expand into other revenue streams. By having the exact products you’re recommending your patients use in stock, you can upsell dozens of times a day simply by having them on offer in reception. Ideal when you want to be able to grow your practice by accessing new sources of revenue that competing practices may well be overlooking. 

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BROOD Magazine Edition 7
Interview with Mother Pukka – AKA Anna Whitehouse

Interview with Mother Pukka – AKA Anna Whitehouse

by | Apr 14, 2025 | , ,

Anna is formidable in her pursuit for equality in the workplace, fuelled by her passion to ensure that her girls, or any girls, don’t face a future where you can have your career snatched away from you just because you dared to have a baby; sadly this is something that Anna experienced first hand.

School Attendance at an all time low, but what’s the reason?

School Attendance at an all time low, but what’s the reason?

by | Mar 21, 2025 | ,

School attendance is at a crisis level, but the key issue is not a cheaper couple of days at Center Parcs, but the very serious issue educational settings not being able to meet children’s needs be that for children with SEN needs, or the who are experiencing bullying and experiencing anxiety, especially post-Covid and the experience of lockdowns on children and young people.

How to Handle Sleep Regressions Without Losing Your Sanity

How to Handle Sleep Regressions Without Losing Your Sanity

by | Mar 3, 2025 |

Just when it finally feels like sleep is under control thanks to a rigid bedtime routine you made, everything falls apart. The baby who used to sleep through the night is now waking up every hour. Naps are a battle. The bedtime routine that once worked like magic suddenly does nothing. Plus, exhaustion takes over, patience runs thin, and suddenly, drinking coffee feels like a personality trait.

HOW TO MANAGE THE CLOCKS SPRINGING FORWARD

HOW TO MANAGE THE CLOCKS SPRINGING FORWARD

by | Feb 27, 2025 | , ,

Twice a year when the clocks change, we are inundated with questions and parents asking what they can do. Although the spring clock change can play havoc with our bodies (an increase in heart attacks and strokes the day after this happen) but it can really help you if you have a little one who likes waking before 5am!

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How to Handle Sleep Regressions Without Losing Your Sanity

How to Handle Sleep Regressions Without Losing Your Sanity

by | Mar 3, 2025 | Featured

How to Handle Sleep Regressions Without Losing Your Sanity

_

How to Handle Sleep Regressions Without Losing Your Sanity

Just when it finally feels like sleep is under control thanks to a rigid bedtime routine you made, everything falls apart. The baby who used to sleep through the night is now waking up every hour. Naps are a battle. The bedtime routine that once worked like magic suddenly does nothing. Plus, exhaustion takes over, patience runs thin, and suddenly, drinking coffee feels like a personality trait.

Well, this is the dreaded sleep regression. It sneaks up out of nowhere, wrecks everything, and leaves parents questioning their life choices (even if they did absolutely nothing wrong). But before the panic sets in, take a deep breath (sure maybe a tad easier said than done). Sleep regressions are temporary. They’re frustrating, exhausting, and at times, soul-crushing, but they always pass. But the trick is knowing how to survive them without completely losing it.

Why Babies Do This?

Well, sure, it might feel like the baby is doing this on purpose, but there is actual science behind it. For starters, sleep regressions show up at four months, eight to ten months, 12 months, 18 months, and two years because babies are going through big developmental leaps. Their little brains are working overtime learning new skills, and sleep takes a backseat.

The four-month sleep regression is the first major disaster, where newborn sleep patterns disappear and babies wake up more often between sleep cycles. The eight- to ten-month regression comes with crawling, standing, and the realization that they can scream louder than expected. So, by 12 months, they are too busy exploring the world to bother with naps.

Then comes the toddler phase, where sleep turns into a power struggle (well, technically everything is a struggle at this point). At 18 months, they test limits just because they can. The two-year regression? Well, that’s when bedtime stalls become a full-blown sport. For example, those little requests for one more bedtime story, one more sip of water, or one more hug turn into an endless cycle of delaying sleep.

But generally speaking, just keep in mind that babies don’t wake up at night to ruin lives, even though it might feel that way. They are just trying to process all the new things they are learning.

What NOT to Do

Now sure, sleep regressions make it very tempting to try anything and everything just to get a few hours of rest. This is where the biggest mistakes happen (basically massive ones happen).

BROOD Magazine Edition 7
Parent Sleeping

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Believe it or not, but bringing the baby into bed, rocking them to sleep every time they stir, or introducing new habits out of desperation can backfire hard. But how? Well, what starts as a quick fix turns into a long-term problem. A baby who gets used to being held until they fall asleep will expect that every single time they wake up. The same goes for feeding them back to sleep when hunger is not the issue.

It is survival mode, but at the same time, it s a trap. Thankfully, sleep regressions only last a few weeks, but habits last much longer. But the key is to stay consistent, even when it feels impossible.

But What Can Save Your Sanity?

Well, it goes back to right above, sleep regression is pretty temporary and you can’t try new habits. Basically, if bath, book, and cuddles worked before, stick with it.

The environment matters too. Now chances are, you were already doing this, but a dark room, white noise, and a comfortable sleep space signal that it is time to rest. Some babies at this stage start waking up because they are outgrowing certain sleep habits, which is when many parents start wondering when to stop using a sleep sack for your baby. Plus, ff they are rolling more, trying to stand, or acting like the sleep sack is “cramping their style”, it may be time to switch to a blanket or a different sleep option.

The baby will resist at first because babies hate change. The trick is to out-stubborn them.

Nap Resistance

One of the most frustrating parts of a sleep regression is when a baby suddenly decides naps are optional. But they’re not. A baby who refuses to nap is not ready to drop naps completely, even if they think they are. What usually happens is they are so busy learning new skills that they fight sleep just because they can.

But the best way to deal with this is to stick to quiet time, even if they aren’t sleeping. Just keep the space relaxing (and predictable) for them. Plus, giving up on naps completely backfires at night, making the bedtime struggle even worse. It might take longer for naps to happen, and some days they might not happen at all (unfortunately), but the key is to keep offering them. 

Eventually, the baby will crash out of exhaustion, and sleep will start balancing out again.

What About Night Wakings?

This might be the worst of them all, right? It’s like the newborn phase all over again. But yeah, middle-of-the-night wake-ups during a sleep regression feel personal. One second, they are sleeping soundly, and the next, they are wide awake, crying like they have never slept before.

So, the instinct is to rush in and fix it, but pausing for a moment can be a good idea. Babies cycle through sleep stages, and sometimes they fuss for a few minutes before settling back down. So, if you think about it, running in at the first sound can actually wake them up more. But of course, every baby is different, but responding consistently without overstimulating makes it easier for them to adjust.

How to Keep It Together, Even When It Feels Impossible

By all means, sleep regressions are rough. The exhaustion, frustration, and feeling of running on fumes can make it seem like sleep will never return. This is the part where self-care actually matters. If a partner is available, tag them in, maybe even ask your partner if you have one. Some people will use night time nanny services, so this could even be an option. 

But the biggest sanity-saver is keeping perspective. It feels never-ending, but it is not. It might last for a month to a month in a half at most.

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Interview with Mother Pukka – AKA Anna Whitehouse

Interview with Mother Pukka – AKA Anna Whitehouse

by | Apr 14, 2025 | , ,

Anna is formidable in her pursuit for equality in the workplace, fuelled by her passion to ensure that her girls, or any girls, don’t face a future where you can have your career snatched away from you just because you dared to have a baby; sadly this is something that Anna experienced first hand.

School Attendance at an all time low, but what’s the reason?

School Attendance at an all time low, but what’s the reason?

by | Mar 21, 2025 | ,

School attendance is at a crisis level, but the key issue is not a cheaper couple of days at Center Parcs, but the very serious issue educational settings not being able to meet children’s needs be that for children with SEN needs, or the who are experiencing bullying and experiencing anxiety, especially post-Covid and the experience of lockdowns on children and young people.

How to Handle Sleep Regressions Without Losing Your Sanity

How to Handle Sleep Regressions Without Losing Your Sanity

by | Mar 3, 2025 |

Just when it finally feels like sleep is under control thanks to a rigid bedtime routine you made, everything falls apart. The baby who used to sleep through the night is now waking up every hour. Naps are a battle. The bedtime routine that once worked like magic suddenly does nothing. Plus, exhaustion takes over, patience runs thin, and suddenly, drinking coffee feels like a personality trait.

HOW TO MANAGE THE CLOCKS SPRINGING FORWARD

HOW TO MANAGE THE CLOCKS SPRINGING FORWARD

by | Feb 27, 2025 | , ,

Twice a year when the clocks change, we are inundated with questions and parents asking what they can do. Although the spring clock change can play havoc with our bodies (an increase in heart attacks and strokes the day after this happen) but it can really help you if you have a little one who likes waking before 5am!

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HOW TO MANAGE THE CLOCKS SPRINGING FORWARD

HOW TO MANAGE THE CLOCKS SPRINGING FORWARD

by | Feb 27, 2025 | Balance, Edition 10, Featured

HOW TO MANAGE THE CLOCKS SPRINGING FORWARD THIS WEEKEND

Twice a year when the clocks change, we are inundated with questions and parents asking what they can do. Although the spring clock change can play havoc with our bodies (an increase in heart attacks and strokes the day after this happen) but it can really help you if you have a little one who likes waking before 5am!

If you happen to have an early riser just don’t take any action and stick to their current body clock – this means that the clocks change but their body clock wont and 5am magically became 6am!

If, however, your routine works for you we have a guide for how to mange the upcoming clock change, depending upon the age of your little one!

For all little ones (and us adults):

Bear in mind that the clock change also brings lighter evenings. This may nt be as much of an issue for us as adults but your little one may be going to bed when it is very light outside. With this in mind, we recommend you make your child’s bedroom as dark as possible to limit any sunlight coming into their room which could make it difficult for them to fall/stay asleep. Ideally a 10/10 for darkness until they become a toddler and may need a little night light if they are scared of the dark.

Using something like a blackout blind or even blackout card/material over the window can be really helpful to block any residual light.

Daylight is the best regulator of our circadian rhythms (body clock) so ensure your little one, and you, get outside to use the daylight to help your body clock adjust.

Overall, it can take about a week for children and babies to completely adjust to a new time, some children can take up to a month. Be patient and remain consistent and it will happen!

Older children:

For children who are no longer napping we would advise you ‘split the difference’ between the old time and the new time. You don’t have to do anything until Sunday morning (and pretend you have a lie in) so start on Sunday night (first night of the change). Put your child to bed 30 minutes ‘later’ than they would usually go to bed – as an example, if their usual bedtime was 7pm you would put them to bed at 7.30pm (new ‘springtime’) instead. Do this for 3 nights and then on the 4th night put them to bed at the normal time – 7pm.

It may take a week or so to adjust (our body clocks can take it’s own sweet time) but persevere and try not to get involved too much after you have put your little one to bed It may take a little longer for them to fall asleep but, if they are happy, just leave them to it and they will naturally adjust.

Toddlers (over 1 and older):

These little ones will still be taking naps but, again, you don’t need to do anything until Sunday nap time. If they have two naps, put them down for their first nap 30 minutes later than normal. For example, if they usually nap at 9.30am you would put them down at 10am instead and do the same for the afternoon nap.

At bedtime if you usually put them down at 7pm, move this by 30mins and put them down at 7.30pm. Do this for 3 nights after the time change and then on the 4th night put them to bed at the normal time of 7pm. You can then move nap times back to normal on day 5. Again, it may take a week or so to adjust but try not to get involved too much after you have put your little one into their cot. It may take a little longer for them to fall asleep but, if they are happy, just leave them to it and they will naturally adjust. 

Infants (between 4-12 months):

For little ones of this age, we can change their internal body clock a little more gradually. They will be having between 2-4 naps per day so we will move nap time by 15 minutes each day until they are on their ‘usual’ nap time by Thursday.

You would also do the same for bedtime, if their bedtime is normally 7pm then move bedtime 15 minutes earlier each night until you reach their normal time. So, on Sunday night you would put them down at 7.45pm (‘new springtime’), next night at 7.30pm and so on. By the fourth night you should be back to their ‘normal’ time of 7pm.

Newborns:

These little ones have not developed sleep cycles or melatonin so you will find their sleep is much less predictable. If you have a newborn you can simply just jump to the new time on Sunday night as if you were traveling to a new time zone. It may take your little one a little longer to fall asleep which is expected as they might not be as tired to start with but just allow them to fall asleep independently, as much as you can.

If you are having any trouble with any aspect of your child’s sleep please do get in touch with Little Dreams Consulting – we would love to help you all get a better night’s sleep.

About Little Dreams Consulting:

Established by Jenna Wilson, a former solicitor, in 2016, Little Dreams Consulting is an award-winning baby and child sleep consultancy based in Bristol. It works with tired parents around the UK to help everybody get a better night’s sleep.

Having proved the business is profitable and sustainable, Little Dreams launched their British Franchise Association accredited and award winning franchise in December 2021 and now has 4 franchisees working around the UK. If a new career you can be proud of, whilst changing the lives of sleep deprived families, is something you have been looking for get in touch with Jenna or download a prospectus here: (Franchise Your Own Sleep Consultant Business for Children (littledreamsconsulting.com)

 

How to Reduce Operating Costs in Business

How to Reduce Operating Costs in Business

by | Feb 22, 2025 | Featured, Work

How to Reduce Operating Costs in Your Business

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How to Reduce Operating Costs in Your Business

No matter the size or industry of your business, reducing operational costs is crucial to improving profitability and long-term sustainability. Streamlining expenses not only boosts your bottom line but also allows you to reinvest in growth opportunities. By leveraging tools like data analysis and even simple visual aids, such as a line graph maker, you can track progress and make informed decisions to manage costs effectively. This guide will walk you through practical strategies to cut down on operating expenses and foster a cost-conscious culture in your organisation.

Evaluate and Analyse Current Expenses

Before you can reduce costs, you need to understand where your money is going. Evaluating your current expenses will highlight high-cost areas that need attention.

Identify High-Cost Areas

Start by conducting a financial audit to pinpoint where the majority of your funds are being spent. Focus on recurring expenses such as payroll, utilities, inventory, and administrative costs.

Leverage Your Data

Go beyond general observations—dig into financial data to identify inefficiencies. Modern tools can help you break down costs and reveal areas for improvement.

Streamline Operational Processes

Increasing efficiency within your operations not only saves time but also cuts costs significantly.

Eliminate Inefficiencies

Analyse your workflows and processes to identify bottlenecks or redundant steps. Automating repetitive tasks, like data entry or invoicing, can help streamline operations while reducing labour costs.

Outsource Non-Essential Tasks

Consider outsourcing functions such as accounting, customer service, or IT to specialised third-party providers. These tasks are often more cost-effective when handled externally, as it eliminates the need for additional hires and training.

Adopt Lean Management Techniques

By applying lean principles, you can minimise waste and focus on value-adding processes. For example, reducing the time taken to process orders or eliminating unnecessary meetings can significantly enhance productivity.

BROOD Magazine Edition 7
How to Reduce Operating Costs in Your Business

Optimise Your Supply Chain

An optimised supply chain can result in substantial cost savings for any business.

Negotiate Better Deals

Reach out to your current suppliers and negotiate better rates, especially for long-standing contracts. Don’t hesitate to explore alternative suppliers to get competitive quotes.

Consolidate Purchases

Buying in bulk or consolidating orders can lower per-unit costs and reduce shipping fees. However, ensure that this doesn’t lead to overstocking.

Manage Inventory More Efficiently

Improving inventory turnover can save money on storage costs. Analyse sales patterns and adjust inventory levels accordingly to avoid holding excess stock.

Use Technology to Cut Costs

Emerging technologies can help businesses save costs while improving efficiency and productivity.

Adopt Cloud Computing

Switch to cloud-based services to reduce expenses on IT infrastructure. Platforms like Google Workspace or Microsoft 365 can provide cost-effective solutions for collaboration and data storage.

Automate Tasks

Utilise automation tools to handle repetitive tasks, from payroll tracking to email campaigns. AI-powered solutions can reduce human error and free up your staff for high-value work.

Invest in Energy-Efficient Solutions

Energy-efficient equipment can make a big difference in utility costs. Consider switching to LED lighting, using energy-efficient appliances or implementing office-wide sustainability measures, like shutting systems down when not in use.

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How to Reduce Operating Costs in Your Business

Cut Labour Costs Without Sacrificing Quality

Reducing labour expenses doesn’t mean compromising on output or employee satisfaction.

Cross-Train Your Employees

Train your employees for multiple roles within your organisation. This ensures maximum versatility and reduces the need for additional hires during peak seasons.

Hire Temporary Workers

Consider bringing in freelance or temporary workers for short-term projects or to fill in during peak times. This approach eliminates the costs associated with long-term full-time employment.

Encourage Remote Work

Allowing employees to work remotely can cut overhead costs, such as rent, utilities, and equipment. A hybrid or fully remote model could be a win-win for both your business and employees.

Review and Renegotiate Existing Contracts

Revisiting your current service agreements can uncover hidden opportunities for saving.

Reassess Contracts

Regularly review contracts with service providers, such as cleaning companies, marketing agencies, or insurance providers. Better rates or alternatives might now be available.

Switch to Fixed-Price Agreements

Whenever possible, opt for fixed-price contracts to cap unforeseen expenses, especially when working with vendors and service providers.

Monitor Results and Track Progress

Continually tracking and analysing your efforts is key to ensuring your cost-cutting strategies are effective.

Set Clear Objectives

Define realistic goals for cost reduction. Clear targets provide a framework for evaluating success and maintaining direction across all departments.

Visualise Progress with a Line Graph Maker

Create visual representations of your cost-reduction efforts using a line graph maker. These graphs allow you to easily track spending trends or compare before-and-after scenarios to assess impact quickly.

Share Results with Your Team

Communicate progress with your employees to keep them engaged and motivated. Celebrate milestones as a team to reinforce the value of collective cost-saving efforts.

Foster a Cost-Conscious Culture

Lastly, a successful cost-reduction initiative requires the commitment of everyone in the organisation.

Encourage Employee Participation

Seek input from your employees—they often have first-hand insights into inefficiencies or creative solutions. Actively involving them promotes ownership and a shared commitment to the company’s goals.

Reward Cost-Saving Efforts

Recognise employees who contribute significantly to cost-saving initiatives. Whether it’s through financial incentives or public recognition, showing appreciation fosters continued engagement and innovation.

Cultivate Continuous Improvement

Encourage a mindset of ongoing efficiency within your team. Regularly revisit your processes to identify more opportunities for savings and growth.

Step Into a More Efficient Future

Implementing these strategies to reduce operating expenses can directly improve profitability and create more resources for business expansion. Tools like a line graph maker will not only help track financial progress but also provide an easy way to share your results with stakeholders and employees.

By fostering a cost-conscious culture and continuously assessing your operations, your organisation is well-positioned for long-term sustainability and success. Start taking small, actionable steps today—because small changes can lead to big savings.

 

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Interview with Mother Pukka – AKA Anna Whitehouse

Interview with Mother Pukka – AKA Anna Whitehouse

by | Apr 14, 2025 | , ,

Anna is formidable in her pursuit for equality in the workplace, fuelled by her passion to ensure that her girls, or any girls, don’t face a future where you can have your career snatched away from you just because you dared to have a baby; sadly this is something that Anna experienced first hand.

School Attendance at an all time low, but what’s the reason?

School Attendance at an all time low, but what’s the reason?

by | Mar 21, 2025 | ,

School attendance is at a crisis level, but the key issue is not a cheaper couple of days at Center Parcs, but the very serious issue educational settings not being able to meet children’s needs be that for children with SEN needs, or the who are experiencing bullying and experiencing anxiety, especially post-Covid and the experience of lockdowns on children and young people.

How to Handle Sleep Regressions Without Losing Your Sanity

How to Handle Sleep Regressions Without Losing Your Sanity

by | Mar 3, 2025 |

Just when it finally feels like sleep is under control thanks to a rigid bedtime routine you made, everything falls apart. The baby who used to sleep through the night is now waking up every hour. Naps are a battle. The bedtime routine that once worked like magic suddenly does nothing. Plus, exhaustion takes over, patience runs thin, and suddenly, drinking coffee feels like a personality trait.

HOW TO MANAGE THE CLOCKS SPRINGING FORWARD

HOW TO MANAGE THE CLOCKS SPRINGING FORWARD

by | Feb 27, 2025 | , ,

Twice a year when the clocks change, we are inundated with questions and parents asking what they can do. Although the spring clock change can play havoc with our bodies (an increase in heart attacks and strokes the day after this happen) but it can really help you if you have a little one who likes waking before 5am!

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How To Build A Successful Website That Gets Noticed In 2025

How To Build A Successful Website That Gets Noticed In 2025

by | Feb 21, 2025 | Featured, Work

How To Build A Successful Website That Gets Noticed In 2025

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How To Build A Successful Website That Gets Noticed In 2025

Building a website in a digital domain where there are over a billion of them in existence, is quite the challenge. With so many websites competing for the top spots or any ranking on search engines, it’s essential you do everything possible to build a great website from scratch.

Whether you’re a new business starting up or you’re an established business that’s looking to introduce itself to the digital domain, here are several tips on how to build a successful website that gets noticed in 2025.

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How to build a successful website

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The importance of building a strong website with an online presence

As it’s already been mentioned, building a strong website that has a great online presence will do wonders for your business. With so much happening online nowadays and businesses gravitating to a more digital-forward way of working, there are many benefits to focusing your attention on updating an existing website or building a new one.

Increased credibility

Improving the credibility of your business is always a benefit worth having. By improving your credibility, you make it easier for your new customers or prospective leads to take the plunge and trust your business with their hard-earned money.

Expands your reach

Expanding your reach has become an incredible benefit for many businesses that might have only existed locally or within their own country. For some businesses now, they’ve managed to tread the boards across the sea and exist for customers in multiple countries.

 

Being able to expand your reach gives you unlimited potential for improving sales and awareness of the brand.

Improves brand awareness

Brand awareness is something that is worthwhile having, especially when there’s so much competition online to pick from. Customers are in a privileged position of having the pick of businesses to choose from, which is why you need to be able to stand out as a company to attract all of the customers.

Helpful for SEO purposes

Search engine optimisation helps to boost your online presence and by following the best practices, you give yourself ample opportunity to get higher on the search engine.

 

While it might seem alien if you’re not familiar with SEO, it’s easy to learn the basics and outsource it where required.

Enhanced customer engagement

Customer engagement is an important one, especially when it comes to keeping your customers loyal to the brand and business in general. With a great website, you’re going to see an improvement in how engaged your customers are as a result.

Reduces marketing costs

Reducing marketing costs is always a good way to save some money and when it comes to running a new business, it’s important

8 tips to build a successful website that gets noticed

Building a successful website takes an understanding of your audience, using the right software, and knowing what will help make it relevant in relation to the rest of the internet. Here are eight tips to help inspire and build a website that gets your business noticed in 2025.

  1. Get to know your audience

First and foremost, you want to get to know your audience. Who are they? Do you have buyer personas that create clear profiles for who your audience is, what they enjoy, etc? The more you know about your audience, the more you can influence the design of your website for them specifically.

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grow your audience

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The design and functionality of your website should be suited to your ideal customers. Whether that’s the type of font you choose or the layout and colour schemes, there’s a lot to think about when it comes to adapting a site design that appeals to your audience.

 

To get a better insight into your customers, get to know your audience in general. Do focus groups, conduct feedback opportunities, and get suggestions on what your typical customer looks for when navigating a website in 2025.

  1. Create a backlog of content ready for publishing

When it comes to building a successful website, you want to ensure there’s a backlog of content ready to publish, even if the site has launched already. The content you publish needs to be high-quality and SEO optimised – more information on that in the next point. 

 

It’s certainly useful to have a blog element to your site, that way you have an opportunity to always put new content out on the internet. That helps to boost your ranking as a result. While you might have new landing pages such as product pages or announcements, these might not be as frequent, which is why blogs are a usual feature for a lot of company sites.

 

By creating a backlog of content, you get ahead of yourself and provide consistency within your content schedule by being ahead in what’s already written and ready to go.

  1. Optimise with effective SEO practices

SEO, as mentioned above, is a crucial part of building a successful website and that’s why it’s important to incorporate it into your strategy when building the website or updating it.

 

The more you optimise your website with effective SEO practices, the better your site is likely to perform via Google’s search engine. For example, think about adding internal and external links throughout your website’s pages. 

 

Look to add in media that is engaging but isn’t going to slow down your site’s speed, as that can put users off. Consider bounce rate – the rate at which customers spend on your site before going off it – and improve it where required.

 

There are many different SEO practices you could get started on in order to improve your efforts to climb up the search engine rankings.

  1. Make sure the website design is responsive on all devices

Your website design needs to be responsive on all devices. That means not just desktops and laptops but also mobile devices and tablets. A lot of businesses don’t make their sites mobile-friendly and as such, lose their users.

 

It might not be something you’ve considered, but not using mobile-friendly websites or designs when most people nowadays use their smartphones for browsing online is short-sighted.

 

With that being said, make sure your website functions via mobile just like it does on any other device. If it doesn’t, then you’re going to want to update it where possible to ensure it functions correctly. This might mean you have to remove one or two functionalities currently on the main site for it to work.

  1. Create a cohesive branding that’s recognisable

Branding is highly important, especially as it takes multiple interactions with a user before they recognise the brand. 

 

Cohesive branding should be cohesive, meaning it looks the same whether it’s on your website, social media, or any marketing materials you put out into the world, online or offline.

 

Is that cohesive branding currently in place across your company assets? If not, then make sure it’s something to change as you build or update your website. By keeping it cohesive, it’ll take less time for users to recognise you from the times before and ultimately improve the interactions they have with the business from then on out.

  1. Integrate your socials

Integrating your socials is a great method of promoting your business across all of your channels. While your website might be the main contact for customers and new users alike, your social media handles might also be where customers are originating from. 

 

social media

Image Source

Therefore, you should look to integrate your socials, making sure all of your platforms are connected to other social media handles. Do this with your website too by putting the icons of your social media feeds at the bottom or top of the page. This will allow for easy navigation back and forth from your website to your social media profiles.

  1. Add a chatbot service for customer interactions

Chatbots are great for businesses, especially when the demand for interactions is going beyond what your internal resources can provide right now. If you’re revolutionising chat bot for business, make sure you add as much knowledge to your knowledge base as possible for the chatbot technology to work from.

 

That way, your chatbots will be more knowledgeable about answering questions, even if they’re quite complex. The more questions the chatbots can answer, the lighter the workload will be for your customer support agents.

  1. Utilise analytics to track your website’s traffic and general performance

Finally, make sure you’re implementing some form of user analytics to understand how much of your traffic is coming from various external sources. You’ll be able to get a deeper insight into who your users are, and how they’re interacting with the site, and from this you can make the necessary improvements.

 

Analytics software is for the most part, free to use. However, there are some tools and platforms worth paying a small premium for in order to get better insights where necessary.

 

With these tips, you’ll be able to build up a successful website that gets your brand and business noticed in 2025. Use these tips to leverage your success and improve upon your website too.

BROOD Live
Interview with Mother Pukka – AKA Anna Whitehouse

Interview with Mother Pukka – AKA Anna Whitehouse

by | Apr 14, 2025 | , ,

Anna is formidable in her pursuit for equality in the workplace, fuelled by her passion to ensure that her girls, or any girls, don’t face a future where you can have your career snatched away from you just because you dared to have a baby; sadly this is something that Anna experienced first hand.

School Attendance at an all time low, but what’s the reason?

School Attendance at an all time low, but what’s the reason?

by | Mar 21, 2025 | ,

School attendance is at a crisis level, but the key issue is not a cheaper couple of days at Center Parcs, but the very serious issue educational settings not being able to meet children’s needs be that for children with SEN needs, or the who are experiencing bullying and experiencing anxiety, especially post-Covid and the experience of lockdowns on children and young people.

How to Handle Sleep Regressions Without Losing Your Sanity

How to Handle Sleep Regressions Without Losing Your Sanity

by | Mar 3, 2025 |

Just when it finally feels like sleep is under control thanks to a rigid bedtime routine you made, everything falls apart. The baby who used to sleep through the night is now waking up every hour. Naps are a battle. The bedtime routine that once worked like magic suddenly does nothing. Plus, exhaustion takes over, patience runs thin, and suddenly, drinking coffee feels like a personality trait.

HOW TO MANAGE THE CLOCKS SPRINGING FORWARD

HOW TO MANAGE THE CLOCKS SPRINGING FORWARD

by | Feb 27, 2025 | , ,

Twice a year when the clocks change, we are inundated with questions and parents asking what they can do. Although the spring clock change can play havoc with our bodies (an increase in heart attacks and strokes the day after this happen) but it can really help you if you have a little one who likes waking before 5am!

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Landscaping Renovations That’ll Help You Sell your Home

Landscaping Renovations That’ll Help You Sell your Home

by | Feb 20, 2025 | Guest Feature, Style

Landscaping Renovations That’ll Help You Sell

By Guest Contributor
_

First impressions are everything and if you’re hoping to sell your house this year then it’s the first impressions you’ve got to rely on to make it sell. One of the first things that prospective buyers will always notice when they tour a house is the landscaping because that’s the thing that’s going to welcome them to the property. 

Whether it’s trimmed hedges or maintaining flower beds, it’s important to make sure that you have thoughtful decisions made when working on exterior home and yard renovations. You should be doing everything possible to ensure that your home is going to sell at the right price, and that means looking at landscaping renovations first and foremost. Before you start pulling out the lawn mower and the electric weed eater, you may know a local landscaping company who can help you out. 

Having your garden look exactly the way you want it to look is one thing, but having it look good enough to sell the house is another. Let’s take a look at these landscaping considerations so that you can up your curb appeal and make your house sell quickly.

BROOD Magazine Edition 7
Landscaping that will help sell

Image source: Pexels

  1. Design your landscaping based on the architecture and build. Before you do any landscape renovations, you should take a look at the style of your house from the opposite side of the road. When it’s installed well, landscaping can really complement the home’s details, but you have to make sure that it matches the material of your house, the style of your house and where the. For example, if you’re standing out on the street and looking up at the house, where does your eye immediately go to? You want to make sure that the landscaping can be featured at that height. Too much landscaping can take away from the beautiful details of a naturally old house, but complimenting an older home with a few large trees and surrounding the foundation with brightly coloured flowers can make all the difference.
  2. Go with shape and height. When you’re planning your landscaping renovation, you need to bring in some curves and height throughout the lawn so that you can improve the curb appeal and make it look more attractive. This will help to create balance in your yard and enhance the surrounding fencing or retaining walls to make your landscape more modern. You want to separate flower beds and grass with edging and retaining walls, and you want to make sure that the landscaping itself is free of any weeds. If your roof is lower, consider smaller trees that don’t go above that roofline. 
  3. Choose a long lasting style. You should always add plants to your garden that last in your local climate. You want to make sure that you have the right temperatures for your garden so that you’re not constantly having to dig it out and dig it out. Get in touch with local nurseries and consult with which plants work best in your region so that you can ensure that you are using plants that will last.
  4. Water it. To use your irrigation system to maintain that curb appeal, you need your garden to really grow, and you need it to look pretty at the same time. We don’t always have enough time to water our plants, but irrigation systems that are equipped with timers and water gauges, as well as moisture sensors can really keep your lawn looking bright and beautiful. You want that pristine look without the hassle, so installing one in your yard can give you a ton of benefits such as consistent watering, eliminating any uneven water distribution, and timed watering too.
  5. Think about privacy. Landscaping renovations that protect the privacy of your home are always going to be popular.If you’re looking for ways to add more privacy, landscaping gives you the seclusion that you need. There are many ways that you can do it, from trellises and gates in front of a pathway to large shrubbery around the perimeter of the property and wood lattice fences. When you install these types of walls and fences, as well as vegetation, they are great sound barriers and they keep prying eyes away from the front of the house.
  6. Make a statement. A landscaping renovation that’s going to help you to sell your house is making a statement through different pathways. Traditional brick inlays, curved walkways, colourful concrete and even mulch and gravel can help to create pathways that people want to walk down. You have to remember that they need to feel welcomed when they go to your house and especially if you’re looking to sell.
BROOD magazine podcast
Interview with Mother Pukka – AKA Anna Whitehouse

Interview with Mother Pukka – AKA Anna Whitehouse

by | Apr 14, 2025 | , ,

Anna is formidable in her pursuit for equality in the workplace, fuelled by her passion to ensure that her girls, or any girls, don’t face a future where you can have your career snatched away from you just because you dared to have a baby; sadly this is something that Anna experienced first hand.

School Attendance at an all time low, but what’s the reason?

School Attendance at an all time low, but what’s the reason?

by | Mar 21, 2025 | ,

School attendance is at a crisis level, but the key issue is not a cheaper couple of days at Center Parcs, but the very serious issue educational settings not being able to meet children’s needs be that for children with SEN needs, or the who are experiencing bullying and experiencing anxiety, especially post-Covid and the experience of lockdowns on children and young people.

How to Handle Sleep Regressions Without Losing Your Sanity

How to Handle Sleep Regressions Without Losing Your Sanity

by | Mar 3, 2025 |

Just when it finally feels like sleep is under control thanks to a rigid bedtime routine you made, everything falls apart. The baby who used to sleep through the night is now waking up every hour. Naps are a battle. The bedtime routine that once worked like magic suddenly does nothing. Plus, exhaustion takes over, patience runs thin, and suddenly, drinking coffee feels like a personality trait.

HOW TO MANAGE THE CLOCKS SPRINGING FORWARD

HOW TO MANAGE THE CLOCKS SPRINGING FORWARD

by | Feb 27, 2025 | , ,

Twice a year when the clocks change, we are inundated with questions and parents asking what they can do. Although the spring clock change can play havoc with our bodies (an increase in heart attacks and strokes the day after this happen) but it can really help you if you have a little one who likes waking before 5am!

Links
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Last minute school holiday getaways

Last minute school holiday getaways

by | Feb 18, 2025 | Family, Travel

last-minute / affordable half-term travel

By Guest Contributor

Are you looking for a last-minute / affordable half-term travel round-ups? If so, Holiday Inn Express, part of IHG Hotels & Resorts, has your back… 
 
Explore the best staycation spots across the UK and Europe – all just a stone’s throw away from thrilling attractions for all the family.  

 And here’s the cherry on top: with our Holiday Inn Express brand ‘Kids Stay & Eat Free’! 

 

UK  – Staycations 

 

Holiday Inn Express Droitwich Spa 

35 min drive to Go Ape Wyre 

30 min drive to West Midlands Safari Park  

30 min drive to Worcester Cathedral  

25 min drive to Worcester Woods Country Park  
 

Holiday Inn Express Windsor 

9 mi drive or 26 min transport to LEGOLAND Windsor Resort  

15 min drive to Jump In by AirHop Trampoline Park  

5 min drive or 15 min walk to Windsor Castle  

14 min drive to Ascot Racecourse  
 

Holiday Inn Express London – Watford Junction  

12 min drive or 19 min transport to Warner Bros. Studio Tour  

35 min drive from Wembley Stadium  

39 min drive to Whipsnade Zoo  
 

Holiday Inn Express Edinburgh – Leith Waterfront  

6 min walk to Royal Yacht Britannica  

10 min drive or 35 min walk to Royal Botanic Gardens 

19 min drive or 32 min transport to Edinburgh Castle 

BROOD Magazine Edition 7

Europe Holidays  
 

Holiday Inn Express Marne-La-Vallee Val D’Europe 

13 min drive or 30 min transport to Disneyland Paris  

11 min drive or 32 min transport to La Vallee Village  
 

Holiday Inn Express Brussels – Grand-Place 

18 min drive or 7 min transport to Grand Place  

20 min walk to Atomium  

17 min drive or 26 min transport to Royal Belgian Institue of Natural Sciences 
 

Holiday Inn Express Amsterdam – North Riverside  

 30 min transport to NEMO Science Museum  

 24 min drive or 32 min transport to Van Gogh Museum    

BROOD magazine podcast
Interview with Mother Pukka – AKA Anna Whitehouse

Interview with Mother Pukka – AKA Anna Whitehouse

by | Apr 14, 2025 | , ,

Anna is formidable in her pursuit for equality in the workplace, fuelled by her passion to ensure that her girls, or any girls, don’t face a future where you can have your career snatched away from you just because you dared to have a baby; sadly this is something that Anna experienced first hand.

School Attendance at an all time low, but what’s the reason?

School Attendance at an all time low, but what’s the reason?

by | Mar 21, 2025 | ,

School attendance is at a crisis level, but the key issue is not a cheaper couple of days at Center Parcs, but the very serious issue educational settings not being able to meet children’s needs be that for children with SEN needs, or the who are experiencing bullying and experiencing anxiety, especially post-Covid and the experience of lockdowns on children and young people.

How to Handle Sleep Regressions Without Losing Your Sanity

How to Handle Sleep Regressions Without Losing Your Sanity

by | Mar 3, 2025 |

Just when it finally feels like sleep is under control thanks to a rigid bedtime routine you made, everything falls apart. The baby who used to sleep through the night is now waking up every hour. Naps are a battle. The bedtime routine that once worked like magic suddenly does nothing. Plus, exhaustion takes over, patience runs thin, and suddenly, drinking coffee feels like a personality trait.

HOW TO MANAGE THE CLOCKS SPRINGING FORWARD

HOW TO MANAGE THE CLOCKS SPRINGING FORWARD

by | Feb 27, 2025 | , ,

Twice a year when the clocks change, we are inundated with questions and parents asking what they can do. Although the spring clock change can play havoc with our bodies (an increase in heart attacks and strokes the day after this happen) but it can really help you if you have a little one who likes waking before 5am!

Links
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Effortless Hair Ideas for Busy Mums: Valentine’s Day Edition

Effortless Hair Ideas for Busy Mums: Valentine’s Day Edition

by | Feb 11, 2025 | Style, Valentines

Effortless Hair Ideas for Busy Mums: Valentine’s Day Edition

By Nicola Wood

Valentine’s Day is the perfect excuse to take a little extra time for yourself, even if you’re juggling a hectic schedule.

These simple, low-maintenance hairstyles will have you looking and feeling your best, whether it’s a romantic dinner, a family outing, or a cosy night in.

  1. The Classic Low Bun
  • Why it’s perfect: This style is quick to create and looks effortlessly elegant.
  • How to achieve it:
    1. Gather your hair into a low ponytail.
    2. Twist the ponytail into a bun and secure it with bobby pins.
    3. Pull out a few face-framing strands for a soft, romantic look.

For a polished finish, use some light-hold hairspray and add a decorative clip or scrunchie.

  1. Soft Beachy Waves
  • Why it’s perfect: This look is effortless yet stunning, perfect for Valentine’s Day.
  • How to achieve it:
    1. Lightly dampen your hair before bed.
    2. Divide your hair into sections, twist each section into a bun, and secure it with a hair tie or bobby pins.
    3. In the morning, release the buns and gently run your fingers through your hair to separate the waves.
    4. Apply a touch of hair oil or texturising spray for added definition and shine.

This natural, breezy look is perfect for both daytime and evening plans.

  1. Half-Up, Half-Down Twist
  • Why it’s perfect: A quick style that’s flattering and works for any occasion.
  • How to achieve it:
    1. Take two sections of hair from either side of your face.
    2. Twist each section and pin them at the back of your head.
    3. Add a ribbon or decorative pin for a Valentine’s flair.
Hair Made Easi
Valentines Day Hair
  1. Sleek High Ponytail
  • Why it’s perfect: Perfect for busy mums who want a no-fuss yet stylish look.
  • How to achieve it:
    1. Brush your hair into a high ponytail and secure it tightly with a hair tie.
    2. Wrap a small section of hair around the base of the ponytail to hide the tie.
    3. Use a straightener for sleek ends or curl the ponytail for added volume.
    4. Messy Side Braid
  • Why it’s perfect: A great option if you’re short on time but want to look effortlessly put together.
  • How to achieve it:
    1. Pull your hair to one side and create a loose braid.
    2. Gently tug on the braid to create volume and a soft, messy texture.
    3. Add a floral accessory for a touch of romance.
    4. Natural Curls or Textured Look
  • Why it’s perfect: Sometimes less is more. Enhance your natural hair texture with minimal effort.
  • How to achieve it:
    1. Use a curl-enhancing mousse or cream to define natural curls or waves.
    2. Let your hair air-dry or diffuse it for a soft, natural finish.
    3. Pin one side back with a decorative clip for a quick upgrade.

Tips for Busy Mums

  1. Prep the Night Before: Wash hair the night before and use the XL hair wrap to reduce frizz.
  2. Keep Accessories Handy: Hair clips, scrunchies, or headbands can transform your look in seconds.
  3. Dry Shampoo is Your Best Friend: For last-minute styling, dry shampoo adds volume and freshness to your hair.

No matter your schedule, these hairstyles will help you look and feel special this Valentine’s Day.

💕

 

Official Dad Bag
Interview with Mother Pukka – AKA Anna Whitehouse

Interview with Mother Pukka – AKA Anna Whitehouse

by | Apr 14, 2025 | , ,

Anna is formidable in her pursuit for equality in the workplace, fuelled by her passion to ensure that her girls, or any girls, don’t face a future where you can have your career snatched away from you just because you dared to have a baby; sadly this is something that Anna experienced first hand.

School Attendance at an all time low, but what’s the reason?

School Attendance at an all time low, but what’s the reason?

by | Mar 21, 2025 | ,

School attendance is at a crisis level, but the key issue is not a cheaper couple of days at Center Parcs, but the very serious issue educational settings not being able to meet children’s needs be that for children with SEN needs, or the who are experiencing bullying and experiencing anxiety, especially post-Covid and the experience of lockdowns on children and young people.

How to Handle Sleep Regressions Without Losing Your Sanity

How to Handle Sleep Regressions Without Losing Your Sanity

by | Mar 3, 2025 |

Just when it finally feels like sleep is under control thanks to a rigid bedtime routine you made, everything falls apart. The baby who used to sleep through the night is now waking up every hour. Naps are a battle. The bedtime routine that once worked like magic suddenly does nothing. Plus, exhaustion takes over, patience runs thin, and suddenly, drinking coffee feels like a personality trait.

HOW TO MANAGE THE CLOCKS SPRINGING FORWARD

HOW TO MANAGE THE CLOCKS SPRINGING FORWARD

by | Feb 27, 2025 | , ,

Twice a year when the clocks change, we are inundated with questions and parents asking what they can do. Although the spring clock change can play havoc with our bodies (an increase in heart attacks and strokes the day after this happen) but it can really help you if you have a little one who likes waking before 5am!

Famous landmarks around europe you can see when you book a cruise

Famous landmarks around europe you can see when you book a cruise

by | Feb 3, 2025 | Featured, Travel

Famous landmarks around Europe you can see when booking a cruise

By Guest Contributor

If you have been longing for the open seas, but have limited time to plan for your exclusive experience, why not book a spontaneous getaway to treat yourself and your family to an unforgettable cruise vacation.

 

Whether its the Eiffel Tower in Paris or the Leaning Tower of Pisa in Rome, you can hardly turn a corner in Europe without stumbling upon an incredible landmark.

 

So go ahead and browse the cheapest option with last-minute cruise deals which will whisk you away on an unforgettable adventure to some of the most sought-after destinations of Europe.

<br /> La Sagrada Familia, Barcelona

1:

La Sagrada Familia, Barcelona

An unparalleled achievement of the famous Spanish architect Antoni Gaudi, La Sagrada Familia is the most grandest of all landmarks in Europe and probably on the planet as well.

 

The stunning exterior is a vivid display of spires, towers, sculptures and carvings that extend skywards to heights of 566 feet while the interior is reminiscent of a forest canopy. Scheduled to be completed in 2026, it will mark the 100 th death anniversary of Gaudi, buried in the script underneath.

 

Rome-colosseum

2:

Colosseum, Rome

 

Constructed more than two thousand years ago, the enormity of the Colosseum in Rome can be envisaged by its look which even resembles what it was when originally built, just east of the Palatine Hill.

 

This incredible engineering feat can be felt when walking the perimeter of this massive stone and concrete structure and its elliptical bowl shape. Note the retractable awning above which acted as as a shield from the elements for the 50,000 spectators who watched the brutal combat scenes.

BROOD Magazine Edition 7
Trip-to-paris

3:

Eiffel Tower, Paris

The 1063 feet high Eiffel Tower stands like a beacon over the City of Lights and has become a landmark synonymous not only with Paris, but the whole of France as well. Initially a concept of Gustave Eiffel, a French engineer, for the 1889 World Fair, it only escaped demolition as it was considered to be a potential telecommunication tower.

No visit to Paris can be deemed complete without a selfie against the backdrop of this colossal iron frame towering in the distance. Moreover, the views of the city from the top, accessed by a combination of lifts and stairs, are unsurpassable,

This incredible engineering feat can be felt when walking the perimeter of this massive stone and concrete structure and its elliptical bowl shape. Note the retractable awning above which acted as as a shield from the elements for the 50,000 spectators who watched the brutal combat scenes.

Pisa, Italy 2025

4:

The Leaning Tower of Pisa, Italy

Built way back in 1173, this unique bell tower built for the Pisa Cathedral was lopsided right from the start due to the uneven settling of the foundation below it. Despite efforts from architects to correct the tilt, this 185 tower still leans today to about 4 degrees off the vertical.

Alas, this engineering destabilization, has made the tower one of the most significant landmarks in Italy and one of the most famous monument in Europe. Thankfully, the white marble arcades have ensured that it is very much stable still and safe to climb its 251 steps as well.

Visitors are rewarded with excellent views of the entire cathedral complex and the surrounding Tuscan scenery from the top.

 

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Valentine’s Day Gift Guide for Busy Dads: Thoughtful Ideas for Wives or Partners

Valentine’s Day Gift Guide for Busy Dads: Thoughtful Ideas for Wives or Partners

by | Feb 2, 2025 | Style, Valentines

Valentine’s Day Gift Guide for Busy Dads: Thoughtful Ideas for Wives or Partners

By Nicola Wood

Valentine’s Day is the perfect time to show your wife or partner how much you appreciate her, especially when balancing family life. If you’re looking for meaningful yet practical gifts, this guide has you covered.

1. Spa-Like Treats – Bring Relaxation Home

Help her unwind with a few indulgent essentials:

  • A luxurious bath bomb or bubble bath for a soothing soak.
  • Scented candles to create a calming atmosphere.
  • A silk pillowcase for a touch of everyday luxury.
  • The XL Hair Wrap – perfect for quick drying, protecting hair while she relaxes, and keeping it frizz-free overnight.
    These small yet thoughtful gifts turn an ordinary evening into a spa-like retreat.

2. Personalised Jewellery – A Sentimental Keepsake

Jewellery with a personal touch makes for a heartfelt gift. Consider a necklace or bracelet engraved with:

  • Her initials or yours together.
  • Your children’s names or birthstones.
  • A meaningful date, like your anniversary.
    It’s a timeless reminder of love that she can cherish every day.

3. A Meaningful Experience – Create Lasting Memories

Sometimes, shared experiences are the best gifts. Consider:

  • A romantic dinner at her favourite restaurant.
  • A spa day for two (or a solo one just for her!).
  • A family photoshoot to capture special moments.
    These experiences show thoughtfulness and create lasting memories.
Hair Made Easi

4. Pamper Essentials Kit – Thoughtful Self-Care

Put together a personalised pamper box with:

  • A high-quality hairbrush or detangling comb.
  • A nourishing hair mask for silky locks.
  • New pyjamas or cosy slippers.
  • A box of her favourite chocolates.
    This thoughtful selection makes her feel truly appreciated.

5. A Thoughtful Card or Letter – Words from the Heart

Sometimes, the most meaningful gift is a heartfelt note. Take a moment to write a card or letter expressing your love and appreciation. Let her know how much she means to you and the family—words can make the biggest impact.

By mixing sentimental touches with thoughtful gifts, you’ll create a Valentine’s Day she’ll truly treasure. 💕

 

Official Dad Bag
Interview with Mother Pukka – AKA Anna Whitehouse

Interview with Mother Pukka – AKA Anna Whitehouse

by | Apr 14, 2025 | , ,

Anna is formidable in her pursuit for equality in the workplace, fuelled by her passion to ensure that her girls, or any girls, don’t face a future where you can have your career snatched away from you just because you dared to have a baby; sadly this is something that Anna experienced first hand.

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by | Mar 3, 2025 |

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by | Feb 27, 2025 | , ,

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