***Update*** In the months since writing this post, following the announcement of the reforms to childcare ratios, there has been almost universal opposition to the proposals. It has even caused the online parenting sworn enemies Mumsnet and Netmums to join forces. Mumsnet invited Childcare Minister Liz Truss to take part in a webchat. Due … Continue reading Childcare: No parent is asking for less attention, however good at fractions.
Category: Parenting
Who’s Afraid of the Big Bad Wolf?
I’m not one for New Year’s Resolutions. I make the usual stab at the traditional stocking fillers of losing weight, saving money and drinking more water and with them come their inevitable companions of failure, disappointment and resentment. This year, following on from my fallow 2012 (see previous post), I’ve decided to bother. It’s inspiration … Continue reading Who’s Afraid of the Big Bad Wolf?
Girls on the High Seas
This week, my youngest son declared that girls cannot be pirates. The conversation went as follows: “What would you like to be Mummy?” “A pirate” “You can’t be a pirate, you must choose something girls are allowed to be” "Girls can be pirates" "No they can't, you can be a princess and that's it" My … Continue reading Girls on the High Seas
All About My Mother
Yesterday would have been my Mum’s 70th birthday. There would have been catering. There would have been a lot of catering. It would also have been my Dad’s birthday 2 weeks ago. I did remember, I did think about it but I was busy, I had work to do. He wouldn’t have minded. But Mum’s … Continue reading All About My Mother
Don’t Have Nightmares
It’s tough work being a parent. I have often likened it to any other career path. When you begin, it’s just a lot of long hours and dull repetitive manual labour. Like being a waitress but without the tips. As time goes by, you move higher up the corporate structure until you have a more … Continue reading Don’t Have Nightmares
New Pencil Case 