Alphabet Street Melbourne MIni Mag by Penny Price

July 2011

Welcome to the July issue of the Alphabet Street Mini Mag ! Well another month has come and gone and many of you would be filling your days with school holiday activities. (We hope you have been stopping by our school holiday section regularly as we are updating it daily with more activities we find).

Speaking of school holidays, this month’s Mini Mag gives you some great activities that don’t cost a lot of money making the two weeks a lot more affordable. Jemma from Little Eats will give you some ideas on where to ‘Stop.Revive.Survive’ the school holidays! We have had some great articles written by Melbourne Playgrounds and Wendy Blume from Vegie Smugglers you will love, and in every issue our brand new competition with some great prizes by Agoo Australia, 41 Orchard, Live.Play.Create, Jacob & Bonomi and Ecotoys. We hope you enjoy the July issue of the Alphabet Street Mini Mag! Penny Price OWNER

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 â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;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.

Wendy Blume is an illustrator, graphic designer and home cook who spends most nights in the kitchen trying to feed two fussy children. The Vegie Smugglers blog and cookbook is her labour of love aimed at helping all of you out there in the same situation www.vegiesmugglers.com.au Jemma Reynolds is a Mum to two gorgeous little chickadees and owner of family friendly dining website Little Eats. Little Eats provide Melbourne families with a comprehensive reviewed list of cafes around Melbourne that are suitably friendly for families with kids.

Melbourne Playgrounds was launched in 2009 with the aim of becoming THE place for mums and dads, when looking for activities to do. It has reviewed over 2000 playgrounds in Melbourne making it easier for you to find a park that is right for you.

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

COVER: Our Model Jack wears OOBI George tweed hat and Percy orange and stripe sweater.

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

Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s All About..... This season we've introduced some sleepwear and a swimsuit, so little ones can enjoy our vintage-inspired style day and night. We had so much fun with our first trans-seasonal range that we have designed each new pieces in this collection for year-round fun as well. And there are even more unisex and boys pieces so no one misses out on the fun.

1. Esme Floral Dress- RRP $99.95, 2.Josie Swimsuit-RRP $79.95, 3. Bonnie Bonnet HatRRP $69.95 4. Jac Unisex Overalls RRP $99.95 5. Nell Shirt RRP $89.95 6. Evie Skirt RRP $89.95 7. Ada Coat- RRP $169.95 8. Molly Party Dress RRP-$149.95

WHAT:FANTASIA will be screened, as intended, with a twenty minute interval, so bring your friends, your family, any kids you know and treat it as the special event it is. WHEN:Saturday 9th June Doors open 3.25pm for 3.45pm show WHERE: Palais Theatre, St Kilda COST: Single tickets $20.00, Child $10.00 WHAT: Circus Fun at Artplay Mix it up with the folk from Circus Oz. Learn some cool circus skills at this free, open circus workshop.Drop in and try your hand at diabolo, juggling, balancing, clowning and much more. Learn from the experts as they share with you some sneaky circus tricks. WHEN:Thurs 7th July 10am-1pm WHERE:ARTPLAY- Birarrung Marr, behind Federation Square COST: FREE

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

COST:All tickets $14.50 6

WHAT: The Mudcakes-Melbourne's favourite kindi-rockers are back at The Substation on Sunday 31 July, for another round of foot stompin', hip-wiggly, good ol' fashion sing-along fun for the whole family! WHEN:Sunday 31st July 2pm WHERE: The Substation Newport COST: $8.50 (Concession ) $10.50 (Adult) 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.

WHEN:12-13th August at 10.30am & 1pm WHERE:Princess Theatre Melbourne-163 Spring Street, Melbourne COST: $29.50-$49.50 each WHAT: NGV Family Colour Ball- Dress up in a colourful way, delight in dance, music and colour with all the family under NGV's famous stained glass ceiling. Be guided by experienced dance instructors and entertainers to join in the fun. www.ngv.vic.gov.au WHEN:13th August 6pm-8pm WHERE:National Gallery of Victoria COST: $71.50 Family (2 Adults 3 children) / $51.50 NGV Member Family / $12 additional Child / $5 additional NGV Kids Club Member (bookings essential) WHAT: Classcial Babes -A program of classical music and movement designed to awaken the musical senses of the young. Introduce your baby to live music and get them moving, bouncing and boogieing to the music of master composers of the Romantic Era. These concerts are appropriate for infants and toddlers WHEN:22nd August at 10.00am & 11.30am WHERE: Melbourne Recital Centre

COST: $20 per child participant (each child ticket purchased allows free entry to a maximum of 2 parents / carers)

Flirty Bird Blessed Felt Clip RRP-$10 BUY NOW

Sweetie Petiti Red Felt Flower RRP-$12 BUY NOW

Cuckoo for Coco Pink Birdy-Felt Hairclip RRP-$8.95 BUY NOW

Sophie & Jack Designs Lge English Rose Hair Tie RRP-$6 BUY NOW

Soonca Striped Diamante Rosette RRP-$8.95 BUY NOW

Giddy Giddy Felt Hairclip Strawberry RRP-$8 BUY NOW

Please Eloise Annabelle Ponytail Holders RRP-$7.50 BUY NOW

Introducing...

Alex RiggsOwner/Designer Oobi Baby & Kids Oobi Baby and Kids have been designing children's educational toys and textiles since 1998. Oobi’s mission is to create beautiful, retro, charming and slightly whimsical fashion that pushes the boundaries of what people usually expect from children's wear. This month we talk to creator, designer and owner of this gorgeous brand, Alex Riggs.

Q & A with Alex What is the inspiration behind creating the Oobi designs? ALEX :The inspiration is always different. It can be anything from an amazing colour to a trip overseas to revisiting an old storybook. Our ranges are always retro-inspired but have little ‘themes’ that can be seen throughout. It’s a nice way to keep the ranges fresh and to try and create a story with every season. What has been the hardest hurdle to conquer in your career so far? ? ALEX: It’s difficult to switch off I guess. I’m always breathing, dreaming, thinking Oobi and I find that I have completely blurred the line between my work life and my personal life. I always debate with people though – why “switch off” when you love what you do? I’m bored on holidays for example unless I’m checking out vintage markets, looking for buttons or finding inspiration. At night I love going on Facebook and seeing the photos of littlies wearing Oobi. In terms of a business hurdle it’s been hard in the past to get into stores. There are lots of people who haven’t heard of Oobi and don’t want to open their doors to new ideas. Building up a brand and a signature has really helped us to create a niche in the children’s fashion arena but there are still people who don’t ‘get’ it. I won’t change my designs though so we’ll see! What are three words to describe your journey so far with Oobi? ALEX: Exciting, Colourful, Emotional At what point in your Oobi life did you feel like all the hard work has paid off? ALEX : Being voted “Australia’s Favourite Children’s Fashion Brand” by the readers of KidStyleFile was one of the most exciting moments of my life. I had no idea back then that so many people even knew who we were. I remember Angela Anderson saying to me “you have no idea what you’ve created” and I was just in shock. Proper shock! If you weren't a designer for a gorgeous children's brand, what would you be doing? ALEX: I’d probably be teaching Spots or Stripes? ALEX: Uhhhh... I’ll let you guess! 9

It’s Showtime! In addition to the big stage shows coming to Melbourne across the year, there are many smaller productions for families over the school holiday period that the kids will love... WHAT: Once Upon a Time Who knew fairy tales where supposed to be this much fun??? Internationally award-winning magic duo Tim Ellis and Sue-Anne Webster are proud to present their latest school holiday extravaganza!!! There’s magic galore as Hazel floats on thin air, money appears from nowhere, and the Magic Dressing Room will have you rubbing your eyes in disbelief!!! WHEN: July 4- July 16 11am WHERE: Northcote Town Hall CLICK HERE for more details WHAT: Babba Children’s Show The Babba Children's Show is a not to be missed experience for kids of all ages. Come join Benny, Bjorn, Agnetha and Frida with their fabulous band, light show and costumes, as they take you on a dancing journey with the very best of ABBAs amazing songs . WHEN: July 11 (ticket sales close July 8) WHERE: Mornington Peninsula Community Theatre Wilsons Road, Mornington CLICK HERE for more details WHAT: The Mighty bUZZniks The Mighty bUZZniks perform an energetic, action packed show that introduces a broad range of musical styles with lyrics that are relevant to children. Come on a fabulous musical adventure with this five piece band who create very cool music, quirky stories and a lot of energy that will have kids moving and parents grooving. WHEN: July 11 at 10.00am & 11.30am WHERE: Melbourne Recital Centre CLICK HERE for more details 10

WHAT: Peter and The Wolf Bring the kids and the grandkids along for a for a morning of family entertainment!! This school holidays Peter and his animal friends come to life through this much loved children's classic with the addition of a wonderful new dance piece choreographed by Todd Patrick and Amanda Stone with dancers from Patrick Studios Australia. WHEN: July 15 11.30am WHERE: Melbourne Recital Centre CLICK HERE for more details WHAT: The Little Mermaid Alpha's The Little Mermaid is the brand new show from Alphashow! The voice, our main way of expressing ourselves, is the primary symbol in this story. When we compromise truth, we will find our voice lost as well... WHEN: July 11 at 11am WHERE: Darebin Arts & Entertainment Centre CLICK HERE for more details WHAT: Numbat and Friends Let Ranger Dan and the cheeky rascal Numbat take you on a magical musical theatre adventure. Numbat and Friends captures the essence of Australia and brings messages of conservation, recycling and awareness to their audiences. WHEN: Friday 15th July at 10.30am WHERE: The Clocktower Centre Moonee Ponds CLICK HERE for more details WHAT: A Little Bit Of Blue Somethingâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s gone missing again. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s nowhere to be found. Mavis is looking everywhere. Every day a new thing seems to disappear. Little things. Clothes pegs. A tea cup, a ball of wool. But then the thief takes it one step too far: while Mavis is sleeping he steals the wig right off her head! Mavis calls in a Detective to investigate. WHEN: July 15, 16, 17 at 11am & 2pm WHERE: La Mama Courthouse CLICK HERE for more 11 info.

See and Do

If your little one canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t get enough of LEGO construction, then LEGOLAND is a must see destination when planning your next overseas holiday. If you are concerned that LEGOLAND is not on the holiday map, you can ensure that a LEGOLAND will be close by with theme parks in Demark (Billund), Windsor (UK), California and Germany. There are also three future

LEGOLANDS currently being developed in Malaysia, Dubai and Florida. The parks are marketed to young families and although many of the parks have rides such as roller coasters, they are not as extreme as most theme park rides. All four of the parks include a Lego miniland, a model village which includes models of

landmarks and scenes from around the world made from millions of genuine Lego bricks. The parks' rides are all Lego themed; many are made to appear as if they are built out of Lego bricks. There is so much to see and do and even the young at heart will not be able to go past picking up a brick or two and constructing a model of their own. www.legoland.com

Featured Activity

three four knock on the door 46 Nott St, Port Melbourne PH: 03 9645 2058 www.threefour.com.au In addition to the wonderful selection of books and toys LJ & Danielle have sourced, you will find daily FREE activities in store at Three Four Knock on the Door to keep the little ones entertained. WHEN: Reading: Mon, Thurs, Fri & Sat at 10amaimed at babies, toddlers and pre-schoolers with lots of singing with puppets and there's a wide array of books for us to choose from. Activities: Tues, Wed & Sun at 12pm- Every week there is a new activity, including items such as making bookmarks, bunny ears, masks and necklaces COST: FREE and include fresh fruit and water for the kids, and tea/coffee facilities for the parents

Cook right, once a night! By Wendy Blume As if time-poor mum’s didn’t already have enough on their plates, it seems as though many of us are spending WAY too much time in the kitchen playing the role of short order cook for our fussy families! There are many bad eating and cooking habits that develop slowly in households over time. Cooking multiple meals is one of the most common. Often parents never stop catering for their ‘babies’ and find themselves still in the habit of cooking two meals every night, even once the children are at school. While parents making efforts to keep everyone happy should be congratulated, the whole epic dinner-time quickly becomes The good news is that with a bit of a burden that is endured rather than planning, kitchen slavery can be a thing enjoyed. of the past. Ideally, you’re aiming to find a stash of meals that everyone loves, but while you’re on the road to finding those, you can explore a range of flexible recipes, that can either be enjoyed by everyone, or easily modified or adapted at the time you serve them. This is one of the key reasons why Vegie Smuggler recipes are so perfect for families – healthy meals, enjoyed by children and easily adapted for parents. This ravioli with orange sauce recipe displays a few important Vegie-Smuggling principles… 14

This ravioli with orange sauce recipe displays a few important VegieSmuggling principles… 1.There’s a combination of hidden and invisible healthy ingredients. Kids need to learn that vegies are a part of every day. They need to understand that they will be served them every night. Over time they will learn to enjoy a wide range of ingredients. But often these visible vegies will be pushed aside, which is why the invisible vegies are so important. You can relax, knowing that even with only half the meal eaten, they are getting a large whack of vitamins and minerals. 2. You’re able to serve healthy meals no matter how busy your schedule is. This orange sauce can be made ahead and stored in the fridge. The vegies can also be chopped up and kept in containers in the fridge. This means at the end of the day, you can dash in, cook the ravioli and have dinner served in less than 15 minutes. It’s so important to plan for success. Utilise the freezer and ‘make-ahead’ meals to keep good food on the table all week. Also buy wisely at the supermarket – using ravioli in this recipe saves time and also lures kids into the healthy sauce. In an ideal world, you’d make everything from scratch and avoid fats and chemicals, but I’m a realist about how households run, especially on nights when you’ve all been at work all day. 3. Flexible recipes mean one delicious meal for everyone. Most of my recipes come with a list of optional ingredients, or suggestions for how to ‘gourmet’ up a basic dinner. This ravioli can be topped with cherry tomatoes, grated carrot, cubed feta, olives, basil, toasted pinenuts or chopped chilli – whatever works for the various members of your family. Hope you enjoy it!

Ravioli with Orange Sauce 1½ red capsicums, deseeded, cut into large chunks ¼ cup cottage cheese (or ricotta) 1 tbsp sun-dried tomato slices in oil 600g packet beef ravioli 125g can corn kernels, drained 1 punnet cherry tomatoes, halved TO SERVE (all optional, to suit different family members) basil leaves, olives, toasted pine nuts, parmesan cheese and freshly ground black pepper. Preheat grill to high. Pop the capsicum under the grill skin-side up and leave until black and charred. Don’t be shy about it – the blacker the skin, the more easily it will peel off. Remove and cover with a tea towel for 10 minutes, then peel skin off and discard. Chop capsicum flesh roughly and place in a stick blender. Blitz until smooth. Add cottage cheese and sun-dried tomato and blend until smooth. Cook pasta according to packet directions, then drain and return to the saucepan. Pour the sauce and vegies on top and toss to combine. Scatter with basil. SERVES 2 ADULTS & 2 KIDS For more free recipes and to buy the Vegie Smugglers cookbook, visit www.vegiesmugglers.com.au

Wooden Toys Sturdy and tough...toys that will last the years ahead! 1.

1. Wooden Birthday Cake-Little Styles RRP-$20.95 2. Voila Wooden Workbench-Eco Toys RRP-$194.95 3. Educo Gourmet Salad Set-Peanut Gallery RRP-$38.95 4. Clown Skittles-OXFAM Shop$ RRP-$32.50 5. Police Click Clack Car-Mudd Kids RRP-$12.95 6. Dinner Puzzle-My Wooden Toys $17.95

See and Do

So the school holidays are here and you may be wondering what to do for the next two weeks. Follow our school holiday activity trail for some fun activities but donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t forget to STOP, REVIVE, SURVIVE! Jemma from LITTLE EATS will give you some different options on where to refresh yourself and the little ones after a morning or afternoon of activities.

Put your PlayStation aside and experience the way children played over a hundred years ago! These school holidays Werribee Park Mansion is offering families the chance to play traditional board games including Round the World with Nellie Bly, Office Boy, The Race for the Cup, Kilkenny Cats and The Mansion of Happiness. You can also try your hand at some string operated wooden spinning tops. CLICK HERE for more info Little Eats Tip - In keeping with the old school traditional theme, why not pack yourself a little picnic to take and enjoy. Cucumber sandwiches, mini bacon and egg pies, small tea-cakes and a warming thermos of Hot Chocolate, whatever you fancy! Sometimes nothing beats a home made lunch, eaten on a blanket in the fresh air. Enjoy

A fabulous activity the whole family can enjoy! Families can work together in teams or independently to complete a trail across the various buildings at Heide, with the help of cryptic clues and a map. Correctly completed trails win a prize in the Heide Kids Lucky Dip. CLICK HERE for more information. Little Eats Tip - Mini detectives and junior culture vultures can drop into Shannon Bennett's famous Cafe Vue to re-fuel, located on site at Heide, for an a la carte lunch, French sweet treat, or pick up a gourmet lunch box in both kid and adult size to enjoy in the stunning Heide grounds. CLICK HERE for more information 18

See and Do Healesville Sanctuary has gone hopping mad for kangaroos these school holidays. Join the mob and visit the newly expanded kangaroo playground. For your little joeys there’s a giant jumping pillow, plus some fun new play stuff that’s all about how you compare to kangaroos. How high can you bounce? How long is your hop? How does your foot size measure up? Find out when you hop in for a whole lot of fun. Don’t forget Kids are Free these school holidays! Little Eats Tip - All Kangaroo-ed out? Head to the uber cool Giant Steps/Innocent Bystander winery for some parent-pleasing relief in the form of an excellent drop of Vino (love their pink Moscato) for the parents and killer cheesburger and frites followed by freckle ice-creams for the kids. To read the full Little Eats review CLICK HERE.

If you are heading to the ‘Explor-a-saurus Exhibition’ at Scienceworks these school holidays, make sure you visit the Jaws, Claws and Roars show; an entertaining live show all about dinosaurs. There’s so much more to a dinosaur. What will you discover? Come exploring in this 20-minute live show, packed with upROARious fun! For more information CLICK HERE. Little Eats Tip - After you've visited the dinosaurs, why not visit Leroy too? Just around the corner in neighbouring Newport lies a kids (and parents) haven in Leroy's. Sandpit out the back, toys, slide, play area, crayons, kids menus, babycinos, cupcakes and more... they've got the lot! To read the full Little Eats review CLICK HERE.

Every school holidays the Tivoli Theatre in Malvern puts on a fabulous pantomime the kids will love. These school holidays hear the tale of Puss in Boots from the 4th-15th July. For $18 a ticket you will get a fabulous show, a traditional drink and fairy bread. Bookings essential. For more information CLICK HERE. Little Eats Tip - Meooowww... get your boots on and head on over to Cubbyhouse Canteen in Armadale. After sitting still watching the panto, the kids will love running wild in the park... That’s right Cubbyhouse Canteen is situated bang smack in the middle of a fab park and not one but two playgrounds. To read the full Little Eats review CLICK HERE 19

Markets, Festivals & Fairs-July

Yarraville Markets •Saturday 9th July- Masonic Hall, Corner of Canterbury and Willis St, Yarraville 10am-5pm Boutique Markets Launch •Sunday 10th July- Hawthorn Town Hall-360 Burwood Rd Hawthorn 9am-1pm Baby and Kids Market •Saturday 23rd July- Coburg Town Hall 90 Bell St, Coburg 9am-1pm •Sunday 31st July- Malvern Town Hall, Cnr Glenferrie Rd and High St, Malvern 9am-1pm. Bumble Bee Baby & Kids Market •Saturday 23rd July- Cranbourne Public Hall 166 - 178 South Gippsland Hwy, Cranbourne 9am-1pm •Saturday 30th July- Seaford Community Centre Cnr Station & Broughton Sts, Seaford 9am-1pm

Recommended Reading Chris Kennett (Scholastic) RRP- $16.99 ALPHA MONSTERS is the first published children’s book from Bendigo Author/Animator/Illustrator Chris Kennett. ALPHA MONSTERS is the tale of Freddy Jackson who after getting caught in a thunderstorm falls into another world and goes on a rhythmical journey with Alpha-Monster A who needs Freddy’s help. In the search of AlphaMonster A’s teddy, we meet the other monsters from A-Z. Find out if the Freddy and the monsters can help Alpha-Monster A find his teddy before dinnertime. For more information on where to find this book CLICK HERE.

The Quirkiest of QUIRKIES is on

sale!

Save up to 70% storewide on big brands and QUIRKY favourites incl Egg Chairs, Makemeiconic Trams, SEVI, 'Crazy Forts, Pettiskirts + much much more‘ Simply type 'alphabet' into the discount code at the checkout to save a minimum 20% storewide. Prices as marked in our Specials category with discounts up to 70%.

www.quirkykidsonline.com.au

Offer ends 31/7/2011 or while stocks last. Special order items are excluded from this sale.

School holidays may mean no school routine with packing lunches, pressed uniforms and homework duties but it may also mean finding activities to entertain the kids for two weeks. This does not necessarily mean paying out lots of money for paid activities. Alphabet Street has found some free and cheap activities to see and do making the school holidays a whole more affordable!

These holidays, ACMI invites kids and families to unleash their inner architect! Working with local artists Rachel Feery and Lisa Stewart, who will lay the ‘foundations’ of the city, participants will use cardboard and everyday materials to create a new world. Build your own piece of ‘utopia’ and watch as the cardboard city grows bigger each day in the ACMI Lightwell. Recommended for families and kids aged 3 years and up. Note: first in best dressed – no phone or online bookings are taken in Utopia.. CLICK HERE for more information

Winter sees Queen Victoria Market get wrapped up in Footy Fever. Bring the family down to Queen Victoria Market over the Winter School Holidays to celebrate your love of the game and meet some of your favourite players. There will be a range of activities in L-Shed including the AFL Mascot Manor Handball Competition, AFL Photo Kiosk and Storytime with Dwayne Russell. in Utopia.. CLICK HERE for more information

Spend the morning at The National Gallery of Victoria with a FREE viewing of Toy Story 3 at 10.30am and then at 12pm ARTSPARKS: Vienna Kids will be running for those little ones who are interested in getting to know your art gallery. Collect the NGV Kids Discovery Activity and visit Vienna: Art and Design or explore colour and pattern in NGV Kids Space. CLICK HERE for more information

Introduce the kids to the magic of gardening with our popular FREE Kid's Gardening Classes. Kids will learn about which plants come from different parts of the world, including Australian natives. They'll have lots of fun potting up their very own vegetable seedling to take home and learn how to take care of it. CLICK HERE for more information

Head to your local Toys 'R' Us for loads of fun and games these school holidays with Mighty Beanz, Beados Mineez and Crayola! There will be free Mighty Beanz, Beedos Mineez and Crayola workshops on the 14th & 16th July between 10am-1pm. CLICK HERE for more information

What do a fairy, an elephant and a sea monster have in common? They can all be made into sock puppets! Drop in and join the ArtPlay team for some super silly sock puppet making. Using beads, fabric, wool and recycled bits and pieces, you can make and take home a new fuzzy friend . CLICK HERE for more information

Give the kids a fun and educational riding experience at the 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. CLICK HERE for more information 23

2. 1.

Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Wall Decals

1.Cocoon Couture:Magic Circus Wall Sticker-RRP$59.95 2. 41 Orchard:Giant Toadstool-RRP$60 3.Love Mae: Spring Dress Up DollRRP$44.95 4. My Munchkin Home:Birdcage RRP$49.95 5. Little Chipipi: Drive Time- RRP$84.95 6. Bosco Bear:Russian Dolls Room ArtRRP$69.95 7.For Walls:Forest Friends-RRP$54.95

Retro Toys Do you remember?...

Then: Game and Watch was a line of handheld Now: The Nintendo DS is a portable game electronic games produced by Nintendo from 1980 to 1991. Created by game designer Gunpei Yokoi, each Game & Watch features a single game to be played on an LCD screen in addition to a clock and an alarm (thus, "Game & Watch"). Titles available in Game & Watch form vary from Mickey Mouse , Snoopy Tennis to Nintendo staples such as Donkey Kong, The Legend of Zelda, and Mario Bros. (WIKIPEDIA)

console produced by Nintendo, first released on November 21, 2004. A distinctive feature of the system is the presence of two separate LCD screens, the lower of which is a touchscreen, encompassed within a clamshell design. The Nintendo DS also features a built-in microphone and supports wireless standards, allowing players to interact with each other within short range, or online with the Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection service. (WIKIPEDIA)

All Aboard....... Many children, particularly boys, have a fascination with trains. Melbourne and the surrounding areas provide plenty of opportunities to become immersed in the world of these fabulous machines. Options range from a ride on full size steam trains, historic diesel trains, miniature trains, huge model railways and train themed playgrounds. This month Melbourne Playgrounds will give you the full wrap up on where to go for anything train related. There are a number of volunteer organisations around Melbourne & surrounding areas that provide rides on miniature diesel or steam trains each weekend. A few of our favourites include; 1.

Diamond Valley Miniature Railway Location: Eltham Lower Park, Eltham Cost: $3.00 per passenger. Children under 2 years ride free. Running Schedule: Every Sunday CLICK HERE for more info

Bulla Hill Railway Location: Green Street, Bulla Cost: $3.00 per passenger. Running Schedule: First and third Sunday of each month. CLICK HERE for more info

Altona Miniature Railway Location: Blenheim Rd, Altona North Cost: $2.50 per ride or 11 rides for $25. Babies under 12 months ride free.. Running Schedule: Third Sunday of each month. CLICK HERE for more information

Box Hill Miniature Railway Location: Cnr Belmore Rd and Elgar Rd, Box Hill Cost: $3 per ride Running Schedule: Third Sunday of each month. CLICK HERE for more information 26

The following full-size historic or steam trains operate in the Melbourne area: 1.

Puffing Billy Railway Location: Operates between Belgrave and Gembrook with stations in between Cost: Belgrave to Gembrook return for family is $105 Running Schedule: Every day of the year, except Christmas day. Approximately four departures per day. Also has special events scheduled across the year including The Day Out With Thomas in October and November. CLICK HERE for more info

Yarra Valley Tourist Railway Location: Healesville station Cost: Family ticket is $34 Running Schedule: A round trip departs Healesville station every hour from 10.00am to 4.00pm on Sundays, Public Holidays and School Holidays (Wednesday and Sunday). CLICK HERE for more info

Mornington Tourist Railway Location: Operates between Moorooduc and Mornington Stations with Tanti Station midway. Cost: Family return is $39 Running Schedule: Operates on the first three Sundays of the month. Approx. 4-5 departures per day. CLICK HERE for more info

Bellarine Railway Location: Operates between Queenscliff To Drysdale with a stop at Lakers Siding. Cost: Family return is $35 - 50 depending on the distance travelled Running Schedule: Operates on Sundays, Public Holidays and Tuesday / Thursday during School Holidays. CLICK HERE for more info

For the die-hard train fanatics or those on holidays there are also a number of railways outside of Melbourne that have regular running schedules. For a detailed run down on all things trains, make sure you head straight to the TRANSPORT section in Melbourne Playgrounds. You will also find a number of train themed playgrounds the kids will just love! You will also find some great information about running Schedules for Steamrail Victoria on their website. Steamrail Victoria run Heritage Steam and Diesel trains around Victoria and Melbourne's metropolitan area. 27

Movie Magic! Ahhhh...the smell of popcorn, the taste of choc tops and your favourite kids’ movie on big screen make for memorable family outings! However, we all know that this can be a costly outing so we have listed a couple of options that maybe a little more affordable than just buying tickets to the latest kids’ flick.

•Village Cinemas Kidz Flix See one of the great selected family favourites for only $5 each weekend and daily in the school holidays at Village Cinemas! Movies are usually the first film scheduled and are mostly kids’ films that have been released for a little while.

•Hoyts Jnr Hoyts Jnr is cinema especially for pre-school kids! See all your favourite characters on the big screen, every Saturday & Sunday morning at 10am. All tickets are only $6.50. Upcoming Hoyts Jnr movies include Thomas & Friends: Day if the Diesels in July and Bob The Builder: The Big Dino Dig in October.

•ACMI Kids’ Flicks The ACMI Kids' Flicks program is guaranteed to delight and captivate the imagination of children and grown-ups alike. Movies run on Sundays and school holidays and are priced at $6 per movie for non ACMI Members and $5 for ACMI Members. Movies vary from Disney Classics to the Disney/Pixar favourites but you can guarantee that there is always a movies scheduled that the whole family will enjoy!

Monthly Competition

Agoo legwarmers, made from soft, silky and sustainable bamboo. These one size fits all funky accessory for girls and boys aged 0-tweens are great for arms too! The hardest part will be choosing which designs you want. Agoo Australia is excited to introduce Agoo Direct, an alternative to chocolate fundraisers for your childcare, pre-school or playgroup, in fact any group who wishes to harness the power of bulk buying! To celebrate we are offering 2 Alphabet Street subscribers a 3 pair legwarmer packs, valued at $45 per pack, suitable for girls and boys aged newborn to tweens. Visit http://www.agoo.com.au/agoo-direct and tell us what features make our products are perfect for kids in care. 29

Monthly Competition

Wall decals are a great idea for decorating your baby’s nursery , child’s room or playroom. 41 Orchard have a quality range of modern, well designed wall stickers so you are sure to find something to fit in with your nursery decor. Owls, mushrooms, tree’s and woodland forests... Choose a design to help create the look and feel you want for your child’s space. 41 Orchard decals are made from a self adhesive fabric, they are completely removable with no damage to your wall surface and will not curl over time like some vinyl ones. This month, up for grabs is a $100 voucher to spend with 41 Orchard. To get inspired and see their whimsical collection, head to www.41orchard.com

Monthly Competition

fruut, is a new storage system which will revolutionise home storage... as beautiful as it is practical. The fruut sacks are a toy bag that converts to a play mat and back again, allowing you to store, transport and play in one functional bag. Perfect for toys with hundreds of small pieces such as lego, dolls clothes, tea sets and the like, fruut sacks allow you to keep most of the pieces on the play mat during playtime making pack away a breeze. Simply pull the string and hang. The fruut sacks are also great for taking toys on holiday or to the park. Just grab a sack and go. Available in Luminous Green, Luscious Red, Princess Pink or Cool Blue. Fruut sacks can be hung on the stylish fruut tree or for the spacially challenged, on the fruut hooks where they can place the fruut sacks up a narrow wall, on a bed end, on a solid door etc. Live Play Create intend to expand with a conscience and for the fruut system have chosen to support Focus Cambodia, to help transform the lives of the children of Cambodia under their 'Tree of Life' campaign. LIVE PLAY CREATE are creators of unique, stylish and sustainable wooden toys and homewares to make kids lives simple and stylishly fun. They are dedicated to creating quality memories for today's busy parents and their adventure hungry kids. This month one lucky subscriber will win 2 x fruut storage sacks and a set of 4 leaf hooks valued at $125. For more information go to www.liveplaycreate.com.au 31

Monthly Competition

jacob & bonomi celebrates timeless nature and modern design in a gorgeous array of children’s blankets and linen. Sydney designer Emma Gordon is inspired by the Nordic tradition of simple but striking composition. The former photographer and mother of two creates modern designs that embrace childhood without making it childish. jacob & bonomi’s light and uncluttered textiles will be the centrepiece of your child’s bedroom for years to come. All the blankets and fabrics are designed in Sydney, Australia. jacob & bonomi strive to offer bed linen, blankets and quilts for babies and children that are unique in design without compromising quality. All the linen is made from the softest 100% cotton percale with a 250 thread count. The blankets are also made from 100% cotton, they are double layered offering extra warmth in the cooler months. The cot quilts are filled with 100% Australian wool with a 100% cotton outer. All the products are machine washable. This month one lucky subscriber will have the chance of winning a 100% Australian Wool Filled Cot Quilt valued at $78.00. The quilt is beautifully light weight yet is super cozy as it has a gsm rating of 300 which is equal to the weight of 2 wool blankets. For more information go to www.jacobandbonomi.com.au 32

Monthly Competition

Looking for a safer and more natural alternative to the mass produced plastic toys that end up in landfill? Then you’ll love this month’s competition to win a $100 Eco Toys store voucher. Eco Toys, located in Melbourne’s Hawthorn East provides beautifully crafted, natural and sustainable toys and baby products. Their toys are made to last a lifetime and inspire creativity and curiosity in children. What’s more all the materials used are completely natural and non-toxic so you can be rest assured that your child is not being exposed to harmful chemicals while they play. Their toys are perfect for teething babies as the only stock certified organic cotton soft toys and even have a range of baby rattles that are only finished with natural beeswax. They also sell a large range of organic baby products which includes things such as organic clothing, slings, BPA free glass bottles & rubber soothers, organic skincare, blankets and of course toys. Eco Toys also ships Australia wide so customers can order their beautiful toys from the comfort of their own home at http://www.ecotoys.com.au/store/ This month one lucky subscriber will have the chance of winning $100 gift voucher to spend in store or online. 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 31st July2011

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