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.

6 Ways Car Servicing in Lincoln Keeps Mums Stress-Free on Morning School Runs

parenting / By

Lincoln is a city where many families rely on their cars every day. From residential streets and school zones to busy commuter routes and local roads, driving plays a major role in managing daily routines. For parents, particularly mums handling regular school runs, having a car that is safe, reliable, and well maintained is essential. […]

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A Simple Sunday Reset for All the Family (That Actually Works)

cleaning, organisation, parenting / By

By the time Sunday afternoon rolls around, our house usually tells the story of the week just gone — school bags dumped by the door, toys migrating into every room, and that general feeling that things are starting to spiral. Over the years, I’ve learned that the best way to avoid a stressful Monday isn’t

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Four Free Inspirational Quote Bookmarks to Colour

bookmarks, crafts, Free Printables, Screen Free, Screen Free / By

There’s something quietly magical about slipping a handmade bookmark into a well-loved book — especially one carrying a tiny message of encouragement. And today we’ve got just the thing: four free inspirational quote bookmarks to colour, ready to brighten reading time for kids and grown-ups alike. These cheerful designs are a free resource featuring bold,

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Children’s Craft Showcase – How to make Paper Flowers

1 Comment / childrens craft, flowers, paper flowers / By

Paper flowers are a classic children’s craft for a reason. They’re colourful, flexible, low-cost, and endlessly adaptable for different ages and abilities. Whether you’re crafting at the kitchen table with preschoolers, planning a calm afternoon activity, or looking for a creative classroom project, paper flowers are a brilliant go-to. In this children’s craft showcase, we’re

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Free Happy New Year Activity Book for Kids (Ages 4–8)

Free Printables, New Year, New Year, Screen Free, Winter, Winter / By

Celebrate the New Year with fun, creativity, and learning with this Free Happy New Year Activity Book for Kids 🎉 Perfect for keeping little ones entertained during the winter break, this printable activity book is packed full of engaging, age-appropriate activities designed especially for preschoolers and early primary-aged children. Whether you’re welcoming the New Year

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