Celebrate National Son and Daughter Day with a Family Feast to Remember

Let’s bring this sweet tradition across the pond

National Son and Daughter Day has been a beloved American tradition since the 1930s. It's a day to pause, reflect, and show appreciation for the children in our lives. 

Whether they’re little ones still learning to tie their laces or grown-up kids building lives of their own, this day is all about celebrating the bond between parents and children.

While not widely known in the UK just yet, this warm-hearted day deserves a global audience. 

What better way to start spreading the love than with a family celebration packed with delicious, kid-friendly party food?

Here’s how to throw a fuss-free, flavour-filled National Son and Daughter Day party, where the menu is as joyful as the memories you’ll make.

Sweet and Savoury Finger Foods to Share

1. DIY Mini Pizzas

Let your kids unleash their inner chefs! Lay out mini pizza bases (or use pitta bread) with bowls of tomato sauce, grated cheese, and toppings like pepperoni, olives, sweetcorn, and peppers. Fun, interactive, and tasty.

2. Rainbow Fruit Skewers

Thread chunks of strawberries, melon, pineapple, kiwi, and grapes onto wooden skewers for a healthy and vibrant snack. Drizzle with a little honey or melted chocolate for a treat.

3. Cheesy Twists

Using ready-rolled puff pastry, twist strips sprinkled with grated cheese, bake until golden, and watch them vanish from the plate. Add a touch of paprika or pesto for a grown-up kick.

4. Sandwich Sushi

Flatten slices of bread, spread with cream cheese or hummus, layer with ham or cucumber, roll tightly, and slice into little ‘sushi’ rounds. Kids love the novelty, and they’re perfect for small hands.

Treats That Double as Activities

Decorate-Your-Own Cupcakes

Pre-bake plain cupcakes and set out icing, sprinkles, chocolate chips, and fruit bits. Whether the end result is Pinterest-worthy or hilariously messy, it’s all part of the fun.

Mocktail Mixing Station

Set up a colourful drinks corner with juices, fruit slices, fizzy water, and umbrellas. Let the kids mix and name their own mocktails, parents and older sons and daughters can get involved too (with or without gin, depending on the hour!).

Little Touches That Make a Big Difference

Create a 'Memory Wall' with printed photos of favourite family moments

Handwrite mini 'thank you' notes to each child with a reason why they’re cherished

Add themed decorations in your child’s favourite colours or hobbies—football bunting, unicorn balloons, or even a Lego centrepiece!

Why It Matters

In a busy world, it’s easy to forget to simply celebrate the people we love most. National Son and Daughter Day gives families a moment to do just that. Whether you're a parent, grandparent, foster carer or mentor, this is a chance to connect, laugh, and make beautiful memories over a plate of sausage rolls and fruit punch.

Let’s start a new tradition here in the UK.

No Kids Allowed: The Rise of Adults-Only Pubs in the UK

In recent years, a quiet revolution has been brewing in Britain’s pub culture: the rise of adults-only or child-free pubs. 

Far from being anti-family, these establishments are catering to a growing demographic of pubgoers who want to unwind in a quieter, more grown-up environment. 

Whether it’s to enjoy a pint in peace, have a romantic date night, or gather with friends for meaningful conversation, more people are choosing venues that don’t include the pitter-patter of tiny feet or the shrill cry of an overtired toddler.

What Are Adults-Only Pubs?

Adults-only pubs are venues that have chosen to exclude under-18s entirely, often with clear signage and policies to ensure the atmosphere remains geared toward adult clientele. Some go further, banning pushchairs, highchairs and even baby-changing facilities. The focus is firmly on comfort, ambience, and the kind of relaxation that appeals to grown-ups looking to decompress, not supervise.

This isn’t about being anti-child, it’s about curating a particular kind of experience.

Why the Change?

1. Creating a Peaceful Atmosphere

Many patrons report that they’re simply seeking a quieter, more relaxing space. In a world where noise and overstimulation are increasingly common, pubs that offer calm surroundings are becoming a haven for the stressed, the introverted, and the weary.

2. Catering to Millennials and Gen X

Younger generations—particularly Millennials in their 30s and 40s—are visiting pubs more as an experience than a quick pint. They want craft beer, ambient lighting, wine flights, board games, or themed events. Add children into that mix, and it can quickly become a very different evening.

3. The Rise of ‘Third Spaces’

As pubs increasingly compete with cafés, co-working spaces and boutique bars, some are redefining themselves as adult “third spaces”, somewhere between work and home. For many adults, especially those without children, a child-free zone feels more like an extension of their personal space.

4. Late-Night Culture

Pubs that host live music, comedy nights, or late openings are finding that banning children creates fewer operational headaches and allows for a smoother evening vibe. It also eliminates awkward conversations with parents about bedtimes or noise levels.

The Business Case

From a business perspective, the move makes sense for some venues. While families can bring in revenue—particularly during daytime hours—they also require space and amenities. Adult-focused pubs can reduce overheads by not needing to accommodate children’s menus, toys, or highchairs. And they can focus their marketing squarely on adult experiences: bottomless brunches, whisky tastings, pub quizzes, and live performances.

The Backlash

Not everyone is thrilled. Some parents argue that pubs are part of British culture and that excluding families risks making hospitality less inclusive. Others worry that it adds to the growing list of places where families feel unwelcome. The debate often becomes one of balance: should every space be family-friendly, or is there room for variety?

A Trend That’s Here to Stay?

From London micro-pubs to countryside gastropubs, the adults-only concept is gaining ground. As hospitality venues look to create unique identities, expect to see more operators define their offering not just by what they serve, but by who they serve.

For those who enjoy a quieter drink and adult conversation without the worry of tripping over a plastic fire truck, these pubs may just be the new local of choice.

Have you visited a child-free pub recently? Would you prefer this kind of setting, or do you feel pubs should remain family-friendly? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.

Introducing Freddie’s Farm: The Healthier, Nutritious Snacks Kids Will Love!

If you have ever had problems getting healthier, tastier snacks for children, then That's Food and Drink has good news for you.

Because parents we are inviting you to say hello to delicious healthier fruit and veg kids’ snacks that are not ultra-processed. 

Thanks to Freddie’s Farm’s patented method you can say goodbye to tantrums caused by sugar highs and crashes! 

If you’re searching for a genuinely healthier snacks for your little ones, or nieces, nephews or grandchildren, Freddie’s Farm’s delicious range of fruit and vegetable snacks are made with 100% whole fruits and vegetable ingredients, offering a fun and nutritious option at snack time. 

They say good things come in threes, and they certainly do at Freddie’s Farm. Using only genuine and fresh British grown fruit and veg (never concentrates or purees!) that are minimally processed using a unique patented method that dehydrates and cold presses the fruit and veg into fun, friendly shapes or bars, Freddie’s Farm creates kids’ snacks with a difference. 

Unlike many fruit-based snacks that rely on concentrates, purees and artificial ingredients, Freddie’s Farm keep it simple, making them the only kids’ fruit snack on shelves that is not ultra processed and 100% kerbside recyclable. Never from concentrate, never from puree, just 100% home grown fruit. 

Little ones can enjoy fun tractor shapes or bars in a variety of delicious flavours which are perfect for lunchboxes, on-the-go snacking, or as a tasty treat at home.  

Freddie’s Farm Fruit Shapes: Choose from ravishing Raspberry, ’apeeling’ Apple, or beautiful Blueberry varieties – each made with 100% British fruit and veg:  apple, vibrant berries, and a magnificent mix of veggies including beetroot, carrot, and spinach. 

Available at Sainsbry’s, Ocado or online direct from Freddie’s Farm and Amazon. From £2.65 for a box of 5 packs (20g). 

Freddie’s Farm Berry Bars: Available in three bursting berry flavours Strawberry, Raspberry, and Blueberry – each made with 100% British fruit with added beetroot, carrot and spinach.  

Available at Tesco, Sainsbury’s or online at Freddie’s Farm and Amazon. £2.50 for a box of 5 bars (20g). 

And it’s not only little tummies that Freddie’s Farm care about, but the planet too! These delicious snacks are wrapped up in paper packs, making all packaging 100% kerbside recyclable. 

With no additives, artificial ingredients, or unnecessary processing, Freddie’s Farm fruit snacks deliver all the taste without the compromise. 

Incidentally you'll be interested to learn that Freddie's Farm is a real Kentish farm owned by Freddie's dad, Charlie.

https://freddiesfarmsnacks.co.uk

Teaching Young Children to Safely Help in the Kitchen

The kitchen can be a wonderful place for children to learn essential life skills, foster creativity, and spend quality time with family. 

My specialty was making flapjacks, my brother's was shortbread and my wife, as her mother was a professional chef running her own business, she was a proper under chef!

Ensuring the safety of children in the kitchen is absolutely paramount. 

Here’s a guide to helping your young ones navigate the kitchen safely and enjoyably, along with a few simple recipes they can make under supervision.

Safety First

Establish Ground Rules:

Always wash hands before handling food.

Keep fingers away from sharp objects.

Stay away from hot surfaces and appliances.

Clean up spills immediately to avoid slips and falls.

Child-Friendly Tools:

Use plastic knives with serrated edges for cutting soft items.

Opt for lightweight, non-breakable bowls and utensils.

You can buy proper child-proportioned kitchen tools, should you wish.

Invest in a sturdy step stool to ensure they can reach the counter safely.

Supervised Zones:

Designate a specific area where your child can work, away from the stove and sharp objects.

Keep frequently used items within their reach to minimise the need for them to stretch or climb.

Education on Appliances:

Teach them the basics of kitchen appliances but emphasise that only adults should operate the stove, oven, and sharp utensils.

Introduce them to safer appliances, like hand mixers or blenders, and always supervise their use.

Simple Recipes for Little Chefs

1. Fruit Salad

Ingredients:

1 apple

1 banana

1 orange

100g grapes

1 tablespoon honey or lemon juice (optional)

Instructions:

Wash all the fruits thoroughly.

With adult supervision, peel and chop the apple, banana, and orange into bite-sized pieces.

Halve the grapes if they are large.

Mix all the fruit pieces in a large bowl.

Drizzle with honey or lemon juice if desired and mix gently.

Serve immediately.

2. No-Bake Cereal Bars

Ingredients:

200g rolled oats

100g honey

50g peanut butter

50g dried fruit (raisins, cranberries, etc.)

50g nuts or seeds (optional)

Instructions:

In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats and dried fruit.

In a microwave-safe bowl, warm the honey and peanut butter for about 30 seconds until they are easy to mix.

Pour the honey and peanut butter mixture over the oats and fruit.

Stir until all the dry ingredients are well-coated.

Press the mixture into a lined baking tin, flattening it with the back of a spoon.

Refrigerate for at least an hour until firm, then cut into bars.

3. Mini Pita Pizzas

Ingredients:

4 whole wheat pitta breads

200g tomato passata or pizza sauce

200g grated cheese (mozzarella, cheddar, or a mix)

Assorted toppings: sliced olives, cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, cooked chicken, etc.

Instructions:

Preheat the oven to 180°C (160°C fan/gas mark 4).

Lay out the pitta breads on a baking tray.

Spread a thin layer of tomato passata over each pitta.

Sprinkle grated cheese evenly on top.

Let your child arrange their choice of toppings on the pitta pizzas.

Bake in the preheated oven for about 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Allow to cool slightly before serving.

Tips for Encouraging Kitchen Involvement

Make it Fun: Use cookie cutters for fun-shaped sandwiches and fruits.

Praise Effort: Always commend their hard work and creativity, regardless of the outcome.

Be Patient: Allow extra time for tasks and expect a bit of mess. It's all part of the learning process.

Lead by Example: Demonstrate tasks and proper techniques, showing patience and safety.

By integrating children into kitchen activities, you not only teach them invaluable skills but also create lasting memories. With the right precautions and simple recipes, your young chefs will soon develop a love for cooking that will last a lifetime.

Aldi has healthy snack ideas for your summer holidays!

No summer holidays car journey is complete without some serious snacking opportunities and Aldi’s Organic Mamia range is perfect for those on-the-go bites. 

For a sweet flapjack style treat, shoppers can pick up the Oaty Bars for just £1.95 (6 pack) with a choice of Strawberry and Apple, Banana, and Carrot Cake flavours. And as there are absolutely no added salt or preservatives, these tasty bars will go down a real treat.

For a crisp style snack without added preservatives, parents can pick up the Tomato Wheels (20g, 55p) and Carrot Puffs (20g, 55p). These are more than ideal for a quick bite.

These organic snacks will make for happy tummies. Don’t forget to keep your children (and yourselves!) hydrated on long journeys without any added sugar with Aldi’s Sun Quench Fruity Blasts (8x200ml, £1.59).

Clean and Clear

Car rides can quickly get messy and when toilet stops are few and far between, parents can prepare with Aldi’s Mamia essentials. For young ones still potty training, no travel bag is complete without the award winning Mamia Ultra Fit Nappies (sizes 4-6+, from £2.99).  Or, for when sticky hands go wandering over windows, be sure to pick up the Mamia Baby Wipes (65p per pack).With 60 wipes per pack, these fragrance-free wipes are formulated for even the most sensitive of skin.

Aldi’s Travelling Checklist:

Travel Magnetic Scribbler, £6.99

Licensed Bumper Stationery Wallet, £4.49

Oaty Bars, £1.95

Tomato Wheels, 55p

Carrot Puffs, 55p

Sun Quench Fruity Blasts (8x200ml, £1.59)

Mamia Ultra Fit Nappies (sizes 4-6+, from £2.99)

Mamia Baby Wipes (65p per pack)

TOTAL: £19.76

 Aldi’s Licensed Products are available in store from 27th July, but shoppers will need to be quick as with all Specialbuys once they’re gone, they’re gone!

Frankie & Benny's launch their summer hols campaign today

Readers of That's Food and Drink who have school age (or Younger!) children in the families will be pleased to learn that today is the launch of Frankie & Benny’s summer holiday campaign, Fun In The Sun. 

To coincide with the start of the school holidays they're dishing out £250 cash prizes for parents to buy their children fun outdoor activities/leisure so they can enjoy the great outdoors rather than stare at a screen all day. Coupled with the weekly meal discounts all these initiatives are designed to help families over the summer holidays with the cost of living crisis.

Yes, top Italian American themed restaurant Frankie & Benny’s has launched weekly £250 cash prize giveaways for families looking to enjoy the great outdoors throughout this summer.

Just in time for the long school summer holidays Frankie & Benny’s are on a mission to help families facing the cost of living crisis buy their kids leisure equipment so they can have fun in the sun. 

EVERY week there’s a chance to win a £250 prize for the kids. All you need do is sign-up to the mailing list and enter every week! You don’t even need to buy a meal, it’s FREE and is reallythat simple!

This comes on the heels of Frankie & Benny’s announcements of  a special series of summer super saving meal deals helping families and friends enjoy meals out this summer on a budget.

Frankie & Benny’s, the ultimate family friendly restaurant, has already started giving away £250 prizes and will continue throughout the summer, every week until September 5.

Just sign up to the mailing list and you're in with a chance of winning £250 to spend on anything your child likes from a mountain bike to football goals, tennis equipment, a tent, anything to encourage children to get out and about this summer and tempt them away from screen time!

The first winner said: “OMG this is incredible! My son cried when I told him we’d won. We've managed to kit out our whole garden with outdoor activities.”

Frankie & Benny’s Marketing Director, Andreia Harwood, said: “We're really aware that the cost of living crisis is hard on all of us, which is why this summer we're helping out families with special offers and £250 weekly cash prizes designed to help parents pay for outdoor leisure activities. Frankie & Benny’s put our customers at the forefront of everything we do and making sure they can have an amazing summer is at the heart of our summer campaigns.”

Frankie & Benny’s is leading the way helping families dining out during the long summer holidays by introducing deals specially designed to help with the cost of living crisis.

The popular themed restaurant is offering two ‘always on’ summer promotion offers which are available now and until the end of August.

Frankie & Benny’s have also recently launched the new kid’s menu featuring some famous faces in partnership with Cartoon Network.  Whether your little one wants to join Batwheels and the gang protecting Gotham City, or Prince Ivandoe and his loyal squire Bert on a quest filled with adventure, Frankie & Benny’s new activity sheets have it all, adding extra fun to mealtimes. 

Frankie & Benny’s new kids menu has more flavour, more goodness and sure to keep fussy diners happy. Treat them to deliciously crispy Omega-3 rich fish fingers, hidden veg pizza or Frankie's classic pasta & meatballs!

The first Always On offer is a weekday deal available Monday to Friday after 7pm allowing guests to have two main courses of pizza, burgers and or pasta dishes for just £20. This will give a saving of up to £15.

Main courses available include the double bacon cheeseburger with fries, and the creamy chicken and ‘nduja fettucine- both solid favourites with Frankie & Benny fans.

The second deal is designed for family and friends dining out at the weekend. Throughout the summer Frankie & Benny’s is offering two for the price of one main meals all day Sunday, saving up to £21.90!

Dishes include the New York BBQ chicken loaded up with bacon, cheese, onion rings and fries, as well the classic Mac & Cheese (with, or without, bacon!)

Frankie & Benny’s £250 weekly prize giveaway terms and conditions: https://www.frankieandbennys.com/terms

Frankie & Benny’s Always On terms and conditions: https://www.frankieandbennys.com/terms

https://www.frankieandbennys.com

Kids Eat Free scheme returns to Tesco cafés for school summer holidays

Tesco has announced it will be re-launching its Kids Eat Free scheme to its 310 cafés across the UK over the school summer holidays.

The scheme will run in cafés between the following dates:

England & Wales: Start 24th July – Finish 1st Sept

Scotland: Start 3rd July – Finish 11th August

Northern Ireland: Start 3rd July – Finish 1st Sept

Tesco's cafes will be offering one free Kids Hot Meal Deal, Kids Breakfast or Kids Pick ‘n’ Mix deal with each item bought by an adult from as little as 60p when showing their Tesco Clubcard at the till.

Jason Tarry, Tesco UK CEO, said: “We know the extra costs of keeping children fed and entertained during the long summer holidays can stretch household budgets, so we’re bringing back Kids Eat Free to give our families a helping hand.”

Popular menu items include beans or avocado on toast, fish fingers, baked chicken goujons or a sandwich. Hot main meals include a vegetable side dish, and the sandwich pick n mix includes a piece of fresh fruit and two snacks, so there’s something healthy and satisfying to feed hungry children from breakfast 'til dinner.

Kids Eat Free is just one of the many ways that Tesco is helping families spend less. Tesco has recently announced price cuts on essential products including spaghetti, cooking oil and yoghurt.

Families can also save thanks to Aldi Price Match, which matches the price of hundreds of products to Aldi, including both Tesco own brand products and big brands, and thanks to Clubcard Prices, more than 20 million Clubcard households have access to thousands of exclusive deals on everything from everyday staples like fruit and veg to treats like prosecco or ice cream.