the cocorio blog
Creative parenting, childcare guides and stories from our community.
91 posts
A Creative Christmas with CocoRio
At CocoRio, we believe the festive season is about more than just presents under the tree—it's a time for imagination, connection, and wonder. With children at home and the days getting colder, Chr…
CocoRio’s Code: Creative Childcare Framework
Childcare is much more than just supervision - it is the ground where our future thinkers, leaders and creators grow. At CocoRio, not only does our childcare instil creativity and curiosity, but ou…
CocoRio Childcare for Business
Modern workplaces are evolving, and so are the needs of working parents. CocoRio offers a unique solution by integrating childcare into business environments. Where work and childcare can co-exist.…
CocoRio Creativity: Cultivating Confidence Through Creativity (Copy)
Creativity is the foundation for growth. Traditional childcare focuses on developing fundamentals in your child, but CocoRio reimagines this. We infuse creativity, joy and fun into every meaningful…
Summer Sorted: CocoRio’s Guide to a Great Summer!
Summer is just around the corner—and while the kids are counting down the days until school’s out, many parents are wondering: How are we going to fill the next six weeks? From endless energy to ev…
CocoRio’s Core: Corinna and Léa’s story!
CocoRio - Smart childcare that creates confidence and promotes creativity. Connect with engaging and inspiring creative nannies and mentors - musicians, dancers, actors - who will foster curiosity …
Revolutionising Childcare Through Creativity
CocoRio revolutionises childcare by adding creativity to a traditional model
Why CocoRio, Why Now?
The World Has Changed. Childhood Shouldn’t Be Left Behind. In a world where screens dominate and childhood stress is on the rise, nurturing creativity has never been more important. 39% more childr…
Interview with Ami Okumura Jones - A West End CocoRio Creative!
Ami Okumura Jones is a talented actress known for her remarkable performances in both stage and screen. Recently, she starred in My Neighbour Totoro at the Barbican and took part in the thrilling N…
How to use our booking platform as a creative nanny and mentor
Exciting news! Thanks to our new booking system, it’s now easier than ever for families to book in their creative childcare, which means our wonderful creatives can now receive and be booked for jo…
How To Support & Help a Child with ADHD
In the UK, around 2-5% of school-aged children have ADHD. If you’re looking for childcare and wondering how to help a child with ADHD, you’ve come to the right place. At CocoRio, our creative…
How to use CocoRio during Half Term
You can officially call us your Half Term heroes. Why? We’re here to save the day when it comes to childcare over the school holidays. We know that the world doesn’t stop when your children a…
How CocoRio helps your child discover their creative strengths
How do I find out what my child is going to excel at, especially from a young age? This is a question we hear a lot from parents. And the good news is, we’re here to guide, facilitate and inspire t…
Everything you need to know about using CocoRio for your business
Fun fact: We love adding a creative sparkle to business events who provide childcare. Why? We believe work and childcare can co-exist positively - especially within the same setting. About CocoRio …
How to use CocoRio around your nursery schedule
Is your little one a new starter at nursery? Looking for childcare that fits flexibly around their nursery schedule? You’re in the right place. Our fully-vetted, creative nannies and me…
The Language of Play: Decoding Your Child's Imaginary World
Childhood play is not just a pastime; it's a language—a form of expression as rich and complex as any spoken word. For parents, understanding this language can be like deciphering a code, one that …
The ABCs of Emotional Resilience: Preparing Your Child for the New School Year
As the warm hues of summer give way to the crisp air of autumn, it's not just about stocking up on stationery and uniforms for the new school year. It’s about preparing our children's hearts and mi…
New Year's Revolution: Ditching Resolutions for More Meaningful Family Goals
ditching resolutions for more meaningful family goals
Half-Term Lifesavers: 20+ London Activities for a Spooktacular Break!
October half-term is just around the corner, and we know you're on the hunt for enriching experiences for your little ones. Well, guess what? We've got you covered with more than 20 Half-term activ…
7 Creative Ways to Cherish Your Kids' Artwork!
Deal with the volume of artwork produced by your children in 7 easy and creative ways
15 Family Things to do around London this Festive Season
As the festive season approaches, London transforms into a winter wonderland, offering an array of activities that promise to sprinkle magic and joy into the hearts of families. From the enchanting…
The power of language and multilingualism in child development: five core principles
Embracing multiple languages is a bridge to understanding, a passport to cultural richness, and a cornerstone for inclusivity.
All you need to know about the 30-hour free childcare scheme
Who is eligible for the Government 30hours of free childcare and how it works
4 creative ways to keep your children entertained while travelling
Summer holidays, incoming. As families venture off on their well-deserved break, one of the big questions for parents is…how will you keep your kids entertained on the journey? Whether you’re jetti…
How to book CocoRio entertainment for your next event
Celebrate your next event with a creative twist! CocoRio's creative entertainment service is led by fully-vetted, creative nannies and mentors who are also professional singers, dancers, actors, ar…
How to book a creative nanny or mentor with CocoRio
Ready to book a fully-vetted, creative nanny or mentor? It’s now easier than ever to find a child care arrangement that’s tailored to you, thanks to our new booking system. Simply follow the …
Top creative learning environments that inspire little learners
A t CocoRio , we believe learning outside the classroom in an unstructured, creative way is the key to unlocking your child’s true potential. From your garden to the local train station, there are …
CocoRio’s guide to co-working and childcare
You may not have thought about it before, but co-working and childcare can actually go hand in hand. That’s right, we believe co-working and on-site childcare provides a practical solution for ever…
Unlocking Work-Life Balance: One step closer to making work, work for parents
This groundbreaking legislation marks a momentous step towards creating a more supportive and flexible work environment for parents across the UK. In this blog post, we will delve into the world of fl…
3 reasons to choose a creative nanny share experience with CocoRio
Looking for childcare with a difference? Cue creative nanny s haring at CocoRio – the practical and fun solution to keeping your kids occupied (whilst giving you a well-deserved break). What is it?…
How to incorporate movement-based creativity into your little one's day
Movement-based creativity is all around us. You may not have thought about it before, but chances are your little one already loves being creative with movement. From toddlers who become hopping bu…
How to use a CocoRio nanny for summer events
From garden parties and weddings to christenings and birthday celebrations, summer is that time. No doubt that your diaries are already filling up with exciting events. But when you’ve got children…
Understanding and supporting ADHD in children
As parents, caregivers, and educators, it is essential to provide the necessary understanding and support to help children with ADHD thrive. By implementing behaviour management techniques, creating c…
Why is creativity important to a child’s development?
Every parent wants the best for their child. However, it can be overwhelming trying to understand all the advice when dealing with the development of your little ones. We’re here to make things eas…
Collaborative Parent & Child Tips to Tackle Back-to-School Anxiety
The turn of the year signals a return to the familiar rhythm of school life for families throughout the UK. While children may feel the flutter of nerves at the prospect of new teachers and classro…
New Year, new Goals!
Parenting is an adventure that is as demanding as it is rewarding, and setting intentional goals can be a powerful way to steer this journey toward growth and fulfilment. In this blog, we'll explor…
4 creative ways to make your own music at home
Newsflash: you don’t need to buy a musical instrument to make your own music. Why not look a little closer to home? When it comes to making music, we’re passionate about utilising the tools around …
Creative ideas to keep your children entertained this spring
Hello, spring! Goodbye, April showers! The new season calls for more outdoor play, exploring the scenes around us and discovering new ways to keep your little ones entertained. At CocoRio, we’re pa…
Best things to do in London with kids over the Easter holidays
Hello, Easter holidays! We’ve rounded up our top activities in London for your tots and teens that will keep them inspired and learning over the break. Need some ‘you’ time? Book a creative s…
DIY World Book Day costume gone wrong
It’s the 5th of March, two days until World Book Day and as I pick up my son from nursery, (which he attends part-time), his teachers tells me: “Since he won’t be here on Thursday, he can do World …
Tell a fairy tale day
Did you know there was such a thing as ‘Tell a fairy tale day’? Well now you do! On the 26th of February, you have all the excuses you need to read fairy tales to your little ones and enjoy your fa…
Double the fun and half the cost!
Ever thought of bringing together the neighbourhood children or keeping your children connected with their besties outside of school hours or during holidays? There lies the benefit in nanny shares…
Nurturing Creativity: Crafting a Year of Creative Goals for Your Kids for an Inspired and Child-Led Journey
In a world that's rapidly advancing, creativity isn't just an artistic endeavour; it's a vital skill for problem-solving, innovation, and emotional expression. At CocoRio, we believe in nurturing t…
Recurring, Part-Time, Flexible, Ad-Hoc? What does it all mean?
What does it all mean
Finding Festive Joy: Support for Mums During Festivities
Support for Mums During Festivities
Festive and Mindful: Tips for a Sustainable Holiday Season
festive and mindful tips for a sustainable holiday season
Safety Beyond the Playpen: Teaching Kids About Emotional Boundaries
In the nurturing embrace of childhood, where every toy and game is a learning opportunity, there's a crucial lesson that often goes untaught: the understanding of emotional boundaries. As we focus …
The Benefits of Child-Led Creativity
We believe in the boundless potential of a child's imagination and often, to allow it to flourish, a child-led approach is key. But what exactly does "child-led" mean? Let's embark on a journey to …
Mindful Parenting: yes, you can do it too!
Are you interested in the concept of mindful parenting but unsure as to where to begin? Does it sound complex and potentially even daunting? We’ve broken it down to make it easy to implement in you…
How to build a Stronger Bond with Your Child: 25+ Practical Tips
Today, we're diving into the heart of parenting by exploring the Five Core Principles that can significantly strengthen your relationship with your child. These principles aren't just words; …
Cultivate Brilliance: Science-Backed Benefits of Creativity in Your Child's Life
We talk about creativity and its value all the time, but today, we're not just skimming the surface; we're diving deep into the ocean of research and statistics that underscore the transformative p…
The Evolution of Parenting: Navigating the Complex Landscape of Today's World
Parenting do’s and don’t are ever-changing and never black and white, couple this with a fast evolving world and very quickly, parents can easily find themselves inundated and lacking the vital sup…
The 5 Main Areas of Child Development and the Role of Creativity in Wellbeing
Child development is a multifaceted journey, encompassing various domains that contribute to a child's holistic growth. From their first steps to their first words, every milestone is a testament t…
15 practical tips to start the school year strong
September is swiftly approaching, signalling the commencement of a fresh academic year. It's a time of transition, filled with both anticipation and challenges. But with the right preparation and m…
10 Essential Tips for Hosting Events while keeping kids happy
Top tips for ensuring kids at event have a fantastic time
Empower your kids for success with these 8 core skills
As parents, we all want the best for our children, nurturing them to grow into confident, capable, and compassionate individuals. Beyond academic achievements, mastering essential life skills is cr…
School holidays, yay or nay?
parenting Jul 7 Written By CocoRio As the school holidays approach, parents eagerly await the opportunity to spend quality time with their children. However, for many, the excitement is often accompan…
London’s Family-Friendly Cultural Delights
Family-Friendly Activities Jun 23 Written By CocoRio Administration Imagination, self-expression, and creativity are vital skills that children need to develop in order to thrive in today's ever-chang…
Taming Tantrums: Strategies for Dealing with Meltdowns
parenting Jun 16 Written By CocoRio Parenthood is a rollercoaster ride filled with joy, laughter, and, yes, the occasional tantrum. Tantrums can leave even the most patient parents feeling frazzled an…
Dealing with anxiety in children: Tips for Parents
In this blog, we will explore the topic of anxiety in kids, providing insights and practical tips to help you navigate this journey with your child. It's important to note that anxiety is a common men…
Celebrate the Coronation with our pick of the top events happening around London!
Some key events of the special weekend: - Saturday 6 May the Coronation Ceremony takes place at Westminster Abbey, London. - 6-8 May will see Coronation Big Lunches up and down the country and across …
Our top 12 picks for an activity filled Easter break
spring activities Mar 22 Written By CocoRio Easter is around the corner so we’ve compiled our top picks for exciting activities around London! From Easter egg hunts to family attractions, there are pl…
Bilingualism Myth Busters
parenting Mar 13 Written By CocoRio Multilingual and multicultural societies exist through their languages which transmit and sustainably preserve traditional knowledge and cultures. Globally, about 5…
International Women's day 2023
Women in business Mar 9 Written By CocoRio International Women’s Day is always a busy time for me. I am so incredibly proud to be thought of when planning panels and webinars for this extremely import…
10 activities to help boost your toddler’s development
parenting Mar 6 Written By CocoRio We spoke with our friends over at Babbu to find out more about boosting your toddler’s development, here’s what they shared with us! Personal and Social What am I l…
5 reasons to try CocoRio today
We love what we do, and the families we work with love the service. So we put together the top 5 reasons why you should try a CocoRio creative child care experience. 1. The benefits of creativity It’s…
Children and Mental Health
Children Illnessparenting Jan 4 Written By Coco Rio I was first diagnosed with Major Depression at the age of 12. My mum became concerned when I suddenly started making excuses and faking physical ill…
The Big Screentime Mum Challenge
parentingtips Dec 7 Written By Coco Rio The change in how we live and communicate How does screentime impact your child’s development Tips on how to manage from experts and other Mum’s. Globally our w…
Bringing the Great British Bake Off to you
Online Class for Kids Dec 6 Written By CocoRio Were you one of the 9.2 million viewers of The Great British Bake Off this year? I know I was!! The show was such a feelgood highlight to my week and alw…
November fun with your little Londoners
November activities Nov 2 Written By Coco Rio The days are officially starting to get shorter and the nights are longer. Colder days are descending upon us and we’ll be back to complaining about the s…
DIY Halloween Costume Ideas
Halloween costumes Oct 19 Written By Coco Rio Your kids are excited for Halloween and have been talking about it for weeks now. You don’t want to let them down but like any busy parent, you were preoc…
Back to school airfryer recipes under 10 minutes
school tipseasy recipes Sep 26 Written By CocoRio You’re well into the school routine now but that doesn’t mean things are easy peasy! Don’t worry, we’ve all been there. Starting from worrying about g…
5 tips for dealing with back to school anxiety
Education Sep 2 Written By CocoRio Do you recall the last day of summer? The final Sunday before a new school year begins? I used to feel so nervous and tense the night before. Will my buddies still b…
5 Creative Ways to make bedtime a bit less of a battle!
parenting Mar 17 Written By CocoRio You know the saying, “no one has a longer to-do list than a child who’s just been told it’s bedtime!” Bedtime with little kids can be a challenge, even for the most…
5 reasons why parents may want to see an Osteopath
parentinghealthy lifestyle Mar 4 Written By CocoRio Today, we’re focusing on YOU parents. We've teamed up with Osteo & Physio in Regents Park to bring you some information about ways you can look afte…
HALF-TERM MUST DO’S
spring activitiesGames for toddlersparenting Feb 9 Written By CocoRio Administration HALF-TERM IS JUST AROUND THE CORNER and we’ve heard it all before, “ What the hell are we supposed to do with the k…
Hot cocoa, crafts, and Christmas
You’ll want to fill up the sock with rice, making sure to keep Olaf’s bottom, torso and head tightly secured with elastic bands. Then you’ll want to cut out his arms, buttons and mouth from the black …
10 Easy tips for a successful and sustainable halloween season
1. Let’s start with one of our favourites, the octopus costume! Simple really, just fill four pairs of stockings with fabric/wool/cotton and attach them all together to a belt. This can be tied or sew…
Sitter and family FAQs: all your questions answered!
Let’s start off with some FAQs from our sitters! How do I get paid? Send us your invoice by the last Thursday of the month (circled in blue). For November 2021 this would be Thursday 25th November. Pa…
Discover the Most Innovative Child Care Agency 2021
award winnersinnovation Oct 12 Written By CocoRio Most Innovative Childcare Agency 2021 Trailer - YouTube Tap to unmute Most Innovative Childcare Agency 2021 Trailer CocoRio CocoRio41 subscribers Watc…
Meet Leticia, CocoRio Creative Sitter!
ActressCreative sitter Sep 23 Written By CocoRio A few months back, we sat down with Leticia Texidor, a young actor and acting coach, to find out a little bit about why she enjoyed working with CocoRi…
Work after mat leave? Tips and tricks for a smooth transition
parenting Sep 14 Written By CocoRio Most pregnant women look forward to their maternity leave. They often have preconceived expectations of what it’ll be like and are eager to start binge watching all…
Operation back to school
In fact, it’s only normal that both you and your little ones are feeling slightly uneasy about this return. We’ve gathered a list of our top tips to make the transition as smooth as possible, and hope…
Feed your bubba proudly
My mother only breastfed me for a couple of months and I kept myself informed on the realities of breastfeeding. The pain, mastitis, supply anxiety and other common struggles. When I had my first, I w…
How Much Should You Pay Your Nanny?
Options are endless and at varying price points and it’s easy to feel overwhelmed! We thought we’d save you the headache and summarise it all for you. Let’s quickly touch on nurseries and childminders…
5 Tips To Keep Your Only Child Happy And Healthy
mum lifecreative children Jun 16 Written By Coco Rio Do you wonder if your only child will feel lonely? Does the constant request for a sibling worry you? You are not alone. It’s no secret that only c…
Another award in the bag!
The judges selected the winners based on their commitment to excellence, innovation and growth of their business, demonstrated through their business performance, achievements, brand values and passio…
How To Help A Child Who Doesn’t Like Reading
creative children May 12 Written By Coco Rio What to do if your child doesn’t like reading and writing? Discover why it is important to insist creatively and try our CocoRio tips! Screens VS Books Do…
10 egg-citing must do’s in London this month
spring activities Apr 6 Written By CocoRio It’s the holidays! This can come with a mixed bag of emotions. If you’re taking some time off too, this is often a great time to catch up with the little one…
Easy Christmas Crafts for Kids
creative children Dec 1 Written By Coco Rio If you are looking for easy craft activities to do with your children of any age, that can take a flexible amount of time keeping them busy for as long as y…
Ad hoc child care for your summer event!
Well, wonderful parents, it’s time to let CocoRio spread its wings! Our multitalented facilitators can sprinkle a little creativity onto your day help you keep your children busy. So chill out and soa…