Alphabet Street Autumn Mini Mag 2013 Newcastle

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.

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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

To celebrate the close of Treasures of Newcastle from the Macquarie era, visit the Newcastle ART Gallery after hours for a range of great activities. Dress in your finest colonial costume, have your photo taken with Mrs Elizabeth Macquarie, and enjoy musical performances, extended café hours, guided tours and a range of art making activities for visitors of all ages nag.org.au

Grab your biggest market basket and head to the Junction Public School for this month’s Olive Tree Markets.

With Mother’s Day just around the corner this might be a great opportunity to pick up something gorgeous and unique for mum!

Theolivetreemarket.com.au

The Baby & Kids Market is back this month at the Newcastle Basketball Stadium.

A great place to find quality, pre-loved baby and kids goods, such as toys, clothes, prams and furniture .

There will also be FREE kids activities on the day.

Babykidsmarket.com.au

You’re invited to discover what’s happening in and around your neighbourhood at the Newcastle City Expo. While mum and dad are talking with the Lord Mayor and Councillors, the kids will be entertained by Blackbutt’s Critter encounter and a performance by the Youth Orchestra.

Newcastle.nsw.gov.au/cityexpo

It’s Mother’s Day so head to Hunter Valley Gardens for a day of spoiling.

Treat your Mum with an Indulgence Lunch or Family Picnic Hampers plus a Pamper Zone and fun for the kids! hvg.com.au

It’s almost 60 years since Dick Bruna first drew Miffy. Now fans will be delighted to know she will have her first movie. And it will be screening at Event Cinemas from the 11th May. Join Miffy, Melanie, Grunty and Snuffy as they go on a treasure hunt around the zoo trying to solve clues that their Mother & Father have left them.

Eventcinemas.com.au

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Families are invited to attend an afternoon of musical entertainment at the Tigers & Teapots CD launch- a new CD of educational music for children. The launch will include songs and games for children, featuring the Waratah Girls Choir and a free sausage sizzle following the launch.

Tigersandteapots.com.au

Ditch the car as today is Walk Safely to School Day! It’s a national event when all Primary School children will be encouraged to walk and commute safely to school. It is a Community Event seeking to promote Road Safety, Health, Public Transport and the Environment.

Walk.com.au

Are you looking for a local playgroup, neonatal class, parenting or fitness program? Head to the Just Kidding FREE parenting expo at the Lake Macquarie Performing Arts Centre on Thurs 30th May between 10am and 2pm. There will be FREE child restraint fitting on the day by Kidsafe.

Lakemac.nsw.gov.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 It’s Raid My Wardrobe’s 3rd Birthday and you are invited to celebrate with fabulous fashions, vibrant vintage, creamy cupcakes, gold recycling and lots of prizes.

Get there early to raid 45 stalls full of hundreds of high quality recycled women’s clothing, shoes, handbags and accessories for bargain prices Raidmywardrobe.com.au

Mix up looking with listening, singing, moving and playing!

Do-Re-Mi Music brings you the total artistic experience with exciting musical activities in response to the current exhibitions at the Maitland Regional Art Gallery.

Grandparents, parents and friends share the fun with littlies up to 5 years old.

MRAG.org.au

All Aboard! Coalfields Steam is an annual event held by the Richmond Vale Railway Museum to celebrate over 150 years of continuous steam on the Richmond Vale railway.

This event will run over the long weekend and include a number of activities for the whole family.

Richmondvalerailwaymuseum. org

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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

WHAT: THE NUTCRACKER - Moscow Ballet La Classique La Classique was founded in 1990 by its current director Elik Melikov, with their artistic ballet skill, lavish costumes and magnificent stage sets, the illustrious La Classique will take you on a journey back in time to a frost-covered, gas lit world to join Clara, her beloved nutcracker doll and the magician Drosselmeyer. A hugely enjoyable dance spectacular – perfect for ballet lovers of all ages.

WHEN: Wednesday 5th June WHERE: Civic Theatre Newcastle COST: $70-95

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 20th June-Sun 23rd June WHERE: Newcastle Entertainment Centre COST: $28.50-$74.50

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: Wednesday 26th June WHERE: Civic Theatre Newcastle COST: $24.90-$39.90

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July WHAT: Bugsy Malone Hunter Region Drama School follows the success of 2012’s production of Roald Dahl’s The Twits with their grand slam production of Bugsy Malone.

Packed with hoodlums, showgirls, and dreamers, this show is a sure bet for the whole family.

WHEN: Thurs 4th-Sat 6th July WHERE: Civic Theatre Newcastle COST: $25-$29

WHAT: The Wiggles Talking Off Tour The world’s most popular children’s entertainment group, The Wiggles, is heading out on the road to introduce their new team and will be coming to WA, SA, VIC, ACT & NSW on their national tour. After 21 years of entertaining children around the globe, it’s the beginning of an exciting new era for The Wiggles as they head out on their ‘Taking Off’ tour.

WHEN: Fri 19th July WHERE: Newcastle Panthers COST: $36.30

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: Tues 13th August-Thurs 15th August WHERE: Civic Theatre Newcastle COST: $15-$29

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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.

anenomes, starfish, coral, shells, sea grass and sea sponges that sometimes fill the small pools. Check out the wonderful rock pools situated between Newcastle Baths and Nobbys Beach.

SUGGESTED ACTIVITY- Book a spot into the WilderQuest rockpool warriors at Glenrock State Conservation Area where a Discovery ranger and the team from Waterwatch will help you get up close and personal with the creatures that live within the rockpools so you can see what really happens in this incredible environment.

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 Hunter Wetlands, Blackbutt Reserve are the obvious choice with paved walking tracks, but there are plenty of family friendly trails for you to explore and enjoy.

If you are a little more adventurous or have older children you might want to check out the walking trails at Glenrock Reserve.

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

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. Some easy walks for kids are the Harbour Foreshore, Nobby’s Breakwall and Merewether to Bar Beach Coastal Walk.

SUGGESTED ACTIVITY- Grab the beloved pooch and the whole family and head out to Morpeth Common 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 Newcastle that are family friendly. Some of our child friendly favourites are using the FREE parking at Lee Wharf on weekends and riding from there along the Foreshore to the Observation Deck or heading to Warners Bay Esplanade for the bike path that heads around to Speers Point Park.

The Fernleigh Track is great for confident riders as there are s few steep parts along the track that are great for bikes with gears.

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- To build confidence in the young rider take them out to the bike track at Speers Point Park or Maitland Park where they can have an introduction to road rules with traffic signs and a two way bike circuit.

7. 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 Newcastle click HERE.

8. Spotlight Tours

What a great time of year to learn about nocturnal animal. The mozzies are disappearing and the temperature is perfect to rug up and explore the nocturnal animals at Blackbutt Reserve or The Hunter Wetlands.

The spotlight adventures at Blackbutt will take you on a guided tour around the reserve and conclude with billy tea and damper served as you relax by the campfire after the walk.

Spotlight tours at the Hunter Wetlands occur on the 3rd Saturday of every month.

Join experienced guides as you explore the wilderness at the Hunter Wetlands.

Booking essential for both.

9. All Aboard

6. 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. Keep your eyes out for what’s happening at your local Bunnings Warehouse as they have regular kids gardening activities on weekends.

Our children have always been big fans of trains and the miniature trains at Walka Water Works in Oakhampton and at the Lake Macquarie Live Steam Locomotive at Edgeworth are a perfect Autumn activity.

With the track running alongside the lake at the Walka Water Works it can get a little chilly in winter, so with this gorgeous autumn days it is the perfect time to picnic.

The miniature steam trains at Edgeworth are always a popular family outing for the Newcastle and Lake Macquarie residents.

Pack a picnic or BBQ and enjoy this gorgeous weather while it lasts. Autumn is definitely the most under-rated season and to me the most perfect season of them all!

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