“Is Weymouth in Ukraine?” Talking to kids about war
I’ve always talked openly to the boys about most things; it wasn’t a conscious decision so much as an instinctive one. When they got to the age where they could…
Lucky Goes To Market
In the previous issue of Critical Mass I wrote about how I came to write Lucky Goes to Market. I promised to share it with you and here it is!…
The Trials and Tribulations of being the Bloomin’ Christmas Tree Fairy.
I’ve been in a box for most of the year And all of my time was free But yesterday they took me out To put me on the bloomin’ Christmas…
Six Parenting jobs I did not sign up for
When you become a parent you suddenly embark upon several careers that most of us have had little or no training for. And you have no choice in the matter.…
Inequality Causes ‘Adverse Birth Outcomes’
A REPORT from a national study into the negative effects of poverty, racism and discrimination on childbirth has been published by The Lancet. The data, compiled by the National Maternity…
Mugwort’s Hallowe’en Party
Mugwort the cat was by the window, Gazing out into the Hallowe’en night. The sun had gone down almost two hours ago, Now there was only moonlight. Apart from all…
Seven surprising perks of having kids
Being a parent can be rough; this week alone I’ve faced homework deadlines, a sickness bug, multiple tantrums, a nasty smash on the head (their head not mine), I’ve been…
Live and Let Ski
Major Lars McCourt, E.A.R.S. astronaut Had spent the morning at the gym Then his holophone started bleeping And his no-nonsense boss spoke to him. ‘I hope you’re not busy McCourt,’…
Covid crisis increases domestic violence
Charities such as Women’s Aid highlighted their concerns about the increasing risk of domestic violence due to isolation when the first lockdown was announced in March 2020. Refuge, a charity…