Pre-kids when I would go to festivals I was pretty baffled by parents taking their kids along. Not because I thought it was an unsuitable environment or on any other moral grounds. My confusion more stemmed from how the parents in question could actually have any fun with the kids in tow. It has to be said that my concept of fun was quite different back then. I kind of just assumed that people with children could only have fun in small snatches when the kids were at another location, at home with a babysitter or obliging grandparent.
It never occurred me that children actually make things more fun. Way more fun. For example, I was at a funeral recently watching the valiant efforts by one of the mourners to control her brood of three. As the business of mourning and saying goodbye to a loved one unfolded, the children concerned themselves with the business of being kids. They clambered over the pews, took numerous bathroom breaks, engaged in impromptu singing, did their colouring and generally lightened the mood exponentially. If kids can do that for a funeral, think what other situations they can improve.
This is when I realised that the formula for fun once you have a family is this; take one part mildly amusing outing, two parts parent and one or more parts children and the result will usually be fun. Occasionally infuriating, chaotic and messy, but fun nonetheless.
That is why this year I am really excited to bring the child to Body & Soul, which is a great entry-level festival for families who are just starting to explore bringing the kids.
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Amazing surprises for the kids[/caption]
Body & Soul has been delighting us for over ten years. The three-day event in Ballinlough Castle, Co. Westmeath has just announced the lineup for this Summer, which is whetting our appetites for music, mud and masquerade balls. The music line-up is eclectic and electric and as always there are loads of happenings like the Foraois Baths and Decadent Dining. The dedicated family camping area is available as always, and the Soul Kids tent will be there with everything from yoga to creative workshops to storytelling to delight the littlies. Visit
here for more info.
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A relaxing wonderland at Foraois Baths[/caption]
Tips for Festivalling with kids:
1 Go in advance of the crowds to help you and the little ones get your bearings.
2 Wet wipes. About 10 packs more than you think you'll need.
3 Snacks. Snacks, snacks and more snacks.
4 A wheel barrow is good for transporting kids around the fields.
5 Prepare for everything weather wise. Just accept you will be bringing a lot of crap on this trip.
6 Hot water bottles for cuddling up at night. The family camping area at Body & Soul has hot water to fill them.
7 Marker to write your mobile number on the kids, just in case.
