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 Fleur Robinson from Mrs Robinson, 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.
Mini Mag www.alphabetstreet.com.au
Fleur Robinson is mum of two and owner of Interior Design Business Mrs Robinson.
Emma Perry is owner of My Book Corner, a website that reviews only the very best in children's literature, alongside live price comparison
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 25
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Cool, Cute & Quirky It’s Showtime
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Adorn the Walls with Lasting Memories
Autumn Fashionista 42
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Autumn Fun
Five Books to Snuggle up with
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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
Babies Proms have been running for over 30 years at Sydney Opera House and remain the perfect introduction to live performance for children aged 2 – 5. Join stage legend Wayne Scott Kermond, with his zany, too-cool-to-be-true dance steps, as you learn about swing and meet the Babies Proms Big Band. Sydneyoperahouse.com
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
Fire & Rescue NSW (FRNSW) will hold its annual Open Day on Saturday 18 May 2013 with 226 fire stations across the State opening their doors to give visitors a personal glimpse into Australia's busiest fire and rescue service. Fire.nsw.gov.au
Writer Overnighter is a rare opportunity for children to meet an Australian children’s author and combine it with a sleepover inside the Powerhouse Museum! Capture the sights and sounds of the Museum after dark in an all nighter designed for fun, inspiration, storytelling and storymaking. Powerhousemuseum.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
Introduce contemporary art to children aged 3 to 5 years in this fun and dynamic workshop at the MCA. Explore a different theme every month through play-based activities, including storytelling, drama and art-making. This months ART SAFARI is Colour Clues. Mca.com.au
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The sun is up and it’s time to have fun and muck in to get the chores done! Help feed the chickens, collect the eggs, grind the corn, make the butter and pump the water. Then take home your well-earned tuckerbag at Rouse Hill House and Farm. HHT.net.au
Uncover the stories behind our tall ship HMB Endeavour replica in a day of family fun. Learn seamanship skills, build your own paper tall ship in Kids on Deck or take part in interactive performances and character tours at the Australian National Maritime Museum. Anmm.gov.au
The Million Paws Walk is the most important event on the canine calendar! You and your four legged friend will be treated to entertainment, displays, stalls, giveaways and a host of other activities. Millionpawswalk.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
Sydney will once again become a canvas of light, music and ideas when Vivid Sydney takes over the city after dark from 24 May to 10 June 2013. Every night during Vivid, Aquatique will transform Cockle Bay into a 20-metre wall of water, light, colour, projections and music inspired by the fountains of Versailles. Darlingharbour.com
Celebrate creativity with the whole family during this free day of fun as the MCA goes zany for its annual Zine Fair. Zip with zeal to the Creative Studios and play with paper, stencils and stamps in our zine zone mca.com.au
Head to the Big Top at Walsh Bay for the fun activties planned a the Sydney Writers Festival. Erth bring their lovely little elephant friend for children to say hello to. There's painting of murals and drawing dinosaurs with Tony Flower, prizes to be won with 'Measure Your Height In Books' and colouring-in competitions. In the reading corner, they escape into a world of their own imagination with the delightful puppetry of R.A. Spratt's Nanny Piggins as well as many other stories to be enjoyed. mca.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
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June It’s on again, and you won’t want to miss it, Humpty Dumpty’s annual Balmoral Burn is being held on Sunday, 2 June. It’s not just about conquering Awaba Street - there's entertainment, music, food stalls and activities for the kids which makes the Burn an ideal family day out. Humpty.com.au
The Toy and Game Expo is the premier public event within Australia for the exhibition and demonstration of all the latest in toys and games. The Expo provides visitors an opportunity to test out and play everything from favourites such as Monopoly to the newest addition to the Lego range. Toyandgameexpo.com.au Head to the next Powerhouse Museum Discovery Centre for a program of talks, tours and interactive activities that explore and celebrate invention and innovation. So much fun for the whole family including constructing your own meccano piece. castlehill.powerhousemuseu m.com
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 FLEUR ROBINSON OF MRS ROBINSON SHARES HERE DESIGN TIPS WHEN DECORATING A CHILD’S ROOM
I
don’t want to do myself out
of a job! However, if you’d like to attempt a child’s room design yourself, I’m more than happy to share some simple planning techniques and great resources that will make the process more enjoyable. Whether you’re starting with a blank canvas or updating a current room, I’m sure you will gain from this step by step guide no matter where you choose to start. My general piece of advice would be - don’t be too sentimental - and this is all about learning to edit. Of course, there should be a place for special keepsakes and gifts from family and friends, but not necessarily pride of place. We all have different tastes and I definitely am a fan of an eclectic mix, so I certainly don’t mean that you need to sacrifice meaning for the look. However, the pieces will become more meaningful if they are complimented by clever groupings and displays. We’ll talk about creating vignettes towards the end of the process...for now, let’s begin with the basics.
By starting with a surface, floor or wall, you are deciding upon your overall look (whether you realise it or not). Play around on Pinterest or something similar - set up an artwork page
and a separate a rug page, then stand back and you will see a pattern and colour scheme emerging. Centralizing all the webpage and blog images, catalogue and magazine pages you have collected will definitely reveal a trend towards your preferred look. Wallpaper is overwhelming for most people, so steer clear unless you have a designer on board. I’d also suggest you steer clear of the kids department at any store (!)
Many more subtle elements are discovered in the grown-up areas that will offer your design greater longevity.
#1 Little Tropicana by Rachael Castle, castleandthings.com.au #2 La De Dah crocheted rug, ladedahkids.com.au #3 Apricot Coral Other Half (part of a set) by Rachael Castle, castleandthings.com.au #4 Diamond Jute slate blue rug from Dwell Studio, dwellstudio.com
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Next it’s great to start selecting furniture. Use the same Pinterest or Polyvore (used here) approach and set yourself a budget. Of course we want our children to sleep well, but beds don’t need to come from bedding stores and avoid Ikea! There are great suppliers of custom upholstered bedheads (bednest.com.au), coloured cane bedheads (ecochic.com.au), and classic iron cots and beds, incyinteriors.com.au - these are just a few charming examples. You could also search for a vintage hospital bed on Ebay, give it a new coat of paint and then visit that bedding store for an excellent quality mattress. Bunkbeds are the most difficult. I have found a beautiful design by Oeuf, but good looking bunks are truly hard to find. Make sure you measure correctly for any piece of furniture and allow lots of circulation space. Think about the combination of materials...lots of people fall into the trap of buying the matching accessories and the whole room ends up looking like a homage to blonde timber. Buy your dresser, your drawers, your shelves, your storage from loads of different stores and combine timber with iron or combine timber with iron or cane, new with vintage, plastic with upholstery. Keep it to two major groups of materials such as I have here - timber and metal - with some upholstery. Fabrics should be chosen by a designer so they are fit for purpose and you don’t get talked into a “feature” fabric you will tire of quickly.
Don’t be convinced that the kids will trash anything that isn’t indestructible or wipe down, they will love having a special room as much as you do - teach them early to have an appreciation for good design! Finally, when the good bones are in place, you can have heaps of fun with the finishing touches. Beautiful bedlinen is not hard to find and at every price-point. I picked up some organic cotton sheets from Spotlight and they’ve washed so well and kept
their softness. I find kids usually sleep quite hot, they are always wearing pyjamas and we typically don’t leave windows open out of security fears so, I prefer coverlets and blankets. Definitely go with a quilt if you live in a chilly part of Australia! Toy storage doesn’t need to be predictable and I find that if things are truly put away in closed boxes, you can bring them out a month later and it’s like Christmas! Keep a selection of the favourites on display in wire or cane baskets or on simple continued.....
#1 The Little Dorm shelving in various sizes, Ferm Living fermliving.com #2 Perch bunk bed by Oeuf, oeufnyc.com and look for an Australian stockist #3 Petite Rouge desk from Hard to Find, hardtofind.com #4 Seb armchair by Jardan, jardan.com.au #5 Stanley stool/side-table by Jardan #6 Yellow Lean floor lamp by Douglas & Bec, douglasandbec.co.nz and look for an Australian stockist #7 Iron double hall cupboard from Lark, larkstore.com #8 Work lamp by Design House Stockholm, designhousestockholm.com #9 Wire pigeon hole shelf from Lark, larkstore.com #10 Jonathan Adler Lampart Lounger as a bed, available in Australia through selected stockists 22
Old lockers look fantastic, but it’s a stylist trend that has pushed up the prices on the vintage market. I’m a vintage fanatic so I love the contrast of something worn and weathered against the new. I especially love vintage toys and I’m proud that my kids understand the simple fun of a game of quoits. Textiles can make a room so special. I think that people forget that throws and cushions are equally effective in a child’s room as they are in our living rooms. One of my favourite textile artists is Donna Wilson. Her knitted critters and other accessories are so full of character and beautiful colour, you’ll have trouble deciding upon your favourite. Donna’s animals aside, try to steer clear of animals as a theme for a child’s room. Everyone will latch onto your theme and before you can say, “birthdays and Christmas”, the room will be full of said animal in all sorts of guises! The bedroom I have designed really only has a common theme of geometry. The artwork, rug, cushions, mobile and chair padding all display subtle diamond shapes and these are the only elements that introduce some directional or strong colour. I’ve kept it fairly ‘pastel’ and easy on the eye as saturated colours are jarring. There is a secondary bird theme in the coverlet and knitted toy, if you look closely! Obviously the scheme is geared towards a girl’s room but a boys room can be achieved just as easily and with some of the same elements. Give it a try or you can contact me to manage the entire process, it’s what I love to do.
#1 Artecnica mobile from Kido Strore, kidostore.com #2 Ceramic Melon knob from Anthropologie, anthropologie.com #3 Rosie the bird by Donna Wilson, donnawilson.com #4 Face painted boxes by Ferm Living, ferm-living.com #5 Wire basket in various sizes, Ferm Living #6 Star round cushion in Rose, Ferm Living #7 Little Geometry in Rose, Ferm Living #8 Aviary coverlet by Anthropologie, anthropologie.com Fleur Robinson is Owner of Interior Design Business Mrs Robinson.
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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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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 40 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
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!
May
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 & WHERE: Enmore Theatre Sat 11th May The Concourse Chatswood 17th-18th May COST: $27.50
WHAT: Danny in the Toybox Tens of thousands of children know Danny in the Toybox off by heart. Now young audiences have a chance to enjoy Danny live on stage in this dynamic play written by hugely popular Australian children’s author, Richard Tulloch. WHEN : Sat 11th May-Sat 13th July WHERE: Marian Street Theatre Killara COST: Children $18 Adults $22 Families of 4 $68
June
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 15th June 2013 WHERE: Luna Park Sydney COST: $29.90-$79.90
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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: Mon 24th-Wed 26th June WHERE: The Concourse Theatre, Chatswood COST: $26
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:WHERE: Fri 28th June-Sat 29th June WHERE: Theatre Royal Sydney COST: $24.90-$64.90
WHAT: Disney Fantasia with the Sydney Symphony Orchestra Experience Disney's groundbreaking marriage of music and vision with stunning, high-definition animations projected on the big screen to music by the Sydney Symphony. Magnificent music from the original 1940 version and Fantasia 2000, including The Sorcerer's Apprentice, Beethoven's Fifth Symphony and Tchaikovsky's Nutcracker Suite . WHEN: Sat 29th June WHERE: Sydney Opera House COST: $35-$89
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July
WHAT: Horrible Histories: Awful Egyptians live on stage We all want to meet people from history – the trouble is everyone is dead! So it's time to prepare yourselves for Horrible Histories live on stage! Using actors and groundbreaking 3D special effects, this astounding show is guaranteed to thrill you as historical figures and events come alive on stage and hover at your fingertip WHEN: Tues 2nd July-Sun 14th July WHERE: Sydney Opera House COST: $39-$69
WHAT: Giggle & Hoot and Friends live on stage Jimmy Giggle, Hoot the Owl and their best owl pal Hootabelle are coming to the Sydney Opera House for their first ever live stage show Giggle and Hoot and Friends for a full-on 55 minute Giggle-liscious stage spectacular. Giggle and Hoot will be joined on stage by your favourite ABC characters, Bananas In Pyjamas and LazyTown. WHEN: Thurs 4th-Sun 7th July WHERE: The Concert Hall Sydney Opera House COST: $39.50-$53.50 NB: Adult and children's tickets are the same price. Everyone needs a paid ticket except children 12 months of age or younger when NOT occupying a seat. 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: Wednesday 10th-Sun 14th July WHERE: Allphones Arena COST: $25.50-$74.50
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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 Whale Beach, Avalon Beach, Clovelly Beach, Bilgola Beach, Ivo Rock Pool at South Coogee, Dee Why Beach, Freshwater Beach, and Oak Park Beach, Cronulla.
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 National Parks are the obvious choice with dedicated walking tracks of different levels but there are many other options to choose from when deciding on where to walk with the kids. SUGGESTED ACTIVITY- For a short nature walk head North to Bobbin Head in the KuRing Gail National park. This is not only a great place to picnic with BBQ’s and a children’s playground, it’s a great place to take a short walk with the kids. Head along the Bobbin Head Boardwalk for great views of Cockle Creek from the bridge and plenty of opportunities to see wonderful mangroves and the crabs that call home to this area.
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 some fabulous coastal walks HERE. SUGGESTED ACTIVITY- Grab the beloved pooch and the whole family and head out to Sydney Olympic Park 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 Sydney that are family friendly. If you are looking for some recommended inner city rides click HERE or head to your local park for some smaller tracks. SUGGESTED ACTIVITY- Head to a dedicated bike track where children can gain confidence and develop road safety skills, away from the dangers of our roads. Our top picks include, the Learners Cycleway at Centenniall Parklands, Kids Bike Track at Sydney Park and the Children’s Bike Loop at Sydney Olympic Park.
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- Get the kids interested in the garden by signing them up to a variety of kids gardening classes and events in the Sydney area including; Dandy Lions at the Royal Botanic Gardens Edible Kids Gardens Workshops The Australian Garden Show- Head to the Young Sprouts Kids Spot where kids can dip their fingers into pots of soil, meet fellow young green thumbs from their community, and learn the basics of gardening in fun and interactive ways. Kids Weekly Gardening Workshops at West Pymble Community Garden Flower Power Gardening Centres have free kids gardening classes in during school holidays.
8. Pick Your Own Fruit
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 Sydney click HERE.
What a wonderful activity for children to be involved in. Jump in the car and take a drive to the Central Coast where families are invited to pick their own fruit. Children will love seeing how a fruit is grown and delivered to your table. Pick your own farms are located in Wisemans Ferry where you can currently pick mandarins at Fords Farm and mandarins and mushrooms and mandarins at Watkins Farm. Mandarin season at both farms commences on the 25th May.
9. Spotlight Prowl
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 these amazing creatures. There are a couple of events where kids can learn about nocturnal animals including; Check out the Moonlight Meander at Mowbray Park on the 10th May, the Spotlight Prowl at Centennial Park on the 17th May and for the little ones who can’t head out at night, check out the Pre-Schoolers Bush Scramble at Ferndale Reserve on the 9th May.
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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..