Male or female variety. May or may not have children (either way, they're in denial), but certainly resents having to share what they consider to be their working environment with youngsters. Likely to glare, stare, tut and rustle their newspapers

SCREAMING CHILDREN WILL not be tolerated” was the bold proclamation recently posted in the windows on Olde Salty restaurant in North Carolina. The reaction has polarized opinion, with many diners in favour of the restriction, while others feel

to be strapped into his seat, but a little philosophical pragmatism can go a long way when flying with young children. Think yourself into a positive can-do frame of mind, get organized as much as possible – forewarned is forearmed and all that – and your holiday

, the benefits are a chance to indulge in some inspired imaginative play and the opportunity to escape into their own special hideaway – a little retreat that’s designed especially for them.  “It is absolutely essential to remember that children need some time

doors of the beautiful Art Deco establishment. There’s a host of children’s amenities, including games and activities for use during your stay, a smart Claridge’s tote goody bag, and a mini-size, mint-green umbrella – to be prepared for those London

51. Mister Magnolia by Quentin Blake Red Fox, £5.99Dahl illustrator Quentin Blake has written some wonderful books for small children. Mister Magnolia is a poetic joy in which our hero possesses lots of wonderful objects, animals and even two

. Adapted again and again as an animation, film, stage play and television series, Kenneth Grahame’s story, which afforded the wildlife human characteristics, brings themes of friendship and morality to children’s books.Buy The Wind In The Willows

81 The Enormous Crocodile by Roald Dahl Puffin, £5.99Despite there being an abundance of child-eating in Roald Dahl’s books, they continue to be extremely popular with children. In this story a mean croc in the muddiest river in Africa is out

1. The Very Hungry Caterpillar by Eric Carle (Puffin, £5.99)Not many children’s books achieve worldwide sales that would humble a U2 album, but Eric Carle’s classic picture book about a caterpillar munching his way to becoming a beautiful butterfly

21. Owl Babies by Martin Waddell and Patrick Benson (Walker, £4.99)Sarah, Percy and Bill wake up one night to find their mother isn’t there. Their loneliness makes them anxious and the fluffy white owls begin to fret, but are overcome with relief and joy when mummy owl comes back...