Artist and Illustrator Posy Simmonds writes children's books, including the award-winning Fred. Here she talks to Junior about her illustration inspiration"My first drawing was a big woman, covered in buttons, when I was about three. Now I draw mostly in pen and ink, or soft penc...

Poster Paints £2.49 for six, Rainbow Block £3.99, Chubbybrush £1.25 each all by Galt

As well as being a practical skill – think of all those scarves, socks and jumpers you can create! – knitting is also a fun activity you can teach your children, or use to relax and socialise with other adults in knitting clubs. Visit www

enduring family memories. But how can you unleash this creativity?An uptight Daddy screeching “Be careful with the camera” is unlikely to bring out the best in your child’s inner David Bailey. Although you want to teach your child to respect the fragility

teach you something more about your children and enrich your relationship and bond. “Children with a strong sense of identity are resilient, and they become well-adjusted adults," says family service counsellor, Di Stubbs. "And helping to instil a sense

Writing thank you notes is all part of teaching a child good manners, but the act of actually getting your child to sit down and write one can be such an uphill struggle that sometimes it just seems easier to do it yourself. But it's important