What does the word panto connote to you? It takes me back to auditoriums filled with sticky excited E numbered kids watching bejeweled men and women dance around in elaborate finery. There would be lewd jokes, men in drag and the obligatory, ‘He’s behind you’ catcalls, combined with the inevitable happy ending and feeling of magic. Cinderella was always my favourite, but I also have a soft spot for Aladdin, and it seems Selfridges buyers echo my feelings of nostalgia.
This year the store is going to be bedecked in gaudy colours and panto-style accessories, with a whole range of beauty products to match! They’re releasing a makeup and skincare line of pantomime themed products and have a selection of other lovely tidbits to offer with names such as ‘the Peter Pan anti-aging night cream for men, for the boy who won’t grow up’ and the ‘Sleeping Beauty transforming night cream for happy ever after skin £15′. I’ve seen the mock ups of the packaging and it’s lovely- think Soap & Glory meets Benefit with some showgirl razzle dazzle.
They have a lot more goodies on offer though, with exclusive collections from some big name brands-here’s what you’ll be wanting under your tree this year!
Games and kids. They go together like Ribena and Hobnobs or anything of the confectionery nature, but all too often parents tend to regard console antics equal to truancy in terms of desired activities for their lil ‘uns. But I don’t think this is necessarily fair or wise, and think the perception that games ares somehow wasteful, pointless and a bad influence should be counteracted.
I’d go so far as to say kids should be actively ENCOURAGED to pick up a Playstation pad as there is wealth of learning to be had from gametime that will be invaluable to their future development.
And here’s why.
-They teach you patience and reward you with bonus levels
How many hours did you have to play Zelda before you learnt the moves that would unlock the realm? It wasn’t just handed to you on a plate now was it- to succeed in games takes time, skill and dedication, all qualities we should want to foster in the youth of today. Magical realism now, surgeons of the future in ten years?
-They improve hand eye co-ordination
Team games are great but not every kid has the skills or the confidence to run straight into rounders or tennis. The majority of games require you to be very dexterous with your fingers which will improve your ability to react and interact with moving objects. Naturally the Wii takes this to a whole new level, and should boost confidence and aptitude when playing IRL. Read more…
Embrace the pitfalls of recession with buttons that let everyone know how you’re feeling. Maybe you’re having a good day or maybe you’ve sunk to the depths of despair; if these don’t make you smile it’s time to get a prescription of diazepam.