Peter Pan fathers Whilst fathers are not physically getting any younger, there is evidence that their mental age may be falling. The BBC recently reported that a new type of dad had emerged – “gadget dad”, whilst in November last year, Guardian reported that men were significantly delaying fatherhood. In a study by Panlogic, “gadget dads” love technology and have all latest tech toys, from Sky TV to a car navigation system. Perhaps this love of tech toys is also reason inhibiting men from diverting funds to babies. According to Guardian, 81% of men admitted that financial fears would make them postpone having children and if current trends continue, average age of men becoming fathers will rise to 40 by 2065. Virgin Money Life Insurance also reported in their studies that new fathers were waiting longer to start families and that UK fathers are working longest hours in Europe.

Savvy kids A recent investigation by Halifax found a positive attitude towards saving is increasing amongst children. Whilst in 1998, a third of children saved more than they spent; now that figure is over fifty percent. The bank discovered that most children are prepared to save for an expensive item, though parents of younger children faced more of a struggle, as 22% of seven to eleven year olds pestered their way towards getting what they wanted. Piggy banks, it would seem, may become sentimental souvenirs, as more children save their money in a bank or building society.

This trend of ‘keeping up appearances’ seems to induce individualistic behaviour in families, reducing co-operation on financial issues. This erodes family values in society and discourages future generations from investing in children. Without motivation to invest in sustainable communities or even a sustainable standard of living, (currently supported by £1.1 trillion of debt), issue of successful management of family finance remains trivial.

Additional information: Family finance information: http://www.moneynet.co.uk/ Useful brochures & fact sheets from http://www.unbiased.co.uk/website/brochures/ Random financial ranting: http://cashzilla.blogspot.com/

Rachel writes for Cashzilla: http://cashzilla.blogspot.com/

Rachel drinks Guinness and went cycling in Dumfries & Galloway at the weekend.

Tired of walking? What about a carriage ride? Whether you are with your mate and look to incorporate some romance mixed in with your vacation or you have whole family, including kiddies, it is magical to be pulled by ever popular horses expertly chauffeured by a city guide.

Afterwards, you may be drawn to take in sites where parts of movie "National Treasure" were filmed. See if you can follow trail of clues outlined by movie in this city's most famous landmarks.

After a glimpse of city spectacles, save time for a drive to Valley Forge for more learning about history of this historical area.

Valley Forge is notorious for Washington's encampment with his troops in winter of 1777. Washington's headquarters and his troops log cabins are available for viewing. The National Historical Park's 3,600-acres of rolling hills provides beauty in any season and is especially inviting for outdoor lover with miles of trails to hike, bicycle and rock climb.

If you enjoy water, you can partake in fly fishing and kayaking. Landlovers have an abundance of activities including horseback riding, bird watching and nature centers to visit.

Other activities include cross country skiing, ice skating, maple sugaring and apple festivals.

Rich in culture, Philadelphia has something for all. Don't be surprised if you determine multiple visits are required to get a taste of this bountiful area!