One craft that we are extremely partial to is updating t-shirts and sweatshirts to give them a new lease of life. Not only is this a fun kid-centric activity, but it also leaves you with winter-friendly clothes, which are always in demand.

Additionally, t-shirt and sweatshirt crafts give kids a sense of pride in what they’ve created and help with fine motor skills. These crafts also lead to winter-friendly wardrobe items that you won’t have to fight your kids to put on.

So, now that we’ve sold you on the fun and excitement that t-shirt and sweatshirt-making hold, let’s give you three ideas for DIY t-shirt projects for the kids to do this winter season.

With all of the crafts we’re about to mention, we have a few guiding rules:

Always protect your surfaces with newspaper, craft paper, old fabric, or any protective barrier that will preserve your tables, countertops, floors, and furniture. While many fabric paints and fabric markers may say that they are semi-permanent or non-stainable, it can be challenging to get these paints or markers off of couches or out of floors without causing damage.

Remain aware of your kids’ ages and abilities. If you have small kids, be careful with paints and other materials that can easily be ingested or placed in the eyes and ears. For anything like scissors or glue, 12 years old is usually the age at which kids can safely use these tools with limited supervision, but we recommend keeping kids under 12 away from anything too sharp or too hot.

Have fun! The best part about crafts is that they offer a fun way to bond with family and friends. Make sure that you and your kids have fun and stay creative throughout the craft, and don’t be afraid to make your adult version of these winter shirts.

One of our favourite t-shirt or sweatshirt-making ideas for kids is turning an old t-shirt or sweatshirt into a snowman-adorned winter staple.

For this craft, you can find everything you need at your local craft store. You will need

• White puffy paint
• Glitter
• Fabric markers
• Any other embellishments (rhinestones, fabric pieces, etc.) that your kids want to include.

Using the puffy paint as your base, you can have your kids make fun snowmen (or snowwomen!) that are washable, durable, and textured to create a fun look.

Once the paint has been applied and has dried, decorate the rest of the shirt with glitter to give the appearance of a snowy wonderland. Embellish your design using things like fabric markers or rhinestones to personalise your shirt and to let your tiny artists channel their creative power.

We love this snowy tribute to winter, and, as a bonus, puffy paint is highly tactile and great for kids who enjoy some sensory fun throughout the day.

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Tie Dye is a time-tested fan favourite for a reason. Tie-dye is cheap and fun and creates phenomenal colours and patterns.

For a unique winter tie-dye masterpiece, you can either go with a frozen, snowy theme (think blues, greys, silver, gold), or you can go with darker, more muted colours (browns, blacks, dark greens), OR you can take things in a holiday direction with green, red, gold, and white.

Whatever you select, have fun with your patterns. Most tie-dye kits come with pattern suggestions (spirals, camo-themed, etc.), but you can make these projects your own.

One idea that we love is using some masking tape to create winter-themed shapes. From leaves, stars, and presents to holiday trees and snowmen, there’s no end to the possibilities within this fun craft.

One note when doing tie-dye: use gloves, because the dye is permanent and can be challenging to get off of fingers and out from under your nails.

One unique and creative kid-friendly DIY t-shirt idea is to create a wearable snow globe.

This project does involve glue (either fabric glue or a hot glue gun), so make sure to keep younger children away from hot tools or toxic glue.

All you need to create a wearable snowglobe is:

• An old t-shirt or sweatshirt
• Square of plastic that you will create a pouch out of.

For the plastic pouch we like repurposing clear pencil cases, waterproof phone pouches, or similar items.

Gluing one plastic edge to the shirt, let your kids fill the pouch with fun items like mini snowmen, trees, or whatever else they like. Add glitter at the end to create a “snow” effect, then seal everything up. Afterward, the pouch should have some air and space, and your kids can watch their glittery snow globe work its magic whenever they move.

For some more fun, let your kids paint or draw on the rest of the shirt to make this winter shirt their own.

When it comes to DIY t-shirt and sweatshirt crafting ideas, there’s no limit to the fun and creativity out there. Just remember, always keep a watchful eye on younger t-shirt makers and keep any dangerous or heat-centric tools high up and away from little artists.

Most importantly, have fun with these crafts and enjoy a new wardrobe filled with unique and personalised winter-friendly items.

Before undertaking any home renovation, set a budget and plan the work. You don’t have to undertake a full renovation right away, you could work on a room by room basis to make it feel less overwhelming.

If the budget stretches to it, employing an architect or interior designer can really help. They will have ideas and suggestions that you may not have thought of and will usually have trade contacts that can ultimately save you on the overall cost of your renovation project.

Getting a layout that works for the way you live is the most important goal when you undertake a home renovation.

This does not always mean extending. Sometimes moving a door, wall or window can open up a space to be more useful for you.

Or you could consider repurposing a room. For instance if you have a playroom space and the kids are all grown up, how about turning it into a study, pantry or utility room? An underused bedroom could become a walk in wardrobe, freeing up space in your main bedroom to make it feel more restful. Or a garage could be converted to house a new shower room and downstairs bedroom. The possibilities really are endless.

From improving insulation to installing a more energy efficient boiler, retrofitting your home is one of the best ways to save money and increase the value.

When we renovated our home our builder wanted us to put in an oil fired central heating system. Having lived for many years in the UK we were more used to gas and insisted that this is what we wanted.

We are delighted with the results. We can not only heat our home efficiently but we also use gas for cooking too. Despite living in the city centre, we are not on a gas mains, so we had a Calor bulk gas tank installed. Best of all, they monitor our usage and re-fill automatically when it’s getting low. I really couldn’t imagine switching to anything else now.

We also installed solar panels and from May to October we get enough hot water for 2 adults and 2 kids.

Even if you currently have an oil fired central heating system, by simply changing your boiler and tank, you can easily move to gas. And Calor are currently offering new gas central heating customers a FREE boiler and Smart Energy Monitor when they move. (T&C’s apply)

Unless you have purchased your home from new, and even then if you have been living in it for awhile, undertaking a renovation gives you the opportunity to put your own stamp on it.

From a simple decoration job to updating kitchens and bathrooms, you can inject your personality into your home. The most cost efficient way is to change soft furnishings such as rugs, curtains, blinds or lighting. Also changing or getting a company in to deep clean carpets or sanding floors and revarnishing them will all make a huge difference to the look and feel of a space.

Changing the colour on walls, doors, skirting boards and ceilings will give your home a fresh new look. Wallpaper is also making a comeback and can be a great solution to add colour and texture to truly transform a space quickly.

Look for clever ways to increase natural light when doing a renovation. Updating windows and doors or making openings bigger or adding roof lights are all great ways to improve natural light coming into your home.

Adding mirrors and using reflective colours on walls can work too. Or removing curtains and adding blinds that are hung above the window or door opening can help get more light into a space.

Consider adding glass doors into your garden where you currently only have a window. This can help bring the outside in.

If you have space, adding a patio with the option to add an awning will increase the likelihood of you using the garden in autumn and spring when the weather may not always be great. Invest in a flame tower or a gas patio heater and your garden can be another room all year round.

When we renovated our home, the best part of the whole process, apart from getting a lovely home at the end of it, was that it made me declutter!

We all have items in our homes that we no longer need. Tackle decluttering room by room and have different plies for donations, sell, keep and bin! Be ruthless, if you haven’t used something for 12 months the chances are you don’t need to keep it! Also think if it will go in your new space, if not it may be time to donate or sell.

If you are going to sell items, take good photos and post them on reputable websites. If you have a lot of stuff to sell, set up an email account to use for this purpose. Price everything fairly and state whether items need to be collected or if you are willing to mail or deliver.

Everything from mattresses to toys and games, soft furnishings, kitchens, bathrooms and furniture are traded online and not only are you getting paid for your unwanted items, but you are giving them a new lease of life.

Set a budget at the outset and stick to it. As well as considering how much you can afford, look at the ceiling price of similar homes in the area and don’t exceed that value.

The cost of renovating your home can vary wildly. Make sure to get at least 3 quotes for every job you want done. Read the small print to ensure you are comparing like for like.

Once you are satisfied that you have the right person for the job, put a contract in place and keep a tight reign on the budget.

Even a simple renovation can add considerable value to your home. But ultimately the aim is to make your home to best it can be for you and your family to enjoy.

Many of Ireland’s top attractions, and plenty of local ones, offer the option to buy an annual family pass or membership that would make the perfect gift. For most, as long you visit a handful of times in the year, it is better value than paying each time you visit.

So this year, rather than buying single gifts for family or friends, you could consider gifting an annual family pass to somewhere they love. They will get a full 12 months of enjoyment from your gift and get to visit some amazing places.

So whether they prefer action, adventure, nature or history, there are lots of options available. Take a look at some of our favourite annual family pass options below.

When you become a member of the Irish Heritage Trust you will enjoy:

• Unlimited entry to Irish Heritage Trust properties at Fota House Arboretum & Gardens (Cork), The National Famine Museum | Strokestown Park (Roscommon) and Johnstown Castle Estate, Museum & Gardens (Wexford).
• Garden, museum, and tour access across the properties.
• Discounted and free events across Irish Heritage Trust houses, gardens, and museums.

Cost: €150 for 2 Adults plus dependent children living at the same address

Compared to a normal family ticket? A day visit to Johnstown Castle Gardens for 2 Adults & 4 children costs €38.

Where to buy: Buy online on www.irishheritagetrust.ie

Season Ticket holders enjoy access to the Irish National Stud and Gardens all year round.

They also hold exclusive member-only events where you can meet the first of the foals before anyone else, enjoy exclusive member-only children’s events throughout the year and get news and updates on your favourite foals.

Cost: €150 for two adults and up to four children

Compared to a normal family ticket? A family ticket for 2 adults + 2 children (aged 5-16) costs €42.00

Where to buy: You can buy the family season pass on their website.

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Annual passes for the Treetop Walk & Viewing Tower at Beyond the Trees Avondale include unlimited visits throughout the year. The famous Slide is subject to both weather and capacity, and doesn’t operate during wet weather. It costs €2 per go on the Viewing Tower slide, payable at the slide on the day. U6’s slide for free, however they must be accompanied on the slide by a paying adult.

Cost: €105 for 2 Adults + up to 3 kids (aged 4-17) of €75 for 1 adult + up to 3 kids

Compared to a normal family ticket? A family ticket for 2 adults & up to 3 kids (under 18) costs €40 or €25 for 1 adult + up to 3 kids.

Where to buy: On their website www.beyondthetreesavondale.com or at the ticket office.

An annual pass to Birr Castle Demesne gives you:

• Unlimited access to the Gardens, Science Galleries and Treehouse Playground Area, within the public opening hours.
• 10 kilometres of walking trails to enjoy.
• Free membership for children age 3 years and under with any family membership.
• Regular email newsletter keeping you up to-date with news and events.
• 10% discount in the Gift Shop.
• Dogs allowed. (Subject to T&C outlined under “For our dog owners”).
• 4 Complimentary guest passes with each individual 12-month membership taken out.

Cost: €82.00 for a 12-Month Adult Membership (18-64 years), €69.50 for a 12-Month Additional Adult Membership (18-64 years) and €22 for a 12-Month Child Membership (4-17 years)

Compared to a normal family ticket? A family ticket for 2 adults + 2 children costs €30.

Where to buy: On their website www.birrcastle.com or at the ticket office.

At the moment Lough Key doesn’t offer an annual membership or season ticket but we wanted to include their car parking pass which can be purchased from the Visitor Centre for only €35, and is valid for one year from day of purchase. There are no limitations on this pass, it can be used as often as you like, so works out at fantastic value if you plan to visit regularly for picnics and activities.

You also get free parking at Lough Key when you spend €20 or more on admissions to their attractions or in the restaurant, and they do also offer combination day passes for activities to save you money.

Brigit’s Garden have an annual family pass which gives:

• Unlimited entry to Brigit’s Garden for 12 months when normal charges apply (Special Events excluded)
• 5% discount in the Garden Café and Gift Shop
• 10% discount on tickets for special events
• 20% discount for guests you bring to the gardens
• 10% discount on Summer Camps for children covered by family membership
• Monthly newsletters and updates by email

Cost: A 12 month membership for 2 adults and 2 kids costs €110, while a membership for 1 adult and 2 kids costs €70.

Compared to a normal family ticket? A ticket for a family of 5 (2 Adults, 3 Children) costs €26 from October to March and €33 from April to September.

Where to buy: To get your annual membership go online to their website www.brigitsgarden.ie

Seasonal Membership at Clara Lara Funpark covers admission and activities (height restrictions apply). An adult must be the main holder of the ticket.

Cost: Membership costs €75 per person (adult or child), so for 2 adults and 2 children €300

Compared to a normal family ticket? A day pass for an adult costs €25 while for a child it costs €30, so 2 adults and 2 children would cost €110.

Where to buy: you can buy online on their website www.claralara.ie.

Seasonal Membership at Westport House gives you:

• Unlimited use of the amusements and rides in the Pirate Adventure Park during normal opening hours.
• 25% off additional tickets for friends and family to Westport House & Pirate Adventure Park
• 10% off birthday parties in the Pirates Den indoor soft play
• Discounts on Special Events like Halloween or Winter Wonderland

Additional charges apply for adventure activities, special events such as the Halloween Fest and Winter Wonderland, carnival games, some additional attractions and rides. Membership cannot be used in conjunction with any other offers or for special events in Westport House. e.g. Santa, Events, Halloween, School Tours etc.

Cost: They have various family memberships, for a family of 4 membership is currently €240

Compared to a normal family ticket? 1 Day Pirate Pass for 2 Adults & up to 2 Children costs €70.

Where to buy: you can buy online on their website www.westporthouse.ie or at Westport House itself.

The Heritage Card provides for free admission to 45 state-managed OPW Heritage Sites located throughout the country (with the exception of Muckross Traditional Farms, Killarney) for one year from the date of first use.

NB: at certain locations, parking facilities and ancillary services are provided by other bodies or agencies, in which case there may be a charge for the use of such services, those are not covered by the Heritage Card.

Cost: A family card is €90 (Max. 2 adults & 5 eligible children aged from 12 to 18 years). Kids under 12 go free.

Compared to a normal family ticket? Prices for family tickets vary depending on site but cost on average €20-25 euros for 2 adults and 2 children (12-17yrs).

Where to buy: You can purchase an OPW Heritage Card at one of their OPW sites, some have credit card facilities. Alternatively, buy online at www.heritageireland.ie

Wells House offers an annual pass that is valid for one year, 7 days a week, offers one car entry, entry to the grounds including the Lady Frances Fairy & Gruffalo Walk, gardens, adventure playground, onsite cafe, animal farm, and non-ticketed events for the year.

Cost: Annual Family Membership for 2 adults and up to 3 children costs €99.00 + €1.50 booking fee

Compared to a normal family ticket? Family ticket for 2 Adults, up to 3 Children costs €24.00

Where to buy: buy your annual pass on their website www.wellshouse.ie or at reception

Emerald Park (formally Tayto Park) annual membership offers:

• Unlimited access to all regular attractions
• Discounts on food and beverages
• Discounted rates on special events

Cost: Annual Membership is based on a per person rate so for 4 people eg. 2 adults and 2 children costs €420.00

Compared to a normal family ticket? Family ticket with all access for 4 people costs €140 online in advance or €188 at the gate

Where to buy: buy your annual pass on their website www.emeraldpark.ie

Turoe Pet Farm offers a variety of membership options available to suit all family sizes. Members will get access to:

• The Pet Farm
• Jungle Town
• Inflatable City
• Outdoor play area
• Astro turf pitch
• Fairy nature walk

Cost: Annual Family Membership for 2 adults and up to 2 children costs €200

Compared to a normal family ticket? Family ticket for 2 Adults, up to 2 Children costs €45.00

Where to buy: buy your annual pass on their website www.turoepetfarm.ie

Airfield Annual Pass Holders enjoy:

• Unlimited visits
• Free entry to Airfield’s seasonal trails
• Discounts on selected classes & workshops
• 10% off food in Overends Kitchen

Cost: e.g. 4 Person Pass is €170

Compared to a normal family ticket? Day ticket for 2 adults + 2 children costs €34.

Where to buy: An Annual Pass can be purchased over the phone or at the Airfield Estate ticket desk.

A 12 month family membership offers plenty, including:

• Day visit admission to Bunratty Castle and Folk Park
• 10% Discount on admission to other Shannon Heritage Attractions
• 10% Discount in the Bunratty Retail Store
• 10% Discount in all food outlets including Mr O’Regan’s Café
• Free Parking
• Priority booking options for all events – additional fees apply for Easter Halloween and Christmas.
• 10% discount on Shannon Heritage Evening Entertainment Shows

Cost: €150 for 1 adult and up to 4 children or 2 adults + 2 children (children u16)

Compared to a normal family ticket? A family pass for 2 adults and 2 children costs €36

Where to buy? Buy it online on the website www.bunrattycastle.ie

A 12 month Killruddery House Membership gives you:

• Unlimited admission to the Gardens (during open season) including picnic & play areas, designated farm roads, team room
• Discounted rate for house tours
• Free admission or subsidised tickets to many events.
• Special discounts to partner activities at Killruddery including workshops, outdoor sports events, tree adventure park and Squirrel’s Scramble.

Cost: There are three tiers of membership.

• Gold Finch Killruddery Membership €100 – Five guests allowed along with the member
• Silver Fir Killruddery Membership €80 – Three guests allowed along with the member
• Copper Beech Killruddery Membership €60 – One guest allowed along with the member
  This is the total number of either adults or children who can visit Killruddery without further entrance fee, the member must be one of the guests present.

Compared to a normal family ticket? A Garden + House Tour entry ticket for 2 Adults + 2 Children costs €43.

Where to buy: You can purchase a membership on their website www.killruddery.com or at the Garden Entrance.

A Dublin Zoo Annual Family Pass offers lots of value, including:

• Free admission to the Zoo for 12 months (plus at least one adult / two children)
• You will also get free admission to Fota Wildlife Park in Cork for 12 months
• Free admission to four UK zoos during the 12 months – Edinburgh Zoo, Colchester Zoo, Twycross Zoo and Paignton Zoo
• A free subscription to quarterly magazine Zoo Matters
• Discounts on selected events, summer camps and educational programmes

Cost: €210 for Pass holder + 2 Adults + 2 Children or Pass holder + 1 Adult + 4 Children or Pass holder + 6 Children

Compared to a normal family ticket? A day ticket for 2 Adults + 2 Children costs €54 to €61.

Where to buy: Buy online on www.dublinzoo.ie or at the ticket office at the Zoo.

Members of Fota Wildlife Park get unlimited visits to the Park, as well as:

• Fota Wildlife Park Newsletters
• 10% off all Children’s Activity Camps
• Free admission to Dublin Zoo
• One visit per year to Edinburgh Zoo, Highlands Wildlife Park & Belfast Zoo (card & receipt must be produced)
• Admission concession to Paignton Zoo, Newquay Zoo, and Living Coasts (card & receipt must be produced)

Cost: €210 per year for their Conservation Pass which allows entry for Member + 2 adults + 2 kids (3-16yrs, under 3s are free) OR Member + 1 adult + 4 kids OR Member + 6 kids. They also have a Park Pass valid for Member + 2 children for €150.

Compared to a normal family ticket? A family ticket for 2 adults + 2 children costs €54.60 online or €58.00 at the gate.

Where to buy: On their website www.fotawildlife.ie or at the ticket office.

Powerscourt Estate members enjoy unlimited entry to Powerscourt Gardens, Waterfall and River Walk with playground during normal opening hours, as well as 10% discount in Powerscourt Garden Pavilion when you present your annual membership card.

Cost: Family membership pass for the year at Powerscourt costs €175 for 2 adults and up to 4 children

Compared to a normal family ticket? A family ticket for 2 adults + 3 kids to visit both the Gardens and Waterfall would cost €38.

Where to buy: You can buy it online on their website at www.powerscourt.com.

You can buy a season family pass* for Nore Valley Pet Farm allowing unlimited entry to the farm all season long (March – October). This is excellent value for money as a season pass only costs the equivalent of three normal entries to the farm.

*Season passes are for farm entry only, extra activities on site like tractor and trailer rides, go-karts, 3D maze, and crazy golf are not included. For seasonal events, check with the Farm if any extra fees apply.

Sample cost: 2 adults + 2 kids costs €111.00

Compared to a normal family ticket? A family ticket for 2 adults + 2 kids to visit for the day will cost €37.00

Where to buy: on their website www.norevalleypark.com

Odeon, Omniplex and IMC cinemas all offer membership which is usually taken on a monthly basis. Other local cinemas have their own membership deals.

• Odeon offer myLimitless monthly memebership (minimum 3 months) for €14.99 per month and entitles the member to one ticket to every movie, discounts off food & drink, exclusive invites to screenings before films go on general release. 18+ only
• Omniplex offer a  myOmnipass monthly membership (minimum 3 months) for €14.99 per month and entitles the member to one ticket to every movie including MAXX, Recline & D’LUXX options, exclusive members only screenings and more.
• IMC offers IMC Infinity for €17.99 monthly and entitles the holder to one ticket to every movie, exclusive members only screenings and one ticket daily.

Compared to a normal ticket? An adult ticket for 1 movie costs a similar price to the monthly membership fee so if you see 2 movies or more a month, you are saving money.

Where to buy: online for each cinema

Trains by James Gulliver Hancock suitable for ages 0 to 2 years

Full steam ahead! From underground trains, luxury safari trains and speedy Japanese Shinkansen trains, explore EVERY different type of train available in this colourful book for very young children (aged 0-2), as well as railway stations, the history of trains and much more. With eye-catching illustrations and easy-to-read text, this is an engaging introduction for little train-lovers.

Superworm by Julia Donaldson suitable for ages 0 to 4 years

“Superworm is super-long. Superworm is super-strong. Watch him wiggle! See him squirm! Hip, hip, hooray for SUPERWORM!” Super-long and super-strong, Superworm is always on hand to help animals and insects in need. From rescuing Baby Toad from a busy road or fishing Beetle out of a well – do not fear, Superworm is here!

Sleepy Eyes Bedtime Soothing Owl Soft Toy from Baby GUND suitable for ages 0 to 2+ years

The Sleepy Eyes Bedtime Owl is perfect for bedtime and play. Press the head & watch the eyes slowly close and hear soothing sounds as his belly gently glows.

Tonies fun audio system for kids suitable for ages 0 to 2+ years

Toniebox – the new audio system for children. Turn it on, pop a Tonie on and simply let the audio adventure begin. It’s all in one box with room for 90 minutes, so you can upload your MP3s, audiobooks or even narrate your own stories.

LEGO DUPLO Town Barn, Tractor & Farm Animal Care Playset suitable for ages 18 months+

This play-and-learn farm is an ideal developmental toy for toddlers who love animals or tractors. There are farm buildings and a tractor to build, plus farm accessories and a pig, sheep, horse, dog, hen, rooster and 2 cows to care for. As toddlers role-play the different farm activities, they build fine motor skills and develop social and emotional awareness.

The Baddies by Julia Donaldson suitable for 3+ years

The brand-new picture book from superstar author and illustrator Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler is a riot of slapstick fun and silliness. The Baddies are the meanest, nastiest ghost, witch and troll in the land. They just adore being bad, and fight over who is the worst. When a little girl moves into a nearby cottage, the Baddies can’t wait to scare her out of her wits. But the little girl quickly shows them that you don’t have to be big to be brave, and baddies don’t always win. Perfect read-aloud rhyming text and stunning pictures on every page with lots of details to spot Julia and Axel are the team that have created picture book favourites such as The Gruffalo, Stick Man, Zog and Highway Rat

Sir Adam The Brave & The Moody Monsters by David King suitable for ages 0 to 4 years

A brand new picture book adventure from the author-illustrator dream team behind the No.1 bestseller, A Hug For You, starring schoolboy Adam King in the guise of a medieval knight

When a trio of moody monsters jeopardise the Wompie Wonder Fair and throw the kingdom into chaos, something has to be done. And fast! Enter Sir Adam the Brave! Join him on his quest to save the day and find out what’s making those monsters so very moody!

David Walliams Memory Game suitable for ages 5+

A brilliantly entertaining Memory Game inspired by the stories from The World of David Walliams. Classic game of pairs featuring characters from books including Gangsta Granny, Billionaire Boy, and Grandpa’s Great Escape encourages concentration, turn taking and helps to develop memory skills.

Washimals Ocean Pets Playset suitable for ages 3+ years

Colour, clean and colour again with Crayola Washimals! Use the included Washimals markers to colour and create beautiful patterns and designs on your pets, before cleaning them off to play again! This fantastic Ocean Seashell Playset allows kids to play with new ocean themed pets at home or on the go! Features brand new pastel coloured pets in a fun beach theme that doubles as a storage solution. Contents include 2 pastel pets, 3 markers, 1 brush, 1 beach playset.

Squishmallow suitable for ages 3+ years

With a supersoft marshmallow-like texture each Squishmallow has its own fun personality shown on the hangtag. Each Squishmallow has its own unique style and design and there are loads to choose from with everything from an armadillo to a shrimp!

Cat Kid Comic Club – Collaborations by Dav Pilkey suitable for ages 6+ years

The Cat Kid Comic Club learns to collaborate in this creative, funny, and insightful graphic novel by Dav Pilkey. Excitement and imagination run wild as Naomi, Melvin, Poppy, Gilbert, Curly, and their siblings get back to making comics with originality and laughter. But wait – have they cleaned their rooms yet?! After their chores, the rambunctious group presents even more amazing mini-comics: a thrilling ride in “Chubbs McSpiderbutt”, an action-packed romp in “Frogzilla”, reflective haikus in “In the Autumn Pond”, a candy-coated mystery in “Mallo Cop”, and much, much, more.

By working together, the baby frogs discover that small things can have a huge impact. Readers of all ages will be inspired to dream up their own stories and unleash their own creativity as they dive into this pioneering graphic novel adventure from Dav Pilkey Heartfelt and humorous with an amazing cast of characters, this is the perfect present for Dog Man fans. Full colour pages throughout make it a fun and bright read!

The Friendship Fairies Go To Sea by Lucy Kennedy suitable for 6+ years

Meet the Friendship Fairies – sisters Emme, Holly and Jess. They’re just like regular girls, always messing and having fun, but they’re also fairies. Their mum works as a spy and she has a new case to crack – and this time she’s taking the Friendship Fairies along with her, to a little island off Connemara! All the girls know is that they’re going out to sea and that they need to take their swimsuits . Can Emme, Holly and Jess help their mum solve the mystery? This is the fourth book in the bestselling Friendship Fairies series by much-loved TV presenter Lucy Kennedy – magic, friendship and fun for readers aged 6+, with illustrations throughout by Phillip Cullen.

Pokémon The Collection suitable for ages 5 to 8 years

Join Pikachu for the ultimate Pokémon adventure in this creative collection! With 3 awesome activity books, a poster, a bookmark and stickers, this a perfect gift for fans of all ages. Jam-packed with Pokémon fun, this gift box contains a colouring book, search and find and a how-to-draw book.

Ravensburger Children’s World Globe, 180 piece 3D Jigsaw Puzzle suitable for ages 6 to 99 years!

This world globe is a great way to introduce your child to world geography. The design also shows different animals in the continents where they live. This puzzle uses unique plastic pieces, which slot together to build a sturdy and strong model. No glue required! Either assemble by eye or using the numbers on the reverse side.

Catan Junior suitable for ages 6+ years

Catan Junior takes place on a ring of tropical isles – including the mysterious Spooky Island, home of the Ghost Captain. Each island generates a specific resource: wood, goats, molasses, or cutlasses. You can also find gold. You start with two pirate lairs, and then build ships in order to expand your network. The more lairs you build, the more resources you may receive. Use your resources to build ships, lairs, or to get help from wise Coco the parrot.

This family game offers a world of adventure waiting to be discovered.

Spaceboy by David Walliams suitable for ages 9+ years

Ruth loves climbing trees, making a mess and throwing stones. But the thing she loves most is SPACE.

The girl is OBSESSED. She spends her days reading comics about alien invasions, doodling UFOs, watching B-movies about Earth being invaded by creatures from Mars… and gazing at the stars through her old, battered telescope.

Until one night, Ruth creeps out of bed in the attic room of her rickety old farmhouse to watch the stars – and is just dozing off when she spots something blazing across the sky. Something that looks like a flying saucer! Is she dreaming? No! And the flying saucer is on fire…

But when the UFO crash-lands in the cornfield, and Ruth rushes to help, she finds a mystery – and an adventure – beyond her wildest dreams…

Diary Of A Wimpy Kid: Diper Overlode by Jeff Kinney suitable for 9+  years

In Diper Överlöde, book 17 of the Diary of a Wimpy Kid series from #1 international bestselling author Jeff Kinney, Greg Heffley is finding out that the road to fame and glory comes with some hard knocks.

When he decides to tag along with his brother Rodrick’s band, Löded Diper, Greg doesn’t realize what he’s getting into. But he soon learns that late nights, unpaid gigs, fighting between band members, and money troubles are all part of the rock ‘n’ roll lifestyle.

Can Greg help Löded Diper become the legends they think they are? Or will too much time with Rodrick’s band be a diper överlöde?

Keeper of The Lost Cities Series by Shannon Messenger Suitable for ages 9+years

The Keeper of the Lost Cities series is perfect for fans of Harry Potter, Rick Riordan and Amari and the Night Brothers. It tells the story of Sophie Foster and her unique telepathic abilities, something she has never spoken of, even to her family until the day she meets Fitz, a mysterious boy who also reads minds.

In the first book, Keeper of the Lost Cities, Sophie is forced to leave behind everything and start a new life in a magical world! There are currently 9 books in the series, although the 9th book, Keeper of The Lost Cities Unlocked, is known as book 8.5!

Where’s Wally Find It Fast Game suitable for ages 5+

How quickly can you spot Wally? The Where’s Wally Find It Fast game is a brilliant, fun, quick paced matching game! Pick a card that contains a multiple images of Where’s Wally and other general objects then roll the picture dice – find an image on the dice that matches one on the card to win the round. The player who finds the most matches wins. For 2-4 players it makes a perfect stocking filler that all the family can enjoy.

Robotime 3D Puzzles suitable for ages 9+

Robotime 3D puzzles are the perfect gift for any budding building and engineering enthusiasts. Offering everything from Sam’s Study to Orpheus the working Robot, you can build sturdy 3D models with moving parts that offers hours of enjoyment.

LEGO-Creator: Caravan Family Holiday Playset suitable for ages 9+ years

Creative camping adventures and fun are awaiting outdoor fans in the LEGO Creator 3in1 Caravan Family Holiday Playset. At least 3 different build-and-play experiences are possible. Kids can build a caravan with a retro car model, then rebuild it into a camper van or a detailed lighthouse. Or they can free their creativity, tap into different passions and build something totally new. Packed with accessories and features, the set also includes 3 minifigures to jump-start play.

Failosophy for Teens by Elizabeth Day suitable for ages 13+

A game-changing guide to being happier, healthier and succeeding better, from Sunday Time bestselling author Elizabeth Day! This is a handbook for when things to wrong!

The book is full of creative and inspiring advice on how to talk openly about failure and turn failure into success, build resilience for when life sends you curveballs and reframe negative thoughts about yourself and much more.

The First To Die At The End by Adam Silvera suitable for ages 15+

It’s the night before Death-Cast goes live, and there’s one question on everyone’s mind: Can Death-Cast actually predict death, or is it an elaborate hoax? Orion Pagan has waited years for someone to tell him that he’s going to die, given his serious heart condition. Valentino Prince has a long and promising future ahead of him and only registered for Death-Cast after his twin sister nearly died in a car accident. Orion and Valentino cross paths in Times Square and immediately feel a deep connection. But when the first End Day calls go out, their lives are changed for ever – one of them receives a call . . . the other doesn’t.

Told with acclaimed author Adam Silvera’s signature bittersweet touch, this story celebrates the lasting impact that people have on each other and proves that life is always worth living to the fullest.

LEGO Star Wars Luke Skywalker (Red Five) Helmet suitable for ages 16+ years

Feel the power of your creative Force as you build the Star Wars collectible Luke Skywalker (Red Five) Helmet. The buildable model of Luke’s iconic pilot headgear is the first-ever hero helmet or open helmet in the LEGO Star Wars Helmet Collection. Channel your inner Jedi to recreate authentic details, including a brick-built microphone and interior padding, plus translucent red visor elements.

Ravensburger Eiffel Tower 3D Puzzle with lights suitable for ages 12+ years

Recreate the iconic Eiffel Tower with this 216 piece 3D jigsaw which includes real working LED colour changing lights! A perfect addition to any teenagers room as it glows from red to white to blue.

Quirky Water Bottles and Travel Mugs 

From the Eoin O’Connor ‘Mutz’ collection to the Orla Kiely Metal water bottle collection and the Bioloco collection of travel mugs and water bottles, you are sure to find a suitable stocking filler for the savvy eco conscious teens in your life.

Our instinct as parents is to provide and protect. This has become even more apparent as we navigate our way through the current COVID crisis. But our kids, especially our teens, are more resilient than we sometimes give them credit for.

Opening up and talking about the family finances (within reason) gives them an opportunity to ask questions, gain understanding and ultimately be better prepared for their future.

For most, they will face tough financial decisions and being equipped with the skills to navigate their way through those decisions is perhaps one of the best gifts you can give them.

Children pick up on and mimic the behaviour of their parents and their peers. From a young age they are forming their financial understanding, through the games you play together and from listening to and watching your attitude and behaviour to spending and saving.

Everyday events from shopping to paying bills, saving for bigger ticket items and bringing them along when you lodge money to your account are learning opportunities and can help start the discussion around money and goal setting.

As they get older, enlist their help to research things like insurance, household bills, holidays, etc. Could they help save the family money or find a better way to get away for a family break? Can you reward them by sharing a portion of the savings in return for their help? By doing this you are equipping them to want to research in the future when it is their money and they are looking for ways to save and spend wisely.

Most teens have a basic understanding of where money comes from. Talk to them about ways they can earn money. You may choose to pay your teen for chores or they may help neighbours with babysitting, car washing, grass cutting, etc. As they grow, encouraging them to apply for a summer job, where they may have to pay tax and learn to use a tax estimator, are all great ways to show them the time and effort required to get money.

It is also good to have the conversation around future plans. Jobs they think they may like and what they may need to do to get there. So chatting about interest areas, looking at college courses and drilling into what they offer, and even looking at recruitment websites to get an idea of what salary they can expect are all ways to help them plan their financial future better.

Once your teen reaches 18, the offers for credit cards, store cards and other tempting offers will come flooding in. Talk to them about their credit score and how easy it is to get into debt. Explain how a credit card works and what happens if you don’t clear the debt each month.

Investing in stocks and shares can be an exciting way to teach your teen about risk and reward.

“The stock market is just one big shop. Instead of buying a chocolate bar in that shop, you can buy a piece of the company that makes chocolate bars. If the company that makes the chocolate makes a profit, it’s worth more, and the price you bought it for may go up. Maybe that company will decide to give the profits directly to the people who own the shares and that’s called a dividend. If the company makes a loss, which can happen, the share price can go down, that’s called a risk,” explains Susan Hayes Culleton, CFA, “The Positive Economist” and author of Money Matters.

There are also other investment opportunities open to them, including crypto currency, starting their own business, and investing in other financial products or services.

Talking through the options with your teen and doing the research helps them make an informed choice, but they do need to understand the risks to their investment and only risk what they can afford to lose.

Money Matters is a financial literacy textbook with the support of CFA Ireland. It is written as menu of personal finance, investing and entrepreneurship life skills.

The book is tailored for young people in the following ways:

• It is story-focused whereby students can learn about pensions through characters like Sarah who starts her first job and is wondering what “tax relief” means for her.
• It is full of relevant modernity including ESG, fintech, online brokers, differentiating between trading and investing as well as using technology for active learning.
• It gives a real taste of the diversity of careers available today and tomorrow in finance. Each chapter contains a case study of a CFA Institute charterholder and highlights how the the theory learned in subjects like accounting, business, maths and economics connect with the practicality of everyday life and life-changing decisions.

Find out more and buy your copy here  so you can start talking to your teen about money and finances.

Date: December 17th 2023 from 1pm to 3pm

Price: FREE

Santa, Mrs Claus along with their team of elves and Frosty the Snowman will be making a stop at Lough Key Forest and Activity Park this December 17th. You can:

• Have a meet and greet with Santa
• Enjoy mulled wine and festive treats
• Take some beautiful festive photos.

Booking Details: No booking required for this event. To find out more, check out the Lough Key Forest and Activity Park Facebook page.

Dates: Weekends in December

Prices: Free

Bring the little ones to visit Santa at IKEA in Dublin, and they can enjoy some festive activities while they visit.

Santa’s grotto is located in the main entrance and he will be there on selected dates in the run up to Christmas. We hear that this Santa is excellent with any children who may have additional needs.

For more information and to book tickets, click here.

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Reminder, our criteria to be included here as a value place to visit Santa in Ireland was €60 or less for a family of four.

Dates: 17th November to 23rd December

Prices: €13.50 per child including gift, €6 per adult

The award winning and original Santa’s Magical Cabin returns for this 2023 Winter season! Upon check-in an elf guide will meet each family and take them directly to meet Santa Claus in his magical cabin.

Children will be amazed by what Santa knows about them, thanks to the Santa Needs to Know forms, filled in at the time of booking. Santa will also give each child a beautiful age appropriate gift. Everyone will be entertained throughout by energetic elves who will tell everyone exactly how Santa, his reindeer and all the elves prepare for Christmas. Book your visit now! 

Venues:

• Dunnes Stores, Patrick Street, Cork City
• Dunnes Stores, Ilac Centre, Dublin 1
• Dunnes Stores, Ennis, Co Clare
• Dunnes Stores, Kilnamanagh Shopping Centre, Tallaght, Dublin 24
• Jetland Shopping Centre, Limerick City
• The Kyle Centre, Portlaoise, Co Laois

Dates: November 16th to December 22nd

Prices: €17 per child, €11 per adult

A team from the North Pole are setting up a training camp in Croke Park and they’d love you to visit as they prepare for their special journey around the world on Christmas Eve.

On the Santa Experience, you’ll see the Elf Dressing Rooms, the Igloo Clubhouse and the North Pole Skills Zone.

Then it will be time to step inside Santa’s very special Croke Park cabin to meet the man himself. You can take a photo with Santa and tell him about your predictions for the 2023 GAA All-Ireland Championships!

Every child will receive a small GAA-themed gift and photos will also be available to purchase if you wish.

For more information and to book tickets, click here.

Dates: November 27th to December 24th 2023

Prices: €24 per child, adults go free (max 2 adults per child)

Head to the Winter Wonderland, set in a beautifully crafted timber village with thousands of sparkling lights. On arrival, check-in at the ticket office where every child will receive a personal passport that Santa will stamp for you.

With your ticket, step through the Secret Wardrobe into the Magic Garden, and on to the Candy Cane Trail for some riddles and games with the elves. Now it’s only a few short steps through the gingerbread garden and it’s into the Elves’ Workshop where you’ll see some of the amazing wooden toys that the Elves have made. Then head to visit Mrs Claus who has a wonderful collection of story books and is always busy making mince pies for Santa and dinner for the Elves. She will give every child a special note for the Fairies and maybe some secret ‘Reindeer Food’ for Christmas Eve.

Finally, an Elf will call you in to visit Santa for a chat and a wrapped present!

This year funds raised will go Ireland’s National Autism Charity, As I am.

For more information and to book tickets, click here.

Dates: Various through December

Prices: TBC for 2023

Santa visits Arnotts every year and we are just waiting on him to confirm the dates for 2023! Each year, all proceeds raised from Santa visits are given to partner charities.

Your visit to Santa includes a souvenir badge for each child. A professional photograph of your visit can be purchased at an additional cost.

For more information and to book tickets, click here.

Dates: Fridays to Sundays from November 17th to December 17th

Prices: €20 per child

A trip to the market is a festive experience like no other. Immerse yourselves in this winter wonderland; marvel at the glittering lights, soak up the festive music, and lose yourselves in a world of colour and merriment. Top off your trip with the little ones by paying a visit to the man in red himself!

For more information and to book tickets, click here.

Dates: November 14th to December 24th 2023

Prices: From €16 for one child; €28 for 2 children and €38 for 3 children and €48 for 4 children. Parents go Free.

This year the Magic Elves are waiting for you, so they can create the most wondrous Christmas Experience for you and your family. After your family create their very own snow storm, it’s off to see Santa in his incredible North Pole Magic Grotto, receive your presents.

For more information and to book tickets, click here.

Dates: Select dates from December 8th to 17th

Prices: €16 per child (+ €2.13 Eventbrite booking fee)babies under 12 months with a sibling and adults go free

Olive’s Room elves will be on hand to help the children decorate gingerbread biscuits, create a festive decoration and draw a picture or post their letter to Santa. Each child will receive their craft, a gingerbread, hot chocolate. There will be face-painting with the fabulous Rosie from Roar.

Michelle La Grue photographer will also be there to capture the moment if you wish, and printed photos are available for anun extra cost. Michelle volunteers her time.

All profits from the event and photos go to Laura Lynn.

For more information and to book tickets, click here.

Dates: December 10th from 10am to 6pm

Prices: €10 per child, adults go free proceeds go to the RNLI

Visit Santa in his unique and magical grotto at Wicklow Lifeboat Station where elves will be on hand to face paint and provide a treat of cookies and milk for all the children. Santa also has a little treat for all the boys and girls and Rookie the Reindeer and Santa will be happy to have photos taken with everyone.

All proceeds raised go to the RNLI

For more information and to book tickets, click here.

Dates: November 25th and 26th 2023

Prices: A visit to the Christmas Market is free. Santa visits are €50 for a family ticket (2 adults and 2 children), €18 per child, €10 per adult

Get ready for the fantastic Christmas-filled experience that is Winter Wonderland at Barretstown. Browse through the Christmas market stalls, soak up the Christmas music, enjoy some delicious food in Elizabeth’s Tree House, and take part in the Christmas raffle. And of course, you’ll be able to top it all off with a visit to the man himself in the wonderful grotto…Santa!

There will also be magic tricks, face painting, Christmas stories and the chance to meet the Christmas elves.

For more information and to book tickets, click here.

Dates: Thursdays, Fridays and Sundays from December 1st 2023

Prices: €10 per child, adults go free

This year at SOLAS, ring in the festive season with a host of events and the Santa Experience. Included in your ticket is the chance to walk through the wonky winter wonderland, full of surprises and meet Santa’s helpers and Sean the Sheep! Then ring the bell to see if Santa will appear to give you a special gift.

For more information and to book tickets, click here.

Dates: Weekends from November 25th to December 17th

Prices: €15 per child and adults go free.

Santa will return to The Pavilion again this year to greet all the girls and boys in advance of his round the world trip on Christmas morning!

Your Santa visit costs €15 per child and includes a children’s gift. You can add a family photograph for an extra cost if you wish.

For further information and to book tickets, click here.