It’s 8:21 PM, and I’m sitting on the floor between my children’s beds, typing away. The house is finally quiet, but my mind isn’t. I’m reflecting on the past few days—frustrating, overwhelming days.

I keep wondering: Is it me? Am I just stressed?
Or is it them? Are they just extra overactive this week?
It’s definitely them, right? Because, honestly, this week hasn’t even been that busy.

A few days ago, my son did something, and I spanked him. I don’t know if he was surprised because, while I’m a no-nonsense mum—full of consequences and threats—I rarely spank. But this day? This was one of those days. And honestly, I don’t regret it. It wasn’t one of those moments filled with guilt.

Why Are They Like This?

I don’t like this version of myself that I see when I’m pushed to my limits. The version where my kids act 100x worse when I’m around. Yes, I know it means they feel safe with me, but does it have to be this frustrating?

Why should it take them ten times longer to respond to me? Why do I have to repeat instructions like a broken record?

I’ve even started questioning the basics—like, how important is it really to take a bath every night? I mean, some people don’t bathe daily, right? What’s the actual worst that can happen if I let some things slide? If I let them keep ignoring me?

Motherhood vs. The Internet Version

Girrrrrllllll… I AM TIRED AND TRIGGERED!

I know it’s not just me, and I know it’s not just my kids either. But sometimes, it feels like my kids are the opposite of everyone else’s “good” and “well-behaved” children.

You know the ones—the perfectly captioned, aesthetically curated images with beige backdrops and an angelic child turning a new age. The ones where motherhood looks so effortless, so perfect. But on this side of the internet? Parenting isn’t perfect. My kids aren’t perfect. And right now, I’m just a tired mum, sitting on the floor in the dark, documenting this moment.

Someday Soon, This Too Shall Pass

It’s now 8:33 PM. One kid is still awake, tossing and turning, asking random questions—his restless mind refusing to shut down.

Boy, if you don’t sleep now…

Phew. I don’t know if this rant will make me feel better. But if nothing else, I want to remember this moment. Because someday soon, it will all converge and make sense. Someday soon, this too shall pass.

I still don’t know why my kids have been acting like this (maybe it’s the full moon?), but I’m holding onto hope that tomorrow will be a better day.

There’s a sweet spot in early motherhood, right around six weeks postpartum. The sleepless nights start to ease up (a little), your body feels somewhat healed, and you and your baby begin to settle into a rhythm. It’s a beautiful moment of peace. But if you’ve been through this before, you know it won’t last forever. Soon enough, your once-sleepy newborn will transform into an alert, wiggly, and curious little human who is eager to engage with the world. And when that happens, you might find yourself wondering: What am I supposed to do with this child?

The good news? There are simple, brain-boosting activities you can incorporate into your daily routine that will not only nurture your baby’s development but also make your days more enjoyable and meaningful. Here are some ideas:

Brain-Boosting Activities for Your Growing Baby

1. Talk with Your Baby

Never assume your baby doesn’t understand. Long before they can speak, they are absorbing every word, tone, and facial expression. Narrate your daily activities—whether you're changing a diaper, making a cup of tea, or folding laundry. Describe what you see, what you’re doing, and even how you feel. This constant exposure to language lays the foundation for their speech and cognitive development.

2. Engage in Sensory Play

Babies learn best through their senses—touch, sight, smell, sound, and taste. Simple sensory experiences, like letting your baby stay a little longer in the bath to explore the feeling of water, walking outdoors so they can take in new sights and sounds, or offering safe textures to touch, help develop their brain connections. Be intentional about creating sensory-rich moments throughout the day.

3. Read Books Together

Reading is one of the most powerful tools for language development. Even if your baby doesn’t understand the words yet, hearing your voice and seeing the rhythm of sentences helps them build early literacy skills. Plus, books expose them to a variety of words and sounds they might not hear in everyday conversations.

4. Be Mindful of Patterns

It’s easy to slip into the habit of seeing your baby as an interruption to your schedule rather than an active participant in your day. Resist the urge to feel frustrated when your baby does what babies do—pulling things, scattering toys, not napping when you’d hoped. Instead of fighting it, embrace the moment. Shift your perspective to view these instances as opportunities to connect, teach, and engage rather than obstacles.

5. Invest in Open-Ended Toys

Open-ended toys are those that can be used in multiple ways—building blocks, stacking cups, wooden animals, or scarves for pretend play. These toys grow with your child and encourage creativity, problem-solving, and independent play. Unlike single-purpose toys, open-ended ones offer endless possibilities for exploration.

6. Take the Guesswork Out of Play

If you’re feeling overwhelmed about how to incorporate purposeful play into your routine, consider a done-for-you Playriculum. This structured yet flexible play guide helps you engage your little one in meaningful, developmentally appropriate activities without the stress of planning it all yourself. It’s the perfect tool for busy parents who want to nurture their child’s growth through play but don’t have the time to research and create activities from scratch.

Final Thoughts

That peaceful postpartum phase may be fleeting, but with intentional engagement and the right tools, you can make the transition into active babyhood smoother and more fulfilling. Enjoy these moments, lean into play, and remember—you’re not just passing the time; you’re shaping a curious and confident learner.

Ready to make play easier and more intentional? Check out the Playriculum and start integrating effortless, brain-boosting activities into your home today!

Like, how much is too much for me to share for strangers to not feel like they know my kids? 

I wish I could wave a magic wand for people to know how to draw the line and not act like they know my kids in public because of their mother. You know? Instead of just calling their names, ask like you just met them because in reality you just met them. Don't leave the child confused as to why "this person is so excited to see me, I don't even know them"

It's been a hard hurdle to cross and it made me draw into my shell. I know that was not the basis for my blog in the first place. 

It's a place of authenticity, vulnerability and truth about my motherhood journey and how can I share my motherhood journey without oversharing details about my children's lives? That's been where I don't know how to balance it but I will try again. 

I still share about our Homeschool and while that is impactful, I still want to write for the me in motherhood, me that doesn't have friends that they text all the time about what's happening on their journey, me that still relies on Google, me that feels like it's a burden to ask people for anything. I want to still write for her, let her know she's not alone and I'm just trying to find a balance. 

One thing I've kept up though, is my blog goals. I have documented my journey of growing my blog income and I took some time to review my goals for last year. If I tell you that this year was the easiest to review why? 

Lol. I didn't set any goals.

See I was TIRED!!! Mentally, physically and emotionally. I think it's because I had a baby and I still went went went, I was drowning in anxiety and I just wanted it to be over and it was rest that finally did it for me. 

I still made some money. I never in my wildest dream thought that it was possible. I even predicted that in my yearly post and I am grateful for it and it showed me that anything is possible. 

This was what I wrote last year, let's see how I did;

1. I am not traveling with the kids this year (except I get a sponsorship) I didn't travel to anywhere, I didn't get any sponsorship.
2. I am not paying for any course or product to help me "grow" and definitely no more ads class.  I paid o, I paid but I didn't do any Facebook ads class. Hallelujah!
3. I am not pursuing any ambition for this business.  Honestly didn't and I am glad.
4. I will do whatever I want to do at my pace in terms of products and webinars that I really want to create. I created one product and did 2 Webinars. 
5. Above all trusting God with everything. Leaned on him totally

What was I able to achieve this year,

• Instagram grew to 18k Followers
• I was interviewed by BBC News for the 2nd time in my career. 
• I was on the radio 3 times
• Interviewed by Ikeja Records & Lagos Mums
• Spoke at 6 events 
• Trademarked my business 
• Grew our community to 100+ people 
• Add 3 more products 

This year, I want to set some goals only to keep me motivated but I don't want to set goals that will make me anxious and draw me back to the place of "hustling". I will work hard but that hustling mindset, phew! I don't want it again. 

1. Have 1 post that is more vulnerable every month.
2. Visit and review 50 - 60 places with the kids
3. Increase my revenue by marketing the products we already have.
4. Grow my Instagram to 20k - 25k
5. Organize Homeschooling Conversations 
6. Work with 5 major brands within my niche 

 Looking for an exciting activity that gets everyone moving and having fun? 

We discovered just the place—Skate City at Purple Mall, Lekki. From skating thrills to hoverboard adventures, our visit was packed with laughter and memorable moments. Whether you’re a parent looking for a way to keep the kids active or an adult wanting to try something different, Skate City offers a unique experience for all.

Here’s a detailed rundown of our visit, what we loved, and a few tips to make your outing even more enjoyable.

The Experience

Skate City is designed with families in mind, offering an array of activities in a vibrant and safe environment. From the moment we walked in, the atmosphere was inviting. From kids to adults, this is a space for both beginners and pros to have fun, no matter their skill level. We had a good laugh watching adults get a hang of skating. 

Things to Note Before You Go

1. Pack Your Socks: If you’re planning to skate, socks are a must. It’s a small detail and they will provide you one but it's better to go with yours. 
2. Hoverboard Fun for Younger Kids: For little ones are not allowed to skate, the hoverboard is an excellent alternative. It’s easy to use, and they’ll love the sense of independence it offers.
3. You will sign a waiver: You will be required to sign a waiver absorbing them of the liability of any injuries while skating.

What We Loved About Skate City

1. Friendly Staff: The staff were incredibly welcoming and patient, especially with first-timers. They provided guidance and made everyone feel at ease.
2. Variety of Activities: From skating, hoverboarding to arcade game &VR, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re a kid or an adult, you’ll find an activity to suit your energy level.
3. Clean and Safe Environment: The venue is well-maintained(It's still new), with safety being a top priority. This gave us peace of mind as the kids zoomed around having the time of their lives.

Areas for Improvement

While our experience was overwhelmingly positive, there’s room for growth. When the venue gets busy, it can feel a bit understaffed. Adding more team members during peak hours would ensure everyone gets the attention and assistance they need.

Pricing

One of the great things about Skate City is that it’s affordable for the experience it offers.

• Skating: ₦6,000/hour (ages 5 and above)
• Hoverboard: ₦4,000/10 minutes

For a family outing, it’s a worthwhile investment in fun, laughter, and memories.

Why We Recommend Skate City

We can’t rave enough about how much fun we had at Skate City. It’s a fantastic spot to bond with the kids, get active, and try something new. The mix of friendly service, exciting activities, and affordability makes it a must-visit destination for families in Lekki.

Cuddly Loves Rating: 5/5

This outing earned a perfect score on our Cuddly Loves scale. It’s an experience we’ll be talking about for weeks to come and one we’re sure you’ll love too.

Whether you’re zipping around the skating rink or mastering the hoverboard, one thing is certain—you’ll leave with a big smile on your face!

Have you been to Skate City? Share your experiences in the comments below—I’d love to hear your thoughts!

My name is Tomilola and I am passionate about parents giving their children diverse experiences through places they visit and playbased activities. Click to see all the play activities you can engage your kids with.

Raising Confident and Independent Children: Building Foundations for Wholesome Adulthood

As parents, one of our key roles is to nurture qualities that help our children grow into wholesome adults who can confidently and effectively function within society. Confidence and independence are not just admirable traits; they are pillars that contribute to a child's sense of self-worth and ability to navigate the world. In this article, I'll share how I intentionally work to build confidence and independence in my children through simple, everyday actions that encourage autonomy, respect for boundaries, and decision-making skills.

1. Letting Them Walk Ahead:

One of the small but significant ways I encourage independence is by letting my children walk ahead of me in safe, familiar environments. This seemingly simple act gives them the chance to interact with people they meet on their own terms. I've found that when they encounter someone, they naturally greet and begin a conversation, which allows them to engage socially without my immediate presence. This approach fosters both social confidence and a sense of responsibility, knowing they can handle these situations independently.

2. Allowing Them to Speak for Themselves:

When people ask my children questions directly, I make a conscious effort not to speak on their behalf. This isn't always easy; sometimes they take a moment to gather their thoughts, or they might be hesitant. However, I believe in giving them the space to respond on their own terms. If they give an incorrect answer, I hold off on correcting it immediately, allowing them to manage the conversation. Later, I’ll gently clarify things to help them learn without feeling undermined. This small act reinforces their confidence in self-expression and gives them the chance to represent themselves authentically.

3. Creating an Environment that Promotes Independence:

Our home setup plays a huge role in encouraging independence. While we may not have child-sized versions of everything, I make sure that essentials—like resources and play materials—are accessible. Our home environment is flexible, with dedicated areas for play and even indoor activities like skating and scootering. Clear boundaries help my children understand their space, encouraging them to act autonomously within defined limits. They don’t have to come to me every time they want to try something; they know what is allowed and can explore confidently within those boundaries.

4. Equipping Them for Decision-Making:

Independence thrives on the ability to make choices. I frequently reiterate family rules so my children know the boundaries and expectations clearly. This approach empowers them to act with independence, even when I'm not directly supervising. Low-stakes decision-making opportunities, like choosing between play activities or setting small goals, teach them to assess options and make decisions.

5. Encouraging Their Successes:

Positive reinforcement is powerful for confidence building. I make it a point to acknowledge when my children make decisions, follow through with tasks independently, or respect the family’s boundaries. By recognizing these small moments, they understand that their efforts are noticed and valued. This boosts their self-esteem and reinforces their sense of autonomy, as they start to associate independence with achievement and self-respect.

Conclusion

As we guide our children on their journey to adulthood, fostering independence and confidence lays a strong foundation for their future. Remember, children need to experience autonomy to truly understand its value. When they are encouraged to make choices and operate within boundaries, confidence naturally grows as a byproduct. Teaching independence in a safe and supportive environment equips them with life skills that will serve them well into adulthood, empowering them to become resilient, capable individuals ready to take on the world.

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Whether a child attends a traditional school or is homeschooled, the role of parents as primary educators cannot be overstated. This involvement extends far beyond simply ensuring homework is completed or attending parent-teacher meetings. It encompasses creating a supportive learning environment at home, fostering a love of learning, and actively participating in a child's educational journey.

The Traditional School Setting

In the conventional school system, parental involvement typically manifests in various forms:

• Communication: Regular interaction with teachers through phone calls, emails, or conferences.
• Support: Assisting with homework, providing a quiet study space, and ensuring adequate sleep and nutrition.
• Participation: Attending school events, volunteering, and serving on school committees.
• Advocacy: Representing the child's interests and needs within the school system.

While these forms of involvement are undoubtedly valuable, it's essential to recognize that they often represent the tip of the iceberg. Deeper engagement involves understanding a child's intelligence, collaborating with teachers to develop individualized learning plans, and nurturing a lifelong curiosity for knowledge.

This post is sponsored by Gradely. Gradely empowers parents with personalised learning resources, so you can take charge of their progress and help them succeed in school and in life. Download the app on iOS and App store.

The Homeschooling Paradigm

Homeschooling offers a unique opportunity for parents to take a more hands-on approach to education. While it demands significant time and dedication, it also provides unparalleled flexibility and customization. Effective homeschooling requires:

• Curriculum Development: Creating or selecting a curriculum that aligns with the child's learning goals and interests.
• Instruction: Delivering lessons and providing guidance in various subjects.
• Assessment: Monitoring progress and adapting teaching strategies as needed.
• Socialization: Facilitating opportunities for interaction with peers through extracurricular activities and co-op groups.

It's crucial to remember that homeschooling is not simply a solitary endeavor. Parents who homeschool often form supportive communities and seek guidance from experienced homeschooling families.

Breaking Barriers

Regardless of the educational path chosen, overcoming challenges and fostering a positive learning environment are common to both traditional schooling and homeschooling. Factors such as socioeconomic status, cultural background, and parental education levels can significantly impact the level of involvement.

To bridge these gaps, schools, communities, and policymakers must work together to provide resources, support, and encouragement for all parents. By empowering parents to become active participants in their children's education, we can create a more equitable and effective learning ecosystem.

Ultimately, the success of any educational approach hinges on the strength of the parent-child relationship and the commitment to lifelong learning. Whether in the classroom or at the kitchen table, parents are the cornerstone of a child's educational journey.

How do you see parental involvement shaping the future of education? Share your thoughts in the comments below.

Education is the bedrock of a nation's progress, and Nigeria is no exception. As parents, we all strive to equip our children with the knowledge and skills they need to succeed. However, accessing the Nigerian curriculum, the blueprint for their education can be challenging. Traditionally, curriculum materials have been limited and often come at a cost. These materials, frequently resembling a scheme of work, lack the detail and comprehensiveness needed for a well-rounded understanding.

This is where stakeholders like parents come in. We play a crucial role in supporting our children's education beyond the classroom. But how can we effectively do so if we don't have transparent access to the curriculum itself?

The good news is, the tides are turning. There's a growing movement towards making the Nigerian curriculum more accessible and user-friendly. This empowers parents to become active partners in their children's learning journey.

Enter Afrilearn: A revolutionary app designed to bridge this gap. Afrilearn is a free, digital learning platform specifically tailored for Nigerian students from primary to secondary school. Here's what makes Afrilearn a game-changer:

• Free Access to the Curriculum: Unlike traditional, paid resources, Afrilearn provides comprehensive curriculum content at no cost. This ensures equitable access to knowledge for all students, regardless of socioeconomic background.
• Beyond Schemes of Work: Afrilearn goes far beyond a mere scheme of work. It offers a rich learning experience with curriculum-based video lessons, detailed class notes, interactive exercises, and personalized study dashboards. Students can learn at their own pace, explore different learning styles, and solidify their understanding.
• Engagement is Key: Afrilearn understands that engaged students learn best. The platform incorporates gamified elements, making learning fun and rewarding. This approach not only motivates students but also helps them retain information more effectively.

Empowering Parents, Empowering Students:

Afrilearn empowers parents by providing them with the tools to actively participate in their children's education. With access to the curriculum and a clear understanding of learning objectives, parents can:

• Support Learning at Home: By understanding what their children are learning in school, parents can create a supportive learning environment at home. They can identify areas where their child might need extra help and find relevant resources within Afrilearn to bridge any gaps.
• Monitor Progress: Afrilearn's personalized dashboards allow parents to track their child's progress. This valuable information helps them identify strengths and weaknesses, enabling them to tailor their support accordingly.
• Become Active Partners: With Afrilearn, parents are no longer passive bystanders in their children's education. They can become active partners, fostering a love of learning and ensuring their child reaches their full potential.

Afrilearn is a beacon of hope, offering a future where access to the Nigerian curriculum is free and readily available. By embracing such innovative solutions, we can empower parents, engage students, and build a brighter future for Nigerian education.

Download the app today, available on ios and Andriod