Alphabet Street Mini Mag-Melb

June 2011

Welcome to our first issue of the Alphabet Street Mini Mag !

Each month we will be replacing our monthly newsletter with our new online Mini Mag giving you more than just what’s on in Melbourne & surrounding areas.

Fashion, children’s products , featured activities and competitions will be dotted through our e-mag giving you more updates on what’s available for kids.

Coming into our second year since launching in 2009, we feel this is the next step in our evolvement as a destination site for parents and carers of kids 0-12 years.

We hope our E-Mag will inspire you to buy, see, do, visit all the venues and products featured in the Alphabet Street Mini Mag. We also hope you read our Mini Mag monthly and if you feel a little creative.....please feel free to send in any articles, items, activities you would like featured!

Penny Price OWNER 3

I graduated in 2010 from the Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology and have been sponsored by Olympus Australia for two years. I am inspired by films, photography, music, culture, Europe, my sister, real life and of course children. I am now represented my U.S photographic agency Treehouse Reps and have recently began shooting commercially.

I inherited the lung and digestive disease ‘Cystic Fibrosis' when I was born and I hope to create awareness for the disease through the exposure of my photography. Whilst Cystic Fibrosis does not define me as a person it has helped give me extreme passion and drive to be successful in everything I attempt to do. I dream to one day shoot for Vogue Bambini and travel the world doing what I love most.

Tania McCartney is an Australian author, editor, publisher, blogger, magazine writer and mango devourer. She is the author of the Riley travelogue series of picture books and has also published adult non-fiction. r of the Riley travelogue series of picture books and has also published adult non-fiction.

Melbourne mum of two, Linda Bradfield is owner and founder of Nifty Mums Network. A community website dedicated to connecting with mums to assist with all aspects of parenting. Linda who is a sufferer of PND wanted to try and have a place where isolated mums, especially those with PND, could have access to a support community.

Jolie Morello is the proud mother of two bouncing boys – Oscar (2) and Elliot (6 months) she is the founder and creator of Hey Bambini – Dining out with Baby which was launched in 2008 and lists over 108 of Melbourne’s best baby and child friendly cafes

Mini Mag Editorial: Penny Price All editorial and advertising enquiries e:info@alphabetstreet.com.au ABN: 89826197104 Photography: Alexandrena Parker

COVER: Our Model Audrey wears OLIVE’S FRIEND POP Blue Unisex ‘Louis’ Woollen Coat RRP $ 140

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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Gorgeous

garments from Oobi in an exciting and unconventional palette of divine rose, sky blue, reds and greens with hints of purple create a delicious rainbow of colour. Dress up bear and bunny ears, sweet aprons, fuzzy knits, party dresses, puffball skirts and velvet are delightful and allow children to enjoy the chance to be children without compromising on style.

1. Navy Ginger Skirt-RRP $44.95, 2.Cherry Puffa Vest-$49.95, 3. Scarlett Poppy Cardigan RRP $39.95, Rosy Ginger Skirt RRP $44.95 4. Fabric Belts RRP $14.95 5. Arabella Blush Dress RRP $69.95, Fluffy Pink Headband RRP $12.95 & Starry Starry Pink Diamante Tights RRP $16.95 6 and 7. Tilly Jacket RRP $59.95 8. Green and Navy Rufus Vest RRP $34.95 9. Green Billi cord trousers RRP $34.95 5

WHAT: Once Upon a Tale: Interactive Storytelling with Fairy Caitlin & Sim Sala Bimin : Two of Melbourne’s most magical creatures team up to take you on a storytelling adventure that is out of this world!

WHEN:Saturday 4th June 11am & 2pm

WHERE: La Mama Courthouse, 349 Drummond St, Carlton COST: All tickets $12 | Suitable for ages 3 – 9 WHAT: Little Big Shots International Film Festival for Kids An inspiring, meaningful and fun-filled festival, Little Big Shots features the best in local and international children's shorts, animations, documentaries and, amazingly, child-produced films.

WHEN:Thurs 9th June- Mon 13th June WHERE:ACMI & Artplay COST: $7 per ticket WHAT: Play School's Big Jazz Adventure with Rachael Coopes and Teo Gebert- Come and celebrate Play School's 45th birthday with an Adventure of the Big Jazz kind. The children's television icon Play School returns to the Melbourne International Jazz Festival .

WHEN:12-13th June at 10.00am & 12pm WHERE:Melbourne Town Hall COST: $18 per ticket WHAT: The Gruffalo- The magical musical adaptation of the award winning picture book by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler, published by Macmillan Children’s Books. ‘A mouse took a stroll through the deep, dark wood…’

WHEN:28th June-2nd July WHERE:The Arts Centre COST:General Admission-$19 + $8.50 service fee 6

WHAT: Fun 4 Kids Festival-Housed in a magical 2.5 acre fully indoor 'village' in the heart of Warrnambool, the festival offers a feast of experiences - and the best thing is you pay one entry fee then all the fun is Free! Lot of kids entertainers and activities.

WHEN:Sunday 3rd-Sunday 10th July WHERE: Warrnambool CBD, at the corner of Liebig and Timor Street.

COST: Single ticket $31, Family of four-$120 WHAT: HOYTS JNR-Day of the Diesels-Join Thomas, Percy and Diesel for another fabulous adventure on the Island of Sodor..

HOYTS WHEN:On sale July 12th WHERE:Selected HOYTS cinemas COST: All Tickets $6.50 WHAT: Jays Place 2011 Tour- Come visit Jay’s Place and see and hear music from his two Aria nominated children’s albums.

WHEN:18th-24th July WHERE:Venues in Moorabbin, Box Hill, Geelong, Mornington, Eltham, Essendon and Ringwood

COST: All tickets $14.50

WHAT: Join Dora, Boots the monkey, Diego and their friends as they embark on an exciting journey through the number pyramid, the mixed-up jungle and more.

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WHEN:12-13th August at 10.30am & 1pm WHERE:Princess Theatre Melbourne-163 Spring Street, Melbourne COST: $29.50-$49.50 7

Australian Children’s Author Tania McCartney Tania McCartney is an author, publisher, editor and book reviewer. She runs Kids Book Review [www.kids-bookreview.com] and writes for several online sites.

Tania is a both a published and self-published author of adult non-fiction and children’s works, including the Riley series of travelogue picture books. The fourth book – Riley and the Grumpy Wombat: A Journey Around Melbourne – will be released by Ford Street Publishing in Sep 2011.

Her first lifestyle book handmade living: a designer collective. was released in Dec 2010, and she will be published by the National Library of Australia and Exisle Publishing in 2011.

Tania is currently working on several children’s and adult books. She lives in Canberra with a husband, two kidlets and a mountain of books. www.taniamccartney.com

Q & A with Tania At what stage of your life did you realise that writing was going to be your career of choice?

TANIA: I’ve been writing since I was in primary school, so writing full time has been a lifetime goal.

It took me three decades to finally realise that dream. My secret: tenacity.

How do you juggle a successful career and motherhood?

TANIA: By being organised. It also helps that I love what I do; I do it for leisure! and my kids love to be involved. I feel blessed I can share my work so intensely with my family.

What has been the hardest hurdle to conquer in your career so far?

TANIA: Not taking rejection personally, and soldiering on. Never giving up.

If you weren’t a successful author, what career path would you like to try?

TANIA Other than running a magazine (more writing!) I would have loved to become a surgeon.

Or a movie director.

If you were a member of the English Royal Family who would you be and why?

TANIA: Diana. Because she was passionate, real, and a little crazy. All vital for writers.

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FAB Finds- Winter Wellies

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2. Walnut Melbourne-Navy Gumboots RRP-$39.95

1. Rosie Roo Aeroplane Gumboots RRP-$35.00 Available from Puddle Beach

Winter Wellies, an essential item for; • Family monthly Sundays at Collingwood Children’s Farm • Meeting the new arrivals at Healesville Sanctuary • Exploring at the Ian Potter Childrens’ Garden.

• Teriffic Toddler Tuesdays at Werribee Open Range Zoo • Jumping in muddy puddles just after it’s rained!

3. Pickle and Pop Gumboots RRP-$34.50

4. Fox and Faun Bergstein Gumboots(pink) RRP-$49.95 9

Featured Activity....

Teatime & Tales-Jolly Jumping June Teatime and Tales is more than a cafe and Bookshop. It is a destination for families where children are welcomed with open arms!

Not only are they catered for with a great children’s menu and toys to play with, there are regular events that have been created specifically for kids.

This month watch out for some great cooking and craft classes; •Friday 3rd June-T-Shirt decorating (bring your own t-shirt) 10am •Monday 6th June-Pizza Faces 10am •Wednesday 8th June-Malteser Muffins 10am •Friday 10th June-Fairy Wings 10am •Monday 13th June-Toblerone Muffins 10am •Wednesday 15th June-Apple Strudel 10am •Friday 17th June-Pirate Hats 10am •Monday 20th June-Whizz Fizz Cupcakes 10am •Wednesday 22nd June-Gnocchi 10am •Friday 24th June-Milk Carton Pirate Ships 10am

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Children’s Wall Art A simple way to transform a blank canvas into a gorgeous room for your little one.

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Candy Art-Alphabet Tree Canvas- RRP from $89.95 The Little Humbugs-Ewan’s Red Truck RRP$35 Matted Print Gelati Art-Cute Pirate Stars with Navy RRP $30 MiniPrintz “Flowerheart’ from $20 Mooo Canvas Art-Up in the Air (Party) from RRP $39.95 Belle & Boo-Ava’s Tea Party from RRP $150 (avaiilable from LARK)

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If your little ones have always been in awe of the amazing giants that once walked our planet, well this NEW exhibition at Scienceworks is a must see!

Explore-a-saurus, has been developed by Scienceworks to demonstrate the ways in which palaeontologists use fossil evidence to learn about how dinosaurs lived; from what they ate and how fast they ran, to what colour they may have been and even how they cared for their young.

Explore-a-saurus also features six animatronic dinosaurs for your to meet.

1 Jun 2011 - 15 Apr 2012 10:00 AM - 4:30 PM Scienceworks-2 Booker Street Spotswood Adults $18, Concession $6 and Children (3 - 16 years) $5. Prices include general entry to Scienceworks.

Click HERE

Once again, so much fun to be had in Melbourne over the school holidays.

Check out some of our favourites below....

WHAT: Kids Flicks-Toy Story 1, 2 & 3 Toys Story Fans will be lucky enough to view all three Disney Pixar classics over the school holiday period at ACMI. WHEN: 2nd July-!7th July WHERE: ACMI-Federation Square Flinders St Melbourne COST: Full/Concession $6 ACMI Members $5 WEB: CLICK HERE

WHAT: Felt-y Friends (age 3-5 years) Join puppeteers Rennie Watson and Ella Holmes as they help you to create beautiful felt hand puppets of you and your mum or dad to take home.

WHEN: Wed 13 July, Thurs 14 July and Sat 16 July: 10am to 10.45am WHERE: ARTPLAY COST: $15 per child. Bookings Essential www.artplay.com.au WEB: CLICK HERE

WHAT: The Gruffalos Child The magical musical adaptation of the award-winning picture book by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler, published by Macmillan Children’s Books.

WHEN: 5th-9th July WHERE: The Arts Centre-100 St Kilda Rd Melbourne COST: Adult: $25.00,Child: $25.00 Bookings essential WEB: CLICK HERE

WHAT: Dance Play-The Australian Ballet DancePlay! is an exciting and innovative 4-day school holiday program designed to introduce boys and girls to movement, dance-making and dance art.

WHEN: Tuesday 5 to Friday 8 July : 9.30am to 1.30pm daily for four days WHERE: The Primrose Potter Australian Ballet Centre studios 2 Kavanagh Street Southbank COST: $230 per child (4 days) Bookings essential WEB: CLICK HERE

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WHAT: Queen Victoria Market-Electolux Cooking School: What to do with Meringue

A great class for kids to learn the fundamentals of a great dessert base for many different dishes.

WHEN: Thursday 7th July, 11am WHERE: Electrolux Cooking School- 69 Victoria St Melbourne COST: $55 WEB: CLICK HERE

WHAT: Captain Cook’s Navigational Adventure Join Captain Cook on a navigational adventure at Cooks’ Cottage in Fitzroy Gardens . You will be given your very own compass to keep and ‘secret orders’ to help you navigate around the world.

WHEN: 02/07/2011 to 17/07/2011 WHERE: Cooks' Cottage, Fitzroy Gardens Wellington Parade East Melbourne COST: Children $5.50 (includes compass to keep), Adults $3 (accompanying child/ren) WEB: CLICK HERE

WHAT: Fungi Fairies-Cranbourne Gardens Enter the magical world of the RBG Cranbourne bushland on a search for cheeky fungi fairies and elves.

Peek under peat moss, look through the leaves and flutter through the ferns as you immerse yourself in the smells and sounds of the bush, searching for the elusive fungi fairies!

WHEN: 10 – 11am Thursday 7 July &Thursday 14 July WHERE: RBG Cranbourne COST: $6.50 child,$5.50 Garden Grubs Kids' Club members WEB: CLICK HERE

WHAT: Puppets at Fed Square With the July school holidays comes the madcap puppetry fun of Puppets at Fed Square - a free, week-long puppet program featuring two world puppet premieres, workshops, shows, films and giant eye-popping puppets roaming the Square!

WHEN: 4 - 10 July WHERE: Federation Square COST: FREE WEB: CLICK HERE

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June 2011 Fairy Floss Markets •Sunday 5th June 9am-2pm The Manningham Convention Centre 1 Thompsons Road BULLEEN •Sunday 19th June 9am-2pm Deakin Waterfront Campus 1 Gheringhap Street GEELONG Yarraville Markets •Saturday 11th 10am-3pm The Masonic Hall Cnr Willis and Canterbury St Yarraville Bumble Bee Markets •Sunday 5th June 9am-1pm Preston City Hall 284 Gower St, Preston •Saturday 18th June 12.30pm-3.30pm 649 Ferntree Gully Rd, Glen Waverley •Sunday 19th June 9am-1pm Mornington Racecourse Corner Racecourse and Bungower Roads,Mornington •Sunday 26th June 9am-1pm Berwick Fields Primary School 35 Gwendoline Drive, Berwick

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See and Do

Activity Trail-June -Melbourne CBD Explore the wonderful children’s activities that run in the CBD! Afterwards treat yourself and the kids to a refreshment at one of the close-by family friendly facilities that our friends at Hey Bambini recommend!

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Map courtesy of visitvictoria.com

Share the wonder of books with children. A wonderful session of stories, songs, rhymes and activities. Pre-school Storytime will run on the 1st, 15th and 29th June at 11am-11.45am.

Hey Bambini Tip: Grab a take-away coffee from Mr Tulk, (located next to the State Library) sit on the library steps with the kids and count the trams go past. Changing Facilities available in the disabled toilet and pram access via the Library. **Melbourne Central is also across the street which has changing facilities and a large food hall** 16

See and Do So many wonderful Disney classics showing at the Kids Flicks sessions in June including, Sleeping Beauty on the 19th June and The Little Mermaid on the 26th June. Tickets are only $6 Hey Bambini Tip: – ACMI have a modest on site cafe with all your favourites such as fresh sandwiches, soups and salads. For the kids they offer highchairs, babycinos, changing facilities and a small kids menu. (**Changing Facilities are located in the main ACMI centre**) Although the NHV Kids Corner is currently closed for repairs, the NGV Kids Space at NGV International is the second dedicated gallery designed for children of up to 8 years old and their families. Children and families can have fun together as they discover art, explore multimedia and hands-on activities while sharing new ideas.

Hey Bambini Tip: The Terrace Cafe in the Botanical Gardens – Stroll on over to The Terrace for morning tea – lunch or brunch. This place has it all – beautiful views and all the things you need for a stress free outing with baby. **Hey Bambini Features: Highchair : Change Table : Kids Menu : Babycinos : Room to Move. http://www.heybambini.com.au/Cafe-Review-next.asp?id=83 Held every Saturday afternoon between 2pm and 4pm in Docklands, Ice Sk8 is designed to give parents a break while their kids have a ball at Medibank Icehouse, the best ice skating rink in Australia!

Hey Bambini Tip: Le Cirque Fine Foods – After skating up a storm rest weary legs at Le Cirque Fine Foods at Docklands. For the kids Le Cirque have FREE babycinos, highchairs for little bottoms and a very spacious parent’s room which is only a short walk away. **Hey Bambini Features: Parents Room : Highchairs : Kids Menu : FREE Babycinos : Room to Move. http://www.heybambini.com.au/Cafe-Reviewnext.asp?id=128 Make a splash at the stop motion animation workshop at ARTPLAY Saturday 11 June to Monday 13 June: 12.30pm to 3.30pm. No bookings necessary!

Children will storyboard a magical underwater scene with artists Ben Landau and Ben Goodes, then have the chance to ‘swim’ through the scene with the help of aerial photographs and stop motion animation.

Hey Bambini Tip: After playtime head on down to Southbank where there are many eating places to choose from. Dine in a fancy restaurant or take the kids to the busy food court, grab some lunch and sit by the river. Southbank has changing facilities in the disabled toilet area and of course lifts and ramps for the prams.

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Kids Book Review is a children’s literature and book review site that supports and features authors, illustrators and publishers Australia-wide and internationally.

This month, owner of Kids Book Review (www.kidsbookreview.com.au) and author Tania McCartney has reviewed three fabulous books that are highly recommended.

The Aunties Three by Nick Bland (Scholastic, $24.99) When three hoity aunties coming knocking at the door, three little wide-eyed kids scrabble in panic, proffering uprooted flowers from an indoor pot plant as the three prissed-up aunts stride through the door. They want tea, they want foot rubs, they want something sweet to eat, and as our three little poppets fumble to provide all, things go disastrously wrong. Milk gets spilled. Fuzzy hoity hats get plucked. Baked bean cans explode on the stove and coat wrinkly faces in lumpy muck.

As the aunties three are ousted one-by-one from the house, our well-meaning tots are dismayed by a fourth knock at the door.

Uh-oh. Who could it be?

Nick Bland’s illustrations feature that funky, Sendak-style edge – the quirkyness, charm and hilarity he is renowned for. Every detail is an eye-fest. The toddler in the pig suit, the bullseye target on the ming vase, the aunt’s crocodile handbag, the bare bot-bot on the tot drawing on the wall. The delightful surprises are virtually endless. On a narrative note, Bland’s rhyming text is typically divine, descriptive and funny, and the KNOCK KNOCK KNOCK of the arriving aunties adds delicious suspense. The Aunties Three will fill faces – little and big – with stacks of wonder.

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Too Small to Fail by Morris Gleitzman Penguin, $16.95 In his latest junior fiction novel, Morris Gleitzman once again combines intelligent and advanced themes with an intensely childlike sense of fun. In Too Small to Fail, he takes on the complicated world of finance and bundles it up with road trips, animal welfare, camels and bribery – all in one whacky story that somehow manages to also touch on the deeply meaningful nuances of life. But that’s just the Gleitzman mastery.

Oliver is son to a pair of high-flying bank-owning parents. When one of his long-forgotten nannies blackmails him in order to recoup the $11,000 she invested with Oliver’s parents, the young lad relies on his banking savoir fair to put things right. Only thing is, his savoir faire may be sorely miscalculated.

In Too Small to Fail, Gleitzman once again combines an incredibly likeable main character with a kooky storyline, plenty of action, humour and an uncanny knack for poignancy. Heartstrings are pulled and grins are to be had in this thoroughly entertaining read.

Press Here by Hervé Tullet Allen & Unwin, $19.99 Like that insatiably tempting Do Not Press the Red Button website, this new release by iconic French artist Hervé Tullet is one of those books you just have to touch immédiatement!

You just can't help your twitching finger from reaching out and pressing that yellow button, post-haste. And what happens when you press it?

Kaboom! You're hooked. On turning to the next page and diving into this utterly simple yet utterly breathtaking book.

With snow white pages and a serious of coloured dots, kids are invited to push, tap and rub dots gently, then to do so in quick succession and with numbered taps. Next, shaking of the book is required. That's right - and just watch those dots tumble about!

Mesmerising. Who needs an iPad with Hervé Tullet around?

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Although digital technology is our childrens’ future , I’m sure many of us would agree that it is extremely important that children have outdoor interests away from the Digital Media.

If your child is often found capturing bugs, exploring hidden tracks or forming friendships with the diverse array of animal cultural resources and perhaps even inspire life in the garden, then Junior Rangers may them to become an environmental custodial be possibly you of might wantMum’s to or park ranger in the future.give her a Waltzsomething into a land sugar fabulous fruitcake consider for your little one. tummy ach Junior Rangers can experience a range of Parks Victoria’s Junior Ranger program is an different Ranger Walks & Talks which may exciting environmental program also vary from park to park. Junior Rangers encouraging primary-aged children and can choose from: their families to explore and have fun in Victoria’s parks and reserves by * Rock pool discovery participating in a wealth of activities during * Cave exploration the school holidays. * Spotlight night walks * Wetland walks The activities involved teach children about * Fire recovery discovering the secrets of Victoria’s national * Environmental craft sessions parks and reserves from a real park ranger. * Environmental games * Cultural walks and talks Junior Rangers is designed to get kids outdoors, have fun, learn about the state’s wonderful parks and natural and

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Selected parks will also provide participants with a Junior Ranger certificate for the completion of certain activities.

In the July School Holidays there are some great Junior Ranger Activities planned at Serendip Sanctuary; If the scheduled Ranger Walks and Talks • Crazy Critters-Monday 4th July & Wed are not enough, you can always partake 13th July in your own DIY activity trails that are Come along and meet some of downloadable from the Junior Rangers Serendip's very special creatures and website. So much to explore and see learn what you can do to help keep including; wildlife wild. COST: $5.50 •Discovering Trees • Behind the Scenes-Wednesday 13th •Wildlife Detective July.

Waltz into a land of sugar Mum’s fabulous fruitcake give her a Environmental I-Spy Help the ranger feed Serendip any many more than that whole family Sanctuary's animals. COST: $5.50 tummy ach can get involved in.

For more information on the Junior Those children who participate in Junior Ranger program go to Ranger Walks & Talks will receive a Junior www.juniorrangers.com.au Ranger badge and sticker.

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Soft Play

No sharp edges ..... some of the best soft play products on the market.!

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1.AromaEcoDough Lottie Lime RRP$10 for 125g 2.Cuckoo Nest Handmade Queen of Teasets (Available from LARK) RRP$89 3. Rudy and the Dodo Hand knitted Box of Cookies RRP-$34.95 4.Life’s A Stitch-Felt Fresh Fruit Pack RRP $40 5. Lilliputiens Bowling Farm available from The Hip Infant RRP $69.95

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WHAT: Join Jackie, head storyteller and owner of My Little Bookcase as she delights children by bringing books to life in an hour of stories, singing, dancing, games and craft.

WHEN: Every second Tuesday 9.30am-10.30am •June 28 2011 9.30-10.30 Baking (Wear your apron) •July 12 2011* TBA Milo and Marshmallow Night (Wear your pyjamas) * School Holidays WHERE: Cubbyhouse Canteen- 43a Union Street, Armadale COST: $20 per parent/child ($10 for each additional child) Includes coffee, babycino and light morning tea.

Suitable for children aged 2-5 Bookings essential: info@mylittlebookcase.com.au

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Freebies and Cheapies

Top

for under

There is so much fun to be had around Melbourne for under $10 per person. We have listed a few of our favourite activities the whole family can enjoy!

1. ACMI Kid’s Flicks

$10

ACMI’s fun-filled Kids' Flicks program is guaranteed to delight and captivate the imagination of children and grown-ups alike.

Children’s movies run on weekends and throughout the school holidays. COST: $6 ,ACMI Members-$5 WEB: CLICK HERE for more info

2. Moore Educational Lego Sunday Fundays Come along with a buddy, daddy or even nanna to have some serious building fun. Each Sunday has a different theme: LEGO COMMUNITY, MAD MACHINES, SPACE ODESSEY, FANTASY FUN. COST: $5.00 per person (including accompanying adult) WEB: CLICK HERE for more info

3. Collingwood Childrens Farm Children can get a close up experience with real farm animals. Help milk the cow everyday at 10am and 4pm and don’t forget family Sundays which are held on the first Sunday of the month and children can also experience FREE pony and tractor rides.

COST: $8 for Adults and $4 for children.

WEB: CLICK HERE for more info

4. Children’s Gallery at the Melbourne Musuem The entire Children's Gallery is aimed at 3-8 year olds, and consists of three spaces: the Big Box exhibition gallery, The Learning Environment and the Children's Garden.

The Gallery is not only interactive and educational but fun giving families a full day of activities for under $10 a head.

COST: Adult $8, Concession* and Child (3–16 years) free entry WEB: CLICK HERE for more info

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Freebies and Cheapies 5. Teatime & Tales Cooking & Craft You will always find a fun cooking or craft activity on at Teatime & Tales in Carlton North. Activities run on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays in June.

COST: $7.50 WEB: CLICK HERE for more info

6. $5 Kidz Flix Village Cinemas Every weekend and daily in the school holidays, Village Cinemas screens affordable $5 movies for the whole family to enjoy.

COST: All tickets $5 WEB: CLICK HERE for more info

7. Giant Skywheel Come ride the largest travelling ferris wheel in the southern hemisphere now operating in Birrarung Marr Melbourne. The ride takes approximately 7 - 10 minutes and allows you to see views over the City of Melbourne COST: $8.00 Per Person (NO BOOKING REQUIRED) WEB: CLICK HERE for more info

8. Steamrail Victoria Steam Suburban Shuttles Step back in time and ride the mighty steam trains from selected suburb to suburbs across Melbourne. The kids will love the fizzing and popping of these spectacular pieces of machinery.

COST: $10 for Adults and $5 for children under 16 WEB: CLICK HERE for more info

9. Essendon Traffic School Essendon Traffic School is a mini road set up for kids aged three to ten, complete with road signs, railway bells and traffic lights. It is a safe place for kids to practice riding their bicycles and learn about road rules. Entry is on a first come, first serve basis COST: $5.20 per child (cash only) WEB: CLICK HERE for more info

10. Diamond Valley Miniature Railway The whole family will love riding the mini steam trains at Diamond Valley Railway.

Trains run most Sundays 11am-5pm in Eltham.

COST: $3 per passenger (children under 2 are free) WEB: CLICK HERE for more info 25

Nifty Mums Networkpractical support for mums!

The response from both mums and businesses was overwhelming – not one business said no to donating to a prize hamper for the mum that recruited the most mums to the page and in the space of a month the campaign had seen more than 1400 mums join NMN! Today NMN has almost 4500 mummy likers in the space of 9 months!

With such an amazing response Linda Nifty Mums Network (NMN) is a Facebook continued to contact businesses big & small page that was created by Linda Bradfield, a to source special discounts for mums, Melbourne mum of 2, in August 2010. because no one rewards mums for the Initially started for Linda’s friends as a place tireless job that they do – and to try and to share her favourite products and tips work with businesses to provide practical from cleaning to cool products for kids she support initiatives for mums in crisis. Linda realised the potential of facebook to now has over 200 businesses working with connect with mums all over Australia to her and is in the process of creating the tackle the practical aspects of parenting.

NMN website and legally establishing NMN as a not for profit organisation that will see In addition, Linda who is a sufferer of Post funds go to helping mums in crisis to receive Natal Depression (PND) wanted to try and practical support in times of need. have a place where isolated mums, especially those with PND, could have access to a support community as well as raise awareness of this extremely common illness to reduce the stigma and shame attached to it. So in September last year put out a challenge to her 40 friends on NMN and started a “Recruit A Mum” campaign and sourced donations from numerous local and national businesses.

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The NMN Facebook page has become a place where mums can post questions regarding any aspect of mummery! From cheap ways to keep the house clean, often with no chemicals!, to questions on toilet training, sleeping and eating issues no question is too silly – as odds on someone else would love to know the answer.

Linda is working closely with businesses that provide child care, cleaning and home to set up a subsidised scheme to help such mums when they need it most.

The PND Network Australia Facebook group allows only members to see discussions, posts and the identities of other members and has almost 100 members all over Australia with many mums just feeling supported by knowing that they are not the only ones feeling the way that they do.

NMN has also managed to create some Linda is working closely with businesses that great connections within the business provide child care, cleaning and home to set community, from Work At Home Mums up a subsidised scheme to help such mums (WAHMs) to large corporate bodies, and when they need it most. actively promotes such businesses for free For more information go to on the page. NMN has also had the www.facebook.com/NiftyMumsNetwork opportunity to raise the profile of WAHM businesses through organising pregnancy hampers for Gorgi Coghlan from Network 10’s ‘The Circle’ last year and is the process of compiling WAHM products for a similar pregnancy hamper for Chrissie Swan, also from The Circle.

NMN work with PND and other mental illnesses affecting mums Linda is working with both Beyond Blue and PANDA (Post and Ante Natal Depression Assoc) to raise awareness of PND and other mental illnesses that affect mums. In addition, NMN has a sister site on Facebook, a “secret” group set up so mums with these illnesses can share their thoughts, feelings and questions in a safe and supportive environment. way that they do.

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Retro Toys Do you remember?...

Now: French company Vulli has re-vamped Then: In the mid 1970’s, US Toy Company General Mills brought out the Kenner Family Tree House complete with retro fitout and furniture , a family of four Tree Tots , a family pet, family car , swing and a wind up lift.

the Family Tree House with its own version: The Klorofil Magic Tree. A more modern version and complete with similar items; furniture, family pet, family, car (single) , swing , wind up lift and new additions ,see-saw and sweet sounds of singing bird, and a running creek. Priced from $170 +postage and available from www.twolittleprincesses.com.au

Featured Activity....

217-239 Montague St, South Melbourne PH: 03 9682 6367 www.applesandjam.com.au

Creative Time Children are encouraged to use their imagination to create works of Art from household materials.

Parents can book in children for either 45 mins or 90 mins and watch as they create.

WHEN: Thursday afternoons from 2 – 3.30pm.

COST: Two sessions 45 mins ($15.00) & 90 mins ($25.00) Bookings essential. Loyalty cards are available for these sessions.

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See and Do

Further Afield...

For those intending on travelling to the UK and looking for something to do with the kids, ‘Peppa Pig’s World’ has recently opened at Paulton’s Theme Park in Hampshire.

All the theme park rides in ‘Peppa Pig’s World’ are based on the stories on the TV show and in the DVDs. You can ride Peppa Pig’s Balloon Ride, The Windy Castle Ride, Daddy Pig’s Car Ride, Miss Rabbit’s Helicopter flight as well as playing in Mr Potato’s Playground and the Muddy Puddles Water play area.

Kids won’t be disappointed with the Peppa Pig meet and greet throughout your visit as well as visiting the many Peppa Pig buildings dotted around the theme park. For more information go to www.peppapigworld.co.uk

Monthly Competition It's competition time again and what fabulous prizes we have this month! To enter this month's competition email info@alphabetstreet.com.au in 50 words or less describe your fondest childhood memory.

Enter the exquisite wonderland of Tutu Du Monde, a playground of the prettiest clothes for little girls. They’re laced with fairytale tulle, sparkling sequins, beautiful bows and rosettes so fabulous they’ll have your little sweetpea dancing with delight.

Pretty princesses can play in whimsical ruffled skirts in a rainbow of colours topped with a tee and finished with a bow. Or walk down the aisle – a picture perfect flower girl – in a silk rosette and satin-sashed dress in dusty pastel hues. And for parties, she can choose creamy white or champagne hued fun frills and an accessory for her hair.

Tutu Du Monde was devised by designer Andrea Rembeck, who has enjoyed a stellar career in the Australian fashion industry working with such designers as Collette Dinnigan and Fleur Wood. After having her labels for women, Andrea moved to little women when her own daughter, Alyna, asked for a tutu. Not finding anything that lived up to her desire for quality and her eco-friendly ethos she designed her own. Tutu Du Monde is available at selected boutiques in Australia and online at www.tutudumonde.com. This month one lucky reader will get the opportunity to win the Alyna Tutu in Vintage Mint valued at $149.00

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Monthly Competition

Wall Effect specialises in wall decals (stickers) for children’s spaces, in addition to word art.

However our range is not limited to children's designs, as we have an extensive range of wall and window decals to decorate every room of the home, including the kitchen, bathroom and laundry!

With all decals offered in your choice of the 28 colours available, there is bound to be a match to your dĂŠcor.

Should you not find exactly the design you are after in the range, we also offer to custom design your decal. You may have been searching high and low for a wall decal of your favourite verse - look no further, as we can customise it for you!

Only premium quality matt vinyl is used (which gives the appearance of being painted on the surface) specifically designed for wall (and other smooth surface) application with easy removal.

This month you have the opportunity to win YOUR CHOICE of $100 worth of decals from Wall Effect's range.

For more information visit www.walleffect.com.au or www.facebook.com/walleffect.

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Monthly Competition

Soleil cherry dress.

Beautifully hand stitched feature and cherry’s to match. Available in white, blue dot and red dot fabric. Sizes available are 18months to 8.9years.

Theodore tailored shirt for boys in sky-blue available sizes 18months to 8.9years and Mac tailored shorts, colours available stone, white and khaki..

Aussie kids can now enjoy endless summer days all year round – thanks to Kidsagogo!

Kidsagogo is proud to announce their arrival onto Australian shores. And Australian distributor Melanie Pearce is poised, ready to share the Kidsagogo range with boutique children’s retailers around the country.

Made from 100% natural cotton and voiles, the crisp, timeless resort and city wear by Kidsagogo is already a well known international brand. Unique prints, beautiful hand stitching, and embroidered detail are the Kidsagogo trademark. However, it was the effortless mix and match capabilities that originally captured Melanie’s attention.

Designed and created in Bali, the Kidsagogo label also includes accessories, home wares, and toys. Every Kidsagogo product shares the same beautiful simplicity and attention to detail that sets this label ahead of the rest. Every day is an endless summer day with Kidsagogo – you’ll see!

Bathe in the beautiful Kidsagogo collection at www.kidsagogo.com today. One lucky winner will have the choice of ONE of the gorgeous outfits above.

For more info go to www.kidsagogo.com 32

Monthly Competition

Cocoon Couture offer an exciting range of Denim children's bean bag covers specially designed with everyday use in mind. Each critter features reverse denim applique and high light embroidery colours to bring out their personality.

Cocoon Couture help make your child’s room come alive with their magical range of characters on their bean bags, wall stickers, and other beautiful wooden room accessories.

Inspire their imagination with Cocoon Couture.

In addition to their beautiful range of beanbags, they also offer a selection of unique room accessories including; wall art, wall stickers, wall hooks, bookends, library bags, shelf stand, height charts and so much more to create a gorgeous room for your little one.

This month, one lucky Alphabet Street reader will have the opportunity to win a denim beanbag cover of your choice. Choose from Monkeys, Butterflies, Tigers, Elephants, Owls and Deers!

Cocoon Couture kids denim bean bag covers are fully machine washable and made from 100% cotton 11 oz denim. To see the full range of Cocoon Couture products go to www.cocooncouture.com 33

Monthly Competition Terms and Conditions •Entrant can only enter once •Winners will be notified by email •Winners will need to respond to email within 7 days to collect their prize •Alphabet Street will determine what prize is issued to winning entrants •Entrants must be 18 years and over •Entrants must be from within Australia •Competition will close midnight on the 30th June 2011

Would you like your little one to be the next cover star of the Alphabet Street mini mag?

Each month we will email our

subscribers the theme of the

Is your child the next

cover star of the Alphabet Street mini mag?

month. This theme will need to be incorporated into any photos you send us and will need to be somehow included in the photo. It may be pets, toothbrushes, food etc. The most creative entry will have a chance of being the cover star of our mini mag for that month as well as being shot by the next up and coming children’s portrait and commercial photographer Alexandrena Parker.

If you are a subscriber to Alphabet Street....stay tuned for more information 34