Gems of Wisdom

Seven inspirational stories and quotations from mothers who are friends and/or relations, and whose words of wisdom I always take note of. Their philosophies are different but they share these qualities:

• dedication to their children
• an understanding that you never give up
• the optimism that is essential when you want to make the best of life

I have changed all the names for fun (though they will recognise themselves). Read on to share their wisdom and then, dear friends, go out and share their stories with your little people.

It's hard not to worry about screen time as it’s almost impossible to have a week go by without any negative mention of the way children interact with technology in the news, whether it be the dangers of new online games, the negative effects of social-media on self-esteem or the wasted hours spent scrolling and swiping and the resulting lack in concentration. Here are Jumping Yak's Gems of Wisdom to help you rise to the screen time challenge and try to strike a happy medium in your home.

Screen-vitamins for junior school children - these are surely what the inventors of the tablet would have pitched to parents in their product launch. This is about quality and not quantity. Embrace the use of handheld devices in your home by encouraging good screen time with apps that will not only help your child to learn but more importantly will allow them to have fun while they do.

If you are lucky enough to have children who are still hand-held-device free, prepare for the inevitable Pandora’s box of apps by setting out the framework for good tablet/phone habits that we all wish we had. This is the ideal time for you to get involved. Right now. Before it’s too late!

Over the years I have become a bit of an expert on sourcing films whether from pavement chatter at pick up, reading a review, watching TV while sewing on name tapes or even while doing a spot of ironing. My knowledge of quality films is, I believe, quite extensive for children aged 13 or younger and if you can get them to sit down, the gems of wisdom list, has something for everyone.

Now, plump up the cushions, settle down with some popcorn and get ready to escape into another world.