Taking a baby or toddler to a festival might seem like something only the truly mad would entertain.
I thought that after becoming a mum I'd happily hang up my party pants and stay at home baking cakes.
Turns out I'm a terrible cook and I still love to party with the best of them - albeit with a much earlier bedtime.
Desperate to listen to live music in a field while feeling slightly smelly, I decided to find a festival that would also give my son a load of new experiences.
Of course, picking the right festival is key. Creamfields and kids are never going to mix - and they're not allowed anyway. But there are many others who have made children a whole part of the vibe.
Standon Calling in Hertfordshire is one of those catering to not only the wavy ravers but also to the mum and dad crew. Even dogs are invited.
It's subtly geared towards families, offering four days of hedonism, whatever your age.
Note for anyone reading this who doesn't have kids - don't worry, it's not like a day out to the Whacky Warehouse, kids don't rule the roost.
But it is set up in an inclusive way so that if you want a dirty 2am boogie then that's no problem, but equally if you fancy watching a Dick and Dom DJ Battle at 2pm that's also fine.
For anyone thinking of taking the plunge and carting the kids along to Standon Calling, or any other festival, here's a helpful rundown of what to expect...
Kids are actually welcome
At Standon, they're not just tolerated, they're a big part of the whole thing.
There's a massive field dedicated to their enjoyment with arts, crafts, face-painting, music and stories.
Babies and younger kids can chill in the sensory bell tent that's stacked full of nappies and wipes for anyone running short.
And there's no reason for the children to be bored with a packed line-up. On top of that, there's a swimming pool with inflatables and an annual costume parade that the little ones - and big ones - love.
Yes, it's a world away from spending the day and night in a dance tent, but it's still good fun nonetheless.
Forget bedtime
Honestly, no-one is going to judge if your child is sleeping in the buggy at 9.00pm while you're dancing to Annie Mac.
Take toys and snacks if your children are too young to appreciate the music and protective headphones to keep little ears safe and you're sorted.
Have some adult time
Wait for it - there's a big perk, and that's a creche! Nannies in The Mortimer Tent will look after your bambino at their 'stay up late' sessions each evening so you can go dance, eat, drink or just relax in a hot tub.
They only take kids over two though, but for younger ones there's the option of an in-tent nanny. All are fully qualified and DBS checked.
Eat everything!
If you're at the weening stage and beyond then your child will be in heaven with all the new flavours to try. There's healthy Buddha bowls, fruit-packed breakfasts, poke, pizzas, mac and cheese and whole foods galore. Try an artisan toastie for breakfast, Indian Kati Rolls for lunch and Latin flavours for dinner.
Stay in style
You can either take your own tent and camp in the family field, which is conveniently located near both the car parking and the festival to save tired legs.
There are also luxurious Boutique Camping options with ready-made bell tents and yurts complete with beds, tables, towels and bedding.
Or you can opt for a pre-erected Camplight tent which again comes with an airbed and other camping accessories of your choosing.
Tickets for Standon Calling 2023 are now on sale here.
