Recent Articles

Finger Puppets from The Puppet Company (in: Games & toys)
Aug 19, 2024

The moment 16 month old Lizzie set eyes on these finger puppets from The Puppet Company, her face lit up with a huge smile. She knew at once they were for her and couldn't wait to touch them, writes Anne Coates.

Silent Sister by Megan Davidhizar (in: Books: children & YA)
Aug 14, 2024

Anne Coates reviews Silent Sister, a YA thriller, by Megan Davidhizar published on 15 August by Harper Fire.

Dubs Universe Flex Sneakers Competition Winner (in: Freebies, offers & competitions)
Aug 12, 2024

Our competition to win a pair of Dubs Universe Flex Sneakers was very popular but only one lucky winner.

Three New Picture Books for August (in: Books: children & YA)
Aug 1, 2024

Published today, three beautiful new picture books: A Book of People Like Me by Joelle Avelino, How to Grow a Mermaid by Rachel Morrisroe and Steven Lenton, and Countdown to Bedtime Sleepy Dragon by Tom Knight. Anne Coates reviews.

Bolt Backpack from Mountain Warehouse (in: Products & equipment)
Jul 30, 2024

Whether you're thinking of backpacking, day trips, commuting or school bags now is a great time to see what's on offer from Mountain Warehouse. Anne Coates tries out their Bolt Backpack.

Picture Books With Big Ideas (in: Books: children & YA)
Jul 29, 2024

Two beautifully illustrated picture books exploring big themes for little people reviewed by Anne Coates.

How to Protect and Care for your Skin this Summer (in: Healthy parents)
Jul 26, 2024

New research commissioned by Hada Labo Tokyo – the number one skincare brand in Japan – has shone a light on the sun protection habits of women in the UK, and there are areas for concern. GP, skin specialist and a member of the Hada Labo Tokyo Skin Care Panel, Dr Nisa Aslam shares her concerns and advises on the best way to protect our skin.

Boost Your Child's Online Safety (in: Safety)
Jul 24, 2024

During school holidays, children are likely to spend more time online, making them more vulnerable to online predators. As a parent, it is crucial to take proactive steps to protect your children, says Cyber Security expert Robert Kirk from SEO Builder. provides tips on essential device settings to switch off to ensure their online safety.

Contours Rx Colorset All-In-One-Pencil (in: Looking good, feeling great)
Jul 22, 2024

Contours Rx Colorset All-In-One-Pencil has at least five functions. Anne Coates put it to the test.

smarTrike Traveler ActiveStroller. (in: Products & equipment)
Jul 19, 2024

The smarTrike Traveler is the first convertible stroller that transforms into a trike with a simple push of a button. Anne Coates put it through its paces with Lizzie. And there will be a further review when the family goes on holiday accompanied by the smarTrike Traveler ActiveStroller. .

Paradox Museum, London (in: Great days out)
Jul 18, 2024

Harriet and Anne Coates attended the VIP opening of the Paradox Museum in Knightsbridge, London and recommend the experience.

Toilet Training in time for Starting School (in: Early years)
Jul 17, 2024

All aboard the Toilet Train: Children's charity ERIC launches a summer campaign to support children about to enter reception class who are not yet toilet trained.