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63 Articles

From the editor

I'm so happy that you're holding the latest edition of The Green Parent in your hands. Brought to you by the tree of love, the apple, this is our sacred issue. Think how to make space for wonder in everyday life, practice peace with your teens and how a circle can change your life. Plus, being a real-life fairy, reconnecting kids to nature and your guide to digital wellbeing. This subject has got me thinking about how I can make more time for the sacred in amidst family life and I've come up with a list of ways that I can practice. Here are my top three. To start with I've created a little corner in the bedroom, dedicated to my yoga practice. Keeping this space clear of clutter and…

From the editor

what I'm doing right now

FEELING INSPIRED We've packed the website with wonderful self-care secrets this month – go and get a boost now at thegreenparent.co.uk! READING ABOUT Foraging as a gateway to being present in an article by Robin Harwood of eatweeds.substack.com DRINKING High mountain oolong tea and having mini tea ceremonies as a way to cultivate peace in the middle of busy family days PLANNING A break to Buddhafield Festival (buddhafield.com) later this month – the theme this year is With Arms Wide Open. I can't wait!…

what I'm doing right now

TESSA SANDERSON Women's Health & Yoga Specialist, Menstrual Educator, and Author, Tessa lives in Berks with her family. “Late summer is usually bittersweet: there's a fullness from long days spent outside and having had adventures with my family, but also the anticipation of a return to school that means another year has passed. I make an effort to be really present rather than be swept ahead into too much organising. Even if it means that there's a hasty trip to the shoe shop for bigger sizes in September!” Tessa writes about how women's circles have changed her life on page 44. TIANA KUBIK A city girl through and through, Tiana wasn't always thrilled with outdoor adventures. However, learning the importance of nature and play through her journey to a Master's…

7 reasons to become a member at thegreenparent.co.uk

We've got a sparkly new website! Becoming a member will unlock loads of super cool parenting perks! Here are 7 reasons you don't want to miss out: 1 Expert Guidance: Gain access to a treasure trove of advice and guidance from parenting experts. Whether you're dealing with sleepless nights, picky eating, or home education worries, our expert resources are tailored to support you through every stage of your parenting journey. 2 Community Support: This is a safe space to share stories, ask questions, and get support. There's no judgment. You'll find comfort in knowing that you're not alone in this wild and wonderful adventure. We're here to cheer you on every step of the way. 3 Beautiful Magazines: Delivered to your inbox every 2 months. Designed and curated to inspire…

7 reasons to become a member at thegreenparent.co.uk

inspire AUGUST is traditionally a harvest month, it's a time to break bread and relax with family The biggest cultural festival From music to literature alongside a full programme of competitions, there's something for everyone at the National Eisteddfod from 3-10 August – the largest cultural festival in Europe. Ynysangharad Park in the centre of Pontypridd plays host this year creating an urban, alternative festival. eisteddfod.wales EDINBURGH FESTIVAL FOR KIDS Every August, Scotland's capital city is buzzing with festival happenings – there are so many to choose from it's understandable to get decision fatigue. We've picked our top four from this year's programme. eif.co.uk Univers (from Spain) A sensory experience for early childhood where performers and beautiful objects move around and slowly draw the children into the space. Kish Kush…

Reclaiming the Wild

inspire INTERVIEW ROSHNI GOYATE “I grew up in Brent, which, historically, was the most ethnically diverse borough in London. Growing up, our leisure time was spent going to visit friends and family; not exploring nature. We played in urban areas like the school field or went on a couple of trips to Ruislip Lido, which felt very sanitised. Once we took a trip to the country park, which felt like a big adventure, but I remember feeling a bit scared. Even in my 20s, visiting Cornwall, I was out on a walk with a friend, but there was no-one else around, and I was like, 'Is this allowed?' Which seems so silly now. “There's so much going on that is very much rooted in the legacies of what colonialism left behind. And…

Reclaiming the Wild

READERS' STORIES

“I went from homeschooling to becoming a real-life fairy!” Emma Maxwell lives in Northamptonshire with her husband, Toby and daughter, Amelie “I've always worked with children. I've been a nursery practitioner and deputy manager, a one-to-one support worker and worked in a forest-school type nursery. I've always been part of the school system, and when I had my daughter 11 years ago, assumed she would go to school. However, she went to reception and a little of year one, but it never felt right. She wanted to play in mud and be creative and not sit down and learn to read and write. So since then we've homeschooled. And she's actually an avid reader. If I'd known what I know now about homeschooling I'd never have sent her. But at…

READERS' STORIES

First, take a nature walk and collect up some beautiful flower petals. This craft works best with flower buds and petals that are not very thick. I set out with a little bowl and gathered a number of petals. Then I came inside and found my box of canning jar rings. That's what we'll use as a frame for this nature craft project. I'm no longer doing any canning so it's good to have some projects that use up some of these supplies. I'm going to make two suncatchers using wide mouth jar rings and one with the narrow mouth jar lids. I had purchased some clear contact paper earlier in anticipation of this craft idea, so I was thankful I had that on hand when the inspiration struck. I…

MILK TEETH Baby teeth first appear between three and twelve months. By three years your child will have twenty baby teeth. Cutting of baby teeth can be a miserable time for you and your baby. Some babies' gums swell or their cheeks seem fuller and flushed. To help ease the pain, give your baby something to chew on like a cold teether (oskoe.com, pictured), or if they're old enough, cold food such as carrot from the fridge, or frozen bananas. Gum rubbing also helps relieve discomfort. Try Weleda's Chamomile Teething Granules available from weleda.co.uk for pain relief. It's good to get an early start on caring for your baby's baby teeth so your child gets used to having them brushed regularly. When ready, you can try letting your baby brush…

When We're Ready

Kirsty Duncan breastfeeds her three-year-old daughter to sleep each night, and found representation of co-sleeping and natural term breastfeeding thin on the ground. So she decided to write her own book! “My daughter's been an avid breastfeeder since birth. We've always fed to sleep, contact napped and co-slept. As a children's book author on FB, I decided I'd write a book about breastfeeding and cosleeping. I really want people to feel seen, represented and empowered to practice biological norms.” When We're Ready is a rhyming children's picture book with stunning illustrations from the talented Sungsu Heaven. Emma Pickett, IBCLC Lactation Consultant says, “This is a precious book, with beautiful illustrations that honours a natural-term breastfeeding journey. I know this will connect with families and become a loved favourite.” Follow @kirstyduncanwrites…

Could you tell us a bit about yourself? “I've been a midwife since 2012, practicing in birth centres, with home births, on community wards and am now a delivery suite co-ordinator. I also practice as a pelvic health specialist midwife. I love being a sister in a high risk environment where we can try and facilitate some normal physiology in a space that might be considered highly medicalised - it makes a big difference to women's experiences. I am relentlessly passionate about supporting women and families. You change as a human being through the journey of pregnancy, birth and postpartum, and it's of paramount importance that that experience is positive and empowering, because you take it with you for life.” You say in the book that “A positive birth is…

I was inspired by the birth of my firstborn ten years ago. I'd longed to be a mother ever since I was little. I imagined wonder and utmost joy. And the reality was a heart full of love intermingled with pain, loneliness and exhaustion. I didn't realise how much grief I'd held inside. I had no real sense of community, and I longed for deep conversations, loving support and a shoulder to cry on. I felt lost in mother and baby groups; I didn't feel I could connect with anyone in an authentic way. I searched for a nurturing space that I could join with my baby. The Nesting Circle came from a deep longing for a sacred space. 3 ways to care for yourself I love helping mamas to…

MELTDOWN MANAGEMENT Tantrums are a typical part of toddler development and peak between 18 and 36 months! But here's the hard part, says Devon Kuntzman. “Knowing this doesn't make it any easier to sit with a child's big feelings and emotions during a tantrum. What makes it easier for me is to think about them as an emotional release. One of the most important things as you help your child move through a tantrum is to focus on keeping yourself calm and grounded. Embracing your child during the hard moments is the simplest form of showing unconditional love. It can be all that's needed to show them you're connected. Remember, tantrums are NOT a reflection of your parenting. It's not personal. It's your little one learning to navigate this world.”…

POSITIVE + NUMBERS 72

Bringing Magic Beth Shutt is Founder and Chief Potion Maker at youthandwild.co.uk “I live with my husband and sons, Isaac, 11 and Bertie, seven in sunny Lancashire! We love adventures and I also run our local community choir with my sister Jane! During lockdown, my children were playing with old spice and herb jars in their mud kitchen. They were so absorbed in their play, concocting their own potions and it planted the seed in my mind of creating natural potion kits and my business was born! For parents who want to bring a bit of magic into everyday family life, I'd say, don't get too involved; let your child lead. I know that I am guilty sometimes of trying to lead my children to play a certain way or…

POSITIVE + NUMBERS 72

PICTURE BOOKS FEATURING KIDS WITH AUTISM

A Day with No Words (Wheat Penny Press) Shares what life can look like for families who use nonverbal communication, utilizing tools to embrace their unique method of “speaking.” Masterpiece (Wishing Star Publishing) An inclusive story featuring Samuel, a boy on the autism spectrum who sees the world differently to his peers. Has won many awards. How Are You, Verity (Magination Press) When people say “How are you?” are they really asking or just saying hello? In this story, Verity, who is neurodivergent, plans an experiment to figure this out.…

PICTURE BOOKS FEATURING KIDS WITH AUTISM

LETTERBOX LEARNING

ARCO MAKE Joe Mulcrone founded Arco Make because he recognised that many people felt certain aspects of making were beyond their reach. “Woodworking and textiles, in particular, seem daunting to many, but even a little knowledge can unlock a world of possibilities. Once you create something yourself, you start to see how everyday items are constructed. This insight helps you realise that when something breaks, you can repair it instead of replacing it. By teaching these skills to children, we can ignite a passion for making and cultivate a mindset that values sustainability and creativity. This hands-on approach not only enhances their skills but also fosters a more conscious perspective on the everyday items we use. I'm so excited about launching our new subscription service: Arco Monthly Makers! This monthly…

LETTERBOX LEARNING

PURE EARTH COLLECTION We love the new swimwear at Pure Earth Collection, which is leading the way in sustainable swimming costumes! Made from organic cotton with super safe, non-toxic dyes for vibrant colours without harmful chemicals, the 2% lycra used is free from PFAS and BPA. This swimwear significantly reduces microplastic pollution, compared with conventional polyester or nylon costumes, which shed millions of tiny plastic particles with each wear. Rated UPF 50+, offering sun protection for peace of mind during summer adventures. pureearthcollection.com LITTLE GREEN RADICALS Started in 2005, Little Green Radicals has a range of swimwear made from recycled materials! Offering UPF 50+ sun protection, plus long-sleeves and high neck on their sunsuits for extra skin coverage. Material is soft and stretchy with flat seams for extra comfort and…

LISTEN TO THIS! Do enough children understand about neurodiversity? One of Britain's best-known impressionists Rory Bremner narrates Thinking Differently, the latest episode of the children's podcast The Wonder Podcast for Curious Kids. Rory Bremner, who has ADHD, encourages listeners to think differently about dyslexia and dyscalculia, ADHD and autism. Even today these terms are badly misunderstood and, in this new episode, Bremner speaks up for the strengths, as well as the struggles, that come with these conditions. “Even the label Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder is strange because it is not 'attention deficit', it's 'attention surfeit' – paying attention to too many different things – and it's not really a disorder, it's a difference,” says Bremner. Listen to this episode and more at wonderaudio.podbean.com making magic moments Carla von Anhalt lives…

Aquila Award-winning AQUILA magazine is designed for children of 8 – 14 years. With over 30 year's experience in educational publishing, every new topic contains a whole book's worth of reading. The theme for July/ August edition is Summer Adventure. aquila.co.uk Adventure Box This title is made for kids who have just begun to read independently. The illustrated story, comics and puzzles help kids feel that they've arrived at the next step in their reading journey. Each edition has an audio book to accompany. bayard-magazines.co.uk Anorak Magazine The 'happy mag for kids' is aimed at children aged between 6 and 12 years old. Printed on recycled paper with vegetable ink, each issue is a calm, immersive, fun piece of culture. They also produce DOT, which is aimed at pre-schoolers. anorakmagazine.com…

How I became a footie mum!

child Imagine a family where weekends are usually about art projects and Lego creations suddenly deciding to kick around a football for a year. That's us! We're your typical artsy and STEM-loving bunch, but last year, we took a wild turn and signed up our sons Griffin and Adair for football at our local YMCA. Why? Well, why not? This isn't just a story about football; it's about us stepping out of our comfort zone and into cleats, and let me tell you, it was quite the adventure! Why We Chose Football Why football, of all things? Well, we figured it was time for Griffin and Adair to try something completely different. We're all about exploring new horizons, and football seemed like the perfect mix of energy, teamwork, and a…

How I became a footie mum!

RAIN, WIND OR SHINE

child inspiring schools I've always been interested in both the natural world and education. School of the Wild is the perfect combination of these two topics for me. When researching as an independent school teacher several years ago, I came across the concept of forest and nature schools. I remember thinking what an innovative idea it was to have a classroom outdoors. And how beneficial it would be to my oldest son, who was around five years old at the time. So it was first a dream, then a goal, and then a reality when I was finally able to bring it to fruition four years ago. A typical day includes a morning nature lesson as well as student-led exploration and snack time. We have a lunch and play break mid-day,…

RAIN, WIND OR SHINE

THE BOOK & GAMES NOOK

When I Feel Brave Britta Teckentrup £12.99 Prestel This illustrations in this book are beautiful and powerful. You can really feel the fear before the character feels brave. The message I feel is for older children, ages 6 upwards. At only 4, Ewan was scared of this book and the message at the end was beautifully written but he didn't really understand the metaphor it used. I will be putting this book away until he is older and will try again. It is very atmospheric and beautifully illustrated. Sarah B Nature's Fascinating Friendships: Survival of the friendliest – how plants and animals work together £14.99 Faber & Faber We loved this book! The illustrations are beautiful and it's a really engaging, original non-fiction book, full of obscure facts about the…

THE BOOK & GAMES NOOK

Listen - Gloriously Unready The Gloriously Unready podcast is created by Josephine Hughes “My children came out at the ages of 16 and 21, back in 2015. At that time there wasn't a lot of information or support for parents of transgender young people. And to be honest, I struggled to adapt to my children's identity. However, as time went by, I was able to process my feelings and the experience. I learned that, although my children had changed forever and life would never be the same again, I could live a life of joy and hope. The answer lay not in what was outside myself, but what was within me. In the Gloriously Unready podcast, I describe how change challenged my identity and relationships, and listen to other families'…

POSITIVE + NUMBERS 8

Deepen Your Relationships Why can parent-child relationships feel so hard? You're not alone - this dynamic has been contemplated for hundreds (if not thousands) of years. Dr. Gabor Maté, and his son David have created a course called Starting Fresh to help you transform your relationship with your parent or adult child. Take the workshop together or on your own. In this 10-part workshop, Gabor and Daniel offer a framework for parents and adult children to transform stuck dynamics through a combination of self-reflection, somatic inquiry, and compassionate coaching. “Starting fresh” doesn't mean the relationship will be perfect, but you will be able to engage with it in the present and approach challenges in fresh ways. Watch the free trial at onecommune.com/starting-fresh-with-dr-gabor-and-daniel-mate-free-trial.…

POSITIVE + NUMBERS 8

TIME TO LOG OFF

When did you become interested in digital wellbeing? “I was a digital entrepreneur for 20 years, but I started to feel worried about the way tech was manipulating us to spend more time online. So I pivoted away, and started doing talks in school about 12 years ago.” How to you approach speaking to kids? “I want to empower them and not patronise them. When I talk to kids in schools, I'm always impressed with how thoughtful and switched-on they are.” At what age should parents start engaging with their children about screen use? “A quarter of four- and five-year-olds have their own smartphones. So we need to start young. Things can happen faster than we anticipate. Parents need to think about having those kinds of conversations around the dinner…

TIME TO LOG OFF

The 8 Secrets of Close Communication

teen Did your family have great discussions when you were growing up? Were people interested in hearing and learning from each other's opinions? What happened when your needs conflicted with those of your parents? What happened when your parents disagreed with each other? Was there a sense that family members could respectfully disagree, come up with a solution that worked for everyone, and end the discussion feeling closer to each other? Could you tell your parents anything? Want your kids to tell you what's going on in their lives when they're fifteen? Start by making these commitments today. 1 Commit to dealing with your own issues If you're uncomfortable talking about your son's birthmark or adoption, he will be also. If you've been struggling with your weight for years and…

The 8 Secrets of Close Communication

embrace slow productivity Holistic Health Coach, Claudia Dumond (weareminimondo.com) talks about the power of single-tasking in a multitasking world. “How can we transition from unstructured urgency to slow productivity? Here are some simple yet effective approaches to get you started: PLAN AHEAD: Incorporating planning and intentionality into our daily routines is paramount for fostering slow productivity. By dedicating time the night before to plan and organise our tasks for the day ahead, we set ourselves up for success. PRIORITISE YOUR TASKS: Be clear on your priorities and break your goals down into smaller actions. The benefits of single-tasking are clear - it leads to greater productivity, fosters creativity, improves decision-making, and reduces stress. TIME BOXING: Allocate specific time slots for different tasks throughout the day. Consider blocking out an hour…

Sharing Sisterhood

wellbeing When my youngest daughter was eight months old, I wanted to attend a Red Tent. I had read the novel by Anita Diamant and craved a supportive female space where we could talk about our experiences of family life, the menstrual cycle, pregnancy and birth. The nearest gathering was too far away so I took the plunge and started my own circle. The first Red Tent I hosted was in my living room with a collection of curious friends and neighbours. They were invited to bring crafts along and we knitted / crocheted / sewed our way through sharing experiences of having a menstrual cycle. It became normal that we would open the circle with sharing our name and what day of the cycle we were on. (Day 1…

Sharing Sisterhood

What is a Listening Partnership?

This concept was created by Hand-in-Hand Parenting. One person talks first, while the other listens. Eye contact, nodding, verbal acknowledgements (hmm, aha) are encouraged, but not words, even if the speaker is silent for a while. After the speaker finishes (start with 5 minutes), the listener asks clearing questions. For example, “What did you have for breakfast?”, “What colour is your top?” Questions that are easy to answer and take the speaker out of the reflective state. Then the listener becomes the speaker. At the end of the allotted time, the new listener asks clearing questions. Rather than chatting afterwards, you could repeat the process or agree to have another listening partnership soon. This process encourages deep listening. It can be freeing for the listener to not have to think about…

THE POWER OF ELDER

wellbeing Herbalism is both a Science and an Art, this craft is as old as humanity and has much magic weaved into all aspects. Nature connection is paramount to our spiritual, emotional and physical health and one part of that connection is how we interact with the plants that grow around us. Kitchen Witch Kitchen witchery is a phrase to describe all magical kitchen creations, everything from making herb syrups and salves, to seasonal garden grown salads and soups. A mixture of science, art, medicine, movement, magic, tradition and love. We believe this type of work is something essential to humanity, a social glue, and a special power passed down to us all by our ancestors. And something to share with our family and community. Making meals and medicines into…

THE POWER OF ELDER

Apple - The Lover

wellbeing your tree sign Apple is not part of the standard Celtic Tree Ogham but it was considered a powerful tree to our ancestors and September is the month of this fruitful tree. The original apple tree in the UK is the Crab Apple – a deciduous tree that flowers in April and May with a distinctive five petal white or pink flower. The scent of these flowers is similar to honeysuckle and a valuable source of nectar for the bees. The tree is small, rarely reaching more than twenty feet high. Find them wild in hedgerows and inhabiting the edge places in woodland. You can spot them by their gnarly bark and heart shaped, glossy leaves. By autumn, crab apples are ready for harvest; some trees fruit into winter. These…

Apple - The Lover

GO CAR-FREE For parents of young children, making the switch to a car-free lifestyle can seem like more hassle than it's worth says Michaela Lovell at sustrans.org.uk. “However, walking, cycling or scooting to school, improves children's learning and ability to concentrate, makes them feel good, and can build their confidence and social skills – all things essential to the school day ahead. This World Car Free Day on 22 September, to reduce your car use or go totally car-free it's essential to plan ahead. This will save time and unnecessary stress. Finding quieter roads and cycle paths wherever possible will help make the journey easier and more enjoyable. When planning a big journey, once you have decided your route, try out a practice run when the roads are quieter. Knowing…

create a polyculture

A polyculture is one of the easiest and most productive ways of growing your own food says Jamie Walton. “It's the opposite of a mono culture (which is one crop per growing space) and this diversity of plants increases biodiversity, soil health and yields, as well as reducing pest pressure and you don't need a lot of space. To sow a polyculture simply prepare any bed or growing container by top dressing it with a layer of organic compost and then broadcast (or scatter) a diverse array of seed within it at the same time that produce at different points throughout the season. I've just sowed: rocket, which will produce first, mixed lettuce, which will be harvested second, and then rainbow chard, spring onion, beetroot, parsley, carrots, chicory and parsnips,…

create a polyculture

TAKE ACTION Most of our oldest trees are not legally protected. The Woodland Trust have launched a campaign urging governments across the UK to change that. Trees are living legends. They've witnessed centuries of change and been part of our landscape for generations. They're also vital havens for wildlife and important carbon stores, bringing health and wellbeing benefits for people and nature alike. But our oldest and most valuable trees are also vulnerable. Right now, most ancient trees have no real legal protection in the UK. Many face a range of threats. These national treasures should be here to stay. They deserve the same sort of protection enjoyed by old buildings, beloved national recipes and other endangered wildlife – some of which can't survive without ancient trees. Find out more…

The Organic Way

1 Join the organic community - Whether you're taking your first steps to live more sustainably, or you're already a greenfingered organic gardener, joining the wider community is a great place to start if you care about nature-friendly food and farming. Sign up to stay abreast of Soil Association news and campaigns at soilassociation.org. 2 Get to know what organic really means - Did you know organic food has to follow strict legal standards, to make sure it's always better for animals, wildlife, soils and plants? Those growing and making it also have to be rigorously inspected at least once a year by whichever organic certification body they choose. Built on the principles of health, ecology, care and fairness, no other defined system of farming and food production comes close to…

The Organic Way

8 WAYS TO SAVE MONEY CHOOSING ORGANIC

The UK Government has committed in law to cutting the country's greenhouse emissions 80% by 2050. Only radical changes to our diets and farming systems can achieve the level of greenhouse gas cuts needed. And some of these changes can be made the next time you shop. Buying organic food, alongside a shift to less meat and dairy products, with more seasonal fruit and vegetables should be the first step for anyone who takes climate change seriously. The Soil Association has the following tips to stay healthy, ethical and save money. 1 Sign-up to an organic box scheme. Get local, seasonal and organic fruit and veg delivered straight to your doorstep, and get excellent value for money while you're at it. 2 Cook fresh fruit and veg from scratch. Avoiding…

8 WAYS TO SAVE MONEY CHOOSING ORGANIC

“I actually think it's easier to parent in a tiny home! It's quicker to clean up meaning more quality time together”

“As we move very slowly; we're usually able to moor somewhere for 14 days until we find a new place around the corner to explore. We don't have to pay mooring fees and get to see incredible parts of the country. We bought the narrowboat when I was pregnant with Theabella in summer 2022. Until then we had been living and travelling in our self-built camper van in Scotland and Europe, but we wanted to be closer to home for the birth and have some more space. Our most important life values are health and happiness; so we prioritise healthy food, lots of time in nature, quality time together and travel in our van or boat. We try to live as much of a part of nature as we can.…

“I actually think it's easier to parent in a tiny home! It's quicker to clean up meaning more quality time together”

fudgy blondies Anthea Cheng is founder of Rainbow Nourishments (rainbownourishments.com). Here she shares a recipe for soft and fudgy chickpea blondies made from healthier ingredients. These blondies are easy to make and are naturally vegan and refined sugar-free. Add the following ingredients to a food processor or blender: 250g chickpeas, 125g cashew (or other nut) butter, 45g oat flour, 170g maple syrup, 2 tsps vanilla extract, 1tsp bicarbonate of soda and a pinch of salt. Blend until the mixture is as smooth as possible. It should be slightly runny. Remove the blade of your food processor and add 85g chocolate chips; mix with a spoon or spatula. Pour the batter into a greased and lined baking pan. Smooth the surface with a spoon. Sprinkle additional chocolate chips on top of…

POSITIVE + NUMBERS 75

WE LOVE Foraging: The Complete Guide for Kids and Families is the new book by Stella and Dane De Luca Mulandiee. Discover how to become an expert in foraging and discover food, medicines and even soaps in the natural world around you. Kids will learn how to find the best berries and plants for making yummy foods. They'll learn about the incredible stories hidden in the flowers and plants and trees you see every day (and some you might never have spotted). With handy tips and colourful illustrations, this is a comprehensive guide to nature and foraging and an essential for nature-loving families everywhere. Read more about Stella and Dane at link.thegreenparent.co.uk/foraging…

POSITIVE + NUMBERS 75

OPEN-FIRE COOKING

eat MEET THE CHEF Eight years ago, Eva and Nicolai Tram moved with their two young boys from the city of Copenhagen to the Swedish woods, seeking a better balance between work and family life. As they spent more time in nature, they soon found that cooking on fire came naturally, and a book grew from their shared passion for cooking and nature. “For decades, open-fire cooking has been considered a pastime reserved for scouts, leaving the rest of us to grill sausages on the terrace. But open-fire cooking is for everyone. It is sensuous and impractical in the best sense of the word. It is as much about the time spent making the food as it is about eating it. Since man discovered the art of controlling fire a million…

OPEN-FIRE COOKING

GREEN PARENT MARKET

Elephant Box Everything we make is useful, durable & stylish. A whole range of things for a sustainable home. From lunchboxes to drinkware, plus our bestselling washing up bowl. The best thing? Everything is built to last. www.elephantbox.co.uk The Greener Camping Club Camping and Glamping Holidays that don't cost the earth - Over 160 exclusive sites, from tranquil countryside to dramatic coastal locations. Family-fun, family-run campsites spread across England and Wales. Create your everlasting memories and help contribute positively to the environment at the same time. www.greenercamping.org Voxblock Voxblock is the screen-free audiobook player for children 3-12. With no need for Wi-Fi, apps or downloads, kids can listen without distraction. 130+ audiobooks available. 4.8 stars on Trustpilot. 100% plastic free packaging. Starter Pack includes a Voxblock player, three audiobooks and…

GREEN PARENT MARKET

guided by fairies Karen Kay was inspired by the fairies to set up 3 Wishes Fairy Festival back in 2006. “One day, I heard a voice (that was not my own), and it said, “You must organise a fairy festival at the time of midsummer in Cornwall”, it was a very bossy voice! The festival is now moving to Glastonbury with a new date in August (16-18), and yes, this has been approved by the fairies! They guided me to the new site in Godney at Garslade Farm. Running a festival is not for the faint hearted as it takes a lot of behind-the-scenes work to create the space where everyone can come together to celebrate the fairies. Sometimes I have to pinch myself when I think about the work…

POSITIVE + NUMBERS 2,500

3 SURF SPOTS Tania Nesbitt at academyofsurfing.com shares the top beginner's surfing spots in the UK. “There's a wealth of excellent surf spots. From Fistral's consistency, to Croyde's powerful peaks, to Thurso's icy giants, there are legendary spots that create legendary surfers decorating the edges of this island but here are my favourite for those just starting out. BELHAVEN, SCOTLAND A little slice of beginner surfer heaven lives in Scotland and calls itself Belhaven. This is a haven for surfers setting out on the path to greatness. Situated on the North Sea coast approximately 30 miles east of Edinburgh, this break holds a good, forgiving wave. NEWGALE, WALES If you want a break that fires with unerring consistency all year round, then Newgale in the heart of the Pembrokeshire Coastal National…

POSITIVE + NUMBERS 2,500

“I run YAY Sustainable, an ecological hotel and retreat centre,” explains Kelly. “Guy runs a hostel and foundation that organises activities for kids of the local community. We fell in love with this special place. The indigenous tribes call it: 'the heart of the world”. The nature is so ancient, so pure and still intact. Many river streams come from the snowy mountains of the Sierra Nevada, and flow down to the Caribbean beaches. You find waterfalls and so much wild nature around those rivers. I feel that my purpose here is to contribute towards protecting mother nature for our future generations. Many of us have lost our connection with the earth. At YAY you can reconnect with nature in many ways. We aim to inspire our guests on the…

LAND OF ICE & FIRE

explore The magical land of Ice and Fire instantly captivated us all. The boys were fascinated by the mythological tales of night trolls and stories of vikings which swirled around us. The forces of nature in Iceland mixed with the history and folklore created the most enchanting experience with endless opportunities for the boys to learn about our planet and the world around them. When we arrived in Reykjavík we headed straight for CampEasy HQ (campeasy.com), located just down the road from the airport, to collect our home for the week. Our campervan had two double beds, a small kitchen and a dining table along with warm bedding and a heater. We hired everything we needed, including car seats for the boys, towels, gas refills etc. With countless memorable experiences…

LAND OF ICE & FIRE

explore Firstly, finding the right bike for your child is important. A lot of lower-priced children's bikes are under-specced and overweight; 15kg is typical, which can be half the rider's bodyweight. Your child will get more enjoyment out of cycling – and more miles – with a lighter bike. As a rough guide, aim for 13kg or less for 20in and 24in wheel bikes, especially if they're likely to go off-road. WHAT SIZE? Don't be tempted to buy a bike for your child to 'grow into'. An over-large bike will be awkward to ride. As a rule of thumb, 14in or 16in wheeled bikes suit ages four to six, 20in wheeled bikes ages five to 10, and 24in wheeled bikes ages eight to 12. A long seatpost and a steerer…

OUTDOOR Wildwood Trust Focussed on conservation and rewilding, this wildlife park has more than 200 British native animals plus more in natural enclosures, set in 40 acres of ancient woodland. See huge bison, elk, dormice, wolves, bears, owls and snakes and learn about the trust's work with the introduction of species such as European bison, beavers and red-billed choughs to the UK. Stay for lunch in the cafe and a swing in the playground. wildwoodtrust.org River Life With two picturesque sites close to the city on the historic River Stour, Canoe Wild is an easy-going place from which to hire kayaks, canoes and SUPs. All ages are welcome; choose your boat and paddle slowly up down the leafy river, then finish offwith a roast dinner at the George and Dragon…

RSPB Blean Woods RSPB Blean Woods in Rough Common in the Canterbury suburbs is a beautiful spot for kids to explore nature, especially if you have a dog in tow. Less than 5 minutes drive from the city centre and you're transformed into a stunning nature reserve. Threre's a variety of footpaths to explore to suit little legs as well as the more adventurous explorers. Car parking on site with a picnic area nearby: rspb.org.uk Wilder Blean Project The Wildwood Trust have also introduced Bison to roam freely in the neighbouring woods, which makes a dog walk in the woods much more exciting. Known as The Wilder Blean Project, there are only five bison in the woods so spotting them is a real treat although there are plenty of wild…

Win these fantastic prizes

WIN WIN one of 3 Skin:Genius SOS Duo Sets for Eczema, Psoriasis-prone and Dry Skin RRP £39.00 Do you, or someone you know suffer with dry, itchy, tight, cracked sore skin? Cream Come True and Oil Day Long contain ingredients including Starflower, Chickweed and Calendula which are bursting with vitamins, minerals and antioxidants, known to protect, soothe, moisturise and relieve dry, itchy and inflamed skin. Shea Butter, Olive and Sunflower contain essential fatty acids that leave the skin feeling soft and nourished, looking calm and bright. Easily absorbed into the skin and not greasy at all, use as often as you like to bring relief and prevent symptom from returning. Perfect to use on nappy rash and cradle cap too! Suitable for babies, teens and adults. Use discount code TGP15…

Win these fantastic prizes

Leo JUL 23 – AUG 22 Summer is the time to focus on your personal needs and to identify what you need next for your progress. There may be financial issues to attend to as Mercury backtracks through your money zone, but this can be positive if you work towards aligning your finances with your values. There may be an element of drama but go with it, knowing that the track you are on is taking you to exactly where you need to be. Virgo AUG 23 – SEP 22 With Mercury retrograde in your sign, August is a month for reflection so take time out if you need it. Meanwhile, Mars and Jupiter in your success area are pushing you to pursue your goals and ambitions, so you will…

balancing motherhood

life notes Imagine a life where your everyday soundtrack is the rhythmic crash of waves and mesmerising birdcalls, your backdrop a lush paradise. A place where you can take thrilling surf sessions and invigorating hikes. I'm a New Mexican native, a Latina mama, who has made Florida my home. My passions are adventure and travel; I get bored living in the same place for too long! I knew from a young age I was meant to live near the ocean. My childhood bedroom was filled to the brim with dolphin figurines, posters, and dreams of waves and saltwater. Growing up in the southwestern US, we had rivers but no ocean. I didn't dip my toe into the ocean until I was fourteen years old. And then I was hooked. I…

balancing motherhood

Hello beautiful

Welcome to your 2024 Beauty Bible. I'm delighted to announce the winners in our Green Parent Natural Beauty Awards 2024. A panel of testers has spent the last few months trying out hundreds of products, everything from toothpaste tabs to period pads, baby balm to facial oil. And then reviewing and rating each product against a strict set of criteria. From these ratings and comments we then choose the very best in each category, in terms of effectiveness, sustainability and company ethics. Armed with this handy guide you can shop for your family with complete peace of mind. And pick yourself up a super ethical treat or two from the winners. Oh, and to accompany this guide, we've plenty of inspirational stories and self-care tips popping up on our website…

Natural Beauty Awards Winners Toner GOLD The Kelpie Facial Toner, £19 nana-kats-apothecary.co.uk “The best toner I've ever used! It smells amazing and leaves my menopausal skin looking fresh and clear. It's gentle on my skin and is the perfect base for my serum and moisturiser. The mist pump is fantastic for delivering the toner evenly and is perfect for cooling hot flushes!” Catherine J SILVER Hydrating Facial Toner, £23 aniskincare.com BRONZE Normal – Dry Skin Micellar & Toner with Neroli & Lavender, £10 valleymist.co.uk GOLD Eye Cream GOLD Nakin Eye Cream Complex, £20 nakinskincare.com “This cream feels lovely and thick (but not too thick) and my skin felt really happy and moisturised after using it. A little goes a long way, too, which I really like. Packaging was simple but felt…

Natural Beauty Awards Winners Blusher GOLD Mineral Blusher, £9 honeypieminerals.com “I love this product! Honey Pie Minerals has really smashed it producing make-up that's 100% natural yet gives really good coverage and looks fab. This was a pretty, light pink that's great for spring days and gives a lovely subtle colour. It's great to be able to use make-up knowing it won't irritate sensitive skin.” Lucy C GOLD GOLD Lip Gloss GOLD Lip Tint - Pinkalicious, 25.99 NZD yesorganics.nz “I liked this tinted lip balm as it gave my lips a subtle boost of colour, whilst keeping them soft. The colour stayed on my lips. I liked the brightness of the box and tube, they look fun and colourful. The lip tint comes in a traditional twist up tube which makes it…

Natural Beauty Awards Winners GOLD Application Tools GOLD Earthwise Cleansing Pads, £9.95 earthwisegirls.co.uk “Really loved that these came in a bag you can wash and store them in. Really soft and easy to use. Perfect packaging as bag was multipurpose.” Laura B GOLD Mascara GOLD Purity Lash Mascara, £29 uk.inikaorganic.com “This has a nice colour and gives a natural lash effect. I prefer a lot of mascara so I had to put a few layers on to get the look I like. Very nice sleek looking tube and the brush was easy to use.” Jessica M SILVER Hair Mascaras, £24.99 thenaturalplaymakeupcompany.co.uk GOLD Lipstick GOLD Lipstick Kirra Pink, £18.95 ecobysonyadriver.co.uk “A bright, summery uplift of a lipstick. Glides on quite softly though I did tend to wear with a bit of lipbalm for…

Natural Beauty Awards Winners Body Scrub GOLD Renewal Body Polish, £28 aniskincare.com “I absolutely love this scrub! It's luxurious and my skin feels gorgeous after using it. I'm not usually a fan of large 'bits' in scrubs but I don't think they are too course in this product. And the oil keeps me super moisturised. It's a good size pot for the price, and I like that it comes with a wooden spoon. The packaging is simple but feels luxurious.” Kimberley L SILVER Frosted Pear Body Scrub, £19.50 buddha-beauty.com BRONZE Body Smooth refreshing polish, £24 tropicskincare.com GOLD Menstrual Care GOLD Period Pants, £18 wuka.co.uk “Really comfortable to wear and wash well. Like the added support around lower abdomen, especially when on my period. No seams, so can wear with anything. Made…

Natural Beauty Awards Winners GOLD Body Oil GOLD Stress Away, £24 devaiyaoils.com “The rich smell of this oil really is calming and therapeutic. It is very powerful and a little goes a long way. Lovely to have to hand as a pick-me-up throughout the day. I used it almost as a perfume - applying a little to my wrists and neckline.” Elizabeth C SILVER Surya Sunshine Body Oil, £24 moksa.co.uk BRONZE Ayurvedic Body Oil - Unwind, $49 lamav.com Shower Gel GOLD Hemp Liquid Castile Soap, £7.95 thehempstore.co.uk “The spearmint gives this product a really zingy feel, perfect as a wake up in my morning shower! It feels nice and creamy and creates a good lather too. I like the metal bottle. Good eco-friendly packaging.” Jessica M SILVER Sweet Orange & Rose Geranium…

Natural Beauty Awards Winners GOLD Baby Oil GOLD Oil Day Long, £22.50 skin-genius.co.uk “I felt this was good value for money at £22.50 for 100ml. It smelled gorgeous, with a fresh lavender fragrance, and the calendula made it especially useful for my baby's bath! It took a while for the product to absorb into skin when applied directly, and the fragrance was subtle once applied. It helped my baby's skin recover where he had cradle cap, by moisturising his scalp.” Amy W SILVER Fall into Dreams Mother & Baby Massage Oil, £29 littlebutterflylondon.com BRONZE Mumanu Organic Mum & Baby Balm, £20 mumanu.com Baby Balm GOLD Wonder Balm, £35 vemel.co.uk “This balm has been used to soften skin, smooth eyebrows, soften hands, put on a bruise and calm frizzy hair. It really…

Natural Beauty Awards Winners GOLD Children's Bubblebath GOLD Kit & Kin Baby Bubble Bath, £9.99 kitandkin.com “I absolutely love this product. My little one has such sensitive skin and this is so gentle for her. It has a lovely soft smell that lingers after but isn't too overpowering. It does not seem drying like others and the kids feel all clean after using.” Helen B SILVER Bubbles in the Breeze Top to Toe Wash, £19.50 littlebutterflylondon.com BRONZE Mini U Sparkling Strawberry Bubble Bath, £5.75 miniu.co.uk Baby Lotion/Cream GOLD Soothing Skin Balm With Frankincense & Lavender, £12 valleymist.co.uk “A lovely, thick balm with a calming fragrance that is soothing to use and leaves my skin feeling soft. Most of the ingredients are organic too and 100% natural. I liked the brand's sustainable…

Natural Beauty Awards Winners GOLD Hair Treat GOLD Akamuti Organic Coconut Oil with Ylang Ylang, £9.95 akamuti.co.uk “Product is all over moisturiser and can also be used as hair treatment oil. Fairly simple one - coconut oil with added essential oils. You only need a small amount of this hard oil as it melts when in contact with hands or body. My hair loved this oil and was almost silky after use! Product comes in metal tin that can be easily recycled or reused to store something else as is decent size.” Laura L SILVER Revitalising Hair Tonic, £14.95 weleda.co.uk BRONZE Natural Scalp Scrub (Hibiscus + Mint), £16.99 awakeorganics.co.uk GOLD Conditioner GOLD Summer Dreamer - Solid Conditioner Bar with Jasmine & Rose, £10 wild-ona.com “This has converted me to solid conditioners.…

Natural Beauty Awards Winners GOLD Bath Product GOLD Rinse and Retreat Sensitive Body Wash, £10 tropicskincare.com “This body wash has a luxurious thick texture a little seems to go a long way. Feels like a body mask when applied to the skin initially and then lathers into a soft and shiny foam, leaves skin feeling cleansed, and has a light fresh scent. Skin felt nourished and clean, felt good for sensitive skin. After 2-3 days of using my skin felt soft and supple. The effects don't last after the shower or bath like an oil but certainly feels like your body has had a deep cleanse.” Diana H SILVER Mother's Bath Oil, £19 nealsyardremedies.com BRONZE Sensitive Almond Nourishing Body Wash, £8.25 weleda.co.uk Massage Oil/Cream GOLD Mumanu Organic Aromatherapy Massage Collection, £80…

Natural Beauty Awards Winners GOLD Supplement GOLD Organic Amla, £24.97 trueveda.com “I was very excited to start the capsules as I'm perimenopausal and have been looking into different supplements. After a few days of taking these capsules twice a day I noticed that my energy levels had increased, mental alertness, quality of sleep, emotional well-being and my hormones seemed more balanced. I also noticed I wasn't having as many night sweats, my anxiety and heart palpitations had calmed down and I didn't wake as much as I normally do.” Lyn S SILVER HRI Clear Complexion, £5.49 hriherbalmedicine.co.uk BRONZE Inspiriko - Organic Black Seed Oil, £19.99 inspiriko.co.uk GOLD After Sun GOLD Moisturising After Sun with Insect Repellent, £17 greenpeople.co.uk “This feels really cooling and soothing on the skin, which is reinforced by…

Natural Beauty Awards Winners 1 Saponins Cream Cleanser, £42 sachiskin.com “This is a velvety cleanser with Ayurvedic properties that's super effective at removing makeup and leaving skin feeling refreshed and bright.” 2 Rose Renew Regenerating Serum, £46 baiebotanique.com “This wonderful serum hydrates and softens almost instantly. My skin felt radiant after use and this effect lasted for hours. A new favourite to add to my morning routine.” 3 Wonder Balm, £25 franchineyoung.com “I love a multi-purpose product! This Wonder Balm can be used as a cleanser or moisturiser and I found it really nourishing as a night treatment.” 4 Orange Blossom Facial Oil, £25 luvmyoil.co.uk “This replenishing night oil smells divine and comes beautifully packaged in a glass bottle and wooden lid. Felt like a real decadent treat.” 5 Skin Dream firming night cream,…

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