light on. There he would sit gazing at the colourful bubbles until, in a stupor, he was put to bed. The beds themselves were, unfortunately, rather too narrow – all three kids fell out at least once (quick end to stupor there) and I was aware of having

From plastic trucks on carpets to mini diggers in sandpits, construction toys seem to have a timeless appeal for busy young hands. Whilst you may presume the controls of a JCB are not within the grasp of your child, young building enthusiasts now have the opportunity to master th...

, hamburgers and cupcakes.More art & craft inspiration from junior:Print out and keep activity sheets by Disney's Spooky BuddiesFive ways to create beautifully decorated eggs for Easter

If you need a break somewhere far-flung and exotic (but without all the travelling, packing and expense), then go for a sensory adventure instead. The perfect place to do this is in the greenhouse network at the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh.Go early in the morning, as early as ...

Discover is billed as an interactive story trail for children. And it is, but it’s also so much more. Florence and I are regulars these days due to the fact you can join as a member at very reasonable rates and have annual access. We go every couple of weeks and haven’t been bore...

After eating an avocado, pierce the stone with three toothpicks around the circumference.Now balance the stone,  half submerged in water, on the rim of a glass and leave somewhere warm inside your house.After roots and shoots  begin to sprout (within two to six weeks) you can pot...

Make rhythms from everyday activitiesClimb the stairs to a steady beat, do up buttons with a rapper's rhythmic commentary.Sing SongsAs you are walking down the street, make up songs about the things you do regularly, such as posting a letter

Meet the Miniland Queen at Legoland, WindsorMay 24–June 10
All eyes will be on the balcony of Buck Pal, Miniland, as a diminutive Lego Queen comes out to wave to her adoring subjects. Standing 10cm high, she will be bedecked with her own real diamond encrusted crown, designed by ...

1. Treat yourself to a lie-in If you are accustomed to leaping out of bed in the morning in order to get your children dressed and make them breakfast, then you must stop immediately. By doing these things for your children, you are making them dependent on you. You are also in d...

Hazelborough Wood, Northamptonshire These are tranquil ancient woodlands where deer and even badgers live. So roll out your blanket and enjoy a picnic while you watch and wait. Thetford Forest, Norfolk This tall pine forest is home to a wide variety of birds including red crossbi...