Written by Kim - The Shawver Family Having a mixed heritage family is full of learning, travelling and of course, extra holiday celebrations. One of which for us is the all American fourth of July! This year is special as it's the 250th anniversary of independence day. The fourth of July dates back to the beginning of USA independence from the UK in 1776. Originally the act of the celebration itself was based on the annual celebrations they would normally have each summer t

The days are at their absolute longest, the school gates have reopened after a gorgeous May half-term, and the British summer is finally doing what it does best—giving us those beautiful, golden evenings. When the sun is shining, there’s a collective urge to drop everything and get outside. But between school runs, work, and the never-ending laundry pile, it can feel tough to make the most of it. The good news? You don’t need a packed suitcase or a grand plan to catch those s

Can you believe we are already down to the wire? Here at Boom Magazine, our absolute favourite part of the job is shining a spotlight on the incredible people, places, and businesses that make our local community so incredibly special. From the magical children's activity classes that save our rainy Saturdays, to the independent cafes that keep us fuelled with caffeine, the Boom Magazine Awards are all about celebrating you. And right now? We are officially entering the final

Written by Hannah Marriott - Boom Buddy Family The Marriott/Fallon People often say, "Enjoy every moment, it goes so fast." What they don't say is that those moments often involve someone crying, someone climbing the furniture, and someone else shouting "Muuuuum!" from a different room while you're just trying to drink a cup of tea that's been reheated three times. I am a mum of three boys, all aged four and under. Life in our house is less "calm family home" and more "extrem

By Steph, Co-Owner and Director, First Time Mum There’s something magical about a family picnic—fresh air, happy children, and food that somehow tastes better outdoors. Whether you’re heading to the park, beach, or even your own garden, a little planning can turn a simple outing into a stress-free highlight of your week. 🧺 Start with the Essentials Before you even think about food, make sure you’ve got the basics covered. A large picnic blanket is a must (bonus points if it’

By Jess, Co-Owner and Director, First Time Mum Becoming a parent - whether for the first time or again; has a way of quietly rearranging your entire world. Your routines shift, your priorities change, and somewhere in-between the blur of feeds, naps, and logistics, it’s easy to feel like the version of you that existed before, has slipped out of reach. Alongside that, friendships can feel harder to maintain, let alone build. But finding your way back to yourself and connecti

By Kendall - The Tiddlekicks Family As a mum of three, one thing I’ve learned about routines and family life is that no two families are the same - and that’s completely okay. When we hear the word ‘routine’, it can sometimes sound a bit like we need to have every hour planned out. But in reality, routines don’t have to be strict at all. For me, routine is about consistency - creating a pattern in family life that our children can recognise and rely on. Simple things like me

Written by Steph, co-owner & first time mummy There’s something special about a Bank Holiday when you have children – a little extra time together, and a chance to pause the school rush. It doesn’t have to be packed with big plans to feel memorable. Start simple; a morning with no alarms, a pancake breakfast, or even a lazy morning in pyjamas can feel like a treat for little ones. If the weathers nice, head outdoors – a local park, a nature walk, or a family picnic. These ca

Recently named Best Multi‑Sport Holiday Camps Provider 2026 – Midlands, Team Super Sports is launching at Repton Prep School from this May Half-Term. Perfect for children who love to stay active, the camps offer full days of sport, enrichment and fun in a safe, structured environment. One of the things families love most is the freedom children have to choose the sports they want to try each day - from football, netball and tennis to cricket, rugby, hockey, gymnastics and mor

Happy Easter everyone! Here's our comprehensive guide to What's On over the school holidays!

By Rev. Elliott George - Belper Vicar Hello there – I’m Elliot, the new vicar for Belper! We’re about to enter my favourite time of year, when schools start talking about Springtime topics like flowers and life-cycles. As you can see in the photo above, we’re desperate for new life to begin – when the days will brighten up, leaves start growing on our trees again, and the damp and cold of Winter will (hopefully) fizzle away. Maybe some of you have also started stocking up on

Written by Jacqui, Twistin Tots You will need: - Cardboard tube - Googly eyes - Black, pink, white, yellow, orange card - Glue What to do: 1. Cut a large rectangle of black card, wrap around tube and glue on. 2. Cut a white rectangle of white card, 2/3 size of tube. Round off corners. Glue to tube leaving 1/3 at the top. 3. Cut two rectangles of black card for wings and round corners. Stick each side of tube, 3/4 of way up, overlapping the white card and so they just reach

Written by Layla, Sunshine Forest School Crafting in the woods gives children the chance to slow down, get curious and create in a calm, natural space. Surrounded by trees, changing seasons and natural textures, the woodland becomes both a place to play and a place to make. Woodland craft is about connection, to nature, to materials and to children’s own ideas. Encouraging children to use natural, found materials wherever possible, such as sticks, leaves, stones, bark and mud

We have asked our followers to share questions they’d like answers too, and then you let you answer. Q : My baby won't sleep unless they are on me. Am I creating a bad habit? A: Baby has been used to being so close to you, they crave warmth & your heartbeat. The idea of 'spoiling' your child is becoming outdated and habit's can be built or changed later Q : My toddler will only eat beige food, or snack. Help. A: It's totally normal. Keep offering without pressure. One day the

Written by Jess - Director & Co-Owner of Boom Magazine, Mum to Flynn, Dog Mum & Working Part Time Spring cleaning used to mean a full weekend, industrial-strength products, and a level of focus I simply do not possess anymore. With kids aged 0–11 in the house, “deep clean” now happens in short, scrappy intervals between snacks, naps, homework, and someone shouting “MUM!” from another room. And honestly? That’s okay. If you’re a busy mum who gets overstimulated easily (hi, sam

Written by George - A Dentist From Glendair Dental Practice in Alfreton Hey kids (and parents too!), Easter is here with yummy chocolate eggs and sweet treats. But your teeth are like superheroes: they help you munch, chat, and flash big grins. They need your help to stay strong and healthy. As a dentist, I see every day how starting good habits early keeps smiles happy for life. It’s all about consistency, a bit of fun, and patience especially since for little ones, mums, da

Written by Steph, First Time Mum, Co-Owner & Director Every year in March, children across the UK celebrate World Book Day — a special day dedicated to books, stories and the joy of reading. World Book Day was created to spark a lifelong love of reading in young people, encouraging children to discover books that excite them and helping families to make reading a fun part of everyday life. In the UK and Ireland, children in full-time education are given a special book token

Here's everything you need to know to keep your little ones busy during half term! Let's keep everything crossed for some blue skies! The Big Attractions Kids' Activities Outdoor Adventures Theatre & Film THE BIG ATTRACTIONS Bluebells Dairy Junior Shepherd Week Sat 15 to Sun 23 Feb Watch lambs take their first steps and let little ones experience life on the farm through farming role play activities. Book here Bolsover Castle Margaret Cavendish’s Mind Lab Sat 14 - Sun 22

Written & shared by the P Family We’ve finally done it. We managed to twist his arm, and Mr. P has officially agreed to share the legendary P Family Secret 1 2 3 4 Pancake Recipe. Usually kept under lock and key, Mr. P’s special method is the stuff of family legend—guaranteeing the perfect golden flip and a batter so light you'll be coming back for thirds (or fourths, we won't judge!). Whether you’re a traditional lemon-and-sugar family or you go wild with the toppings, this

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