Oh it was a tough day for cynics wasn't it?
Hard to watch a gorgeous girl marry her infatuated Prince without at least a little intrigue. Hard saying "I couldn't give a flying whatever" when you've got one eye on the screen and find yourself pondering what Harry has just said to his brother. Hard to conduct Republican arguments when your heart is screaming "go on William, one more kiss".
So for yesterday the majority of us forgot our national self-deprecation etiquette and went for it; street parties, camping on the Mall, waving our national flag.
Of course for most of the world who believe us to be a nation that rises in the morning to the tune of Rule Britannia, teach our children History of our Empire and generally sport a superior attitude, yesterday can have only enforced their mis-conceptions.
In truth we're a nation who wave our flag with huge hesitation having had it long-since hijacked by the far-right pigs, the BNP. Most of us are hugely uncomfortable with celebrating anything British - unless it's meat, we're OK about that.
I myself quite often while away a day writing on how education is better elsewhere, how parenting attitudes are more liberal overseas and I'd generally be queasy about slapping us on the backs, saying "well done chaps, we'll show 'em".
For just one day it was all different. The commentators were clearly on drugs as they said "Kate's smile is from her heart", "wow look at William, what a driver" and "the Royals are central to all British people's lives". In honesty I'd not given the Royals a second thought since I was buying scrunchies to have hair like Fergie's. But for yesterday, we all agreed - yes this is our Britain, this is what it's all about.
Well thankfully folks it's all over now and business can resume as normal. If you talk about That Kiss I will roll my eyes, and yes if I see you waving, or God forbid wearing, a Union Jack, I'll assume you're a racist. Gotta' love being British.
Saturday, 30 April 2011
Wheelies
We have a lot of wheels in our house. We have balance bikes, trikes, scooters with flashing lights (?), pedal bikes, tiny bikes, trundle toys - you name it. For someone who's never been into wheeled things of any sort that I can think of, it's quite a revolution my obsession with them of late.
Our newest little arrival is this Micro Scooter for Rosie. "Coo-elle" is how Rosie describes it and I'd second that. Firstly they look fabulous. Secondly they're pretty robust (Charles has had one which is surviving the Charles-treatment exceedingly well). Most importantly though, they're much more sturdy than regular scooters, with their two wheels at the front design and the main panel being so low.
You can buy them...
Direct from Micro-scooters
From Fun4Kids
Or from John Lewis
We were sent ours from Micro-Scooter to review.
Our newest little arrival is this Micro Scooter for Rosie. "Coo-elle" is how Rosie describes it and I'd second that. Firstly they look fabulous. Secondly they're pretty robust (Charles has had one which is surviving the Charles-treatment exceedingly well). Most importantly though, they're much more sturdy than regular scooters, with their two wheels at the front design and the main panel being so low.
Direct from Micro-scooters
From Fun4Kids
Or from John Lewis
We were sent ours from Micro-Scooter to review.
Friday, 29 April 2011
Thursday, 28 April 2011
Feminism for 5 year olds.
I’ve written lots on gender in education, on how to counteract gender stereotypes, books for children to consume (take Paper Bag Princess), language to evade (“I need a strong boy to help me with this”) and general silliness to stay clear of (plastic pink dolls house that metaphorically scream “girlzone”, for instance).
At home we practise what I preach. More or less. It took Rosie ages to twig the ‘pink for girls’ thing and I certainly wasn’t going to tell her. Charles is positively possessed with all things pink, simply because there’s so much of it around on the 5 year old girls that he’s usually seen encircled by. It’s gratifying to hear him shout “want PINK” when I reach for a bowl but I know it’s just a matter of time before he knows the guidelines.
This all said I get a little tired from time to time with implanting feminist attitudes and provoking questions. I know I believe in feminist principle much more than I adhere to it in reality. Whilst I’m far from the doting housewife of the pre-feminist era I don’t relate much either to the ‘having it all’ generation I’m presumed to belong to. In fact when I worked at a nursery where 6 week olds were dropped off 8 until 6, 5 days a week by their exhausted and stressed looking parents my early-20s-self concluded that ‘having it all’ doesn’t look half what it’s cracked up to be.
So whilst I’m thrilled that Rosie’s determined she’ll be a vet and Charles will prance around the front room in a fairy outfit telling me to get off his stage, I’ll not deny Rosie baby dolls or Charles a Bob the Builder hat if that’s what their gendered heart’s desire.
Surely feminism is about options. The pressure for women to ‘have it all’ ,whether they want it or not, is not about freedom but about applying more of a strain – a different kind of burden. If Rosie grows up to be a vet – fab. If she’s a vet with 5 children – great. So long as society gives her space to breathe, to decide and come to her own decisions.
Wednesday, 27 April 2011
Be My Guest; Fiona Wood founder of Naturally Cool Kids
Tell us about your work?
Naturally Cool Kids is a newly-launched children’s seasonal skincare range. Our products are all-natural and kind on your skin and we take a “no mess, no fuss, just fun” attitude for parents and children. Our product range consists of all-natural Sun Cream, After Sun, Bug Bands, Hair and Body Wash
And how did it all begin?
I had the idea for the business around 18 months ago, as I was contemplating returning to work when my youngest son Finlay started full time school. I am fully-trained beautician and alternative therapist and have learned all about the making of creams, soaps and washes etc. I already used natural skincare products on my children and wanted to be able to use natural products when it came to winter or summer, rather than having to compromise with petroleum based vapour rubs and chemical-laden sun creams. My light bulb moment (as I call it!) was to use my expertise and experience to fill this gap in the market. I entered the Barclays ‘Take One Small Step’ competition and my idea for an all-natural range of skincare products for children won! This meant I could take my dream off of the paper to become a reality. We then set about arranging the logistical side of the business.
What’s been the steepest learning curve?
Getting my timings right for everything has been one thing that I really had to work on as I wasn’t aware of the long timescales manufacturers need and I wanted everything made and ready yesterday! So planning each step is something I have become good at. Juggling finances to make sure that we don’t over spend in each area and stick to the budgets that were set out was also a learning curve and it’s not always easy to do when you want to do so much in such a short space of time.
When did you know ‘this is going to work’?
The public voted overwhelmingly in the Barclays competition and it was this response that gave me a good indication that people around the UK
Has it been hard managing work/life balance?
I am so lucky to have such a supportive family and friends; I could not have achieved what I have without them. My husband, David, has a very flexible work life with his own business, which has meant I could get on with my work when the children needed looking after. The kids have also been fantastic and they have been involved with the designing and modelling of all the products. My parents have been running around the country collecting materials as and when needed and helped with childcare too.
It is so important to have family and friends on your side when setting up as it can be intense and exhausting, and you need to be able to have someone to fall back on. As the business is run from our home, I am careful not to let it take over. I finish in time to pick the children up from school, and then carry on after the youngest has gone to bed. But then I do sometimes feel it would be nice to have an office to lock and up leave then when I come home the temptation to carry on working wouldn’t be there!
What would be your advice to others wanting to start their own ‘show’?
If you have a good idea and a supportive network of family and friends then go for it! It isn’t easy but the sense of achievement and enjoyment you will get from seeing it all come together is unbelievable. The Barclays ‘Take One Small Step’ competition is open again this year for the whole of the UK
And if someone says you cannot do it, then more the reason to go ahead and give it a go!
Get your shorts on
OK so the sunshine has temporarily gone into hiding. But soon we'll have the excuse to get those chubby little legs out again!
Here's a few of my fave shorts around at the mo...
Here's a few of my fave shorts around at the mo...
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| Boys Boden shorts £16 |
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| Girls Boden Pedal Pushers £14 |
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| Girls Joules denim shorts £22 |
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Boy Jersey Shorts from Joules £16 |
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| Ripcurl Girls Shorts £28 |
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| Pirate Shorts from Seasalt Cornwall £16 |
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| Animal Print shorts from Green Baby £10 |
Tuesday, 26 April 2011
£20 off at Boden
Boden are doing an offer where you get £20 off if you spend £80 as a Royal Wedding thing, just between now and Friday. Click this link
The code is RING
The code is RING
Our New Bestest Book; Banana Skin Chaos
This book is a riot! We loved it!
Hubert eats all of his banana.
Well, almost all of it.
He doesn't eat the skin, of course -
He throws it on the ground.
Luckily his wise big sis' is on hand and, with her imagination running wild she informs him of all the possible and terrible outcomes that could occur as a result of his dreadful litter bugging!
Of course, someone slips on it, and then plenty more alarming chaos unfolds with each page. With very few words but huge detail in the pictures children can have a hoot spotting each chaotic incident.
The narrative is simple and direct and fairly minimal too, therefore reminding me of the picture-only books I adored as a child. It was great for sharing with 2 different aged children as they both got lots from it, and found it particularly amusing as Charles is somewhat infamous for his love (verging on obsession) with bananas!
Author and illustrator Lilli L'Arronge lives in Munster, Germany, where she works as an illustrator and designer. This is her first book to be published in the UK.
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| Buy from Play.com |
Hubert eats all of his banana.
Well, almost all of it.
He doesn't eat the skin, of course -
He throws it on the ground.
Luckily his wise big sis' is on hand and, with her imagination running wild she informs him of all the possible and terrible outcomes that could occur as a result of his dreadful litter bugging!
Of course, someone slips on it, and then plenty more alarming chaos unfolds with each page. With very few words but huge detail in the pictures children can have a hoot spotting each chaotic incident.
The narrative is simple and direct and fairly minimal too, therefore reminding me of the picture-only books I adored as a child. It was great for sharing with 2 different aged children as they both got lots from it, and found it particularly amusing as Charles is somewhat infamous for his love (verging on obsession) with bananas!
Author and illustrator Lilli L'Arronge lives in Munster, Germany, where she works as an illustrator and designer. This is her first book to be published in the UK.
New Water Bottles
Get your kids to drink water in the sunshine this year with these super-kid-friendly bottles. There's Fireman Sam, Angelina Ballerina and Bob the Builder.
Available from Boots and ASDA nationwide for 49p a bottle or £2.49 per pack of 6.
Available from Boots and ASDA nationwide for 49p a bottle or £2.49 per pack of 6.
The opinions expressed herein are actually not that belonging to the author
Come Friday what will you be doing?
That's the Royal Wedding malarky, I'm referring too. In pre-parenting times I probably would have needed reminding.
Then, when the day arrived I would have either ignored the entire hullabaloo or watched some cynical coverage over on some channel that isn't the BBC.
As it is though, I'll probably be waving a union jack, wearing red, white and blue and accessorising with 2 children that will look like a Nick Griffin-type vision of the future.
I'm not patriotic. But I'm aware discussing the possibility of a republic, talking about "tax-payers money" and moaning about media-hype does not a good party make.
Of course, I shouldn't be surprised at my sudden rejection of my long-held beliefs and opinions for the sake of the kids. Politically there's been a fair few changes made since the arrival of these little folk.
For a start there's schools. Now, as a teacher the poorer the catchment the better. As a parent - not so much.
When it comes to secondary my pre-supposed position of anti-grammar and really anti-private remains for now but, if we don't move to a better catchment by then, or if we win the lottery, those views will be swiftly moved to the ever-increasing 'subject to change' category.
There's friendships too. When they're little you get to choose. Their friends are your friend's kids. Easy peasy. But when they go to school your open-minded, everyone's-equal disposition is really tested, and if it's anyway as fragile as mine, will fail gravely. "Can Chantelle-Jaine come for tea Mummy?" Mmmm perhaps one day.
I'd like to take this opporunity to apologise to my former left-wing, true-to-my-beliefs self. The one who spent much of her uni days learning political history - of Thatcher in her "no such thing as society days" (who David Big-Society Cameron idolised) and feeling as left-wing as my Labour Party parents had raised me. I'm sorry to my late teens self who first voted in the landslide of '97, and then to my early twenties self who stayed up to watch Question Time religiously. I'll come out the other side. Once my kids have been Etoned and hung out with people from all walks - from the Bryons to the Hugos. And please believe me when I say this lady is definitely for turning.
That's the Royal Wedding malarky, I'm referring too. In pre-parenting times I probably would have needed reminding.
Then, when the day arrived I would have either ignored the entire hullabaloo or watched some cynical coverage over on some channel that isn't the BBC.
As it is though, I'll probably be waving a union jack, wearing red, white and blue and accessorising with 2 children that will look like a Nick Griffin-type vision of the future.
I'm not patriotic. But I'm aware discussing the possibility of a republic, talking about "tax-payers money" and moaning about media-hype does not a good party make.
Of course, I shouldn't be surprised at my sudden rejection of my long-held beliefs and opinions for the sake of the kids. Politically there's been a fair few changes made since the arrival of these little folk.
For a start there's schools. Now, as a teacher the poorer the catchment the better. As a parent - not so much.
When it comes to secondary my pre-supposed position of anti-grammar and really anti-private remains for now but, if we don't move to a better catchment by then, or if we win the lottery, those views will be swiftly moved to the ever-increasing 'subject to change' category.
There's friendships too. When they're little you get to choose. Their friends are your friend's kids. Easy peasy. But when they go to school your open-minded, everyone's-equal disposition is really tested, and if it's anyway as fragile as mine, will fail gravely. "Can Chantelle-Jaine come for tea Mummy?" Mmmm perhaps one day.
I'd like to take this opporunity to apologise to my former left-wing, true-to-my-beliefs self. The one who spent much of her uni days learning political history - of Thatcher in her "no such thing as society days" (who David Big-Society Cameron idolised) and feeling as left-wing as my Labour Party parents had raised me. I'm sorry to my late teens self who first voted in the landslide of '97, and then to my early twenties self who stayed up to watch Question Time religiously. I'll come out the other side. Once my kids have been Etoned and hung out with people from all walks - from the Bryons to the Hugos. And please believe me when I say this lady is definitely for turning.
Be My Guest: Natasha Duberry Founder of Mummy's Online
Tell us about your company and how it all began?
Mummys online is an e-commerce shopping website selling fashionable and
unusual baby clothing and accessories for ages 0-3. We have been in
business for 2 and a half years. After having my boys, I always found it
difficult to find unique and funky things for them to wear on the high
street and also when buying gifts for friends children was always unhappy
with what was available. As a result, I started buying stuff abroad as I
found it to be more interesting. I began to realise that other people must
have the same frustrations as me so why not develop a shop where all of
these items can be purchased in one place. I had previously worked as a
fashion buyer for a large department store prior to having my children so
I had the expertise required to source products. Also, I knew that I
wanted something that I could fit in around the school runs, therefore a
website rather than a shop and so www.mummys online.com was born!
How do you find managing the whole work/family life issue?
The 1st couple of years were really tough as the business was new and
therefore I was wanting and needing to put in really long hours to get it
up and running and my baby was only 8 months old! However, I had a huge
amount of support from my family and that helped enormously. Now, however
both children are in full time school/nursery and so I am finding alot
easier and am able to work all day and then switch off when they come home
so that I can give them attention. You have to be very disciplined with
yourself in order to balance everything but I think I manage just about!
No two days are ever the same, sometimes (like in school holidays) I have
to put work on the back burner a little bit and spend more time with the
kids but then I just make sure I make the work up and work flat out when
they go back!
If you hadn't become a mother would this have ever been on the cards?
I don't think I would have had the idea if it hadn't have been for the
children (so thanks kids!!!) but I definately think I would have wanted to
be my own boss at some point.
Mummys online is an e-commerce shopping website selling fashionable and
unusual baby clothing and accessories for ages 0-3. We have been in
business for 2 and a half years. After having my boys, I always found it
difficult to find unique and funky things for them to wear on the high
street and also when buying gifts for friends children was always unhappy
with what was available. As a result, I started buying stuff abroad as I
found it to be more interesting. I began to realise that other people must
have the same frustrations as me so why not develop a shop where all of
these items can be purchased in one place. I had previously worked as a
fashion buyer for a large department store prior to having my children so
I had the expertise required to source products. Also, I knew that I
wanted something that I could fit in around the school runs, therefore a
website rather than a shop and so www.mummys online.com was born!
How do you find managing the whole work/family life issue?
The 1st couple of years were really tough as the business was new and
therefore I was wanting and needing to put in really long hours to get it
up and running and my baby was only 8 months old! However, I had a huge
amount of support from my family and that helped enormously. Now, however
both children are in full time school/nursery and so I am finding alot
easier and am able to work all day and then switch off when they come home
so that I can give them attention. You have to be very disciplined with
yourself in order to balance everything but I think I manage just about!
No two days are ever the same, sometimes (like in school holidays) I have
to put work on the back burner a little bit and spend more time with the
kids but then I just make sure I make the work up and work flat out when
they go back!
If you hadn't become a mother would this have ever been on the cards?
I don't think I would have had the idea if it hadn't have been for the
children (so thanks kids!!!) but I definately think I would have wanted to
be my own boss at some point.
What's the best thing about running your own business?
When its your own, you are passionate and want to make sure every little
detail is done the way you want. I love that I can manage my own time and
fit work in around my children's schooling and other activities. It means
I can be involved in most things that they do.
What's the hardest thing?
Being disciplined and strict with yourself all of the time as you don't
have anyone telling you you have to work. Also knowing that if business is
slow or things are going wrong that this is going to have a direct
influence on you and your family as it is your business and your not just
an employee. Sometimes, it is also very hard to switch off at the end of
the day, I cant leave work at work and not take it home with me as I work
from home!!!
What would your advice be to other mums wanting to start their own
business?
Make sure its something you are passionate about otherwise you may lose
interest. There will be times when you will have to sacrifice time with
your children to get work done and if its not something you really enjoy
you will be more likely to give up. The initial set up involves long hours
and alot of stress so make sure you have support from family and friends.
Most importantly, don't give up. It can be a long and slow process but the
rewards eventually make it worthwhile!
Sunday, 24 April 2011
Saturday, 23 April 2011
Easter Bunny - just another lie to add to the pile
Do we call them lies? These un-truths we tell our kids.
"Santa will come on Christmas Eve when you and your brother have gone to sleep. When Mummy and Daddy are drinking wine in peace."
"The tooth-fairy will come if you keep your teeth nice and clean for her."
TV = square eyes
Too many sweets = teeth will drop out
Mis-behave = no presents
Lie = Mummy will know
Push your brother = he'll remember for when he's big
Today's testing it even for me. Yes me with my 5 year diploma in Applied Lieing with Deception Studies.
"Mummy what time does the Easter Bunny come?" "I'm not sure honey". Second thoughts; "when you're asleep, yes definitly when you're asleep".
"How does he carry all the chocolate?" Good point, flaming good point. "Hmmm. Ooooo. Hummmm. Well I think he might have a little joey-type pouch attachment."
"How does he know if you like chocolate or not?" "because you're a child".
"Does he come to everyone?" "oh no...only children who've been really good"
Ah, so so mean. That was a cheeky amuse-myself one to see a glimmer of doubt as she remembers...
"Well, good most of the time anyway"
Cue relief in beautiful brown eyes.
It's all over. Distract by passing her the rake. That'll keep her busy.
Then; "is the Easter Bunny real Mummy?"
"I'm not sure but I think so"
And honestly, my 5 year old said "shall we google it?" !
I'm tired. Is it over yet?
"Santa will come on Christmas Eve when you and your brother have gone to sleep. When Mummy and Daddy are drinking wine in peace."
"The tooth-fairy will come if you keep your teeth nice and clean for her."
TV = square eyes
Too many sweets = teeth will drop out
Mis-behave = no presents
Lie = Mummy will know
Push your brother = he'll remember for when he's big
Today's testing it even for me. Yes me with my 5 year diploma in Applied Lieing with Deception Studies.
"Mummy what time does the Easter Bunny come?" "I'm not sure honey". Second thoughts; "when you're asleep, yes definitly when you're asleep".
"How does he carry all the chocolate?" Good point, flaming good point. "Hmmm. Ooooo. Hummmm. Well I think he might have a little joey-type pouch attachment."
"How does he know if you like chocolate or not?" "because you're a child".
"Does he come to everyone?" "oh no...only children who've been really good"
Ah, so so mean. That was a cheeky amuse-myself one to see a glimmer of doubt as she remembers...
"Well, good most of the time anyway"
Cue relief in beautiful brown eyes.
It's all over. Distract by passing her the rake. That'll keep her busy.
Then; "is the Easter Bunny real Mummy?"
"I'm not sure but I think so"
And honestly, my 5 year old said "shall we google it?" !
I'm tired. Is it over yet?
Friday, 22 April 2011
Bookworm Boys - in Child Care Professional
Book Worm Boys
Getting boys to be barmy over books can seem like an Everest-style challenge for child care professionals at times. Here Phoebe Doyle explains how to get boys enthusing about literature.
There’s been quite a media buzz over recent years surrounding the alleged failure of boys when judged against their girl peers in literacy skills. National Curriculum tests have been fairly consistent at finding boys performance lower at all ages when it comes to reading. So why should this be the case? Differences in boys and girls learning styles have been held partly responsible. It’s often said that boys show an inclination toward ‘kinesthetic’ learning; meaning that they learn by ‘doing’. Others see the literacy gap as a sad yet inevitable consequence of our societal expectations of what boys and girls should do. Research has demonstrated that we talk to boys differently, cuddle them less and encourage them to pursue different activities, former children’s laureate, poet and author Michael Rosen suggests; “perhaps these very small, almost unnoticeable things add up to something very significant: that we suggest to them, without meaning to, that hanging around with a book, is somehow not a very masculine thing to do”. As child care professionals we have to take de-feminising literature seriously, introducing boys to books from the outset. It’s up to us to actively encourage our boys to become immersed, excited and passionate about stories.
By the time they enter the school environment boys are behind when it comes to verbal, communication and reading skills and most statistics show the gap only widening as the years go by. So in the early years, from babydom to toddlerdom and beyond child care professionals have a key role in helping boys to see themselves as readers, as lovers of literature, helping them to connect to the rich, fruitful world that is books.
Giving Reading a Purpose
Michael Rosen explains that; “children not only have to learn how to read, they have to learn why to read! You learn that through discovering that books are fun, interesting and amazing places to go.” So tuning into a child’s interest is essential when selecting books to present to them. Be it dinosaurs, lorries, aeroplanes, whatever; all are equally valid topics for getting boys excited about reading. “While children are learning how to read, you should read to the children the kinds of books they like” says Michael, adding, “you only find that out through trial and error.”
Selecting Books
As child care professionals we need to acknowledge that the boys in our care are generally living in a female-centric world. The National Child-minding Association (NCMA) has noticed a recent increase in male child-minders but only from a miniscule 1% to a still pretty tiny 2% and it doesn’t stop there. Nursery practitioners, play workers, health visitors, and teachers are all professions where men are scarce, and this may leave our boys at a disadvantage in certain respects. It’s therefore vital that the books we present boys with are brimming with positive male role models, have ‘boy-friendly’ topics and story lines and use language which appeals to all.
Experts say that the best strategy is to have lots of books, covering all genres and all interests and fascinations possible. Michael explains; “The simplest thing to do is to have plenty of books wherever you live. This need not cost a penny. We have free books in this country. They come from libraries. You can get 12 books out on one child's ticket”.
Of course many child care professionals do this on a regular basis already but it’s worth knowing that there have been faint murmurs from government in recent months about library services being ‘reviewed’ and so there is no better time to support and use your local one. Also the whole concept of lending books and returning them for others is so warming and satisfying that it’s an experience that all children should have regardless. Libraries demonstrate, by their mere existence, that books are exciting, liberating and are best shared.
As to which particular books we should look for Michael explains it’s about finding the ‘wow’ factor; “quite often these are books that have funny or amazing moments. These might be terrifying or worrying moments - as you get with fairy tales and myths. Or it might be the kind of funny moments that you get with someone like Roald Dahl.” Using rhyme is a popular format in picture books these days, “think of Julia Donaldson's books (The Gruffalo etc); these help children anticipate what's coming”, says Michael.
Boys may also become fixated on one particular book and want it read to them again and again. Sue Palmer, author of Toxic Childhood says; “they love to become familiar with a book, to know it’s rhythm, to develop a sense of expectation of what is to come, this is fine, follow their lead”. For little ones these objects of obsession may be touchy-feely or lift-the-flap type books which they are happy to be absorbed in time and time again, perhaps particularly relevant for boys who yearn for multi-sensory learning experiences.
Non-Fiction, Comics and the literary snobs
Anecdotal evidence often suggests that boys don't enjoy picking up books, and for the majority of boys this simply isn’t the case. It’s what we consider proper books that can sometimes be the issue. Teachers, parents and child-minders are all guilty from time to time of a little literary snobbery when it comes to valuing what a child reads. Most would prefer to see a child open up an awe-inspiring picture story-book, full of clever symbolism and poetic language, than to see them pick up a non-fiction text on, say, trucks. Stop right there. If children aren’t allowed and encouraged to choose their own books their motivation will plummet and their reading skills won’t progress.
Repeatedly many boys have been shown to prefer, at least most of the time, to read non-fiction and who are we to judge? Encourage reading for all it’s purposes, and help them acquire the skills to get the most from books. In the case of non-fiction this involves explicitly teaching them about contents and index pages, glossaries and references, and when the interest is there, children of a surprisingly young age can acquire these skills. Indeed since the introduction of the Literacy Strategy using non-fiction like this has been firmly on the curriculum for children of 5, and there’s no reason you can’t start with the basics at an even younger age.
Likewise comics and books written in comic-strip have been an eternal fascination for boys. Again ensure that you demonstrate these are offered equal value to other reading materials. Ask them questions about the settings and the plots, look amazed over the awesome antics of the characters, get involved and thrilled with them.
Some Final Words
In a society where the ‘boys will be boys’ attitude prevails child care professionals need ensure they offer the boys in their care every opportunity and experience that can help them discover and adore books. The importance of this will have far-reaching consequences; giving them a head start in literacy skills where their gender so often falls behind. Acknowledging the difference between the sexes is not about a return to un-equal opportunities. On the contrary recognising the disparate needs of all in our care is essential in providing for each unique child. Knowing that boys may need a different route into the book world, and developing strategies from this can only be considered good practice.
BOX
Childhood expert Sue Palmer says; “boys are reading less and less as they get older. Screen based entertainment is their default activity and this must change as reading is so important when it comes to brain development”.
Sue offers 5 tips for child care professionals:
· Sing rhymes at every opportunity – this forms the basics of phonic knowledge
· Read stories, one to one or as a small group as often as feasible
· Tune into their interests
· Before the age of 16 months resist DVDs or tapes as a replacement for one to one / one to small group, singing or story times
· Make reading together time warm and cosy. Story time with an attachment figure is a building block for educational development.
3 hot off the press books to get them hooked
Polly Dunbar (2010) Where’s Tumpty? Walker Press; This one plays on the age-old obsession of tots with hiding and the hilarity this brings.
Julia Donaldson (2010) The Troll Macmillan Children’s Books: Having a troll and a pirate as the protagonists and you are on to a sure winner with this one.
Nick Sharratt (2010) The Foggy, Foggy Forest Walker Press; Kids love Nick Sharratt with his astoundingly clever yet remarkably simply illustrations, this one though is quite unique with it’s mysterious misty landscape creating spooky scenes.
Thursday, 21 April 2011
M & S Summer School Kit
Whenever Rosie's pondering over what to wear to school I do that Mummy line from the Parenting Dictionary; "it's not a fashion show" which in my case can be briefly translated into "oooh I don't know - shall we go for the gingham or the plain? Shall we do oh-so-cute knee highs or pretty little ankles?" When will I grow up? Rhetorical by the way.  |
| School Dresses from £8 |
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| School Socks from £3 |
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| Boys Shorts from £6 |
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| Girls Shirts £5 |
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| Pinny and top set £8 |
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| Boys Polos from £3 |
Be My Guest: Jude Clay from the RSPCA
The RSPCA is such a well-respected charity, what is the work that the RSPCA do that you are most proud to be associated with?
As a press officer, I am part of a team responsible for maintaining the RSPCA’s reputation in the media. I love seeing how coverage in the press can have a real and tangible impact on the organisation – such as when a rehoming appeal is successful and animals find new homes or when an appeal for information brings a case to court.
One of the first court cases I was involved with was that of James Gray and his family following the discovery of horses, ponies and donkeys living in horrific conditions at Spindle Farm in Amersham. I was also involved in the rehoming publicity of the horses who were rescued and rehabilitated from Spindle Farm. It was simply wonderful to see them recovered from their ordeal and ready to start a new and happy life.
Tell us about the impact the recession has had on pets?
Sadly, the recession has had an impact on charities such as the RSPCA in several ways. Many families have understandably been struggling to manage their finances and during times when money is tight, it’s often the pet which is the first thing to have to go. This has also seen a reduction in the number of animals we have been able to rehome as less people are willing to take on a pet and the associated costs which come with them.
This all comes at a time when our own money is tight and every, single penny is being carefully counted. The RSPCA relies heavily on donations to keep preventing cruelty and promoting kindness to animals. A large proportion of RSPCA income is from legacies so this has also decreased as property prices have tumbled.
We can only ask people to support us in any way that they can safe in the knowledge that their money is being well spent on protecting animal welfare.
You must hear some harrowing tales of animal cruelty, is it hard not to take the stories from work home with you?
In my line of work, I hear about harrowing tales of animal cruelty on a daily basis. Despite having been with the charity for a number of years, I am not desensitised and I still find it difficult and emotional to hear about some stories. But I think this has a positive impact as it spurs me on to want to do something to help and reinforces my pride in working for the organisation.
Last year, I visited the RSPCA Animal Hospital in Putney, south London. I spent a day “behind the scenes” at the busy centre meeting the staff and the animals that were being cared for. One particular cat caught my eye. Elderly tabby Maverick had been brought in a few weeks earlier after being found trapped in an abandoned house. Because of his old age, staff were concerned that they would not be able to find a new home for him. However, I immediately fell for his loving, comedic nature and Maverick came home with me a few days later after I passed the necessary rehoming checks. The animal hospital runs a great scheme called Putney Pensioners to encourage people to take on elderly animals by paying for any age-related medical treatment they may need. The fear of expensive vet bills can put people off rehoming elderly animals but thanks to Putney Pensioners, lots of animals have enjoyed their twilight years in loving homes.
Everyone who works for the RSPCA knows it’s not your average 9-5 job – people here really care for animals and it shows in everything we do.
What advice would you like to tell someone thinking of getting a pet for the first time?
Owning a pet is a long term commitment so people thinking of bringing one home should make sure they are happy to look after it for its lifetime – which could be several years.
Think about the size of your home and the facilities you could provide for a pet such as a quiet space for rest or a garden to play in. If you are in rented accommodation, it is important to check with your landlord that you are allowed to keep pets in the property.
Make sure you have the time, money and knowledge to properly care for your pet. We would always encourage people to get as much information as possible about the specific needs of the animal before bringing one home.
If you are sure that you can take on a pet, the RSPCA advises people not to visit a pet shop or answer an advert in a newspaper but to visit a rescue centre and give an animal a second chance. There are lots of animals in RSPCA shelters throughout England and Wales who are desperate to find new owners. Cats, dogs, rabbits, chinchillas, ferrets – you may be surprised just what animals are available for rehoming.
The RSPCA website includes lots of information about what your pet will need to remain happy and healthy and information on pets needing new homes – have a look at www.rspca.org.uk
How can we help support the RSPCA?
Lots of RSPCA branches throughout England and Wales rely on volunteers for a wide variety of tasks – much more than dog walking and cat cuddling. Call our enquiries team on 0300 1234 555 to find out how you could help.
Or if you would like to support the charity by making a donation or rehoming one of the many animals currently in our care, log onto www.rspca.org.uk
We have recently launched a nationwide appeal to find pet fosterers through our Pet Retreat scheme. This service temporarily looks after animals belonging to people fleeing domestic violence. It is currently handling more calls than ever before from people who are desperate to flee domestic abuse and need us to look after their pets while they do so.
Around 100 calls are being taken every single week and often people have more than one animal that they would like us to look after. With only 80 Pet Retreat fosterers throughout England and Wales at the moment, there is an obvious and urgent need for more people to come forward and offer a temporary home to these very special animals.
It takes a special person to be a PetRetreat fosterer. Ideally, they will have experience of owning a pet and therefore be patient, understanding and empathetic towards the needs of the animal. They need to be prepared to look after the animal for around six months or possibly even longer. To apply, call 0300 123 8000 or log onto www.rspca.org.uk/petretreat
A post by an utter heathen. Lord forgive me.
Although not religious I'm usually from the pretty square school of thought that if you're going to celebrate a religious festival, you should at least have some knowledge of the story behind it.
At Christmas - no problemo! "Some people believe that at Christmas Jesus was born", I started. There was so much to go with, Roald Dahl took a well-deserved rest for an entire month. We have a pregnant Mummy, on a donkey off to pay some money and she ends up having the baby in a stable. She calls him Jesus. "Well it's a funny name to us yes, but he was a special baby so that wasn't really the issue".There's angels and animals and shepherds and Kings and presents. "No, you probably wouldn't want those presents but then Jesus probably didn't want a Barbie stable either." Even scrooges must admit Christmas has a fabulous plot if nothing else. All that's missing is an appearance from the Zingzillas and it'd be the complete package.
Easter I'm finding somewhat trickier. It's a bit grim isn't it? Well I know there's that good bit at the end but to be frank Rosie didn't look that convinced on the resurrection; tooth fairy - yes, resurrection - really Mummy really?
So whilst I'm trying to tell us all that Easter isn't just about chocolate. I'm beginning to think I may just wing it by saying that what I meant by that is there's simnel cake and hot cross buns to also pay serious consideration too.
At Christmas - no problemo! "Some people believe that at Christmas Jesus was born", I started. There was so much to go with, Roald Dahl took a well-deserved rest for an entire month. We have a pregnant Mummy, on a donkey off to pay some money and she ends up having the baby in a stable. She calls him Jesus. "Well it's a funny name to us yes, but he was a special baby so that wasn't really the issue".There's angels and animals and shepherds and Kings and presents. "No, you probably wouldn't want those presents but then Jesus probably didn't want a Barbie stable either." Even scrooges must admit Christmas has a fabulous plot if nothing else. All that's missing is an appearance from the Zingzillas and it'd be the complete package.
Easter I'm finding somewhat trickier. It's a bit grim isn't it? Well I know there's that good bit at the end but to be frank Rosie didn't look that convinced on the resurrection; tooth fairy - yes, resurrection - really Mummy really?
So whilst I'm trying to tell us all that Easter isn't just about chocolate. I'm beginning to think I may just wing it by saying that what I meant by that is there's simnel cake and hot cross buns to also pay serious consideration too.
Wednesday, 20 April 2011
Royal Wedding Stuff
I don't usually have a patriotic bone in my miserable little body but I'm becoming just a smidge excited about this 'do' due to having a five year old who's constantly asking "is it in real life?" as she's so amazed by the whole malarkey.
So here I find myself, un-ashamedly plugging some union-jack, cool-London, Royal Wedding embellished products. From the classy to the tacky. Forgive me...
So here I find myself, un-ashamedly plugging some union-jack, cool-London, Royal Wedding embellished products. From the classy to the tacky. Forgive me...
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| Princess trunki £40 |
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| Doodle book from Mom Books £5 |
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| Boden Boys Tee £15 |
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| GLTC Cupake Set £8 |
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| Magnetic Noticeboard from GLTC £25 |
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| An almost Bridesmaid-Type Dress from M & S from £35 |
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| For an English Rose, Boden girls top now £12 |
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| What can I say? A Royal Wedding Bib £8 |
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| Usborne Sticker Book £5.99 |
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| Bunting from Poundland £1 |
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| Special Edition Little Tikes Car GB Cozy Coupe £59.99 from Toys R Us from next week |
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| ELC Bride Dress Up £25 |
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| Flag £2.99 Woolworths Online |
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| Play Mobil Special Editions from Toys R Us |
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| Miffy Princess £20.99 from www.miffyshop.co.uk |
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| Cute wedding outfit (should you be invited!) Miniclub Cardigan £10 and dress £10 available at Boots |
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| Special Edition Mini from Corgi £9.99 |
Tuesday, 19 April 2011
Be My Guest: Lisa Pugh Finger Print Jewellery founder
Tell us about your company and how it all began?
I’ve enjoyed being creative for as long as I can remember, whether it’s been making items for myself, for friends, or just because I enjoy it. I find it very rewarding to make something from start to finish and get a great deal of satisfaction from it. With a full time office job, and a family to raise, though, my creativity was usually limited to being a hobby.
After my children arrived, I changed career direction and bought into a children’s franchise which was great. I loved building the business up and being part of a successful brand, without the worry usually associated with business start-ups, and I was still able to satisfy my creative side with making jewellery in my spare time.
One day, I noticed one of the moms had a keyring which had a faint fingerprint indention with her child’s name scratched into the surface. I liked the sentiment behind it, but the quality was really quite poor, and, being the type of person I am (a perfectionist!) I went on a personal mission to find a way of making something with my own boys’ fingerprints; but something I’d be proud to wear round my neck.
I spent many happy weekends and evenings experimenting and researching with different tools and equipment until I perfected my technique and ended up teaching myself a whole range of new skills in the process. I made many different pieces but I wore my Fingerprint Dog Tag necklace of my boys’ fingerprints with the greatest pride. Then, to my surprise, after just a few weeks word spread about my necklace amongst friends and I suddenly had a full order book. Soon I was off driving up and down the country taking more fingerprints of friends’ children… and then friends of their friends. I soon realised that I was making something that other people thought was really special too, and in doing so filled a gap in the market. I kept hearing time after time that they’d been looking for a quality keepsakes that wasn’t just for babies but growing families too, to celebrate whole families from grandchild to grandfather and everyone in between.
How do you make the transition from hobby to business?
Tim, my partner, designed me a very basic website (www.fingerprint-jewellery.co.uk) which really was just a showcase for the jewellery, but which helped to advertise it further afield. After a few months of driving the breadth of the UK it was soon apparent that I needed to find an effective way to manage my time and orders and I needed to find a way for customers to take their own family’s fingerprints without the need to arrange an appointment. Soon “my hobby” was all I could think about, and day- by- day my dream job of using my creative talents AND earning a living, was actually looking like it could come true.
It was at this point that I decided to sell the franchise that I'd built up over 10 years to concentrate on research and development for FingerPrint Jewellery experimenting with techniques to ensure I could produce jewellery to the highest standard time after time for my ever increasing customer base. After several months of experimenting with different materials I had the impression process for a mail-order “kit” perfected and I had a new website professionally designed so that customers could order their jewellery on-line and receive an a FingerPrint impression kit through the post.
What’s the best thing about running your own business?
Being around for my family and doing a job that I thoroughly enjoy. Although I often work long hours (and sometimes through the night) I am working from home and my door is never shut. The boys have always been my number one priority and now they are older, (Harry is 18 Charlie is 16) I am lucky that I have a business that I love too, and I am able to juggle family life and run a very successful business without compromising my commitment to my family.
I absolutely love making the jewellery, and am pleased that 5 years on I am still doing so every single day. I also like talk to my customers and get their feedback, and often their thoughts and suggestions lead on to new designs. It was after talking to a close friend in 2007 who had just sadly lost her baby that I wanted to find a way to create something for her. I wanted to make something that would take a child's actual printed hand/footprint and recreate in miniature directly into pure solid silver. After several months I finally cracked it and presented her with a gift, and so launched two new ranges “Ten Tiny Toes” and “Little Picassos”. Ten Tiny Toes is the now most popular item of jewellery for newborns, Christening gifts and 1st birthdays, or as a way of keeping angel babies close to their mothers at all times, and it is a range that I am very passionate about.
And for our fabulously quirky “Little Picassos” jewellery we take children’s drawings and turn them into a truly original piece of jewellery, a one-off piece designed by your child! These are my absolute favourite designs to work on as they are all so special and unique, I just love children’s drawings!
What drives FingerPrint Jewellery forward?
Our customers! The personal story behind each item of jewellery is extremely important to us but we recognise that this sentiment alone is not enough. 5 years on, I believe the success of Fingerprint Jewellery is down to a number of other things too. Determination to provide the best possible product is only the beginning of it; the whole process from ordering to receiving their jewellery has to exceed a customer’s expectations and be better than what they may have come to expect when buying online.
Happy Customers are paramount to the ongoing success of FingerPrint Jewellery and we make sure that our customers have the best possible customer service and customer experience possible. Over half of our new business comes from a satisfied customer’s personal recommendation, and that’s something we are immensely proud of.
What are the future plans for FingerPrint Jewellery?
With the success of FingerPrint Jewellery on-line now truly established, with an award winning website and as a finalist for a “Creative Innovation” award under our belts, we are now refocused on offering the personal service my initial customers enjoyed. So in 2010, our first FingerPrint Jewellery Designers completed their intensive training in the FingerPrint Jewellery Design Studio, and now these creative mums now own and run their own FingerPrint Jewellery Franchise Businesses. All of these are mums who would never have considered starting their own business, but who now have the support of the brand and expanding team behind FingerPrint Jewellery. They have all made the leap into self-employment very easily and are already reaping the benefits of working for themselves.
We’re expanding the personal service further and we’ll be taking prints and orders in selected John Lewis branches from April 2011. We are really looking forward the developing our relationship with John Lewis, they are a fabulous company to work with.
What would your advice be to other Mums wanting to start their own business?
Recognise your strengths and weaknesses early on, don’t let your weaknesses put you off doing what you are good at, find someone to help out rather than doing something badly yourself or not doing it at all. Business Link are great for moral and business support, and finding someone with the answers. I’m not keen on business paperwork, I would much rather be making jewellery. I have a great accountant who has worked with me for 15 years that is happy to receive a box of receipts and invoices.
Be prepared to work long hours, and into the early hours if necessary and forget the 9 to 5 - you’ll only get out what you are prepared to put in. Be prepared to reinvest money back into your business and keep innovating if you want to stay ahead in the market, and make sure there is a market out there for YOUR product and know what makes your product different from your competitors. Know your USP (Unique Selling Point) FingerPrint Jewellery’s USP is quality over competitors and excellent customer service. We ensure we lead the market with our innovative new designs and we know that our 1000’s of happy customers across the globe agree!
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