Yep, it's that time of year again, and the kids are already way too over-excited. Keep them amused for 22 more days with this month's Lowdown, written by Heather Sinclair. And remember, it's never too early to start the "If you're not good, Santa won't bring you any presents" threats... ! 

It was the last day of kita today before the Christmas holidays, so in celebration we took the boys down to the Weihnachtsmarkt at RAW Friedrichshain, and discovered a whole medieval market  full of fun. 

The temperature's dropping below zero, the heating’s been on for weeks and it's dark at four...there’s no escaping the fact that we are on the chilling descent into winter. I find there is only one way to counter the gathering gloom: a glass (or bucket) of glühwein, enjoyed at leisure during a visit to one of Berlin’s vast array of Weihnachtsmarkts. Although essentially the same deal, each one has a slightly different atmosphere, ranging from totally commercial and a bit icky (see Alexanderplatz) to the quaint and traditional (see Alt-Rixdorfer), but whichever ones you decide to try, you can be sure of sparkly fairy lights, bratwurst, gifts galore and enough glühwein to shake a candy cane stick at.
 
This is not a completely exhaustive list, as there are literally dozens of markets going on, but I’ve tried to pick out the more family friendly ones, including some of my favourites. The list starts with those which have begun in the last few days, followed by the others in chronological order. All are free to enter unless otherwise stated. Go Forth and be Festive! 

If you don't own a bike in Berlin or are just visiting the city, that needn't stop you seeing the city on two wheels. There are a number of options available for renting bikes with child seats, children's bikes or bikes with a trailer and I am going to list them here for you. When picking up your bike rentals, don't forget to bring valid identification. 

Travelling with a baby can be great fun but it also comes with it's challenges. Berlin however is a very child-friendly city so there is no reason your visit to Berlin need be stressful. Here is my guide to visiting Berlin with a baby to help make your visit that much easier. 

Visiting Berlin with children needn't cost you the Earth. Whether you are planning a long weekend or a longer stay here, there are lots of free and cheap things you can do in Berlin that will keep the kids and you happy. 

Here are my tips for visiting Berlin with kids and a small budget...

Travelling with teenagers can come with it's own issues but they needn't be bored during their time in Berlin as the city is filled with things to see and do that will interest them. Here are my top tips for things to do with teenagers in Berlin...

Berlin is a city that offers a number of (generally) reliable transport options. There are S & U Bahn options throughout the city, a selection of trams in the East of the city (a sure sign that you are in East Berlin if you spot a tram track), taxis come with a built-in booster-type child seats (for older kids). Here are my tips for getting around Berlin with kids...

Travelling with a baby can come with it's own challenges but a visit to Berlin can be a wonderful experience for both you and your baby. Here are my tips on how to keep your baby entertained during your time in this fabulous city, whilst also getting to see the sights at the same time.