Use the checklist below to make diary notes now, and make sure nothing's missed:

> Birthdays: all – plus any 'big' numbers this year?

> Anniversaries, christenings, family gatherings, weddings, dinner parties, girls' weekends, classmate parties

> School events, outings, performances and club dates

> Graduation, University Open Days

> After-school tutoring dates or revision clubs

> Check booking dates for holiday camps, football, judo, tennis and swimming terms – to secure places early

> Sports fixtures

> Driving lessons and test dates

> Check school emails / WhatsApps for dates coming up soon

> Concerts, entertainment and family day trips already booked

Flag any of the above where a present should be bought (e.g. end of year or term for tutors, birthdays) – set a reminder 2 weeks in advance to give yourself time to organise them.