October is sneaky. It looks like a calm, cosy month. Then you turn around and it's half term, three birthdays and someone's asking what you want for Christmas.
If your to-do list lives mostly in your head (and pops up at 11pm), this one's for you. Here's everything worth writing down this month, plus a free printable to put it on.
1. Birthdays (there are more than you think)
October is a busy birthday month. Write down every birthday between now and mid-November, and who needs a card, a present, or both.
2. Half term
In Sheffield, October half term runs from 26 to 30 October. Dates vary by area, so it's worth checking your school's calendar now rather than finding out on the Friday. Jot down any childcare, days out, or "what on earth will we do" days.
3. The clocks go back
Sunday 25 October. An extra hour in bed, in theory. In practice, a small child who has no idea what a clock is. Plan a slow Sunday.
4. Halloween
Saturday 31 October, right at the end of half term. Two things to write down. The costume: find out what they want to be before the shops run out of it. And sweets for trick-or-treaters: buy them early, and hide them from yourself.
5. A first look at Christmas
Not the whole thing. Just a list of who you're buying for. Starting the list in October means November-you gets a head start, and December-you gets to actually enjoy it.
If you'd like to tick a few people off early, our curated gift boxes are chosen, wrapped and ready to go.
6. Little ones' bits
Party invitations, school letters, the costume they told you about last night. For small presents and party bags, the Pocket Money Shop has lovely things under a tenner, and 100% of the profits go to Sheffield Children's Hospital Charity.
7. Something for you
Even a small thing. A coffee on your own. An early night. Ten minutes with a notebook. It goes on the list, because things on the list get done.
Get the free October Little List
We've put all of this onto one page: the October Little List. Space for dates, birthdays, the "don't forget" bits, and one line just for you. Print it, stick it on the fridge, and let your brain have a little lie down. You can grab it below ↓
