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.

Stylish but Practical: Volkswagen Transporter Alloy Wheels That Suit Family Vans

parenting / By

When upgrading a family van, functionality should be the main focus, but that doesn’t mean style has to be compromised. Volkswagen Transporter alloy wheels offer the perfect blend of style, practicality, and performance, making them an excellent choice for families looking for a van that is both dependable and visually appealing. With the right alloy […]

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How to Make a 3D Dog Origami Craft

activities for children, childrens craft, craft, crafts, Free Printables, Screen Free / By

If your kids love dogs as much as mine do, they’ll go barking mad for this adorable 3D Dog Origami Craft! It’s a brilliant hands-on activity that combines creativity, fine motor skills, and the joy of folding paper into something magical. This fun printable craft is perfect for rainy afternoons, pet-themed parties, or even as

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Free Gnome Cone Hats Printable Craft for Kids

Christmas, Christmas Crafts, Christmas Printables, Free Printables / By

Looking for a fun and festive craft to keep little hands busy this winter? Our Free Gnome Cone Hats Printable is the perfect low-prep activity for Christmas! These adorable paper gnome cones are easy to make, fun to colour, and look brilliant as table decorations, ornaments, or even little gift holders. 🎨 What You’ll Need

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Hands-On Fun with Tinkerer Box: Our Repeating Crossbow Build Review

activities for children, Gift Guides, Science / By

We’re always on the lookout for creative, hands-on activities that keep the kids engaged, curious, and learning — and our latest find, Tinkerer Box, ticked every single box! We recently made the Repeating Crossbow, and it was such a fun and engaging build from start to finish. The instructions were clear and easy to follow,

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How to Make Beautiful Christmas Sheet Music Angels – A Delicate DIY Ornament

Christmas, Christmas Crafts, christmas decorations, Christmas Printables, crafts, Free Printables / By

There’s something magical about turning something old into something new – and these Christmas sheet music angels do exactly that. Using just a few simple materials and a little creativity, you can transform vintage sheet music into delicate, timeless ornaments that will look stunning on your tree or make thoughtful, handmade gifts. Whether you’re a

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How Do Nursing Bras Work: A Practical Guide for New Moms

Being Mum - baby, parenting, pregnancy / By

Throughout pregnancy and motherhood, the body undergoes remarkable changes, and one of the most notable changes is the development of the breasts. When milk secretion occurs, most women find out quite soon that their old bras that they used before pregnancy are not suitable for them in terms of comfort, adaptability, and accessibility for breastfeeding.

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Could Do November: Family Activities, Festivals & Craft Ideas

autumn, Autumn Crafts, Autumn Printables, Autumn/Fall, Could Do List, Free Printables / By

November often feels like a bridge between the golden autumn days of October and the festive sparkle of December. School is in full swing, nights draw in earlier and there’s a chill in the air.  This could‑do list isn’t about pressure – it’s about giving your family a handful of ideas to choose from. Pick

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