Jen Walshaw | Mum In The Madhouse

2026 Colouring Calendar!

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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 Summer Colouring Bookmarks

Free Summer Coloring Bookmarks – Fun and Printable Designs

These free summer colouring bookmarks will really brighten up any summer reading that you do.  They are perfect for any summer reading program and are a fun addition to a rainy summer day.  They would make the perfect addition to any book you might gift too. I commissioned one of my favourite illustrators Leslieanne from Leslieanne Made It to design

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Could Do List for July – Fun, Family-Friendly Ideas to Celebrate Summer

July brings longer days, school holidays, and plenty of opportunities to slow down and enjoy time together. Whether you’re planning big adventures or looking for small moments of joy, this Could Do List is filled with simple, fun, and meaningful things you could do as a family — no pressure, just inspiration. From quirky celebration

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DIY Frozen Drink Station with the Ninja Slushi – Keep Kids Cool & Hydrated This Spring and Summer!

As the days grow warmer and the garden calls, there’s nothing better than keeping the kids refreshed with a fun and fruity frozen treat. Whether it’s a weekend BBQ, a half-term hangout, or a school holiday garden party, a DIY Frozen Drink Station using the Ninja Slushi is the ultimate way to combine hydration with

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10 Creative Personalized Mouse Pad Ideas for Kids’ Study Spaces

Creating a personalized study space for your child fosters creativity, focus, and a sense of ownership over their learning environment. One simple yet powerful way to add a personal touch is through customised accessories – and starting with a kids’ custom mouse pads is a perfect start. By incorporating personalised mouse pads featuring their favorite

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How to make your baby’s first holiday extra special

It’s the beginning of a new chapter in your life: your baby’s first holiday! This is a momentous occasion that deserves to be celebrated and cherished. It’s an opportunity to build early family traditions, capture special memories, and share the joy of discovery with your little one. But how can you make this first holiday

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