Little Luxuries and Big Smiles!

It’s no new thing that children are interested in being just like Mummy, and so while I was all about the blue eye shadow and heather shimmer lipstick as a little girl (in the 80s), it’s no wonder that these days, while the Mums have become a little more knowledgeable (and subtle in execution) our children are more about the pamper, the process, skin care and playing at all the same games little girls (and boys, I’m sure) have always enjoyed, but, with a bit more know how! Posie, just like her big sister at the same age, loves to have a little pamper party and with not just Mummy to emulate, but a far more on the button teenaged sister, she’s all set to be learning from the best when it comes to kids’ makeup!

Little Luxuries: Why Kids Love Skincare & Makeup (And Why It’s Lovely When Done Thoughtfully)

There’s something utterly magical about watching your child discover the world of little luxuries. I don’t mean the grown‑up kind—the serums that cost more than a weekly shop or the lipsticks we save for “best”—but the sweet, innocent kind. The kind that spark joy simply because they’re colourful, sparkly, or smell like strawberries. And honestly, I think that’s why so many children adore dabbling in skincare and makeup. When handled with care and a good dose of common sense, it becomes a gorgeous bonding moment rather than anything remotely grown‑up.

I’ve always believed that childhood should be full of play. Play with toys, play with imagination, and yes, sometimes play with our things—because nothing is more irresistible to a child than whatever Mummy keeps on the top shelf. But these days, with brands like Notino offering products made specifically for little ones, it’s easier than ever to let them join in safely. And let’s be honest: half the fun is doing it together.

The Joy of “Getting Ready” Together

If you’ve ever had a little one hovering next to you while you put on mascara, you’ll know exactly what I mean. They watch with wide eyes, soaking in every brush stroke like you’re performing some kind of glamorous magic trick. It’s not about the makeup itself—it’s about being part of your world and choosing them their own products, like specifically made nail polish for kids, rather than the chemicals that go into adult ones, not only makes them feel part of everything, but like they have their own things to bring to the party!

Introducing products that are suitable for them but make like being grown up, juts like you, can be such a lovely experience. Gentle formulas, soft colours, and wash‑off ease means there’s no worry about harsh ingredients or stained carpets and it becomes a moment of connection rather than a battle over your favourite palette. And honestly, there’s something heart‑melting about seeing a child’s face light up when they get their own little compact or sparkly lip balm. It’s like handing them a tiny treasure chest – and really, just the same sort of world play that they enjoy when pretending to cook using their toy kitchens or similar.

Skincare as Self‑Care (Even for the Littlest Ones)

Children don’t need elaborate skincare routines—far from it. But they do love the ritual and this is evident from classes like baby massage, designed to be enjoyed from new-born – I’ve done classes with all of mine and then incorporated it into our nightly and forever routine. A gentle moisturiser after bath time is a treat, and as they grow, a bath bomb with the bath and maybe a fun fruity spritz as well. Then, for special occasions a cute themed face mask for a sleepover can make them feel pampered in the sweetest way.

This is where things like kids’ perfume come in. Not the overpowering kind, of course, but the soft, playful scents made especially for children. Think marshmallow, peach, bubblegum—light, happy fragrances that make them feel special without making them smell like they’ve raided your dressing table. Posie loves a spritz of my perfume but it’s full of strong ingredients and far better for her to feel grown up with her own, more gentle version!

Nails, Glitter, Giggles

If there’s one thing that seems universally adored, it’s nail painting. Whether it’s a mummy‑daughter afternoon, a big‑sister bonding moment, or a sleepover activity, painting nails is always a hit. You can even get peel‑off formulas which are genius and mean no remover needed, no fuss, no drama. Just pure fun.

There’s something wonderfully nostalgic about it too – I remember painting my nails with my mum, and now, watching my own children do the same, I’m reminded that these tiny rituals become the memories that stick.

Keeping It Age‑Appropriate

Of course, the key is always thoughtfulness. Children don’t need contouring kits or smoky eyes. They need colour, creativity, and the freedom to play. That’s why I love that brands like Notino focus on gentle, child‑friendly products – A place where you can find a whole range designed exactly for this purpose.

It’s not about making them look older. It’s about letting them explore, express, and enjoy.

One More Thing To Remember

In a world that sometimes pushes children to grow up too fast, I think there’s something beautifully grounding about letting them enjoy these things in a safe, playful, age‑appropriate way. When skincare and makeup become tools for bonding, rather than beauty standards, they turn into moments of joy. Moments where you sit together, chatting about nothing and everything. Moments where you share stories, giggles, and glitter. Moments they’ll remember long after the nail polish has peeled off. And honestly, isn’t that what childhood should be?