August 2011

http://www.almondtreeframes.com.au/

Welcome to the August issue of the AlphabetStreet Mini Mag !

What a busy July we have had! The months are flying and soon the next school holidays and dare I say Christmas will be among us! We had a great time at the High Tea Party with our special guests on the 23rd July and highly recommend it for future years.

I have definitely been enjoying the lovely Spring like weather we have been experiencing in August. Spring will also bring a number of fabulous activities you will love and perhaps enjoy a little bit sunshine in the process.

This month we have some great articles by Amy Finnegan from Travel with Tots, Nathalie Brown from Easy Peasy Kids and a fabulous book review by We Heart Books!

Another month brings another monthlycompetition with some gorgeous prizes by Kidsagogo, Little People’s Linen, Piggywinkles and Little Living.

We hope you enjoy the August issue ofthe Alphabet Street Mini Mag and stay tuned for another fabulous issue forSeptember.

Penny PriceOWNER

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COVER: Our Model Scarlett

wears Little Frenchy organic Skirt (strawberry), organic cardigan (moss), organic

popeline blouse (strawberry cream) and organic leggings.

Alphabet Street Privacy Statement: This issue of the Alphabet Street Mini Mag may containoffers 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 Streetwill use this information to provide you will the products and services you have requested. We will notonsell you details to a third party and will used for our publication only.

Editorial: Penny Price

All editorial and advertising enquiries

e:info@alphabetstreet.com.auABN: 89826197104

Photography: Alexandrena

Parker

Mini Mag

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.

Nathalie Brown is a Childhood Behaviour Consultant, Teenage Mentor Parent Counsellor and owner of Easy Peasy Kids. For more information go to www.easypeasykids.com.au

Amy, the founder of Travel with Tots is an ex travel agent with a background in journalism and mum to an active 1 year old boy named Luka.She is also the founder of www.travelwithtots.com.au , a comprehensive website that details handy tips and advice when travelling with kids.

We Heart Books is owned and operated by Katie and Lou, two Melbourne mums with a great passion for children’s literature. Books were an essential part of our childhoods and we enjoy passing on a love of literature to our children too.www.weheartbooks.com.au

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Saltwater Sandals PinkAvailable from

www.littlepinwheel.com.auRRP-$69

Chook Leaf Embden-RedAvailable from

www.starfishkidsonline.com.auRRP-$75.95

Chilli Kids Available from www.chillikids.com.au

RRP-$69

Lydia -WhiteAvailable from

www.chillikids.com.auRRP-$59.95

GwenAvailable from

www.seekairun.coml.auRRP-$64.95

Baby Ballet-Silver SparkleAvailable from

www.cheekylittlesoles.com.auRRP-$35.95

Trainer Navy WalkersAvailable from

www.cheekylittlesoles.com.auRRP-$54.95

Apple Cruise ShoesAvailable from

www.walnutmelbourne.com.auRP-$29.95

White & Navy Spot Mary Janes Available from

www.walnutmelbourne.com.auRRP-$29.95

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It’s All About..... littlelki boutique is the beautiful collaboration of two sisters, Emma & Georgina, whom share the desire to design and create beautiful clothing, homewares & accessories. Influenced from days gone by, the finest fabrics are sought to combine with Liberty of London™ prints.

1. Pantaloon – Betsy-RRP $35.95, 2.Linen Dress with Bow-RRP $59.95 & Sleeveless

Dress -RRP $79.95, 3. Ra-ra skirt with belt -RRP-$49.95 4. Voile Dress with Ruffle SleeveRRP $59.95 5. Dress with Yoke + Sleeve -RRP $79.956. Cotton Camisole-RRP $49.95

7. Rompersuit-Wiltshire- RRP $59.95 8. Tailored Linen Boys Shorts –RRP$54.95

9. Unisex Shirts-RRP $49.957

WHAT:GRUG at the Arts CentreBased on the much–loved picture book character created by Ted Prior and making its Melbourne premiere, this exciting puppetry show takes you into Grug’s world.

WHEN: Tue 9, Wed 10 & Fri 12 Aug, 10.30am & 1.30pm ,Thur 11 Aug, 10am, 12noon & 2pm, Sat 13 Aug, 10am, 12noon & 2pm

WHERE: The Arts Centre

COST: Adult: $18.00, Child: $18.00, Group (4+): $16.00

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)

WHAT: Everyone Can Dance-ARTPLAYHip Hop your way through this awesome dance workshop. Mums, dads and kids will get down and learn step by step moves that will have you getting funky to the latest dance tunes

WHEN:Sunday 21 August: 1pm to 2pm and 2.30pm to 3.30pm

WHERE:ARTPLAY-

COST:Tickets-$10 per child Bookings essential8

WHAT: The Closed Loop Cool Kids Day is a ripper day of fun, games, thought, play and education for the entire family! The Town Hall will be turned into a tropical green zone (the heater will be on) from 10 am to 2 pm. If you loved the midweek Enviroweek launch last year you will absolutely love this cool day out.

WHEN:Sunday 28th August 10am-2pm

WHERE: St Kilda Town Hall

COST: Adults:$25, Children:$10, Family:$60 (two adults & two children), Concession:$20

WHAT: Playgroup Victoria-Play Day at Melbourne Zoo. Come to Melbourne Zoo and see elephants, gorillas, tigers and more, and make friends with our new baby animals.

WHEN:Wednesday 17th August 10am-1pm

WHERE:Melbourne Zoo

COST:20% Off for Playgroup Victoria Members and children under four are free! CLICK HERE for admission prices

WHAT: Heralded by the shrills of excited pre-schoolers up and down the east coast and from the nation's capital, Justine Clarke will sing and dance her way into children's gleeful hearts once more, stepping out on her Little Day Out Tour 2011.

WHEN:Oct 5, 10am & 12pm

WHERE:Dallas Brooks Centre Melbourne

COST: All tickets $28

WHAT: The Wiggles : In the Big Tent Birthday Party -The Wiggles are celebrating their birthday and Australia, you're invited to the party!

WHEN:Dec 1st-Dec 4th 10am & 1.30pm

WHERE: Flemington Race Course

COST: CLICK HERE

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Introducing...

Established in 2007,our online store was born around the same time as our second son, Rudy and is continually inspired by him, his older brother Hugo, who has pronounced his name as "Dodo" from a very young age and now baby Jonty who has recently joined our tribe. We specialise in terribly fabulous toys, gifts, decor and accessories for little individuals aged 0-5 years, with an expanding rangefor older kids (6yrs +) andmamas.

Q & A with JuliaWhat was the inspiration behind opening Rudy and the Dodo? JULIA: As a serious shopaholic in days gone by (ie pre-baby) I was constantly frustrated by a lack of childfree shopping time and energy when searching for fabulous goodies for my own children and gifts for family and friends. I had also left a management position to have my babies and felt I needed an interest to stimulate my mind in between pureeing pumpkin! What do you look for when selecting products for your online store? JULIA: I literally search the globe for unique and quirky items not found in the mainstream stores. We stock wooden toys, tin toys, felt, knitted and handmade toys, artworks and original decor ideas. We don’t stock anything plastic. What is the hardest thing about being a work from home mum? JULIA: Good old Mother Guilt. Guilty I am not giving the kids enough time and attention, or conversely, that I am not giving the business enough! I rarely get a chance to switch off altogether. Once the kids are in bed, I start work again. What is one item from Rudy and The Dodo that you would send Harper Seven Beckham and why? JULIA: Oh, it would have to be the set of three French suitcases. She could use them on all those international jaunts that lay ahead, or just to carry her designer dollies around at home. Everygirl must have a fabulous suitcase and if it’s French, even better!

Julia Whitney

Fabulous Mama

& Owner of Rudy

and the Dodo

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See and Do

What little boy isn’t obsessed with Thomas the Tank Engine from a young age?If your little one knows every “steamie” or diesel on the Island of Sodor, then flying thousands of kilometres to Thomas World in Drayton Manor Theme Park in Staffordshire UK might have to be on the travel agenda. Families can experience the magic of Sodor and interact with their favourite

characters as never before.Set in 6,000 square metres of beautiful parkland, Thomas Land is a multi-million pound attraction promising fun and adventure for the young and young at heart. It boasts 12 wonderful themed rides, a spectacular indoor play area and a shop filled with fantastic Thomas & Friends merchandise.Your little one will love getting up close to the

Sodor Characters on each of the rides. Fly High with Jeremy and control your flight over Sodor, ride on the 220 metre roller coaster that runs up and over Thomas Land, drop and bounce from the 8 metre high Cranky the Crane Drop Tower plus so much more.Drayton Manor Park opens on the 19th March-30th October 2011.http://www.draytonmanor.co.uk/

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Featured Activity-Mums & Bubs

Cinema Sessions

Many of us find the idea of going to the movies with a baby/toddler an experience that just seems too hard. However this just may be just what the doctor has ordered after sleepless nights and isolation around your little ones sleeping patterns and routines. But who is going to put up with unsettled bubs/toddlers just as the crucial part of the movie is about to happen?We have listed below the cinemas that have special screenings just for Mums and their little ones to enjoy with other mums and their little ones. There will be no “ssshhhhh” sounds at this session.....

Mums & Bubs Sessions-HOYTS Cinemas

Hoyts is proud to bring you Mums and Bubs sessionstwice a month, on a Thursday (check your local cinemaonline for the session times), and it's not just mums who areinvited. Any adult carer - mum, dad, granny, nanny, auntie iswelcome. It's $9.00 for adults and kids under 5 areabsolutely free. There's a place to change a nappy and thelights stay dimmed for feeding. So come and enjoy a well earned break.NB: Hoyts Victoria Gardens in Richmond also has a crying room for those little moments. Located in prime viewing within the two main auditoriums are the perfect facilities for cinema goers with babies. Comfortably seating seven people, each crying room creates a unique and exclusive experience. Crying Room tickets can only be purchased through the Box Office. For more information go to www.hoyts.com.au

Spit the Dummy Sessions-Readings Cinemas.

Each Wednesday morning, Reading Cinemas presents'SPIT THE DUMMY' sessions. Relax and enjoy a movie atReading Cinemas without worrying about feeding in thedark or those unexpected hissy-fits. We'll keep the lights dimmed so that you can see whatyou're doing. Entry is free for up to two children under 5 when accompanied by a paying adult.*. Go to www.readingcinemas.com.au for more information

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Mums & Bubs Sessions-Village Cinemas

Every Wednesday morning you can enjoy a movie at Village Cinemas in a relaxed environment customised to suit you and your little one's needs.All tickets are a low $9. This offer is only available for purchase at the Ticket Box.For more information go to www.villagecinemas.com.au

Babes in Arms Sessions-Palace Cinemas.

Babes in Arms Screenings are designed especially forparents and carers with children with screenings havingdimmed lights to make a more comfortable environment.

Babes in Arms runs on Wednesday mornings at PalaceBalwyn, Dendy Brighton, Kino and Westgarth and is only$10 per ticket when purchased at the box office.

For more information go to www.palacecinemas.com.au

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On the 10th August, Mr Men will celebrate 40 years of publishing!

So how did it all begin?....

Happy Birthday Mr Men!

"What does a tickle look like?“ This was the question asked by a six year-old boy of his father, one morning in 1971 that inspired Roger Hargreaves to create a little orange man with a big toothy grin, a blue hat and extraordinarily long arms. And so, Mr. Tickle, the first of the Mr. Men, was born!

On August 10th 1971, six Mr. Men books were published:Mr Tickle, Mr Greedy. Mr Nosey, Mr Happy, Mr Bump and Mr Sneeze. These first six Mr. Men books were published in United Kingdom in 1971, priced at 20 pence each.

There are a total of 46 Mr. Men books and 33 Little Miss books.

From 1981, an accompanying series of 42 Little Miss books by the same author, but with female characters, were published, although nine of them were not published in English.

After Hargreaves death in 1988 (he was only 53 years of age), his son Adam continued writing and illustrating new stories, including four characters his father had developed before his death.

The Mr Men and Little Miss books continue to entertain children across the world delivering sales of over 100 million worldwide across 28 countries.

Roger Hargreaves sold over 85 million books worldwide in 20 different languages.

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Did you Know?•On what would have been his 76th birthday, 9 May 2011, Google celebrated it with a specialGoogle Doodle on its global homepage.

•The most popular Mr Men book is Mr Tickle andthe most popular Little Miss book is Little Miss Naughty

•The series was originally called the "Mister" series.

•The Little Miss Twins was written for Roger Hargreaves‘twin daughters - Amelia and Sophie.

•Roger Hargreaves' favourite Mr Man was Mr Silly - for hissilly sense of humour.

•In October 2006, Adam Hargreaves created the first Little Miss character based on a real person, Stella McCartney, which he named Little Miss Stella. This was published as a limited edition of 1,000 copies for use as fashion show invitations.

Cake Doodle is a great little app for

budding bakers of all ages. You can choose from 18 cakes to cook, ranging from chocolate to peanut butter. Once you've chosen your cake, you make it. Add ingredients to the bowl by dragging them to it. Tap on eggs to crack them, scroll the screen to sift flour and lots of other fun actions. Agree mixing your ingredients, choose your cake shape and then put it in the oven. Then it's time to decorate. Choose frosting colours, decorations, toppers, even writing. So many fun options to choose from. then the cake is ready to eat This fun little app keeps my 4 year old entertained for a nice chunk of time. Very handy when I'm a line at the bank, grocery shopping etc.. as it's not noisy but still lots of fun.

Available from itunes and costs 99 cents to download

Reviewer: Megan-Mum to Joel

(4)and Noah (6 months)

App reviewed: Cake Doodle

There are many Apps available to parents for iphones and ipads to entertain and educate their children. Some of our Alphabet Street readers share some of their favourites below...

Listen to an extended version of Old

Macdonald in English, 4 other languages, or even record yourself singing the verses for future play. Each page of the app has a different verse and fun activities to do associated with the farm, E.G making the cows do tricks, driving the tractor, and making the frogs hop. Your little one will love hearing the same versus over and over again and making the characters play out the scene!

Available from itunes and costs $1.99 to download

Reviewer: Megan-Mum to Tashi

(4)and Luka (2)

App reviewed: Old McDonald

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This is one of the first free Apps I downloaded for my 3-year old son, and even though he now enjoys more difficult games, he always comes back to have a play with this one.

I Hear Ewe is a simple game, best suited for 2-3 year olds, that lets your toddler select from 24 animals sounds or 12 different vehicle sounds by tapping on the animal or vehicle icon. The game will announce what animal or vehicle has been selected and then play a recording of the sound it makes. A cute free App that is both educational and entertaining.

Available from itunes and is a FREE APP

Reviewer: Jacinta-Mum to

Zac(3)and Isabella (6)

App reviewed: I Hear Ewe

Animal Sounds for Toddlers

Features•You can give her food•You can play games with her•You can give her a drink•You can pat her•You can poke her•She copies everything you say in a funny baby voiceWhat I like about it•You can record videos•It gives you information if you get stuckWhat I don’t like about it•The hand clapping games•How you can’t change the voices

Overall score: 8/10

Available from itunes and is a FREE APP

Reviewer: Charlotte (10)

-Daughter of Shannon from

Minifashionista

App reviewed: Talking Gina the

Giraffe

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'Taking Dinosaur' was the answer I got when I asked Xavier which was his favourite iphone game. He continued..."because he talks and sings to me" "oooh and I can feed him too!" Xavier gets a lot of pleasure out of talking with his friend, and has now discovered dinosaur can recite songs from the radio, as well as his own voice. He can also take photos and record videos of the dinosaur singing. If you have 2 phones, he has worked out that the dinosaurs will even talk to each other...which is quite amusing. But parents beware.......Always turn off the in app store purchases, as you can be charged up to $50 for buying new scenes and food for dinosaur to eat! Xavier has now discovered pass codes and how to change the settings and restrictions in the main menu(to turn security off) and he is only 4......Apple we need even more security! these kids are way too savvy with these modern gadgets!Available from itunes and is costs 99cents to download.

Reviewer: Clara-Mum to

Xavier(4)

App reviewed:Talking Dinosaur

A puzzle game for toddlers. On the light version you get an animal scene to complete. The full version comes with nine different scenes. Each scene is in a theme like Christmas, playground, musical instruments, bedroom, underwater, transport etc

Each scene has between 10 and 12 puzzles to do to complete the scene. Each puzzle has 6 to 8 pieces approximately.

You just touch the puzzle piece you want to use and drag it onto the picture. If you have the sound on when the piece slots into place you will hear a ding noise. When you have completed the puzzle the word flashes up to correspond to the picture and the name of the object is also said out loud. I like it as these two features at the completion of the puzzle is a great learning tool for toddlers.Available from itunes and is FREE to download for ipads.

Reviewer: Kim- (10)

Mum to Riley (6) and Zac(3)

App reviewed: Shape Puzzle

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Featured

ActivitySuper Science Month at SCIENCEWORKS2 Booker Street Spotswood PH: 13 11 02Celebrate the importance of science in our everyday lives.Incorporating National Science Week (13 – 21 August), Super Science Month is an initiative held over 31 consecutive days to foster an appreciation and understanding of science through a variety of fun and engaging activities, workshops, classes, live shows and exhibitions. Some of the fabulous science events the kids can get involved in include;1. BASF Kids’ Labs -Experience the fascinating world of chemistry through simple

and hands-on experiments! 20 Aug - 21 Aug 20112. Inspiring Scientists- Find out about your favourite “ology” by chatting to inspiring

career scientists. Weekends, 20 Aug - 21 Aug 2011 11:00 AM - 4:00 PM3. Make a Magnet- Make your own electromagnet to take home. Weekends, Until 4

Sep 2011 1:00 PM - 3:00 PMTo see the full range of science activities and performances or to make a booking

CLICK HERE

Travel with Tots!By Amy Finnegan

Travel with your little ones is often a daunting prospect so, Travel with Tots have put together some of our favourite tips to help your holiday with little ones go smoothly. Our number one tip no matter how you plan on getting to your destination is to relax and enjoy yourself.

Hints for all travellers; Take your babies fitted cot sheet with you; not a clean one but one he /she has slept on for at least a night so it smells like them, their bed and home. For toddlers you may like to take their pillow case, neither take up too much space in your luggage. situation.

Get babies and kids used to sleeping in a number of ways and places, will your baby sleep in your arms? Or on a bed? When travelling it is a huge advantage to have adaptable kids that will sleep in any situation.Go shopping before you leave home; buy a couple of small new toys and keep them hidden. Don’t bring them out until you are on the flight or in the car and the kids are getting frustrated and really bored, for older kids you may like to wrap them to increase the excitement

Tips for flying with childrenChange your baby right before boarding; it is much easier to change a nappy at the airport airport than it is in the planetoilets so give yourself the maximum amount of time between in-flight nappy changes. 20

0

If your child has only recently been potty trained, you may want to consider putting them in pull ups or a nappy for the flight in case turbulence or delays stop them from being able to leave their seat. Take plenty of snacks; children’s appetites may vary to the timing of the dinner cart plus, snacking fills in some time.Breast or bottle feed on take-off and landing, or offer a dummy if your baby uses one; this will help them deal with the changes in cabin pressure. Older children can be given a chewy sweet or a lollipop to help pop their ears.

Managing long car trips with kidsIn the car make sure a bag of essentials is easily reachable with extra nappies, wipes, a change of clothes, a face cloth, paracetamol, spare dummies and a couple of plastic bags in case of wet or messy accidents. Where possible, pack the car so that one parent can move to the back seat to keep an unhappy baby company if required.Pack food for yourself so that if the kids are happily sleeping at meal times, you can keep driving until babies or kids are awake and sick of the car.If your baby doesn’t like to be in the car in the dark, try switching on the overhead reading light or if that is too distracting for the driver, bring a battery operated night light and put it in the back seat with bub.

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Travel with Tots is a comprehensive web resource for anyone travelling with children. The site features travel tips; product, hotel and airline reviews; destination details; travel tales written by parents and a travel ideas and inspiration section. Travel with Tots covers a huge range of topics from travel with Asthma and Autism to tips for solo parent travel. The site also has expert articles on topics such as travel health and vaccinations, finding a babysitter abroad and breastfeeding during travel. For your complete resource when travelling with children visit www.travelwithtots.com.au.

Holiday FavouritesIt’s quite difficult to find holiday destinations the whole family will enjoy. We’ve asked Jemma from Little Eats to share her favourite family friendly holiday experience with us!

Bali

We LOVE Bali, the beautiful island of the Gods in Indonesia and have been many, many times over the years (we are in double digits now!). We loved it before kids, and love it even more now that we have kids - it's the perfect spot for a relaxing family holiday complete with shopping, pampering, culture and cuisine and a healthy dose of sunshine!

We usually stay in the Seminyak/Canggu area in a private villa, as we prefer that style of accommodation to a hotel, as we are in our own house with a kitchen, lounge area with TV and DVD, separate air conditioned bedrooms, our own private swimming pool and... wait for it... they are fully staffed with cooks, maids and this one even came with a driver!

It really is a perfect option when you are travelling with little ones as it means that you can put them down for a nap in the bedroom, while you can still read, swim and relax right next to them. It also means that in the evening once the baby is tucked up asleep in their port-a-cot in the cool bedroom, you can still hang out in the lounge area, have a nightcap, watch a DVD or even have a midnight swim. It sure beats being stuck in a hotel room.

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Spot It Travel GameAvailable from IckleKidsRRP $7.99

100 things for little children to do on a journeyAvailable from Ickle Kids RRP $14.99

Travel DoodlesAvailable from LittleGulliverRRP $14.99

Travel Sticker BookAvailable from Little GulliverRRP $12.99

Tiger Tribe Magna Play Case - Garden Available from PeanutGallery RRP $34.95

Alex Toys Desk to Go- Portable Drawing Board Available from Haggus &Stookles RRP $29.95

Tiger Tribe Wipe Away Kids Activity Book - On The Move Available from Haggus& Stookles RRP $19.95

Travel BingoAvailable from EntropyRRP $26.95

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Def: Felt is a non-woven cloth that is

produced by matting, condensing and

pressing woollen fibres. (Wikipedia)

More and more children’s brands are utilising felt to create gorgeous

children’s toys and accessories! Here are our top felt picks!

3.2.1.

7.

4.

Down to the WoodsPixel OttomanRRP-$280BUY NOW

TumblemonkeyPink & Teal felt ball garlandRRP $20USDBUY NOW

Rudy & the DodoFelt House BagRRP-$79.95BUY NOW

Mulberry RoadBabushka Finger PuppetsRRP-$13.50BUY NOW

5.PuddlebeachBabushka Doll in Handmade Wool Felt from Papoose RRP-$73.92BUY NOW

6.

Life’s a StitchRoll Up Roll Up Sushi PackRRP-$20.00BUY NOW

EcotoysPretend Play Felt CornRRP-$12.95BUY NOW

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Yarraville Markets•Saturday 13th August- Masonic Hall, Corner of Canterbury and Willis St, Yarraville 10am-5pm

Fairy Floss Markets•Sunday 14th August- The Manningham 1 Thompsons Road

BULLEEN 9am-2pm

Melbourne Mamma’s Market•Sunday, 21 August 2011 10.30am - 2.30pm (VIP Entry from

10.00am) Ukrainian Hall, Essendon

Bumble Bee Baby & Kids Market•Sunday 14th August- Berwick Fields Primary School 35 Gwendoline

Drive, Berwick 9am-1pm

•Saturday 27th August- Brandon Park Community Centre 649 Ferntree

Gully Rd, Glen Waverley 12.30pm-3.30pm

•Sunday 21st August- Melton Community Hall 323 High Street Melton

9am-1pm

•Sunday 28th August- Mornington RaceCourse Corner Racecourse

and Bungower Roads, Mornington 9am-1pm

Makers Market at Abbotsford Convent•Saturday 23rd July- Cranbourne Public Hall 166 - 178 South

Gippsland Hwy, Cranbourne 9am-1pm

Mathikda’s Market•Sunday 21st August-Hawthorn Town Hall, 360 Burwood Rd 9am-1pm

Magnolia Square•Sat 20th-Sun 21st August-THE CENTRE in Ivanhoe 275 Upper

Heidelberg Rd (Sat 10am-5pm Sun 10am-4pm)

MarketsFestivals

&Fairs

Recommended Reading

Me...JanePatrick McDonnell RRP- $29.99

At We Heart Books, we love to make beautiful books a part of every

day! A trip to the zoo can provide the inspiration for reading lots of favourite animal books, but a new book about legendary conservationist, Dr Jane Goodall, is the ultimate companion read - combining an inspiring message with a heartfelt true story.‘Me… Jane’ is written and illustrated by Patrick McDonnell, perhaps most famous for his ‘Mutts’ comic strip. Himself an avid animal lover, he has created a wonderful picture book celebrating the childhood of Jane. From the very first page, children will relate to the little girl Jane, who is inseparable from her stuffed toy chimp, Jubilee. Jane and Jubilee discover elements of the natural world, including the miracle of where eggs come from! Real photos of Jane sprinkled throughout the book, as well as a message on the final pages from Jane herself will prompt lots of discussion with littlies. As well as a biography, this book carries an inspiring message of the power of making childhood dreams a reality. Priceless!Me… Jane is available from We Heart Books for $29.99.

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http://www.littlesooti.com.au/

Then: Strawberry Shortcake The original

design of Strawberry Shortcake and her cat, Custard was launched in 1977 by Muriel Fahrion. The first doll had a rag doll appearance. The Strawberry Shortcake line of characters each had their own fruity or dessert-themed name with clothing to match, and they each had a dessert- or fruit-named pet. Like the Strawberry Shortcake doll, all the other characters' dolls had hair scented to match their dessert theme. The characters lived and played in a magical world known as Strawberryland.

Retro Toys Do you remember?...

Now: Strawberry Shortcake has since had a

couple of re-vamps with two re-designs of the original Strawberry Shortcake character since 1977. Her current look has lost the corn-rolled red hair is now long flowing strawberry locks .The cheeks dotted with rouge and freckles are scrubbed clean for a fresh-faced look. Her green eyes now made more prominent with her less shy and more friendly outgoing smile. Strawberry Shortcake now prefers fresh fruit to gumdrops, and chatting on her cellphone (although she still has time for her calico cat named Custard).

Parenting Styles–What’s Yours? By Nathalie Brown

Becoming a parent changes your life in many ways, that there really is no genuine preparation we can do. We can read about it, there are certainly plenty of books, experts and opinions on parenting. But until you are living in the world of parenthood, nothing can really prepare you 100 % for the ups and the downs and the emotional ride we step on once we become a parent. As a parent we are also bombarded with what we should be doing, how we should be doing it and how often we should do it and what style of parenting is the best and right way.

These are just some parenting styles; •Authoritarian Parenting•Permissive Parenting•Tiger Parenting•Uninvolved Parenting•Authoritative Parenting•Equalitarian Parenting•Attachment Parenting•Helicopter Parenting•Positive Parenting

Through my behavioural studies, research and work, I read what feels like every book out there on parenting and child behaviour, on my book shelf alone there are over fifty books on this topic, not counting the pile by my bed, the dining table and yes the bathroom too.

Yet, all these books and all my studying has taught me one thing and helped me to answer one question that I am asked daily by parents “What type of parenting style should I use”. My answer is simple “Each child is an individual, there is no fool proof parenting style”.

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I am sure we all as parents know this, but we do still search for the illusive answer, that doesn’t really exist in just one simple style or technique.

Parenting is an individual as you are and as unique as your child. There will be times when you feel that it is all too much and this is totally normal, I can assure you that all other parents feel this too. Even the most perfect family imaginable feels this way at times. We all have moments which a great and not so great. We can have off days where everything is just too overwhelming and so can our children.

Yes, you are the biggest influence in your child’s life, you are helping create who they will be as an adult, that alone is a lot of pressure, but as long as there are more ups than downs, you are on the right path. Loving your child, with all your heart is what parenting is, being prepared to bring up your child to the best of your ability that is what parenting is.

Parenting styles and child behaviour are interlinked in that again there is no guaranteed formula that works. Parenting styles are not the latest fashion on the catwalk –‘this is the newest style of parenting.’ Parenting is a continuous learning curve, we learn from our children and they learn from us.

Parents with more than one child, will admit that what worked for one child, does not work for the other due to different personalities, likes and dislikes, it is human nature.

One child’s behaviour will thrive with a reward chart; another will not give two hoots about a reward chart.One child will eat whatever is served in front of them; another will refuse everything bar milk, cheese and pasta.

This is not dependant on your parenting style, this is a child exerting their choice and of course testing the world around them and causing havoc in their parents’ mind.

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This is what children do; children want to be independent, they want to know what everything does, they want to touch everything, they want to see what happens if they pour paint on the cat, shove a button up their nose and laugh hilariously at the words poo and fart. This is what being a child is.

•Parents and I really mean Mothers need to stop stressing, drop the guilt and anxiety; this has a detrimental affect on you and your child.•Parents don’t read too many parenting books; there is no parenting style that offers a guaranteed happy well -rounded child.•Parents, children need to understand what you are saying at a level they can comprehend. Do not expect young children to internalize everything you say. •Children respond amazingly well to visual aids: books, posters, drawings, and puppets.•Parenting does have so many fantastic moments; try not to miss them, worrying because you have not folded the laundry.•Children rarely do anything with thought-out intention or malice.•Parents are as unique as their children. There is no style involved in teaching life skills and values: respect, trust and honesty. Throw in kindness and manners and love them to bits.•Do not let the bad days make you feel like it’s the end of the world - it’s day that will pass and your children love you, you are their world. "Parenting isn't taught by reading books, parenting is taught through reading your child“

Nathalie Brown is a Childhood Behaviour Consultant, Teenage Mentor Parent Counsellor and owner of Easy Peasy Kids. For more information go to www.easypeasykids.com.au

Parenting is becoming inundated with styles and techniques, adding yet more pressures to parenthood. Our parents and grandparents, parented their way, whether it was the best way, I do not know the answer to that, but I know my parents did quite a good job, without any particular parenting style label or specific techniques.

As a child behaviour consultant, I am an avid observer of children and of course their parents. I have been observing and studying children for years, from their developmental stages through to their behaviour, which has enabled me to learn from them, how they see the world and why they behave like they do.

This is what I have learnt about parenting and children; 33

Monthly Competition

Kidsagogo, a children’s clothing and lifestyle brand. Crisp colours and fresh contemporary designs define the Kidsagogo style.

Designed and created in Indonesia, the Kidsagogo label also includes accessories, home wares and toys. Every piece shares the same beautiful simplicity and attention to detail that

set this label ahead of the rest.Already established internationally, Kidsagogo is a premier line for babies and kids from

3months to 8years.This month one lucky winner will have the choice of either;

• Melissa dress in tangerine, also available in lavender and red $69.95. Hair clip rose available to match $12.95 and a summer hat to go (not pictured) $19.95.

OR• Boys stripe T in blue also available in green and red $32.95. Mac shorts in denim with stripe

feature $44.95 and a summer hat to go (not pictured) $19.95.Made from 100% natural cottons and voiles.

To get a taste of what’s to come in children’s fashion this summer got to www.kidsagogo.com or contact Melanie on 0416196902 or melanie@kidsagogo.com.au

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Monthly Competition

Little People's Linen is an entire kids decorating/interior store catering for children from birth to 15 years of age. My love for fabrics and soft furnishings and of course all things beautiful

for children has inspired my store!

We are passionate about customer service and finding you exclusive baby bedding, childrensbedding, chidren's furniture and chidren's decorating accessories so your little ones room

will stand out from the rest.

This month one lucky reader will have the opportunity to win a Patersonrose Mariner Single Bed Quilt and Pillowcase value at $125.00

A versatile design, the Mariner Collection fits so many different bedroom situations … from cot, to the king size bed linen, a bunkroom, or the sophisticated teenager's bedroom, this is

the ultimate boys design. So classic in Navy, red and white.Little People's Linen stock a range of cot linen through to King Size Bedding all for children.

To see the full range of gorgeous bed linen and accessories, go to www.littlelinen.com.au35

Monthly Competition

piggywinkles creates original wall art and wall decals that are as unique as that special little person in your life. Whether it is an original piece of wall art for a special birthday, christening or baby shower, a personalized name to complement their nursery or bedroom or accessories to celebrate a new arrival you will not be disappointed.

At piggywinkles we LOVE all things vintage and retro and I try to incorporate this love into my wall art designs by using funky retro fabrics. Most designs are handcrafted from a range of textiles including fabrics, buttons, wood, wallpaper & resin.Designs include gorgeous owls, birds, babushka dolls and retro robots ......just to name a few and many more.

piggywinkles is great for gift shopping for mums and dads, aunts and uncles, sisters and brothers, grandmothers and grandfathers, godparents and friends who haven't yet found that original gift for that special little person in their lives.

This month one lucky readers will have the opportunity to win a set of wooden wall owl decals covered in fabric. It is a set of 3 owls the largest is 30 cm, middle is 20cm and smallest 10 cm.For more information go to www.piggywinkles.com.au

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Monthly Competition

Little Living is an online boutique featuring a unique range of children's furniture, homewares, decor, gifts and accessories sourced from Europe, America and from right here

in Australia.We aim to provide exquisite products for children aged from birth to young teens. Our

product range caters across all major aspects of a child's life - from eating and sleeping to playing and living. Our products are high quality and we know our customers will love to play

with, look at, touch or display them in their homes. We provide prompt, personal service, quick turnaround of orders and gorgeous gift wrapping. Looking or shopping, you are always

welcome at Little Living.

This month one lucky reader will have the opportunity of winning a Hand-Made Origami Mobile (bright colour-way) valued at $80. These beautiful mobiles are lovingly constructed by hand in Australia; the cranes are folded from custom made printed paper so each one is

unique. Suspend from the ceiling for stunning effect in a nursery or child's bedroom or playroom, it would suit both boys or girls spaces. This mobile will come beautifully packaged

for one lucky winner!To see the full range of gorgeous products available go to www.littleliving.com.au

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Is your child the next

cover star of the Alphabet Street mini mag?

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 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 magfor 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

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Monthly Competition Terms and Conditions

•Entrant can only enter once •Winners will be notif ied 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 August 2011