The best products for a gorgeous room, nursery or playroom
Get outdoors and enjoy this Autumn weather!
Welcome to the Autumn issue of the Alphabet Street mini mag ! This issue has been a little slow in the delivering due to Alphabet Street taking on a new look (did you notice and do you like?) and a fabulous Mother’s Day Promotion which is nearly coming to an end. Two of our biggest changes and competitions happening within the same month. I can hear you saying are you crazy? Well yes, after the month I have had I can concede that yes I probably am. But who wouldn’t do something if you didn’t love it...right? This month we have included an interiors feature for your viewing pleasure. With a special article by Interior Designer Belinda Nihill from Nest Design Studio, you will be able to pick up some tips creating your own interior designs.
The mini mag wouldn’t be a mini mag without a fashion spread and what gorgeous Autumn/Winter clothes there are hitting the stores as we speak. We haven’t even scratched the surface with what is on offer this year. A big thank you to Emma from My Book Corner who has written a wonderful article on her Top Five books to snuggle up with. We hope you enjoy this Autumn issue! Penny Price OWNER
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“I am a modern lifestyle portrait photographer with a passion for people and photography which really is perfect for what I do! I love capturing the soul and spirit of you and your family and creating those memories that last a lifetime. I love capturing those candid moments you never knew were taken.”Newcastle Photographer Kylie Mitchell is owner of two fabulous photography Businesses; Heart in Motion Photography for kids and families and Spice Photography for women.
Belinda Nihill is a Melbourne based an interior designer specialising in nursery and children’s rooms , mum to two boys and owner of Nest Design Studio. Nest can help you by designing a room created just for your little one, no matter where you live in Australia
Emma Perry is owner of My Book Corner, a website that reviews only the very best in children's literature, alongside live price comparison
Mini Mag www.alphabetstreet.com.au
Editorial: Penny Price
All editorial and advertising enquiries e:info@alphabetstreet.com.au ABN: 89826197104 Photography: Heart in Motion Photography
COVER: Our Model Alex wears Pudding and Pie Catch & Throw Check Shirt and 'Hopscotch Jeans'
Alphabet Street Privacy Statement: This issue of the Alphabet Street Mini Mag may contain offers or competitions that require you to provide information about yourself if you choose to take part in. If you provide information about yourself including email address, Alphabet Street will use this information to provide you will the products and services you have requested. We will not onsell you details to a third party and will used for our publication only. 4
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For the Diary Kids Space
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We Heart Handmade
DIY Interior Design 23
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Cool, Cute & Quirky It’s Showtime
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Adorn the Walls with Lasting Memories
Autumn Fashionista 38
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Five Books to Snuggle up with 49 Autumn Fun 5.
For the Diary... THERE IS ALWAYS SOMETHING HAPPENING AROUND THE CITY FOR KIDS. MAKE SURE YOU CHECK OUT SOME OF OUR FAVOURITES HAPPENING OVER THE NEXT COUPLE OF MONTHS!
May
The gorgeous wares from hand picked stallholders return to Magnolia Square for this three day event. Grab your market basket and head to Malvern Town Hall to find exquisite and unique items for your mum for Mother’s Day. Magnoliasquare.com.au
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The Dog Lovers Show is a world-first event that will encapsulate the friendship and unconditional love that we share with our self-proclaimed ‘best friends’. Dog lovers will be entertained and educated with a range of interactive opportunities including a Puppy School, Breed Showcase and Rescue Dog Adoption Zone and lots more. www.dogloversshow.com.au
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Whether you’re a renovator, foodie, DIY or craft lover, gardening or interiors addict, you won’t want to miss Better Homes and Gardens LIVE. Kids are catered for with a dedicated kids zone. www.bhglive.com.au
Tweet. Tweet. Tweet. The Three Little Birds Market is back with a gorgeous selection of stallholders. If you are looking for something original, homemade or unique..this is the market for you. www.piccadillymarket.com.au
The new exhibition ‘Monet’s Garden’ opens at the NGV on the 10th May. Bring the kids along to NGV Kids on the 11th where they can immerse themselves in Monet’s Garden with hands-on workshops, exhibition labels and mobile tags that bring to life the magic of Monet. www.ngv.vic.gov.au
Family Classic Concerts at the MSO are a wonderful way to introduce your little one to the world of Orchestral Music. Families will listen to the wonderful story of The Happiness Box, a story written for Changi Gaol’s child prisoners in 1942 which will also be accompanied by narration and music. www.mso.com.au
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The Mother's Day Classic is an opportunity to do something active and fun on Mother's day, while remembering those who have been affected by or who are living with breast cancer and raising money for breast cancer research. Register your interest at mothersdayclassic.com.au
Take a ride on a model steam train and see historic vehicles in action at Scienceworks Machine in Action family fun day. The whole family will love seeing these amazing vehicles on display as they parade past. The steam train rides will top the day off. Museumvictoria.com.au
National Simultaneous Storytime returns on the 22nd for its 13th year. Head to your local library at 11am to hear this year’s story, The Wrong Book’ by Australian author Nick Bland alia.org.au
June Join the Culture Mamas this month in an interactive gardening workshop at the Fed Square Pop Up Patch with the passionate green thumbs of the Little Veggie Patch Co. Culturemamas.com.au
Celebrate chocolate in all its diverse and delicious forms at this one-day festival at the Immigration Museum . Join the Belgian, Mexican, Portuguese-speaking and other communities in Victoria to talk, taste and enjoy all things chocolate. Museumvictoria.com.au
The Willy Lit Fest is back for another year celebrating 10 years of words and ideas. One of the best children’s authors, Andy Griffiths, will be helping celebrate at the 10th Birthday party. Stay tuned for the full program to be released. www.willylitfest.org.au
Docklands welcomes winter on Saturday 1 June with a family fun day embracing the breeze with free kite-making workshops and other children's activities. Destinationdocklands.com.au
The Light in Winter brings together local and international artists, designers, architects, filmmakers and multicultural groups in a free, month-long program of light sculptures, talks, events, workshops, performances and the much-loved Solstice Celebration fedsquare.com
The Little Big Shots International Film Festival returns for another year screening the world's best films for kids, about kids, and some even by kids. This event will screen 80 short films over a four day period. Littlebigshots.com.au
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Head to the National Gallery of Victoria for 75 minutes of discovering the gallery and Messy fun in their Little Art Lovers: I can do...program. There’s something new every session and today is called I can print bubbles. Suitable for ages 3–5 years www.ngv.vic.gov.au
Baby Love Music Fun's interactive concerts for babies and toddlers return to the Salon with a fun-filled concert about our favourite pets. Join opera singer Melanie Maslin and her team as she leads you through key musical and movement activities for your little one melbournerecital.com.au
Families are invited to this year’s annual Bonfire in the paddock at Collingwood Children's Farm. A spectacular event with Fire Performers, Children’s Lantern Parade, Giant Lanterns, Food Stalls, Mulled Wine, Bar, Wandering Minstrels and more. Farm.org.au
All board! The Snow Train returns for another year where you will take a trip to the snow in a wonderful old steamtrain. The first stop is Moe where passengers can choose from a couple of options including skiing, or tobogganing , Winery tour or just a leisurely train ride. Steamrail.com.au
Kids Space Struggling to theme your nursery, bedroom or playroom? We have some ideas that will turn any room into a gorgeous kids space.
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Wall Art Ubabub - Dotty Myfirstroom.com.au RRP $269
Leander Change Table glicksfurniture.com.au RRP $1199
MASKROS Pendant lamp ikea.com.au RRP $149
Rainbow Pillow petit.com.au RRP $65
Contemporary
Eames Rocker Replica Blue www.glicksfurniture.com.au RRP $99
Serendipity Slumber Pod belbambinokids.com.au RRP $149 Large Ball Garland multicolour incyinteriors.com.au RRP $54 Giraffe Zzzoolight Lamp bubbabling.com.au RRP $118
Ubabub POD Cot lillylolly.com.au RRP $1899
Little Lamb Felt Ball Rug thelittlekidzcloset.com.au RRP $399
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Alimrose Summer Floral Bunting motherslove.com.au RRP $39.95
Traditional Pixie Baby Lamp in Aqua petit.com.au RRP $80.00
Mo-ma Glider Nursery Chair bubbabling.com.au RRP $29.95
Whimsical Girls Hedgehog Bird Wall Art Print 8 x 10 madeit.com.au/thewhimsicalbird RRP $14.00
Pippa 3pc Nursery Set morstor.com.au RRP $29.95
Sophie Elizabeth Cot Blanket Katelaurendesigns.com.au RRP $139
Mamas and Papas Orchard sleigh cot childsmart.com.au RRP $899.00
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Vintage Bunting etsy.com/shop/MerryGoRoundHANDMADE RRP $29.95
Crochet Border Blue Blanket vintagebaby.com.au RRP $40
Pink and Turquoise floor matt ladedahkids.com.au RRP $150
Vintage
Cot Size Patchwork Quilt- Pink Floral fabrikstore.com RRP $88.00
Large Tumble Girl naughtsandcrosses.bigcartel.com RRP $45
Ubabub Nifty Timber Cot lillylolly RRP $1199
rocking egg chair incyinteriors.com.au RRP $999
Peacock Plumage Wall Decal lovemae.com.au RRP $79.95
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reese cot incyinteriors.com.au RRP $599
Mushroom Clock by Decolab moosaidthecow.com.au RRP $89.95
Sweet Birdie Wall Hook moosaidthecow.com.au RRP $7.95 Bunny Nightlight cradlerock.com.au RRP $14.95
Tilly in full swing wooden wall silhouette downthatlittlelane.com.au RRP $49
Whimsy Schmooks bunny in glasses wall decal thewallstickercompany.com.au RRP $79.95
Little Woodland Toadstool Lights larkmade.com.au RRP $24.95
Flat Out Frankie - Little Bedside Toadstool littlemelittleyou.com.au RRP $49 Alimrose Cot Quilt – Reversible Floral & Pink Stripe larkmade.com.au RRP $24.95 Delaney deer ladedahkids.com.au 13. RRP $60
Thinking Swing Circus White naughtsandcrosses.bigcartel.com RRP $320
MiniTipi Play Tent Supertrooper Sudio RRP $299
Watermelon Chalkboard Paint Kit tmod.com.au RRP $29.95
Playrooms Learn to Write Set Chalkboard forwallsdecals.com RRP $39.95
Navy Freckles Bean Chair lelbys.com RRP $99.95
Bugrugs Car Track Interactive Play Rug thelittlekidzcloset.com.au RRP $249
Play Table & Chairs petit.com.au RRP $329
Cooper Canvas Print Storage Tub Dinosaurs mor-stor.com.au 14. RRP $49.95
Personalised Canvas Stars and Stripes tinyme.com.au RRP $39.95
Bright Star Cot Blanket jacobandbonomi.com.au RRP $84.95
Red Plum Linen Single Duvet-Stripes redplumlinen.com.au RRP $176
Stars and Stripes Bunting twocharlies.com.au RRP $30.00
Sirocco Single Star Hook littlelinen.com.au RRP $17.53
Stars and Stripes round floor cushion redplumlinen.com.au RRP $150
Star Bookends Wooden - Penny Scallan myfirstroom.com.au RRP $49.95
Stripe Lampshade petit.com.au RRP $66
Lilly & Lolly Star Bookcase thelittlekidzcloset.com.au RRP $1250
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Tiger Tribe Bird Mobile babyroo.com.au RRP $34.95
Childs Peacock Chair Pink thefamilylovetree.com.au RRP $399
Paper Doll Magnetic Board downthatlittlelane.com.au RRP $59.95 Chandelier Fawn Art Print downthatlittlelane.com.au RRP $25
Pretty in Pink Whimsy Kids Floret Square Cushion littlelinen.com.au RRP $29.95
‘Gotcha’ Pink Lampshade littlellighthouse.com.au RRP from $69.95 "Strawberry Heaven" Cot Blanket lambykins.com.au RRP $139
Hibou Home Gymkhana Girls Wallpaper Coral Pink thelittlekidzcloset.com.au Millie Monkey RRP $180 ladedahkids.com.au RRP $55
Fabrik Ballet Pink Cot Sheets fabrikstore.com RRP $120
Marshmallow Felt Ball Rug for Girls happyaslarrydesigns.com 17. RRP $399
Chompa Handmade Crochet baby girl afhgan blanket RRP $95
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Scallop Bunting Henry’s House RRP Small $45 Large $55
Windy Day girls dress Down That Little Lane RRP $60
SOME THINGS ARE JUST TOO NICE NOT TO MENTION Children's Wall Art -Little Cat Illustration Nomuu RRP $20
Organic Cotton Knottie Sleep Suit Fable Baby RRP $59
Pink Nounou Soft toy rabbit in pajamas fleece Down that Little Lane RRP $40
Bunny Coat in Pink or Blue Naughts and Crosses RRP $175
Daddy Buy Me a Pony ♥ Nursery Mobile Birdynumnum RRP $150
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DIY INTERIOR DESIGN I
BELINDA NIHILL FROM NEST DESIGN STUDIO GIVES YOU HER TOP TIPS FOR DECORATING A CHILDS ROOM. n the last few months I’ve had
a huge influx of clients wanting help designing their little ones new ‘big boy/girl’ room. Whilst it’s nice to design a nursery that can stand the test of time and see a transition to the big boy/girl room, I have found that parents are really wanting to inject the personality and likes of their little ones.....and that means a new room and a big bed! So when the time comes to start thinking about your little big ones room, what should be on your list to consider? •What is your child’s personality? Are they always happy and bubbly? Add bright colours to their room to match. Are they a serious little one? Perhaps they love learning? Use a more traditional colour scheme and add elements that spark their mind. •What does your little one love? For me, I have 2 little boys that love tractors. So now that I’m preparing their big boy room, there can be no question that
some tractor elements will be used in their room. That does not mean that everything in the room will have tractors on it! Speaking of the above, it’s great to use a theme to give you a starting point BUT there is no need to go overboard! I know there are some themed rooms that make me shudder (you know the ones that have a car shaped bed with a car doona cover and car prints on the wall). It is easy to incorporate a subtle theme within the decor without using it on every element in the room. Ask your little one what they would love in their room. What colours do they want to use? It might sound like an interesting combination, but try and include it somewhere in the room. Maybe some cushions? Think about longevity. By this, I mean in terms of furniture. Pieces that you can be confident that they are going to see your child out for a long time. Keep them neutral which will allow the look of the room to change very easily in the future by
simply changing linen and prints etc. Now that I’ve given you some basic things to think about, where do I recommend you start shopping? My favourite place is Etsy. You can find unique pieces that can be customised and personalised and don’t cost the earth. Another fabulous source is Down That Little Lane. Designing little ones rooms is fabulous, so have lots of fun and create a room that your little one loves to play, dream and sleep in!
Belinda Nihill is Owner of Nest Design Studio -online interior design studio specialising in creating beautiful rooms for beautiful babies and children, throughout Australia and New Zealand!
Images sourced from Nest Design Studio, Two Ellie, Apartment Therapy and Daffodil Design.
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ADORN THE WALLS WITH LASTING MEMORIES HOW DO YOU KEEP ALL THE ARTWORK YOUR LITTLE ONES CREATE? ARTROOMS HAS COME UP WITH A WONDERFUL WAY OF KEEPING THOSE MEMORIES ON SHOW.
Like most parents, we tend to
hold onto everything our little ones create. From their first drawing at home to the plethora of artwork they create at school, there just aren’t enough tubs to store everything. ARTROOMS has come up with a fabulous way of preserving and presenting your children’s artwork than just sticking it on cupboard doors or pin boards. Karen Tiibb, part owner of ARTROOMS chat with us about how ARTROOMS evolved.
What was the inspiration behind the Artrooms Brand? ARTROOMS: The inspiration behind ArtRooms was not just to organise the kids art work but to present it. To stop it piliing up in a box and get it out and up in the house for the family to enjoy. I thought I would frame a few pieces but there were too many pieces that had special memories and
I got together with my husband (art director) and friend Martine (picture framer) and we nutted it out and decided if we made a collage we could put in as many pieces as we liked! Can you briefly describe what Artrooms does? ARTROOMS: We know its hard to organise everything in the house so we have tried to make it as easy and stress free as possible. ArtRooms will send to the customer an empty box. This box is pre-paid and addressed back to us. So you just put all your art in the box and drop it at the post office. We then scan each piece of art. The art is then sent off to a design agency in Melbourne. The designers will then work on the collage layout. Then its off to production (Martine) to print and frame. The finished piece is then delivered to your door with the box of originals. DONE! Tick one more job off the list!
What is the process involved in ordering a collage? Ordering is done all on line. You can browse through our product list and once decided then move to the ordering page. Its pretty straight forward from there and once your order is through you will receive a confirmation email and your box will arrive shortly after.
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What has been the hardest thing you have had to conquer so far? ArtRooms launched winter 2012. It was two years in the making. We had to make sure we had our product to the best possible standard. That our ordering process worked and was smooth. We workshopped and workshopped and researched and developed and redeveloped the product many times until we were at a standard and offered a service that we were all very happy and proud of.
Best tip for balancing work and family lives? To work at both as honest as I can. There is no perfect balance, its just head down and
work hard. Look after my children and my customers as best I can and make sure I have a good laugh along the way. My kids will learn I’m not perfect but they will know I tried hard! Prices start at $240 for an 8 image fully framed collage and go up to $680 for a 48 image collage. They are all available as portrait or landscape and are all purchased fully framed with your choice of frame.
of the country your can order online at www.artrooms.com.au This is the perfect gift to order for mum or Nan this Mother’s Day and as a special offer ARTROOMS is offering 30% off all collages using the PROMO CODE BESTMUM. This special offer is only available until the 3rd May.
Due to popular demand ARTROOMS will also be offering Poster Prints in 9, 16 & 20 images very soon. If you are a Victorian you can catch ARTROOMS at various markets across Melbourne including Mathildas Market & Magnolia Square but for the rest
Enter alphabet street at the checkout to receive 15% off all Mooky shoe designs Valid until 1/7/13
Cute sophistication
Autumn Fashionista AUTUMN IS DEFINITELY HERE AND IT’S TIME TO TRANSITION INTO SOME WARMER ITEMS OF CLOTHING. COVERING UP DOESN’T MEAN YOU CAN’T HAVE A FASHIONABLE LITTLE TOT Photography: Heart in Motion Photography
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FROM LEFT: Ella wears Daisy & Moose Retro Winter Roundneck Top RRP$38 and Olive Retro Shorts RRP$38. Mooky Glitter flat RRP $69.95 Alex wears Daisy & Moose Olive Jersey RRP$39 & Olive Winter Cargos RRP$46 Mooky Navy Driver RRP $74.95 Matilda wears Purple India Skies Jersey Bubble Dress RRP$42 and Mooky Gliiter flats RRP $69.95
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Alex wears Dandelion FLYNN Striped Cardigan NAVY RRP $49.95 Daisy & Moose Charcoal Boys Pants RRP$44 Mooky Navy Driver RRP $74.95
Matilda wears Dandelion CAPUCINE Fine Knit BLUSH RRP $19.95, Dandelion LANA Cord Jeans TOBACCO RRP $64.95, Mooky Silver Moccasin RRP $64.95
Ella wears Dandelion LOREN Long T shirt RRP $24.95 & Dandelion LANA Cord Jeans TOSCA RRP $64.95
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Raindrops keep falling on my head.. .
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Ella wears Overcrawls Strawberry Fields Jacket RRP $59.95, Overcrawls Cherry Red Gumboots RRP $34.95
Alex wears Overcrawls Blue Stars Jacket RRP $59.95, FAWN & FOX Red Bergstein Gumboots RRP $59.95
OOBI umbrella available from Jolie RRP $19.95
Matilda wears OOBI Fruit Tee Pink Pear RRP $34.95, Dandelion LANA Cord Jeans in Red, Overcrawls Light Blue Gumboots RRP $34.95
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Matilda wears Pudding and Pie Iris in the Autumn dress $49.95 and Mooky Black Moc-Croc moccasin $69.95 Alex wears Pudding and Pie Hopscotch Chalk Jeans $39.95, Boy & Whistles long sleeved tee, $29.95, Marbles cardigan $29.95 and Trihla shoes $59.95
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Ella wears The Splice Dress in navy/pink from Hootkid RRP $39.95
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Matilda wears Doodlebug Long Sleeve Kracken tee RRP $34.95 & Kids hipster tights, blue stripe RRP $34.95
Matilda wears Doodlebug Mila Pinafore Dress, Blue elephant RRP $49.95 & Kids hipster tights, blue stripe RRP $34.95
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Matilda wears OOBI Luella Navy Dress RRP $59.95 & Annie Red Dot Shirt RRP $39.95
Alex wears OOBI Cameron Cardigan Olive RRP $44.95, Beanie & Scarf Set Green Stripe RRP $39.95 & Daisy & Moose Denim Winter Cargos RRP$46
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Cool, Cute & Quirky THERE ARE SO MANY COOL, CUTE OR QUIRKY PRODUCTS AND SERVICES FOR KIDS ON THE MARKET AT THE MOMENT. WE HAVE LISTED SOME OF OUR FAVOURITES
SHWING SHOE WINGS
Dress up a boring shoe with Shwings Shoe Wings. Tie on the wing shaped accessories for a bit of wing bling. Your little one will be the envy of all their friends with these ultimate accessory for your footwear! Available from Naughts and Crosses. RRP $14.95
MAKEDO BOX PROPS FACES
Box Props Faces kits encourage kids to invent unique and imaginative Monsters, Pets, People or Robots. Use the connectors and props on everyday box such as a cereal, tissue or shoe box to make an endless combination of characters. Available from Makedo
HANDBAG BPA FREE TEETHER
CURIOUS KIDS PORTRAITS
TIMBER & TAMBER RAIN BOOTS
FUNKY ELEPHANT KITS
Jellystone Designs has created a fun way to help your baby teethe with a range of BPA free teethers. Little girls can never have too many handbags. These adorable teethers come in 2 great fashion forward colors for little girls who were born with style. Available from Rudy and the Dodo. RRP $14.95
These French Bow Rain Boots definitely have to fall into the cute category. May be too nice to play in those muddy puddles but a gorgeous accessory to autumn and winter fashion. Available from Timber & Tamber
What a unique and fabulous concept! Send pictures of your little one to Curious Kids Portraits where they will then superimpose your child straight into a beautiful storybook portrait. A little piece of artwork you will cherish forever. Prices start from $140. Available from Curious Kids Portraits.
Subscribe to Funky Elephant and every month your child will receive a trunk full of interesting projects to complete! Watch them get creative and learn through craft, activities, role play and fun projects! See more at Funky Elephant.
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FELT FOX MASK
A perfect addition to any dress up box. This gorgeous mask is hand stitched and also available in bear, owl and rabbit. Available from Down to the Woods RRP $29
FINGERNAIL FRIENDS
Fingernail Friends are a set of 25 tiny character stickers in assorted sizes for your child's finger nails. Available in two different designs - farm and zoo animals. Available from Cool Things and are priced at RRP $6.96
KIDQUOTER APP
CHERRY SCRATCH & SMELL T-SHIRT SESAME STREET SESAME ROAD Sesame Road is a fun filled remake of the famous album by the Beatles, performed by the “Sesame Street Beatles”. This cute CD includes versions of our favorite songs, including ‘Let it Be’, which has been cleverly changed to ‘Letter B’, while ‘A Little Help From My Friends’ has been altered to ‘A Little Yelp From My Friends’. ABC Music RRP $14.99
Scratch the print and then smell the fruity scent. Available in sizes 2-6 and in other fruity scents Available from Smellies RRP $26.50
CHOCOLATE BED TOPPINGS The sweetest dreams are had sleeping inside a giant Sleepyhead Chocolate Bar. Snuggle in amongst happy sleeping chocolate and pull up your chocolate wrapper doona cover. Available from Bed Toppings RRP $185
KidQuoter is a simple, fun way to capture the innocent, loving, and hilarious musings of your child so you never forget them. The KidQuoter app turns those quotes into stylish, personalized images featuring your child's face, name and age. Switch out backgrounds and costumes to make each image unique, and then share the quote on Facebook Available from itunes for FREE
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It’s Showtime.....
EVERYONE LOVES A LIVE SHOW AND THERE ARE PLENTY OF FAMILY FRIENDLY CONCERTS COMING TO TOWN OVER THE NEXT COUPLE OF MONTHS. CHECK OUT WHAT’S ON SALE NOW!
June
July
WHAT: YO GABBA GABBA! LIVE! GET THE SILLIES OUT! The sillies are crazy little creatures that live inside of us and need to be shaken out! DJ Lance Rock and everyone’s favourite cast of colourful characters from Yo Gabba Gabba! are calling fans to get ready to jump, shake and shimmy the sillies out when they bring their new live tour Yo Gabba Gabba! LIVE! Get The Sillies Out! to Melbourne and Sydney in June. WHEN: Saturday 8 June 2013 WHERE: Palais Theatre, Melbourne COST: $29.90-$79.90
WHAT: Room on the Broom Based on the award winning picture book by Julia Donaldson & Axel Scheffler, published by Macmillan Children’s books. A witch & her cat are flying happily on their broomstick with some new friends - a dog, a bird & a frog. But this broomstick’s not meant for five and CRACK! the broom snaps in two! When a hungry dragon appears, who will save the poor witch? And will there ever be room on the broom for everyone? WHEN: Tues 2nd-Sat 6th July WHERE: National Theatre St Kilda COST: $26
WHAT: Disney On Ice presents Princesses & Heroes Enter a world of wonder where heroes and hearts prevail when Disney On Ice presents Princesses & Heroes tours Australia this winter. This spectacular ice production featuring eight of our most loved Disney Princesses and their devoted Princes, with breathtaking skating, daring acrobatics, high flying jumps, and lovable Disney friends is just a wish away! WHEN: Thurs 4th-Mon 8th July WHERE: Hisense Arena COST: $25.50-$74.50
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WHAT: Sesame Street Presents Elmo's World Tour The Sesame Street gang have circled the globe and now bring this popular musical show back to Australia by popular demand! Abby Cadabby, Big Bird, Grover, Zoe, Cookie Monster and Elmo use the letters of the alphabet to navigate a voyage through imagination that sees them visiting China, Zambia, France, India and Australia! WHEN: Fri 5th July-Sat 6th July WHERE: Her Majesty’s Theatre, Melbourne COST: $24.90-$64.90
WHAT: The Fairies I Want to be a Princess Concert Rhapsody is a beautiful fairy but she has a dream. She wants to be a Princess! All of her fairyland friends want to help make their fairy friend happy. Wizzy conjures up some crazy spells; Elf teaches some very Princessey dances; Barnaby gathers sweet nectar to make the perfect Princess Potion while her best friend, Harmony, brings all of the helpful ideas together. A gorgeous production from The Fairies combining so many favourite things into one hour-long show! WHEN: Tues 9th July WHERE: The Playhouse Theatre Geelong Performing Arts Centre COST: $23.90
WHAT: Possum Magic After 30 years in print, more than 20 years on stage and seen by over 500,000 patrons, in 2013, POSSUM MAGIC will tour Australia wide to over 40 venues, for the VERY LAST TIME!Featuring larger than life size puppets and a cast of multi-talented performers, the story of baby Hush, the little possum, has been stylishly embellished into a rollicking all Australian Musical – complete with lamingtons, pavlovas and vegemite sandwiches. WHEN: Thurs 18th-Fri 19th July WHERE: National Theatre St Kilda COST: $25.50
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Chilli Fitted Pyjama Set rubeandharri.com.au RRP $44.95
Lilac Marle Spotted Nightie huckleberrylane.com.au RRP $42.95
Kiki the pink Giraffe long john pants pyjama set iamsnugalicious.com RRP $48.09
Grey Marle Soldiers huckleberrylane.com.au RRP $42.95
Snooze Time Get snuggly in the best winter pyjamas available for kids
Max Navy with White Stars fourinthebed.com.au RRP $49.95
One piece baby suits zipmeupbaby.com RRP $14.95
Hatley winter senior kids pyjamas Blue Stripes with dog logo planetpyjama.com.au 44. RRP $34.95
Sausage Dog Longjohn snugglebum.com.au RRP $39.95
elk pyjama set cocoomeorganicsleepwear.com.au RRP $44.95
ALEXANDRA Flannelette Pyjamas hasaknapp.com.au RRP $39.95
FIVE AUTUMN BOOKS TO SNUGGLE UP WITH EMMA PERRY FROM MY BOOK CORNER SHARES HER TOP FIVE BOOKS TO SNUGGLE UP WITH YOUR LITTLE ONE THIS AUTUMN. warm toasty fire, snuggly slippers, a cup of cocoa and a pile of perfect books. Heaven! As the nights begin to drawn in, and the air becomes just a little crisper, nothing beats delving into the magic of a carefully crafted picture book. Have fun browsing My Book Corner’s top five recommendations to help keep you feeling warm and fuzzy this Autumn. 1. Bear Has A Story To Tell Erin Stead, Ill. by Philip Stead Before bear goes to sleep for the winter he really, really, wants to tell his friends his story. As he visits each one in turn, he finds them busy with their own winter preparations, and being the kind bear he is ... he gives each one a helping hand.
He even tucks in Frog 'under a blanket of leaves and pine needles' *sigh* ... but will he ever get to tell them his ever so important story? Through Erin's illustrations and Philip's narration, the reader absorbs so much about the passing of the seasons and the need for animals to prepare in their own way. The subtlety of this ever so gentle, ever so lovely, picture book is to be commended. Read the full review and compare prices here.
2. Ten Tiny Things Meg McKinlay, Ill. by Kyle HughesOdgers Tessa and Zachary’s shiny, clean green ‘machine’ breaks down which means they have to do the very thing they thought would NEVER happen ... walk to school. ALL the way! Aching legs gradually turn into legs that hum with a ‘walking tune’ as they begin to notice lots of lovely tiny things mere dots from the comfort of their machine.
Ten Tiny Things is a fabulous picture book from Meg McKinlay whose narrative is full of creativity, brought to life by those engrossing illustrations. The deceptively simple storyline encourages its little readers to take note of all the little things that surround them - you'll be walking every where after devouring this one! Read the full review and compare prices here 3 Today We Have No Plans Jane Godwin, Ill. by Anna Walker For all those who love pyjama days .. this one is for you! Today We Have No Plans is a delightful picture book which oh so effortlessly captures family life with young children. Weekdays are frantic for so many households. Swimming lessons to get to, school lunches to prepare, notes to sign ... and then the weekend comes. As Sunday comes around the pace
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slows significantly both for the character in the book and for us as readers. The narrative meanders along beautifully and encourages us to explore the little things in life, featuring Anna Walker's stunning illustrations - whimsical and full of nostalgia, with a delicate attention to detail that children adore. Read the full review and compare prices here. 4. I Dare You Not to Yawn Helene Boudreau, Ill by Serge Bloch I Dare You Not to Yawn. No really! I do. When you open this deliciously clever picture book, turn the pages ... you ARE going to yawn. At some point, at least once ...before you reach the end Boudreau's wonderfully fun narrative is a brilliant spin on the
normal bedtime story. Pertaining to be a 'how to avoid bedtime' story, well, it actually turns out to be the exact opposite. Those delicious, warm descriptions of those pesky yawns as they start creeping up on you, are just too accurate!
This is such a fun, clever picture book. You are going to adore it. Read the full review and compare prices here. 5. The Selfish Giant Oscar Wilde, Ill. by Ritva Voutila This book is something special. I adore this story. Delving into the classics provides a powerfully rich source of enchanting literature for young readers. Never more so, than with The Selfish Giant. The timeless
tale of the giant, who builds a huge wall around his garden to prevent the children from playing there. Whilst the seasons change in the village, Winter remains dominant in the giant's garden until a mystery visitor shows the giant the right path ... Its focus on the seasons, and its beautiful descriptions of nature, make it perfect for Autumn as we become more aware of nature’s ability to change. Immerse yourself in the beauty of Ritva Voutila’s mesmerising illustrations in this recent edition of a much loved classic. Read the full review and compare prices here. Emma Perry is a freelance writer, reviewer, and founder of the popular My Book Corner, a children’s book review and price comparison website..
Just because the temperature changes doesn’t mean the fun stops. Get inspired this Autumn with these fun activities.
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Get Outdoors Autumn has to be the most under-rated season of the year. With crisp nights and warm days, it’s the perfect season for getting outdoors and enjoying this Autumn weather while it lasts. 1. Kite Flying
When the Autumn winds arrive, take the opportunity to grab your kite and head to the best park or location that has a south westerly aspect to get your kite high above. You can buy a cheap kite from a $2 shop or if you are up for a challenge, click HERE for a set of instructions for building different styles of kites.
3. Rockpooling
The sea may be getting too cold for a dip but the rockpools are still warm enough to stand in to explore the sea life who live there. Along with small fish and small crabs, children can investigate the sea anenomes, starfish, coral, shells, sea grass and sea sponges that sometimes fill the small pools. Check out the wonderful rock pools at Ricketts Point, Red Bluff , Point Gellibrand, Point Lonsdale , the Rock Pool Sorrento Ocean Beach and The London Bridge Portsea Ocean Beach.
2. Nature Trails
Autumn is the perfect time to head into nature with the kids for a number of reasons. The temperature is perfect, the insects are diminishing and the other bush animals that may pose a threat are less active. The Botanical Gardens in Melbourne and Cranbourne are the obvious choice of nature walks with paved walkways, interactive Landscaped gardens and a dedicated children’s space. Explore the untouched heathlands, wetlands and woodlands and walking tracks at RBG Cranbourne. SUGGESTED ACTIVITY- Head to the Alex Wilkie Nature Reserve on Sunday 19th May where you can enjoy a day out surrounded by Alex Wilkie's natural bushland with walks, picnic areas and rangers available for guided tours.
4. Get Walking
There is nothing better than getting outside and taking a leisurely stroll as a family. It’s healthy, free and gets the kids away from all electronic software which is all consuming. If you are unsure of where to go in your area check out Victoria Walks for some walking maps. SUGGESTED ACTIVITY- Grab the beloved pooch and the whole family and head out to Albert Park Lake on Sunday 19th May for this year’s RSPCA Million Paws Walk. This is a great opportunity to get fit and healthy whilst raising money for such an important event.
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5. Get Riding
Another activity that is great for the autumn weather. There are many wonderful bike tracks all over Melbourne that are family friendly. If you are looking for a longer bike ride check out the trails HERE or head to your local park for some smaller tracks. SUGGESTED ACTIVITY- Make a trip to the Kew Traffic School or the Essendon Traffic School where children can gain confidence and develop road safety skills, away from the dangers of our roads.
7. Get into the Garden
Just because we are getting into the cooler months doesn’t mean the kids can’t still get into the garden. There are plenty of veggies that will still grow over the cooler months. See suggestions HERE. SUGGESTED ACTIVITY- Join the Culture Mammas on the 22nd May for a delightful morning of mulch and merriment at the Little Veggie Patch Co Pop Up Patch at Fed Square. Get your hands dirty in the Fed Square Pop Up Patch with an interactive gardening workshop for both you and bub by the passionate and knowledgeable green thumbs at The Little Veggie Patch Co.
8. Pick Your Own Fruit
What a wonderful activity for children to be involved in. Pick your own fruit allow children to see how a fruit is grown and delivered to your table. Travel 40 minutes west of Melbourne to Paynes Orchards where Fuji , Pink Lady and Granny Smith apples are ripe for the picking. Open weekends and Wednesdays.
9. Get lost amongst Melbourne’s Maze Gardens.
6. Geocaching
What child doesn’t love a good treasure hunt? Geocaching is an activity that can involve the whole family, is outdoors and is free if you have a GPS. Geocaching is a hightech treasure hunting game played throughout the world by adventure seekers equipped with GPS devices. The basic idea is to locate hidden containers called geocaches outdoors using a GPS enabled device and then share your experiences online. For more information on where you can participate in Geocaching in Melbourne click HERE.
Autumn is the perfect season to lose yourself amongst the mazes in Melbourne’s best mazes. Try your hand at Australia’s largest Timber Mazes at Amaze ‘N’ Games in Wallington, lose yourself amongst the giant cyprus hedge at Hegend Maze or travel out to the Mornington Peninsula where you can spend a whole day amongst a number of different mazes at The Enchanted Maze Garden.
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