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.

A Creative Way to Keep Kids Busy: Custom Colouring Pages with Colomio

If you are anything like me, you’ll know that keeping children entertained – especially on rainy days or during school holidays – often requires a little creativity. Over the years we’ve tried everything from simple crafts to baking afternoons and printable activities. One thing that always works in our house is colouring. It’s simple, calming

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Planning a Staycation When Someone in the Family Uses a Wheelchair

Family holidays often require careful planning, but when someone uses a wheelchair, the logistics become more involved. Transport is frequently the first hurdle. Standard vehicles rarely accommodate wheelchairs safely, and public transport can present accessibility challenges that turn simple journeys into stressful ordeals. For many families, this means staycations can seem difficult before they have

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Beyond Suction: Why Vibration and Heat Are Essential for Comfort Pumping

Pumping breast milk is often framed purely around suction levels, suction patterns, and flange fit—but there’s more to a comfortable and effective pumping experience than suction alone. For many mothers, the real difference between a frustrating session and one that feels smooth and productive comes down to comfort pumping, where warmth and gentle motion work

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DIY Daffodil Clay Pots or Candle Holders

DIY Daffodil Clay Pots or Candle Holders | Creative Spring Crafts

These DIY daffodil clay pots were so fun to make, and even better, they double up as candle holders.  Mini suggested making these as he loved making our heart-shaped ring dishes.  We love using clay; it is such a tactile material and perfect for all ages. DIY Daffodil Clay Pots or Candle Holders These Daffodil clay

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March Could Do List – Embrace the Changing Seasons!

March is a time of transition, as we shake off the winter blues and welcome the longer, lighter days. Spring is just around the corner, bringing fresh starts, new blooms, and plenty of opportunities to enjoy simple pleasures. This March Could Do List for 2026 is packed with seasonal ideas, awareness days, and gentle prompts

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Creative Paper Project Guides for Easy Skill Building

Creating something beautiful from just a sheet of paper might seem daunting at first, but engaging in paper projects can boost your creativity and confidence. Whether you’re looking to impress your friends or create something special for a school project, mastering skills through fun paper projects is a great way to start. Imagine turning simple

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How to Build Confidence When You’re Responsible for a Team

Stepping into a role where others rely on you can feel like a heavy load at first. People’s expectations of you shift quickly. Colleagues look to you for direction, and small decisions suddenly carry more weight. Nobody grows in confidence does not appear overnight. Confidence develops through practice, clear thinking, and consistent action. Some people

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Kindness Writing Prompts Printable for Kids

Helping children understand kindness doesn’t have to be complicated. Sometimes, the simplest activities spark the most meaningful conversations. That’s exactly why I love this Kindness Writing Prompts Printable – it combines creativity, writing, and emotional learning in a way that feels fun rather than forced. Whether you’re a parent, teacher, or home educator, this printable

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