Teaching your preschooler to read seems to be a hot topic at the moment. I know many parents in the Home Ed community wonder how they are going to do it and worry that their children may fall behind.
If you are a home educator, then you have like been told too many times not to worry because most children learn to read themselves around 7. However, as a parent that wants the whole world of knowledge to open up to her daughter, I've spent the past year slowly teaching Kairi to read.
The two main parts of reading we have worked on are early sounds and blending. The early sounds are single letters sounds such as 'S' 'A' 'T' etc. Kairi can do round 20 single letter sounds now and is slowly learning how to blend and read some CVC (consonant vowel consonant) words. So I thought I'd share with you 7 resources we have used.
Jolly Phonics App
I believe the app may no longer be completely free now, but when we started with this last year it was perfect. Kairi started off by playing with the app for 5 mins every time we were on the train, once she was used to the app, we started with our first sound 'S'. I read the short story that went along with the sound and then played it while Kairi would look at the picture of the 'S' being formed. We would then learn the song and the actions. (Snake is in the grass - Wrrigle arms like a snake).
Twinkl's Hot Air Balloons
Our next step was to get some of the sounds into the house. We really wanted something that Kairi could look at daily and we could use without prep too. We printed of Twinkl's hot air balloons which we use as a reminder but also as games. Once every few days we will say something like 'Kairi, can you find us a 'd'?' and she will go off to point to it.
Jolly Phonics 'Hot Dots' Books and Games
As I already mentioned, we loved the Jolly Phonics app, but we didn't realize that there is a whole world of Jolly Phonics products. At our local toddler group, we came across a board game where you match the pictures up with the beginning sound and in the charity shop, we came across the 'hot dots' books. These books come with a 'pen' that will tell you whether or not you have the correct sound, this is great for children who are happy to learn and explore on their own.
Printable Sound Fans and flash cards
These have been the best resource in our house. The Phonics and Feelings fans I found on Twinkl for the girls. I printed them out, laminated a few and popped them into my bag. The un-laminated once have stayed at home. These are great for on the go as I can pop them out when ever we have 5 minutes and we can go over them (usually about twice a day). We started off with only 5 sounds and now have around 20 on there, it only took me about 15 minutes to cut and put together with a treasury tag but has been our most valued resource. Don't forget to grab your FREE Sound Fan and Flash Cards. (Different to the Twinkl ones.)
Read Write Inc Phonics Kit
I was sent this by the wonderful Cherry at The Newby Tribe, I love how it is full of things to do. From flash cards and reading books to a parents guide and a wipe clean pen. This kit covers all areas of reading and form letters.
Teach your Monster to Read
This seems to be very popular in the home ed community. With the website being free and the app only being £5 we figured that we would give it a go, Kairi immediately loved it (and I secretly had lots of fun too). In the game you are helping the monster to read so you can fix his ship, to make the game more appealing you choose your own prize so you are winning something you want and have the incentive to continue.
Letter Land
I remember Letter Land from when I was a child. Lucy Lamp Lady, Munching Mike and the gang, these were the best lessons (well, that and Magic Pencil!) but I was surprised to see it on my girl's Kindles and it was around 20 years ago that I watched it. Kairi loves it, I can often find her exploring Letter Land with Munching Mike and repeating what he says.
Click the picture below to grab your FREE Sound Fan and Flash Cards.
Recently we've been looking at how we lay out our front room, especially how we could make the most out of our home education area. At the moment the area is quite small because the opposite wall is full of Ikea Kallax hiding all the recourse we have accumulated.
Our new home education needs to be large enough for the girls to use and not feel cramped, but small enough that it doesn't over power the room. I've had a long thought and broke it up into a few categories.
Furniture
We need a small table and a couple of chairs for sitting down and working. We don't do a lot of table work at the moment, but the girls love to sit down and 'write' or draw pictures. Some well made oak furniture like a set of nesting tables would work really well in both the home education and front room aspect.
Another option is the Ikea kids table which is cheap but may not last as long as something sturdier.
Storage
As I mentioned, we are covered with storage, the Ikea Kallax is perfect. It looks classy and hides away all of our mess. The girls can just dump their bits into a box and it looks like it has all been put away nicely.
I'd also like to get these nice storage baskets from Tesco so the girls can have constant access to their pens and pads.
Decorations
We have spent a lot of time looking at what decorations we could put up. We wanted something homely, but educational too. In the end, we've decided just to use the printables from Twinkl. Number rockets, letter hot air balloons, colors and a visual time table.
We have a few wooden educational toys like a clock and drawing board that we will leave out because they will both look nice and be helpful for the girls.
I'm loving our transformation so far and can't wait to do more in the future. Whats your home education area like? I would love to know? If you are looking for more Home Education ideas, then head on over.
*This is a collaborative post*
Recently we've been looking at how we lay out our front room, especially how we could make the most out of our home education area. At the moment the area is quite small because the opposite wall is full of Ikea Kallax hiding all the recourse we have accumulated.
Our new home education needs to be large enough for the girls to use and not feel cramped, but small enough that it doesn't over power the room. I've had a long thought and broke it up into a few categories.
Furniture
We need a small table and a couple of chairs for sitting down and working. We don't do a lot of table work at the moment, but the girls love to sit down and 'write' or draw pictures. Some well made oak furniture like a set of nesting tables would work really well in both the home education and front room aspect.
Another option is the Ikea kids table which is cheap but may not last as long as something sturdier.
Storage
As I mentioned, we are covered with storage, the Ikea Kallax is perfect. It looks classy and hides away all of our mess. The girls can just dump their bits into a box and it looks like it has all been put away nicely.
I'd also like to get these nice storage baskets from Tesco so the girls can have constant access to their pens and pads.
Decorations
We have spent a lot of time looking at what decorations we could put up. We wanted something homely, but educational too. In the end, we've decided just to use the printables from Twinkl. Number rockets, letter hot air balloons, colors and a visual time table.
We have a few wooden educational toys like a clock and drawing board that we will leave out because they will both look nice and be helpful for the girls.
I'm loving our transformation so far and can't wait to do more in the future. Whats your home education area like? I would love to know? If you are looking for more Home Education ideas, then head on over.
*This is a collaborative post*
*This is a collaborative post*
This week has been so amazing, I've felt on top of the world. Life has its issues but we always seem to make it though, don't we! I'm on a bit of a high this week after being hired as Aby's VA, but I know next week is going to be just as exciting with so many amazing fun things to do coming up.
Anyway, I will quit the chatter, here are this weeks 9 Because life is worth celebrating (It really is!) Take care and don't forget to leave me yours below, I really do love reading your comments and finding out what you are celebrating too.
1. Pleasurewood Hills!
This week was the week we took our Youth Group to the theme park! It's a week we have been waiting for, for what seems like forever. Rides, friends, and fun. A day to remember.
2. Virtual Assistant
This week has been my second week of being Aby's virtual assistant and I have loved it. I'm really enjoying being able to help someone so awesome and learn at the same time.
3. Interview!
Eek! Don't tell anyone as it's a secret but I got an interview for a Youth Group close to our home! I'm so excited to be able to have the chance to get out in the community here and make a difference.
4. Google Photos
Since Ryan talked me into using google photos, I've loved having the freedom to be able to go back and look at old photos. I found the awesome crazy photo of me, my mum and my sister at Walt Disney World all with red hair. Mine was so bright! I love being able to look back at memories and smile.
5. Creating the Home Ed folder
I really enjoyed creating Kairi's Home Ed folder. It's full to the brim of amazing activities and worksheets. I love the idea that she can choose something she loves to do.
6. 'Not back to school' Kit
As Kairi isn't starting school, but continuing her home education, I didn't want her to feel left out because everyone else will be getting new shoes, new bags etc. So we took her out shopping and created her very own 'back to home ed'/'not back to school' kit. I can't wait to give it all to her as her official starting present!
7. Home Educating Kairi
I've written a post this week about the home ed wobbles and how nervous I am feeling, but it doesn't stop me from celebrating the fact that I get to home educate our daughter. I'm so proud of what we can give her.
8. Outdoor Cinema
As you probably know, I LOVE free community events! Cambridge Bid hosted this free outdoor cinema in the market place this week and we went along to watch Toy Story 2 with the girls. It was absolutely FREEZING! but we had an amazing time and I'm so glad we made the effort. We even ended up on the big screen camera.
9. Hot Chocolate Before Bed
Autumn is finally coming and if you didn't know it is my absolute favorite season. Everything becomes spiced or amazingly flavored, everywhere starts looking really pretty with twinkly lights and we get to wear snuggly jumpers and boots! As we are getting close, I have started to notice the hot chocolate in the cupboard again, so this week we decided to have a small cup before bed.
What did you get up to this week? Any adventures?
This week has been so amazing, I've felt on top of the world. Life has its issues but we always seem to make it though, don't we! I'm on a bit of a high this week after being hired as Aby's VA, but I know next week is going to be just as exciting with so many amazing fun things to do coming up.
Anyway, I will quit the chatter, here are this weeks 9 Because life is worth celebrating (It really is!) Take care and don't forget to leave me yours below, I really do love reading your comments and finding out what you are celebrating too.
Anyway, I will quit the chatter, here are this weeks 9 Because life is worth celebrating (It really is!) Take care and don't forget to leave me yours below, I really do love reading your comments and finding out what you are celebrating too.
1. Pleasurewood Hills!
This week was the week we took our Youth Group to the theme park! It's a week we have been waiting for, for what seems like forever. Rides, friends, and fun. A day to remember.
2. Virtual Assistant
This week has been my second week of being Aby's virtual assistant and I have loved it. I'm really enjoying being able to help someone so awesome and learn at the same time.
3. Interview!
Eek! Don't tell anyone as it's a secret but I got an interview for a Youth Group close to our home! I'm so excited to be able to have the chance to get out in the community here and make a difference.
4. Google Photos
Since Ryan talked me into using google photos, I've loved having the freedom to be able to go back and look at old photos. I found the awesome crazy photo of me, my mum and my sister at Walt Disney World all with red hair. Mine was so bright! I love being able to look back at memories and smile.
5. Creating the Home Ed folder
I really enjoyed creating Kairi's Home Ed folder. It's full to the brim of amazing activities and worksheets. I love the idea that she can choose something she loves to do.
6. 'Not back to school' Kit
As Kairi isn't starting school, but continuing her home education, I didn't want her to feel left out because everyone else will be getting new shoes, new bags etc. So we took her out shopping and created her very own 'back to home ed'/'not back to school' kit. I can't wait to give it all to her as her official starting present!
7. Home Educating Kairi
I've written a post this week about the home ed wobbles and how nervous I am feeling, but it doesn't stop me from celebrating the fact that I get to home educate our daughter. I'm so proud of what we can give her.
8. Outdoor Cinema
As you probably know, I LOVE free community events! Cambridge Bid hosted this free outdoor cinema in the market place this week and we went along to watch Toy Story 2 with the girls. It was absolutely FREEZING! but we had an amazing time and I'm so glad we made the effort. We even ended up on the big screen camera.
9. Hot Chocolate Before Bed
Autumn is finally coming and if you didn't know it is my absolute favorite season. Everything becomes spiced or amazingly flavored, everywhere starts looking really pretty with twinkly lights and we get to wear snuggly jumpers and boots! As we are getting close, I have started to notice the hot chocolate in the cupboard again, so this week we decided to have a small cup before bed.
What did you get up to this week? Any adventures?
Packing your suitcases for a family holiday is hard enough, and that’s without considering the hand luggage that goes with it. There are a few essentials you shouldn’t skip when filling your carry-ons – here are just some ideas for your hand luggage that will help your journey go a lot more smoothly.
Entertainment
Perhaps the most important thing to pack with you is something to keep everyone occupied. For the little ones, consider tablets loaded with films and programmes to quite literally make the time fly by. Be cautious, though – some airlines do currently have restrictions on what kind of electronic devices you can bring on board.
For yourself, consider a book – this way, your eyes won’t be strained from looking at a screen for the entire journey. Colouring books are a great idea, as they’ve also been found to be beneficial to your mental and emotional health. If you’ve got some built-up holiday stress, it could be the best way to relieve it.
Snacks
The kids will probably end up feeling peckish on the flight, especially if catering isn’t available. Bring along some snacks to tame rumbling tummies at least until you land. Things such as cereal bars and biscuits are also great if there’s a spot of motion sickness to get rid of, as they’re relatively plain.
Medicine
You’re going to want to combat motion sickness as soon as it kicks in on the flight. You can usually grab some medicine in the airport before boarding, but make sure you pick some up beforehand just in case – CTI recommends it for all ages. Consider paracetamol, too, as it has many purposes and can usually be taken by a person of any age.
For an upset stomach, make sure you’ve got some Calpol or equivalent in tow to settle it. And don’t forget the typical supplies such as plasters – you never know what may happen, and they always come in handy when the time comes.
Books
As previously mentioned, books are a great way to pass the time on a long flight if you don’t want to stare at a screen the entire time. Try and get the kids to pick one up, too – a great idea is providing them with a book about your destination, to educate them as well as get them excited for what’s to come.
Important paperwork
It’ll be the most essential thing you have in your hand luggage – the paperwork! Don’t forget the passports, the boarding passes (especially if checking in online instead of at the airport desk) and any other passes or confirmations that you’ll need either before boarding or when you reach the other side.
When passing through checkpoints such as security and passport control, delegate looking after the passports and documents to one person. That way, you’ll always know who to go to when you need them, and you’ll reduce the risk of someone losing something important in the rush of the airport.
Things to keep the little ones safe
Another idea for the kids’ hand luggage is items that will potentially keep them safe in case of them getting lost or separated. Consider things such as a photo of your family, so someone helping your child knows who to lookout for. Also include your number, hotel and other essential details that will aid in you being reunited, perhaps on an Infoband would be helpful.
Too often do children get separated from their family in the bustle of busy areas such as the airport, but these precautions will likely ensure their safe return. So long as you’re vigilant and clear that they must stay by your side, things will likely go without a hitch.
*This is a collaborative guest post - opinions are not my own*
Packing your suitcases for a family holiday is hard enough, and that’s without considering the hand luggage that goes with it. There are a few essentials you shouldn’t skip when filling your carry-ons – here are just some ideas for your hand luggage that will help your journey go a lot more smoothly.
Entertainment
Perhaps the most important thing to pack with you is something to keep everyone occupied. For the little ones, consider tablets loaded with films and programmes to quite literally make the time fly by. Be cautious, though – some airlines do currently have restrictions on what kind of electronic devices you can bring on board.
For yourself, consider a book – this way, your eyes won’t be strained from looking at a screen for the entire journey. Colouring books are a great idea, as they’ve also been found to be beneficial to your mental and emotional health. If you’ve got some built-up holiday stress, it could be the best way to relieve it.
Snacks
The kids will probably end up feeling peckish on the flight, especially if catering isn’t available. Bring along some snacks to tame rumbling tummies at least until you land. Things such as cereal bars and biscuits are also great if there’s a spot of motion sickness to get rid of, as they’re relatively plain.
Medicine
You’re going to want to combat motion sickness as soon as it kicks in on the flight. You can usually grab some medicine in the airport before boarding, but make sure you pick some up beforehand just in case – CTI recommends it for all ages. Consider paracetamol, too, as it has many purposes and can usually be taken by a person of any age.
For an upset stomach, make sure you’ve got some Calpol or equivalent in tow to settle it. And don’t forget the typical supplies such as plasters – you never know what may happen, and they always come in handy when the time comes.
Books
As previously mentioned, books are a great way to pass the time on a long flight if you don’t want to stare at a screen the entire time. Try and get the kids to pick one up, too – a great idea is providing them with a book about your destination, to educate them as well as get them excited for what’s to come.
Important paperwork
It’ll be the most essential thing you have in your hand luggage – the paperwork! Don’t forget the passports, the boarding passes (especially if checking in online instead of at the airport desk) and any other passes or confirmations that you’ll need either before boarding or when you reach the other side.
When passing through checkpoints such as security and passport control, delegate looking after the passports and documents to one person. That way, you’ll always know who to go to when you need them, and you’ll reduce the risk of someone losing something important in the rush of the airport.
Things to keep the little ones safe
Another idea for the kids’ hand luggage is items that will potentially keep them safe in case of them getting lost or separated. Consider things such as a photo of your family, so someone helping your child knows who to lookout for. Also include your number, hotel and other essential details that will aid in you being reunited, perhaps on an Infoband would be helpful.
Too often do children get separated from their family in the bustle of busy areas such as the airport, but these precautions will likely ensure their safe return. So long as you’re vigilant and clear that they must stay by your side, things will likely go without a hitch.
I’ve put off writing this post 100 times. The thought of being judged by family and friends, the thought of having to have that conversation where they go against our decision and give us a million reason why we shouldn’t home ed and try to explain how weird our children are going to be.
The problem is, I need to be honest, not just with myself, but with my husband and YOU reading this. You are my friends and friendship is built on honesty and not the thought that I do 15 amazing beautiful learning activities a day!
So here is my honesty. I am SCARED, I am NERVOUS and I am WORRIED. In September, 2 weeks time, everyone I know will send their children off to school and nursery and I will have 2 children to teach and continue to help grow.
On one hand, I know that the girls have a passion for learning, a passion for knowledge and a passion for life. I’ve taught Kairi for 4.5 years now and she is a bright and clever little girl with a thirst to know more. She finds a way to learn in everything we do, just this morning at the station she sparked up a conversation about the sloped platform path and we talked all about the systems our country has in place to move the rain and I’m sure this will lead to further learning about where the rain goes.
But on the other hand, I’ve only ever been in schools. I’ve worked in schools, volunteered in schools and learned in schools, I know no other system and neither does my husband, family or friends. We are surrounded by a world that puts all their faith into a system that failed both me and my husband. That would have stopped up from reaching our dreams if it wasn’t for our passion and thirst to learn out in the world. This system though, it teaches children to learn to read early and although Kairi is doing amazing and ahead of her peers now (all because of her passion to learn), I worry, 'What will happen if she isn’t ahead of her peers in 6 months time?'
I know she WILL learn to read, it's not that I think it won’t happen, but I’m anxious about the way my husband will feel if he thinks that she is ‘behind’ or ‘not learning enough’, will we be at a crossroad and stuck on the school decision yet again?
Then, I think about how we just need to stick to it, she will thrive. We know our daughter and we know that she can and will learn better in an environment that she is more comfortable in, in an environment where she will get almost 1 to 1 attention and where she can be challenged and will challenge us every single day. Where she can be free to learn what she wants and where she really can follow her dreams.
So I guess my main worry, the only one that really matters, is the worry of failing her, of failing them both. But I just have to keep remembering that it is that exact worry that will stop it from happening. It is because of my concern of failing her that I will do EVERYTHING in my power to help her achieve her dreams.
So from this anxious but excited mum, if you are ‘offically’ home educating this school year, whether a 4-year-old or 14, then I am with you, I am here for you and I understand how you feel. I would love for you to join our journey and share your own, I have setup an online community where we can share, learn and just let those feelings out. Let's support each other, let's beat these feelings!
You are not alone: Join the Home Education Support for New Starters Group Here!
You are not alone: Join the Home Education Support for New Starters Group Here!
It’s almost 3 months until we zoom off to Disneyland Paris and I can’t wait. I often get asked what can under 5’s do at Disneyland Paris and usually I will just direct people to this post I wrote What can my child ride at Disneyland Paris?. However today I thought I’d talk a little bit more about exactly what they can do overall and why the girls love it so much.
Disneyland Paris is a family adventure, there are places to run, climb and laugh. I lose count of the amount of happy tears I shed both during our visit and after. There is just something so magical about seeing the lights on the castle and hearing that amazing music, but NOTHING will top the first time that your child meets their hero. A character that they truly love and believe in, that smile, that emotion, it's a memory to live for.
For Kairi, this was in 2015 when she was 23 months and Naminé was around 6 weeks! We had been at Disney for around 2 days but hadn’t really stopped to do any character meets unless we just bumped into them. But on this particular afternoon, we had entered the Walt Disney Studios park and had seen a ring full of characters (Stars in their cars it was called).
So we walked over and waited at the fence and the characters started to go round, Kairi could see Minnie and her excitement was amazing! Woody came by and greeted us, my niece (who was 2 at the time) loved it, then Emille from ratatouille came, finally it was almost our turn to see Minnie, but as another 2 families had pushed in between us, we had to wait a bit longer. All of a sudden the music started to play, it was a cue for the characters to finish talking to the family they were with and leave.
We were so upset, we pleaded Minnie to just wave and she came straight over and gave Kairi a hug and a kiss (I’m in tears now writing this!). Kairi’s face was amazing, a memory that I will never forget and clearly still makes me emotional every time I think about it. I have never said thank you to a charter so much in my life, that moment was amazing.
All the other character meets during the holiday were so much fun too, we met so many characters and Merida even sat on the floor and held Naminé which made for an amazing photo.
The park is full of places to go to, there are walks in the trees and caves, adventure play grounds themed for pirates and Pocahontas, so many shows to see. I wasn’t sure Kairi would sit still for the shows, but I didn’t need to be worried, there was so much going on that she just sat there amazed.
Then we visited the Mickey Mouse Club House show, it was just like being with Mickey and all his friends. We danced, sung, they shot out ‘leaves’, ‘party confetti’ and even ‘snow’ from the ceiling. The kids were amazed and honestly, the adults were too. Waiting for the show hadn’t been an issue either, Disney had this covered. The ‘queue’ was actually the 'pre-show', where children were encouraged to get up, dance and have fun. We sang and danced along with Jake from Jake and the neverland pirates, Sophia from Sophia the first and an entertainer with an amazing amount of energy, the kids had such a blast I wasn’t sure the show was going to be able to beat that.
But you are not reading this post for all that are you? You know you can do shows and walks and you’re probably not fussed about paying to go use another play area. You are here to find out about the rides, the amazing and magical rides that Disney are known for. So I will tell you, I honestly didn’t think that we would be able to do much, I actually regretted booking the holiday knowing that Naminé would be a maximum of 6 weeks old, but I was amazed and astonished once I got there. I couldn't believe just HOW MUCH we could do!
First off there were so many rides that Naminé (6 weeks) could get on with us. I’d say under a year she could do roughly 50% of the rides in the park. For Kairi, who was over a year but under 3.5 (where she reached the next height), she could do around 75% of the rides and 80% once she reached the next height. We rode rides all day long and we still didn’t manage to do them all (this was March when queues are VERY small too).
Then there is the child swap, which allows one adult to go on a ride while another waits behind and watches the little one who isn’t old/tall enough. Once the first person is off, they give the second a ‘pass’ to skip the queue and ride straight away so you don’t wait longer than you would have if you could have gone on as a family. Disney really has you covered!
If you want to know what your child can actually ride at Disneyland Paris, I have created a printable which you can grab below (or just save on your phone to read later). If you are looking for more information on Disneyland Paris then you can find out about Meal Plans, Disabilities, What to Pack and more over on the Disney section of the blog.
It’s almost 3 months until we zoom off to Disneyland Paris and I can’t wait. I often get asked what can under 5’s do at Disneyland Paris and usually I will just direct people to this post I wrote What can my child ride at Disneyland Paris?. However today I thought I’d talk a little bit more about exactly what they can do overall and why the girls love it so much.
Disneyland Paris is a family adventure, there are places to run, climb and laugh. I lose count of the amount of happy tears I shed both during our visit and after. There is just something so magical about seeing the lights on the castle and hearing that amazing music, but NOTHING will top the first time that your child meets their hero. A character that they truly love and believe in, that smile, that emotion, it's a memory to live for.
For Kairi, this was in 2015 when she was 23 months and Naminé was around 6 weeks! We had been at Disney for around 2 days but hadn’t really stopped to do any character meets unless we just bumped into them. But on this particular afternoon, we had entered the Walt Disney Studios park and had seen a ring full of characters (Stars in their cars it was called).
So we walked over and waited at the fence and the characters started to go round, Kairi could see Minnie and her excitement was amazing! Woody came by and greeted us, my niece (who was 2 at the time) loved it, then Emille from rattatoulie came, finally it was almost our turn to see Minnie, but as another 2 families had pushed in between us, we had to wait a bit longer. All of a sudden the music started to play, it was a cue for the characters to finish talking to the family they were with and leave.
We were so upset, we pleaded Minnie to just wave and she came straight over and gave Kairi a hug and a kiss (I’m in tears now writing this!). Kairi’s face was amazing, a memory that I will never forget and clearly still makes me emotional every time I think about it. I have never said thank you to a charter so much in my life, that moment was amazing.
All the other character meets during the holiday were so much fun too, we met so many characters and Merida even sat on the floor and held Naminé which made for an amazing photo.
The park is full of places to go to, there are walks in the trees and caves, adventure play grounds themed for pirates and Pocahontas, so many shows to see. I wasn’t sure Kairi would sit still for the shows, but I didn’t need to be worried, there was so much going on that she just sat there amazed.
Then we visited the Mickey Mouse Club House show, it was just like being with Mickey and all his friends. We danced, sung, they shot out ‘leaves’, ‘party confetti’ and even ‘snow’ from the ceiling. The kids were amazed and honestly, the adults were too. Waiting for the show hadn’t been an issue either, Disney had this covered. The ‘queue’ was actually the 'pre-show', where children were encouraged to get up, dance and have fun. We sang and danced along with Jake from Jake and the neverland pirates, Sophia from Sophia the first and an entertainer with an amazing amount of energy, the kids had such a blast I wasn’t sure the show was going to be able to beat that.
But you are not reading this post for all that are you? You know you can do shows and walks and you’re probably not fussed about paying to go use another play area. You are here to find out about the rides, the amazing and magical rides that Disney are known for. So I will tell you, I honestly didn’t think that we would be able to do much, I actually regretted booking the holiday knowing that Naminé would be a maximum of 6 weeks old, but I was amazed and astonished once I got there. I couldn't believe just HOW MUCH we could do!
First off there were so many rides that Naminé (6 weeks) could get on with us. I’d say under a year she could do roughly 50% of the rides in the park. For Kairi, who was over a year but under 3.5 (where she reached the next height), she could do around 75% of the rides and 80% once she reached the next height. We rode rides all day long and we still didn’t manage to do them all (this was March when queues are VERY small too).
Then there is the child swap, which allows one adult to go on a ride while another waits behind and watches the little one who isn’t old/tall enough. Once the first person is off, they give the second a ‘pass’ to skip the queue and ride straight away so you don’t wait longer than you would have if you could have gone on as a family. Disney really has you covered!
If you want to know what your child can actually ride at Disneyland Paris, I have created a printable which you can grab below (or just save on your phone to read later). If you are looking for more information on Disneyland Paris then you can find out about Meal Plans, Disabilities, What to Pack and more over on the Disney section of the blog.
This week has been amazing! It feels like it has been so long since I have been able to say that, but I really hope the tables are finally turning for us. I'm so glad I started my celebratory list last month (a month already!) looking back on the moments I have been celebrating is amazing.
So below is my 'Becuase Life Is Worth Celebrating' Week 4!
1. Spontaneous trips to the park
This week we have ended up at the park so many times, none of them however planned. My favorite was when we turned up to a group and it wasn't open it (I had planned for this to happen), so I just casually said 'Oh well, perhaps we will have to spend some time at the park then'. Their faces were a picture!
2. Trail at Ely Cathedral
We are so lucky that Ely Cathedral has a *mostly* free drop-in every school holiday. You can drop into the Cathedral between the set times and create, build and play. Each week is a different theme and there is a trail to do too. The girls love taking the train around the Cathedral, learning new things and finding the treasures! It's so nice to see them working together as a team.
3. Being hired as Aby's VA
I have followed Aby and have been a great fan of her work for a while now. She's an amazing lady and the passion she has to help others is something we have in common and hers really shows through. I was so honored, excited, amazing *insert so many happy emotions here* when she asked me to be her VA this week! It's only been 2 days, but I'm already loving it.
4. Making Pastry with my girls
When I was little, me and my sister would always make pasty with our nanny up the kitchen table. She would make the pasty and we would cut out shapes and make jam tarts while she made sweet and savoury pies. As I got older, I would ring my other nanny for advice on how to make the pastry (the answer was ALWAYS that I was 'playing' with it too much!). So it was amazing to be able to make jam tarts and biscuits with the girls, the didn't look amazing, but we all had such a great time.
5. Cambridge Science Centre Cosmos Summer Roadshow
This week the CSC has a Cosmos Summer Roadshow in Ely. We've been down there 3 days in a row and had some much fun learning about science. I won't spoil it too much as I did write that whole other post, but it was awesome!
6. My new glasses
I love how they look and I'm so chuffed that they came quick. It's great to be able to learn more about my eyes and why a square doesn't look square!
7. Dressing up at Toddler Group
I love moments like this. Me and Kairi just dressing up without a care in the world. Little Explorers is a group I really feel so comfortable in and love to just be myself and play with the girls.
8. Improvising like a pro!
This week I took my Youth Group to the fire station for a visit (those that were with us last summer, loved it!) However once we turned up, the fire people were out on a call putting a fire out so the station was locked up! Luckily me and another lady improvised like a pro and the kids still had the best time.
9. Playing in the garden with my family
This last one is just a moment to live for. Ryan and the girls came in to get me, I stopped working and went out into the garden with them, they had chalked red on patio tiles and were playing their own version of floor is lava where you had to race across the garden without stepping in the lava. It was so much fun playing together.
What did you get up to this week? Any adventures?
This week has been amazing! It feels like it has been so long since I have been able to say that, but I really hope the tables are finally turning for us. I'm so glad I started my celebratory list last month (a month already!) looking back on the moments I have been celebrating is amazing.
So below is my 'Becuase Life Is Worth Celebrating' Week 4!
So below is my 'Becuase Life Is Worth Celebrating' Week 4!
1. Spontaneous trips to the park
This week we have ended up at the park so many times, none of them however planned. My favourite was when we turned up to a group and it wasn't open it (I had planned for this to happen), so I just casually said 'Oh well, perhaps we will have to spend some time at the park then'. Their faces were a picture!
2. Trail at Ely Cathedral
We are so lucky that Ely Cathedral has a *mostly* free drop-in every school holiday. You can drop into the Cathedral between the set times and create, build and play. Each week is a different theme and there is a trail to do too. The girls love taking the train around the Cathedral, learning new things and finding the treasures! It's so nice to see them working together as a team.
3. Being hired as Aby's VA
I have followed Aby and have been a great fan of her work for a while now. She's an amazing lady and the passion she has to help others is something we have in common and hers really shows through. I was so honoured, excited, amazing *insert so many happy emotions here* when she asked me to be her VA this week! It's only been 2 days, but I'm already loving it.
4. Making Pastry with my girls
When I was little, me and my sister would always make pasty with our nanny up the kitchen table. She would make the pasty and we would cut out shapes and make jam tarts while she made sweet and savoury pies. As I got older, I would ring my other nanny for advice on how to make the pastry (the answer was ALWAYS that I was 'playing' with it too much!). So it was amazing to be able to make jam tarts and biscuits with the girls, the didn't look amazing, but we all had such a great time.
5. Cambridge Science Centre Cosmos Summer Roadshow
This week the CSC has a Cosmos Summer Roadshow in Ely. We've been down there 3 days in a row and had some much fun learning about science. I won't spoil it too much as I did write that whole other post, but it was awesome!
6. My new glasses
I love how they look and I'm so chuffed that they came quick. It's great to be able to learn more about my eyes and why a square doesn't look square!
7. Dressing up at Toddler Group
I love moments like this. Me and Kairi just dressing up without a care in the world. Little Explorers is a group I really feel so comfortable in and love to just be myself and play with the girls.
8. Improvising like a pro!
This week I took my Youth Group to the fire station for a visit (those that were with us last summer, loved it!) However once we turned up, the fire people were out putting a fire out so the station was locked up! Luckily me and another lady improvised like a pro and the kids still had the bed time.
9. Playing in the garden with my family
This last one is just a moment to live for. Ryan and the girls came in to get me, I stopped working and went out into the garden with them, they had chalked red on patio tiles and were playing their own version of floor is lava where you had to race across the garden without stepping in the lava. It was so much fun playing together.
What did you get up to this week? Any adventures?
After hearing through Spotted in Ely that Cambridge Science Centre is holding another FREE Cosmos pop-up roadshow event here in Ely, I knew I had to take the girls. We stumbled on the last pop-up by accident as we visited the drop-in at the Cathedral and I just remember it being totally amazing. Hands on science, so much fun, kids having a great time and not boring for parents either!
The roadshow is at The Maltings in Ely until Sunday 20th August and is aimed at children 7+, however it is suitable for all ages and Kairi (4) and Naminé (2) had so much fun! All visitors (including Nannies, Uncles and Friends!) are encouraged to push, pull and play, really have fun while learning Science. The event is running Monday to Sunday with workshops happening around 3 times daily. There is also a late evening on Thursday 17th August with extra workshops too.
It's only Tuesday as I'm writing this and we have already been over there 3 times, the girls love it! On the ground floor of the Maltings is the main part of the roadshow, exhibits on light, gravity, force and cameras are there with plenty to touch and see. The staff are really friendly and are walking around offering help and more information to build on your knowledge. You can take as little or as much from each station as you like.
We have taken part in both workshops and were very impressed. The lady running them was great with all the children and easily adapted the way she spoke and the speed of the activity for my young girls so they could get the most out of it too.
On Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Sunday, you have the opportunity to take part in the 'to the core' workshop where you will create a globe our of plasticine - but with a twist! You will be able to see and learn about the inside of the Earth too.
On Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday, the workshop is rainbow spinners where you will learn about Issac Newton and light! The kids especially loved this one.
Upstairs there is also a wind tunnel to create your own flying spinners, a bridge building activity and magnet building. There is plenty to keep the whole family entertained.
If you can't make it over to The Maltings this week, why not head over to see the Lifeworks! Roadshow at Cambridge Central Library. This pop-up is on 7 days a week until September with plenty of workshops too, so head out and learn about the human body, I know we will be!
The last thing to mention is Cosmos Online, a great resource for families to do free fun science activities at home!
After hearing through Spotted in Ely that Cambridge Science Centre is holding another FREE Cosmos pop-up roadshow event here in Ely, I knew I had to take the girls. We stumbled on the last pop-up by accident as we visited the drop-in at the Cathedral and I just remember it being totally amazing. Hands on science, so much fun, kids having a great time and not boring for parents either!
The roadshow is at The Maltings in Ely until Sunday 20th August and is aimed at children 7+, however it is suitable for all ages and Kairi (4) and Naminé (2) had so much fun! All visitors (including Nannies, Uncles and Friends!) are encouraged to push, pull and play, really have fun while learning Science. The event is running Monday to Sunday with workshops happening around 3 times daily. There is also a late evening on Thursday 17th August with extra workshops too.
It's only Tuesday as I'm writing this and we have already been over there 3 times, the girls love it! On the ground floor of the Maltings is the main part of the roadshow, exhibits on light, gravity, force and cameras are there with plenty to touch and see. The staff are really friendly and are walking around offering help and more information to build on your knowledge. You can take as little or as much from each station as you like.
We have taken part in both workshops and were very impressed. The lady running them was great with all the children and easily adapted the way she spoke and the speed of the activity for my young girls so they could get the most out of it too.
On Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Sunday, you have the opportunity to take part in the 'to the core' workshop where you will create a globe our of plasticine - but with a twist! You will be able to see and learn about the inside of the Earth too.
On Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday, the workshop is rainbow spinners where you will learn about Issac Newton and light! The kids especially loved this one.
Upstairs there is also a wind tunnel to create your own flying spinners, a bridge building activity and magnet building. There is plenty to keep the whole family entertained.
If you can't make it over to The Maltings this week, why not head over to see the Lifeworks! Roadshow at Cambridge Central Library. This pop-up is on 7 days a week until September with plenty of workshops too, so head out and learn about the human body, I know we will be!
The last thing to mention is Cosmos Online, a great resource for families to do free fun science activities at home!