If your bedtime routine still involves a heavy night cream, it might be time to rethink. Night creams may be comforting, but they often sit on the skin’s surface, struggling to fully absorb which means they’re not working as hard as they could. I can find creams too heavy and feel like they are suffocating my skin. It helps to let skin breathe. Something lighter is also better in the summer months.
Why the switch? Concentrates sink deeper into the skin, targeting specific concerns more effectively than traditional creams. Whether you’re battling fine lines, blemishes, or visible pores, a serum-like formula delivers potent ingredients where they’re needed most.
Formulated with effective yet gentle ingredients for a clear, radiant and flawless looking skin. Best suited to normal, oily and combination skin types.
This treatment helps:
Reduce the look of large, open pores
Clean pores of dirt, sebum, oil, makeup and debris
Smooth out the look of fine liens and wrinkles
Target the look of blemishes and blackheads
Other fantastic buys from Elizabeth Grant. I love both of these.
The name says it all. This lightweight yet powerful treatment delivers deep hydration while helping to plump, tighten and strengthen the skin for visibly fuller, more resilient skin texture. It leaves skin looking plump and gorgeous.
Vitamin C Gold C Dark Spot Corrector | £55.
A dark spot corrector with Torricelumn™, and the Dark Spot Complex, our skin brightening treatment to help reduce the appearance of dark spots, discoloration and uneven skin tone.
Scent: Unscented
Really works to brighten up skin. I also love the face it has no scent.
I always find it hard to find the perfect gift for people, but this selection is both functional, well-designed and fun. Anything that enhances life while also being cool is a must-have.
This is so handy. You will quickly not be able to live without it. The Connex Cable Adaptor Hub is the perfect solution for the frustration of carrying multiple tangled and damaged charging cables. In today’s gadget-hungry world, many of us own an endless list of tech products, from smartphones and smartwatches to iPads and cameras. While the industry is shifting toward universal connectors like USB-C, most consumers still rely on a variety of connections. The Connex hub offers a compact solution with standard charging, PD charging, and data transfer capabilities all in one device making it easier to keep devices connected and charged without the mess of tangled cables. No more missing connections or damaged wires!
This is such a clever snack box. The lid is flexible so you can put an apple in there. Perfect for the handbag, car, or office desk, the b.box snackbox is a secret weapon for tackling hunger on the move. With two sealed compartments, it’s ideal for keeping snacks fresh think crunchy nuts, fresh fruit, or a little treat for an afternoon pick-me-up. The easy-to-open, leak-proof design means no spills, just hassle-free snacking.
Warmies® Marshmallow Pink Slippers, £14.99 from Warmies®
These are cute and cosy. They smell great and you can warm them up in a microwave. Have some much-needed relaxation with the Warmies® Marshmallow Pink Slippers. These soft slippers are filled with natural grains and lavender, offering soothing warmth when heated in the microwave. Perfect for keeping feet cosy and relaxed after a long day.
b.box 1L insulated flip top bottle, £32.99 from Amazon
This is a great water bottle that was promptly stolen by my toddler. It is very cool and holds a lot. We are always on the go, and staying hydrated often takes a backseat. The b.box 1L insulated flip top bottle is the perfect solution. With double-walled, stainless steel insulation, it keeps drinks cold for up to 46 hours yes, really! The easy flip-top lid and carry handle make it a breeze to take anywhere, whether it’s the school run, gym, or a rare moment of relaxation. Plus, the wide opening means you can throw in ice cubes for an extra chill factor. Stylish and practical.
Please note that this site uses affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
My children absolutely love the Creator Instant Camera. You can print pictures immediately and then colour them in. It is great for keepsakes and scrapbooks. It’s such a clever idea, and it keeps children entertained for hours. It is easy to use. Hours of fun await. Make every moment one to remember with Canal Toy’s ultimate lineup. Capture the fun with the Photo Creator Instant Camera and print your favourite snaps on the go with the Photo Creator Instant Pocket Printer.
The Creator Instant Camera is your go-to for instant memories. Snap, print, and personalise with 20+ filters, video recording, and a rechargeable battery that keeps the fun going. With a 4GB micro-SD card, paper rolls, markers, and stickers included, every photo can be a masterpiece.
The Creator Instant Camera RRP is £54.99, and it is available to buy from Amazon, Smyths, Very & Argos
Want to print straight from your phone? The Creator Instant Pocket Printer turns digital photos into real keepsakes in seconds. Customise them with stickers and markers to make them truly one of a kind. Perfect for decorating, journaling, or sharing with friends.
The Creator Instant Pocket Printer RRP is £24.99, and it is available to buy from Amazon, Smyths & Very
Crafting is a wonderful way for families to spend quality time together. Not only is it fun and creative, but it helps build bonds, teaches new skills, and creates lasting memories. This article will explore several crafts that parents, children, and teens can all take part in together. With a little planning and preparation, you can find activities that suit everyone’s interests and abilities.
Simple Sewing and Embroidery
Sewing and embroidery projects allow family members of all ages to flex their creative muscles. Young kids can practice basic stitches on burlap or felt. Older children can try cross-stitch patterns or sewing simple items like pillows and tote bags. Teens and parents can take on more advanced embroidery hoops or make their own clothes. The great thing about sewing is that it can be as simple or complex as you want. Start with an easy kit that has pre-cut fabric and designs. As skills improve, move on to selecting your own materials and patterns. The finished products will be great memories for children you foster with Foster Care Associates.
Building Model Cars, Planes, and Rockets
Parents who want to share their love of mechanics and construction with kids will enjoy putting together model vehicles. Look for beginner kits of cars, planes, helicopters, ships, and rockets that snap together or use basic gluing. Teens may appreciate more challenging models with fine details and electronics. Not only does this teach hand-eye coordination and following instructions, but it opens up conversations about science and history.
Nature Crafts
Using materials found in nature is an eco-friendly way to craft with the whole family. Go on walks together looking for interesting flowers, leaves, seeds, feathers, rocks, sticks, seashells and more. Then get creative repurposing your finds into art and decorations. Make pressed flower cards, leaf rubbings, or collages. Arrange your nature collections in shadow boxes or frames. Use sticks and rocks to make sculptures or paint them bright colours. You can even make bird feeders by spreading peanut butter and birdseed on pine cones. Encourage children to use their imagination to invent new ways to use natural objects.
Melting and Moulding Crafts
Melting crayons, sculpting clay, and moulding plaster allow for all sorts of unique crafts. Young children can cut or break old crayons and watch them melt together to create colourful swirl art on canvas or cardstock. Air-dry clay allows sculpting without any baking. Let the whole family craft their own clay figurines and ornaments. For bigger messy fun, make your own plaster moulds using plastic cups, bowls, and packaging, then pour in plaster to create one-of-a-kind shapes. As the mould dries, the children can paint and decorate their plaster creations. Cover your workspace and wear old clothes for these delightfully gooey activities.
Making crafts as a family is not just about the end product. It’s about slowing down, being present together, and experiencing the joys and challenges of creativity. Find activities that play to each person’s strengths and let everyone go at their own pace. Stay flexible and keep a light-hearted attitude. With the right materials and guidance from parents, kids and teens can create memories to last a lifetime. So, put on some aprons, turn on some music, and let your family’s imagination run wild!
London Book Fair is a bustling and exciting place to be. A lot of deals are made. You can feel the buzz. This year they had an Author’s HQ and the SOA (Society of Authors) was also there. But is it worth it for authors? We ask Joanna Knowles, author of Lost and Found in Venice.
Was this your first time at the London Book Fair?
Yes, it was. I had contemplated going before but I had been advised that it was more of a trade event, not an event for authors to network or make contacts. However, now I was more established as an author, I saw the LBF advertised, and with tickets available specifically geared towards authors, I decided that maybe the event would be beneficial to my career. Plus, a trip to London is always a great location for inspiration and cultural enjoyment. The museums, the libraries, the natural beauty of the parks contrasting against the giant structures that seep their histories via their bricks and mortar; no wonder J.M Barrie said, “London is a swarming, restless, bustling town, always on the go.”
Why did you go?
The brochure advertised seminars that really appealed to me, and so I planned by visit by what seminars I could attend and learn from. I also noticed there would be an Authors HQ stage. With writing being a naturally solitary profession, I was excited at the prospect of meeting fellow authors and visiting the hub of a profession I am proud to be a part of.
Did you enjoy it?
The vibe was definitely humming. An eclectic mix of languages, conversations, and book genres that meant the place was thriving. And huge! Sadly, the recommended app requested to download before attending wasn’t working and so I was unable to navigate the fair with destinations in mind. It was more of a stroll to find stands that interested me. I did speak to a wonderful LBF employee at their large Helpdesk who did offer guidance based on where I wanted to visit.
The Olympia Building stands as a beauty icon in its own right. As you enter, it is the sheer amount of glass and arching ceiling that made me want to stop and just stare. However, the enormity of the site from a practical point of view was a little overwhelming without a map to guide me, and I also found little seating in the complex, observing others sitting sporadically on the floor.
I did have certain seminars that I had pencilled in to attend, noting previously that they didn’t need advance booking, but I found myself unable to enter the first seminar due to a lack of spacing and a plethora of people spilling outside of the Author HQ stage. I did try to fit in the area outside, in the hope that I might be able to hear, but I was moved on by a security guard for health and safety reasons as the walkway was beginning to get blocked.
Do you feel like it’s a good place for authors?
If a group of authors visited together, I can see the advantage of networking and comparing notes. There is a real opportunity to utilise the opportunity of having so many authors in one place.
Plus, the seminars I had chosen to attend were directed towards authors, and if there had been more space and seating available, I can see it being a great place to gain insight from a profession that is mostly remote. Plus, if an author is without an agent, then learning the valuable processes of how the industry works could be incredibly useful.
What did you gain from it?
The people I did speak to are very friendly, agreeable, and everyone is clearly passionate about the industry. I felt energised just from being there and being in the presence of the giants of publishing. I did visit my own publishing house and could see the energy and excitement that goes into each meeting with attendees.
It was also fascinating to be a part of something that is industry renowned around the world. To know that deals were happening under the same roof and that potentially, the next bestseller was being discovered over coffee, or the newest trend was being discussed was exciting. Equally, to see the various stalls evidence the creativity, passion, and effort that goes into the written word was just a joy to be around. Particular highlights include theHatchette UK stand, the Audible stand, Wordsworth Editions Ltd and The British Library stand.
As an author, what would you like to see more of at LBF?
Networking opportunities that are both free, assessable and insightful for authors that are navigating their own position in the industry. To be able to pre-book onto seminars so that the itinerary is set, and a place is guaranteed. This would avoid the over-crowding and limited access that I encountered on the day.
The queues for refreshments were long; so perhaps more catering would help with keeping people hydrated and provide the valuable seating that the 2025 LBF lacked. Also, a potential opportunity to purchase goods on display (which I appreciate would be limited in space and volume), but would offer great marketing potential rather than just scanning a barcode and being sent a summary of activity after the event.
Do you recommend other author goes?
Not unless recommended by their editor/agent to do so. There are limited opportunities for authors as the fair stands now; but I do feel there is huge potential to make the event more author friendly and desirable to all.
Joanna Knowles –
Author, Writer, Prolific Reader, Lover of Cake.
Joanna lives in the south of England with her family, in a house with far too many books, and a cat who often ignores her. She hates to fly but loves to travel; she prefers paperbacks to eBooks, and she adores American sitcoms.
Alongside her writing, she has a love of movies, eating out, and socialising with her friends. Her family are her world and her husband is the love of her life. She loves to read. Anything. Shampoo bottles, magazines, current affairs, 19th century literature; and she has a particular penchant for a pretty book cover. She has completed both a BA(Hons) in English Literature and a master’s degree in creative writing, all while her children were little. Her biggest complement would be to be called a geek. Her love of literature comes from a young age, when seated cross-legged on the classroom floor, reading book after book in the book corner.
These days, she can often be found scouring the internet for her next book destination, failing miserably at the daily crossword, and writing her next novel sitting absolutely anywhere, but at her desk.
Lost and Found in Venice is Joanna’s second published novel with Orion Fiction. Her debut, Love is in the Air, was published in November 2023. She is currently working on her third novel which takes place at the top of a volcano.
WildBird, who make amazing, soft, baby slings, have officially launched the Aerial Wrap Carrier. This latest addition to the WildBird family is a new take on the best-selling Aerial Buckle Carrier, offering the same ergonomic support and stylish design, now with a flexible wrap-style fit that models to both wearer and baby for ultimate comfort.
It is a fantastic baby sling that is easy to use. I love the fact it brings the baby really close to you, hugging into your chest.
Designed for newborns, the Aerial Wrap Carrier provides hands-free convenience while maintaining the soft, breathable fabrics WildBird is known for. Whether parents are at home or on the go, this carrier delivers a snug, supportive hold without bulky hardware–just simple, intuitive babywearing.
Children need all of the support they can get. Especially after COVID. A new survey of UK teachers reveals a rise in pupils starting school with poor speech and language skills since the pandemic.
Commissioned by assessment provider GL Assessments, the poll of 1,000 teachers found that nearly half of primary teachers estimate up to one in five of their pupils struggle with speech and language. These difficulties often become apparent when children start school (48%) or even earlier (33%).
Many teachers report that speech and language issues are frequently mistaken for reading and maths difficulties (46%) or misidentified as behavioural problems (27%). Additionally, 44% of primary school teachers say up to a fifth of their pupils struggle to communicate at an age-appropriate level, while 37% believe the issue affects as many as two in five pupils.
A significant 76% of teachers feel parents often deny or overlook these challenges. However, there are practical strategies parents can use to support their child’s language development.
Below, Cristina Miguelez, Spokesperson at online language learning platformPreply offer key tips to help parents support their child’s speech and communication skills at home:
1. Read together and discuss the story
Reading books with your child is integral to develop their literacy skills and understanding of language. Furthermore, discussing the books you read together can positively impact their communication skills.
It encourages them to express their opinions and enhances their ability to recall details, improving their overall understanding of language and communication. Keep their favourite books within easy reach so they can revisit them, reinforcing their memory and comprehension.
2. Reflect on the day’s activities
Another effective way to support your child’s language development is to regularly discuss their day and the activities they’ve engaged in. For instance, ask them about their school day or, if you’ve taken them to the park, encourage them to share their favourite part of the experience.
Like discussing books, this helps children understand how to use language effectively and communicate their thoughts more clearly.
3. Engage in conversations about TV shows
If your child enjoys watching children’s television, discussing what they watch can significantly enhance their language skills.
Educational programmes are particularly beneficial, as they introduce new vocabulary and concepts. Engaging your child in conversations about these shows can deepen their understanding and reinforce language learning.
4. Use comments instead of questions
While asking children questions is important, too many can feel like a test. Instead, focus on making conversations more natural. Comment on what they are doing and what is happening around them rather than constantly quizzing them.
This approach helps children feel more relaxed and comfortable when communicating, making it easier for them to process and respond to language.
5. Turn everyday moments into learning opportunities
Daily routines can be powerful tools for language development. Activities such as cooking, shopping, or getting dressed provide opportunities to introduce new words and encourage conversation.
For example, while preparing a meal, talk about the ingredients, describe their colours and textures, and explain the cooking process. These simple, everyday interactions can significantly enhance a child’s vocabulary and understanding of language.
As Mad Beauty celebrates their 25th birthday, they have launched an exciting new SS25 collections. Featuring magical collaborations with Disney and Warner Bros, alongside their exclusive own-label range, these collections are designed to surprise and delight. They are fun and super cute. The designs are brilliant. I love them.
These products are gorgeous products of joy. When you get one they add to your day. We all deserve gorgeous things in our life that brighten up the day. Get shopping now. Now available to shop online at madbeauty.com, here’s an exclusive first look at the must-have products from each collection:
Lady and The Tramp
A romantic rendezvous of delicate florals and indulgent treats, this collection celebrates the classic love story’s 70th anniversary. Perfect for Disney lovers and dog enthusiasts alike, this collection reimagines the film’s most iconic moments into innovative beauty products.
Transform bath time with this charming bath spaghetti, fragranced with wildflower for a luxurious soak that’s as indulgent as the film’s famous candlelit dinner scene.
With Moana’s popularity soaring ahead of the upcoming live-action movie in 2026, this collection is a tropical celebration of inner strength and independence. Expect fresh scents, vibrant designs, and products that help you look and feel your best.
Enriched with shea butter and algae extract, this hydrating mask deeply nourishes hair, leaving it silky smooth. Use Moana’s iconic paddle scoop to apply the perfect dose and let the tropical coconut fragrance transport you to island paradise.
Bringing beloved Disney Princesses into the modern era, this collection is filled with fun, contemporary beauty essentials. Expect new formats like lip oils, face masks, and scrunchie sets, ideal for gifting when choosing just one princess is impossible!
A four-piece collection of hydrating, high-gloss lip oils in delicious fragrances including apple, cherry, vanilla, and strawberry, to keep lips soft and radiant all day.
Shop the Disney Princess Express Yourself collection here
Powerpuff Girls
Inspired by the fearless energy of Blossom, Bubbles, and Buttercup, this vibrant collection features beauty must-haves designed to empower and uplift.
With travel booming, Mad Beauty celebrates its hometown with a collection of iconic London-inspired beauty gifts, making for the perfect souvenirs and keepsakes.
