Jen Walshaw | Mum In The Madhouse

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Author name: Jen Walshaw

Mum-in-charge Jen Walshaw runs the UK’s top parenting blog Mum in the Madhouse, and she describes herself as a “fat, feisty and over 50” Northerner. Based in North Yorkshire, she’s mum to young adults and a big believer that family life is messy, creative and fun. In 2009 a double mastectomy gave her the nudge to start blogging; with two boys under three she needed an outlet and a digital scrapbook to capture their chaos.Jen’s posts are a mix of crafts, kid‑friendly recipes and honest parenting, peppered with northern humour. She’s happiest when up to her elbows in tea, fabric and pizza dough – sewing and making homemade gifts – before sneaking off to write about it. As a proud Northerner she warns PRs that a “quick pop down to London” isn’t quick at all. Her blog has earned her a stack of accolades, including the Cision #1 Mummy Blogger title in 2024  and consistently topping Vuelio and Tots100 parenting‑blog charts. Whether she’s advocating for diversity and body neutrality or sharing tales of parenting teens, Jen keeps things chatty, real and refreshingly down‑to‑earth.

Disguise an Elf – Fun Christmas Cut and Paste Craft for Kids

If your children love our Disguise a Gingerbread Man activities, then they are going to be so excited about this brand new Christmas version — Disguise an Elf! This free printable craft invites your kids to help an elf go undercover by dressing them up in fun and festive disguises. It’s a brilliant activity that […]

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Free St Nicholas Day Colouring Pages for Kids

If your children love Christmas colouring, then they will really enjoy this sweet set of Free St Nicholas Day Colouring Pages! These printable colouring sheets are perfect for learning about the tradition of St Nicholas, practising fine motor skills and joining in with early December celebrations in a simple, meaningful way. These pages are ideal

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Festive Chaos Cake Roundup – Creative Christmas Cake Ideas for All the Family

The best part of the holidays? The glorious chaos that comes from kids covered in sprinkles, icing sugar clouds in the kitchen, and cakes that may not win a bake-off but definitely win hearts. 🎄 This year, we’re embracing the perfectly imperfect joy of Christmas Chaos Cakes — fun, creative bakes that celebrate flavour, family

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Free Farm Animal Paper Bracelets for Kids

If your little ones love farm animals, they’re going to moo, oink, and baa with excitement over these Free Farm Animal Paper Bracelets! These adorable printable bracelets are a fun, hands-on craft for kids that encourages creativity, fine motor skills, and imaginative play. Perfect for farm-themed learning, birthday parties, or a rainy afternoon activity, these

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Winter Cut and Paste Craft – Fun Winter Activity for Kids

When the weather outside is chilly and the days are short, there’s nothing better than a cosy craft session indoors. Our Winter Cut and Paste Craft is the perfect low-prep activity to keep kids busy while encouraging creativity and fine motor skills. This printable pack includes everything little ones need to build their own winter

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Free Printable Five Senses Paper Watch

Teaching kids about their five senses has never been more fun! These free printable Five Senses Paper Watches are a hands-on activity that helps children learn about sight, smell, hearing, taste, and touch — all while crafting something they can actually wear and show off. This engaging printable is perfect for preschoolers and early primary

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Celebrating the Winter Solstice with Kids: Fun Activities, Books, and the Magic of the Season

The winter solstice occurs annually around December 21st or 22nd in the Northern Hemisphere, marking the shortest day and longest night of the year. In 2025, the winter solstice falls on Sun, 21 Dec 2025, 3:03 pm. This astronomical event signifies the moment when the Earth’s tilt is farthest from the sun, and from this point

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Top Stocking Filler Ideas for Teenage Boys: Practical, Fun, and Cool Gifts

I have two boys so I know that finding the perfect stocking fillers for teenage boys can feel like a challenge, but with a little creativity, you can create a stocking that’s packed with thoughtful and fun surprises. Whether they’re into gaming, grooming, or snacks, there’s something for every teenage boy on this list. These

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