In the days of games consoles and endless animated TV designed to keep the kids occupied, it is tempting to let them sit in front of the Playstation or telly and leave them to it, especially as it keeps them quiet. However much we are tempted to do this though, and let's face it we all are, we should keep them mentally and physically stimulated in other ways.

Kids are naturally excitable; I often say to my children "Do you have go snowboarding ?" when they have a burst of energy. But letting them sit in front of the TV day-in, day-out will just dull them in every sense and they need to be able to burn off that excess energy as much as possible. A little TV does no harm, especially educational programmes, but it is essential to expose them to other activities.

Reading together as a family or playing board games together encourages mental stimulation, a sense of imagination and social interaction. Playing games with them and making crafts or even making cookies or cakes gives them a much broader view on life.

Physical activity too is so important as it keeps both the mind and the body healthy. Make time as a family to walk in the local park where they can run around and just be children, breathing in the healthy air and seeing a little nature.

Whatever you do, guide them and do not leave them to their own devices, expose them to as many different activities, cultures and types of food as you can to broaden their minds.