It’s amazing to me that in this day and age of seriously hi-tech gadgets, computers and kids toys that do pretty much everything but clean their room for them, Lego Duplo is as popular as ever. But it thrills me. It doesn’t light up. It doesn’t make a sound. And it doesn’t require batteries. Yet it mesmerises the tiniest of tots through to the biggest of children (I won’t name names but I know grown men still addicted to the stuff). That it, quite simply, encourages the use of one’s imagination makes it one of the longest-standing, best loved toys … Continued

Dubai gets an awful lot of coverage as being the most family-friendly of the United Arab Emirates and no one doubts the insane levels of luxury that can be found once off the plane, but Abu Dhabi shouldn’t be overlooked when heading into the Arabian Gulf. It might not have the reputation for hotels, kids’ activities and swimming pools that Dubai boasts, but it has plenty to offer and its latest opening gives one more reason than ever to try it on for size. Anantara Hotels, Resorts & Spas’ newest Abu Dhabi island hideaway, Anantara Sir Bani Yas Island Al Sahel … Continued

Paris… the epitome of romance, of glamour, of fashion. Not exactly the first place you might associate with a toddler-friendly weekend away. But after a trip with my own 19-month-old, I discovered that the French capital is actually a great place to holiday with kids. Even after half a dozen pre-baby visits exploring the city, I got a completely new look at Paris – including an unexpectedly soft side to Parisians when confronted by a baby. Here are my top five spots to visit with a toddler. The supercharged park Carousels, crepes, farm animals, a puppet theatre and a playground … Continued

So, it won’t surprise you to learn that I’m not personally a rugby lover, but I am a fan of luxury hotels and anything that entertains and educates children. Which is why I thought the new “Rugbytots” program at The Residence Mauritius this summer was such a wonderful idea. From August 10th – 23rd, children aged from 2 – 7 years of age can learn basic rugby skills such as running with the ball, catching, kicking and passing. Parents can even join in with the weekly family session too and, being Mauritius, this can all be done in the glorious sunshine with … Continued

When you tell people that you’ve been to a baby spa, the usual response is ‘ahhh how nice, someone looks after the little one while you get spoilt’. This presumption that the mother (you know – the one that hasn’t had a full nights sleep for however long and cowers under a body full of aches and pains) gets some R ‘n R is unsurprising, but utterly false. Nope, Baby Spa is exactly what it says on the tin: it’s a spa experience for babies. Scepticism aside, Baby Spa is a very pleasant experience, lovely, soft, and welcoming. I don’t … Continued