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Tag: Gift guide

Thoughtful Gifts For Mother’s Day 2025
Shopping

Thoughtful Gifts For Mother’s Day 2025

Mother’s Day is coming up soon (30th March) and I wanted to share some gift ideas for the amazing mums out there – be they […]

20 thoughtful Mother’s Day gifts under £20
Shopping

20 thoughtful Mother’s Day gifts under £20

Can you believe it’s almost that time of year again? That’s right – Mother’s Day is just around the corner, and if you’re anything like […]

Welcome to RealParent.co.uk - a blog where family life gets a playful twist! Whether you’re scouting the best toys, planning an epic adventure, or figuring out how to keep kids of all ages entertained (without losing your sanity), we’re here to help.

From reviews, home education and days out to special needs-friendly tips and free printables, we’ve got all the inspiration you need to make family time unforgettable.

Meet the Real Parent family.

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Popular on RealParent.co.uk

EARLY PREGNANCY SIGNS SYMPTOMS

The Best School Shoes For Active Kids

Latest posts

  • lady smiling and baby in pram
    How To Make Leaving The House With A Baby Much Less StressfulAugust 25, 2026
    Before having a baby, leaving the house can be as simple as grabbing your keys, phone and coat. Afterwards, even a quick trip to the… Read more: How To Make Leaving The House With A Baby Much Less Stressful
  • dentist and patient laughing
    Dental implants as a parent with dental anxiety – my honest story & what helpedAugust 18, 2026
    I’m going to be honest: I didn’t glide into the idea of dental implants feeling calm, organised, and brave. I’m a parent. My brain is… Read more: Dental implants as a parent with dental anxiety – my honest story & what helped
  • kids looking out at a clear river
    Free (and free-ish) things to do in the summer holidays (that work with a big age gap)August 17, 2026
    If you’re in the final stretch of the summer holidays and you’re feeling a weird mix of “I want to soak this up” and “I… Read more: Free (and free-ish) things to do in the summer holidays (that work with a big age gap)
  • teen drinking juice and working on laptop - copyright realparent.co.uk
    The Hard Truths of Homeschooling an auADHD TeenAugust 13, 2026
    Homeschooling a teen is a lot. Homeschooling a teen with auADHD (autism + ADHD) can feel like you’re running a small country with no staff,… Read more: The Hard Truths of Homeschooling an auADHD Teen
  • Young woman savoring take-out street food outdoors in a cityscape.
    7 Unforgettable Milestone Trips for FamiliesAugust 6, 2026
    Some moments deserve more than a quick meal out and a few photos. The kind of moments when you look around and think, “We should… Read more: 7 Unforgettable Milestone Trips for Families
  • young girls enjoying themselves at a wedding - jumping for confetti
    How to Plan The Perfect Family-Friendly WeddingJuly 30, 2026
    Planning a wedding when you’ve got children in the mix (whether they’re yours, nieces and nephews, or a whole gaggle of friends’ kids) doesn’t have… Read more: How to Plan The Perfect Family-Friendly Wedding
  • Pages from the 'I'm bored' summer activity pack
    Screen Time Rules That Save Everyone’s Eyes (and Sanity)July 30, 2026
    Screens are part of daily life for most families now. Kids use tablets for homework, parents work from laptops, and everyone winds down with a… Read more: Screen Time Rules That Save Everyone’s Eyes (and Sanity)
  • guess who and scavenger hunt sheets laying on a table
    100 Things To Do When Kids Are Bored This Summer HolidaysJuly 27, 2026
    The summer holidays are brilliant… until you hear “I’m boooored!” for the tenth time before breakfast. If you’re running out of ideas (and patience), here… Read more: 100 Things To Do When Kids Are Bored This Summer Holidays
  • Advocating for a Child with Disability
    Advocating for a Child with a Disability – School Support and BenefitsJuly 10, 2026
    Parenting is hard enough without having to become a part-time caseworker, form-filler, and legal researcher. If your child is disabled (or you strongly suspect they… Read more: Advocating for a Child with a Disability – School Support and Benefits
  • child playing with a little toy in their room
    How to Create a Montessori-Inspired Nursery (Without Going Overboard)June 27, 2026
    Designing a nursery is one of the loveliest parts of getting ready for a new baby. It’s also one of those things that can spiral… Read more: How to Create a Montessori-Inspired Nursery (Without Going Overboard)
  • family smiling at a young toddler running around. man holding baby, man on a mobility vehicle
    What I Always Check Before a Road Trip With My Parents (Now They’re in Their 70s)June 8, 2026
    Road trips with elderly parents or grandparents can be genuinely lovely. More chats, more nostalgia, and usually a few “oh, I haven’t been there in… Read more: What I Always Check Before a Road Trip With My Parents (Now They’re in Their 70s)
  • blue marl frug in a paddock in the cotswolds with tongue hanging out with one blue eye and one brown eye
    Best Things to Do with Your Dog Near Pet-Friendly Holiday Cottages in the CotswoldsJune 3, 2026
    The Cotswolds are one of the UK’s most beautiful destinations for a countryside escape, and it’s even better when your four-legged friend can come along… Read more: Best Things to Do with Your Dog Near Pet-Friendly Holiday Cottages in the Cotswolds
  • walking to uni
    What Uni Is Really Like (From Someone Who Loved It)June 1, 2026
    When people imagine university, they often think about libraries, exams, deadlines and lecture theatres. While academics are obviously very central to the experience, a lot… Read more: What Uni Is Really Like (From Someone Who Loved It)
  • Lady taking a selfie at wimbledon looking over the tennis court and crowd
    What Sports Are On This Summer? UK TV Guide + Where to WatchMay 29, 2026
    If you’re anything like me, summer sport has a habit of sneaking up on you. One minute, it’s we should watch that, and the next,… Read more: What Sports Are On This Summer? UK TV Guide + Where to Watch
  • family watching football on the television cheering goal
    How to Host an Epic Summer of Sports Watch PartyMay 28, 2026
    I love the idea of a watch party. Especially as there are SO MANY sports events being televised this summer. However, I do not love… Read more: How to Host an Epic Summer of Sports Watch Party

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Lucy Clarke from RealParent.co.uk talking candidly on the Emma's Diary Podcast about her 3 childbirth experiences Lucy Clarke from RealParent.co.uk talking candidly on the Emma's Diary Podcast about her 3 childbirth experiences
Listen to REAL talk on my 3 births on the Emma's Diary Podcast on Spotify!

Latest blog comments

  1. David on What I Keep in the Car Now After Breaking Down on the School RunJune 11, 2026

    Breaking down during the school run is something every driver hopes to avoid, but it’s a great reminder to stay…

  2. Lucy Clarke on The Best School Shoes For Active KidsMay 27, 2026

    I feel you, Angela! My eldest is scooting mad and spends his days at the skate park. We have found…

  3. Lucy Clarke on Moji & Mila Monkey Book Review (+ Free Monkey Maze Printable)May 26, 2026

    Hi Sarah Ann H! Thank you for leaving a comment - we're excited for the upcoming books :) Thanks again…

  4. Sarah Ann H on Moji & Mila Monkey Book Review (+ Free Monkey Maze Printable)May 26, 2026

    I big thank you to Beau for his very well considered review :-) So glad he enjoyed the books and…

  5. Angela on The Best School Shoes For Active KidsMay 21, 2026

    Great post, so relatable thank you! I have three football mad boys destroying shoes regularly! Our problem is that they…

  6. Amanda on The McDonald’s Cards have me in a chokehold (and I am not even hungry)April 9, 2026

    Yes I've just started, late to the game and very addictive have 9/24 so long way to go

Family Travel

  • Young woman savoring take-out street food outdoors in a cityscape.
    7 Unforgettable Milestone Trips for Families
  • family smiling at a young toddler running around. man holding baby, man on a mobility vehicle
    What I Always Check Before a Road Trip With My Parents (Now They’re in Their 70s)
  • blue marl frug in a paddock in the cotswolds with tongue hanging out with one blue eye and one brown eye
    Best Things to Do with Your Dog Near Pet-Friendly Holiday Cottages in the Cotswolds
  • Off-Slope Fun
    Your Ultimate Guide to a Family Skiing Holiday + Packing Checklist
  • Woman broken down on the side of the road
    What I Keep in the Car Now After Breaking Down on the School Run
  • If Packing Makes You Want to Cancel the Family Trip, Read This
    If Packing Makes You Want to Cancel the Family Trip, Read This
  • Looking at the Natural History Museum on a sunny day in London
    How to Not Overpack for a London City Break With Kids
  • Dogs and people playing on a Hampshire beach
    The Best Dog-Friendly Beaches in Hampshire UK
  • Children see wonder where adults often see routine
    Making Family Travel Fun and Stress-Free
  • Children's Autumn Activities in North County San Diego
    Children’s Autumn Activities in North County San Diego

Parenting

  • lady smiling and baby in pram
    How To Make Leaving The House With A Baby Much Less Stressful
  • 10 Truths Of A Football Mum
    9 Truths Of Being A Badass Football Mum
  • Tattooed white woman breastfeeding her new baby
    Critical Post-Birth Health Checks Many New Mums Don’t Know They Need
  • The 6 7 trend explained
    “6, 7!” Explained
  • Can You Still Have Kids? Let’s Talk About Your Options
    Can You Still Have Kids? Let’s Talk About Your Options
  • Gentle Home Remedies to Soothe and Heal
    Bloody Boogers in Babies: Possible Causes, Remedies, and When to Be Concerned
  • Teaching Your Kids To Be Confident in Healthcare Settings: A Parent's Guide
    Teaching Your Kids To Be Confident in Healthcare Settings: A Parent’s Guide
  • Ways to Positively Impact Children's Lives
    Ways to Positively Impact Children’s Lives
  • Tips for Getting Your Child's First Phone
    Tips for Getting Your Child’s First Phone
  • Sell them on
    The Experienced Parents Guide to Getting Your Home Ready For a New Baby

Activities

  • kids looking out at a clear river
    Free (and free-ish) things to do in the summer holidays (that work with a big age gap)
  • guess who and scavenger hunt sheets laying on a table
    100 Things To Do When Kids Are Bored This Summer Holidays
  • family watching football on the television cheering goal
    How to Host an Epic Summer of Sports Watch Party
  • An orangutan reading Moji & Mila Monkey books in the sunshine
    Moji & Mila Monkey Book Review (+ Free Monkey Maze Printable)
  • Mother holding a paint by numbers canvas with numbered sections and paint palette in a cozy home setting
    The Surprisingly Satisfying Hobby You Can Do in 20 Minutes
  • Looking at the Natural History Museum on a sunny day in London
    How to Not Overpack for a London City Break With Kids
  • 20 Best Family Raincoats for UK Weather
    20 Raincoats For All Of The Family
  • Owl show at christmas Hampshire uk
    32 Christmas Markets in Hampshire 2025
  • Free Letter to Santa Sheets by Realparent.co.uk
    Free Letter to Santa Printables
  • Free Christmas Activity Pack Printables by RealParent.co.uk
    Free Christmas Activities Printables

Life

  • short haired lady wearing pink jacket putting hands in front of face
    I’m 45, and My Skin Has Never Been This Bad (Here’s What I’m Doing)
  • woman using phone
    Doomscrolling Made Me Feel Worse, So I Swapped It for This
  • me holding my mcdonald's fry girl card
    The McDonald’s Cards have me in a chokehold (and I am not even hungry)
  • image of an elderly lady with her son on a leisurely walk, sharing a deep conversation
    Five Ways You Can Help Your Elderly Parents
  • Understanding the Importance of Dedicated Dementia Care Homes
    Understanding the Importance of Dedicated Dementia Care Homes
  • Cocktail under canvas: designing a party that flows
    Cocktail under canvas: designing a party that flows
  • How To Honour Someone Without A Formal Goodbye
    How To Honour Someone Without A Formal Goodbye
  • Make sure your car is in excellent condition
    What To Look For When Buying A Family Car
  • The Easy Guide to Life Insurance for Families
    The Easy Guide to Life Insurance for Families
  • Take plenty of rest breaks
    What Are The Best Car Types For A Family Vehicle?

Toys

  • From Tummy Time to Toddlerhood: How Sensory Toys Grow With Your Child
    From Tummy Time to Toddlerhood: How Sensory Toys Grow With Your Child
  • Akedo Powerstorm Triple Strike Tag Team Arena Gameplay + Review
    Akedo Powerstorm Triple Strike Tag Team Arena – video gameplay + review
  • Jaques of London kids construction bench & chess set review [+ special 15% discount code]
    Jaques of London toys & games review [+ 15% discount]
  • BOT CARZ AZ1 – Awesome RC Car
    BOT CARZ AZ1 Review – Awesome RC Car
  • Cheeky Monsters Character Review
    Taking On The Cheeky Monsters Challenge [Plus Character & Book Review]
  • Snapsies Toy Review
    Snapsies Surprise Toy Review: Did We Get A Rare One?
  • Spintensity 5 Second Rule
    How To Play Spintensity 5 Second Rule (+ Full Game Rules)
  • How to Ensure Your Children Are Happy and Having Fun
    Peppa Pig Toy Review: What The Preschoolers Really Thought
  • Herodrive Marvel MOD Squad Mash Ups
    Herodrive Marvel Vehicles: Unboxing The Brand New Range
  • Goo Goo Galaxy Slurp 'n' Slime Goo Drop Purge Time
    Goo Goo Galaxy Slurp ‘n’ Slime Goo Drop – The Puking Alien!

Style

  • Effortless School Run to Work Outfits With One Cosy Fleece Jacket
    4 Effortless School Run to Work Outfits With One Cosy Fleece Jacket
  • 20 Best Family Raincoats for UK Weather
    20 Raincoats For All Of The Family
  • Savvy Ways To Make Your Kid's Clothing Budget Go Further
    Savvy Ways To Make Your Kid’s Clothing Budget Go Further
  • Your Guide to Reviving Iconic Looks for Everyday Adventures
    Your Guide to Reviving Iconic Looks for Everyday Adventures
  • Why Longchamp Bags Are Perfect for Stylish and Practical Parents
    Why Longchamp Bags Are Perfect for Stylish and Practical Parents
  • Embrace Eye Care and Ageless Beauty with Glasses
    How to Embrace Eye Care and Ageless Beauty with Glasses
  • Autumn Fashion: Ensuring Your Man Stays Warm and Chic
    Autumn Menswear: How to Stay Warm and Stylish
  • A Short Guide to Silver
    A Short Guide to Silver
  • Stretch Your Clothing Budget Further with Kids
    Spring Capsule Wardrobe Updates with Peacebird and Minipeace [+ exclusive 15% discount code]

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