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.

Free Printable Halloween Cards to Colour: Fun for Kids

Looking for a fun and simple Halloween craft for kids? These free printable Halloween cards are perfect for colouring and customising at home or in the classroom. Whether you need a last-minute Halloween card, a party activity, or just a spooky craft project, these cards are easy, affordable, and lots of fun. I have gone

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October Could‑Do List: Family Activities, Festivals & Craft Ideas

October is a month of brilliant contrasts in the UK—crisp mornings and cosy evenings, harvest abundance and spooky fun. After the first term of school, kids are ready for a break, and the October half‑term gives families a chance to explore museums, go on adventures or simply slow down and enjoy autumn. Just like September’s

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Free Autumn Bookmarks to Colour

Autumn, where I live means cooler winds off the North Sea, crunchy leaves underfoot and that irresistible urge to curl up with a good book. To make reading season even cosier, I’ve put together a printable set of 24 autumn-themed bookmarks you can colour yourself. Whether you’re making a craft afternoon with your children or

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50+ Kids’ Lunch Ideas: Easy, Healthy & Packable School Lunches

Fun, filling, and fuss-free lunches for school, home, or on the go! Whether you’re packing a lunchbox for school, prepping a quick meal at home, or need cold lunch ideas that won’t get sent home untouched, this list of kid-friendly lunch ideas has you covered. Packed with protein, dairy, fruit, veg, and snackable favourites, this

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Ring in the New Year with a Fun and Educational Color-by-Rhythm Activity

Our Free New Year Color-by-Rhythm Printable Pack has been updated for 2026. The New Year is a perfect time for fun, creativity, and a little bit of learning! Our New Year Color by Rhythm Printable combines all three, offering kids a chance to celebrate while engaging their artistic and musical skills. What is Color by

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Create Stunning Pop-Up Firework Craft – Perfect for New Year, Diwali, Bonfire Night, or 4th of July Celebrations!

This pop-up firework craft has been updated for New Year and to welcome in 2026. Celebrate with a bang by making your very own Pop-Up Firework Craft! This versatile craft is perfect for kids and adults alike, combining creativity with the festive spirit of New Year, Bonfire Night, Diwali, or the 4th July. These pop-up

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