Driving Instructor Provides Advice On Most Common Driving Test Faults

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The road to passing a driving test is a major milestone in life, often filled with excitement and tension (in equal measures) for both the learner driver and their parents. To alleviate any pre-test stress, personalised number plate supplier Regtransfers have joined forces with Sophie Stuchfield, an expert driving instructor. With a wealth of experience spanning 15 years of teaching and known as @TheOnlineDrivingInstructor online, Sophie shares essential tips on the most frequent errors in UK driving tests over the last decade.

Observation at Junctions

Sophie emphasises the need for learners to carry out detailed observation at junctions - which has come up as the top error seen in tests over the last ten years. “If you don’t pay close attention to road markings or road signs, you may be completely unaware that you are approaching a junction,” she warns.

She explains that an examiner may need to intervene in these scenarios, “An examiner may have to step in verbally or engage the dual control brake to manage the vehicle’s speed or bring it to a stop.”

Sophie also highlights the importance of carrying out proper checks when leaving a junction: “A single glance is inadequate; confirming that the road is clear is crucial before joining it.”

Mirror Use During Direction Changes

Checking mirrors before signaling, turning, or changing speed is an important aspect of the test. The "Mirror-Signal-Manoeuvre" sequence should be instinctive for learners by the time they sit their test, though it can be easily overlooked in the moment.

Sophie advises, "Particularly, pay attention to your wing mirrors when changing lanes or navigating around obstacles. Ensure you check the correct wing mirror depending on the direction you're moving." She associates frequent errors in mirror usage with the pressures of being assessed, where learners may lose focus on natural hazard management.

Right-Hand Turns at Junctions

Sophie advises maintaining proper lane discipline for right-hand turns at junctions. "You should avoid cutting the corner when turning into a road on your right, even if the junction is completely clear of other road users. You should be using correct positioning at all times."

She further explains the importance of proper positioning: "Approaching the turn, if there is no oncoming traffic, drivers will often drift to the wrong side of the road before turning. It’s really important to stay on your side of the road until you reach your point of turn".

Steering Control

Sophie, drawing from her extensive teaching background, acknowledges that steering challenges, like many test difficulties, often originate from nerves.

“Test nerves can lead to tension in the body, causing us to stiffen up,” Sophie notes. “This, coupled with the mistaken belief that crossing arms while steering is not allowed, often results in rigid steering and ineffective hand manoeuvres.”

In fact, Sophie, along with other instructors, promotes flexible steering techniques, provided they maintain vehicle control: "Crossing your arms can sometimes be necessary for swift steering responses."

Practical Tips For Buying A Used Car

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If you are considering buying a used car, then you are not alone. In 2022, over 36 million used cars were sold through private-party and dealership channels, which is no surprise since it is the easiest way to save money on a vehicle purchase. New cars depreciate quickly as soon as you drive them off the showroom, losing a significant portion of their value in the first few years. When you buy a used car, the previous owner bears the brunt of the depreciation, and you benefit by paying far less than the original owner. This article highlights the processes involved in purchasing a used car. 

1. Set a car-buying budget you can afford 

Determining your budget for purchasing a used vehicle involves more than just looking for a car, truck, or SUV with a monthly payment that fits your budget. You must consider the overall cost of ownership, including the cost of interest on the car loan, insurance, parking fees, and maintenance. Striking a balance between the purchase price and the cost of ownership is essential. While buying an older vehicle may seem like an excellent way to save money, it also increases the likelihood of costly repairs. You don’t want to be stuck with a car that requires frequent fixing, which may result in missing an important meeting or weekend getaway. 

Thankfully, there are more resources available today than ever before for used car buyers to learn about repair costs, recurring problems, and reliability. Many review websites provide valuable information on certified pre-owned warranty coverage, average costs for common repairs, and predicted reliability ratings. Additionally, you can also check dedicated owners’ platforms to learn about the common issues and problems with specific car models. Additionally, it is important to consider the cost of car insurance, as prices can vary significantly based on the vehicle model you choose. 

2. Check the vehicle history report 

It is crucial to obtain a vehicle history report unless you are purchasing the car from someone you trust, like a family member or a close friend. Several online companies like Experian AutoCheck can give you this information, and they can provide essential details about the car’s history. These reports can reveal if it has a salvage title, which means it was deemed a total loss by an insurance company, or if the odometer has been rolled back. To obtain this information, you will need the car’s vehicle identification number (VIN). In some cases, you may only need the vehicle’s license plate number. Almost all major car dealers offer these statement reports for free if they have the vehicle in their inventory. It is important to get a vehicle history report as soon as possible because you will want to know about any issues before making a purchase. Once the sale has been completed, you may choose to change the number plates for something more personal. You can find private number plates for sale online or from accredited dealers in your area. 

3. Get in touch with the seller 

Before rushing to see your prospective car, it's a good idea to contact the seller first. This will allow you to form a cordial relationship and confirm the information provided about the vehicle. You can ask the sellers about the reason for selling the car and whether there are any mechanical issues. Similarly, if you're buying from a dealer, a phone call or text message can help confirm that the vehicle is still available for purchase.

When you communicate with the seller, they might reveal some information that wasn't included in the ad, which could influence your decision to buy the car. To ensure that you don't miss any critical information, consider going through a used car questionnaire as a reminder of what to ask. While it may be tempting to negotiate the price before seeing the car, it's better to wait. Once you inspect it, you can base your offer on its actual condition.

4. Take a test drive 

Before taking the car for a spin, it is crucial to ensure that the vehicle is the right fit for you. Check if the seats are comfortable, the controls are easy to use, and the car’s size suits your needs. While test driving, keep an eye out for any visible smoke from the exhaust, unusual vibrations, or burning fluid odours. After the drive, inspect underneath the car for any greasy leask. Keep in mind that there might be a clear water pool underneath if the air conditioning was on, which is normal.

Essential Summer Holiday Preparation - 25 Ways to Ensure You are Ready

We've booked our summer holiday already. The kids are really excited and I'm on countdown but we are feeling very well prepared so I thought I'd share with you the things I do to ensure I am fully ready for my family's summer holiday.

Once you've booked the holiday itself it would be easy to just sit back and think that you're sorted but there any many more things you can be doing in advance that will help you save money and ensure that your vacation goes really well.

At Least 3 Months in Advance

1.  Check your Passport and if you need a Visa
Depending on where you are travelling to will dictate whether you need a visa or not. This Gov.uk site is the best place to start. Also make sure you check your expiry date on your passport as travel to some countries will require you to have at least 6 months left on your passport once you re-enter the UK.

2.  Do you need any Vaccinations?
Country-specific information and advice is published by the National Travel Health Network and Centre on the TravelHealthPro website, so make sure you check their about health and vaccination information relevant to the country you are visiting.

Top 7 Unforgettable Experiences on a UK Forest Holiday

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From ancient woodlands to picturesque landscapes, the UK offers a diverse range of forest getaways, perfect for your next break. Forest retreats UK not only brings a wealth of mental and physical health benefits, but they also provide adventures and experiences, unlike any other type of getaway.

Here are seven must-do activities to make the most of your UK forest holiday:

1. Explore ancient woodlands

One of the unique charms of a UK forest holiday is the chance to explore ancient woodlands. Places like the New Forest in Hampshire and Sherwood Forest in Nottinghamshire are perfect examples of forests that blend adventure with history. Take leisurely walks, breathe in the crisp air, and immerse yourself in the history that permeates these age-old woods.

2. Adventure into the treetops

Take your forest holiday to new heights by exploring the trees from a new perspective. Many forest destinations in the UK offer thrilling tree-top adventures and canopy walks. From treetop adventures to high rope courses and zip lines – the UK offers some of the most exciting forest adventures.

3. Wildlife watching

The UK's forests are filled with diverse wildlife, making them an ideal destination for nature lovers. Pack a pair of binoculars and keep your eyes peeled for the likes of deer, red squirrels, and a variety of bird species. Some forests are known for their exceptional wildlife habitats, such as those in the Isle of Wight, renowned for sightings of the endangered red squirrels.

Why not join guided tours or wander quietly through the woods to increase your chances of spotting these unique creatures?

Top Tips for Dressing Kids for Winter Activities

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If you want to take your children on a winter adventure, you’re probably thinking about what clothing they’ll need. This piece explores winter dressing guidelines, ensuring they’re not too hot or chilly but just right—whether going for a ski trip, skating, the park or shopping with you.

 

Appropriate Number of Layers

While most people know that layering clothes is a good idea when preparing for children, not many know that too much might have adverse effects. Since they prefer their children to be warm rather than cold, many parents dress them in as many layers as possible.

However, your kid will get colder than usual if they overheat since they will begin to sweat and make their base layer wet. Using youth thermals as a base layer is an additional solution to this issue, in addition to avoiding going overboard with the layers. Without piling on too many layers, these garments will assist in wicking away sweating from their skin, keeping them dry and cozy.

 

Avoid Cotton

Your children’s winter clothing should ideally not include any cotton materials. While this material is excellent for keeping people warm, it performs best when dry. When it becomes wet, it becomes colder for people who use it. As you may already know, cotton absorbs sweating even in cold and dry weather while wearing jeans or cotton trousers in the rain or snow. It’s advisable to stay away from cotton entirely in the winter. Eliminating the cotton shouldn’t be an issue with the abundance of stylish and adorable fleece choices.

 

Think About Your Kid’s Activity Level

For instance, if your children accompany you on a cold-weather trip, they will continually create heat. Thus, less puffy, less bulky coats and trousers are appropriate. This varies in stop-and-go circumstances, such as on a sledging hill, when plodding upward alternates with standing in line and scooting down. In such cases, thicker insulation will aid in maintaining warmth during downtimes.

 

Protect Their Extremities

The areas of your child’s body most vulnerable to frostbite and cold exposure include the head, hands, face, ears, and feet. In a way, frostbite is like getting burned in the winter. It results in damaging the skin and numbness. Children’s skin is particularly susceptible to the cold, so be cautious around their extremities. The exposed body parts must be covered since they are most vulnerable to frostbite. Equip them with a snowsuit, waterproof boots, cozy insulated hats, neck guards, toasty socks, and suitable moisture-resistant gloves. Waterproof materials are always the best option.

Silent Struggles: How Addiction Echoes Through Family Relationships

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Today, let's dive into a topic that often lurks in the shadows but deserves our attention – the ripple effect of prescription drug addiction on family dynamics. In this post I aim to shed light on the subtle yet profound ways addiction to prescription drugs can disrupt family relationships, but also how seeking professional help can be life-changing.

We'll be exploring the unspoken challenges faced by family members, teaching you about effective communication, support systems, and the journey towards rebuilding connections ruined by addiction. Oh, and as the festive season approaches, we'll touch upon how these struggles can be amplified during Christmas.

 

The Ripple Effect of Prescription Drug Addiction

Prescription drug addiction isn't just the person’s struggle; it's a family affair. The ripple effect of this silent epidemic can be felt in every corner of a home, echoing through relationships in ways that aren't always obvious. Understanding these dynamics is the first step toward healing and rebuilding.

 

Unspoken Challenges: A Family's Dilemma

When a family member is caught in the web of prescription drug addiction, lots of challenges emerge. The most significant, perhaps, is the silence that surrounds the issue. Families often grapple with unspoken fears, guilt, and shame, creating an atmosphere of secrecy that can strain relationships to breaking point.

 

The Communication Conundrum

Effective communication is the bedrock of healthy relationships, but addiction can throw a spanner in the works. Family members may tiptoe around the issue, afraid to confront the reality or inadvertently enabling the addictive behaviour. It becomes a silent dance where words are carefully chosen, and the truth becomes a casualty.

 

Breaking the Silence: Open Dialogue

The antidote to the communication conundrum is open dialogue. It's time to break the silence and create a safe space for family members to express their concerns, fears, and hopes. This doesn't mean casting blame but rather fostering an environment of understanding and support. Acknowledge the issue and encourage everyone to voice their feelings.

 
Support Systems: The Backbone of Recovery

Addiction thrives in isolation, and breaking free from its clutches often requires a support system. Families need to come together, not just to address the addiction but to provide emotional support for each member. This support extends beyond the individual struggling with addiction to include everyone affected by its reach.

 

Professional Guidance: A Beacon in the Dark

Seeking professional guidance is a crucial step in navigating the complex landscape of addiction to prescription drugs and the road to recovery. Therapists, support groups, and addiction specialists can offer insights, coping mechanisms, and a roadmap toward recovery. A united family front, armed with professional assistance, becomes a formidable force against the silent foe.

The Road To Savings: Tips For Assisting Your Parents In Finding The Perfect Car Deal

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Finding the right car deal for your aging parents can be a challenge. With numerous factors to consider, from budget to safety, this process requires careful planning and informed decision-making. This article aims to guide you through various aspects of purchasing a car that suits the needs and preferences of senior drivers.

 

Safety First: Key Features to Look for in a Senior-Friendly Car

Safety should be a top priority when selecting a vehicle for an elderly driver. Look for cars with advanced safety features such as rear-view cameras, blind-spot monitoring, automatic emergency braking, and easy-to-read dashboards. These features not only enhance safety but also provide peace of mind for both the senior driver and their family members.

 

Budgeting Basics for Seniors: Planning for an Affordable Car Purchase

Budgeting is the cornerstone of any major purchase, especially for seniors who may be on a fixed income. It’s crucial to determine a realistic budget that includes not just the purchase price, but also ongoing costs like fuel, maintenance, and insurance. Encourage your parents to explore financing options if necessary, but also to consider the long-term financial implications of their purchase.

 

Insurance Insights: Choosing the Right Coverage for Elderly Drivers

Insurance is another critical aspect to consider. It’s essential to find a policy that offers comprehensive coverage at a reasonable cost. Shop around and compare quotes from different insurers. Also, inquire about discounts that may apply to seniors, such as reduced rates for low-mileage drivers or those who have taken a defensive driving course.

 

Why Are You Feeling So Tired?

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It’s normal to feel tired some of the time, and when you do feel a little sleepy, there’s usually a good reason for it. You might not have gone to bed early enough, or perhaps you had a particularly strenuous day. No matter what, a good night’s sleep and you’ll generally feel better. 

What if you don’t, though? What if you wake up feeling just as tired as when you went to sleep? The danger is that this can become something we get used to, so we just think of it as the usual thing without wondering if there’s an underlying cause, but the fact is that constant tiredness isn’t right and shouldn’t be normalised. There will be a reason behind it, and working out what that reason is means you can fix the issue. Read on to find out more. 

 

You Don’t Get Enough Sleep

Let’s start with the most obvious reason for being tired all the time and the one that’s easiest to fix - you don’t get enough sleep. Although everyone is different, most people will need between seven and nine hours of sleep each night, and if you’re getting significantly less than that, it’s sure to account for your constant lethargy, especially if you’ve got a busy life during your waking hours. 

The issue is that lack of sleep isn’t just something that makes you feel tired; there are other consequences too. Some of the most serious include obesity, type 2 diabetes, heart problems, and stress. 

The best way to solve the issue is to know what time you have to get up in the morning and work backwards from there so you know what time you have to go to bed. If you’re having trouble getting to sleep (or staying asleep) then it’s worth discussing it with your doctor as they might have some helpful advice. 

You’re Lacking Vitamin B12

We’ve gone from a fairly vague idea of how much sleep you need to something a lot more specific; your potential lack of vitamin B12. When you have enough B12 in your diet, you’ll feel energised and awake, so a lack of it means the opposite; you’ll constantly feel tired. 

As with many things, eating a better diet can solve the issue, and ensuring that there’s plenty of vitamin B12 included in that healthy diet is a wise move. You can get this vitamin from fruit, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains, so it should be easy to get enough of it. If not, however, you can use supplements to help boost your intake. 

You Don’t Drink Enough Water

Water is such a great thing for the human body and it’s so easy to get into your daily routine - your body literally tells you when it needs more - that it shouldn’t be a surprise to know that without enough water, things start to go wrong, and among the many things that can go wrong is the fact that you won’t have any energy and you’ll feel tired. 

The best thing to do is to have a reusable water bottle with you at all times, and make sure you sip from it regularly - that’s better than chugging a load of water in one go and then forgetting to drink for another few hours. Try to make it your mission to drink a certain amount each day and gradually increase your intake, and you should feel a lot more awake.

Winter is Coming: Tips for getting your Garden Ready

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November may be at the end of Autumn and even heading into Winter but there is still time to get all sorts of gardening jobs done before the frost arrives and the garden becomes pretty dormant for winter. This year it has been very mild down here in the South of England and this means there is even still time to plant some tulip, daffodil, and crocus bulbs ready for the spring. I always think there is something really joyous about seeing those green shoots early in the year, they make me feel like there is hope after the dark mornings and dreary weather. 

Rake the Leaves

Hopefully, if you have a garden with plenty of trees you've been keeping on top of this job. All those leaves are such a rich source of nutrients to add to our compost pile. First, keep them in a separate pile or store in a container or bag, but make sure there are holes as the oxygen is needed to help the leaves break down into mould. Once that has happened you can add them to your compost or use as mulch.

Soil Maintenance

Now is your last chance to prepare your soil before winter really sets in. Turn the earth over whilst there is still some heat in the soil and make sure you have removed any annuals, and pruned your perennials right back to protect them for next spring. Make sure that any bar earth is protected with a good layer of compost, mulch or even plastic sheeting. 

Think Ahead

As the garden goes to sleep, the gardener doesn't. Now is the time to plan out how you want the garden to look next year. Place your order for Spring planted bulbs and any berry trees that you require. Draw out a sketch of how you'd like your garden to look and this will help you to know how many plants or bulbs to order.

Ideas for an Adventure Seeking Holiday in the Caribbean

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If you're a regular thrill seeker, you have probably been there and done that with most of the adventure activities in Europe, so now may be the perfect time to spread your wings, or find your sea legs to be more accurate and head out to the Caribbean for a luxury cruise of multiple islands.  

There is so much adventure to be pursued in the Caribbean, all amongst the absolute beauty of the white sandy beaches and deep turquoise waters. I want to share with you a few ideas for amazing cruise holidays with bags of adventure thrown in.

Royal Caribbean

Royal Caribbean is the second-best cruise line for mega-ships (with over 4000 passengers) as voted by the readers of Conde Nast, so you know you can't go wrong when you choose to cruise with them. Their liners cater to all kinds of travellers but Cruise Critic suggests they are particularly good for first-time family cruisers with their ultimate family suites having in-room slides, table tennis, life-size Connect-four, and a personal gaming room. That all sounds pretty darn fun to me. Add to that the SeaPlex, which is the largest indoor sports and entertainment complex at sea, with attractions ranging from roller skating and video gaming to a circus school, complete with flying trapeze classes. 

You can sail for as little as two nights, but for a full quota of thrills and fun, around nine nights is perfect and then you can choose to travel across the western, southern, or eastern Caribbean. The choice really is yours!

Sailing with Royal Caribbean also means you get to stop at CocoCay, a private island in the Bahamas and there is so much to do there. You could experience the island from 450 meters in the air as you take a balloon ride, enjoy the thrills of the waterpark, which boosts Daredevil's Peak, the tallest slide in North America, or even zipline across the blue, blue sky. 

Seville Splendors: A Family Adventure in Spain's Vibrant City

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Seville, the heart of Andalusia in southern Spain, is a city steeped in history, culture, and a vibrant way of life. With its stunning architecture, lively flamenco performances, and mouthwatering cuisine, Seville is an ideal destination for families seeking an enriching and memorable experience. In this guide, we'll explore the many splendours of Seville and how you can plan the perfect family adventure in this captivating Spanish city.

Planning Your Seville City Break

Choosing the Right Time to Visit

Seville enjoys a Mediterranean climate, which means mild winters and hot summers. To make the most of your family adventure, consider visiting during the spring or autumn months when the weather is pleasant, and the city is less crowded. Summer can be scorching, making outdoor activities less enjoyable, especially for young children.

Exploring Seville Vacation Packages

To streamline your trip planning, explore Seville vacation packages offered by various travel agencies. These packages often include accommodations, guided tours, and admission to popular attractions. It's an excellent way to ensure a hassle-free experience for the entire family.

Family-Friendly Accommodations

Choose accommodations that cater to families, such as hotels with family suites or vacation rentals with multiple bedrooms. Having a comfortable and spacious place to stay is essential for a relaxed and enjoyable trip. Look for options that provide amenities like swimming pools, childcare services, and easy access to public transportation.

Must-Visit Attractions for Families

Seville offers a wealth of family-friendly attractions that will captivate the imagination of both parents and children.

1. The Alcazar of Seville

Step into a fairytale by visiting the Alcazar, a stunning palace complex with enchanting gardens. The intricate architecture and lush greenery make it a magical place for kids to explore. Be sure to arrive early to avoid long queues.

2. Plaza de España

This magnificent square is a must-visit for its iconic semicircular building, bridges, and colourful ceramic tiles representing different regions of Spain. Take a leisurely stroll, rent a rowboat on the canal, or simply enjoy the breathtaking architecture.

3. Parque de Maria Luisa

Adjacent to Plaza de España, this park offers a relaxing oasis for families. Kids can run freely, and you can enjoy a picnic amidst beautiful gardens and fountains. Don't forget to visit the whimsical Plaza de América within the park.

4. Seville Aquarium

For a unique and educational experience, head to the Seville Aquarium. It's a great way for kids to learn about marine life and the importance of conservation. The interactive exhibits and underwater tunnel are sure to fascinate.

5. Isla Mágica

If your family craves adventure, spend a day at Isla Mágica, a theme park in Seville. With thrilling rides, water attractions, and entertaining shows, it's a fantastic place to create lasting memories with your children.

Cultural Experiences for All Ages

Seville is steeped in culture and history, and there are plenty of opportunities for your family to immerse yourselves in the local way of life.

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6. Flamenco Shows

Introduce your family to the magic of flamenco by attending a live performance. The passionate music, intricate dance moves, and colourful costumes will leave a lasting impression on all family members.

7. Cooking Classes

Learn to prepare traditional Spanish dishes as a family. Cooking classes in Seville often cater to children, making it an interactive and delicious experience for everyone. Bond over paella, tapas, and churros.

8. Horse-drawn Carriage Ride

Explore the historic city centre in style with a horse-drawn carriage ride. Children will delight in this unique mode of transportation while taking in the sights of Seville's charming streets.

Dining Delights

Spanish cuisine is renowned for its diverse flavours, and Seville is no exception. Embrace the local culinary scene with these family-friendly dining options.

9. Tapas Exploration

Introduce your family to the joy of tapas, small plates perfect for sharing. Head to local tapas bars and let everyone sample a variety of dishes, from patatas bravas to jamón ibérico.

10. Chocolaterías

Indulge your sweet tooth at Seville's chocolaterías, where you can enjoy churros dipped in thick, rich chocolate sauce. It's a favourite treat for kids and adults alike.

11. Family-friendly Restaurants

Seville offers numerous restaurants with kid-friendly menus and a relaxed atmosphere. Look for venues that offer paella, grilled meats, and other dishes that cater to various tastes.

A Taste of Seville's Festive Spirit

Seville is renowned for its vibrant festivals, and if your family's visit coincides with one of these celebrations, you're in for a treat. The Semana Santa (Holy Week) and Feria de Abril (April Fair) are two iconic events that offer a unique cultural experience. During Semana Santa, the city comes alive with processions, music, and religious fervour. Families can witness these moving events together, providing an opportunity for cultural understanding and reflection. Similarly, the Feria de Abril transforms Seville into a lively fairground filled with colourful tents, dancing, and traditional costumes. Children will love the fairground rides and the chance to immerse themselves in the vibrant atmosphere.

The Warmth of Sevillanos

One of the most delightful aspects of visiting Seville with your family is the warm and welcoming nature of the locals, known as Sevillanos. They have a reputation for their friendliness and genuine hospitality, making it easy for families to feel at home in the city. Sevillanos are often accommodating to children, and you'll find that your family is embraced with open arms in restaurants, parks, and attractions. Don't be surprised if your children are greeted with smiles and kind gestures as they explore this charming city. This warm reception adds an extra layer of joy to your family adventure in Seville, creating heartwarming memories that you'll cherish for years to come.

Conclusion

Seville is a city of splendours waiting to be explored by families seeking a unique and enriching adventure. With its captivating architecture, cultural experiences, and delicious cuisine, Seville offers something for every member of the family. By planning your Seville city break carefully, exploring Seville vacation packages, and prioritising family-friendly activities and accommodations, you can create cherished memories that will last a lifetime. So, pack your bags, immerse yourself in the beauty of Seville, and embark on a family adventure like no other. ¡Viva España!

6 Ideas to Get Creative On a Family Walk

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Taking family walks is an excellent avenue for fitness, obtaining fresh air, and fostering creativity for all family members. Here are several suggestions to optimize your outdoor experiences, morph your walks into small adventures, and maintain the interest of even the most energetic children as you navigate through the forest, or simply along your local streets. 

Incorporate a Challenge 

If you aim to ramp up your walks' vigor, set a fitness goal for yourself. Consider speed walking or establish a timed target to boost your pace. If kids accompany you, encourage them to hop throughout the street or mimic a horse's gallop for part of the journey. Alternatively, invite them to devise their own fun challenges to add an extra physical activity layer. You can bring a stroller fan from Diono to keep your children cool while exploring.

Alter Your Walking Route 

Your walking routes might be restricted at the moment. However, even reversing your usual direction can offer a different exercise by climbing that hill rather than descending it. If you can, vary the terrain of your walks. A dirt path provides more of a challenge compared to a flat sidewalk. Alternatively, consider driving to an area with more inclines if your regular route is level. 

Go Geocaching 

Geocaching is a delightful outdoor scavenger hunt suitable for all family members. Using specific GPS coordinates, use the Geocaching app to find hidden boxes called 'geocaches'. Typically, these geocaches hold a logbook for noting the date and time of discovery, along with a few mini treasures. If you decide to take a treasure, aim to replace it with something of similar or higher worth for the next player. With over three million geocaches globally, chances are there's one in your vicinity. 

Baking with Plant Milk - Homity Pie

My daughter, Miss M baking with me when she was 4 years old

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The Importance of Baking

I'll be honest when my kids were small there was nothing I loved more than baking with them, as it was engaging, fun, and also presented a fabulous learning opportunity. You can include maths, science, reading, and all the core subjects when you cook or bake together. 

I had a few go-to recipes that I would follow with the children. Of course, we did classics to start, like crispie cakes, refrigerator biscuits, and cupcakes. It become more fun when they were a little older and a bit more skilled and then we moved on to things like cheese and bacon flan or banana and chocolate chip bread. This former recipe is still being made in our house at least once a month as it has established itself as a staple, with a recipe that I tweaked to perfection. 

It didn't start out as my recipe though, it was one I had baked with my own mum when I was young. We were often baking as my dad was a milkman when I was a child and he would bring a couple of his milkman friends home most days for a cuppa once they finished their rounds. Cake or biscuits were a must-have alongside your cuppa.

I was interested to see recently how much has changed in the milk delivery business. When I was a child and would sometimes help dad out on his round we had about 5 different coloured tops of milk to deliver and now there are dozens, as you have all the plant milk alternatives, as well as organic, free-range, and sterilised dairy milk. 

Driving and Car Safety for your Teen Driver

 

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Your teen now drives. Going out with them in the car for the first time with them sitting behind the wheel is a sharp wake-up call. Your baby is no longer a baby, now they are in control of a large machine that can drive at speeds of 70mph (and that's if they are sticking to the speed limit) and can potentially cause serious harm, or even death. It's a bit scary when you put it like that, isn't it? Of course, the last thing you want to do is scare your teen but it is definitely worth having some serious conversations with them so they realise the full extent of the responsibility of driving alone on the roads. 

Here are a few pointers for discussion items that will help to give you peace of mind and to keep your teen safe -

Install a Car Tracker

Having a car tracker installed can be the ultimate peace of mind. You'll always be able to see where your teen is and if you've given them a radius of how far they can travel, you'll be able to spot (or even sent an alert if you set that feature to live) if they have breached that designated area. |As well as this, it is also important to have a tracker in case of theft and it makes the Police's job a lot easier if they know the location of your car. 

Get Black Box Insurance

Insurance can be a major cost when your teen first starts to drive, and one way to keep this cost down is to take (telematics) black box insurance. This device records how your teen is driving in regard to speed, braking distance, cornering, accelerating etc, and creates a score for their overall driving performance. If your teen knows they are being monitored and potentially their insurance premium could be impacted this will have a positive impact on their responsible driving. 

Set an Example

Once your teen is old enough to be interested in driving you should be setting a good example to them in your driving. Talk through the different maneuvers that you do, and why you make the driving decisions that you do, and also give them an awareness of how another's driving style might impact your safety. Demonstrating braking distances, using your mirrors and being aware of what is around you will make a marked difference. 

Pay for an Advanced Driver Course

Defensive driving could be the difference between an accident or not, so it is definitely worth investing in an advanced driver course for your teen. They will normally do around four sessions which will not only increase their driving confidence but also teach them a healthy respect and awareness of what is going on on the roads. Being aware of other drivers and driving to anticipate their errors is an essential life skill as far as I'm concerned. 

Discuss the Rules

This may seem very obvious but you need to have a conversation with your teen about what your expectations are for them driving, especially if you are footing the bill for their car, and associated costs.  Some people may assume their teen knows what is expected of them, but they are not mind readers. So spell out your expectations and make it really clear so there is no room for ambiguity.

• How far can they travel?
• Are there particular times they can use the car?
• Who is responsible for fuel costs and maintenance?
• Can they drive with friends in the car who are under the influence or smoking/ vaping?
• What is the maximum number of passengers they can take?
• Who will clean the interior and the exterior of the car?

Yes, it can seem a bit scary at first to have your teen driving but think of the time it will free up for you. They can become the taxi and take younger siblings places they need to go and you can make good use of this extra free time that you have gained back. Sit back, relax and enjoy the fact your teen is developing into a responsible adult.