🌱 Gentle Learning

Why Balanced Boundaries Beat Overbearing or Too-Gentle Parenting in ND Homes

Gentle parenting isn’t about letting everything slide. And structure doesn’t have to mean control. Here’s how balanced boundaries can transform parenting for ND families - with warmth, presence, and less pressure. Recent UK research shows that children thrive most not under authoritarian or overly-permissive parenting - but with a balanced style known as authoritative parenting. It’s…

ByHeather 0Likes

A soft-toned digital illustration showing a parent gently closing a laptop while a child sits nearby in cosy evening light. The image features the blog title “Social Media Curfews for Kids” and Darling Mellow branding at the bottom.

Social Media Curfews for Kids: What UK Parents Should Know in 2025

Social Media Curfews for Kids: What UK Parents Need to Know in 2025 The rules are changing, and it can feel overwhelming. This guide will help you prepare calmly, with care and confidence. Should children have access to social media late at night? In June 2025, this question is front and centre as the UK government…

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A British mum cuddling her child on the sofa while reading a picture book together — calm, supportive atmosphere with warm natural lighting

When Should I Worry If My Child Can’t Read Yet? A Parent’s Guide to Late Readers

When Should I Worry If My Child Can’t Read Yet? A Parent’s Guide to Late Readers Is your 6, 7 or even 8-year-old still struggling to read? You’re not alone. Here’s what’s normal, what’s not, and what actually helps. First, Let’s Breathe: Late Reading Isn’t Always a Problem Reading isn’t a race - but it can…

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A smiling mum and daughter sitting on a soft rug, using a printed Calm Toolkit worksheet together with coloured pens and a cuddly toy nearby — calm family bonding moment

How to Raise a Calm Child – Even If You’re Not a Calm Parent

How to Raise a Calm Child in a Loud World In today’s overstimulating, fast-moving world, raising a calm child can feel impossible - especially if you’re not naturally calm yourself. But with the right tools, routines and mindset, it’s absolutely possible to build a peaceful, grounded home environment for your child (and you). What Does It…

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Child using tablet while parent reads — balanced screen time at home

How Much Screen Time Is Too Much? Real Advice for 2025

How Much Screen Time Is Too Much? A Realistic Guide for Modern Parents In a world full of tablets, smart TVs, and YouTube Kids, managing screen time can feel overwhelming. Here’s what’s normal, what’s not, and how to reset without the guilt. Why Screen Time Feels So Complicated Now Screen time isn’t just about TV anymore.…

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A smiling young girl proudly showing her crayon drawing to her mum at a wooden table, surrounded by colourful pencils in a bright, happy home setting

How to Build Your Child’s Confidence Without Overpraising

How to Build Your Child’s Confidence Without Overpraising Confidence is key - but how do you nurture it in a child without turning everything into a gold star moment? Why Confidence Matters More Than Ever Confident children are more likely to take healthy risks, try new things, and bounce back after mistakes. But confidence isn’t about…

ByHeather 0Likes

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