Tech that fits into family life and increases productivity

Tech that fits into family life and increases productivity

20/12/2024

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We all know how distracting social media and smartphones can be but we also know that technology can be a great tool that actually helps us to be more productive, healthier and improve our overall wellbeing and that can fit into our family life in a positive way. 

As we approach the new year I know many of us are starting to think how we can improve our life or home, mental and physical health and starting to set goals for the year ahead. We may want to connect with our family more, be more present, move more and get into nature & not surprisingly tech can really help with that when used correctly. 

For me personally, I want to tap more into both my physical and mental wellbeing, be better with time management and make space for creativity and self care, something I struggle with as a busy parent. 

Here are a few pieces of tech I am introducing into my life to help me do that. 

1. GO Air Sport True Wireless Headphones

With two music-loving kids, who have different taste to me, I feel like I rarely get time to listen to the music I love but with these wireless headphones that easily pop into my bag, I can listen on the go, when on a dog walk, or waiting in the kids at one of their activities or even when cooking in the kitchen and I can also share one of them with my kids in the hopes to educate them with the best 90's jams.

2. Huawei Watch Fit 3

This slim smartwatch allows me to track my sleep patterns, something I really want to improve on as well as being the perfect fitness companion with a built-in GPS tracker which let's you virtually see the distance of your routes and how far you went, whether that be a family hike in nature or a trail run. I feel this gives me some accountability and insight into my daily activities but in a positive way that fits into my busy family life.

3. Lumie Vitamin L SAD Light

I really struggle with the short days and dark nights, especially having grown up in South Africa and consistent sunshine. My mood and energy levels really dip during the winter months, so this Lumie light has been on my list for a long time. The Lumie Vitamin L light allows you to benefit from bright light all year round and is proven to boost mood and energy levels which of course have a positive effect when it comes to my parenting and being present and engaged with the kids. 

4. GoPro HERO10 Black Action Camera

A GoPro is the perfect camera for family life, it's so robust and waterproof, so it can handle anything that is thrown at it and is also perfect for those who love getting outdoors and being active. As a family with SUP, kayak, hike, skate and surf so I know it's going to be a great way to document all our adventures in the new year. Photography is such a creative hobby and the GoPro isn't just great for adults bit also for kids to get to grips and improve their photography and video skills. 

We are definitely a tech-positive household that see's the right tech as tools to improve our lives and actually help bring us closer together as a family and outdoors more. I am really looking forward to see the kids improving their photography skills in the new year, knowing more about my health and sleep patterns and improving my mood with the Lumie Light. All of these products are from Very.co.uk which offers a fantastic range of tech to fit all your needs. 

*This post is a collaboration with Very, words are my own. 

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Why Every Child Should Learn an Instrument

Why Every Child Should Learn an Instrument

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As a parent, we all want to enrich our children's lives and give them the chance to experience as many things as possible and playing a musical instrument provides children with a host of benefits that can last a lifetime. Whether you are a parent or carer, learning an instrument should be considered an essential part of your children’s development and education. Here's why every child deserves the opportunity to pick up an instrument.

 
Enhances Brain Development

Numerous studies have shown that learning to play an instrument enhances brain development in children. Specifically, it helps build connections between the left and right hemispheres of the brain. This improves coordination, concentration, memory, visual, aural and language skills. Starting musical training early maximises these neurological benefits. Even just a few years of lessons can rewire the brain for enhanced development. This makes music a great tool for both educational and cognitive growth.

Teaches Discipline

Mastering a musical instrument requires discipline. To progress, students must devote regular time to practice. This encourages the development of grit, resilience and determination as children learn to persevere through challenges. These traits serve children incredibly well later in their academic studies and adult lives. Musical instruments provide an excellent outlet for teaching self-discipline, which is beneficial for all children but it’s also good for those who are fostered with agencies like Orange Grove Foster Care, as they may not have been given the opportunity to learn an instrument before.

Boosts Confidence

There is an undeniable sense of achievement and satisfaction in mastering an instrument. With each new song or technique learned, children gain confidence in their abilities. This can be particularly empowering for foster children who lack self-esteem. Musical accomplishments also provide a sense of pride to share with peers, teachers and foster families. Performance opportunities, such as recitals or talent shows, further help boost confidence.

Enhances Social Skills

Group music classes allow kids to interact with peers and develop their social skills. They learn to work together, build trust and support one another’s musical development. For children in foster care who may struggle with forming attachments and friendships, this social aspect of music education can be valuable. Even individual music lessons still allow kids to form meaningful bonds with their instructors.

Relieves Stress

Childhood can be filled with anxiety. Learning and playing music has been shown to help relieve stress in kids by lowering the stress hormone cortisol. The repetitive nature of practicing scales, chords and pieces is calming and meditative. Having a creative musical outlet gives foster kids a way to express themselves in a healthy manner.

Opens New Interests

Once a child starts lessons, they may discover a genuine lifelong passion for music. This can open up new hobbies, social circles, career paths and opportunities. Music education provides enrichment that can benefit them far beyond just schooling.

Affordable & Accessible

The great news is that musical instruction does not have to be expensive. Most primary schools offer affordable group classes in instruments like recorder or percussion that just require purchase of the instrument and lesson book. Community music programmes and local freelance instructors often charge lower rates too. With so many instruments available from guitar to piano and reasonable lesson rates, the gift of music education is accessible for every child.

Learning an instrument undoubtedly enriches a child’s development. The benefits are numerous, long-lasting and well worth the investment of time and money. Music education deserves to be a core part of childhood.

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Stylish and unique gift ideas this Christmas

Stylish and unique gift ideas this Christmas

16/12/2024

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Whether you’re buying for your family or friend, finding something that feels stylish and on-trend yet meaningfully unique can be tricky. If they have got a particular hobby or interest, your task could be a bit easier, but, if you’re still struggling, here are some gift ideas this Christmas.

1. Vintage-style record player

Vintage music players are well and truly back in fashion. If they’re a music lover, old-school or not, a vintage-inspired record player could be the perfect addition to their home. I have one and absolutely love it and use it all the time. 

Modern record players combine the charm of classic vinyl with modern technology, offering Bluetooth connectivity and high-quality sound. Pair it with a selection of vinyl records to create a thoughtful and stylish gift filled with nostalgia.

2. A personalised wallet

Cash, in my mind, is still king, but even if the person your looking for prefers digital payments, a wallet is still a very useful and both a secure and fashionable way to keep cards and personal items. A personalised leather wallet or card holder can be both stylish and practical.

Look for one that’s made from high quality and think of a special customisation to make it truly theirs. Initials are sophisticated, but a special message engraved inside could make it even more meaningful.

3. Skincare set

Not only women but also men are embracing skincare and self-care routines these days, making it a great option for all this year. 

There are plenty of options out there as well from high end designer sets to set's that focus on natural ingredients and skincare without the harsh chemicals. 


4. Outdoor adventure or sports gear

If they love spending time outside, high-quality adventure or sports gear will always go down a treat. Whether it’s a durable hiking jacket, multifunctional backpack or a set of warm thermal layers, activewear is both practical and thoughtful. Perhaps the 24/25 Liverpool FC home kit could be ideal if he’s a Red.

Depending on your budget, choose items from trusted adventure brands like Patagonia, The North Face or Montbell. Otherwise, accessories like thermal flasks or thick socks are more affordable and just as useful.

5. A stylish backpack

For someone who commutes daily or enjoys weekend trips, a high-quality backpack could be the perfect, practical gift.

A sleek, minimalist design in durable leather can give a classic look that ages well with time. It’s versatile enough to be used for both work and travel, and is the kind of gift that will last for years.

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Why Should You Focus On Taking Control Of Your Finances

Why Should You Focus On Taking Control Of Your Finances

13/12/2024

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Taking control of your finances isn’t the most glamorous of undertakings but it is undoubtedly one of the most important things you can do as an adult, both for the short term and with your future in mind and going into the new year with a clear understanding of your finances is a good start. The cost-of-living crisis that began in late 2021 was only the latest example of how fickle markets can be, and how quickly household finances can be turned on their head.

Even in the best economic environments, financial literacy is a key consideration. Without careful management of your money, it can be easy to fall into unsustainable spending patterns and potentially unmanageable debt. What are some key ways in which you can reverse course, and properly get a grip on your money?

Understanding Your Spending Patterns

In order to take positive steps towards handling your finances, you must first have a proper understanding of your own financial situation. There are some essential questions you should be able to answer, and, ideally, the answers to these questions should all be placed within a personal finance spreadsheet for ease of tracking. 

The questions are, in essence: how much do you make a month? How much must you spend each month, on housing, bills and essential groceries? And what, if any, debts do you owe?

Knowing the answers to these core questions means you can make shrewd and targeted decisions about your future. For instance, between your monthly income and essential monthly outgoings, you know exactly what your ceiling is for maximum monthly savings and how much you can put towards minimising debts or building savings.

Exploring Financial Solutions Sensibly

Knowing your baseline is, of course, step one of a multi-step process – the next of which is discerning what exactly will help you going forward. Setting a manageable personal budget, allowing for some fun expenditure each month, is a given; with a budget, you can more aggressively police your passive spending and improve your long-term savings as a result.

Monthly budgets don’t allow for the big things, though – and sometimes, big purchases are a necessary evil. Secured loans are a solid idea for funding bigger expenditures up-front, and without affecting the stature of your savings, but you must take care when considering taking on debt of any kind. Provided your monthly budget can account for more than the minimum monthly repayments on such a loan, you may be safe.

Setting and Prioritising Financial Goals

Of course, taking control of your finances isn’t something you just up and start doing. You need to have a clear idea as to what your aims are. Do you want to save a certain amount of money towards retirement, or are you hoping to get debt-free before a certain age? Establishing clear goals like these helps you focus on what truly matters, and properly cater your money management tactics to your ideal goal.

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How to Make Your Kitchen Feel Warm This Winter

How to Make Your Kitchen Feel Warm This Winter

06/12/2024

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In the middle of winter, everyone wants to return to warm kitchen after being outside. There’s nothing quite like taking off your boots, sitting at the table and taking that first sip of hot tea after a chilly walk.

Whether you’re decorating your first home or planning a renovation, it’s worth putting time and effort into the kitchen and it's an area of the home I have priortised myself. There has been a lot of learning curves and I've learnt a lot along the way so I thought. Below, we’ve shared some of the most practical and stylish ideas for a cosy kitchen this winter.

Introduce warm colour palettes

Rich, warm hues make for an inviting kitchen atmosphere, especially during the colder months. From deep terracotta to mustard yellow and forest green, earthy tones can be paired or used as statement walls to evoke a snug, characterful ambience.

Whether applied through ornaments, fixtures or textiles, green kitchens are versatile, refreshing spaces. Why not change your kitchen cupboard doors, or perhaps place a warm jute rug under the dining room table?


Enhance and layer the lighting

Choose soft, ambient lighting to make everyone feel relaxed and ready to dine. Under-cabinet lights can be particularly useful on those dark afternoons, while table lamps add a helpful glow to your evening reading.

Dimmable features make a wonderful addition for anyone who loves entertaining in their kitchen. Avoid harsh overhead lights but remember that the best things come in threes. Why not place three ceramic pendant lights above your kitchen island for a gorgeous, industrial effect?

Incorporate natural elements

Hark back to tradition with wooden accents, stone surfaces, or exposed beams to give your kitchen even more character. Whether that’s an artisan wooden chopping board or farmhouse tile underfoot, there are many ways to celebrate nature from the kitchen.

Natural materials add softness and an authentic, raw feel to your kitchen. They help to create a clean and peaceful atmosphere, especially in contrast with metals and glossy ceramics. Just remember that natural materials may need specific care, so always do your research first.


Add seasonal aromas

Finally, remember that winter is just the right time to introduce festive aromas. Allow hints of cinnamon, spiced apple and cardamom to flow through the kitchen and dining space, evoking a sense of warmth and helping you feel instantly at home.

Decorating with seasonal items like evergreen garlands or limited-edition pottery could enhance the atmosphere. From Emma Bridgewater to Le Creuset, there’s bound to be a homeware brand that perfectly suits your style. With creativity and a loving vision, your dream kitchen can come to life just in time for Christmas.

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Essential reasons to have ankle pain treated by a physiotherapy clinic

Essential reasons to have ankle pain treated by a physiotherapy clinic

05/12/2024

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Being someone who has done competitive sport when I was younger and of course sustained injuries doing it, I know how important Physiotherapy is when it comes to your healing. To get the most from a person’s body and mind it is essential that they take proper care of themselves. It is very easy to neglect important things such as rest and recovery as the demands of the modern world have led to living life on the go. That can mean something as simple as not wearing the correct footwear creating injuries, as does not loosening up properly before taking exercise.


While it is encouraging to see many people taking up jogging or going for a bike ride at  dawn or dusk, when the temperatures is cooler, it's really important to warm up properly to reduce the risk of injury. It can be easy to overlook bu you really shouldn't especially as we age and if things start to hurt, such as an ankle, don't just assume it will repair itself. It is essential if you are experiencing any pain that is not resolving itself to visit a physiotherapy clinic to receive treatment for ankle sprain at the earliest opportunity.


The ankle, a commonly injured area, is a vital part of anyone’s body, bearing so much weight meaning that it must be kept strong and healthy. It is easy to sprain a muscle or joint and continue as normal, but that is likely to lead to a more severe injury and even a long-term condition forming which can lead to complications in the years that follow. Those suffering from an ankle sprain who try to continue with everyday life as normal put undue pressure on other parts to try and mask the pain, which puts them under undue pressure and can create further issues. In the same way that chiropractic services are required for spine health, a visit to a physiotherapist is the best option for ankle pain.

Something as simple as wearing high heels on uneven pavements can lead to strains and sprains which require urgent attention. A physio will provide the right treatment for repairs as well as offer preventative ways to avoid issues from recurring. Sometimes it might require rest and elevation of the ankle, which can be just as invaluable as physical manipulation and offers the shortest recovery time. Strains and fractures can occur when partaking in contact sports such as martial arts, Muay Thai, and football. A professional physiotherapist may advise braces that provide additional support during the recovery process or therapy so that the sufferer can soon discover mountains.


Strengthening techniques might be the best option advised by a healthcare professional for conditions such as tendonitis while any underlying issues can be diagnosed. Ankle pain can strike those of all ages and can occur innocently without any real issues at the time, which manifests later. The most effective treatment as early as possible can save a lot of problems and means avoiding surgery. A physiotherapist knows which exercises to introduce so that the healing process relieves pain and allows those treated to enjoy better sleep without distraction which can affect someone trying to concentrate at work.


It is important for anyone suffering ankle issues to head to a physiotherapy clinic and receive the right diagnoses and correct treatment so that pain is reduced, with strength restored.

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