by Victoria
I was just reading a mother's account of caring for her newborn baby and dealing with sleep deprivation in the papers and it struck a chord. She talked about hallucinating that her baby's head spun around like Chucky when she was in hospital, after giving birth. She continued to breastfeed, even though that was causing her to have little sleep, because of the relentless advice she was receiving that breast was best (it is but at what cost?). She would have at most, a 45 minute unbroken sleep at night. Once, when she was advised to pump her breast milk so she could sleep through the night while her husband tended to the baby, she woke in the middle of the night to see their baby asleep on her husband's chest. She snatched the baby up, which woke everyone up. While struggling to get sleep, she was also struggling to be the perfect mother. It all sounded so familiar and speaks of an inner battle most new mothers and fathers would understand.
Our Miss P is now 21 months old but it was only 3 months ago that she started to sleep through the night. Before that, she would have slept through the night less than 5 times since she was born. I never knew what torture was like until I suffered sleep deprivation. I was angry, impatient, and tired physically, mentally and emotionally. Everything was a drag. I would think of my day ahead and wonder how I would survive the day feeling so tired and having to care for her. Some days I still feel like that but these days, it's usually because I was up reading late into the night, so entirely my fault.
I remember that when Miss P hadn't yet slept through the night, every evening, before Mr B and I went to bed, we would wonder how many times she would wake up and how long it'll take us to get her back to sleep. I remember feeling quite depressed knowing that we'll have an interrupted night's sleep ahead of us. Even Mr B would comment about how depressed he was thinking about the night ahead, which was unusual for him as he tend not to be as forthcoming with his feelings as I am.
I recall feeling sad for myself when I would read my friends' facebook statuses either that their child slept through or that they had one bad night. I was thinking "one bad night? I haven't yet have one good night!" Here I was struggling to get 5 hours of unbroken sleep and I found myself sometimes resenting having chosen to be a mother. I didn't resent Miss P, just the difficulties of motherhood and sad that I didn't have another pair of hands in the day when Mr B was at work.
What caused Miss P to begin to sleep through? We have no exact answers but there were a few things that happened during that time. One, after being stubborn about it for so long, I gave up my cappuccino fix that I would have several times a week. It was also around this time that we took Miss P to a playschool concert and bought her a Jemima doll which she took a liking to and would take her pretty much everywhere with her. We tucked Jemima in bed with her and found that over time, when she would cry out at night and my husband would get up to her, she would cuddle Jemima, kiss her several times, and get back to sleep. We tried to give her several comfort options previously but she never took to them. Now, she has found her comfort doll. We were so happy! It was like the antidote we were looking for but had no idea which one would work. I had also chosen then to give up the night feeds which meant Mr B got up to her, instead of me.
After the experience of sleep deprivation, what would I say to parents who are currently sleep deprived? Take turns to get up to the child at night, ask different people for help in the day so you can nap. Make sleep your 1st priority. Even if you can't actually sleep, lie down and rest. It is calming and gives you a chance to take a break. With practise, it is likely you would fall asleep more easily the next time. Don't be disheartended if someone remarks that your child should sleep through the night by now. Each child, like every adult, is different. They will sleep through the night in their own time. For now, catch sleep whenever you can, and don't take on the mothering role alone. Remember the saying, "it takes a village to raise a child".
Saturday, July 30, 2011
Friday, July 29, 2011
Style Camouflage truck pant (with bag) - Product review
By Bec
I bought these pants for my son as he loves "Army Man" pants and these have been a winner! I would say these are my 4 year old's favourite pants (he is wearing them as I type)! They are really comfortable for him - he is normally a tracky pants kinda boy - doesn't like jeans as they are too stiff. The camoflauge pants are just as comfortable as tracky pants, but nice enough to wear out!
His favourite part of the pants is his "Army mission pouch" (the bag). It is supposed to go at the back - but Hunter can't see it there - so he clips his onto the front! He loves collecting treasures so in the "Army Mission Pouch" they go!
I thought the sizing was on the small size. I bought Hunter (4 years old) size 120 - which is for 5-6 year olds, thinking he would get this year and next year out if it, however he would have out-grown them in the legs by next year.
They are currently on sale for $21.60 - at that price I'm thinking of getting another pair for Hunter in the next size up! Check out the Camouflage pants.
Friday, July 22, 2011
Cupcake decorating
By Bec
So you have seen us making cakes, now its time to see our cupcake decorating! We had some friends around and decided to make a sweet mess! I made up 6 different colours of icing and we got lots of lollies and made lots of exciting cupcakes! I'm going to leave you with a series of pictures to see how much fun it was!
Just a note - if you don't like mess - then this activity is NOT for you!!
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So you have seen us making cakes, now its time to see our cupcake decorating! We had some friends around and decided to make a sweet mess! I made up 6 different colours of icing and we got lots of lollies and made lots of exciting cupcakes! I'm going to leave you with a series of pictures to see how much fun it was!
Just a note - if you don't like mess - then this activity is NOT for you!!
Thursday, July 21, 2011
Come visit our stall at Mathilda’s Market on 27th August at Sydney
Come visit our stall at Mathilda’s Market at the The Entertainment Quarter, Bryon Kennedy Hall, 122 Lang Rd, Moore Park on Saturday 27th August, from 9am to 1pm. Believe us, you’re in for a treat! Mathilda’s Market is one of Sydney’s finest shopping destinations for the little ones. With plenty of stalls, yummy food and kids’ entertainment, everyone is sure to have a delightful day. Entry is free. Want to see some of the divine creations you’ll find at Mathilda’s Market? Just click on www.mathildasmarket.com.au, or read their blog at www.mathildasmarket.blogspot.com. And if it’s a little too far for you to go, don’t despair - Mathilda’s Markets are held regularly in seven cities around Australia.
Saturday, July 16, 2011
Product Review: bObles Chicken
by Victoria
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I was excited when I saw the product that I was going to review: the bObles Chicken, one of a range of bObles tumbling animals. As I have not heard of this product before, I did a google and youtube search on it. The following was the description of the range of bObles tumbling animals that I found on their website.
The bObles Tumbling Animals is based on simple geometrical forms - cut in the shape of animals. They are suitable as children´s furniture, but are designed for creative play. The child is able to tumble, roll, balance, seesaw, rock, jump and gain some bodily experience, which can serve as the foundation for further development.
The Tumbling animals are produced in firm foam with a soft surface, very easy to clean under the shower. They are tested especially for children and is free of any toxin or phthalates.
I was intrigued when I saw the product. It was a unique product as its use and function was not immediately apparent. This allowed Miss P to use it in many different ways as her imagination led her. When she first saw it, she studied it and was curious as it was not like any toy she had seen. When I flipped it on one side so she could sit and rock from side to side, she loved it. The following is a short video of her using it to rock from side to side.
The video is a very short one as Miss P is at that age where she doesn't sit still for too long before wanting to see the image I am looking at on my camera.
When I did a search on youtube, I found many other parents enjoying their bObles animals. One parent used it as an aid for the child's tummy time. The bObles chicken gave the baby on tummy time abit more of a height so they had more to see. Tummy time was thus more fun.
As a parent, I love the bObles chicken for its shape, colours, and material. The foam used to make the bObles chicken was indeed firm but lightweight. It was light enough for my 21 month old to carry it around. I like that it came in a nice carry case so if I wanted to take it with me on a playdate, I could easily and conveniently bring it along with me.
Most of all, due to the cold weather and the rain we’ve experienced, I found the bObles chicken a wonderful tool to use indoors. I was able to still keep Miss P entertained and replicate some of the fun we have outdoors, in the house. There are just so many possibilities and uses for it. I can imagine using it as a launch pad for her matchbox cars or as a balancing 'beam' for Miss P. After playing with the bObles chicken and loving it, I went to the Little Yoyo Styles website and bought a bObles 6-layer fish for Miss P. I'll blog about our play with the bObles fish in one of my future posts.
For more details or to buy a bObles animal, please have a look at the range here.
I was excited when I saw the product that I was going to review: the bObles Chicken, one of a range of bObles tumbling animals. As I have not heard of this product before, I did a google and youtube search on it. The following was the description of the range of bObles tumbling animals that I found on their website.
The bObles Tumbling Animals is based on simple geometrical forms - cut in the shape of animals. They are suitable as children´s furniture, but are designed for creative play. The child is able to tumble, roll, balance, seesaw, rock, jump and gain some bodily experience, which can serve as the foundation for further development.
The Tumbling animals are produced in firm foam with a soft surface, very easy to clean under the shower. They are tested especially for children and is free of any toxin or phthalates.
I was intrigued when I saw the product. It was a unique product as its use and function was not immediately apparent. This allowed Miss P to use it in many different ways as her imagination led her. When she first saw it, she studied it and was curious as it was not like any toy she had seen. When I flipped it on one side so she could sit and rock from side to side, she loved it. The following is a short video of her using it to rock from side to side.
The video is a very short one as Miss P is at that age where she doesn't sit still for too long before wanting to see the image I am looking at on my camera.
When I did a search on youtube, I found many other parents enjoying their bObles animals. One parent used it as an aid for the child's tummy time. The bObles chicken gave the baby on tummy time abit more of a height so they had more to see. Tummy time was thus more fun.
As a parent, I love the bObles chicken for its shape, colours, and material. The foam used to make the bObles chicken was indeed firm but lightweight. It was light enough for my 21 month old to carry it around. I like that it came in a nice carry case so if I wanted to take it with me on a playdate, I could easily and conveniently bring it along with me.
Most of all, due to the cold weather and the rain we’ve experienced, I found the bObles chicken a wonderful tool to use indoors. I was able to still keep Miss P entertained and replicate some of the fun we have outdoors, in the house. There are just so many possibilities and uses for it. I can imagine using it as a launch pad for her matchbox cars or as a balancing 'beam' for Miss P. After playing with the bObles chicken and loving it, I went to the Little Yoyo Styles website and bought a bObles 6-layer fish for Miss P. I'll blog about our play with the bObles fish in one of my future posts.
For more details or to buy a bObles animal, please have a look at the range here.
Friday, July 15, 2011
What was I thinking?
By Bec,
Have you ever had a "What was I thinking moment?"
This was mine!!
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In hindsight it was a truly - what was I thinking, I'm the worst Mum in the world!
It was a treadmill accident. We had just got the treadmill and Hunter decided it would be fun to have a go. That's my first "what was I thinking?" Why would I think it's okay for a 4 year old to go on a treadmill?
Next - I left the room as I was tidying up - again "what was I thinking?" Why on earth would I leave a 4 year old unsupervised on a treadmill?
I heard the screams and I don't think I've run as quickly in my life. He had put it onto 4 - 4km her hour is too fast for a 4 year old on a treadmill. He couldn't keep up, slipped to the back of the treadmill and got caught on the rubber, between the treadmill and the wall. He got burns all over his leg, back and arms.
I said at one stage after the accident, treadmills aren't for kids. Which led to - well why did you let me go on it Mummy? (In that sad voice) - again, "what was I thinking?"
He had daily visits to the nurse for a week and a half to re-dress his burns. And then daily vitamin E cream! He is fine now, but boy do I feel like a bad Mummy!
Have you ever had a "what was I thinking?" moment?
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Have you ever had a "What was I thinking moment?"
This was mine!!
It was a treadmill accident. We had just got the treadmill and Hunter decided it would be fun to have a go. That's my first "what was I thinking?" Why would I think it's okay for a 4 year old to go on a treadmill?
Next - I left the room as I was tidying up - again "what was I thinking?" Why on earth would I leave a 4 year old unsupervised on a treadmill?
I heard the screams and I don't think I've run as quickly in my life. He had put it onto 4 - 4km her hour is too fast for a 4 year old on a treadmill. He couldn't keep up, slipped to the back of the treadmill and got caught on the rubber, between the treadmill and the wall. He got burns all over his leg, back and arms.
I said at one stage after the accident, treadmills aren't for kids. Which led to - well why did you let me go on it Mummy? (In that sad voice) - again, "what was I thinking?"
He had daily visits to the nurse for a week and a half to re-dress his burns. And then daily vitamin E cream! He is fine now, but boy do I feel like a bad Mummy!
Have you ever had a "what was I thinking?" moment?
Monday, July 11, 2011
Extra curricular activities
By Bec
It’s a commonly asked question – how many planned/extra curricular activities should our kids do? These days there are so many choices for our kids, music, sport, craft, languages. And once you can decide on a type, there are then so many choices and companies within – piano, guitar, singing, dancing, karate, AFL, kindergym, soccer, swimming, French and the list goes on.
We all want the best for our children, and often feel they get the most out of life by having more experiences. I think sometimes we can go too far. Kids need to be kids, and they learn just as much by being with us (their parents), playing and exploring.
I realised one Friday morning, when I was trying to rush my children to get ready so we could go out for yet another planned activity (can’t remember what this actual activity was), that the kids just want some time to chill and play with their toys. My son was being un-cooperative and was just playing with his toys. My kids are in childcare/kindy 4 days per week, so doesn’t leave much time for just chilling!! I’ve avoided after childcare/kindy activities so far, but I’m sure there will be a few more sneak in when my son starts school.
My children now have 1 extra curricular activity each. I feel it’s important they do something they really enjoy, so we stopped swimming. My son wasn’t enjoying it. My son currently participates in Get Active Sports and my daughter does Bebe Ballet.
Get Active Sports is fantastic as it’s a 6 week program – plenty long enough for my son – and they do a different sport each term. 6 weeks is long enough to work out if you like a sport, but not too long that if you don’t like it you are doing it forever. This year he has done tennis (not his thing), AFL (he enjoyed this) and next term starts soccer. He gets a free racquet/ball at the first class of each term.
I started my daughter in ballet as a replacement activity for KinderGym. She was really enjoying KinderGym, but my work schedules meant I wasn’t available on KinderGym days. Bebe Ballet was one which took girls as young as 18 months. We started when she was around 21 months in term 1 this year. The progression she has made in these 2 terms is amazing. I was ready to take her out after the first term as she didn’t pay much attention – I’m glad I didn’t, as now, just a term later she is doing great. She loves walking on her tippy toes (they are practicing tight rope walking for the concert) and practices at home.
How many extra curricular activities do your children do a week and what are they?
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| Savannah practising her ballet! |
We all want the best for our children, and often feel they get the most out of life by having more experiences. I think sometimes we can go too far. Kids need to be kids, and they learn just as much by being with us (their parents), playing and exploring.
I realised one Friday morning, when I was trying to rush my children to get ready so we could go out for yet another planned activity (can’t remember what this actual activity was), that the kids just want some time to chill and play with their toys. My son was being un-cooperative and was just playing with his toys. My kids are in childcare/kindy 4 days per week, so doesn’t leave much time for just chilling!! I’ve avoided after childcare/kindy activities so far, but I’m sure there will be a few more sneak in when my son starts school.
My children now have 1 extra curricular activity each. I feel it’s important they do something they really enjoy, so we stopped swimming. My son wasn’t enjoying it. My son currently participates in Get Active Sports and my daughter does Bebe Ballet.
Get Active Sports is fantastic as it’s a 6 week program – plenty long enough for my son – and they do a different sport each term. 6 weeks is long enough to work out if you like a sport, but not too long that if you don’t like it you are doing it forever. This year he has done tennis (not his thing), AFL (he enjoyed this) and next term starts soccer. He gets a free racquet/ball at the first class of each term.
I started my daughter in ballet as a replacement activity for KinderGym. She was really enjoying KinderGym, but my work schedules meant I wasn’t available on KinderGym days. Bebe Ballet was one which took girls as young as 18 months. We started when she was around 21 months in term 1 this year. The progression she has made in these 2 terms is amazing. I was ready to take her out after the first term as she didn’t pay much attention – I’m glad I didn’t, as now, just a term later she is doing great. She loves walking on her tippy toes (they are practicing tight rope walking for the concert) and practices at home.
How many extra curricular activities do your children do a week and what are they?
Saturday, July 2, 2011
Toys and Giveaway!!
By Bec
You may be aware the big mid-year toy sales started Thursday at Kmart and Big W, and the Target one is a month or so away. It's a frenzy.....I've been reading on parenting forums the extent some people go to to stock up on toys (shopping at midnight, going the day before to stalk where the toys they want will be, going in pairs so one can shop whilst one waits in the layby line). It seems crazy! And personally layby is not my thing....you have to then go back into the store fortnightly to pay it off - too hard!!
So I think it's a great time to do some online toy shopping through Little Yoyo Styles! I decided to see what would be on my toy wish list and have found the following:
For my 4 year old son
Kidkraft fun explorers pirate play set
Zoobie pets lencho the lion
Aromaplay
Robot measuring tape
For my 2 year old daughter
Mother garden wild strawberry flower kitchen
Mother garden wild strawberry lunch sandwich
Pinwheels and pearls ribbon wands
Sunglasses
All stylish girls need a pair of cute sunglasses!!
I could add plenty more to my wish list, there are real gems to be found on the site if you have a little search!!
Now the exciting part - Little Yoyo Styles is giving away a $50 voucher for one lucky reader to spend on toys. All you have to do is tell me what is your favourite toy from the Little Yoyo Styles store in the comments section below. Make sure you include your contact details so we can contact you if you are a winner.
Competition is open until midnight AEST 16th July. I will draw a winner using random org.
Thursday, June 30, 2011
Friday, June 24, 2011
Amazing Drumming Monkeys
By Bec
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Check out their website to see some of their songs and to see where they will be performing. If they aren't going to be near you anytime soon, you can always purchase a DVD!!
Amazing Drumming Monkeys
Here is us doing the Monky dance!!
We have had the pleasure of checking out the Amazing Drumming Monkeys on numerous occassions - we have even travelled to country South Australia to see them. Most recently we saw them last weekend when they had a performance in the Adelaide mall. My kids absolutely loved them! They are drumming puppet monkeys - Congo and Bongo and provide messages of sustainability in a fun, entertaining way! They get you up and dancing and just having fun!
Their songs are so catchy, even I enjoy listening to them. At the end of the show my 4 year old asked for a DVD, so we ended up buying the DVD and CD. It's a CD I enjoy listening to in the car!
Check out their website to see some of their songs and to see where they will be performing. If they aren't going to be near you anytime soon, you can always purchase a DVD!!
Amazing Drumming Monkeys
Here is us doing the Monky dance!!
Friday, June 17, 2011
Death and children
By Bec
My wonderful Grandma (Mama as we called her) passed away during the week. She had cancer. It was very quick, she was only diagnosed late February this year. I visited her last Friday to say my goodbyes, but we didn't let my kids come as we didn't want their last memories of her like that. She was bed bound, jaundiced and was struggling to even talk.
I haven't even told the kids yet. When I got off the phone and burst into tears Hunter asked what was wrong and I just said I didn't feel very well. Of course I'm going to tell them, I just don't know when or how.
Our dilemma now is do we take the kids to the funeral or not? Hunter is 4.5 and Savannah 2. Savannah is too young to understand, but Hunter knows a bit about these things. I feel bad for him as we didn't let him see her the last time she was in hospital as he was sick, and we didn't want him passing bugs on (we don't get to see her that often as she lives in the country). But I'm not sure a funeral is an appropriate place for a 4 and 2 year old. What are your thoughts?
Rest in peace beautiful lady. You are now pain free and can rest. You will be greatly missed.
My wonderful Grandma (Mama as we called her) passed away during the week. She had cancer. It was very quick, she was only diagnosed late February this year. I visited her last Friday to say my goodbyes, but we didn't let my kids come as we didn't want their last memories of her like that. She was bed bound, jaundiced and was struggling to even talk.
I haven't even told the kids yet. When I got off the phone and burst into tears Hunter asked what was wrong and I just said I didn't feel very well. Of course I'm going to tell them, I just don't know when or how.
Our dilemma now is do we take the kids to the funeral or not? Hunter is 4.5 and Savannah 2. Savannah is too young to understand, but Hunter knows a bit about these things. I feel bad for him as we didn't let him see her the last time she was in hospital as he was sick, and we didn't want him passing bugs on (we don't get to see her that often as she lives in the country). But I'm not sure a funeral is an appropriate place for a 4 and 2 year old. What are your thoughts?
Rest in peace beautiful lady. You are now pain free and can rest. You will be greatly missed.
Wednesday, June 15, 2011
Incy Interiors GIVEAWAY
incy interiors specialises in beautiful designer furniture for babies and children.
founder, kristy withers decided to create incy after a long and exhausting search to find her son oscar ‘s first 'big boy bed'. an extensive search throughout australia and internationally left kristy frustrated and little oscar stuck in his cot.
kristy recognised an opportunity to bring quality designer furniture to Australia and with the help of a team of very talented people, incy was born!
incy interiors commits to providing australians with well designed, high quality and stylish children's and baby furniture that is not only beautiful, but also functional and affordable.
as a mum herself, kristy understands the importance of safety. all incy products meet australian and new zealand standards.
Little yoyo Styles is thrilled to be a part of the incy interiors stockist and we can introduce to you some of incy interiors very unique designer Baby and Children 's Furniture.
this children's sized cosy arm chair makes for the perfect spot to snuggle, read a book or simply relax. it is super light and comes with a little handle so it can easily be carried from room to room.
made from recycled foam and covered in removable canvas slipcover, it will withstand wear and tear and be easily cleaned.
- dimensions: 65cmW x 55cmD x57cmH
available from 30th june and available in blue check / pink with spots / red or Green
add some wall candy to your child's room with these gorgeous lollypop prints.
these sweet prints comes in yellow, red and green. buy the set for a colourful and fun wall display.
screen printed on cotton canvas and framed in a cream moulded frame.
- dimensions: 35cm x 50cm
create a sense of yesteryear with these retro canvas prints. available in 4 different styles - bus, truck, aeroplane and train.
create a feature wall with the full set of four.
screen printed on cotton canvas and framed in a coffee rounded frame.
- dimensions: 30cm x 20cm
a replica children's egg chair by arne jacobsen. the egg chair was first designed in 1958 for the lobby and reception areas at the royal hotel in copenhagen. it is a true classic and has timeless appeal.
featuring a strong fibreglass inner shell, comfy padding and covered in either high quality wool/cashmere blend fabric or 100% aniline leather.
4 point swivel base in polished stainless steel.
- dimensions: 54cmW x 54cmD x 65cmH
Available in White / navy / red / pink or leather brown
You can easily mix and match with incy interior' cot, bed, chairs and their wall arts into your child's nursery.
We are so excited to have a chance to help Incy-Interiors run this Giveaway! For your chance to win a choice from the lollipop prints (for girls room) or the car prints (boys room). Please visit www.incyinteriors.com.au and answer the following question: Which item(s) of Incy-Interiors is your favourite?
- Any purchase of Incy-Interiors from http://littleyoyostyles.com.au/incy-interiors-m-78.html
- Like Incy-Interiors on Facebook http://www.facebook.com/pages/Incy-Interiors/152321894799206
- Join the Incy-Interiors newsletter mailing list at http://www.incyinteriors.com.au/
- Follow Littleyoyostyles blogger with Google Friend Connect
- Write about this giveaway on your blog or Facebook page and leave the URL
Competition ends 30 June 2011. Australian entries Only.
Saturday, June 11, 2011
Nature vs Nurture
by Victoria
An ex-colleague of mine posted this article, Hey Parents, Leave Those Kids Alone, on his facebook page recently which intrigued me enough to read it. It picked up the debate over Amy Chua, nicknamed the Tiger mum, the Yale Professor who wrote about her strict parenting style in her book "Battle Hymn of the Tiger Mother". This article responded to the question of how much pressure we should apply on our children with "none".
The debate over nature (the talents and abilities you're born with) and nurture (the training and environment you grow up in) is a never-ending one. I like to think that neither the total 'hands-off' approach of totally kicking back and letting nature take its course, nor pushing your child until they, and you, are close to losing your minds, is the solution to giving a child the best opportunity in life. The best would be to balance nature and nurture but the trick is figuring out the right balance. And that is perhaps what makes parenting one fine art.
I suppose there is always a concern that some parents would look at their kids and say,"he or she is never going to be a doctor/ nurse/ carpenter/ hairdresser, so we should just all kick back", and at the other extreme, parents who always say "they can be better", and constantly criticising their children without celebrating their achievements.
In addition, we read of famous sports stars, like Tiger Woods, who has in the past credited his father for being tough with him which contributed to his success in golf. Therefore, the critical question is "do we push our kids in areas where they are talented or is it far better that they push themselves in something they enjoy even if they are not talented in that area?"
For me, I feel it's important that Miss P learns that to achieve something, hard work is a prerequisite. Yet within that lesson, I want her to know that she has free will too and not exasperate her by making all of life's choices for her. It's important that she learns the consequences of some of her choices. For example, if you sleep late, you'll wake up feeling awful and grumpy. So, it's better to sleep early and enjoy your day ahead. Whether she'll understand or choose to understand is quite another thing, but I can only try. That said, this parenting journey is a 2-way street. As much as Miss P learns from me, I'm sure I'll learn from her too.
I am not a Tiger Mum aspirant and have no desire to be one. While I like to think I take pride in my child's achievements, I do concur with a friend who said that she does not take credit for her child's good or bad behaviour. This is because while they were growing up, she emphasised the importance of being responsible and of owning up to what they had done. She felt that there is a tendency these days to lay the blame on someone else when something goes wrong in one's life and there is a failure to take responsibility for one's own actions.
To end this little post on nature vs nurture, I came across this little quote in my local gym which resonated with me, is relevant to this topic, and one that I'll like to share with you:
An ex-colleague of mine posted this article, Hey Parents, Leave Those Kids Alone, on his facebook page recently which intrigued me enough to read it. It picked up the debate over Amy Chua, nicknamed the Tiger mum, the Yale Professor who wrote about her strict parenting style in her book "Battle Hymn of the Tiger Mother". This article responded to the question of how much pressure we should apply on our children with "none".
The debate over nature (the talents and abilities you're born with) and nurture (the training and environment you grow up in) is a never-ending one. I like to think that neither the total 'hands-off' approach of totally kicking back and letting nature take its course, nor pushing your child until they, and you, are close to losing your minds, is the solution to giving a child the best opportunity in life. The best would be to balance nature and nurture but the trick is figuring out the right balance. And that is perhaps what makes parenting one fine art.
I suppose there is always a concern that some parents would look at their kids and say,"he or she is never going to be a doctor/ nurse/ carpenter/ hairdresser, so we should just all kick back", and at the other extreme, parents who always say "they can be better", and constantly criticising their children without celebrating their achievements.
In addition, we read of famous sports stars, like Tiger Woods, who has in the past credited his father for being tough with him which contributed to his success in golf. Therefore, the critical question is "do we push our kids in areas where they are talented or is it far better that they push themselves in something they enjoy even if they are not talented in that area?"
For me, I feel it's important that Miss P learns that to achieve something, hard work is a prerequisite. Yet within that lesson, I want her to know that she has free will too and not exasperate her by making all of life's choices for her. It's important that she learns the consequences of some of her choices. For example, if you sleep late, you'll wake up feeling awful and grumpy. So, it's better to sleep early and enjoy your day ahead. Whether she'll understand or choose to understand is quite another thing, but I can only try. That said, this parenting journey is a 2-way street. As much as Miss P learns from me, I'm sure I'll learn from her too.
I am not a Tiger Mum aspirant and have no desire to be one. While I like to think I take pride in my child's achievements, I do concur with a friend who said that she does not take credit for her child's good or bad behaviour. This is because while they were growing up, she emphasised the importance of being responsible and of owning up to what they had done. She felt that there is a tendency these days to lay the blame on someone else when something goes wrong in one's life and there is a failure to take responsibility for one's own actions.
To end this little post on nature vs nurture, I came across this little quote in my local gym which resonated with me, is relevant to this topic, and one that I'll like to share with you:
Success is best measured by how far you've come with the talents you have. ~ Anonymous
I'll love to hear about your parenting style or a style you aspire to, and how do you strike the right balance in parenting?
Friday, June 10, 2011
Cold weather
By Bec
I don't know about where you are living, but in Adelaide at the moment it's freezing, absolutely freezing. This is concerning given winter has only just started. I think we are in for a long, cold winter!!
So the cold, rainy weather always begs the question - what to do with the kids??? There is always ABC for kids (which I think is fantastic in limited amounts) but I know we all feel guilty letting our kids watch too much TV. Some of our favourite indoor, non-TV activities are:
Building an indoor cubby house
This is fun!! Grab some chairs and sheets and pop the sheets over the chairs. You can make a nice and cosy cubby house. We like to have morning or afternoon tea in our cubby houses!
Colouring in sheets
You can get some awesome colouring sheets on the internet these days, saves you having to buy a colouring in book, and you can print off different pages to suit you child's current mood. Cars one minute and fairies the next...no worries!
Kidspot have some great colouring pages here.
Playdough
We all love being creative with playdough. This is one kids of all ages can do. Both my 2 year old and 4 year old love playdough. Check out my aromaplay review here.
Of if you are feeling adventurous, you can make your own playdough.
Easy Peasy No Cook Play Dough from www.naturalparentingtips.com
•2 cups of plain flour
•4 tablespoons of ‘cream of tartar’
•2 tablespoons of cooking oil
•1 cup of salt
•2 cups of boiling water
•Food coloring
Put all in a bowl and mix.
If it doesn't come together straight away, keep on mixing. It will eventually get the right texture.
Check out the Little Big Book Club Activities
What an awesome page full of Book activities. The activities are in set out based on the books of the month, for each age group (0-2, 2-3 and 3-4 year olds). Our favourite so far has been to make Grug - but there is plenty to do. Search for your child's favourite book and see what you can make and do!
Create with lego
Here is where their imagination can run wild. Duplo for the younger ones and lego for the older children. A tip I have is play with lego on a queen sheet, when you have finished, pick up the sheet by the 4 corners and then you can tip it into the tub - easy clean up!
Dance
What child doesn't love music....just put their favourite tunes on and dance. You can even get housework done whilst dancing with your kids!!
I would love it if you could share your favourite indoor, non-TV activities!
I don't know about where you are living, but in Adelaide at the moment it's freezing, absolutely freezing. This is concerning given winter has only just started. I think we are in for a long, cold winter!!
So the cold, rainy weather always begs the question - what to do with the kids??? There is always ABC for kids (which I think is fantastic in limited amounts) but I know we all feel guilty letting our kids watch too much TV. Some of our favourite indoor, non-TV activities are:
Building an indoor cubby house
This is fun!! Grab some chairs and sheets and pop the sheets over the chairs. You can make a nice and cosy cubby house. We like to have morning or afternoon tea in our cubby houses!
Colouring in sheets
You can get some awesome colouring sheets on the internet these days, saves you having to buy a colouring in book, and you can print off different pages to suit you child's current mood. Cars one minute and fairies the next...no worries!
Kidspot have some great colouring pages here.
Playdough
We all love being creative with playdough. This is one kids of all ages can do. Both my 2 year old and 4 year old love playdough. Check out my aromaplay review here.
Of if you are feeling adventurous, you can make your own playdough.
Easy Peasy No Cook Play Dough from www.naturalparentingtips.com
•2 cups of plain flour
•4 tablespoons of ‘cream of tartar’
•2 tablespoons of cooking oil
•1 cup of salt
•2 cups of boiling water
•Food coloring
Put all in a bowl and mix.
If it doesn't come together straight away, keep on mixing. It will eventually get the right texture.
Check out the Little Big Book Club Activities
What an awesome page full of Book activities. The activities are in set out based on the books of the month, for each age group (0-2, 2-3 and 3-4 year olds). Our favourite so far has been to make Grug - but there is plenty to do. Search for your child's favourite book and see what you can make and do!
Create with lego
Here is where their imagination can run wild. Duplo for the younger ones and lego for the older children. A tip I have is play with lego on a queen sheet, when you have finished, pick up the sheet by the 4 corners and then you can tip it into the tub - easy clean up!
Dance
What child doesn't love music....just put their favourite tunes on and dance. You can even get housework done whilst dancing with your kids!!
I would love it if you could share your favourite indoor, non-TV activities!
Sunday, June 5, 2011
What's in a Name?
Our family welcomed a new golden retriever puppy on Monday. Miss P loves Jemima from Playschool best and she has a Jemima doll. But her next favourite character from Playschool is Meeka, and that's why Mr B decided to name our puppy Meeka.
That made me think about the reasons why we choose names for our children or pets. I love that there's a story behind my name. My mum told me that when she was in labour, she hadn't yet chosen a name for me. However, after she was in labour for a while, the nurses started to speak in hushed tones and were looking back at her then at each other. Every time she asked them what was wrong, they denied anything was wrong. When the doctor arrived, he told my mum that they couldn't detect my heartbeat and so presumed I had died. The doctor, thankfully, did not give up hope, and continued to hook my mum up to a machine and tried for a while to detect my heartbeat. When he found a weak heartbeat, he instructed my mum to start pushing and I was born. My mum said that was a victory and so named me Victoria.
There is also a reason why Mr B and I gave Miss P the middle name of Isla. As I was originally from Singapore, an island-nation like Australia, we thought that Isla, which means island, amongst other meanings, would remind Miss P of her Singaporean and Australian heritage.
Is there a story behind how your name was chosen or how you chose your children's or pet's names? I would love to hear them!
That made me think about the reasons why we choose names for our children or pets. I love that there's a story behind my name. My mum told me that when she was in labour, she hadn't yet chosen a name for me. However, after she was in labour for a while, the nurses started to speak in hushed tones and were looking back at her then at each other. Every time she asked them what was wrong, they denied anything was wrong. When the doctor arrived, he told my mum that they couldn't detect my heartbeat and so presumed I had died. The doctor, thankfully, did not give up hope, and continued to hook my mum up to a machine and tried for a while to detect my heartbeat. When he found a weak heartbeat, he instructed my mum to start pushing and I was born. My mum said that was a victory and so named me Victoria.
There is also a reason why Mr B and I gave Miss P the middle name of Isla. As I was originally from Singapore, an island-nation like Australia, we thought that Isla, which means island, amongst other meanings, would remind Miss P of her Singaporean and Australian heritage.
Is there a story behind how your name was chosen or how you chose your children's or pet's names? I would love to hear them!
Saturday, June 4, 2011
Contemplating Age + Getting Older
by Becky from beckyandjames.com
Tomorrow is my 28th birthday.
As a general rule, I don't mind this whole getting older business. At least I haven't until now; which might partially be because I have thought myself to be (and felt like I was) 23 from the day I turned twenty three to, well, today.
Tomorrow I will no longer be early-twenties or even my mid-twenties, I will be joining the ranks of LATE-twenties. To top that little gem off, I will be a mere two years out from 30. 3 - 0. That number, right there, seems quite daunting. Suddenly I am freaking out.
Almost thirty and I am not something. Almost thirty and still not sure what I want to be when I 'grow up' but it turns out I was growing up without realising. Almost 30. OMG.
With this in mind, I've decided to make 28 my best year yet. Starting this month, with the gift I've given myself of A Month, Just for Me.
Tell me, what would make your best year ever?
Tomorrow is my 28th birthday.
As a general rule, I don't mind this whole getting older business. At least I haven't until now; which might partially be because I have thought myself to be (and felt like I was) 23 from the day I turned twenty three to, well, today.
Tomorrow I will no longer be early-twenties or even my mid-twenties, I will be joining the ranks of LATE-twenties. To top that little gem off, I will be a mere two years out from 30. 3 - 0. That number, right there, seems quite daunting. Suddenly I am freaking out.
Almost thirty and I am not something. Almost thirty and still not sure what I want to be when I 'grow up' but it turns out I was growing up without realising. Almost 30. OMG.
With this in mind, I've decided to make 28 my best year yet. Starting this month, with the gift I've given myself of A Month, Just for Me.
Tell me, what would make your best year ever?
Friday, June 3, 2011
CARS Truck Tour 2011
By Bec
We got there just after 12 noon when they opened, and lined up to get in. Once we were in, there were different activities to do. First we lined up to drive the slot cars. Savannah decided not to do this, but Hunter had fun.
Next they had a 3 minute ride on the go karts. These were great, they had stop signs, give-way signs, red/green lights and roads to follow. The kids stopped at the appropriate times, so gave them an idea of road rules. The little legs found it hard to reach the pedals so needed a parent to push. Savannah made it difficult as she was steering all over the place (but of course wouldn't let Mummy help steer). Hunter could reach the pedals so he was good on his own.
With the movie Cars 2 due to be released soon my hubby and 4 year old are bursting out of their boots. They loved the first Cars movie (hubby more so than my son I think) and are both very excited to see the second one. With that in mind we were all very excited when we heard that MACK the Transporter was going on a Truck Tour.
We got there just after 12 noon when they opened, and lined up to get in. Once we were in, there were different activities to do. First we lined up to drive the slot cars. Savannah decided not to do this, but Hunter had fun.
 |
| Slot cars with Dad. |
 |
| Savannah - go kart |
 |
| Hunter - go kart |
And they got a photo with the piston cup!
 |
| The piston cup - brother, sister and cousin! |
There was also a colouring in tent - where there were lots of CARS related colouring sheets. Hunter did one in the tent and we took one of each home and Hunter spent the afternoon at home colouring. One of them involved making a piston cup, so involved colouring, cutting and sticking. Hunter really enjoyed this one at home. And for the older kids, you could line up to get on MACK and play a playstation game. All these activities were free of charge.
If you wanted to spend money, you could get your photo taken with a CARS theme background, and they had a merchandise stand with show bags and CARS plush toys. I was quite happy that we walked away without spending any money!!!
It was definitely worth a trip. We were there about an hour all up - but an enjoyable hour.
The truck tour is still happening in various places around Australia, so to find out more about the truck tour and to see if there is one near you click here.
Friday, May 27, 2011
When did you last go to the dentist?
By Bec
Following on from Becky's blog post When did you last get a skin check I'm going to ask, when did you last go to the dentist?
I think us Mums tend to put lots of things off for ourselves, as we are busy looking after our kids. We take our kids places for check-ups, dentist, immunisations, 2 year old health check, 4 year old health check and so on. But what about us Mums?
I had a regular annual visit to the dentist before my son was born. Each year I would get my letter, make my time and go. Easy, wouldn't think anything of it. I went when my son was 3 months old, and hadn't been back since. He is now 4.5 years old. Well that was a mistake!!
I went to the dentist just recently as I thought I had a hole at the front of one of my bottom teeth. The hygenist suggested I have x-rays done as I hadn't been for a while (read 4 years). Well, the tooth I thought had a hole, turned out to be a build up of plaque - easily fixed with the hygenist's clean. The x-rays however showed some frightening results. I had a tooth, pretty much eaten away. It was under an old filling (which had come a bit loose), so not noticed by just looking. And wasn't causing me much pain as the nerve has slowly been killed. They sent me off to have full x-rays, which confirmed what they thought.
The tooth has to go. The hole is so deep it's gone down to my bone...and the longer we leave it the more the tooth will decay, which means it may start breaking and be very hard to remove. So I now have an appoitment with a oral surgeon (at $100 just for the inital consult). So the dentist gave me some options to fill up the gap from removing a tooth - the one she recommended is a tooth implant - $4,500 she tells me. Yes you read right - $4,500 for 1 tooth....my jaw dropped. So I stressed, I don't want a hole in my mouth, but I can't afford $4,500 for a new tooth. I've given up stressing about it until my first appoitnment where I can talk options - but that's not until the end of May (these surgeons are so busy!!).
So my advice to all Mums, look after yourselves, and remember to brush twice a day and floss daily!! I wasn't a big flosser - so have just started doing it regularly. I'm a bit un-coordiated at it at the moment, but the dentist assures me it gets better with practice. So I'm practicing.
When was your last dentist appoitment? Don't put it off any longer? Make one now (and this goes for all things such as pap smears, eye check, any medical issue that may be niggling you)..
Following on from Becky's blog post When did you last get a skin check I'm going to ask, when did you last go to the dentist?
I think us Mums tend to put lots of things off for ourselves, as we are busy looking after our kids. We take our kids places for check-ups, dentist, immunisations, 2 year old health check, 4 year old health check and so on. But what about us Mums?
I had a regular annual visit to the dentist before my son was born. Each year I would get my letter, make my time and go. Easy, wouldn't think anything of it. I went when my son was 3 months old, and hadn't been back since. He is now 4.5 years old. Well that was a mistake!!
I went to the dentist just recently as I thought I had a hole at the front of one of my bottom teeth. The hygenist suggested I have x-rays done as I hadn't been for a while (read 4 years). Well, the tooth I thought had a hole, turned out to be a build up of plaque - easily fixed with the hygenist's clean. The x-rays however showed some frightening results. I had a tooth, pretty much eaten away. It was under an old filling (which had come a bit loose), so not noticed by just looking. And wasn't causing me much pain as the nerve has slowly been killed. They sent me off to have full x-rays, which confirmed what they thought.
The tooth has to go. The hole is so deep it's gone down to my bone...and the longer we leave it the more the tooth will decay, which means it may start breaking and be very hard to remove. So I now have an appoitment with a oral surgeon (at $100 just for the inital consult). So the dentist gave me some options to fill up the gap from removing a tooth - the one she recommended is a tooth implant - $4,500 she tells me. Yes you read right - $4,500 for 1 tooth....my jaw dropped. So I stressed, I don't want a hole in my mouth, but I can't afford $4,500 for a new tooth. I've given up stressing about it until my first appoitnment where I can talk options - but that's not until the end of May (these surgeons are so busy!!).
So my advice to all Mums, look after yourselves, and remember to brush twice a day and floss daily!! I wasn't a big flosser - so have just started doing it regularly. I'm a bit un-coordiated at it at the moment, but the dentist assures me it gets better with practice. So I'm practicing.
When was your last dentist appoitment? Don't put it off any longer? Make one now (and this goes for all things such as pap smears, eye check, any medical issue that may be niggling you)..
Thursday, May 26, 2011
I'm the new mummy blogger
by Victoria
Hi, I'm the new mummy blogger at Little YoYo Styles, Victoria B. I'm glad to be a part of Little Yoyo Styles mummy blogging team comprising Bec, Becky and Louisa.
Originally from Singapore, I was introduced to the beauty of Australia when I commenced and completed my university studies at Gippsland. It was at university that I met my then-boyfriend and now-husband, Mr B. After university, I returned to Singapore for 6 years to work (we did nurse a 6 year long-distance relationship) and then made the permanent move to rural Victoria in 2005. The change from city living to country living took abit of an adjustment initially. Although I wouldn't say I'm totally comfortable being a country girl, I think I'm getting closer everyday.
My university qualification is in journalism and communications and I'm currently studying for my planning one. I worked for 6 years in the arts industry in Singapore and loved it. When I made the move to Australia, I was fortunate to have a journalism job for almost 2 years before deciding on a career change in 2007 in statutory planning with the state government. I am presently working for a local council in strategic planning.
In 2009, our little gem, Miss P, was born. The past 19 months have been such a journey of discoveries, experiences, ups, downs and understanding how torturous sleep deprivation can be. However, we are now in a good place at the moment primarily because Phoebe has been sleeping really well for the past few weeks.
As we meander through motherhood and childhood, I hope to hear about your experiences even as I share mine.
Hi, I'm the new mummy blogger at Little YoYo Styles, Victoria B. I'm glad to be a part of Little Yoyo Styles mummy blogging team comprising Bec, Becky and Louisa.
Originally from Singapore, I was introduced to the beauty of Australia when I commenced and completed my university studies at Gippsland. It was at university that I met my then-boyfriend and now-husband, Mr B. After university, I returned to Singapore for 6 years to work (we did nurse a 6 year long-distance relationship) and then made the permanent move to rural Victoria in 2005. The change from city living to country living took abit of an adjustment initially. Although I wouldn't say I'm totally comfortable being a country girl, I think I'm getting closer everyday.
My university qualification is in journalism and communications and I'm currently studying for my planning one. I worked for 6 years in the arts industry in Singapore and loved it. When I made the move to Australia, I was fortunate to have a journalism job for almost 2 years before deciding on a career change in 2007 in statutory planning with the state government. I am presently working for a local council in strategic planning.
In 2009, our little gem, Miss P, was born. The past 19 months have been such a journey of discoveries, experiences, ups, downs and understanding how torturous sleep deprivation can be. However, we are now in a good place at the moment primarily because Phoebe has been sleeping really well for the past few weeks.
As we meander through motherhood and childhood, I hope to hear about your experiences even as I share mine.
Friday, May 20, 2011
Anpanman hooded beach towel - product review
By Bec
Not being Japanese, my kids don't know who Anpanman is. I read on the product tag that he is huge in Japan. So I spoke to my Japanese friend, who, when I paid closer attention I saw, had Anpanman products everywhere, and yep it's true! Anpanman is HUGE in Japan.
Despite not being Japanese, my kids loved this towel. My son loved how he could be his own super-hero. Hunter is 4.5 years old, so you can see the towel would be a good fit from toddlers right up to about 5. It fit my 2 year old, with more towel around the legs, and she loved how she was kept warm front and back. All the other hooded towels we have you still have to hold around you to keep your front warm. Not this one, it has towel at the front and back - quicker drying. Coming into winter that's important!
Stand out from the crowds with this towel. It would be a great towel for the beach or swimming lessons.
Check out the Anpanman hooded beach towel now, currently on sale for $20.05.
Now mind the quality of the video (and the mess of the house)...just showing how my son had fun playing with the towel!
He is not un-happy - we just have problems getting him to smile on camera (my camera isn't fast enough to catch it)!
Despite not being Japanese, my kids loved this towel. My son loved how he could be his own super-hero. Hunter is 4.5 years old, so you can see the towel would be a good fit from toddlers right up to about 5. It fit my 2 year old, with more towel around the legs, and she loved how she was kept warm front and back. All the other hooded towels we have you still have to hold around you to keep your front warm. Not this one, it has towel at the front and back - quicker drying. Coming into winter that's important!
Stand out from the crowds with this towel. It would be a great towel for the beach or swimming lessons.
Check out the Anpanman hooded beach towel now, currently on sale for $20.05.
Now mind the quality of the video (and the mess of the house)...just showing how my son had fun playing with the towel!
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Louisa is mum to two littles, Miss Bliss and Little Bear. She lives in Melbourne and is addicited to coffee, to-do lists and blogging, in no particular order. She loves being a Mum even if sometimes it feels a bit frantic. Louisa writes most days at 
Becky is a busy SAHM to three little Munchkins; Ellie, Kahlei and Jasper. She is about to embark on a new adventure and move her whole family into her mum's house while waiting for her house to sell. She is currently concentrating on doing her bit to remove the stigma surrounding Post Natal Depression and encourage mothers to take care of themselves to be the best they can be for their families on her blog 
Bec is Mum to Master Hunter (4 years old) and Miss Savannah ( 2 years old). She lives in Adelaide and juggles working 4 days a week in education research, volunteering for St Vincent de Paul, Kindy Governing Council, gym, kids sport and keeping the kids entertained and active. Life is busy but rewarding.
Victoria is mum to 19 month old Miss P and lives in rural Victoria. Having just returned to work as strategic planner in a local council, she is learning to juggle work, studies, and being a wife and mother, while finding some time for herself. When she can find the time, she enjoys watching movies, reading, and catching up with friends and family.
