Browsing Tag

children

Lifestyle & Social

Where I’m clicking for educational screen time

18th September, 2021

Being at home with both Sophia and Grace over the last few weeks has made us have to be re-think screen time. With Luke and I still trying to work, it means that at times we have to rely on screens to keep the girls occupied. And while sometimes all they want to do is watch Frozen or another Disney princess movie, we have been trying to balance that with being able to watch and engage with shows or games that are educational too.

One of the most helpful things for us has been the list of recommendations I’ve gathered from friends and family and Grace’s pre-school for great educational programs, games and shows for kids. With the focus of most of these online resources being on literacy and maths, it has been great for building on the things the girls have been learning at school and at pre-school. There have also been some really fun activities such as visiting some of the world’s best museums virtually or story time online that has entertained the girls and allowed them to learn at the same time.

I know there are countless parents out there in the same boat right now so I thought I’d collate the most popular sites that parents can check out, based on the recommendations I’ve been using during isolation. There’s a great mixture of learning tools, shows and games so hopefully it makes navigating screen time a little easier.

Online resources

There’s a mixed bag on this list, with the majority focusing on reading and writing and maths. There are different levels with most of the programs so they’re suitable for different ages. Some require sign up whereas others you can just launch straight into the program or games. Hopefully there’s something here that you and your kids will approve of.

Starfall

ABCYa

Funbrain

Splashlearn

Story Online

PBS Kids

Highlights Kids

Coolmath4Kids

MathGameTime

Unite for Literacy

Literactive

Science Kids

Switch Zoo

Seussville

Turtle Diary

E-learning for kids

BrainPop

Curiosity Stream

Tynker

Outschool

Khan Academy

Creative Bug

Scholastic learning magazine

Museum virtual tours

YouTube Channels

YouTube: more than just cat videos! There are some really good educational channels to check out on this platform. While you can find virtually anything on YouTube, I’ve found most of the kids’ channels are great for science and geography content as you can check out everything from sharks and dinosaurs to doing experiments and profiling different countries around the world. I’ve listed a few below but a quick search based on subject matter will unearth plenty of options.

Crash Course Kids

SciShow Kids

Science Channel

National Geographic Kids

Free School

Geography Focus

SciShow

Kids Learning Tube

Geek Gurl Diaries

Mike Likes Science

Science Max

Fashion, Lifestyle

The toddler essentials I can’t live without

18th July, 2018

Once we graduated from the baby stage into the toddler phase with Sophia, all of a sudden we had a whole new set of concerns to contend with. From wanting to jump out of bed a little too early to toilet training, she was all of a sudden in a new stage of independence that saw us having to adjust accordingly. We slowly discovered some handy gadgets and additions into our home that made things a little easier. Now Grace is about to enter into the same phase, we’re going back to these tried and tested favourites to help us once again. If you’ve got a little one that’s around the same age I highly recommend checking out the below. I always love it when other mums recommend things to me that they’ve found successful with their own kids so hopefully there’s something in the mix that might help you out too!

 

Sam the Sheep clock

This was a lifesaver with Sophia and I’m about to use it with Grace. It really helped Sophia as often she would wake up early and not know what time it was and just automatically get up even if it was 5am. But with the Sam the sheep clock, if the sheep was still asleep she would know that it was still bed time and would usually resettle herself. I’ll often still use the clock with Sophia if we’ve been overseas and she’s a bit jetlagged and is waking up too early or if she’s just a little out of her routine and I need to reset her wake times.

Image via Pillow Talk

Brolly sheets

When Sophia was being toilet trained these were super helpful with overnight sleep and any potential accidents. You just lay them across the bed (like a towel) so if there is an accident through the night you could quickly rip off the top layer and not have to change a full bed.

I still use them if either child has a vomiting bug as they can be used the same way and it means I don’t have to fully disturb them and remake the whole bed. I will definitely be using them again when Grace is ready to be toilet trained.

The Original Learning Tower

Grace is using this now and it’s such a great addition to our kitchen. It’s a little step that allows her to climb up so she’s at bench level and can be part of the action. Whether she uses the bench space for snack time or play time, she can just climb up whenever she wants. It’s adjustable too so she’ll be able to use this little step till she’s six. This is especially great if you love having your kids get involved in cooking or baking.

Image via Target Australia

Bed rails

It can be a big adjustment going from a cot to a big bed and I found these to be a great way to ease a little one into the transition. Grace is still in her cot but Sophia used these when transitioning into a bed and it made her feel safe and secure so we will be getting them out again when the time comes.

Tell me—what are some of your toddler essentials?

Fashion

What I Wore: Easter Time

24th March, 2018

I’m so looking forward to the Easter long weekend next week. I love being able to hang out with my family, especially Luke and the girls and just enjoy spending time together relaxing. And hey, it’s also a good excuse to enjoy an Easter egg or two!

It’s always nice to dress the girls up a bit during this time, especially when they’re off on an Easter egg hunt as it makes for such cute photos to look back on. I wanted to go all pink this year with the girls’ outfits and it was Seed Heritage to the rescue. They had so much pink to choose from that it was actually hard to narrow it down to just two looks. In the end I settled on the below ensembles as I love the cute bunny motif on Grace‘s dress and the pom poms on Sophia‘s jumper. Also it was pretty much mandatory that we incorporate a tutu in the mix.

As for my look, I thought red would make a great contrasting shade to the girls’ pink outfits. I’ve found grey is always such a good colour to pair with red so finding these jeans at Seed was a good find. Plus the outfit is so comfortable so it’s ideal for running after two excited and active little girls who have been enjoying a few chocolate eggs!

Credits: Kate: Jumper, Jeans Sophia Jumper, Tutu, Backpack, Gumboots Grace: Dress, Shoes, all from Seed

Photography: Sophia Athas

This post was created in collaboration with Seed

 

Lifestyle

Lessons I’ve learnt as a mum

8th June, 2017

Sophia recently turned three and it had me reflecting on my time being a mum. The time has really flown and the girls are growing up so quickly. Life has definitely changed for the better and also for the busier and I certainly don’t have as much free time as I used to have but there’s not a thing I would alter. Embarking on motherhood is one of the most daunting things I think a woman can ever face, and it comes with its ups and downs but it’s certainly rewarding and truly special. Here’s what I’ve learnt in the process…

Always trust your instincts

They say mum always knows best and I firmly believe this to be true. I’ve learnt to always trust my gut when it comes to the girls. Whether it’s when they’re sick or managing their day to day routine, I always rely on my mum radar to help guide the way. There are moments when it’s only natural to second guess yourself but I find that when it comes to parenting it’s always important to let your instincts point you in the right direction. More often than not they will never fail you.

Enjoy the little moments

Time really does fly. I can remember when Sophia was just a newborn and now she’s her own little person with her own distinct personality. Meanwhile it only feels like yesterday that I had Grace and now she’s growing so fast. This has taught me to really stop and appreciate the small moments I have with my girls. Whether it’s conversations over breakfast, cuddles before bedtime or just watching them accomplish and hit certain milestones I have to remind myself to stop and be in the present and take it all in. It’s easy to get caught up in the insanely busy nature of having two kids but I have to remind myself that they won’t always be little and they’ll have their own lives one day so I’m trying my best to appreciate all the beautiful, sweet moments we have together.

Don’t be afraid to ask for help

If there’s one thing I’ve learn as a mum is that there’s no way I can do it all on my own. I’m lucky to have such a great and supportive network around me in the form of my husband, family and friends and it’s taught me how important it is to have that in place in order to maintain my sanity! Whether it’s being desperate for a few hours sleep or just needing assistance around the house, parenting can be overwhelming at times and there’s no harm in admitting that you need help once in awhile. It takes a village, right?

 

Lifestyle

What I do if I know I need to get out the door fast

8th February, 2017

If I need to get me and the girls out door fast then preparation is key. Gone are the days when I could just grab my bag and walk out the door! When I need to be somewhere first thing in the morning then I have to get everything ready the night before, if I don’t it’s always a disaster and it never quite works out. I’m generally not the most organised person around so this is definitely something I trained myself to do.

One of the key things I do is make sure I have the baby bag packed up for Grace, Sophia’s essentials ready and have everything I need already in the pram so I just need to walk out the door. This saves me from having to run around trying to locate various things in the morning as I will inevitably not be able to find it. Plus this is often how I’ll find myself out and about and missing something crucial because I’ve forgotten to bring it with me. I also lay out the girls’ outfits the night before so I just have to dress them and I also plan what snacks I’m going to bring. I make sure the lunchbox is ready to go but I’ll often cut up anything perishable like fruits in the morning so it’s still fresh – I have to make sure I factor in time for this though!

If we’re going down to our family farm then this process becomes even more involved. Often I’ll drive down ahead of Luke so I don’t get stuck in traffic and this requires having to pack up the whole car and the girls and it ends up being quite a mission. To get around this I make sure I load everything into the car the night before so Luke is around to help in case I need him. I make sure to pack the pram, pack the girls’ bags and have their outfits ready to go so all I need to do is give them breakfast in the morning. We often bring food as well so I’ll do all my grocery shopping ahead of time so we have the right food for the kids and also Luke and I as well. I think when time is of the essence the more that can be done in advance the better otherwise it all ends up being a rather stressful experience which is definitely the last thing I need when I’ve got the girls in tow!

What are some of your tips for getting out the door fast when you have kids in tow?

 

Fashion, Lifestyle & Social

Shop the look: Kids

12th January, 2016

Not sure what to get the little ones in your life? I’m always on the look out for gifts for my friends’ kids and also my niece and nephew so I’ve built up quite an extensive list of great presents for children. There’s always birthdays around every corner so here’s what I’ll be keeping on my list:

BUILDING BLOCKS: Beatrix Potter 

There’s something quite whimsical about a set of building blocks and this Beatrix Potter set is adorable.

SHOES: Polo

Stylish and comfortable, these Polo sneakers are great for kids who are active and always on the go. (Might want to keep them indoors on a rainy day though!)

TOP: Country Road 

A great summer print for little boys, this is the perfect tee for the warmer months.

CHINOS: INDIE Kids 

I couldn’t resist these chinos! They can be dressed up or down so are a great addition to any child’s wardrobe.

SOFT TOY: Jellycat

These are so super soft! They’re great as a baby gift and is something that can grow with them.

METAL CAR: Vilac

I love the old school look of this toy car. I’m sure any child would get hours of enjoyment from riding around with their own set of vintage wheels.

BIKINI: Zimmermann

I can’t resist Zimmermann when I’m bikini shopping for myself so I couldn’t go past this set for little girls. The print and ruffles are the perfect beach day look.

OVERALLS: Country Road

Denim pieces are great because they can be matched with virtually anything so you can be sure it’ll get plenty of use. Plus who can go past the cute factor of overalls?

DOLL HOUSE: Le Toy Van 

I think almost every little girl dreams of having her very own doll house. This house is particularly pretty and I’m sure would make a welcome addition to any toy collection.

Lifestyle

My tips for travelling with kids

15th December, 2015

sophia airport

We’ve always travelled with Sophia a lot but most of our trips were interstate trips. However earlier this year we had to fly to Sweden to attend a relative’s wedding which meant we had to face the daunting prospect of doing a long haul flight with a very active 14 month old! I’m a big routine person but when you’re on a plane generally all rules fly out the window and the aim is just to make the flight as comfortable as possible for you and your child. We’re heading off on a family trip overseas this week and these are some of the tips I’ve picked up along the way that I’ll definitely be using.

Bring entertainment

It goes without saying that you need to come armed with toys and activities to keep your child amused. However schedule the toys so they’re given one new toy at a time and introduce a new toy only once you see boredom start to set in. Toys that can keep them amused such as colouring books and puzzles are great and if you have one at your disposal bring an iPad. I usually load one up with Sophia’s favourites, such as episodes of Peppa Pig and Peek-a-boo farm apps. I also try and bring one of Sophia’s toys (or you could also bring a blanket) to give her something familiar from home during the flight.

Load up on snacks

Airline food can be a bit hit and miss so I bring plenty of snacks for Sophia which keeps her fuelled up.

Time your long haul flights

If you can, try and schedule yourself to fly on an overnight flight to help to fall in line with your child’s sleeping times.

Come with a well stocked baby bag

Arriving to a new, unfamiliar destination and frantically running around trying to find a place to buy nappies does not make for a great start to a trip. This is why it’s important to come armed with all the essentials you’ll need for at least two days to give yourself enough time to acclimatise to your destination without having to factor in replenishing your supplies. I always bring:

  • Nappies
  • Baby wipes
  • A change mat
  • Bottles for milk and a spill-proof sippy cup
  • Snacks
  • A first aid kit with kids’ Panadol, thermometer, band-aids, nappy rash cream, teething gel
  • Hand sanitiser
  • Spare clothes

Accept help

Spending hours on a plane trying to keep a baby or toddler entertained and under control can be exhausting so if someone offers to help, take up their offer. This can be everything from entertaining your child while you quickly eat your meal or even just letting you in front of them in the queue to board the plane.

Board early

Speaking of boarding, be sure to try and board early. This will enable you to have plenty of time to store all your belonging and get your child settled.

Book a bassinet

Sophia is now too big for the bassinet so she sits on our lap but if your baby is young enough definitely get the bassinet if you can, ring the airline well in advance because usually you have to reserve it. If you can, also ask at check in if you can be seated somewhere with a vacant seat next to you as this gives you a bit more room.

Bring plenty of milk

I find Sophia drinks so much more milk on planes so I always pack more than needed as I don’t want to be stuck without. I also give her a bottle during take off and landing to help relieve the pressure in her ears.

Organise a small go-to bag of essentials

It can become quite cumbersome having to lug a baby bag around every time you need change a nappy so pack a zip lock bag with some nappies, wipes and a change mat to help make it easier. Those small toilets are hard enough to navigate without bringing a big baby bag into the mix!

Always bring extra clothes

It goes without saying you’ll need some spare clothes for your child but don’t forget about you too. Accidents happen and you don’t want to spend the rest of your flight in a t-shirt covered in milk because you have nothing else to change into.

Invest in travel specific accessories

We bought a Baby Zen YoYo pram for our last trip and it was great as we were able to take it onto the plane. It’s compact enough to tuck away into the overhead compartment so we didn’t have to go through the hassle of checking it in. Plus it’s great for when you’re in transit. Also if the hotel we’re staying at doesn’t have a cot I bring a Baby Bjorn travel cot. It can be set up and dismantled quite easily so it’s handy to have around plus it’s something Sophia is already familiar with.

What are some of your tips for travelling with kids?