Back to school 2015 by MumsDelivery

Back to School Checklist Homework Tips

Back to School Guide

Tech Tips

Your comprehensive guide of the hottest school products for 2015 Lunchbox Recipes & more

Getting Ready for kindy

Melissa & Doug Alphabet Write-A-Mat Educational and entertaining double-sided, write on, wipe off placemats. These durable activity mats are a fantastic teaching aid to help your child learn who to write. RRP: $3.99 Available: MumsDelivery Market

ABC For Kids: Ready for School Get ready for school with your friends from ABC for Kids. In this collection of episodes go to school with Daniel Tiger, Gaspard and Lisa and the gang from Yo Gabba Gabba! So many more adventures too. $9.95 Available from: ABC KIDS

Hammie Goes to School is an easy book to read out loud to your pre-schooler and also a good book for those learning to read to read out loud. RRP: $24.95 Available from: MumsDelivery.com.au/market

Sight Word Games to encourage learning

Learn to Write Numbers with Leapfrog LeapReader. Mr Pencil teaches kids how to write numbers 0-9 and practice early Maths concepts like skip-counting and backwardcounting. Read the review here.

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Back to School Checklist Childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Name: __________________________

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MAKING BACK TO SCHOOL A BREEZE It goes without saying that new experiences such as starting school can be a bit overwhelming for children. A new environment, new faces and a new routine can make it difficult for kids to identify, understand, express and control their feelings. For parents, the process can be just as tough, and helping your child navigate through it is at the best of times, a minefield. As parents, it’s important to ensure open communication with your child. Here are some strategies to implement to best deal with those back to school worries: • Make sure your child settles into a good routine. Getting enough sleep and eating well are crucial to helping little ones into a new environment and creating stability. Promoting good morning and bedtime habits, as well as healthy and nutritious meals and snacks for your child, ensures their everyday needs are well catered for. • Problem solve Instead of blindly saying to your child, ‘Everything will be fine!’, why not create some scenarios and brainstorm some solutions together? For example, ‘If (example) happens, what can you do?’ This provides your child with the tools he/she needs to cope with unexpected or difficult situations. • Promote positivity Instead of focusing on the new or challenging aspects of going back to school, redirect your child’s attention to the positives. Asking them about what they love most about their new class, friends or teachers, or what gets them excited about school, is a good starting point. If they’re finding a particular aspect challenging, encourage them to persevere by highlighting the benefits they will gain. • Encourage your child to share their feelings Let them know it is perfectly normal to feel scared and encourage them to come to you to share whatever’s on their mind. A great tool for this is the Kimochis…Toys with Feelings Inside range , designed to help children identify and express their emotions. The Nesting Heart character, a velvet smiling heart nestled within a palm size ‘holding’ heart, is best used for periods of separation anxiety. When your child leaves for school, they can take with them the removable nesting heart, leaving behind the receiving, waiting outer heart with you. Clip the heart to your child’s backpack to feel close throughout the day.

Homework - Helping set good habits As a new mum to the schooling life I found the ‘School’ experience somewhat overwhelming, especially the process of undertaking homework in the afternoons. Now the sad thing with all of this is that my daughter actually likes homework and wants to do it. I do think in Kindy that it is a bit early for Homework, however I agree with setting good habits and want to help her with it, yet some days we get busy doing other things and I simply forget. In some ways, I want to blame life for being too busy;. In addition to my 5 year old I have a just 4 year old and a baby, so let’s face it –some days I am doing well simply to be parked and at the school in time for drop off and pick up! Yet that doesn’t excuse me and it really isn’t a good way to set an example for the remainder of her school years. Homework provides a number of benefits for your children so the importance of developing and following a daily homework routine is important. Benefits of Homework: • Extending the skills learned in class to the home environment • Creating and building good work ethic • Involving the parents in the children’s learning process • At a later age, homework will help your child to understand time management and stress in coping with deadlines. Here are some tips on how to develop a routine encouraging your child to not only do their homework, but also to excel at it. When to do it Depending upon your child, they may wish to do the homework straight away and get it out of the way or later after they have unwound and had a play. Determine what works best for you as a family. Really active children may need a break to let off some steam before they sit down again, while those that are tired may need to get it done right away before they become over tired and upset by it. If your child struggles to do homework then you may want to stop them from watching TV or playing on the computer until they do the homework so that the TV or computer games act as a motivator. Where to do it Help your child create a special space for their homework time. This could simply be through clearing a spot next to you at the Kitchen table or by giving them their own desk/area specifically for their homework items. Special pens or pencils may help to convert a reluctant child. How to do it As the parent helping with the homework, you will achieve a greater result if you can dedicate the time to that child and their needs. Switch off the computer, phone and other distractions and focus solely on them, watching their minds learn while internally they are proud to show you their abilities or can easily ask you for help if needed.... Read the rest of the article and find out what to do when on Struggle Street here

Lunchboxes

Tupperware Sandwich Keeper Plus Available in blue and pink Keep the school ground rubbish free, using these handy containers that help support the nude food philosophy. Four compartments hold a sandwich and three snacks. Cover may be removed for dishwashing. AUD $33 Available from: Your local Tupperware Rep Tupperware Lunch Bag set: Includes: 1 x Lunchbox with removable divider 1.25L. 1 x Kids Sports Bottle 415mL 1 x Insulated Bag to keep food cooler. Separate pouch designed for the drink bottle on the side of the bag. Available in Pirate Treasure & Magical Fairy Princess Designs. AUD $64 events spills. Available from your local Tupperware Rep

Tupperware Sandwich Keeper Duo Available in Blue/Green and Pink/Coral Eliminate plastic wrap or bags. One-piece design so that you never lose a lid! RRP: AUD $32 Available from: Your local Tupperware Rep

EnviroChill Chiller bags Small and large insulated bags to keep snacks and lunch cool until required. Two patterns Stripes & Apple Blossom, or five plain colours in the large size â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Black, Navy, Aqua, Red & Green. RRP: Small $12.99 & Large $15.99 Available from: www.envirotrend.com.au

Insulated Lunch Box With a clean, modern feel and a palette of retro-inspired designs to suit every taste. These fully insulated lunch boxes can be worn back pack or messenger style for hands free adventure outings. Comes with a leak proof insulated insert for easy cleaning RRP $34.95. Available from: www.mygreenlunchbox.com.au

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Flip Lid Lunchbox A fun new lunchbox for 8yrs+. Features 6 compartments to keep food â&#x20AC;&#x153;squash freeâ&#x20AC;?, unique double sided design with room for recess & lunch. Designed by an Aussie school mum. RRP: $24.95 Available from: www.fliplid.com.au

Smiggle Konnichiwa Bento Lunchbox A small Bento snackbox with removable comparents inside. RRP$16.95 Available from: Smiggle

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Smash Cute Bow Cold Box A single compartment Insulated Lunch Case. Store your food and drink together in one area. Its convenient size fits perfectly in your school or work bag, while its insulated materials helps keep food and drink cooler for longer. The Cold Box comes in a range of fashionable designs and colours. RRP: $12 Available from: BIG W

Flip Lid Cooler Bag Your lunch will look and stay cool in a Flip Lid cooler bag. Made from quality neoprene they are machine washable. Available for Pre-Order with expected delivery late January (TBC). RRP: $20.95 Available from: http://www.fliplid.com.au/buyflip-lid/

Square Coolpod Cooler Lunch Bag. What makes our range of lunch cooler bags so different to any other lunch cooler bags in the current market is the non toxic, coolant soft ice bags permanently concealed inside all sides for maximum insulation and efficiency . RRP: $14.95 Available: MumsDelivery Market

Spencil lunch bags Spencilâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s neoprene lunch bags are washable, with a zip closure, and come in many designs for boys and girls. RRP: $12.95 Available: www. spencil.com.au

Eco-friendly Fluf lunch and snack bags pack all of the things you want in your kid's lunch, and none of the things you don't. Made with 100% certified organic cotton with original illustrations your kids will love, features include - snap closures (easy for small hands!), preshrunk and fully machine washable (with a wipeable, water-resistant lining, for easy rinsing between washes). It's never been easier to pack a rubbish free lunch in designer cute snack and sandwich bags! Sandwich Bag $23.95 Snack Bag - 2 pack $19.95 Snack Bag - Single $9.95 http://www.mygreenlunchbox.com.au/54-fluf-organic-cotton-lunch-and-snack-bags

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Sinchies Lunchbox Kit The Sinchies Lunchbox Pack includes everything you need for back-toschool: Nude Food Movers Rubbish Free Lunchbox. Sleek and stylish the Nude Food Movers Lite Lunch is the perfect, understated option for taking your lunch to school or work. RRP prices from $13.99 Available from: All major retailers

Fridge-to-go Medium Lunch Bag The Fridge-to-go Medium Lunch Bag stays cool up to 8 hours and keeps food fresh and bacteria-free for a full day away. RRP: $35.95 Available from: www.fridge-to-go.net.au Find national stockists listed here. Summer TABLE has your ‘back to school’ chaos covered, with over 100 recipes for fast, delicious and healthy meals for every night of summer. Every recipe has a QR code - a quick scan creates a shopping list on your mobile phone, to make summer meals times a breeze. RRP: $34.95 Available from: Big W, independent bookstores nationwide, online at www.hellotable.com.au

• 5 x 140ml reusable pouches • 5 x 200ml reusable pouches • 1 x 1 litre reusable pouch • 5 x reusable sandwich pouches • 5 x reusable snack bags RRP: $29.99 Available: www.MumsDelivery.com.au/market

Lunchbox Tip Add a little citrus juice to cut apples to prevent browning

View all our great Lunchbox Recipes

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A selection of Yummy Lunchbox Recipes Visit MumsDelivery for more Fish Cakes

Bacon, Tomato and Onion Frittata Great for the whole family or a yummy fast meal for one. Make mini versions in muffin trays for school lunches instead of sandwiches. Prep time||5 minutes Cook time||30 minutes Total time||35 minutes Serves||4 Ingredients: • 10 eggs • ½ cup milk or cream • salt and pepper • 6 bacon rashers, chopped • 1 tablespoon olive oil • 1 red onion, finely sliced • 100 g cherry tomatoes • 1 handful basil, chopped (optional) • 30 g parmesan cheese, grated Preheat oven to 200C. Grease a 20 cm × 20 cm ovenproof dish. Lightly whisk eggs, milk or cream, salt and pepper in a bowl or jug and put aside. Heat frying pan over medium heat. Add bacon and cook for about 4 minutes until slightly crisp. Add oil if pan is dry and add onion. Cook for 2–3 minutes, stirring until onion softens. Combine onion, bacon, tomatoes and basil in prepared dish, pour egg mixture over the top, sprinkle with cheese and cook in oven for 30 minutes. To check if it is ready, give it a wobble or touch the top in the centre of the dish. If not set, give it another 5 minutes and check again. Allow to rest for 10 minutes before cutting.

Just the thought of these Asian inspired fish cakes makes my mouth water. They are so quick and easy to prepare, and served with fresh crisp cucumber make for a delightful summer meal. The kids love them too as they are not too spicy. If you prefer a stronger flavour, add a chopped fresh red chilli. Perfect for party finger food, but make sure you make a lot as they go fast. Prep time||10 minutes Cook time||10 minutes Total time||20 minutes Serves||4 Ingredients • ½ bunch coriander, stems and leaves • ½ tablespoon chopped ginger • 2 spring onions, chopped • 2 garlic cloves, chopped • 1 lemongrass stem, chopped • 3 tablespoons chilli jam or sweet chilli sauce • 1 tablespoon fish sauce • 800 g salmon or firm white fish • 100 g green beans, finely chopped • coconut oil • 2 Lebanese cucumbers, ribbons • ½ tablespoon sesame oil or mirin • sweet chilli sauce to serve • lime wedges to serve Separate coriander leaves and stems and wash well. Retain leaves for serving. Place the ginger, spring onion, coriander stems, garlic and lemongrass in a food processor and blend until ingredients are finely chopped. Add chilli jam and fish sauce and blend again until the mixture becomes a smooth paste. Add the fish and pulse until combined into a fine mince. Stir in green beans and, using a tablespoon to measure, shape fish cakes using wet

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Vietnamese Chicken Noodles Serve in a plastic noodle box for a bit of fun. Prep time||10 minutes Cook time||0 minutes Total time||10 minutes Serves||4

hands. Heat coconut oil in a frying pan over medium–high heat, then shallow fry in batches, cooking for 2 minutes each side or until cooked through. Remove from frying pan and drain on paper towel. In a bowl, toss cucumber ribbons with sesame oil or mirin (or a bit of both) and coriander leaves. Serve fish cakes with the cucumber, sweet chilli sauce and wedges of lime. *** For extra favour, toss the fish patties in sesame seeds before frying.

Ingredients: • 100 g vermicelli rice noodles • 400 g cooked chicken, shredded • 1 Lebanese cucumber, julienned • 1 carrot, julienned or grated • 1 red capsicum, sliced • 2 handfuls bean shoots • 4 spring onions, thinly sliced • 1 handful mint leaves, chopped • 1 handful coriander leaves, chopped • 1 long red chilli, deseeded, and chopped (optional) • 1 handful peanuts, roasted and chopped Dressing • 6 tablespoons lime juice • 2 tablespoons soy sauce • 2 tablespoons fish sauce • 2 tablespoons sesame oil • 2 garlic cloves, crushed • 1 long red chilli, deseeded, finely chopped (optional) • ½ tablespoon honey (optional) Place noodles in a bowl of boiling water. Allow to soften for 3–5 minutes, then drain and rinse with cold water. Drain thoroughly. To make dressing, shake ingredients in a jar until combined. Taste and adjust to your liking. In a large salad bowl, mix chicken, cucumber, carrot, capsicum, bean shoots, spring onion, mint and coriander leaves. Add dressing and toss to coat. Then add softened noodles and gently toss to combine. Sprinkle with chilli and chopped peanuts.

Recipes taken from the Summer Table cookbook 11

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When you’re a growing kid, a healthy snack helps you get through a long day of play. Snacking on healthy foods throughout the day helps to keep little brains alert and little bodies filled with energy to burn! These playful snack ideas encourage healthy snacking. The best snack foods for growing little people contain fruit, vegetables, breads and maybe even some dairy, like yoghurt or cheese. Not only are these kinds of healthy snacks tasty to little ones, but they are also nutritious and filling too.

Fun playful ideas for snacks: Butterflies Fill a seal lock bag with grapes, pretzels, rice cracker snacks, cut up apple, berries, sultanas, then snap the center with a painted peg and butterfly ears.

Fun Lunchbox Idea In the lunchbox use silicone patty pans to house mini pockets of healthy foods – include beans, mini carrots, tomatoes, celery, cucumber, strawberries and berries.

Face Sandwich

In the lunchbox use silicone patty pans to house mini pockets of healthy foods – include beans, mini carrots, tomatoes, celery, cucumber, strawberries and berries.

Banana Wrap

Wheat tortilla, butter, banana, chia seeds, Sliced strawberries, eating jam or jelly. Grain sweetened chocolate chips or carob chips, and honey.

Flowers

Cut out flower shapes with bread, add different types of cheese, use silicone patty pans for mandarins, cut up apples, add a strawberry or grape to the center and add celery and lettuce and a stem and leaves. These tips are brought to you by Woddlers. Woddlers provide super durable backpacks and lunchboxes with unique Australian designs, the range is available online and selected stockist nationally.

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10 non-sandwich lunchbox fillers Not sandwiches again? Are your kids tired of a sandwich every day in their lunch boxes? Here PlanBuyCook gives you ten ideas for lunchbox fillers, and loads of snack ideas to keep your kids going during the day that are easy to pack.

Top ten lunchbox ideas 1. Quesadillas 2. Savoury muffins 3. Mountain bread with cream cheese, grated carrot, cucumber and ham, or hummus, ham and cucumber 4. Sushi, or inari pockets with steamed rice and diced cucumber. You can find inari pockets in Asian food stores 5. Tuna and corn patties 6. Felafel – either on their own or in a wrap or pocket bread 7. Kibbeh, kofta or meatballs 8. Store-bought pork buns 9. Ravioli or tortellini (veal or vegetable). Cooked and cooled without sauce 10. Leftover chicken wontons, chicken satay sticks or chicken nuggets.

Snacks to include

• Muesli bars • Fresh fruit that is easy to hold and not messy (e.g. apples, grapes, strawberries, pears, mandarins, nashi, melon, etc.) • Vegetables (carrot sticks, cherry tomatoes, cucumber sticks) • Banana cake • Muffins • Boiled eggs • Sliced ham or salami • Dried fruit • Savoury scrolls • Cheese cubes (so much cheaper than store-bought cheese sticks) • Yoghurt (best for cooler months) • Savoury biscuits with butter or favourite savoury spread • Homemade biscuits or cookies.

Tips:

• Putting two vegetable serves into the lunchbox means you only need to serve two or three at the evening meal. • Leftovers are great for lunchboxes if you have them, so cook an additional serve or two of the evening meal. • If including meat items, add a mini freezer gel pack in a snap lock bag over the hot months to keep the lunchbox cool. • Any all-in-one lunchboxes are good for kids who tend to leave containers at school. See the PlanBuyCook iPad app at appstore.com/planbuycook for great recipes you can scale to your family size, and an easy planner to get your cooking schedule on the right track. Visit planbuycook.com.au for more great food ideas.

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drink bottles

Tupperware H2O On-The-Go Bright fun colours that will inspire you to drink more water! Break the throwaway habit with these durable, reusable bottles. Square profile for convenient stacking on the fridge shelves. 1L set of 4: Au$56. 500mL set of 4: AU$32. Available from your Tupperware Rep Kathmandu Sip n’ Snack Drink Bottle Perfect for a recess snack, this colourful water bottle features a cup in its base, ideal for housing fruit or a morning tea sweet treat. RRP: $25.98 Reg Available at www. kathmandu.com.au

Cheeki Green Owl 500ml Stainless Steel Bottle. Cheeki is Australia’s favourite brand of healthy, BPA premium stainless steel bottles, coffee mugs, flasks and more. Available at www. cheeki.net.au and all good Health Stores, Pharmacies, Howard Storage World and more. RRP $15.95.

Costume Aluminium Drink Bottle Guaranteed to turn heads at the playground. They don’t break when dropped, are light and easy to use, BPA free and good for your health. Available in Batman and Superman. RRP: $14.95 each Stockist: Spotlight and EB Games Smash’ Stealth Bottles 750ml The perfect accessory for keeping hydrated and are a great alternative to disposable water bottles. Our drink bottles are an everyday must for school, sporting activities or if you’re simply out and about. The ergonomic designs come in range of sizes and colours. RRP: $3 Available from: Officeworkds

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ecococoon insulated drink bottles ecococoon have a great range of leak proof, condensation free and insulated drink bottles and accessories. Perfect for back to school and every day use! RRP: starting at $29.95 Available from: www. ecococoon.com.au Product Image: 600ml Daisies

Smash Tritan Wide Mouth w/ Ice bottle 750ml Combine functionality and fashion to deliver drinking solutions that not only looks good, but also are 100% practical. Available with removable freeze sticks. RRP: $8.99 Available from: Woolworths

Kathmandu Kids SS Drink Bottle Made from stainless steel, this water bottle helps keep kidsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; drinks cool even in warm weather. It attaches easily to kidsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; backpacks and is dishwasher-safe, making life easy for mum! RRP: $29.98 Available at www. kathmandu.com.au

Water Bottle Tip: Add ice blocks or freeze your waterbottle in the hot summer months to keep the water cool for your kids

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Bags & Backpacks Colour Pop Drawstring Bag Great as a drawstring library tote, shoe bag, or to carry your swimming gear. 41cm tall x 34.5cm wide RRP: $16.95 Available From: Smiggle stores and online

PAKitToMe Back packs Durable polyester backpack which folds back into its own pocket for easy storage. Features two drink bottle holders, front pocket and keychain. Small size available in the Hawaiian collection, large in the Stripes & Apple Blossom. RRP: Small $15.99 & Large $24.99 Available from: www.envirotrend.com.au L채ssig 4Kids Mini Backpack Wildlife The L채ssig Wildlife Backpacks are the perfect size for curious pre-schoolers with a variety of animals and designs available. The collection is made from 100 percent polyester and the materials are free of PVC, nickel, azo dyes, cadmium and phthalates. Each piece is durable, functional and eco-friendly too! For stockists: www.lassig.com.au

The Optari backpack is destined to be the coolest pack at school this year. It features two large internal compartments, one large internal pocket, pens pockets, side net pockets, and a front panel for collecting our new Mini Fobbz collection. Available in six colours. RRP: $29.95 Available from: MumsDelivery Market

Geo Premium Backpack Our super functional backpack is back, as practical as ever with 7 zipped compartments, padded laptop compartment, pocket organiser, zipped drink bottle compartment, adjustable shoulder straps, media pocket with soft protective lining and headphone port. RRP: $69.95 Available From: Smiggle stores and www. smiggle.com

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Smart Stuff Library Bag This generously sized Library Bag is perfect for school, kindergarten or maybe just to keep that special book safe. RRP: 13.95 Available from: www.mumsdelivery.com.au/market Spencil sports bags These clever drawstring bags come with adjustable straps and front zip pocket, in designs for boys and girls. They are perfect for your swimming lesson gear, sports gears and even sleepovers! 39cm x 49cm. RRP: $14.95 Available: www.spencil.com.au

Smiggle Konnichiwa Bagtag A perfect accessory and stocking filler for any childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s bag. RRP$5.95 Available from: Smiggle

Cross Cut Back Pack Backpacks with the best designs and the latest materials so the kids can have the Smash attitude without compromising comfort or support. RRP: $15 Available from: Officeworks

Smiggle Konnichiwa Backpack The awesome backpack comes with a computer compartment (fits up to 15inch laptop), padded adjustable shoulder straps, carry handle, 4 zipped main compartments, main double zip, dual drink bottle sleeves and protective lining 300x420x180m. RRP$44.95 Available from: Smiggle

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Stationery

Awesome Rock n Roll Pencil Case Comes in an assortment of fun designs with contrasting binding and zip colour. Large compartment with additional pen slot storage indie inner flap which velcros down to close. Dimensions 22 x 9 x 8cm. RRP: $14.95 Available From: Smiggle

Spencil ball pen and zoo eraser set This cute Spencil stationery set contains 10 skinny ball-point pens and five collectible animal erasers. RRP: $12.95 Available: www.spencil.com.au

Pink Poppy Carnival Penicil Case Hot Pink JHX-403A A large size for fitting in a 30cm ruler. The Carnival design features carnival animals, trapeze artists and more in a cute bright pink pencil case. RRP: $12.95. Available from: www.pinkpoppy.com.au

Awesome Backpack Pencil Case Cool backpack shaped pencil case that can even be wrapped around an A4 book. Dimensions 22 x 14.5 x 4cm RRP: $19.95 Available From: Smiggle stores and www. smiggle.com

Smiggle Konnichiwa Pencil Cases Start the new school year with these awesome Konnichiwa pencil cases. With various styles and designs to suit your needs. Red = Heads Up Pencil Case RRP$16.95 Green = A4 Pencil Case RRP$15.95 Available from: Smiggle

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Tono- Under Water World Utilities Case JIA-403. This large pencil case features two pockets and the ability to click into folders. RRP $15.95 Find out more: www.pinkpoppy.com.au

Smash Wetsuit Pencil Case Designed to house all your stationery essentials and to secure your contents, Smashis sure to have the right pencil case for you. Available in Med $5 and Large $8 Available from: Coles

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books & diaries Spencil school book covers Spencil’s non-toxic PVC slip-on book covers come in three sizes (A4, exercise, scrapbook) and dozens of designs that coordinate with Spencil’s other back-to-school bags, pencil cases and more. RRP: From $2.25 Available: www.spencil.com.au WAFF Books have a unique rubbery surface that feels and looks fun and trendy. A6 size is perfect balance between writing surface and portability. 120 pages of 80gsm lined paper. Clips can be moved and repositioned anywhere on the WAFF book. Great for kids, tweens, teens and adults, it is a unique gift. Available from MumsDelivery Market for only $12.99 - Save 13%

Someone Who Loves You Another confidence-inspiring story for young readers by Steven Schuback. This book follows a young elephant on his first day of school and the unique way his mother instils confidence in her son by explaining that "someone who loves you” is always close by. A perfect book for the start of the new school year with stunning illustrations. RRP: $9.95 Available from: www.stevenschuback.com

Bullies Don’t Rule! That is the message every child should understand. This book is a collection of short stories about bullying, written by a 10 year old kid, for other kids and their parents. $15 Available from: www.mumsdelivery.com.au/market

Click here for our Tips for School Books

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snacks

Mother Earth Baked Oaty Slices Mother Earth Baked Oaty Slices are made with the goodness of wholegrain oats and contain no artificial colours or flavours. Individually wrapped, they are ideal for lunchboxes and come in nine delicious flavours. RRP: $3.99 for a pack of six individually wrapped slices Available: Coles & Woolworths

eezy fruitz organic banana eezy fruitz are a tasty, healthy and convenient alternative to fresh fruit. Delivering a rich and flavoursome experience, without anything else added, so you can take your serving of fruit anywhere! RRP: 1.99 Available: www.eezyfruitz.com

That!™ Dairy Snack For parents it can be challenging to find healthy snacks that kids actually want, but with each pouch of That!™ Dairy Snack has as few calories as an apple, calcium for strong bones and being packed with the goodness of Aussie milk, it really is easy to say yes to That!™. RRP $1.89 Available from Coles and Woolworths

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school wear

SPLASHitToMe ArtSmock Lightweight, completely waterproof, made from the same fabric at the SPLASHitToMe raincoat. Simply wipe or wash clean. Four colours, sizes S (2-4), Size M (5-7) Size L (810). Folds away into its pocket. RRP: $19.99 Available from: www.envirotrend.com.au

SPLASHitToMe Raincoat Lightweight, completely waterproof, made from high quality nylon. Folds away into its pocket to store back in the school bag. Seven colours, sizes 4, 6, 8, 10 & XS (adult) fits the 12-16 year group. RRP: $29.99 Available from: www.envirotrend.com.au

Stubbies Flat Front Skort The Flat Front Skort looks smart and like a skirt while giving the girls the cover gained from shorts. UPF 50+ On Sale: $19.95 Available: mumsdelivery.com.au/market

This art smock features a coated front panel to protect against paint, glue etc but still has the soft feel of fabric. Available in sizes from 2 to 12/14 it is sure to delight any young artist ... and keep their clothes clean too. Easy to use with no buttons, velcro or elastic. Machine washable. RRP: $29.95 Available from: MumsDelivery Market

Stubbies Short Sleeve Polo Sports Shirt Made from Polyester/Cotton, 215/230 gsm. UPF 50+ Endorsed by SunSmart Under arm venting Reinforced twin needle stitching On Sale: $13.95 Available: mumsdelivery.com.au/market

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Schoolies Ponytail Holders with Bow Available in a number of different colours and styles the Schoolies products are the perfect school time accessory to add a little fun to going to school. Exceptional quality hair accessories in school friendly colours & designs, metal- free and fantastic for creating fun school styles without damaging the hair and at a great price. RRP: $4.45 Available: www.thebeautyoffice.com.au Stubbies Schoolwear Active Pant Made from COTTON/ELASTANE, DYED JERSEY,235GSM. Featuring: UPF 50+ Protection Endorsed by SunSmart Cross Side Front Overlap Waistband Bootleg Hem with 2 needle cover stitch Stretch fabric On Sale $19.95 Available: mumsdelivery.com.au/ market

XTENEX â&#x20AC;&#x201C; the lace of genius! Xtenex elastic laces have a series of knots to enhance footwear fit, comfort and performance through its many advantages. Xtenex laces converts laced shoes into a perfect fitting slipon - NEVER TIE SHOELACES AGAIN! RRP: $19.95 Available Online at www.xtenex.com.au

Junior Apron Features Velcro fastener. Made from lightweight, wipe-clean material. Colours may vary. Measures 45 x 66cm long and 108cm from sleeve to sleeve. RRP: $9.90 Available from: www.cleverpatch.com.au

BACK TO SCHOOL SALE! Stubbies Canvas Cargo School Shorts Ideal for little boys with the cargo pockets making them cool, while the canvas makes them tough. Made from Polyester/CottonCanvas, 190gsm. On Sale: $16.95 Available: mumsdelivery.com.au/market

30-50% off

Stubbies Schoolwear www.mumsdelivery.com.au/ market

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Shoe Business XTENEX – the lace of genius! Xtenex elastic laces have a series of knots to enhance footwear fit, comfort and performance through its many advantages. Xtenex laces converts laced shoes into a perfect fitting slipon - NEVER TIE SHOELACES AGAIN! RRP: $19.95 Available Online at www.xtenex.com.au

Shoezooz Shoe Labels Shoezooz educational shoe stickers are a shoe label and instructor all in one! Shoezooz are durable vinyl stickers adhered inside the shoes. One half of the sticker is the front of a cute animal, the other half is the rear and tail - the simple animal puzzle is complete when the kids line up the left and right shoe, RRP: $7.50 a packet (free shipping) Available from: http://tiptoeandco.com.au/ product/shoezooz-toddler-shoe-stickers/

Clarks - Cross Hype Washable Sneaker Machine washable technology means your child’s shoes can be cleaned in the same way as their uniforms. The Cross Hype is the latest ‘sporty’ addition to the Clarks school shoe range. RRP: $79.95 Available from: www.clarks.com.au

Clarks - Sawyer School Shoe The latest addition to the Clarks school shoe range is hard-wearing, for kids who like to run, jump and play. Durable and hard wearing, the Mighty Tuff range is made from resilient scuff-resistant leather. RRP: $124.95 Available from: www.clarks.com.au

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Click here for tips when buying school shoes Clarks - Daytona School Shoe Clarksâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; number one selling school shoe. A smart, classsic lace up school shoe that is available in 184 sizes! The flexible, snug fit, ensures comfort. RRP: $124.95 Available from: www.clarks.com.au

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Tech21 iPhone 6 Classic Frame with Impact Shield screen protector self-heal The Classic Frame is slimfitting and wonderfully minimalistic, allowing for access to all features of your device, so you can experience ultimate impact protection without adding any excess bulk. RRP: 29.95 Available from: https://www.tech21.com/ iphone-6-cases

Tech zone

Buhbo Tablet Sleeve The memory foam exterior with a soft microfiber interior lining provides a comfortable home for your iPad. Comfortably covers the iPad, iPad 2, the new iPad 3 and other 10â&#x20AC;? Tablets. RRP: $54.95 Available: MumsDelivery Market

Super Hero USB Flash Drives Protect your precious files with these super cute 8GB flash drives! Available in Batman, Superman, Wonder Woman and The Joker. RRP: $14.95 each Stockist: Electronic retailers

r ASUS Eeebook X205 This light 11.6 inch notebook comes with an Intel quad-core processor so your child can easily transition from one task to the next. With up to 12 hours of battery life thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s no need to plug in and charge up during class. Stylish and unique the Eeebook comes in four colours including black, white, gold and red. This device is also bundled with Microsoft Office Home and Student. RRP AUD$329. Available from Harvey Norman and JB Hi-Fi. Read our review of it here

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w Kogan Portable External Hard Drive Data transfer is quick, with lightning fast speeds of this portable storage device. With 1TB of space, fast USB 3.0 interface, and compact built, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s perfect for carrying to school. RRP: $79 (was $90) Available from: Exclusively from Kogan.com, with free shipping

DocuPrint CM225 fw Keep up with the technology demands of study with the new DocuPrint CM225 fw from Fuji Xerox Printers. Clever technology allows easy connectivity to wireless and mobile devices to help students print from multiple devices. RRP: $405 Visit www. fujixeroxprinters.com.au for a list of resellers

Win a Fuji Xerox DocuPrint CM225 fw Win!

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Tech21 iPhone 5 Impact Mesh (Clear) with AntiGlare Impact Shield screen protector Lined with scientifically proven shock absorbing D3O® material, the Impact Mesh offers advanced impact protection. Transparent and smooth it provides premium protectionRRP: $39.95 Available from: https:// www.tech21.com/ protective-iphone-5-cases

Smiggle Konnichiwa Media Pouch Protect your valuable media items with this funky stylish media pouch. Available in a range of patterns for boys and girls. RRP$14.95 Available from: Smiggle Fujifilm Instax SHARE Instax SHARE is the most exciting twist on the instax camera to date. Combining the old school art of instant photos with modern technology, you will never print a less-than-perfect photo ever again. It prints your photos straight from your Smartphone or tablet so that you can immediately share with your friends. PRP: $309 Available from: Harvey Norman, JB Hi Fi, Target and all good camera retailers. ASUS Transformer Book T100 Ultraportable Windows tablet comes with a detachable keyboard. Use it for typing or as a touch-screen device. Lightweight and compact. Bundled with Microsoft Office Home and Student, making it a great cost effective option. RRP $599. Available now from Harvey Norman, JB Hi-Fi and Dick Smith.

Spencil iPad/tablet sleeves Made of washable neoprene, Spencil’s iPad/ tablet sleeves are perfect for 11” devices. They come in various designs that coordinate with the rest of the back-to-school range. RRP: $12.95 Available: www.spencil.com.au

KaZoo cases by Griffin Technology Griffin's KaZoo cases are not only extremely cute but will ensure your child's phone is well protected. Available for iPhone 5 and Samsung Galaxy S5, your child can now carry a little of the zoo with them wherever they go! RRP: USD $24.99 Available from: http://store.griffintechnology. com/kazoo?case_collections=1015&p=1

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labels

It’s Mine Label STARTER PACK Cant Decide? Need a little of everything? Try the Starter Pack. With over 200 labels and includes pencil labels, iron-on labels, small and large waterproof labels, shoe-dots and a bagtag. RRP: $39.50 Available from: It’s Mine Labels http://www.itsminelabels.com.au/ ProductDetail.aspx?p=14 Avery Kid’s Labels Avery Kid’s Labels are a fun and costeffective way of labelling everything from school books to pencil-cases, folders, lunch boxes and uniforms. Choose from a range of sizes and colours. RRP: From $5.99 - $9.99 per pack Available: exclusively at Officeworks: www.officeworks.com.au

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Tips for purchasing a Student Computer Computers are an integral part of everyday life and this has transferred down into the School Syllabus to become a key learning component from a very young age. Programs such as Mathletics and Bug Club starts as young as Kindergarten, and for parents, this can create issues around computer requirements along with the need to provide increased security for your children. Whilst many parents may believe that it is unnecessary to purchase a laptop for their children until they are in high school, we have found that the issue has become prevalent in our household with a year 1 child. We have a laptop (for my work) and an iPad (not compatible with Mathletics) so we fell into a situation where we were looking for a new computer specifically for homework. Whilst my daughter could use my laptop, I am too scared that something will happen: perhaps she deletes an important document or replies to an important email in gibberish. So we looked at purchasing a family ‘homework’ computer. Originally we purchased a used mini laptop that was very slow and lasted no longer than a month as when the lid was closed strongly it messed up the hard drive. So we headed to the computer store wanting a decent computer that didn’t cost too much (Original budget $400). After purchasing and returning our purchased laptop it became apparent that buying a computer, even if only for homework, needed more thought and was harder than originally thought. As computers are a high cost item, getting the right computer (the first time) is important. Our tips when buying a computer for student or school use. • Check with your school for minimum requirements, recommended configurations or compatibility issues. • Does the school have a preference between Mac or Windows PC? Tablet or Laptop?

• Pick a portable size. 11-14 inch laptops are ideal for transportation as they are not too heavy to carry. • Find out about the processors within the computer as this will affect the speed of the computer • Most computers include a WiFi ability however it is best to check this as it is important when connecting to a home or school network. • Don't skimp on memory (RAM) – 4GB is a good rule of thumb for laptops. • Storage Capacity is important. Aim for a minimum storage capacity of 64GB • Look for computers that offer a battery life that will last throughout the school day so that it can be charged at home overnight. • Find out if the computer comes with Microsoft Office software, otherwise this is an additional expense you will need to include in your budget. Tips to keep your child’s Computer Safe • Ensure your anti-virus software is up to date. • Set up parental controls for web browsing • Get a storage case or padded cover to keep the laptop/tablet secure in transit. • Label your laptop/tablet and its peripherals clearly. Getting your computer engraved offers a safe permanent way to label it. • Keep track of the computer serial number just in case. • Look into theft recovery software options to find and track a lost or stolen computer. This article written by Lorraine Salvi, Busy Mum of 3 and founder of MumsDelivery

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Preparing for the new school year: printing tips for enhanced learning Today, students of all ages are challenged with increasing study demands which puts even more pressure on parents to equip the home with technology. With wireless and cloud-based learning tools expanding from the classroom to the home, many students are juggling multiple devices to assist them with their study, wireless connectivity is no longer an option but a necessity. The ability to print from anywhere from any device gives students increased flexibility when studying at home, and scanning and copying to cloud based applications will help take student learning to even greater heights by digitalising documents to send directly to cloud based applications. The start of the school year is a good time to take stock of your study environment and prepare for the year ahead. The benefits of printing applications are often overlooked but they can include a range of features and applications that can support a streamlined and organised study environment. Get the most from your home printer with these study tips from Fuji Xerox Printers. Set aside a designated study area that is quiet, well organised and equipped with everything needed for optimal study. A spacious desk that has room for a computer monitor and printer is essential. Draws and shelves for storage will also help keep the study area organised. Proofread final drafts on a dual sided print out, as opposed to the computer screen, to help better identify spelling and grammar mistakes and ensure page layout and fonts are consistent. Proofreading may save valuable mark deductions so read documents thoroughly and always give eyes a rest by taking short breaks to avoid skipping over familiar text. If possible, ask someone else to proof read the

document as they may identify things that may otherwise be overlooked or alternatively try proofreading the document out loud. Set up mobile printing for convenient printing from any device, without the inconvenience of having to transfer work between a computer and mobile devices. Print homework or an essay from a laptop, an assigned reading from a tablet or photos from a school excursion directly from a tablet or mobile. Scanning is one of the most overlooked and under-utilised tools for students. Scanning will provide a digitalised version of documents such as worksheets, study notes and class tests that can then be stored for easy reference ahead of exams. Parents can also help children prepare for exams by scanning a PDF of a class worksheet, blanking out the answers, then reusing the worksheet as a practice test. Embed projects and assignments with hand drawn charts and pictures, that can then be scanned as a JPEG file and then added to a document. Likewise, pictures from books and magazines that arenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t found online can be scanned and added as visuals. Print a backup of any important assignments or reports. Having a paper backup of a draft version of document can be a lifesaver if the computer file is accidently deleted or corrupted. The backup copy can then be scanned and saved as a text file. Print common learning or reference templates such as times table grids, grammar rules, or fact sheets and pin them somewhere prominent. This can be a useful study prompt ahead of an upcoming test and a regular reminder to quiz yourself each day. For more info: www.fujixeroxprinters.com.au

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Interesting News.... University Produced Educational App for 8-12 year olds Monash University has launched MWorld, the world’s first comprehensive, university-produced educational App for children. A year in the making, the MWorld app takes the power and credibility of university-generated content to 8- to 12-year-olds – well known as a highly discerning audience. MWorld uses stunning graphics and multimedia, lively narration and an engaging game system to make learning irresistible. MWorld is unique in the breadth and diversity of the material, covering the natural world, early civilisations, the modern world, art and music, and much more. “We’re putting MWorld to the test in schools across the country so teachers can incorporate MWorld into their learning programs and drive engagement with learning and literacy,” said Monash University’s Justin Bokor, creator of MWorld. “We’ve had declining standards of reading literacy for more than a decade now, according to OECD data – but we can turn this around. As JK Rowling has shown, write good content and kids will flock to it in droves.” Quality content and storytelling is everything in MWorld. Topics include ‘Fangs – How Do Animals Eat?’, ‘Early Australians’, ‘Sleep and Dreams’, ‘How to Write a Song’ and many more. Each topic is authored by a well respected academic, then brought to life by a talented team of designers, film producers and young Australian narrators. The iPad version of MWorld is available now in Australia and internationally, with Android and web versions scheduled for release in 2015. MWorld can be previewed at discovermworld.com/ amazing-world MWorld is free to download and includes five free titles, with other titles available for purchase. Parents, teachers and schools wanting a copy of MWorld can download it from the Apple App Store.