Tour operators are expecting a surge in holiday bookings since England crashed out of the World Cup (we lost to Germany 4-1, although more accurately 4-2,  if you didn't know already).

As England supporters will no longer be glued to the TV screens over the next few weeks, holiday bookings have shot up.  Many families were waiting to see how far England progressed in the competition before making their holiday booking.  Now England have been knocked out, people are willing to book their breaks away.

For families without children at school this is great news as holidays are always cheaper during school term time.  Many that thought they'd not get away will now be able to jet off outside of the peak!

Just in case you don't know, the summer term ends around 10th July for fee paying schools, and 23rd July for state schools although school term dates do vary from county to county.

Bon voyage if you're going away, and have fun at home if you're not!

With the football World Cup underway, football fever has gripped the nation - no doubt dad's are looking at their baby and toddler sons, wondering whether they could represent their country in the 2030 World Cup final?!  Well, it might require a bit of imagination, but anything is possible!

Like any sport, football offers family fun - yes, perhaps only the children are on the pitch, but the family can support the team, get to know all the players and help with the logistics of running a young football club.  Football offers a great opportunity for regular exercise and the game will instill physical and social skills in your children.

Children won't be able to join a local football club until they are 5 or 6, although there are some organisations that start introducing children to sport skills from the age of 3 upwards.  Initially they'll be working with balls and running around obstacles to help practice their dexterity.  Just as a toddler is beginning to learn how to control their body, they can begin to practice those skills that will help them on a sports field in later life.

There's an enormous leap from local football team to world cup qualifier, but starting early and developing good motor skills early on will certainly give your little ones a head start over many other aspiring players out there!