The average parent has to deal with six ‘family crises’ a day – including resolving sibling squabbles, dealing with tantrums and running late to appointments. A poll of 1,000 mums and dad of children aged 0-16 found disagreements over bedtime (17 per cent) and struggling to understand their youngster’s homework (17 per cent) are also among the daily conundrums they …

Nearly two thirds of dog owners want to get their pet involved in their wedding day – acting as ring bearers, bridesmaids and even the best man. Polling of 2,000 dog owners found 60 per cent already knew someone who had their dog at their wedding. The most popular roles for dogs on the big day were ring bearer (50 …

The nation has lost its spark for cooking with more than one in four unadventurous Brits reluctant to prepare anything new in the kitchen. A study of 2,000 adults found 29 per cent cook the same dishes on rotation, while a quarter admit they’re too lazy to search for new recipes. And 60 per cent only cook out of necessity, …

Research of 1,400 retired people discovered 27 per cent feel disconnected when loved ones’ social schedules ramp up as the temperatures rise, leaving less time for them to check in. And with the country experiencing record temperatures this summer, 43 per cent are also struggling in the heat, which can cause them to become isolated from their family and friends. …

Themed weddings featuring fancy dress outfits and banquets of McDonald’s and KFC are booming in Britain, according to research. A study of 2,000 adults found four in 10 have attended a ceremony, with a theme such as Lord of the Rings or Disney, and 21 per cent have been served takeaway food at the reception. Quirky costumes, bizarre cakes and …

A poll of 2,000 adults found they spend an estimated three hours a day deciding what to have to eat, what time to go to bed and what to wear and watch. But the average adult admits to changing their mind twice per decision, with more than one in 10 (11 per cent) doing so five or more times. Deciding …

Swimming can be the best sport to relieve stress while walking could clear a mental block, according to experts. TV personality and GP Dr Zoe Williams has recommended movements you can undertake to help improve certain moods. She advises getting some fresh air by walking if you are having a mental block or feel unmotivated can help give you a …

A poll of 2,000 adults found during the last year, those in the capital have taken in a total of 14 free items – that’s more than one per month – including things such as toys, children’s clothes and video games. Residents of Bristol claim the least free items – eight a year – but are the biggest collectors of …

Brits are most likely to smile when spending time with family, waking up to sunshine and making someone else grin. The poll of 2,000 adults found bagging a bargain and finding forgotten cash rounded off the top five things that make people happy. Hearing a baby giggle, a smiley stranger in the street, and being sent a meme also ranked …

Sally Rooney’s Beautiful World, Where Are You has been named the best holiday read – beating the Harry Potter collection and Fifty Shades of Grey. A poll of 2,000 adults revealed Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice and Harper Lee’s To Kill a Mockingbird completed the top five. The Boy in the Striped Pyjamas, by John Boyne, came sixth, followed by …