By Kate Hodges
14th May 2020
DO New Issue Ahoy!
The latest edition of Green Parent magazine is the perfect antidote to lockdown lethargy. We asked you what you wanted to read about and created a tailor-made magazine. There are ideas for mini self-care rituals (think 15 minutes before the kids get up!), immune-boosting techniques, ideas for making play educational, ungardening tips and easy recipes for a super nutritious lunch. Meet the family whose project-based home education has them building a house and try a foraged cocktail recipe. Find ideas for luring teens from screens and meet the organic artist who creates colourful paint from rocks. There’s much much more inside. Come and get inspired! Subscribe here or buy a one-off issue here
DO Garden Greatness
Even with the new loosening of restrictions, it looks like we’ll be spending a lot of time in our back gardens and parks this summer. Why not set to work creating some full-on fun for your lawn or yard? These giant, outdoor versions of classic games are a lot of fun. We love the idea of giant outdoor Kerplunk, and Horseshoe tossing is a well-loved classic. If you’re craving something a little more relaxing, these ideas for DIY hot tubs are so, so tempting. We’ve got our beady eyes on the wood-fired cedar design.
RECIPE Supercharged Picnics
Picnics are back! We think that’s right, anyway; the rules are a *little* confusing. If you’re not sure, stick to your back garden. Why not try a Japanese-themed affair, with rolled omelette, Inarizushi and chilled cucumber with miso? Alternatively, try the vegan Italian, Middle Eastern ideas here, or brave the 1970s-style feast! We’re going to try this super-traditional vegetarian Bedfordshire Clanger recipe – Clangers are a variant on pasties, with sweet and savoury fillings in one tasty package – easy to transport and very tasty.
LEARN Animal Magic
We’re digging the Natural History Museum’s live online events. This week, museum scientist Natalie Cooper gives a sharp insight into the lives of blue whales (suitable for 6+) and next Tuesday there’s a chance to take a peek into the world of carnivorous plants and watch how they catch their food. The Nature Live Online team are around every Tuesday at 12pm and Friday at 10.30am for interactive chat and topical discussions.
DO and MAKE Petal Powered
Flower pressing is calming, creative, and produces beautiful results. It’s also a fine lesson in patience. This tutorial explores different ways to preserve your blooms, from using books or an iron to using a proper wooden press, as well as instructions in making a botanic print. Find more ideas for things to make with your pressed flowers here, including jewellery, a whimsical flower clock or even a phone cover. Always get permission to pick your flowers and don’t take too many.
What we’ve been reading this week:
Looking after your mental health during lockdown
“Create a new daily routine that prioritises looking after yourself. You could try reading more or watching movies, having an exercise routine, trying new relaxation techniques, or finding new knowledge on the internet. Try and rest and view this as a new if unusual experience, that might have its benefits.” Read more here
Found something inspirational to read that you’d like to share? Want to share your lockdown creations with us? Have an idea for things to do? We’d love to hear from you. Email Kate
