The Gruffalo
Julia Donaldson and Alex Scherzler
Dear Reader,
With children’s mental health issues at an alltime high and Mental Health Awareness Week approaching (11th-17th May), this issue focuses on children's mental health. We offer advice for parents and carers to build positive relationships that may help with their children's mental health challenges. Support for children is usually free through the NHS, schools or local council services. ChildLine also provides a free, confidential service for children to discuss any concerns.
facebook.com/famcambsmag
Wise words!
A child’s mental health is just as important as their physical health. Catherine, Princess of Wales
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Quality Care and Education
Educating for the age of AI
Parenting Resources
Mental Health Feature
Clubs and Classes
EDITOR: Lisa Exell 01945 861336, editor@familiescambridgeshire.co.uk
ASSISTANT EDITOR: Suzanne Brown, admin@familiescambridgeshire.co.uk
SOCIAL MEDIA: Suzanne Brown, admin@familiescambridgeshire.co.uk
DESIGN: Caroline Thompson-Heap, caroline@thompson-heap.com
A FAMILY TICKET TO A SQUASH AND A SQUEEZE! *
The magical world of A Squash and a Squeeze comes to life on stage at The Arts Theatre Cambridgethe perfect May half term trip!
Once upon a time, a little old lady lived all by herself in her cosy cottage, but she wasn’t happy - her house felt just too small. Whatever could she do?
Join us for a heartwarming and hilarious adventure, full of beautiful puppets and enchanting songs. To enter, visit our Facebook page @famcambsmag and like and share our post. Good luck!
*4 tickets to see any performance between Wed to Fri only
News & Views
FAMILY FUN WITH NATIONAL CHILDREN’S GARDENING WEEK
This summer, why not get involved in National Children’s Gardening week?
Taking place from 23-31 May in the ‘warm’ half term at the end of May means that pretty much throughout the UK, children can plant all their favourite plants with less fear of weather damage or the need for complicated protective growing.
As well as simply good outdoor fun, gardening has been shown to have many benefits to health and wellbeing including being more physically active and feeling happier and more connected with the natural world.
There are many ways to get involved with National Children’s Gardening Week from DIY activities at home, to attending an event at a local garden centre.
More info: www.childrensgardeningweek.co.uk
Enjoy Open Farm Sunday
Open Farm Sunday on 7 June will be celebrating 20 years providing a unique opportunity for families to explore real working farms and learn more about the countryside.
Managed by LEAF (Linking Environment and Farming), this annual event allows families and individuals to witness daily farm activities, engage with passionate farmers and learn about sustainable practices.
Visitors can enjoy tractor-trailer rides, farm tours, nature trails, bug hunts,and even shop at farmers’ markets. The event bridges the gap between consumers and farmers, emphasising the importance of British agriculture.
It’s an educational, community-focused day that celebrates the hard work behind our food production and offers free access to farm experiences. To find a farm opening their gates near you, visit www. farmsunday.org
Summer Charm in organic cotton
Crafted from soft, breathable organic cotton and gauze, The Little White Company’s collection is designed with comfort and longevity in mind. Playful lemon motifs, soft yellow hues, gingham checks and nautical stripes run throughout easy-to-wear staples, from relaxed dungarees and shorts to rompers and matching sets.
Each piece is made to be washed, worn and passed down, combining thoughtful design with long-lasting quality that families can rely on season after season.
Organic cotton blend gingham bow back dress £40. Organic cotton crochet flower top and shorts set £50. www.thewhitecompany.com
FORMULA SAVINGS BOOST FOR PARENTS
Parents in the UK can now use supermarket loyalty points, vouchers and gift cards to buy baby formula under recent government plans aimed at cutting the cost of feeding infants. Infant formula has traditionally been excluded from discounts and promotions in the UK to protect breastfeeding rates. However, the government says allowing loyalty points and vouchers will give families more flexibility without encouraging advertising or price promotions.
Schools Empower Pupils to Take Climate Action with JUST ONE Tree
Schools are discovering that giving pupils meaningful opportunities to take action for the environment can have a powerful impact — not only for the planet, but for pupil engagement and school pride.
Across the UK, many pupils are increasingly aware of the challenges of climate change and biodiversity loss. While eco-committees and sustainability groups are common in schools, turning that enthusiasm into real-world action can sometimes be difficult.
JUST ONE Tree is helping schools make a difference through their annual JUST ONE Tree Day—a fun, educational nonuniform day where every £1 raised plants a tree. Free educational resources are provided and to date, over a quarter of a million children across 17 countries have taken part.
The event enables schools to support global reforestation and ecosystem restoration projects while helping pupils understand the role they can play in protecting the planet.
By taking part, pupils learn that even small actions can contribute to larger environmental solutions.
The sense of pride this can create among pupils is already being seen in schools that have taken part.
Schools are increasingly recognising that sustainability initiatives can strengthen engagement across their community. In addition to supporting environmental learning, they help develop a sense of responsibility and collective purpose among pupils.
Schools can register at: www.justonetree.life/schools-sustainability
FOSTER CARE FORTNIGHT SPOTLIGHTING CARERS AND CALLING FOR ACTION
Foster Care Fortnight is running from 11-24 May and is shining a spotlight on foster carers, kinship carers and the wider fostering community under the theme This is Fostering.
Organised by The Fostering Network, the campaign combines local events, social media toolkits, a Foster Walk and an art competition to celebrate positive outcomes and share everyday fostering stories.
Campaigners will use the fortnight to press for practical reforms, highlighting pressures such as low allowances, inconsistent support and carers feeling excluded from decisions about children’s lives.
The initiative frames celebration and campaigning together, urging government and local authorities to commit to sustained funding, better training and clearer support pathways so more children can thrive in stable homes.
More info: www.thefosteringnetwork.org.uk
Free breakfast clubs expanding Universal free breakfast clubs are expanding across England, another 500 schools joined the scheme in April meaning more than 1,250 schools are now offering free morning meals with an estimated 300,000 children benefitting.
The government says a further 1,500 schools will join in September, bringing the total to around 2,750 and extending provision to roughly 680,000 children by the autumn.
Ministers and school leaders highlight multiple aims: reducing stigma around targeted support, giving children a calmer start to the day, and saving families up to £450 a year through reduced morning costs.
Early evaluations point to benefits for attendance, behaviour and attainment, and polling suggests universal access increases take-up among parents who might otherwise feel guilty about accepting help.
As the scheme rolls out in May, campaigners say the priority is ensuring schools have the staff, space and funding to scale up without compromising quality.
NHS TRAINING TEACHERS TO SPOT EATING DISORDERS
The NHS has begun training teachers, school nurses and GPs to help spot early signs of eating disorders and speed referrals to specialist services. The programme delivered workshops on common warning signs, sensitive conversations and local referral pathways, aiming to reduce delays that can leave young people reaching crisis before treatment.
Health leaders said the initiative targeted schools and primary care as critical early detection points and expected improved identification to increase referrals to community and specialist teams. Clinicians warned that earlier detection would place extra demand on already stretched services and called for parallel investment in treatment capacity.
Parents and campaigners welcomed the move but urged clear guidance for schools, routine safeguarding protocols and faster access to specialist care. The NHS said it would monitor outcomes and work with local systems to manage rising demand in coming months.
HALF OF PARENTS WANT TO PLAY MORE WITH THEIR CHILDREN, STUDY FINDS
Nearly half of parents spend less than an hour playing with their children during the working week, despite many wishing they had more time to do so, new research by CBeebies Parenting suggests.
A survey of 575 UK parents with children aged under six found that 48% spend under an hour a week playing with their child between Monday and Friday. Around 44% said they struggle to find enough time for play, while 83% said they wish they could spend more time playing together.
More than half of parents (51%) said they would like more ideas for activities, and one in four admitted they are unsure what their role should be during playtime.
Despite time pressures, most parents recognise the benefits. Three-quarters said play strengthens their relationship with their child, while others reported improvements in imagination, speech and confidence after spending time playing together.
Experts say even short, simple play sessions can help strengthen family bonds and support children’s development.
Join in during Walk to School Week
A generation ago, seventy percent of us walked to school - now it’s less than half. So Walk to School Week was started to encourage more kids to get out of the car and walk to school.
Walk to School Week is held from 18 to 22 May and is organised by the UK charity Living Streets to celebrate the health and wellbeing benefits of walking.
Families will be encouraged to walk, cycle, scoot or Park and Stride to see the big differences that can come from small steps - from healthier and happier children who arrive refreshed, fit and ready to learn - to less congestion and fewer cars outside the school gates.
Download the Family Walk to School Kit, designed to help parents, carers and children make the walk to school work for them. Visit www.livingstreets.org.uk/walk-to-school
Autistic pupil numbers in UK state schools rise by more than 20% in three years
The number of autistic children in state schools across the UK has increased by more than 20% in the past three years, according to new government data.
Analysis by the children’s mental health charity Let’s Talk Well found significant growth in the number of pupils with autism across both primary and secondary education since 2022. Primary schools have seen a rise of around 23% in autistic pupils, while the number in secondary schools has increased by more than 30%.
Experts say the increase reflects greater awareness of autism and improved diagnosis, but it also highlights the growing demand for specialist support in classrooms.
Many autistic pupils receive additional help through Education, Health and Care (EHC) plans, which provide tailored support for children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).
The figures come as the government has pledged £200 million to train teachers and improve support for pupils with SEND, as schools continue to face rising demand for specialist resources and staff training.
What’s On
Things to do, places to go and fun to be had for kids of all ages in
Cambridgeshire
Visit South Cambs
For a wide variety of attractions, activities, culture and heritage venues, green spaces, parks, markets and more, take a look at Visit South Cambs website. www.visitsouthcambs.co.uk
Family Days Out
WHEN: Open daily
WHERE: Anglesey Abbey, Lode, Cambridge NT
The perfect place for a family adventure. Pick up a Borrow Basket from the Visitor Centre, try out the Woodland Play Area and the Den Building Area. www.nationaltrust.org.uk
Family Fun at the Zoo
WHEN: Open daily, 10.00am-4.00pm
WHERE: Hamerton Zoo Park, Nr Sawtry
Visit the wonderful animals, ride the 'K-T Express' railroad train, let off steam in the two play areas, and more. Adult £19.99; Child £15.99; Under 3s go free. www.hamertonzoopark.com
Paxton Pits Nature Reserve
WHEN: Open daily
WHERE: Little Paxton
This reserve is a lovely place to enjoy nature, made up of lakes, meadows and woodland rich in wildlife. You’ll find guided, accessible trails and a friendly visitor centre. www.paxton-pits.org.uk
Cambridge Aqua Park
WHEN: Open weekends
WHERE: Hannam’s Wake Hub, Stretham
Fun for the whole family!
This is the first aqua park in Cambridgeshire, offering the ultimate aqua park experience. This time the big kids get to play too! All sessions must be prebooked. Age guidance, 6+ years (minimum height, 110cm). www.cambridgeaquapark.com
FAMILY FUN AT THE SCIENCE CENTRE
WHEN: Every weekend and during school holidays
WHERE: Cambridge Science Centre
Explore the wonders of science, technology, engineering and mathematics. You’ll find playful exhibits that invite curiosity, explosive science shows that captivate young imaginations and interactive workshops that turn learning into an adventure. Annual membership from £12.50. www.cambridgesciencecentre.org
WOODLAND ADVENTURE DAYS 2026
WHEN: 5 - 22 May, 1 - 9 June, 22 June - 17 July
WHERE: Audley End Enchanted Railway, Saffron Walden
Woodland Adventure Days give families off-peak opportunities to make use of Audley End’s adventure playground, explore their fairy walk and ride on one of their trains.
www.audley-end-railway.co.uk
Little Acorns in the Gardens
WHEN: Every Thurs, 7 May to 2 July, 10.30am-12.00am
WHERE: Wimpole Estate
These term time sessions offer activities such as digging, planting and crafting activities, whilst learning about the various plants in the gardens. Includes stories, songs and activities. £2.00+. Age 2 - 5 years. www.nationaltrust.org.uk
STEMtots
WHEN: Fri 8 May, Fri 15 May and Fri 22 May, 9.30 am-11.30 am WHERE: Cambridge Science Centre
STEMtots is a themed weekly, relaxed, free-flow session for pre-schoolers, designed to encourage curiosity through hands-on fun. This helps little learners explore the world around them in an engaging way. Ticket, £5.00. Age 2 - 5 years. www.cambridgesciencecentre. org
Mucky Pups
WHEN: Fri 22 May & Fri 19 June, 10.30am-12.00pm
WHERE: Wicken Fen, Ely
Messy outdoor adventures for pre-schoolers, featuring seasonal activities, crafts and stories. Perfect for curious young explorers, with an accompanying adult. £7 per child. Age 2 - 5 years. www.nationaltrust.org.uk
Gruffalo Event Weekend
WHEN: 23rd - 25th May
WHERE: Audley End Enchanted Railway, Saffron Walden
The Gruffalo is back to the Enchanted Railway this May! Say hello to family favourite The Gruffalo who will make special meet and greet appearances at intervals throughout the day across the weekend, creating unforgettable moments for little fans.
www.audley-end-railway.co.uk
A Squash and a Squeeze
WHEN: Wed 27 - Sun 31 May
WHERE: The Arts Theatre Cambridge
Step into the magical world of Julia Donaldson’s and Axel Scheffler’s A Squash and a Squeeze live on stage for the first time! A heartwarming and hilarious adventure, full of beautiful puppets and enchanting songs. Tickets £20.00+.
Age 3 - 8 years.
www.artstheatre.co.uk
My First Concert
WHEN: Thurs 28 May, 11.30am & 2.30pm
WHERE: Kings Lynn Corn Exchange
Join Jack, Jill, a very silly dog named Dilly, and their friends as they try to save the day. A high-energy show jam-packed with fun nursery rhymes and plenty of audience interaction.
Tickets: £0.00 - £19.00. Perfect for children aged 2 - 7 years. www.kingslynncornexchange. co.uk
Bluey Event Weekend
WHEN: 30th - 31st May
WHERE: Audley End Enchanted Railway, Saffron Walden
For the first time at Audley End Enchanted Railway Bluey will be visiting for your chance to meet the blue heeler pup, Bluey will make special appearances at intervals throughout the day, creating unforgettable moments for little fans.
www.audley-end-railway.co.uk
Flowers and Friendship Bracelets
WHEN: Sun 31 May, 6.00pm
WHERE: Kings Lynn Corn Exchange
The Flowers and Friendship Bracelets show takes to the stage in a dazzling explosion of music and dance! It’s the ultimate pop concert, celebrating the biggest hits from the hottest artistes of the moment. The Ultimate Concert Experience! Tickets: £26.50 www.kingslynncornexchange.co.uk
King’s Lynn Corn Exchange
Meet the Roses
WHEN: Sat 6 June, 10.00am4.00pm, drop-in
WHERE: Cambridge University Botanic Garden
Go to explore the fresh and fabulous rose family as part of the Festival of Plants. Discover which plants are part of this amazing group and create something rosy to take home. Garden entry fee applies. www.botanic.cam.ac.uk
Tom
Gates
EPIC Stage Show
WHEN: Sun 7 June, 12.30pm
WHERE: Kings Lynn Corn Exchange
This EPIC Stage Show brings alive the illustrations and music that make Tom Gates hugely popular around the world! With catchy tunes and hilarious performances, this promises to be a fun and memorable show.
Tickets £17.00 - £18.50. kingslynncornexchange.co.uk
THE
GRUFFALO
WHEN: Wed 17 - Sun 21 June
WHERE: The Arts Theatre Cambridge
Animal Tails: Coral Seas
WHEN: Fri 12 June, 10.30am & 11.30am
WHERE: Museum of Zoology, University of Cambridge
Discover the amazing animals that live on corals reefs through stories and play. Make your own reef animal to take home. FREE tickets must be booked in advance. For age 2 - 5 years.
www.museum.zoo.cam.ac.uk
Church Wood
Family Walk
WHEN: Sat 13 June, 10.00am-12.30pm
WHERE: Church Farm, Stow Bardolph
A family walk with Church Farm’s gamekeeper who will share interesting facts with you about the wild plants and animals that call Church Wood home. Ticket £10+. Age 5+.
www.churchfarmstowbardolph. co.uk
A mouse took a stroll through the deep dark wood… Tall Stories’ much-loved magical, musical adaptation of the classic picture book returns to the stage by popular demand. Songs, laughs and mischievous fun for children. Tickets £20.00+. Age 3+ www.artstheatre.co.uk
THE GRUFFALO 23rd, 24th & 25th May
We are so excited to share that we will be welcoming The Gruffalo back to our Enchanted wood this May. Join us on Saturday 23rd, Sunday 24th and Monday 25th May for your chance to see family favourite, The Gruffalo. Don’t forget to bring your camera to snap a keepsake of your little one with the Gruffalo.
Our guest will make special appearances at intervals throughout the day across the weekend, creating unforgettable moments for little fans.
Families Days Out
A Week of Much-Loved Characters and Magical Guests at Audley End Enchanted Railway
Audley End Enchanted Railway is preparing for a very exciting May Half Term filled with special guests, enchanting woodland adventures and unforgettable family moments.
With themed days running throughout the holiday, families can enjoy something different across the entire week.
BLUEY 30th & 31st May
For the first time at Audley End Enchanted Railway, we are so excited to share that Bluey will be joining us this May for ‘real life!’ Join us on the 30th & 31st May for your chance to see the blue heeler pup, Bluey. Our guest will make special appearances at intervals throughout the day, creating unforgettable moments for little fans.
FAIRY & ELF WEEKDAYS
26th-29th May
A
Week of Much-Loved Characters Guests at Audley End Enchanted
Audley End Enchanted Railway is preparing for a very exci special guests, enchan9ng woodland adventures and unforge
With themed days running throughout the holiday, families across the en9re week.
Alongside the opportunity to meet all of our special guests, you can enjoy the full enchanted experience including the woodland train ride, spotting playful teddy bear scenes as you ride through the forest. Explore the Fairy & Elf Walk and a chance to make your own magic wand with our Fairy or Elf. Try our brand new ‘Little Acorn Village’ role-play houses, and let off steam at the Adventure Playground. Take a pit stop for refreshments at the Woodland Cafe.
The Gruffalo – 23rd, 24th & 25th May
Members will be able to access a 20% discount to our event days. Check your email for more information.
We are so excited to share that we will be welcoming The wood this May. Join us on Saturday 23rd, Sunday 24th and chance to see family favourite, The Gruffalo. Don’t forget keepsake of your li@le one with the Gruffalo.
There’s so much to do this May Half Term, so grab your tickets today and join us for an unforgettable May Half Term celebration. We can’t wait to see you. Book tickets here: www.audley-end-railway.
Our guest will make special appearances at intervals throughout weekend, crea9ng unforge@able moments for li@le fans.
Our Fairies and Elves will host magical weekday adventures from 26th-29th May. Guests will be able to make their own magic wand and visit our stage show to be entertained by Melody the Fairy and Thorn the Elf.
co.uk/ Ticket includes: Train Ride, Fairy and Elf Walk, Adventure Play Area.
Fairy & Elf Weekdays – 26th–29th May
Our Fairies and Elves will host magical weekday adventures be able to make their own magic wand and visit our stage Melody the Fairy and Thorn the Elf.
Bluey – 30th & 31st May
For the first 9me at Audley End Enchanted Railway, we be joining us this May for ‘real life!’ Join us on the 30th the blue heeler pup, Bluey. Our guest will make special the day, crea9ng unforge@able moments for li@le fans.
Alongside the opportunity to meet all of our special guests, enchanted experience including the woodland train ride, as you ride through the forest. Explore the Fairy & Elf Walk magic wand with our Fairy or Elf. Try our brand new ‘Li@
Curious Experiments!
MAKE BALLOON ROCKET RACERS
WHAT YOU NEED
A balloon
Some thin string (thread or even tooth floss works even better)
A straw
Sticky tape
A clothes peg WHAT TO DO
1. Thread the string through the straw
2. Set up your string racing tracks. To do this tie the string with the straw on it so it’s completely flat. You can do from a chair to a door handle, or if you’re outside you could tie it between two trees
3. Blow up the balloon. Don’t tie it - but twist and peg the end with your clothes peg, so the air doesn’t come out (yet!)
4. Using a few pieces of sticky tape, attach the balloon to the straw (that has the string through it, from step 1)
5. Get ready!
6. Release the peg and watch the rocket take off!
7. Get your friends to set up their own rockets and race!!
Cambridge Science Centre is stuffed full of fun handson activities and awe-inspiring science adventures, for kids aged 5-11.
• Learn about states of matter in the new Chemistry Show, between now and 19 July. Explore exactly why 'Change Matters' with air, water... and ice!
• In the Labs, use infra-red thermometers to investigate insulation and explore the hidden highways of ways under your towns and cities.
• Try your hand at construction and everything else it involves with hands-on exhibits around the theme of Building a Better Future.
Open weekends and school holidays 9am - 4pm Find us on the Cambridge Science Park, near Milton.
Discover more and book your slot.
Where curious minds explore
Families Education
Educating for the age of AI
By Issy Butson
Most people familiar with the AI space will tell you something that’s hard to hear and equally hard to believe - AI will likely replace a very significant amount of global entry level white-collar jobs within the next five years. In the scale of our children’s lives, that’s effectively tomorrow.
As parents, we need to get our heads round the fact that the jobs that will be replaced will not be just low skilled jobs on factory lines, at cash registers or repetitive manual work. We must also recognise that our education system is designed to train children for the world we have been used to - in other words, to teach them things that, now, technology has also mastered.
PREPARING CHILDREN FOR THIS FUTURE
Companies are already losing faith in education pipelines that aren’t producing adaptable, job-ready people. In their place, there is a rise in skill-based hiring and project portfolios that actually show what a person can do. The future won’t care about qualifications. It will care whether you can think, build, solve problems, adapt and contribute in ways that a machine can’t.
Within the next ten years, the gap between what children are being trained for and what they’ll actually face in adulthood will just become too big to ignore.
So how do we guide children in a world that’s no longer structured around graduations, qualifications, employment, performance reviews, entry level roles and corporate ladders?
WHAT DO WE BUILD INSTEAD?
There is a tendency for our current education system to unintentionally stifle the qualities our children will most need in future - originality, independent thinking, risk taking and deep knowledge, rather than the broad, shallow knowledge needed to pass exams.
We need to get serious about a different kind of preparation for adult life. One that accepts, fully, that the future will not reward people for what they memorised but for what they can build, navigate, initiate and solve.
Here are five real-world capabilities which form a much more deliberate and demanding kind of education.
SELF-MANAGEMENT AND PERSONAL AGENCY
In a world where job structures and set working hours are far less prevalent, your child will need to know how to manage themselvesnot just their time, but their energy, attention, output and emotion. These are skills most adults were never taught. Your child should start learning them now.
DEEP WORK AND INDEPENDENT PROBLEM-SOLVING
Surface-level knowledge is everywhere. What matters is the ability to go deep - to focus without distraction, to stay with complexity
and to work through problems that don’t have obvious answers.
REAL-WORLD SKILL DEVELOPMENT
Instead of ticking boxes, help your child build tangible, functional skills. Not just academic ones - practical, creative, technical and interpersonal. The kind that lead to useful output, adaptability and confidence.
A lot of those skills won’t actually be needed for employment but all the good stuff they develop internally while building them will absolutely serve them well.
RELATIONSHIP-BUILDING
AND COLLABORATION
The most resilient people in the future will be the ones who know how to find their people, build things together and communicate across difference.
IDENTITY DEVELOPMENT AND DIRECTION-FINDING
In a world of almost infinite choice and no fixed paths, children are going to need a strong sense of who they are, what they care about and how to move toward it. That kind of direction doesn’t come from outside. It gets
built, internally, over time. Make sure they develop that deep, strong sense.
A child raised this way will build the muscles they’ll actually need in this changing world:
• Motivation without any external pressure.
• Adaptability when things change, because they will, over and over again
• Confidence to try things they’ve never done before.
• Patience to get good at something hard.
I believe we’re approaching one of the most fascinating periods of human history. But that we are woefully unprepared. So this is a call to parents who want to give their children a real head start. A call to step into this big unknown space and spend the next decade helping their children develop the resilience, confidence, adaptability and purpose that will serve them well regardless of where all this goes.
Issy Butson is the parent, home educator, blogger and podcaster Stark Raving Dad, as well as Head of Go To Market for a software company. To listen to Issy’s full podcast episode What every parent MUST know about the AI Generation, visit www. starkravingdadblog.com/what-every-parentmust-know-about-the-ai-generation
Families Parenting
Evidence-based resources for raising confident kids
There is so much information about parenting today - books, social media, podcasts, websites - much of which is excellent. But how do you sort through this abundance to find practical, trustworthy guidance that truly supports you at every stage of parenting?
Over the years, my colleagues and I have encountered and valued many resources, including newer tools we believe are especially helpful. The following resources are researchbased, practical and easy for parents to apply in everyday life.
BOOKS
How to Talk So Kids Will Listen and Listen So Kids Will Talk by Adele Faber and Elaine Mazlish has become a classic—and for good reason. In an accessible, practical way, the authors present a third path: not shouting, not giving in but listening with empathy, validating feelings, speaking respectfully, setting clear boundaries and encouraging co-operation. This approach reflects authoritative parenting, balancing warmth, connection and clear expectations.
Mindset: The New Psychology of Success by Carol Dweck introduces the powerful concept of the growth mindset. Her research shows that people who believe their abilities can grow through effort, learning and persistence are more resilient, motivated and successful than those who believe talent is fixed. For parents, this means praising effort and improvement rather than outcomes; fostering perseverance, confidence and long-term success. You can find a concise and helpful summary of Dweck’s work by neuroscientist Andrew Huberman on YouTube.
The Whole-Brain Child and The Power of Showing Up by Daniel Siegel and Tina Payne Bryson translates neuroscience into everyday parenting strategies. These books help parents understand how children’s brains develop and how responsive caregiving supports emotional regulation, resilience and secure attachment. Practical tool suggestions help manage big emotions, strengthen connection, improve communication and support healthy brain development - for both children and parents.
Parents often seek guidance specific to raising boys and girls. Decoding Boys by Cara Natterson offers valuable insights into boys’ physical, emotional and social development, helping parents nurture healthy growth, confidence, resilience and communication. For girls, we love anything by Lisa Damour. Her book Untangled beautifully explains typical girls’ development, especially during adolescence. She has a gift for clear, memorable language that helps parents understand emotional shifts and challenges. For parents of tweens and teens, she offers practical insights and tips on Instagram @Lisa. Damour.
We always recommend Tanith Carey’s What’s My… Thinking? series to parents. With titles
By Ann Maghales
covering babyhood through to teenage years, these books explain common behaviours, emotions and developmental challenges. Carey explores why behaviours happen and provides research-based strategies to respond effectively. These practical tools empower parents to support emotional development, encourage adaptive behaviour and strengthen family relationships.
APPS
Vroom Parenting is a free app we recommend to all new parents. Enter your child’s birth date to receive daily, science-based tips and simple activities that transform everyday moments into learning opportunities. Vroom supports children’s language, social, emotional and cognitive development from birth through age 5, making early brain-building easy, practical and fun.
The Mood Meter supports emotional awareness and self-regulation; essential both for parents and children. By tracking emotions, identifying patterns and offering management tools, the app helps parents build emotional intelligence and well-being. As parents become more aware of their own emotions, they model healthy emotional regulation and teach their children lifelong skills.
SOCIAL MEDIA
We also follow and recommend these thoughtful, evidence-based accounts: @6secondseq, @readysetparent, @parentfocus, @jasonschnitzercoaching (especially helpful for dads), @dramen, @earlychildhood and @drcamcaswell.
PODCASTS
Podcasts are an easy way to access expert advice on the go. We especially recommend Unruffled by Janet Lansbury, which offers calm, practical guidance for common parenting challenges. Alongside solutions, it reassures parents that they are not alone - which makes a world of difference.
We also love the Mindful Motherhood Podcast for parental well-being and emotional awareness. Since parental stress deeply impacts family dynamics, this podcast provides valuable tools for managing emotions while learning how to support children’s emotional lives.
Ann Magalhaes is co-founder of The Parent Team (www.theparent.team), parenting educators offering classes, workshops and private sessions, teaching evidence-based parenting skills and offering parents practical, effective support.
YOU ARE THE EXPERT!
When we start a new job, we receive training; when we learn to drive, we undergo testing. Yet new parents are often thrown in at the deep end, unsure how to respond calmly and effectively. While no one wants a parenting test, guidance beyond learning how to change nappies or install a car seat can be incredibly helpful.
All of us at The Parent Team became parenting educators because of real-life experience - we were in search of more effective ways to support our children. Along the way, we discovered practical, researchbased parenting tools that help children thrive.
Parenting may not come with a manual but learning to trust yourself is essential. You are the expert on your child; you understand their temperament, needs and strengths better than anyone else. Use guidance that resonates, adapt what doesn’t and make it your own.
When you combine proven parenting skills with your personal values, voice and passions, parenting becomes more intentional, confident and effective. This benefits not only your children but your entire family.
Mental Health Awareness Week: Simple family actions that can make a big difference
Mental Health Awareness Week (11-17 May)
is an annual moment to pause, reflect and - most importantly this year - take action. The theme for 2026 is action, with the Mental Health Foundation encouraging everyone to do something that supports good mental health: for ourselves, for someone else, and for all of us.
For families, this is a powerful opportunity. Everyday routines, shared moments and small habits can play a huge role in protecting and nurturing mental wellbeing. The good news?
Many of the actions that support mental health are things families can do together, and often enjoy along the way.
“Good mental health doesn’t have to mean big, dramatic changes,” says Alexa Knight, director at the Mental Health Foundation.
“Small actions, repeated regularly, can make a meaningful difference, especially when families support each other to put them into practice.”
Here are some simple ideas to try during Mental Health Awareness Week and beyond.
GET CLOSER TO NATURE
Spending time in nature is one of the most accessible and effective ways to support mental wellbeing for all ages. Being outdoors can boost mood, reduce stress and help us focus better, and it doesn’t require a countryside escape.
A local park, a shared walk after tea, planting seeds in a window box or even spotting birds from the kitchen window all count.
For children, nature can also spark curiosity and creativity, while helping adults slow down and reset.
Try setting a family goal for the week, such as one outdoor activity a day.
GET CREATIVE TOGETHER
Creative activities are a fantastic outlet for emotions and a way to help ease feelings of stress and anxiety. Importantly, creativity isn’t about being “good” at something, it’s about expression and enjoyment.
Make time for music, drawing, painting, baking, singing or crafting together. Let children lead the way, and allow everyone to take part in their own style. Even ten minutes spent making something can help shift mood and bring families closer.
A shared creative ritual, such as a weekly craft table or music session, can quickly become a comforting part of family life.
PLAN SOMETHING TO LOOK FORWARD TO
Having something to look forward is good for our good mental health. These plans don’t need to be expensive or complicated. It might be a family picnic, a bike ride at the weekend, watching a favourite film together or simply agreeing to sit down with a cup of tea and
enjoy five minutes of calm. For older children, longer term plans, like saving for a trip or planning a future celebration, can be especially motivating.
The key is intentional planning: naming something enjoyable and anticipating it together.
MOVE REGULARLY IN WAYS THAT FEEL GOOD
Moving our bodies more is a powerful mood booster and an effective way to manage stress. For families, this doesn’t need to mean formal exercise or sports clubs (though those can help too).
Walking the dog, having a kitchen dance off, stretching together, doing yoga videos or even tackling the housework as a team all contribute to physical activity and help build a sense of shared achievement.
Encouraging movement as part of everyday life helps children see it as a positive habit rather than a chore.
TALK THINGS OVER - AND REALLY LISTEN
One of the most important actions families can take is to talk openly about feelings and make space for everyone to be heard. Sharing worries can take courage, but it often brings relief and reminds us we’re not alone.
Regular check ins - at dinner, before bed or during a walk - help normalise conversations about mental health. Listening without judgement and taking feelings seriously builds trust and emotional safety.
“When families create safe spaces to talk,” says Alexa Knight, “children learn that their feelings matter and that support is always available.”
Mental Health Awareness Week is a chance not just to act at home, but to join a wider movement for better mental health. Families can explore resources, ideas and activities at www.mentalhealth.org.uk and share how they’re getting involved on social media using #MentalHealthAwarenessWeek and tagging the Mental Health Foundation.
Because when families take action together, those small steps can add up to a healthier, more connected future for everyone.
What’s On
Cambridgeshire
Better Swimming Lessons
WHEN: Ongoing
WHERE: The Hive, Ely
Whether you’re looking for fun and engaging swimming classes for your kids or want to learn the swimming basics yourself, The Hive have got a class for you! They cater for all ages and levels of ability, from baby and parent lessons to women’s only classes and more.
www.better.org.uk/ leisure-centre/ely
Girlguiding
WHEN: Ongoing
WHERE: Locations around Cambridgeshire
Girlguiding offers a safe space in which your child can build confidence through an action-packed programme with something for every girl. Rainbows (4-7), Brownies (7-10), Guides (10-14) or Rangers (14-18). www.girlguiding.org.uk
Junior Swim & Climbing Lessons
WHERE: The Perse Sports Centre, Cambridge Swim England’s Learn to Swim lessons, Stages 1 - 10, help to develop competent swimmers through enjoyment.
NICAS Climbing courses provide a safe, fun introduction to climbing indoors, helping learners develop climbing skills and build confidence. Ages 4-17 years. sportscentre.perse.co.uk
Mike’s Tennis Academy
WHEN: Weekly
WHERE: Cambridge
Weekly tennis course for children aged 5 - 8 years and 8 - 13 years. Trinity Old Field, Cambridge. www.mikestennis.com
The Outdoors Project Weekend Clubs
WHEN: Saturdays
WHERE: Royston
Do you need childcare on Saturdays? Book your child in for outdoor games and nature-based craft. Fun and exercise in the fresh air! Children of Y1 - Y6 welcome. www.theoutdoorsproject.co.uk
The Perse Academy of Performing Arts
WHEN: Saturdays
WHERE: The Perse School, Cambridge PAPA offers outstanding performing arts training for Reception to Year 13, nurturing creativity, confidence and skills through acting, singing, dance and musical theatre, with showcases for all performers to inspire. www.papa.perse.co.uk
Razzamataz Cambridge
WHEN: Saturdays
Scouts
WHEN: Ongoing
WHERE: Locations around Cambridgeshire
As a Scout you can learn survival skills, first aid, computer programming, or even how to fly a plane! It’s a great way to have fun, make friends, get outdoors, express your creativity and experience the wider world. Age 4 to 25 years. www.cambridgeshirescouts. org.uk
WHERE: Impington Village College, Cambridge Razzamataz Cambridge - where creativity, confidence and community thrive! The expert team delivers inspiring dance, singing and acting training, blending commercial and musical-theatre styles. Students gain life skills, resilience, communication, teamwork and make lasting friendships in a fun, supportive environment. www.razzamataz.co.uk
Hannam’s Wake Hub: After School Kids Club
WHEN: Wednesdays, 4.30pm-6.00pm, term time only
WHERE: Stretham
Sessions take place on the fullsize cable at normal running speed with qualified coaches on hand throughout, helping each participant progress at their own pace. Equipment is included in price. Age 10 - 16 years. www.hannamswakehub.com/ events
STAGECOACH PERFORMING ARTS
WHEN: Term time: Wednesdays - Fridays after school & weekends WHERE: Coleridge Campus & Cambourne Village College Stagecoach provides quality part-time training in the performing arts for children aged 4 - 18 years. Their aim is to nurture and develop young potential and confidence through singing, acting and dance classes, as well as being educational. Go along and join the fun! www.stagecoach.co.uk/cambridge
MAY HALF TERM HOLIDAY CAMPS
Cambridge Kids Club Holiday Playscheme
WHEN: May Half Term, 8.00am-6.00pm
WHERE: Cambridge, Cottenham, Great Shelford, Great Cambourne, Histon
Fully supervised care throughout the school holidays where children may participate in arts and crafts, play games, read or simply socialise in a safe and secure environment. Age 4 - 11. www.cambridgekidsclub.com
PERFORM
Hannam’s Wake Hub: School of Wake
WHEN: May half term, Weds & Fri, 11.00am-1.00pm
WHERE: Stretham
Introduce your kids to cable wakeboarding for a discounted price. 2-hour sessions to learn and progress at a slower speed more suitable for younger participants. Sessions run during school holidays. For 8 - 16 year olds. hannamswakehub.com
SUMMER CAMP
WHEN: 3 - 7 Aug
WHERE: Kings College School, Cambridge
Children aged 4 - 10 years can join an adventure to Neverland with Perform this summer. Filled with drama, dance and singing, storytelling and arts and crafts, the children will join Peter Pan, Tinker Bell and friends for 3, 4 or 5 days of confidence-building fun, ending with a joyful performance for family and friends. Visit www.perform.org.uk/peterpan for dates and to book.
Paxton Lakes Sailing Club
WHEN: May half term & Summer
WHERE: Near St Neots
Sailing club for everyone. An RYA recognised Sailing School for those who have never been in a boat before - to racing for the more experienced sailor! Join the Youth Sailing Scheme to go from boat beginner to young sailor in four fun stages.
www.paxtonlakes.org.uk
Mike’s Tennis Academy Holiday Camps
WHEN: 26-29 May
WHERE: Cambridge
This May half term, these popular junior tennis camps teach all shots through games and matches, awarding certificates, prizes, and medals for fun and progress. Age 4 -18 years.
www.mikestennis.com
SUMMER HOLIDAY CAMPS
Hills Road Sports and Tennis Centre: Kids Holiday Camps
WHEN: Summer Holidays, 8.30am-4.00pm
WHERE: Cambridge
An action-packed experience that promises fun, fitness and friendship. Activities include tennis, football, kwik-cricket, basketball, uni-hock, table tennis, badminton, dodgeball and soft archery. Age 5 - 13. www.hillsroadsportscentre. co.uk
THE PERSE: SUMMER SCHOOL
WHEN: 6-31 July
WHERE: Cambridge Summer School is back at The Perse for 2026, offering a wide range of courses and activities. Choose from discovering forensics, creative printmaking, quiz battles, cooking, sports, and more. For ages 7 - 14 years. persesummerschool.co.uk
STAGECOACH SUMMER WORKSHOPS
WHEN: 20 July - 14 Aug, Mon-Fri, 10.00am-4.00pm
WHERE: Coleridge Campus, Cambridge
Students will work towards a musical theatre piece during each day of their themed weekly course. On the final afternoon they’ll perform for their family and friends. Go along and join the fun! Age 7 - 15 years. www.stagecoach.co.uk/cambridge
HOLIDAY WORKSHOPS 2026
ages 7-15 years
Coleridge, Cambridge
Monday 20th - 24th July
Monday 27th - 31st July
Monday 3rd - 7th August
Monday 10th - 14th August
