By Kate Hodges
05th August 2021
RECIPE ICE MAGIC This summer, we’re making the most of any pockets of sun, and aiming to make as many ice lollies as is humanly possible. We have delicious recipes for leftover cake ices, fruit-packed green monster pops and creamy coconut and berry popsicles. The Guardian’s mega recipe round-up is all-encompassing; try pastel mini milks, this genius cereal milk ice-cream, or a rich and creamy banana tahini popsicle. These two-ingredient blueberry ombré ices are one of the prettiest lollies we’ve seen while Minimalist Baker’s fruity pops are full of vitamins. If you’re breastfeeding, you might even try making breastmilk lollipops – they’re great for soothing little sore throats!
EVENT MILKY GOODNESS It’s World Breastfeeding Week, a chance to celebrate the free, totally portable, nutrient-packed baby food; find our ideas of how to celebrate it here. The week is a global campaign to raise awareness and galvanise action on themes related to breastfeeding. We have a wealth of breastfeeding information at The Green Parent including ways to overcome common issues experienced by many women, breastfeeding beyond babyhood and breastfeeding advice for dads.
EVENT DRAG FAMILY Summer hangs at the South Bank Centre are an essential for every London family (and every family visiting London). This year, there’s a Summer Reunion theme, with art shows, dance classes and food markets to enjoy. Artist Ilke Gers’ outdoor artworks create reimagined games that anyone can play, while the secret garden on top of the Queen Elizabeth Hall is a little green hideaway in the heart of the city. This weekend Iraqi Muslim drag sensation Amrou Al-Kadhi curates Chosen Family, a series of events that include craft, music and storytelling and celebrate marginalised communities coming together.
EVENT SCOTS AWAY Every August, the streets of Edinburgh are filled with crazily dressed performers, music and laughter, as the Edinburgh Festival and Fringe Festival spring into life. The Fringe is perhaps best known for its adult comedy offerings, but there’s also lots going on for younger culture vultures, from shows specifically aimed at kids to physical and circus event. This year, the festival is holding the At Home partnership, a series of events that are accessible anywhere in the world for free, while the Fringe has plenty of online events that include an adaptation of Julia Donaldson’s The Snail and the Whale and a version of The Hare and the Tortoise specifically for babies and toddlers. Some events ticketed, many free.
MAKE SEASONS TURN A place to follow the changing seasons, a nature table can be used to mirror the outside world in a corner of your home. This creative pastime encourages us to live in harmony with the rhythm of nature, and for small children it can offer a real sense of security. It’s a place to explore nature, learn about growth and decay, and enjoy sensory and imaginative play. Why not go on a nature hunt to start yours this weekend? Find more inspiration here and here, and read about how to create weekly, seasonal and yearly rhythms for your family here
WHAT WE’RE READING The parenting penalties faced by scientist mothers “Starting a family at a key career stage comes at a cost to birthing parents — and many end up leaving the profession as a result.” Read more here
WHAT WE’RE WATCHING Racism in the UK - how do I talk to my kids about it? Following the racist abuse of England’s Euro 2020 players, BBC presenter Eddie Nestor explores how to approach conversations with his own children about race and racism. Watch here
