Mom, were going to Walibi over the holidays, my 14-year-old son announced while I was buried in work at my computer. It barely registered that he meant going solo, so I mumbled, Just add it to the calendar.Id completely forgotten about it until dinnertime, when he brought it up again. If we go to Wa

Almost every little girl dreams of her own princess bedroom—and as experienced parents and interior enthusiasts, weve seen how rewarding it is to bring that fantasy to life. Drawing from years of helping families create enchanting kids spaces, were sharing practical inspiration to transform your dau

As a seasoned parent raising both a spirited toddler and a pre-teen, Ive learned firsthand how toddler puberty—those fierce independence battles—and prepuberty can collide under one roof. It gets intense, and yes, downright exhausting at times.Toddlerhood and Prepuberty in the Same House? Brace Your

Last year, my eldest teenager finished his four-year VMBO-t program and opted for commercial vehicle engineering. It caught me off guard—hed always been passionate about economics—but I fully supported him. As a parent, I dont dictate my kids careers. My only wish? That they find joy in their work a

Admittedly, ironing isnt my thing. But recently, a beautifully wrapped package arrived that changed that. If you follow me on Instagram, you might have spotted it. Inside was a treasure trove, including trendy Xenos iron-on patches! My daughter, an 8-year-old style enthusiast, was thrilled. At her a

Everyone knows the iconic My Little Pony characters from TV. The new My Little Pony: The Movie premiered this week, and as a longtime fan and mom, I attended the event at Kinepolis in Utrecht with my family. Heres our honest, firsthand report from a parent whos loved these ponies since childhood.Thi

As parents, we start with helpless babies and aim to raise independent young adults ready for college dorms 18 years later. The journey involves big milestones like swim lessons and first school days, plus countless daily tasks: combing hair, dressing, brushing teeth, washing hands, making sandwich

The Netherlands is buzzing with Halloween vibes, but Sinterklaas dominates daily conversations here. The Saint Nicholas secret remains intact—for now. My youngest keeps asking if everythings set in Spain: Is Sinterklaas prepared? Are there enough gifts? Is the pepernoten factory at full throttle?Tha

At 22, my college-student daughter showed incredible bravery by confronting her moped thief in the act. While bike and moped thefts are all too common—with reports often leading nowhere—this time, determination paid off. As her parent, witnessing her courage firsthand fills me with immense pride.Tab

As a parent whos tackled hotel stays with a baby—and learned the hard way that one room means early bedtimes for everyone—Im gearing up for our next adventure: a 1,430 km drive to Croatia with our one-year-old toddler. Round trip, thats 2,860 km. Im excited, but realistic about the challenges. Drawi

Mommy, what are you going to do when I go to school? Mommys going to make some money, I reply. Hes been counting down the days to kindergarten, and so have I—dreaming of carefree days with Netflix marathons, lunch dates with friends, or even dancing on tables. Little Man gives me a serious look. Mom

As working mothers, we often feel wired for guilt—its relentless. I know it intimately as a mom and writer, and heres my story…“Mommy?” “Yes, honey.”I’m struggling to stay patient. I’ve already gently asked him six times to watch Fireman Sam quietly.“Why do you have to work?” “Because I need to earn

The thought of my child announcing, Mom, when Im done with school, Im going to study abroad, sends a chill down my spine. As a parent of a 13-year-old, I admire the courage of teens who embark on such adventures with little experience. But when its your own child, its a different story—would I truly

Having your second child brings a fresh perspective compared to your firstborn. With your first, every moment feels monumental—you’re suddenly responsible for a tiny, helpless human. Instant worry sets in, and you vow to do everything perfectly: sterilizing everything in sight, homemade snacks, even

Coats strewn across the floor, gloves vanishing into thin air, and hooks in short supply—these are daily frustrations for parents everywhere. As a seasoned mom whos tackled home organization for years, Ive found that a well-chosen childrens coat rack makes all the difference. Weve curated standout

As a parent, keeping tabs on your childs whereabouts and ensuring theyre reachable in emergencies is crucial. Smartphones make this possible. In fact, 97% of students over 12 already own one. But what key factors should you consider when selecting a smartphone for your child?Gifting a smartphone com

As your baby grows bigger and stronger, their appetite evolves too. After 4-6 months of breast or formula milk, introduce new flavors and textures gradually. From 12 months, Kabrita goat milk-based cereal porridges are an excellent addition—especially if youve considered goat milk as a gentler alter

Our family holidays are officially over. With Region Midden back in school since Monday, my three kids headed off with fresh supplies, new teachers, higher grades, and reunited classmates. Yes, the kids are back in school! Reading Joyces post about surviving two weeks of vacation at home hit home—I

Accessibility is key for parents, but should kids be as reachable as adults? For high schoolers traveling farther, its practical. Yet, like us, children dont just use phones for necessities. Studies show excessive screen time hinders focus, especially in school.Smartphones at SchoolAs experienced pa

Parents often form quick opinions about babysitters, but what do babysitters truly think? How do they view their relationship with parents, and what key details should you share before they arrive to care for your children? Drawing from years of matching families with trusted sitters, Oudermatch sha