When the seasonal excitement of Christmas is over, in all it's attendant excess, there's something rather satisfying about the idea of embracing a simpler life, including that old chestnut: quality time with your family. That might mean turning off

while she was eating the rabbit. Every Sunday, there was a large family gathering and the children were very much part of the event. We had to behave, but food was really much a part of our culture.Did you do the same with your children? My children were

, pesto is made with a pestle and mortar, which is perfect for pounding the ingredients – borrow one from a friend if you don’t have one. You can also make it in a food processor.Ingredients40g (11/2oz) of Parmesan1/2 clove garlicPinch of salt40g (11/2oz

make good food for you and your friends and family. It is also sociable – cooking and eating are both enjoyable things to do with others. And, of course, it also allows children to practise numeracy, literacy, geography, art and science as well

saying “hello” in a foreign language, while for others it may be simply eating in a restaurant with more unusual local foods to sample. Whether your idea of a family holiday is packing the children in the car and heading for the coast, or jetting off

LondonNew Year’s Eve Funk PartyDecember 31Rare is the New Year’s Eve party that is as child-friendly as it is fun for adults but London restaurant Caponata and sister venue The Forge may just have pulled it off. Kicking off at a family-friendly 7pm

and trying to fry an egg. I got distracted and the oil over-heated. I almost burned the house down and my mother banned me from her kitchen forever.What would be your perfect family Christmas dinner? A very long one – with friends, family and great food

. What it costs  £160 for adult weekend camping; 13–16 years £90; two under-12s free per adult. Extend your stay After the excess, perhaps a little rehab at the Priory? Well, the Priory Inn at nearby Tetbury offers a very relaxed and family-friendly vibe and great

.The enchantingly named Tales on Moon Lane in Herne Hill has been providing an appealing environment for children to read, play and interact with friendly, knowledgeable staff for 8 years. Owner Tamara Macfarlane founded the shop in order to create a space

, this farm operates two pick-your-own sites, both with stunning views of Snowdonia. There’s also a farm shop and a café. Tel: 01248 430 344 or visit www.hootonshomegrown.comCairnie Fruit Farm, Fife This super family-friendly farm has 45 acres of pick