In These Stilettos – Page 20 – From High Heels to High Chairs – A South African Parenting and Lifestyle Blog

Cloud Dough Sensory Tray

Posted on July 25, 2018 by Rebecca

Its been a while since I’ve posted a sensory craft and to be honest I’ve missed the time with my boys. They get so excited when mama pulls out the activity tray and want to help with everything.

At a recent Prima Toy Event on of my favourite toys that launched (stay tuned for a full list of my favourites), was the Treasure X box. A little box filled with adventure and you have to try and retrieve the “lost” bits and pieces by digging through the “soft brick” around it. It reminded me of the some of the sensory activities Id done with the boys around dino excavations and got me thinking it was time to do something new.

Cloud Dough is a perfect base for sensory trays. It’s both mouldable and crumbly at the same time. It has a silky soft consistency perfect for little hands. You can see my previous recipe here, but generally I take about 8 cups of flour to one cup oil (vegetable or baby), this time I added in a few drops of essential lavender oil to add in a calming scent. The mixture of flour and oil is mixed to the consistency of a wet beach sand. It’s the perfect exploratory material for toddlers to play with and is 100% taste safe! The boys are at a fun age where I can start making sensory trays a little more challenging. So with this one, inspired by Treasure X, I made it a pirate theme and hid bits of metallic treasure into the “sand”, they had to find the treasures with a magnetic wand. Add in a couple of scoops and forks and use little shells or containers to mould your shapes. To create a pirate theme i took “treasure” from around the house, glass pebbles and sparkly pom poms as “gems”, plastic beads, gold coins, old treasure chests and pirate figurines.

Most of the time was spent burying their own treasure chests in the sand, acting out with the pirates before creating sand castles and shapes with the easily mouldable cloud dough. After about 45 minutes of beach play we packed away our cloud dough into an airtight container to be played with another day. Cloud dough typically has quite a long shelf life if stored correctly.

Have fun with your little pirates and never be afraid to get a little messy xx

Recipe: Milo Crunchies

Posted on July 23, 2018July 23, 2018 by Rebecca

I promised some Milo inspired baking recipes this week and these Crunchies are proving to be a treat with the whole family. We recently got to experience a fantastic morning thanks to Nestle South Africa, where we learnt how to make our own MILO® Energy Cereal and its re-ignited my love for this malty drink. A Crunchie is the perfect sweet treat to enjoy with a hot drink, or as a snack in a lunch box, its also an ideal baking activity to do with kids with little hands to help you press into the tin.

This is a good old fashioned recipe, with sugar (maybe a little too much), butter, oats, coconut and flour, and of course my favourite Milo! You can pretty much add anything you like to the base of butter, flour, oats and egg.

Ingredients

1/2 Cup self raising flour

1/2 Cup cake flour

1/2 Cup grated chocolate – I used Milo Chocolate , you could also cut into chunks as opposed to grating

1/2 Cup Milo

2/3 Cup desiccated coconut

1/3 Cup brown sugar (original recipe had 2/3 cup but i found that too sweet)

125g melted butter

1 cup oats

Grease a baking tray and preheat oven to 180 degrees Celsius

Place all ingredients into a bowl and mix

Press into baking tray

Bake for 15-20 minutes (Crunchies will harden as they cool)

Allow to cool before slicing and serve with your favourite hot beverage

All credit to mommalikeme’s beautiful mama for this fabulous recipe. The perfect weekly bake in under 30 minutes from start to finish!

Make Your Own Milo Cereal

Posted on July 22, 2018 by Rebecca

Im a “Milo” Girl, I always have been and always will be. Growing up it was both my 4pm snack as well as my before bed drink and that’s never changed. Every night I still have a mug of Milo before bed and I’m passing on my love to my boys.

Since becoming a mother however I have become much more conscious of what I give to my boys and the amount of sugar in things. My youngest has the biggest sweet tooth and will happily consume anything with sugar in it. As consumers we often see “labels” like “reduced fat” or “less sugar”, but how much of that is actually real?

When Nestle South Africa launched the “Secret Moms Club” I was immediately intrigued. Anything to get more ideas on how to give my boys healthier options. Hosted by Dr Michael Mol, the event was aimed at helping moms understand exactly what ingredients go into the MILO® Energy Cereal and that the improved recipe contains ‘less sugar and more benefits’. We had no idea what we were making in the kitchen at the time, with Chef Sizwe shouting instructions on what to do and when. As soon as I saw liquid malt extract, I had a pretty good idea it may have something to do with my favourite chocolate drink. Nestle took us through making our very own Milo Cereal, which we only discovered at the end and once everything was out of the oven, so we could see first hand just how little sugar the new Milo Cereal has in it. There is nothing better then a brand that provides you with first hand experience on what they claim.

I’ll be sharing that recipe and a few more Milo inspired recipes this week. I LOVE the fact that I can make this with my boys so they can see how their morning cereals are made, plus rolling out the little balls is excellent for find motor skills!

Ingredients – this recipe yields approx 2-3 Servings

Dry Mix

5 tbsp Wholegrain wheat flour

1 tbsp Corn Semolina fine (Maizena)

2 tsp Baking Powder

1 tsp Cocoa powder

Wet Mix

3 tbsp Boiling water

2 tsp Cooking Oil

1 tsp Sugar

Milo Slurry for the Coating

1 tbsp Cocoa powder

1 tbsp Liquid malt extract

1 tbsp sugar

1 tsp Skim milk powder

1 tbsp Boiling water

1/2 tsp Vanilla extract

1/2 tsp Cooking Oil

Method

Cocoa Cereal Balls

1.Mix the flour and Corn Semolina in a mixing bowl and sift the cocoa and baking powder together into the bowl

2. For the Wet Mix, put oil and sugar in a medium bowl, add the boiling water and mix

3. Pour the wet mix into the dry mix and stir with a spoon until it comes together in a lump. Dont over mix but the mixture should not be sticky. If need be add a little more flour.

4. Divide the dough into 3 portions

5. Roll each portion into a rope shape and cut into small pieces. Roll each little piece into small balls and place on a baking tray

6. Bake in a preheated oven at 160 Degrees Celsius for about 15 minutes.

7. While the dough balls are baking, prepare your slurry.

Milo Coating Slurry

8. Put cocoa powder, sugar and milk powder in a small bowl and mix. Add vanilla essence, oil and boiling water. Mix well until no lumps.

9. Drizzle about a tbsp of the slurry over cooled bowls, mix vigorously until the cereal balls are well coated.

10. Transfer the coated cereal balls into a lined baking tray and dry in oven at 120 Degrees Celsius for 5 minutes or until dry.

11. Cool down before serving.

There you have it! Of course this isn’t the “exact” secret Nestle recipe, its been translated into relatable terms but we were all plesantly suprised at how simple it actually is. The new MILO® Energy Cereal is now in a crunchy round shape, and boasts only 1½ teaspoons of sugar per serving, a higher wholegrain fibre content due to the use of whole grains, more protein and Activ-Go, which is a unique blend of malt extract and micronutrients that play a vital role in energy release. Have a go at this recipe at home with the kids, whether you use your cereal as a dry snack or a morning meal, you will never look at your box of MILO® Energy Cereal in the same way again!

Winter Proof Your Car Battery ! {Win With Battery Centre}

Posted on July 20, 2018July 20, 2018 by Rebecca

As a mom, what are some of your fears? I deal with some of mine daily, being stranded on the side of the road with a puncture, or a flat battery is right up there on mine, particularly if my kids are in the car. I spend so much of my day in my car; dropping and fetching kids, getting stuck in traffic, driving to and from work – the thought of something happening to my car literally sends shivers down my spine. I’ve had two experiences this year alone with flat batteries (two different cars). Thankfully, I was at home and both times my local Battery Centre was able to come to me!

Car batteries are hardcore. They are designed for 5 years’ service and, apart from starting the vehicle, they power every electrical component, from the lights and radio to the air conditioning and mobile phone charger. That said, a car battery is generally out of sight, out of mind – until it dies without notice and leaves you stranded.

With all these freezing weather we have been having, did you know that your car’s battery is more prone to failing? When the terminals are connected, an electrical current is generated by chemical reactions in the battery. Low temperatures like this past week, slow down chemical reactions and can result in insufficient supply of electric current. One of the reasons your battery acts up in cold weather, and something I only found out recently.

There’s not much you can do about the weather, but there’s lots you can do to winter-proof your battery.

Here are 5 tips to keep it charged up all winter long.

Know where you stand

Depending on your driving habits, car batteries generally need replacing every three to five years. The battery specialists recommend getting your battery checked twice a year. Not only can you get a free battery check done at any Battery Centre, you can also get your starter and alternator checked for free. I popped into my local Fourways Centre and they did a free check and clean, in and out in under 20 minutes and I didn’t need to book before hand. Most of us only think of doing a “full check up” before a long journey, but chances are a failed battery can occur when you are closer to home.

Stay warm and keep moving

Park your car in a sheltered area such as a garage or car park. A fully charged battery minimises starting problems so go for regular drives to allow the battery to recharge itself. I recently looked after my parent’s car for a few months while they were away. My only instruction was to give the car a good run every week. It’s amazing how weeks fly by, because sure enough, just as I was about to go on a long journey with said car, I tried to start it and the battery had run flat. This was one of the examples where the kind folks at Battery Centre drove to me. Yet they didn’t just try to shove a new battery down my throat immediately, the honest technician said he should rather test it. He helped me jump it, we warmed up and car and tested it twice, before leaving.

Have patience

Don’t expect magic on the first turn. If your car won’t start after 2-3 seconds, give it a short rest before trying again. Make sure there is sufficient starting power for your engine by keeping all electronics, such as your radio, lights and air conditioning off until after you have started your car.

Clean up unwanted residue

My dad taught me this handy tip on the weekend. Increased electrical resistance causes your battery to work much harder. Clean off any build up or corrosion on your battery terminals with some water. Corrosion on terminals can lead to a poor connection and battery failure. Any additional grime or corrosion on your battery can lead to a poor connection and battery failure. You can also get your battery checked and cleaned for free at your nearest Battery Centre.

Be ever-ready

A few basic checks on our car can prevent us from living out our roadside nightmares.

Engine oil tends to thicken and flow slower in winter. Enhance the overall working condition of your car with an oil change. Check your battery twice a year. Check your tyre conditions (tread) and pressure on a regular basis. Always keep a set of jumper cables close by and get your battery checked regularly. With a little bit of attention, your battery and car will go the extra mile and get you where you need to go.

Giveaway

Here’s the good news to warm up your bones, Together with Battery Centre, I’ll be giving away a brand new Raylite car battery, which will be provided and fitted at Battery Centre. If you aren’t in need of a battery fear not, the voucher will be valid for 12 months! The winner will receive a complimentary Raylite Battery replaced and fitted to the value of R2500.00.

Steps

Be a subscriber to my blog.
In the comment section, tell me what the slogan of Battery Centre is.
Share this blog post and tell me across what platform you have shared it.
Giveaway ends on 26 July at Midnight.

For more information visit Battery Centre’s website or follow them on Facebook.

Imagination Play, The Magic of Dolls – Win with Shimmer and Shine

Posted on July 17, 2018July 20, 2018 by Rebecca

If you have been following my blog for a while you probably would have picked up that I’m a bit of a fan of “Imagination Play”. Good old acting, letting the boys immerse themselves and act out experiences they may have had or dreams they want to pursue. I read somewhere that imagination really develops in children between the ages of 2 and 4. To help deal with experiences and make sense of the world around them, they engage in imaginary play.

Its also no secret that my boys love the show “Shimmer and Shine”, and as a parent so do I. Shimmer and Shine has long been a favourite in our house, it tells a story about the magical adventures of genie sisters “Shimmer and Shine” and their best buddy Leah. “Newly qualified” twin sister genies, Shimmer and Shine, grant Leah 3 wishes to try to help solve her problems. Along the way they go through a number of challenges and often overcome the problem at hand, no thanks to the wishes. I love that it teaches the boys problem solving abilities and positivity. In addition, it teaches kids the value of friendship because Shimmer and Shine shows how friends can rely to each other when times get rough.

We love dolls. I have absolutely no qualms in giving the boys dolls to play with. I bought Yusuf his first “baby doll” when he was 2. He loves babies and playing with dolls helps to develop a sense of empathy and care. The boys were absolutely thrilled when they got sent a “Shimmer” Doll to review. The only conduit being there was one and they had to share. (These school holidays have tested my patience slightly when it comes to the sharing lesson – but thats another blog altogether).

Personally, I feel dolls are one of the best toys to encourage and foster “Imagination play”. Children can act out how they feel and create opportunities for trying out new ideas, ways of thinking and problem solving. The Shimmer doll was perfect and within minutes of unboxing Aadam was transported to “Zahramay falls”. Shimmer is the sister thats always looking to maximize the fun. Her pet monkey Tala is always mischievously by her side and I love that they have incorporated that into Shimmer’s hair comb. The doll comes dressed in a pretty purple satin genie outfit and along with the comb you also get special gem stickers. She’s the perfect size too, fitting into a little ones hand comfortably and being small enough to accompany us on our adventures. My youngest loves to play with hair and had delighted in brushing and playing with Shimmers’ long hair (anything to stop him messing up mine :)).

WIN A SHIMMER AND SHINE DOLL

Our little Shimmer Doll has been the perfect toy to spark curiosity and send them into a world of play. Together with Mattel South Africa, I’ll be giving away one “Shimmer and Shine” Doll which retails at R269.99.

To enter:

Make sure you are subscribed to the blog
Like and Follow “In these Stilettos” on Facebook , https://www.facebook.com/inthesestilettos/
Comment below on who your favourite Shimmer and Shine character is!

Its that easy!

The winner will be announced on the In these Stilettos Facebook page on Tuesday 24th July. The competition is open to all residents of South Africa. T’s & C’s apply.

A Gem In The Heart Of The Bustling City – J’S Revive Spa Review

Posted on July 10, 2018July 10, 2018 by Rebecca

There is nothing I enjoy more than a good spa day. Who doesn’t? But with so many “spas” and “salons” opening, it’s hard to differentiate the good over the truly superior. If I spend my time and money at a Spa, I want to walk out of there feeling like a whole new person, not just average.

That’s exactly what owner of J’S Revive, Leah Livanos, wanted to do. “I didn’t design and build this wellness spa for show, I put my heart and soul into creating a home-away-from home that people can enjoy and use when they need to escape life’s everyday stresses.”

In the middle of a bustling part of a city, it certainly is the least expectant place for one to think of putting a spa, but from the moment you walk through the doors it very clear that you have left the hustle and bustle of the city behind you. Natural elements are brought inside with walls covered in moss and pink Himalayan salt lamps on every corner. A short wait in the waiting area sees you being offered a gently infused water and a re energizing hot towel for your hands. Luxury and indulgence peak through in every element. Just the smell of this place left me feeling more relaxed.

The spa is spread out over 4 floors. Yes 4 FLOORS of luxury treatment, and Leah has really thought of it all. From bespoke manicure and pedicure lounges to Dead Sea flotation pools, Rasul chambers, steam rooms, indoor heated pools and a decompression lounge where clients relax for as they like in comfortable recliners after treatments. The Spa offers a gym on the 4^th floor and a hair salon in house. You’ll never have to leave a spa with greasy hair after a massage again. The manicure station has meticulous attention to detail. Enough so, that even if you were to just book a manicure or pedicure you would still benefit from a “spa experience” Rows upon rows of colour selection and a bespoke selection of Revive scrubs and lotions to choose from according to your needs. Having a Mani and Pedi alone is a huge treat. Whilst on the subject of attention to detail, each treatment room offers colour treatment therapy, with the lights adjusting to enhance your mood.

The wellness spa offers the latest fitness and fat loss technology including the innovative Body Tech system, which works by stimulating the deeper lying muscles in the body with gentle electrical impulses. Just one session is equivalent to five sessions in the gym. PERFECT. Clients also have the choice of signing up to the exclusive functional training gym, a first-class facility offering private personal training sessions as well as boxing classes for all ages including kids.

The sheer size of JS Revive makes it the perfect place to host a party and they are in the midst of opening a JD Revive Kids section as well.

Special Offer:

Up until the end of July, to help you combat these cold winter days, JS Revive is offering clients a phenomenal winter warmer package.

You can experience a Soy Candle Massage, a float, sip on some herbal infused tea in the decompression lounge and get a blow wave all at an incredible price of R1000!

Details:

Revive Day Spa
41 Randjeslaagte Rd
Highlands North
2192

011 887 2123, 011 887 1862

0873532500

Info@js-revive.co.za

Visit:

Facebook: Revive Wellness Spa

Call: 011 485 0122

Follow them on Instagram: Revive_Wellness

Website: http://www.revivewellnessspasa.co.za/

Disclaimer: I was provided treatments at JS Revive, but I have gone back a number of times on my own account as well. These are my views and I have honestly been utterly impressed by the quality of treatments and friendliness of the staff.

Golf Themed Party For Our TEE-RIFFIC Three Year Old

Posted on July 9, 2018July 24, 2018 by Rebecca

Mommalike me and I have made no secret of our love for party planning. It runs through my veins, my mother ran a successful events and hiring company for most of my childhood years and my weekends were spent draping tents, laying tables or setting out flowers for Presidential functions, visits from Royalty or weddings. My mum had no shame in advocating child labour, we had no choice 🙂 , we all got involved as a family and I loved every minute.

Our little Yusuf is a golf fanatic. He has been since he could walk. Hes been swinging clubs since he was just over 1 and shows no signs of slowing down anytime soon. He sleeps with golf balls in his hand; if he gets upset at playschool all they need to do is whip out the clubs. A golf themed party was the natural choice and there was no better venue than Killarney Country Club. It offered it all; from the rolling greens around us, to the putt putt and play area for the kids, I knew from the second I laid eyes on it that this was our venue. From the start the staff at KCC were more than accommodating. I could bring in my own halaal food, the kids could play golf and the children that were too young for golf could play in the soft play area or on the jungle gym. I made my life that much easier and ordered two canapes off their menu to take a bit of stress off my shoulders as well.

I had the absolute privilege of working with Ruth du Toit from Ruth du Toit Photography for the party. This was the first time I’ve worked with a professional photographer for any of the kids parties and what an absolute treat! Yusuf’s party was not only a very special 3rd birthday, but it was also a family reunion of sorts. With my family scattered across the globe there hasn’t been one birthday party that my boys have had grandparents as well as all of his aunts and uncles at. My sister and her family were out from the UK, my brother and parents from Botswana and my cousins from Durban were also up. It was very special to have Ruth to capture all of the photos and took a huge stress off my shoulders. Her impeccable eye for detail captured every moment.

I often get ideas in my head and it frustrates me when I know what I want but I cant find what I’m looking for in the shops. Enter Deborah from Studio Hooray. Not only does Deb have one of the most stylishly curated instagram feeds I’ve ever come across, she is also a talented blogger and and hand makes children’s decor and accessories. Deb created my beautiful banner for me which was the focal point of my astroturf backdrop.

Whats a party without treats? Allyson from Sprinkles Bakery worked her magic yet again. Leaving everyone with jaws wide open at her works of art. I really have no idea how she does it, but a good sugar cookie can help set the tone of a great party. My friend Liezl from Sugar Paper Parties outshone herself once again with her incredible creations. Chocolate covered Oreo’s (yes those mini golf delicacies are OREO’S people), Golf cake pops and the most incredible two tiered argyle inspired golf cake featured as the centre piece for the table. Nothing is ever too much for her and her dedication to detail is the best I have seen. Go and check out their instagram pages for some SERIOUSLY sugared inspiration.

Party Favours – I try my hardest to steer away from sweet filled party packs. Though I always have a few empty sweet bags to fill at our parties (mainly for mum and dad), I try the kiddos non sweet favours. I got some plastic golf clubs and balls from China Mall and made them our favours.

Decor – The rest of the goodies were all bought at my go to party shop, The Party Spot, I got everything from the honey comb “golf balls”, balloons, ribbons, to the wheat-grass used in the buckets.

I had an absolute “Ball” designing this party for my very special little boy. I hope you find inspiration here if you are planning one in your household. Its such a great theme for Birthday Parties, Baby Showers and Fathers Day Celebrations.

There are a few people I must thank for making my vision a reality. To my hubby Ahmed, as much as you complain, you put up with my crazy ideas ( just 🙂 ), your support and opinion is so valuable to me. To my shoulder, my crutch, my bestie Meg, THANK YOU for being my voice of reason, my printer, my jelly maker, my left leg. For always being there through it all. I am so grateful to have you and I’m so excited for the future ahead. To my Mum and Dad WOW ! THANK YOU!!!! Dad, my crazy AstroTurf backdrop would not have been possible without you and your make a plan attitude. Nothing is too much! Jaysheela Kanjee (you’ll remember her for her fantastic cake pops from the Mermaid party), thank you for always being so caring and giving. The AstroTurf runner was a lifesaver! Sam – Words cant say thank you enough for your selflessness – the jumping castle was a lifesaver! Ruth, for capturing not only these priceless moments but so many more, I am so eternally grateful and I cant wait to see what else we do together! Deb, for taking my design and creating exactly what I imagined, thank you! Yanky and Natasha from Killarney Country Club, thank you for helping to make my dream a reality – we cant wait to see the other magical creations at the most perfect venue.

List of suppliers:

Venue: Killarney Country Club

Photography: Ruth Du Toit Photography

Sugar Cookies: Sprinkles Bakery

Cake, Cake Pops, Chocolate dipped Oreos: Sugar Paper Parties

Decor: Party Spot

Personalised Birthday Banner: Studio Hooray

Jumping Castle: Lopes Bouncy House: sam@pinkdustevents.co.za

10 “At Home” Activities For Kids To Do During The Holidays

Posted on June 27, 2018June 26, 2018 by Rebecca

Previously holiday breaks during the school term were never a big thing, because I worked from home and had my mornings free, it meant that I was on hand to entertain the kids. We would adventure, we would play, we would explore. Fast-forward a few years and now I’m not at home, I’m in an office, (like 80% of South African mothers), and my “mom guilt” is going into overdrive that my kids are sitting watching TV all day. I now fully understand “holiday clubs” at school.

So, I’ve been thinking…. thinking of activities to set up for the boys that they can play with limited supervision. I’m lucky enough to have a fantastic nanny to take care of them so they can enjoy a bit of a break from school, but, she has other work to do and is not on hand every single second to supervise activities. Enter good old “google”, and I am shocked. Almost all the “holiday activities” designed for children require mom to be around or set up… Scrap that plan. So, I do what I do best and get to thinking of crafts to keep them busy. That’s why I enjoy crafts so much, they stimulate kids but they also don’t require much supervision. So, they can get on with sticking, creating and crafting and everyone else can get on with their work too.

So here is my top 10 list of crafts (Ok there are 11 but I couldnt choose) to keep your kids entertained these school holidays. These do require some forward-thinking mums and dads. Setting up the night before and putting the crafts out, it shouldn’t take longer than 10 minutes and are ideally suited to children up to the age of about 7.

Paint and Play Day

Set up some paint and a variety of materials for the kids to paint on and play with. Sponges, brushes, flowers and stamps make great tools for the kids to explore with and play with different texture canvases such as foil, cardboard and bubble wrap. Make sure you place a suitable ground cover down to stop the paint from getting all over your floors.

Create a Collage

Cut up a big piece of cardboard from a leftover box to use as a nice big canvas for little hands. Gather up a variety of items, ribbons, stickers, magazine cut outs, paper doilies, muffin cases, pomp oms, anything your heart desires. Better still I normally do a craft cupboard stock up at CNA before the holidays start. You could get creative and chose specific colours. Kids love nothing more than gluing and sticking. Trust me, it’s a winner every time! Lay out all the materials on a tray for them with the glue and canvas and let them stick to their hearts content.

Create a Scavenger Hunt around the house

Hide a few objects around the house (choose distinctive things or specific pictures). Draw up a list of all the things hidden and tell the kids to go on a treasure hunt! Once they tick everything off their list tell your caregiver he/she can give them a small treat.

Clay Play

Get some good old fashioned air dry clay OR modelling clay. I prefer air dry clay as I can keep their creations forever. You can find this at any stationery store like CNA or your plastic-land/ Westpack stores. Make up a bowl yourself the night before, I often find if I am not there it is easier for my kids to see what to do when they have an example to follow. Ask your caregiver (if you aren’t home) to place down a floor protector and give each child a nice fist sized amount of clay. Let them create to their hearts content and let the final product dry in the sun. Once dry (probably by the time you are home), let them paint it.

Movie Day

I’m pretty sure this is one we have all done before. Surprise them by renting their favourite movie, or download it on Netflix. Layout some blankets and pillows (or a tent if you have one) in the lounge and pre- make some popcorn before you go to work. Let them stay in their PJ’s for the morning and watch their favourite Netflix while snuggling up with some popcorn and hot chocolate.

Create a mini activity centre

This could be done in or outside the house dependent on your situation. Create a “bean bag” toss – put a strip of tape down as the standing line and some “Hoola-Hoops”. The aim is to try and get the bag into the target area. Bowling – If you done have tenpin pins at home grab some paper cups and stack them together in a triangle shape. Using a ball or a bean bag, let your child try to knock down the cups. Golf putting – Simply take a plastic cup to use as your “hole”, the kids must try and put their ball into the cup to sink it. The possibilities are endless here.

Have a baking day

Yes, this is possible, even If you aren’t home. If your caregiver knows how to cook buy some pre- mixes from snowflake or Pillsbury. Easy ones like muffins or brownies. Lay out the ingredients the night before and the kids can mix away and then whoever is home can pop it into the oven. OR if you aren’t comfortable with the “baking” aspect they could ice some Marie Biscuits (Just make up the icing the evening before), or make some Jelly.

Montessori inspired Activities

Have a look at my blog post on my favourite Montessori activities for toddlers around the house. Most of these are independent and allow for easy clean up. Another great “keep busy” one is a good old peg board! Developing those fine motor skills while keeping them focused.

Sidewalk chalk

Buy a pack of good old sidewalk chalk from your local stationery store or plastic land. Let them draw their masterpieces wherever they feel free (outside of course). It’s the only time my boys are allowed to draw all over the walls, and the pavement outside. A quick rinse with the hose, or a rain shower will leave absolutely no trace of Picasso’s masterpiece.

Playdough invitation to play trays

My only disclaimer here would be, if your kids are younger and they will be playing partially unsupervised, maybe make your own playdough. I have a super quick recipe here. That way you can have peace of mind that it is non-toxic and “safe” if they decide to swallow a mouthful. Set out the playdough on a tray and put individual items of interest in separate containers around it. You could theme it, for example; construction you could make a brown dough, add in a few toy diggers and some “stones” (fake or real), some sticks and tools. Let them create their own little universe. Alternatively, pre- order some carefully thought out themed packs from party play dough.

Sensory Trays

Limited supervision required depending on the route you take. I often post up our sensory tray adventures on Instagram and then forget to post them on the blog, so if you are looking for ideas make sure you follow my Instagram account here. Ideas to do could include a winter wonderland (with snow made from Bicarbonate of Soda and white conditioner), an undersea adventure, either made with jelly, cornflour and water or sludge, or an outer space galaxy made with some painted black rice, marbles, stars and figurines.

You can have a look at my sensory mud tray here or a cloud dough experience here.

So there are some activities to get you going, now that I’ve started I have a couple more up my sleeve. Sometimes you just have to write things out a little to get your mind going! I hope I’ve inspired you in some way. The “Mom Guilt” will never subside but we can make ourselves feel a little better.

Family Fun These Holidays At Fourways Mall

Posted on June 22, 2018June 26, 2018 by Rebecca

Eeeeeek ! It’s the first day of the Winter holidays here in South Africa. 3 whole weeks of school kids being at home and craving entertainment. As a parent I know one of my biggest questions is “what can I do with the kids”, “where can I take them”. If you are still looking for places around Johannesburg to take your kids you can see my favourites list here, or if your looking for child friendly restaurants have a look here .

These holidays I officially have one more place to add onto that list. Fourways Mall is the place to be these winter holidays, with a range of specially created and curated fun experiences adding to the centre’s already exciting mix of entertainment offerings for the whole family. Whilst it is under construction, with some even more exciting kid friendly additions (KidZania I am counting the days), the mall is still very much open!

Over and above the firm favourites such as BOUNCE, Adventure Golf and The Fun Company (including Tenpin Bowling and SpinZone Bumper Cars), the Mall has created 14 popup entertainment stations along the shopper’s journey, giving kids and adults alike the opportunity to take a breather whilst shopping.

The #FourwaysFun popup stations include activations such as ‘A Spot of Fun’, where kids (and maybe mums and dads!) are encouraged to stick coloured dots anywhere and everywhere, all over the walls and furniture too. For younger kids this is a chance to break all the rules and stick stickers where ever they want!

Instagrammable opportunities abound, from the Snow Globe selfie station to the Thought and Speech Bubbles corridor that adds a social twist to the passage to the bathrooms. Magnetic walls and colouring in opportunities create the Bucket List Wall outside Mr Price Home, along with a giant selfie frame to finish off that perfect shot.

Play-Doh has also jumped on board with an interactive Pop up “Play-Doh Town”. Journey through the interactive Play-Doh world and with a purchase from the stand and join the Play-Doh jamming section, where a modelling artist will be on hand to guide kids while they play, sculpt and mold their unique creations. On Friday June 22nd come and meet Childhood development expert and owner of the Pikanini Brand, Una van Staden. While the tots play, moms will get some great advice and tips on how to get the most out of playtime and inspiring imagination with Play-Doh.

The Mall will also be home to a baby grand piano – next to Foschini, seemingly held afloat by a cloud of balloons, and shoppers are invited to tickle the ivories for a touch of whimsy mid shopping journey. Get involved with creating art by trying your hand at the “Yarn bombing”, creating unique pieces of art with wool and pins.

The Emoji Mojo Corner offers a themed backdrop and endless emojis and other props to make the most of emoji moments, from ( 😀 ) to (hearteyes), (kiss), and of course (stareyes). This along with the Selfie Station filled with emoji balls may have just been the highlight for my boys.

For those that find shopping a little stressful, three pillars throughout the Mall are wrapped in bubble wrap, with shoppers invited to pop as many bubbles as they can. Can you say toddler heaven?

The Fun Factory offers Tenpin bowling, Spin Zone Bumper Cars, and a X-Rider 4 D Theatre, all in addition to its thrilling arcade games, making it the perfect destination to round off a busy day at the Mall. The beauty of this is that the bumper cars are “safer” for younger kids. I’ve taken my boys on some seriously rough bumper car rides before, where the impact was too rough for their little 4 year old bodies. This one however, with the boys safely on mom or dads lap was perfect for them.

What kid doesn’t love trampolines? BOUNCE is running a holiday programme in venue all day, every day of the school holidays and BOUNCE Epic Passes are available for anyone who wants all day access. For the more adventurous they also offer the first its kind wall climbing area called Clip ‘n Climb, as well as an adventure X-Park with an aerial runway.

Without a doubt my kids favourite stop at the Mall is Adventure Golf. Its Yusuf’s request every weekend to go and play a few rounds. At Fourways Mall the setting is so serene with waterfalls and tropical trees, it’s a treat for everyone!

While the 14 #FourwaysFun installations will only be in place from 22 June to 1 July 2018, they hint at the full “shoppertainment” offering that will be on offer once the Mall’s refurbishment is complete. New venues in the pipeline include KidZania, a massive children’s educational city, a Panarotti’s family restaurant on the lower food court level, and a new French Taco (Mezzanine Level) among others.

Fourways Mall has something for every member of the family, these holidays make a challenge out of it and see if you can spot all 14 of the #FourwaysFun installations. Its my number one family friendly mall!

Dermalogica Sound Sleep Cocoon Review – Tips For A Better Nights Sleep

Posted on June 13, 2018June 12, 2018 by Rebecca

I used to pride myself on getting a full nights sleep. 10 pm on the dot was my bed time and not a minute over. That was “BC” before children, and way before working hours saw me doing admin way past the midnight hours. Safe to say over the past 4 years, between 2 kids, broken sleep and vampire working hours, my skin was taken a beating.

I think Dermalogica noticed, because I was invited to the launch of the incredible “Sound Sleep Cocoon” and I’m pretty sure the sleep therapist was talking directly to me. How on earth could they tell? Turns out I’m not the only one.

When it comes to skin care, sleep is a crucial component for the skin’s recovery. Just missing a few nights of good sleep results in a decline in health and leads to dull skin prone to dehydration. A huge number of individuals around the world suffer from chronic sleep deprivation. Hence the development of Sound Sleep Cocoon.

This gel-cream transforms your skin through the midnight hours, optimizing skin-recovery. Formulated to work at night, Sound Sleep Cocoon works with your body’s natural circadian rhythm. Better quality sleep means your skin can effectively regenerate and restore itself from the harmful pollutants of the day.

Infused with motion-activated essential fragrances of French lavender, sandalwood and patchouli, this trio works together with tamarind seed extract, helping to send you into a deep, restful sleep while caressing your skin in a cocoon of soft and hydrating nourishment.

Can we just pause for a moment to look at the glorious list of ingredients?

-Persian Silk Tree Extract reduces signs of skin fatigue and restores vitality.
-Whu-Zhu-Yu Extract provides visibly radiant skin by morning and promotes a more refined skin texture.
-Kakadu Plum Extract, rich in antioxidant Vitamin C, is clinically shown to improve and brighten skin tone.
-Tamarind Seed Extract cushions the skin, creating a nourishing cocoon of comfort for softer, more hydrated skin.
-Encapsulated essential oil with motion-activated technology encapsulated, motion-activated French Lavender oil, along with calming Sandalwood and Patchouli, soothe the senses with aromatherapy to help promote deep, restful sleep for healthier-looking skin.

Even the packaging has been thought over with the finest detail. The top of the bottle shows the phases of the lunar cycle. It has a twist to unlock function, perfect for keeping in your overnight bag if travelling. Apply 1-2 pumps (I use 1 pump). Massage into your skin and then cup your hands over your nose and take 3 DEEP BREATHS….

Because Dermalogica always goes one step above and beyond they have also created an app that you can download. It plays sleep sounds, taking you into a place of relaxation and meditation, the which lasts 20 minutes to help you fall asleep. Between this and the addictive smell of the lavender you should be immediately transported to a place of serenity. You can have a listen here.

Sound Sleep Cocoon currently retails at R1295 for a 50ml, which I know is a pretty pricey product, but one bottle of this miracle worker should last you 3 months. Its absolutely worth it.

I leave you with Dermalogica’s 6 tips for a better nights sleep:

Turn off electronics and dim the lights 30 minutes before bedtime
Make your room as dark as possible and slightly cool
Avoid alcohol, sugar and caffeine before bed
Breathe deeply – it helps calm and relax your body
Go to sleep and wake up at the same time each day
In the morning, seek out bright light to help regulate your body clock.

There’s not much you can do about the weather, but there’s lots you can do to winter-proof your battery.

Here are 5 tips to keep it charged up all winter long.

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