Are you dreaming of a better work-life balance, access to educational opportunities, or cultural diversity not found in your home town or country? UK cities attract migrants for a variety of reasons, including job opportunities, free healthcare, and great schooling. Of course, uprooting your kids is not a decision to be taken lightly, especially if you are a single parent and rely on a support system of family and friends. It takes some careful planning to ensure you are moving to a place that works for both you and your children. To help you figure out where to live in the UK with kids, here are the best cities for families in Britain, with a little advice as a bonus:

Best Cities for Families in the UK

The country has countless wonderful cities full of character and charm, offering a good work life balance and excellent educational opportunities for children of all ages. Let’s start with a well-known city in the north of England:

Manchester

Starting strong with Manchester, or quite possibly Greater Manchester (if you are happy to move to the outskirts to save a few £££), which is widely known as the ‘capital of the North’ or ‘mini London’. It’s an excellent place to live for a variety of reasons:

There are plenty of small towns and villages around Manchester that offer reasonably priced housing, such as Middleton, Atherton, Worsley, Eccles, Sale, and so forth, with a median property price of £220k. While there are, of course, more expensive areas in and around Manchester, you can most definitely find a home within your budget. Nothing is more than a 20-30 minute drive away in Manchester, so while Manchester may feel big, it is extremely convenient in the sense that you can live in an area that feels rural and kid-friendly but are never too far from anywhere, with both a vibrant city centre and the beautiful Peak District on your doorstep.

Manchester is a very diverse and vibrant city, home to outstanding universities and colleges, a thriving art and music scene, famous sports grounds, and a multicultural population. With all that in mind, make sure you check that the area you wish to move to has a low crime rate and good infrastructure. This can be particularly important to single parents who might rely on safe public transport for work, school, etc.

Liverpool

The Liverpudlians are known for being super friendly and welcoming. I would even say that Liverpool is more friendly than Manchester as ‘Scousers’ are known to look after their own. While this city in England has its not-so-pretty spots in the city centre, there are some absolute darling villages and spots to live in with kids, such as Bootle, Sefton, Otterspool, and even the Wirral just over the water.

In addition, Liverpool has no less than 130 parks and playgrounds dotted throughout the city, along with acres of lovely green spaces. Take Sefton Park, which is also great for a day out with kids and the family dog. There are also around 143 recreational facilities to be found here.

According to Rentaroof, the average monthly rent in Liverpool is £891, which is quite affordable compared to other cities in the UK. If you are looking to buy, the average house price was approx. £180k in March 2025. This is a very competitive rate in the current climate.

Newcastle Upon Tyne

Newcastle is yet another friendly northern city with an incredible accent and slang that is contagious. Often appearing on lists of the best cities for families in the UK, this kid-friendly place is a great starting point if you are looking to relocate. As may be expected, wages here are relatively low at £33,000 per annum, but this is matched with very much affordable house prices averaging at a stable £147,600 – a bargain compared to Manchester and the south of England.

One of the best parts of living in Newcastle with kids is that it’s considered safe, has good schools and universities, and offers plenty of things to do for families. The city centre itself is walkable and safe and has an array of cultural attractions. Regarding areas to live in with kids, check out Sandyford, Fenham, and leafy Jesmond, all of which are becoming increasingly popular with young families.

Aberdeen

Moving even further north to Scotland, Aberdeen has made a few appearances as one of the top 10 cities for families in the UK. Located on the breathtaking northeast coast of Scotland, this vibrant city is brimming with culture, history, and personality. At the same time, the surrounding mountains make it a great place to live for active and outdoorsy families with a sense of adventure and love of walking. This city really gives families the best of both worlds.

Like Newcastle, this unlikely candidate is where to live in the UK with kids if you are looking for a city with a low crime rate, top schools and colleges, and a close-knit community feel. Aberdeen also has the lowest property price-to-income ratio on our list so far, so you won’t have to pay more to take advantage of everything the city has to offer. While average incomes are much higher at £40,325 than in other cities across the UK, average house prices have stabilised at about £142,300, which is amazing.

Another great city to live in with kids is Sheffield, on the east side of the Peak District. Find out what it’s like to bring up children in Sheffield.

Legal Considerations

There is quite a lot to consider when moving abroad. First of all, you need to decide if you are going to stay temporarily or permanently. This will influence many decisions, for example, whether you move your belongings or put them into storage, rent or buy, etc. Here are some of the things you should take into consideration:

Immigration

If you currently don’t hold British citizenship and are seriously considering relocating to a city in the UK with your children, you need to find out how to obtain a permit to live and work. Depending on your country of origin, this process may be more or less difficult. It depends on your country of origin and your personal circumstances. Whilst some Commonwealth citizens may have a right to abode, others do not. EU citizens, for example, lost their right to live and work in the UK following Brexit. They now need a visa.

Emigrating to the UK, especially in 2025, is likely to pose a few challenges, but it can be done. To smooth the process, immigration solicitors can advise on the process in your specific situation and will be able to help you apply for British citizenship when the time comes. Be sure to start the legal process early, as visas and work permits can take some time to be processed and approved.

Finding a Home

As of today, there are no restrictions on renting or buying a home in the UK if you aren’t a British citizen, so that’s great news. There are very few exceptions, such as the Channel Islands. However, ensure you keep up to date in case of any policy changes.

Taxes

One of the first things you need to find out is how much you will earn after taxes. The best place to get informed is the government’s HMRC website. Moving to the UK doesn’t necessarily mean that your home country won’t expect you to pay taxes. It’s therefore wise to check if you still have tax liabilities in your home country. You might need to see a financial advisor with experience in this field.

Conclusion

Whether you are a single parent looking to relocate from another part of the UK, a family wishing to immigrate, or a parent wanting to settle down after a period of nomadic parenting, we hope our introduction to some of the best cities for families has given you an idea of where to live in the UK with kids, what life in Britain is like, and – most of all -whether it’s for you!

Christmas is just around the corner, and there’s no better way to get into the festive spirit than by decorating your home with your children. While traditional ornaments and lights are timeless choices, adding a personal touch that showcases your small family can make the festive season even more special. If this is your first Christmas as a single parent family, making personalised Christmas decorations can also mark the start of this new chapter.

So, try these fun and unique Xmas decoration ideas that will not only brighten up your home but are also family activities that add a little magic to the Christmas season:

1. Family Photo Garland

This is perhaps one of the most personalised ways to integrate your family into your festive décor. Here’s how:

• Choose some of your favourite family photographs.
• Print them in small sizes, either as regular photos or on sturdier cardstock.
• Attach a ribbon or twine to the back of each photo.
• Hang these DIY photo ornaments on your tree, windows, or walls.

This method allows you to reminisce about special moments every time you see those beautiful photos. You could use shots from favourite family holidays, your kids’ milestones, or any fun theme you can think of. There are so many ways to create personalised ornaments out of photos – just let your imagination run wild and flaunt your family’s personality through these memorable moments.

2. Customised Stockings

Instead of using the same old Christmas stockings every year, why not create new, personalised ones yourself? Your family will appreciate the effort:

• Buy plain stockings and decorate them with your family members’ names using fabric paint or custom embroidered patches.
• Add other personalised elements such as small photos, favourite quotes, or even a footprint for a baby’s first Christmas.

3. Handmade Snow Globes

Homemade snow globes can encapsulate a favourite family memory, and they are not just great Christmas decoration but also make lovely Christmas gifts that won’t break the bank:

• Take a small, clear jar with a tight-fitting lid.
• Inside, place small figurines that represent a cherished family memory, for example the kids building a snowman or riding their sledge. or trip, maybe your first single parent holiday.
• Add water, a dash of glycerine (to make the snow fall slowly), and glitter. Seal the lid, give it a shake, and you have a bespoke snow globe!

4. Personalised Advent Calendar

Instead of the usual chocolates or toys, fill your advent calendar with family-centric tasks or memories, for instance:

• a note prompting everyone to share their favourite holiday memory
• a recipe for a homemade mug cake, your kids can prepare themselves
• a note asking every family member for an act of kindness that day
• a note asking your children to bake cookies for an elderly neighbour
• a note asking your kids to share their funniest Christmas memory
• a request for a cosy family Christmas movie night

Another idea would be to write down 24 reasons why you love your child. These could be personalised to each child and contain little anecdotes or references to their individual personalities or little anecdotes about them. This approach to an advent calendar can become a beautiful daily ritual leading up to Christmas Day – and it’s inexpensive too!

5. Family Recipe Card Garland

Celebrate your family’s culinary traditions by creating a garland from recipe cards.

• Ask every family member to name their favourite dishes.
• Write down or print out some cherished family recipes on cardboard.
• Punch holes at the top of each card.
• String them together with some festive ribbon.

Hang the garland in your kitchen or dining room. It serves as both decoration and a source of inspiration for holiday meals.

6. DIY Family Christmas Wreath

A family wreath is a twist on the traditional holiday wreath.

• Start with a plain wreath.
• Decorate with elements that represent each family member or event, such as a special toy for a child, a ribbon in a favourite colour, or a dried flower from a memorable trip.
• This wreath not only becomes a centrepiece for your door but also tells a story about the family inside.

7. Personalised Christmas Tree Skirt

The base of the tree shouldn’t be neglected. Customise your tree skirt to reflect family milestones.

• Using a plain tree skirt as your canvas, paint or sew on designs that are meaningful to your family. Hand and footprints would work, or paper decorations that your kids have made in the past, such as stars and the moon in silver or gold foil, or other colourful paper decorations that mean something to you and the children.
• You could also paint the skyline of a city you visited together or a timeline of significant dates or milestones over the last 12 months.
• As an alternative to a tree skirt, you could decorate the tree base using sacking, surrounded by pretty, little parcels with everyone’s names on – reminiscent of Santa’s sack of gifts.

For more fun Xmas ideas, why not check out Pinterest?

8. Memory Lanterns

Light up your home with lanterns that tell your family’s story.

• Take some clear lanterns or mason jars.
• Inside each, place a small keepsake or photo.
• Add a tea light or fairy lights to illuminate the contents.

Place them on windowsills, the fireplace mantle, or even outdoors for a heart warming glow.

In Conclusion

Decorating for Christmas is always a delightful activity, but incorporating family into the mix makes it even more heart warming. As the years go by, these personalised Christmas decorations will serve as beautiful reminders of family moments, growth, and love of your small family. So, this festive season, why not start making memories that will last a lifetime with these innovative Xmas decoration ideas?

Christmas is not the only time of year to sit down, unwind and watch some of the greatest films ever produced! Christmas holiday movies are the ideal way to switch off and spend a relaxing evening at home. Whether you are simply looking for a cosy night in or a family activity that adds a little magic at Christmas, one of our all-time favourite movies will surely tickle your fancy.

Ranging from romantic comedy to animated flicks, from uplifting tales to sentimental classics, these films will make you feel happy and cheerful – and not just in the run up to the most wonderful time of the year. So, get your favourite blanket, mug of hot chocolate, and grab a bowl of popcorn, and let’s start watching these 12 must-see holiday films.

1. Home Alone: 1990

• What better way to spend a rainy day with the kids than watching this well-known Christmas favourite that chronicles little Kevin McCallister’s exploits as he protects his home from clueless robbers?
• Did you realize? Up until “The Hangover Part II” overtook “Home Alone” in 2011, “Home Alone” held the record for highest-grossing comedy of all time.

2. Love Actually: 2003

• Eleven intertwined love stories are featured in this wonderful ensemble romantic comedy that is set in London over the holiday season.
• The famous “All I Want for Christmas Is You” moment from the movie was not initially planned. The directors decided to include the sequence after hearing actress Olivia Olson perform the song.

3. Elf: 2003

• In this funny comedy, Will Ferrell plays Buddy, a human raised by elves at the North Pole, who sets out to find his biological father in New York City.
• Fun fact: A David Sedaris sketch for Saturday Night Live served as the basis for the movie “Elf.”

4. The Polar Express: 2004

• An animated adventure movie based on the well-known children’s book about a small boy who boards a magical train and travels to the North Pole.
• Did you realize? Motion-capture technology was employed in the movie to record the actors’ performances and turn them into animated creatures.

5. It’s a Wonderful Life: 1946

• In this timeless classic, George Bailey, a man on the verge of despair, encounters an angel who shows him the effect he has had on other people’s lives.
• Fun fact: Although the movie’s original reviews were unfavourable, it has subsequently grown to be one of the most cherished Christmas films ever made.

6. National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation: 1989

• In this comedy, viewers follow the Griswold family as they get ready for a sizable family Christmas, replete with eccentric in-laws, shoddy décor, and lots of laughter.
• Fun Fact: Juliette Lewis, Beverly D’Angelo, and other well-known actors are among the cast members of the movie.

7. The Nightmare Before Christmas: 1993

• Jack Skellington, the Pumpkin King of Halloween Town, learns about Christmas and wants to bring it to his creepy hometown in this original mashup of Halloween and Christmas
• Did you realize? Tim Burton, who also developed the screenplay for the movie, produced it under Henry Selick’s direction.

8. A Christmas Carol: 2009

• Jim Carrey voices Ebenezer Scrooge in this aesthetically gorgeous rendition of Charles Dickens’ timeless story in which Scrooge is a miserly old man who discovers the real meaning of Christmas.
• Fun fact: The characters in the movie were animated using motion capture technology.

9. Miracle on 34th Street: 1947

• Follow the uplifting tale of a young child who makes friends with a department store Santa Claus and tries to establish his veracity.
• Did you realize? Three Academy Awards were given to the movie, with Edmund Gwenn, who played Kris Kringle, winning one for Best Supporting Actor.

10. The Holiday: 2006

• Cameron Diaz and Kate Winslet play two ladies who trade houses  during the festive period, each hoping their single holidays will help them get over a man, just to discover unexpected love in this romantic comedy.
• Fun fact: Legendary filmmaker Eli Wallach makes a spectacular guest appearance in the movie.

11. Die Hard: 1988

• Although there is some disagreement as to whether “Die Hard” is a Christmas movie, it has become a seasonal favourite for many. John McClane, played by Bruce Willis, is an NYPD cop who defeats a bunch of terrorists by himself at a Los Angeles Christmas party.
• Fun fact: “Die Hard” was inspired by Roderick Thorp’s book “Nothing Lasts Forever.”

12. How the Grinch Stole Christmas: 2000

• In this live-action production of Dr. Seuss’ well-known tale, Jim Carrey plays the cranky Grinch who attempts to spoil Christmas for the joyful inhabitants of Whoville.
• Did you realize? Jim Carrey had to wear a lot of makeup and prosthetics in the movie to become the Grinch.

We hope that some of our 12 must-see Christmas holiday movies take your fancy for a relaxing evening at home. These films, which include delightful Christmas classics like “It’s a Wonderful Life” and funny comedies like “Elf,” perfectly encapsulate the enchantment and excitement of the holiday season but are equally enjoyable at any time of year when you want to spend a quiet night in. So, cuddle up with your loved ones, enjoy some seasonal delicacies, and let these films take you to a world filled with winter bliss.

And whilst we are talking Christmas in the middle of June, if you are still searching for a Christmas party Birmingham private hire venue for 2023, check out the unique party themes offered across the city.

About the author:

Single Parents on Holiday is the number 1 tour operator for single parent holidays abroad. Established in 2005, we have gone from strength to strength and are now offering family holidays for single mums and dads as well as solo holidays for our single parent empty nesters as well as any other solos 40+ travelling without kids. Whether you are single with kids or without, we have the holiday for you!

5 Xmas markets in the UK that you should visit in 2022:

Do you get super excited when you when the most anticipated holiday of the year is just around the corner? In the UK, it’s long been a tradition to enjoy the festive season by doing a series of activities, such as ice skating, visiting Santa’s Grotto, and picking out a Christmas tree with the help of an elf, and, of course – visiting one of the best Christmas markets in the UK in 2022!

Indeed, the UK’s cheerful festive Christmas markets have worked so hard at mirroring the Xmas fairs Germany and Austria are famous for, that they can easily hold their own now. They provide a beautiful and comforting atmosphere once night sets in. Wooden stalls beautifully decorated with twinkling fairy lights, tantalising aromas of sweet dishes and spiced mulled wine, fairground rides and ice-skating rinks will put both parents and children into a festive mood. So, without further ado, here is a roundup of some of the best Christmas markets in the UK this season:

1. German Christmas delights in Birmingham

Birmingham’s Frankfurt Christmas market is regarded by many as the best in the UK, if not Europe. If you crave German foods, such as Bratwurst, Bavarian pretzels, Schnitzel, Stollen, or roasted almonds while sipping mulled wine and listening to holiday carols, this is the place to be. The largest German Christmas market outside of Austria or Germany consists of around 50 stalls offering not just delicious German foods, but also wheat bear, mulled wine, and hot chocolate, as well as toys, gingerbread hearts, jewellery, handcrafted gifts, and magical Xmas decorations.

It’s a very sociable place where group of friends gather to eat, drink and be merry. If you are looking for Christmas party venues in Birmingham, this provides a great setting, if only to start the party off. Live music from Germany and Birmingham contributes to the jolly atmosphere. The market opens as early as beginning of November, so it’s an easy one to fit into your schedule. There are coach trips from Birmingham to Luton as well as London if you need to get back to the capital after visiting.

The Birmingham Frankfurt Christmas market is open from 3 November 2022 to 23 December 2022.

2. Finest craftsmanship at Cardiff

How lovely it would be to support local and independent crafts this season of giving. That’s the spirit that’s alive and kicking in Cardiff. The Christmas market here has been around for close to 30 years now. With over 200 stalls, it brings delight and joy to young and old. Stalls change throughout the month of December, so it’s worth visiting more than once! Handmade soaps, beautiful glass trinkets, wood turned bowels, bespoke jewellery, original artwork, hand thrown pottery, handcrafted quilts and textiles, and traditional pewter gifts – the choice is amazing. Naturally, there is plenty of seasonal food and drink to create a vibrant Christmas atmosphere.

The Cardiff Christmas market opens as early as middle of November and usual runs until 23 December. If you are not local, the market stalls are in the main pedestrianised shopping area: in St. John Street, Working Street, Trinity Street, and the Hayes. Cardiff Central Station is only 5 minutes away, and there are plenty of NCP car parks if you prefer driving. The city also has plenty of accommodation for all budgets, from hostels to luxury hotels if you fancy an overnight stay.

The Cardiff Christmas market runs from 10 November 2022 to 23 December 2022.

3. Winter Wonderland in London’s Hyde Park

Of course, London’s most fabulous Christmas market had make the list! London never fails to amuse both locals and tourist with its grand Winter Wonderland event in Hyde Park. Everything here is on a huge scale, whether it’s the food and drink stalls, the fairground rides, or the circus shows. The Magical Ice Kingdom, a mythical ice palace, is made from 500 tonnes of beautifully sculptured ice and snow, an experience in itself. There really is something for kids of all ages, from the Teletubbies show to scary rides for the teens. Families will enjoy the Zippo’s Circus show and The Snowman cinema experience as well as UK’s largest outdoor ice rink. In the evenings, the younger folk turn up in groups, frequenting the bars and stalls. A cool place (pun intended) is Bar Ice, serving cocktails amongst other fancy drinks. Naturally, like anywhere in London, you can get just about any type of food or drink here at Winter Wonderland, including award-winning 3-course meals in pop up tents!

The mega-sized Christmas market opened to the public around on 18th of November running all the way to the beginning of January. There is an entrance fee, both for the Christmas market and any additional rides, shows, and activities. Nothing is cheap here, but that won’t be a surprise to you if you are a Londoner. If you are looking for a little extravagance, London’s Winter Wonderland is the place for you. Parking is notoriously difficult in this part of London, but there is a Q-Park if you don’t mind the eye-watering rates. Arriving by train and/or tube is probably the more sensible mode of transport if you want to visit.

The Winter Wonderland Christmas Market in Hyde Park is open from 18 November 2022 to 2 January 2023.

4. Festive dishes at Winchester Cathedral

Winchester Cathedral’s Christmas Market just had to be on our list of best Christmas markets in the UK! The historic market town puts on a vibrant fair, which attracts more than 350,000 visitors a year. Its wooden chalets sell authentic seasonal international treats, including stollen, German sausages, raclette, mince pies, mulled wine, and other tipples if you want to get merry. Crafts people sell their unique art here, from paintings and textiles to beautiful Christmas decorations. It’s a great place to shop for Christmas gifts without breaking the bank. Don’t miss the enchanting nativity scene at the far end of the crafts stalls. If you are feeling the chill, you can warm up in the Cathedral Refectory’s café and enjoy a heart-warming meal. To give you an idea of size – Winchester’s Xmas fair has over 100 stalls!

Just like Winter Wonderland, this Christmas market opens on or around the 19^th of November, usually running until 22 December. Thankfully, the popular ice rink is back for 2022, and it’s apparently bigger and better! The most convenient way to get to Winchester is by train. The railway station is only a 10 minute walk from the Christmas market. Driving is not recommended as the town centre tends to be congested with few parking options at this time of year.

Winchester Cathedral Christmas Market runs from 18 November 2022 to 22 December 2022.

5. Manchester Christmas markets

If you live up north or fancy a trip to Manchester, visiting the city in the weeks leading up to Christmas is an experience not to miss. Albert Square is undergoing major renovations, so the main Christmas market in 2022 will be in Piccadilly Gardens, which has been transformed into a beautiful winter garden, already a hit amongst visitors last year. Other Christmas markets not to miss are those in St Ann’s Square, Exchange Street, Market Street, King Street, New Cathedral Street and Exchange Square.

There are over 300 market stalls dotted around the city centre selling festive gifts and mouthwatering foods and drinks, from the traditional Bratwurst to the less authentic paella. Festive gifts include Belgian chocolates, jewellery, Christmas decorations, toys, and many unique arts and crafts. But the Albert Square market is not the only Christmas market in Manchester: There are altogether over 300 stalls dotted across the city in various other locations and all of them have a festive feel about them.

Manchester’s Christmas Markets opens on 10 November 2022 and finish on 22 December 2022.

Whether you live here or are coming to the UK for the holidays, visiting one of the UK’s best Christmas markets during the festive period is a truly magical family activity. Whether you need a unique Christmas gift, want to indulge in sweet German cakes, or just soak up the festive atmosphere, there is plenty to admire and enjoy for both adults and children.

About Single Parents on Holiday:

We are the UK’s leading tour operator for single parent holidays in the UK and abroad. And since many of our single parents now have grown up children, we also organise singles ski holidays for our single parent empty nesters and solo travellers. Whether you book a ski trip or another solo or single parent holiday, you will find, that you will meet a fun, and sociable bunch of people when travelling with us!

Our top 10 tips to make the festive season more affordable for single parents

With the holidays being right around the corner, you are probably starting to make your Christmas shopping list and checking it twice. If you are a single parent and find yourself feeling a tad stressed about your finances this time of year, you are far from being the only one. You don’t have to break the bank to have a wonderful Christmas though. In fact, there are plenty of ways to cut back spending and even save a little extra. If you want to learn how, then rest assured, you’ve come to the right place. Here are some great tips on how to do all your Christmas shopping without breaking the bank.

1. Stick to a list

One way to help save some money during the holidays is by making a list and being strict about sticking to it. Every store you go to will draw you in with their twinkling lights and their glittery merchandise. The festive displays are meant to lure you inside and tempt you to buy things. Often, shoppers will find that they’ve spent a little more than they should have on odds and ends they didn’t really need. So, create a Christmas shopping list in advance and stick to it.

2. Create a budget

Take some time to sit down and do a little maths. Take a look at your expenses, your income, and come up with a Christmas shopping budget and stick to it. Often times we end up buying something because we think it’s adorable or nifty, and we convince ourselves that we have to have it. We realize a little too late that it was probably an unnecessary expense. So, stick to whatever budget you create for yourself and your family. If you stick to a spending plan and don’t go over it, you won’t have to worry about how you’re going to make ends meet later on.

3. Put money aside

It may sound a little obvious, but putting small, even tiny amounts of money aside for Christmas throughout the year can soon add up. This can be the small change from your weekly shopping, or the money you have saved by getting an item on sale. Anything that is small enough for you not to miss it, should go in a jar for your Christmas shopping. You will be surprised how things can add up. The difficult part is starting early and being disciplined. If you are struggling with this, set up a standing order into your savings account. Many of our clients find it easiest to pay for their singles ski holidays in installments rather than  having to save up for a one off balance payment.

4. Look for bargains

Consider all the places that you’ll likely do your Christmas shopping at. Chances are, they’ll have sales during the holiday season, where you’ll be able to find bargains on all kind of goods. Starting early and taking advantage of Black Friday or Cyber Monday offers, for example, could save you a small fortune! It’s a wonderful way to get all the bang for your buck. And don’t forget that kids’ presents don’t have to cost a lot, especially when they are young. Inexpensive little items, such as Santa’s Magic Key will add a touch of magic to your children’s Christmas without breaking the bank.

5. Consider a credit card

Let’s face it, times are a little tough right now. Money is tight. If it’s too late to save up for Christmas, consider putting your holiday purchases on a credit card. A credit card will allow you to get all your Christmas shopping done with the luxury of paying it back in more convenient and smaller increments later on. It can help if you’re really in a pinch this holiday season. BUT: Set yourself a limit and work out, when and how you can pay the money back. You don’t want to end up in debt for the rest of the year.

6. Charity shops

Many practical gifts can be found at second-hand stores. Charity shops can have all kinds of fun shopping finds for a fraction of the price that you’d find them at in regular stores. It is a great way to find cool gifts at heavily discounted prices that look brand new but did not please or fit the original owner.

7. Make it yourself

If you are crafty and have the time, consider making your own  family Christmas gifts for relatives and friends. Who doesn’t love a fresh baked batch of cookies or some homemade jam?! If you’re creatively inclined, you can even make books, decorations, and all sorts of things from scratch. Get the kids to make their own Christmas cards for family and friends. These gifts may take some time and effort to put together, but you can’t beat the love that is put into a homemade gift.

8. Get gifts for free

Ok, so your adult friends might not be impressed by a preloved gift, but younger kids won’t mind if a toy had a previous owner. Many families clear out toys their children have grown out of for free on local Facebook pages, toy banks, or freecycling sites. Many wooden toys, such as play kitchens, car garages, or doll houses can be made to look like new with a lick of paint in your kid’s favourite colour. Bicycles are often barely used before kids grow out of them. So, have a browse around your local pages to see what you can pick up for free leaving you more money to spend on the rest of your kids’ Christmas list.

9. Get a quick loan

If your credit isn’t exactly stellar, you might qualify to get a loan quickly. These loans can help you get cash in a hurry, without a whole lot of rigorous background checks. You might not get a whole lot of cash from these types of loans, but they can still help take the financial load off of your shoulders during the holiday shopping dash.

10. Donate blood

Do something good whilst earning a little extra cash for Christmas. Blood and plasma are lifesaving, and you can get paid a bit of money for your time. Many organisations don’t pay but look for paid blood donation near you and you will find that many research facilities reimburse you for your time and travel expenses.

With all these creative ways to save and even earn, your Christmas shopping should be a little bit easier. Happy holidays to you and yours, and happy shopping!

If you enjoyed reading our post, why not browse our website? Single Parents on Holiday specialise in single parent family holidays as well as singles ski holidays for single parent empty nesters and solo travellers who lack a partner for their travels. You can also subscribe to our Single Parent Blog, to make sure you don’t miss any of our new posts on topics such as single parent finances, parenting resources, single parent dating, the best travel ideas for single parents and much more.

Get into the festive spirit this holiday season with these fun family activities:

With everyone’s favourite holiday season fast approaching, are you starting to crave those festive activities all families love to do during the Christmas period? Or do you find the thought of Christmas daunting because it is the first time you will spend this time of year as a single parent family?

It’s only natural to feel a few twinges of anxiety during the festive season when all you can think about is how to survive Christmas as a single parent. But any change can be turned into a positive, so focus your energy on making this a special time for yourself and your kids by embracing change and establishing your own, new family traditions – and they don’t all have to cost much. To get you started, here are some ideas that your kids will love and that will spread a little extra magic in your family home in the run up to Christmas:

1. Snuggle up and watch a festive film together

As those cold evenings roll in, all you might want to do is stay indoors, and keep warm. With this comes the perfect activity to pass the time in the cold December evenings. Why not snuggle up on the sofa together, get comfy, and stick on a classic family Christmas movie to get you all into a festive mood? Disney has made some truly magical movies that both you and the kids will enjoy equally. Relax, cuddle up, laugh, cry, and go on a journey together. So, go on, start the holiday season with a festive movie night. It doesn’t have to cost anything and is an easy way to get everyone into the Christmas spirit. Naturally, no movie night with kids is complete without pizza, popcorn, and a box of Lindt chocolates.

2. Adopt an elf on the shelf

Back in 2005 a Scandinavian mum and daughter team wrote a book about their elf on the shelf family tradition. This magical tradition has really gained momentum in the UK over the last few years. If you haven’t heard of it yet, the activity goes on for the whole month of December. The elf is sent from the North Pole to check if the kids have been ‘naughty or nice’. At night it goes back to the North Pole to report to Santa and is back in a different position around the house the next day. The kids look for the elf in the morning to see what he or she got up to during the night. There is only one rule: Children are not allowed to touch the elf.

The elf might find itself in many funny places and predicaments – let your imagination go wild! This is a hilarious festive activity that younger kids will adore, and a family tradition often continued for years to come.

3. Visit a Christmas market with your kids

Visiting a Christmas Market is a truly magical experience for children and adults alike. Beautifully decorated stalls, the tantalising aroma of mulled wine and sweet cakes, twinkling fairy lights and festive Christmas music, horse carousels, and maybe even an ice-skating rink – all that and more will take the magic of Christmas to a whole new level.

From Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park to the Frankfurt Christmas market in Birmingham, there are plenty of Christmas markets in the UK, no matter where you live. It’s a wonderful family afternoon or evening out that your children won’t forget for a long time, and you don’t have to spend a lot of money if you don’t want to. Just soak up the atmosphere, as you sip a hot drink and eat sausages, and admire the pretty stalls and decorations. You could also buy a few Christmas presents or a little something for your family home that will remind you all of your special family day out.

Be sure to check beforehand what’s on offer and pick the right Christmas market for your family. Whether you are thrill seekers, ice skaters, or dedicated foodies, there’s sure to be a Christmas market for you in close travel distance where you can absorb the festive cheer.

4. Have a family game night

If you have older children who might find the previous suggestions too mushy, why not turn up the heat with a competitive family game night? Nothing makes time fly by quite as much as an intense night of games with Christmas treats and some homemade (alcohol free) mulled wine. You could keep it classic with well-known card or board games, or you could buy the latest Game of the Year to make it that bit more special. Just beware, there are some excellent strategic games on the market, that will quickly have you all addicted!

Or why not embark on a murder mystery together? You could host your own murder mystery party either by having a real life version with your  children or by hosting a virtual party and including other family members or even some of your kids’ mates. You could even put your older kids in charge of the whole organisation. They will love being in charge and choosing from some of the cool Christmas murder mystery game kits out there.

Why not add a twist and include a small prize for the overall winner to really ensure your kids bring their A game? Family games are a great way to spend quality time with your children and create some fun memories in the run up to Christmas.

5. Making, baking, and decorating

If you have decided to change things around a little this Christmas, why not ask the kids to help you decorate the home for Christmas? DIY Christmas decorations can look beautiful and don’t need to cost a thing. So why not get creative and spend an afternoon making your own Christmas decorations, advent calendar, or Christmas crackers? This is something both younger and older kids will thoroughly enjoy with more or less help from you depending on their age. It’s a win-win: Not only will you get to spend much needed bonding time with your kids, but you will also save money. With several helpers, getting the house ready for Christmas will take a fraction of the time.

Decorating the tree together is a favourite Christmas activity in many families, but have you thought about baking the tree decorations with your kids? This could be a new family tradition and make a nice change: Just imagine your kids’ excitement when they decorate the tree with their own Gingerbread men, stars, trees, and angels glazed with icing and sprinkled with hundreds and thousands. Candy canes and other sweets tied onto strings also look pretty if you don’t fancy baking. If you want to surprise your little ones, you could also add personalised tree decorations? Imagine your kids’ surprise when they see their names on the tree. They also make magical keepsakes – especially if it’s your first Christmas as a single parent family or the first one in a new family home.

6. Christmas lights

Another free activity for young kids in the run up to Christmas would be a visit of the beautifully decorated houses in your neighbourhood. Chances are you don’t go out much after dark in winter when you have young kids, so you might not have noticed the beautiful festive displays. If you don’t want to drive or walk around aimlessly, check your local community pages, and plan your route. Every neighbourhood has at least one house that really pushes the boat out, with Santa and his reindeer on the roof, fairy lights everywhere, and countless fun and merry musical figurines in the front garden. These houses are really trying to spread the festive cheer and sometimes just ask for a small voluntary donation towards their electricity bill. Wrap the kids up warm and head out as the sun sets taking torches or a lantern along, just for a bit of extra magic.

Alternatively, you could take the kids to your local “Xmas Lights Switch On” event. Most villages and towns make it quite an event now with a little fun fair, a kiddie ride or two, some Christmassy arts and crafts stalls and of course some yummy Christmas treats and cakes for sale. For younger children even the smallest village lights switch on will feel rather magical.

To sum up…

I am sure you can think of lots more ways to make Christmas feel extra special this year. We understand that this time of year can make single parents feel anxious and lonely, especially when they have to share the kids over the festive period. So, make the time you have with your kids count and add a little extra magic with some fun family activities that you know both you and the kids will enjoy. Don’t feel they have to be the stereotypical stuff other families do. You are your very own family unit, and you only have to compromise with the little people now. So, go on, make time for some family activities this Christmas that you will all truly enjoy.

Please note that this is a sponsored post.

Single Parent? Here is how to avoid the holiday blues at Christmas

“So, what are your plans this Christmas?” How many times have you been asked this in the run up to ‘the most wonderful time of the year’? For single mums and dads the month of December can seem daunting. You feel like everyone else is looking forward to days of family festivities with partners, parents, and children.  This can make single parents feel sad, lonely, and anxious. As a parent, you want to make Christmas perfect for your children,  but when you are separated, divorced or bereaved, this can be incredibly hard. Christmas brings back memories of happier days and can make many single mums and dads feel lonely, angry, resentful and/or sad – and often the same is true for your older children. But how can you avoid the blues in the run up to Christmas, on Christmas Day, and the holidays overall? Here are our top tips on how to survive Christmas as a single parent:

1. Establish new Christmas traditions

Trying to replicate the Christmas of the past is going to unearth a lot of emotions, so why not shake things up a little and establish some new traditions? How about some family activities that will add a little magic this Christmas:

• take the kids to Christmas tree woods where they can choose their own tree with the help of elves
• go on the Polar Express
• find an ice skating rink
• go to a lantern festival (magical!)
• visit a Christmas market
• make a Gingerbread house
• get an elf on the shelf

Whatever you decide – let go of the old life and start something new! Don’t let your childhood or marriage memories dictate how you and your kids should spend the run up to Christmas or Christmas Day itself. Re-invent Christmas. Your new traditions will strengthen the new, special bond with your kids that only single mums and dads have.

2. Involve the kids in the planning

Ask your children how they would like to celebrate Christmas this year, for example, which foods they would like to eat on Christmas Day and how they would like to spend the rest of the day. Involve them in the planning, starting with how to decorate your home and the tree in the run up to Christmas. Decide together how to spend the time over the holidays. This could be deciding which favourite Christmas movies to watch,  which activities to fit in, and which friends to invite. One of the perks of being a single parent is that you have a much closer relationship with your kids now. Involving them in the decision-making, will give you all a new sense of freedom and responsibility and will make Christmas special as everyone will get to do a bit of what they like. Doing things differently from those Christmases when mum and dad were both there, can becomes a step towards a new way of living as a one parent family. There is no need, and it’s not advisable, to try and re-enact previous years. Things won’t ever be the same, and the kids know that.

3. Plan ahead and invite friends or family

Whatever you do, it’s important to be organised. Plan the holidays to make sure you are busy whether the kids spend all, or only part of the holidays with you. There is so much to do out there, and so many single mums and dads in the same situation at Christmas.

If you have parents or siblings, you might want to spend Christmas at theirs this year, or, if you love hosting, invite someone over to yours for Christmas Day. If you have no family nearby, why not invite friends over? Many single parent have friends who are closer to them than family, so why not spend some of the festive period together? Just don’t leave it to the last minute, as everyone will already have made plans if you do. Few people want to be alone at Christmas. You might even have friends who are single themselves, possibly another single mum or single dad with kids, who will appreciate the invite. If you are a new single parent, then make it your New Year’s resolution to meet other single parents for friendship and support.

4. Take the kids on holiday

If you have the budget, going on a holiday or on a mini break can be a godsend. It will take your mind off the fact that there is someone special missing in your life, and a break from the past and your daily routine will do you and the children a world of good. Aside from that, going away means no shopping, cooking, cleaning and stressing over visiting relatives and friends. The excitement of travelling at Christmas and going somewhere new, will be the best medicine for all of you, and, naturally, a holiday will strengthen the bond with your kids further as you find a new dynamic as a single parent family.

To ensure you have adult company and playmates for your child/ren  on holiday, you could book a single parent ski holiday. If you are first time skiers, this will be an amazing experience for you and the kids, and might turn into a joint new hobby for years to come. It also means you get to meet lots of single mums and dads, and can start building a support network. And your children, aside from having instant friends in the group, will be able to see that there are many other families in the same situation as them. This will help build your children’s confidence after divorce or the loss of a parent.

5. Sharing Christmas with an ex

If you have an ex who is involved in their kids’ lives, you will probably share Christmas. This can be painful, especially if your kids go off to the other parent on Christmas Day or Boxing Day. Whatever your arrangements over the kids are, you need to think about your kids’ happiness at seeing their other parent. And look at the bright side: You might get out of cooking a roast for hours, or will have time to clean up the mess left by your own celebrations with the kids, get some well-deserved sleep, and best of all: You get to relax and have some much-deserved time to yourself.

Do make arrangements with your ex early and communicate: Who will have the kids when, who takes them where, and will it be mum or dad who gets them the new bike or scooter. You don’t have to go into detail about how you spend your time with them, but you can save your kids from getting the same presents twice and the awkwardness of having to keep a happy face to please mum or dad.

Sharing the kids at Christmas can work really well as it gives both parents quality time with the kids and little time for the blues. You just need to approach it with a positive mindset. And if you alternate years and do not have the kids at Christmas one year, why not go on a group holiday for single travellers? You could have a lovely time with other adults in the same or similar situation.

6. Check out local events

Whether you are by yourself or with the kids, you will be surprised how much there is on offer on and around Christmas! Book tickets for your local pantomime, choir, ice-skating rink, or UK Christmas market, or help out at your local soup kitchen. You could even go on a city cruise, or, providing you live in travel distance, a Discover London tour on Christmas Day (through the deserted streets of Mayfair and Soho – a unique experience) with stops for breakfast and pub lunch. Check out the flyers that come through your door, your Facebook community pages, or google things to do at Christmas near you.

7. Let go of expectations

Christmas is supposed to be a special family celebration and undoubtedly puts us all under pressure for that reason. Relax! Christmas is what you make of it. Enjoy quality time with your kids and don’t feel like you have to do things a certain way. So, why not treat yourself to a cleaning service? Maid Service NYC advise that you hire a professional home cleaner if you need it: You are a hard working single parent, and you deserve a break just like anyone else. If you don’t fancy cooking that roast at Christmas, get a takeaway you will all enjoy. Or cook your kids’ favourite meal – even if it’s pancakes!

8. Don’t overspend

Most single mums and dads will at some point, usually immediately after a separation, feel the pinch. Don’t feel under pressure to buy. But whatever you do, don’t touch that credit card if you have no immediate means of paying it off! Young children will be happy with inexpensive Christmas gifts, and older children will understand that you are not in a position to buy the latest craze. There are plenty of ways single parents can make the Christmas season more affordable without breaking the bank.

9. Give yourself a makeover

If this is your first Christmas as a single parent, you might feel deflated, lonely, or anxious. Do something that will make you will better about yourself. This could be a trip to the hair dresser, buying a new dress, or trying out a new look. Psychologists have found that applying makeup is therapeutic, both because it will make you will feel better about yourself, but also because it’s an expressive form of art. So, why not look for some stunning Christmas makeup ideas, such as shimmering gold eyeshadow, a bold red lip, and a touch of festive sparkle to refresh your look?

10. Relax & Reflect

Whether you are a working parent or a full-time parent, you probably never stop. You are on duty 24/7.  Many single parents don’t know how to relax or what to do with themselves when they suddenly have ‘downtime’, especially after the insanity of Christmas preparations is over!

Having a quiet time with the kids or even time to yourself over the bank holidays might lead to feelings of anxiety and depression. Try to use this time to relax and reflect positively on all the things you have achieved in the past year and think about what you want to do in the coming year. Be proud of yourself and all you have mastered by yourself. If you really feel at a low, don’t hesitate to ask for professional help. From helplines and counselling, to life coaching for single parents – there are people who will listen and understand!

Christmas is about family, putting a smile on a kids’ faces and sharing magical moments. It does not require romance. Whatever you do for Christmas, remember that your kids will value the time you spend together and the effort you make – even if they are too little to show it or too hormonal to admit it. Toddler or teen, your kids will remember Christmas with mum or dad and this is why it will be worth not just putting on a brave face and getting through Christmas but trying to enjoy it together as the new family unit that you are now.

Our Single Parent Blog:

If you’re a newly single parent or feeling alone in the run up to Christmas, check out these posts, which might help you:

• A Survival Guide for Newly Single Parents
• Single Parents: How to Look After Your Mental Health
• Best Children’s Books About Single Parent Families
• Christmas Shopping without Breaking the Bank

How to Have a Stress-Free Christmas Holiday as a Single Parent

As a single parent, you don’t need to be told that Christmas is a tough season to experience. It is an emotional roller coaster even when every family member is trying to make the best of a difficult situation. But you don’t have to lose your sanity to survive Christmas as a single parent. Many single parents love the idea of going away over the festive period. It takes their mind off the fact that the special someone is missing in their lives – a partner to spend the holidays with and enjoy the smiles on their kids’ faces as they open their presents. But as much as getting away at Christmas can be a welcome escape, the thought of travelling alone with children during one of the busiest times of the year might also be intimidating. Nevertheless, as long as you are well-prepared and stay in the right frame of mind, travelling at Christmas alone with children can be a positive experience. So, without further ado, here’s a single parent’s guide to staying sane when travelling at Christmas:

Get Permission from the Other Parent

If you are flying solo with the kids at Christmas or indeed at any time, then the legal issues can get a bit sticky. To avoid issues at passport control, it is important to get permission from the other parent, notifying the authorities that you are taking your children abroad. This is something you must do whether you are married, separated or divorced and whether you share the same surname as your kids or not. The only exception is where you have a child arrangement order from a court, which allows you to travel abroad for up to 28 days. If there is any confusion at the airport or borders, having the right paperwork on you will save you a great deal of hassle and possibly missing your flight. It is not unusual for airlines to stop you from checking in without the correct documents. Even if you haven’t had any issues in the past, beware that both airlines and passport control are becoming very strict and passports, birth certificates and divorce certificate alone are often not enough.

Book Your Seats Ahead of Time

There is nothing more frustrating to board your flight only to be told that you can’t sit together. Sure, the flight attendants may eventually arrange it so that you are all together but it can end up being rather annoying for everyone involved. Try to handle this first when booking the tickets. Also keep in mind that many airlines will charge you extra for seat allocation. So, if you are trying to save money, this may not be a priority. It will, however, cut down on the stress of getting your kids into their seats and might just help you stay sane.

Handle Everything Online

The check-in counter at the airport is what single parent nightmares are made of. So, it stands to reason that avoiding this at all costs should be a priority. This can be managed by checking in online – if this service is applicable to the airline you are flying. You can then check in up to 24 hours before your flight and print out your boarding passes. Then, you and your kids will not be expected to show up at the airport quite as early making your travel at Christmas less stressful.

Pack and Dress Your Kids in Visible Clothing

This is a useful tip when packing your kids’ suitcases as well as when you are travelling with them. The first thing you should do is to pack highly visible clothes. The more they stand out, the better. This way, you will be able to tell where your kids are with a single glance. In case they don’t have many of these items, go shopping for fluorescent hats or vests that they can wear while you are out and about.

For the actual flight – brightly coloured pyjamas are the way to go. First off, they are noticeable, even if your kids decide to do a runner. Secondly, they are comfortable and you don’t have to worry about changing your little one if they do (hopefully) decide to take a nap.

Take Further Safety Precautions

As a single parent, your natural state would be worry, and this is only amplified when you are travelling. After all, it can often seem like danger is lurking behind every corner. Fortunately, there are a number of remedies for this. If your kids are too young to memorise names, phone numbers, or hotel addresses, ID bands will be a good substitute. You can note down important contact information on these so that a Good Samaritan will know how to reach you.

Hanging a whistle around their neck can also alert you to your little one’s location, should you get separated. Another safety tip to remember is to take photographs. Take a picture of your child every day, once they have been dressed. Make sure it is clear and visible. This way, you will have something to show people if your children get separated.

Bring Lots of Activities

Somehow, when you are travelling, your kids’ energy levels seem to reach improbable heights. This can wear down even the calmest of people. To prevent getting angry with your children and to help you stay sane, it is best to provide as much entertainment as you can. Single parent ski holidays are a great way to tire the kids out and keep them entertained. You can ski with the adults in the group whilst the children are at ski school. It’s a win win all around. If single parent activity holidays are not your thing, then make sure to take colouring books, puzzles, games, and anything else that you can think of will come in handy for the daytime and evenings. Provide a small knapsack for each child where they can easily carry and access their goodies during the journey, on trips, or at the beach. Snacks, as you can imagine, will also be a welcome distraction.

Give Yourself a Break – Take the Easy Route

You probably have a few rules when it comes to screen time and technology. Well, you are only human, so it is fine to bend these rules a bit since your kids will be cooped up in one place for a long time. To avoid any future tantrums, make certain they understand that this is a special occasion.

Then, load up the tablets, computers, or similar devices with games and movies. If you are lucky, this should stop even the most grievous of arguments or crying jags in their tracks. At the very least, the other passengers on your flight will be thankful for it.

Be Prepared

Last but not least, you will need to be prepared for anything your kids or the universe might throw at you. This is particularly vital if you are travelling to an area where you don’t speak the language and may not be certain of what you will require. So, stock up on medication that your kids might need. If you are packing liquids, ensure that you are following airport security restrictions. Bandages, colourful plasters, and ointments are a good idea as well. You will also need to arm yourself with insect repellent and sprays that can help relieve bug bites if you decide to travel somewhere hot this Christmas. Make sure these products are safe for children.

There is no denying that there are bound to be a few tears and tantrums while travelling – some of these may even come from you. However, just remember to keep a cool head and to be as patient as possible with your kids when you travel with them this Christmas. This is all anyone can ask of you. Also, try to have fun, as this is what your children will remember most about the trip.