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.

Safe Sharenting: Protecting Your Kids Online

In the age of social media, sharing moments of your child’s life online has become a popular activity among parents. This practice, known as sharenting, can seem harmless, but it comes with significant risks. From privacy concerns to the long-term consequences of a digital footprint, it’s crucial for parents to understand the potential dangers of […]

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6 Printable Christmas Lanterns – A Festive DIY Craft

If you’re looking for a creative and beautiful way to bring festive magic into your home, these 6 Printable Christmas Lanterns are perfect! They’re simple to make, kid-friendly, and add a cosy, glowing charm to your holiday decor. Whether you’re crafting with the family or adding a handmade touch to your Christmas decorations, these paper

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Free Printable Animal Winter Village – A Fun Winter Craft for Kids

Winter is the perfect time for cosy crafts, and this Free Printable Animal Winter Village is a delightful activity that your whole family will love. Create your very own magical village filled with adorable woodland animals and cosy cottages, all ready to brave the snowy season! Not only is this craft perfect for kids of

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Upcycling Your Christingle: Creative Ways to Repurpose Your Oranges

Upcycling Your Christingle is a paid collaborative post with The Children’s Society. After celebrating the meaningful Christingle service or having your own at home, you may find yourself wondering what to do with those leftover oranges. Instead of throwing them away, why not upcycle them into something useful, beautiful, or delicious? Whether you’re organizing group

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DIY Simple Cardboard Christmas Trees – Sustainable and Festive Craft

Christmas is the perfect time for creativity and crafting, and what better way to celebrate than with an upcycling project? These DIY cardboard Christmas trees are a fun, eco-friendly way to reuse old cardboard boxes while adding a festive touch to your home. Whether you’re crafting with kids or just looking for a simple way

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10 Essential Things to Do Before Booking Your First Family Ski Holiday

Planning your first family ski holiday is an exciting adventure, but it can feel overwhelming if you’re new to skiing. Before booking, take some time to prepare and ensure you make the right choices for a fun and stress-free experience. Here’s a checklist of 10 essential things to do before you lock in those holiday

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Top 10 Family Cruises for 2025: Best Vacations for All Ages

Are you planning a family vacation for 2025? There’s no better way to create lasting memories than on a cruise designed with families in mind. From thrilling water slides and adventure zones to relaxing pools and gourmet dining, family cruises offer something for everyone—whether you are travelling with toddlers, teens, or grandparents. There are so

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