A blog about being a pretty average dad… and stuff (formerly Henry's Blog)
This would definitely go down as one of the more unusual places that I’ve written a blog post. I am currently sat on a bench on the balcony-floor above a school swimming pool, laptop on lap, children whooping and screaming on the level below. It’s not my children’s school, I should point out – though…
In an effort to incentivise our children to do good things, parents turn to many different options. Some choose money – whether ‘pocket’ money or ad-hoc rewards – others choose praise (good luck making that last past 18 months!). Some reward with presents, some use sticky charts or tables and some believe that to ‘reward’…
I don’t write about my children often. I love sharing pictures and amusing stories, but when it comes to anything serious I was always conscious of coming across as one of those people who either never shuts up about their kids, or would imply that a certain method of parenting is better than another. But…
Ever since the Lego Movie came out this year, I have earned myself a new nickname in our house: President Business. Now I should probably clarify at this stage, I don’t THINK they’re suggesting I’m an evil, maniacal overlord who wants to destroy cities and stamp on all types of creativity. I THINK they’re calling…
Raising children can be a beautiful experience, but even the most hardened and successful parent will probably admit that there are times when it can be tricky. During the tougher times, it can be good to look outside of your immediate circle of family and friends for advice. Some people read books, some for groups,…
The Elliss family were on the brink of a developmental dental-disaster this evening… It all started when my wife picked Robert up from school. He’s had a wobbly tooth now for several weeks – possibly months. We’re talking the most hotly-anticipated teeth-based incident for decades. This was Robert’s first foray into teeth-losing, so it took…
Today I learnt (to much amusement, I’m ashamed to admit) that somebody I know has an unusual phobia. Now I’m not going to name names here, because I don’t want to see the person in question suffering from unnecessary anxiety (though part of me is quite curious to see what happens!) but the phobia got…
I don’t often write reviews on this blog, but the book I’m reading at the moment is so delightfully good, I felt compelled to share it with you all. The book in question is written by a fellow blogger, Whit Honea of ‘The Honea Express‘ – but before you turn off in your droves, this…
As parents, we’ve always strived to bring our children up as good people. We teach them to be polite and courteous (you have to see Freddie’s “oooh, amazing!” Christmas present reaction – it’s foolproof!), we teach them how to be nice to others – we teach them all the stuff we believe you need to…
With the major disruption and stress of our house move now behind us, the Christmas spirit has well and truly arrived in the Elliss household. The Christmas tree is up and decorated, the tinsel is hung and the wreath has yet to be stolen from our front door. We’ve even had multiple viewings of the…