Safe Search Kids - Education, Parenting, Internet Safety for All

In 2021 alone, over 30,000 people were treated in emergency rooms for injuries linked to amusement and seasonal attractions, according to the Consumer Product Safety Commission. Despite the numbers, many parents overlook basic safety protocols.

You shouldn’t have to choose between magical holiday memories and peace of mind about your kids’ safety.

After analyzing safety data from the CPSC and reviewing protocols at 20+ holiday venues across the US and UK, we’ve identified the critical checks that separate truly safe locations from those that only look good in photos.

This comprehensive guide walks you through 10 practical tips to vet any Christmas venue, from certifications most parents rarely ask about to red flags hidden in online reviews.

You’ll know exactly what to verify before you book.

Tip #1: Start with Specialized Online Directories

Generic search engines show every venue in your area, but don’t tell you which ones work best for families. You’ll waste hours clicking through websites that don’t list basic details like age restrictions or accessibility features.

Specialized directories solve this by pre-screening venues and organizing information parents actually need. These platforms let you filter by specific criteria, such as indoor versus outdoor spaces, wheelchair accessibility, and age-appropriate activities.

Platforms like Christmas venues serve UK families by aggregating venues with detailed safety information, verified reviews, and filtering tools for specific needs. US parents can look for similar specialized directories in their region or use these criteria as a checklist when evaluating local Christmas attractions.

Tip #2: Read Reviews from Other Parents

Star ratings don’t usually tell the whole story. A venue might have 4.5 stars but still be a nightmare for families with young kids.

What to look for in parent reviews:

 How staff handled crowded situations

• Whether the venue felt safe for young children
• Any safety incidents or close calls
• Hidden fees or unexpected requirements
• Staff responsiveness to problems

Look for these reviews on Google, Facebook parent groups, and local parenting forums. Recent reviews matter most because venues change policies and staff. A review from three years ago might describe a completely different experience than what you’ll encounter today.

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Tip #3: Verify Safety Certifications and Compliance

Legitimate venues maintain current safety certifications and aren’t shy about sharing them.

Most venues display these certificates near entrances or post them on their websites. Any hesitation from venue staff about sharing certification information should raise red flags.

In many countries, including the UK, venues serving food must display hygiene ratings publicly. While the US system varies by state and county, you can typically find health inspection scores online on your local health department’s website. Look for recent inspections with high scores and no critical violations.

Tip #4: Assess Physical Layout and Infrastructure

Carefully review the venue’s photos, or visit in person before your event day. Age-appropriate design matters; decorations should be safely mounted, not dangling at eye level where curious toddlers might grab them.

Critical safety features to check: 

• Bright lighting throughout with no dark corners
• Clear emergency exit signs that aren’t blocked
• Secure fencing for outdoor areas
• Safe distance from parking lots or roads
• Non-slip flooring, especially near entrances

Check whether the equipment matches the allowed age groups. A venue advertising activities for toddlers but only having equipment designed for older kids creates injury risks.

Tip #5: Evaluate Capacity Limits and Crowd Control

Overcrowding turns fun events into stressful, potentially dangerous situations. Find out maximum capacity numbers, whether they use timed entry tickets, what happens if capacity is reached, and their refund policy if overcrowding occurs.

Venues with advance ticketing and specific entry times manage crowds better than those allowing unlimited walk-ins.

Look for venues that maintain clear pathways and designate separate zones for different activities. This prevents the chaos of too many families bottlenecking in one area.

Tip #6: Check Staff Training and Supervision Levels

The best venues invest in thorough staff training. Watch how staff interact with families when you visit. Are they actively watching children or standing around on their phones? Do they wear clear identification?

Key questions to ask: 

• What’s the staff-to-child ratio for supervised activities?
• Do staff members have first aid and CPR certification?
• How do staff communicate during emergencies?
• Is there a designated safety coordinator on duty?

 Professional venues maintain a visible staff presence throughout, especially near attractions where kids might need assistance or supervision.

Tip #7: Review Health and Hygiene Protocols

Clean facilities aren’t just about comfort; they’re about health and safety. Check restroom conditions, especially if you have young children who’ll need frequent bathroom breaks.

Venues with play areas and interactive activities pose additional health risks. Hand, foot, and mouth disease (HFMD) cases are surging across the US, with 198 outbreaks reported in 2025, compared to the typical 45-65 per year, according to Infection Control Today.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) notes that HFMD is most common in children under five and spreads quickly through contact with contaminated surfaces, shared toys, and droplets from infected individuals, precisely the conditions found at crowded holiday venues.

Ask venues about the frequency of cleaning for play areas, toys, and interactive displays, especially during the peak Christmas season when foot traffic increases.

Food vendors at Christmas events should display current health permits. If your child has allergies, confirm the venue can provide detailed ingredient information and has protocols to prevent cross-contamination.

Tip #8: Confirm Emergency Preparedness

Every venue should have clear emergency procedures. Proper emergency planning significantly reduces response times during incidents at entertainment venues.

Research shows that urgent EMS missions rise by more than 30% on major event days compared with regular days, meaning unprepared venues are at a distinct disadvantage when minutes count.

Essential emergency information to gather: 

• Location of all first aid stations
• Evacuation plan and designated rally points
• Lost child procedures and reunion systems
• Protocol for medical emergencies

Before you arrive, save the venue’s emergency contact number in your phone. Identify the first-aid locations upon entering. Establish a family meeting spot in case anyone gets separated.

Tip #9: Investigate Accessibility and Inclusivity

Safe venues work for all children, including those with disabilities or special needs. Some children get overwhelmed by crowds, noise, or bright lights. Venues that offer quieter alternatives or designated calm areas show they’ve considered different family needs.

Accessibility features to verify: 

• Wheelchair-accessible entrances and pathways
• Accessible restrooms with proper equipment
• Sensory-friendly hours or quiet spaces
• Staff trained in special needs support
• Accommodations for mobility devices
• Modified activities for various abilities

Ask whether activities can be adapted for children with different abilities. Inclusive design benefits everyone, not just families with specific accessibility needs.

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) requires public venues to provide reasonable accommodations. Don’t hesitate to ask what’s available.

Tip #10: Trust Your Parental Instincts

You know your children better than anyone. If something about a venue feels wrong, investigate further or choose somewhere else.

Maybe the staff seems distracted or unprofessional. Perhaps the space feels cramped or poorly maintained. Your gut reaction has value; don’t ignore it just because a venue has good reviews or convenient timing.

When possible, visit venues before booking for busy holiday events. Walk through the space, observe operations, and see if reality matches the website descriptions. Keep a backup venue option ready in case your first choice doesn’t meet expectations when you arrive.

Conclusion

Safe Christmas venues do exist; you just need to know how to find them. These 10 tips give you a framework for evaluating options and making informed decisions about where your family spends time this holiday season.

Start your research early. The best family-friendly venues book up quickly, especially for weekends and the week before Christmas. Taking time now to verify safety features, read reviews, and check certifications means you’ll spend less time feeling anxious and more time enjoying the holiday season with your kids.

Your diligence pays off in memories made without stress, injuries, or disappointment.

Sources:

Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). “Amusement Ride-Related Injuries and Deaths in the United States.” Available at: https://www.cpsc.gov/s3fs-public/pdfs/amus2001.pdf

Infection Control Today. (2025). “Unusual Surge in Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease Raises Public Health Concerns.” Available at: https://www.infectioncontroltoday.com/view/unusual-surge-hand-foot-mouth-disease-raises-public-health-concerns

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). (2024). “About Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease.” Available at: https://www.cdc.gov/hand-foot-mouth/about/index.html

Sunscreen is one of the most effective ways to protect your skin from the harmful effects of the sun. Ultraviolet (UV) rays, even on cloudy days, can cause sunburn, premature aging, and increase the risk of skin cancer. Using sunscreen daily helps shield your skin from these risks while keeping it healthy and radiant.

Many people think sunscreen is only necessary for summer or beach trips, but UV exposure occurs year-round. Regular application of sunscreen can prevent sun damage that accumulates over time, which often shows up as wrinkles, dark spots, or uneven skin tone.

Types of Sunscreen

Sunscreens generally fall into two categories: chemical and physical.

Chemical Sunscreens

Chemical sunscreens absorb UV radiation and convert it into heat, preventing it from penetrating the skin. Ingredients like avobenzone, octocrylene, and oxybenzone are common in this type. They are usually lightweight and suitable for daily use under makeup.

Physical Sunscreens

Physical sunscreens, also called mineral sunscreens, contain zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. They act as a barrier, reflecting UV rays away from the skin. These sunscreens are often recommended for sensitive skin as they are less likely to cause irritation.

Choosing the Right SPF

SPF, or Sun Protection Factor, indicates the level of protection against UVB rays, which are the primary cause of sunburn. An SPF 30 blocks approximately 97% of UVB rays, while SPF 50 blocks about 98%. Higher SPF offers slightly more protection, but no sunscreen can block 100% of UV rays.

For everyday activities, dermatologists recommend at least SPF 30. For extended outdoor exposure, such as hiking or beach days, SPF 50 or higher is advisable.

How to Apply Sunscreen Correctly

Proper application is key to effective sun protection. Follow these steps:

• Apply sunscreen 15–30 minutes before going outdoors to allow it to absorb.

• Use a generous amount; most adults need about one teaspoon for the face and neck, and a shot-glass amount for the entire body.

• Reapply every two hours, or more often if swimming, sweating, or towel-drying.

• Don’t forget often-missed areas like ears, back of the neck, hands, and tops of feet.

Common Myths About Sunscreen

Myth 1: Dark skin doesn’t need sunscreen

Research from MD Anderson Cancer Center confirms that while dark skin has more melanin, it is not immune to UV damage. Their dermatology experts explain that people with darker skin are less likely to get skin cancer, but they are still at risk, and dark skin can still burn.

Myth 2: Sunscreen is only for sunny days

According to the WHO, even on overcast or hazy days, UV radiation still gets through. In fact, thin clouds can scatter UV light and sometimes even slightly increase the exposure. So yes — you still need protection, because invisible UV rays can still harm your skin when it’s cloudy.

Myth 3: One application is enough

Sunscreen wears off over time, especially with sweat or water exposure. Reapplication is necessary for continuous protection.

Tips for Everyday Sun Safety

Sunscreen works best when combined with other sun safety habits:

• Seek shade during peak UV hours, typically between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.

• Wear protective clothing, hats, and sunglasses.

• Be cautious near reflective surfaces like water, sand, and snow.

Conclusion

Sunscreen is a simple yet powerful tool to maintain healthy skin. By choosing the right type, applying it correctly, and combining it with other sun-safe habits, you can enjoy the outdoors without compromising your skin’s health. Making sunscreen a part of your daily routine is an investment in both your appearance and long-term well-being.

Paint by numbers has experienced a massive resurgence across the UK, evolving from a nostalgic childhood pastime into a respected method for mindfulness and artistic expression. It offers a structured way to create stunning imagery without the daunting prospect of facing a blank canvas.

However, there is a distinct difference between simply filling in gaps and creating a piece of art that looks professionally finished.

If you are looking to transition from a hobbyist to a skilled painter, the technique matters just as much as the image you choose. Whether you are working on a standard landscape or a sentimental custom paint by numbers art kit, adopting a few advanced strategies can transform your final result from a simple colouring exercise into a masterpiece worth framing.

Here are five essential tips to elevate your skills from beginner to advanced.

1. The “Light to Dark” Philosophy

One of the most common pitfalls for beginners is attacking the canvas randomly. Experienced artists understand that the order of application is crucial. Always begin with your lightest hues before moving on to the darker tones.

The reasoning is practical: acrylic paint is generally opaque, but dark colours are far more dominant. If you accidentally paint over a border with a pale cream or yellow, covering it later with a deep blue or black is effortless. Conversely, trying to hide a dark smudge with white paint often requires multiple thick layers, which can leave an uneven texture. By starting light, you ensure a forgiving base that keeps your canvas looking crisp.

2. Curate Your Studio Space

You cannot produce high-quality work in a cluttered, dimly lit environment. Professional artists treat their workspace with respect, and you should too. Set up a dedicated area with a flat, stable surface and, crucially, excellent lighting. Natural daylight is ideal for colour accuracy, but if you are painting in the evening, a daylight-simulation lamp is a worthwhile investment to prevent eye strain.

Organise your workspace efficiently. Keep your water pot, paper towels, and brushes on your dominant side to avoid reaching across your wet painting. If you are using a personalised kit based on a photo, keep the original reference image propped up nearby. This allows you to compare the nuances of the image rather than relying solely on the numbered guide.

3. Master the Art of Layering

A tell-tale sign of a beginner’s painting is the visibility of the numbers or grid lines through the paint. To achieve a rich, professional finish, avoid the temptation to apply one thick glob of paint. Instead, embrace the technique of layering.

Apply a thin, even coat first and allow it to dry completely. If the number is still visible, apply a second coat. This method creates a smoother surface and ensures the colours appear vibrant and solid. It is particularly important for lighter shades, which naturally have less pigment density. Patience is key here; rushing to add a second coat whilst the first is damp will only drag the paint and create a streaky finish.

4. Brush Hygiene and Maintenance

Your tools are the extension of your hand, and their condition dictates the quality of your strokes. Acrylic paint dries rapidly and becomes water-resistant once set. If paint creates a build-up at the “ferrule” (the metal part connecting the bristles to the handle), the bristles will splay, making precision work impossible.

Get into the habit of rinsing your brush immediately after finishing a colour or even during long sessions with the same colour. Never leave brushes resting bristles-down in a water pot, as this bends the tip. By maintaining a sharp point on your brushes, you ensure you can tackle even the most intricate sections of your canvas with confidence.

5. Softening the Edges (Blurring)

Strictly following the lines creates a “mosaic” effect, which is classic for paint by numbers. However, to achieve a more realistic, painterly look—especially for portraits or clouds—you may want to soften the transitions between colours.

This is an advanced technique where you slightly blend two wet colours where they meet on the canvas. Alternatively, you can use a technique called “zig-zagging” with a very dry brush to break up the hard line between two dry sections. This is particularly effective when working on custom kits involving faces or animal fur, where sharp lines rarely exist in nature.

Conclusion

Becoming an advanced painter is not about talent; it is about patience and process. By organising your space, caring for your tools, and thinking critically about how you layer your colours, you can produce a painting that belies its numbered origins. Whether you are capturing a family memory or a scenic view, these tips will ensure your art stands the test of time.

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Practical fun tips for teaching art to kids.

Finding quality time to connect with your children can feel like a challenge amidst the daily shuffle of school, work, and household chores. Shared hobbies offer an excellent solution, creating dedicated moments for bonding while helping your kids develop new skills and passions. Below, we list some of the best hobbies that parents can share with their kids.

Cook Together

Turning your kitchen into a shared creative space offers benefits beyond simply preparing a meal. Cooking teaches children essential life skills, such as following instructions, measuring ingredients, and understanding kitchen safety. It’s also a fantastic outlet for creativity, allowing kids to experiment with flavors. Most importantly, working on a recipe together creates a unique opportunity for teamwork and conversation.

Bake Together

If your child has a sweet tooth, baking is also a culinary hobby that parents can share with their kids. From mixing the dough to decorating the final product, baking engages kids in a hands-on experience that improves coordination and focus. It’s a chance to introduce concepts like measurements, fractions, and timing, all in a practical and enjoyable context.

Explore the Great Outdoors with Hiking

A family hike is a fantastic way to promote physical health and an appreciation for the environment. It’s a great non-tech-related hobby to do with your kids as it offers a break from screens and the daily routine, providing a peaceful setting for genuine connection. Navigating a trail and discovering nature’s beauty together can powerfully strengthen your family bond.

To begin, choose trails appropriate for your children’s ages and fitness levels. Make it more exciting by creating a scavenger hunt where kids look for specific leaves, rocks, or birds. Packing a picnic for a scenic spot can also make the outing more memorable and rewarding for everyone.

Get Lost in a Good Book

Reading together is a timeless way to build literacy and spark a child’s imagination. It creates quiet, meaningful moments for emotional connection, away from daily distractions. It also encourages discussions about characters, plot, and lessons, helping children develop critical thinking and empathy.

Make reading a daily ritual by setting aside time each day. Take turns reading aloud to keep it interactive, or visit the local library weekly to explore new genres and authors.

Build Models

If your child loves building and trains, planes, or automobiles fascinate them, building models together is a great way to stoke their engineering interest and spend time together. It’s easy to get your kids involved in model railroading by starting small and slowly building your skills and interest together.

Building something tangible from start to finish fosters accomplishment and collaborative problem-solving. It’s a hands-on way to learn mechanics and history together.

Bond With Your Kids Over a Shared Hobby

These hobbies provide more than just something to do; they are gateways to deeper connections and shared growth. By choosing an activity to explore together, you are investing in your relationship with your child. Start today and discover which new passion will bring your family closer.