The Mulberry Bush Blog

10 Creative Ways Play Food Fuels Imagination & Learning

18th June 2025 Mulberry Bush

Play food might look simple on the surface—tiny wooden carrots, soft felt sandwiches, plastic ice cream—but in a child’s hands, it becomes so much more. It is a tool for storytelling, a way to explore the world, and a stepping stone to learning essential life skills. Whether it’s a tea party with teddy bears or a bustling pretend café, play food is more than just a fun pastime—it’s a brilliant learning opportunity wrapped up in colourful packaging. Here are 10…

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The Joy of Ride-On Toys for Sunny Day Adventures

11th June 2025 Mulberry Bush

There’s something truly magical about a summer’s day spent whizzing around on wheels. Whether it’s a wobbly first ride on a trike or a driveway race between siblings on Didicars, ride-on toys bring a special kind of joy that’s hard to beat. They’re more than just a way to get from A to B—they’re a passport to independence, adventure, and hours of active fun. Let’s take a closer look at why ride-on toys are a brilliant choice for summer play…

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Big Adventures in Small Worlds: Toys That Spark Imaginative Play

4th June 2025 Mulberry Bush

Have you ever watched a child create a whole universe from a handful of toys and a patch of carpet? That’s small world play in action—and it’s truly magical. Small-world play invites children to build miniature versions of the big world around them, giving them the freedom to explore, imagine, and understand life’s little (and big) adventures. Whether it’s running a farm, sailing the seas, or taking care of patients in a toy hospital, children use small-world play to process…

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brothers playing with classic wooden train set

What Makes a Toy ‘Timeless’? A Guide to Long-Lasting Play Value

28th May 2025 Mulberry Bush

What Makes a Toy Timeless? There are toys we remember long after childhood—wooden trains click-clacking around tracks, dolls’ houses full of tiny furniture, a trusty pull-along that went everywhere with us. These are the timeless toys: well-loved, well-played, and passed down from one child to the next. But what exactly gives a toy its staying power? Why do some stand the test of time while others are quickly forgotten? In this post, we’ll explore what makes a toy timeless—from quality…

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best games for family bbqs and bank holidays

The Best Family Games for Bank Holidays & BBQs

21st May 2025 Mulberry Bush

When the sun comes out and the scent of sizzling sausages fills the air, there’s nothing quite like a good old-fashioned British Bank Holiday BBQ. Whether it’s a garden party with the neighbours, a picnic in the park, or a laid-back afternoon with family, these long weekends are made for making memories. But if you’re hosting (or attending) with little ones in tow, you’ll know the importance of keeping children happily entertained while the grown-ups chat and the grill gets…

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The Magic of Make-Believe: Why Imaginative Play Matters

14th May 2025 Mulberry Bush

Imaginative play – or make-believe – is one of the most joyful and important parts of childhood. Whether your child is hosting a fairy tea party in the garden, battling dinosaurs in a make-believe jungle, or putting on a magic show in the living room, pretend play offers so much more than just entertainment. It’s how children make sense of the world around them, build social and emotional skills, and explore their wildest dreams. In this post, we’ll explore why…

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Best Sports Toys & Games for Active Play This Season

7th May 2025 Mulberry Bush

As the days get longer and brighter, it’s the perfect time to head outdoors, stretch little legs, and burn off some energy. Whether it’s garden games after school, half-term activities, or just encouraging a bit more movement and a little less screen time, active play is a brilliant way to support children’s health, development, and happiness. And let’s be honest—it’s also great fun! From skipping ropes to table tennis, here’s your friendly guide to sports toys and active games that…

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Classic Playground Games Every Child Should Know

30th April 2025 Mulberry Bush

Remember the thrill of running across the school field, heart pounding as someone shouted “British Bulldog”? Or the squeals of laughter in a game of Duck Duck Goose? For many of us, these playground classics were the highlight of childhood—screen-free, carefree and wonderfully simple. These traditional games aren’t just about nostalgia. They’re fantastic for developing social skills, encouraging physical activity and helping children learn to play together fairly. Best of all, they need very little equipment—just energy, imagination, and a…

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parents getting little green fingers into garden by potting plants

Easy Ways to Get Little Green Fingers Involved in Gardening

23rd April 2025 Mulberry Bush

Spring is here, and that means longer days, warmer weather, and the perfect excuse to get outside! If you’re looking for a fun and educational way to keep little hands busy, gardening is a fantastic option. Not only does it teach patience and responsibility, but it also sparks curiosity about nature and how things grow. Plus, nothing beats the joy on a child’s face when they see the first sprout pop up from the soil! Here are some easy and…

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children running and enjoying an easter egg hunt in the garden

Egg-citing Easter Games for the Whole Family

16th April 2025 Mulberry Bush

Easter Fun Beyond the Egg Hunt! Easter is a time of joy, laughter, and, of course, chocolate! While the classic Easter egg hunt is a much-loved tradition, why not add some extra excitement with a mix of active, creative, and slightly unexpected games? Whether you’re hosting a family get-together, a children’s party, or just looking for ways to keep little ones entertained over the Easter weekend, these egg-citing Easter games will bring everyone together for fun-filled moments. 1. Egg Rolling…

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