First up, a big shout out to all the mums and dads who kept their kids happy, safe and hydrated during the heatwave! Whilst it was lovely to enjoy the sunshine, it did make bedtimes pretty trying, and looking after exhausted little ones is never easy.
Don't know about you, but I'm actually enjoying a semblance of normality this week - back to school and work, back to spring temperatures, back to better rest and relaxation.
Free Family Fun in Birmingham
It's been devastating to hear of the open water deaths that have happened across the country. Did you know that we have a lifesaving club that's currently meeting at Droitwich Lido? Well worth exploring to keep your kids safe.
This week, we've been inside a very inspirational Birmingham school which is running Friday Markets giving out free food to prevent the kids from going hungry over the weekend. They even invite local homeless people to get involved. The executive headteacher grew up in poverty with parents who often 'went without' so he and his brother could eat. He says it 'breaks his heart' to see families still struggling today and is determined to make a difference.
Moseley Road Baths Restoration
We're delighted to see that Brum's oldest swimming baths have been awarded £9.2m for a full restoration. The plans for Moseley Road Baths are amazing.
My friend Dayna took her family to check out the Peppa Pig Space Adventure at Birmingham NEC and they had a great time. The good news is that this interactive experience runs right through to November so there's plenty of time to check it out.
Arrow Valley Country Park
As you probably know, I'm always on the lookout for free things to do with the kids. So, I was delighted to discover more about Arrow Valley Country Park, a 900‑acre park in Redditch that's centred around a 27‑acre lake. It has a cafe with lakeside views, a river meandering through it and a playground. You can even hire a swan pedalo or a little rowing boat to enjoy the water.
Kitchen Table Business Spotlight
As part of our Brummie Mummies Kitchen Table Business series, we've been talking to a lovely mum from Northfield who switched her career as a chartered accountant to create a 'welcoming space' for families through a TinyTalk franchise. Like many of us, Julie Hetherington felt 'isolated and overwhelmed' as a new parent and wanted to reach out to others. Over the past 16 years, she has worked with more than 1,500 families to help boost positive mental health, which is a lovely success story. Get in touch to share your Kitchen Table Business by sending me a DM via the Brummie Mummies Facebook or Instagram pages.
Summer Festivals and Deals
And I have a round-up of all the best free festivals happening in and around Brum throughout the rest of the year, including Birmingham Weekender. Get them in your diary now so you don't miss out. Also, Alton Towers has launched a good deal on family breaks. They start from just £42 per person and include rides, waterpark and mini golf access.
Have a great week - stay safe and happy!
