1. Prepare the Night Before
- Lay out clothes for both yourself and your children.
- Pack bags with essentials like diapers, wipes, snacks, and any other necessities. - Check the weather forecast to ensure appropriate clothing.
2. Create a Routine:
- Establish a morning routine that includes specific tasks for both you and your kids.
- Stick to a consistent schedule to help children know what to expect.
3. Use a Checklist:
- Create a checklist of everything you need to take with you, including items for the kids and yourself.
- Keep the checklist in a visible place to make it easy to refer to.
4. Set Realistic Timelines:
- Factor in extra time for unexpected delays, such as last-minute diaper changes or tantrums.
- Allow ample time for everyone to get ready without feeling rushed.
5. Involve the Kids:
- Encourage independence by involving your children in the morning routine. Let them choose their clothes or help pack their bags.
- Offer simple tasks appropriate for their age, like putting shoes on or grabbing a toy.
6. Establish a "Launch Pad":
- Designate a specific area near the exit as a "launch pad" for keys, bags, and other essentials. This helps avoid last-minute searches.
- Keep frequently used items like strollers or car seats in an easily accessible location.
7. Use Timers:
- Set timers for different tasks to keep everyone on track. This can create a sense of urgency and make the process more engaging for kids.
8. Prioritise Essentials:
- Identify the most crucial items you need to take with you and prioritise them. This way, if time is tight, you can focus on the essentials first.
9. Stay Calm and Positive:
- Children often pick up on their parents' emotions. Stay calm and positive, even if things get a bit chaotic.
- Praise your children for their cooperation and efforts during the process.
10. Bring your carrier/ mumsie!
- Babies/Toddlers love to be carried so having a carrier options available is key!
Remember that flexibility is key, and not every day will go perfectly. Be patient with yourself and your children, and don't be afraid to adjust your routine as needed.
1. The Power of 10-Minute Workouts:
Busy schedules call for efficient workouts. Embrace the power of 10-minute exercise routines that can be easily squeezed into your day. Short bursts of activity can have a significant impact on your fitness over time.
2. HIIT (High-Intensity Interval Training):
HIIT workouts are perfect for time-crunched moms. These short, intense bursts of exercise followed by brief rest periods maximize calorie burn and boost metabolism. Consider exercises like jumping jacks, squats, and burpees for an effective HIIT session.
3. Leverage Naptime or Bedtime:
Make use of your child's naptime or bedtime to sneak in a quick workout. YouTube and fitness apps offer a variety of short workout videos that you can follow in the comfort of your home.
4. Bodyweight Exercises:
No equipment? No problem. Bodyweight exercises are simple, effective, and can be done anywhere. Include squats, lunges, push-ups, and planks in your routine for a full-body workout.
5. Stroller Workouts:
Turn your daily stroll into a workout by incorporating exercises while pushing the stroller. Include lunges, brisk walking, and even squats at the park. This way, you stay active while spending quality time with your little one.
6. Dance It Out:
Crank up the music and have a dance party with your child. Dancing is a fun and effective way to get your heart rate up while enjoying quality time together.
7. Quick Yoga Sessions:
Yoga is an excellent choice for busy moms. Short yoga sessions focusing on flexibility and relaxation can be easily integrated into your routine, leaving you feeling refreshed and centered.
8. Utilize Workout Apps:
Explore fitness apps that offer short, targeted workouts. Many apps cater specifically to busy individuals, providing quick and effective routines that can be adapted to your fitness level.
9. Set Realistic Goals:
Understand that consistency is key. Set realistic fitness goals that align with your schedule, and celebrate small achievements along the way.
10. Include the Kids:
Make exercise a family affair by including your children. Play active games together, go for family bike rides, or challenge each other to see who can do the most jumping jacks.
Being a busy mom doesn't mean you have to sacrifice your fitness goals. By incorporating these quick and effective workouts into your routine, you can prioritize your physical health and well-being. Remember, even small bursts of activity add up over time, contributing to a healthier and more energized you. Here's to embracing a fit and active lifestyle amidst the beautiful chaos of motherhood!
In this blog post, we'll take you on a journey behind the scenes of our new Mumsie styles that are the perfect companions for the coziest months of the year.
The Inspiration
We might be coming into the warmer months here in Australia but for our northern hemisphere mamas the cooler months are underway. Mumsie brings you a collection that embodies the warmth and comfort you crave. The designs draw inspiration from the colour palette of the cooler season environment. Crafted in luxurious corduroy fabric creates soft cosy comfort against the skin.
The Corduroy Connection
To bring this vision to life, we turned to corduroy for two styles, a fabric renowned for its softness and durability. Corduroy's velvety texture added an extra layer of coziness to our designs, making it the perfect choice for winter wear. We experimented with various weights and colours to find the ideal combination of comfort and style, resulting in a fabric that was both luxurious and practical, and our new cord is produced using sustainable and ethical practices.
Working with Ceylon Tea Dying
We are so lucky our passion for sustainability and innovation is shared by our manufacturers. That is why when we were introduced to the prospect of dying some of our mumsies with recycled ceylon tea, we jumped on the opportunity. Now after a long time in development we are SO excited to release our first style dyed in the method.
The Design Process
Creating a Mumsie collection is always a collaborative process, with our team of talented designers and manufacturers working together to bring ideas to fruition. We held brainstorming sessions and carefully considered every element, from buttons and labels to cuts and pockets. Each detail was crafted to ensure that our new styles not only looked beautiful but also felt incredible to wear.
The Campaign Shoot
Putting together a photo shoot is always such a fun adventure. From the initial pitch and ideas to bringing it all to life, we had so much fun. Working with the amazing Eliza from @elrhophoto is always a pleasure, thank you Eliza! You're always so great to work with! Some more big thanks go out to our wonderful models Sophia, Shaybella, Keira & Rosie and last but not least Jackie for letting us use your picturesque property. The location imbued the colours of the collection with the green and natural hues as you will see through the pieces of the collections. The time of the day was selected for the warm golden light at sunset creating warmth in our collection. We wanted to show the mumsie in action and how it's worn everyday in a practical way to help Mamas - carrying bags, reading books, catching up with fellow mamas, eating and drinking hands free!
Stayed tuned as we will be releasing pre order to the hazel collection products over the coming weeks...
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]]>Sensory Play
Sensory play is an excellent way to stimulate a baby's senses and cognitive development. Create a sensory bin by filling a shallow container with safe objects of different textures, such as soft fabric, smooth toys, and rattles. Allow your baby to explore these items with their hands and feet, encouraging their curiosity and motor skills.
Tummy Time
Tummy time is essential for developing a baby's neck, back, and shoulder muscles, which eventually helps them learn to crawl and sit up. Place your baby on their tummy for short periods throughout the day while supervised. Use colourful toys or mirrors to encourage them to lift their head and explore their surroundings.
Baby Massage
Gentle baby massages can be incredibly soothing for both baby and caregiver. Use baby-safe oil to gently massage your little one's arms, legs, and back. This activity can help with relaxation, bonding, and overall physical development.
Reading Time
Even at this young age, babies benefit from being read to regularly. Choose board books with bright colors, simple illustrations, and contrasting patterns. Reading aloud helps foster language skills, encourages bonding, and sparks the imagination.
Music and Singing
Expose your baby to various types of music, from lullabies to cheerful tunes. Singing and dancing together can be a fun way to bond and stimulate their auditory senses. Music can also have a calming effect on babies and aid in their emotional development.
Baby Sign Language
While babies under 6 months may not be able to speak yet, they can begin to learn sign language. Use simple signs for basic needs, such as "milk," "more," and "all done." This can help reduce frustration and enhance communication between you and your baby.
Mirror Play
Babies love looking at their own reflections. Hold your baby in front of a mirror and watch as they delight in seeing their face and making funny expressions. This activity promotes self-awareness and social interaction.
Outdoor Strolls
Taking a leisurely walk outdoors with your baby in a stroller or baby carrier is a wonderful way to introduce them to the world. Fresh air and changing scenery can be both calming and stimulating for babies.
Water Play
A shallow basin filled with warm water can provide hours of entertainment for babies. With close supervision, allow them to splash and play in the water, helping them become familiar with this essential element.
Engaging with your baby under 6 months old through these delightful activities can be both fulfilling and beneficial for their development. As you participate in these experiences together, remember to cherish each moment and enjoy the unique bond that is forming between you and your little one. Always ensure your baby's safety and well-being during these activities, and be attentive to their cues and preferences. Embrace this beautiful stage of early childhood, as it lays the foundation for a lifetime of love, learning, and growth.
]]>The concept is simple yet powerful. Every month, we will randomly select one lucky recipient from the nominations we receive. This could be anyone, a cherished family member, a dear friend or someone you know doing it tough someone who has made a significant impact on the lives of others. By honoring them with a Mumsie, we hope to express our gratitude and make their day a little brighter.
On the first Thursday of each month, we will post a question box in our stories, inviting our community members to nominate someone special.
]]>We are thrilled to announce the launch of an exciting partnership that is set to revolutionize the world of babywearing across Europe. Mamalila, an innovative German company specializing in babywearing jackets, has joined forces with Mumsie, the world's one and only baby-wearing overall. Together, they aim to make Mumsie products more accessible to European customers.
Mamalila has earned a reputation for its exceptional expertise in designing and manufacturing babywearing jackets. With a deep understanding of the needs and challenges faced by parents who love to babywear, Mamalila has crafted innovative jackets that seamlessly integrate style, comfort, and functionality. These jackets are designed to accommodate babies and toddlers while providing comfort and protection to both the child and the wearer. Mamalila jackets boast a range of features that make them a game-changer in the industry. They incorporate adjustable inserts and panels, allowing for easy adaptation. The jackets are made from premium, eco-friendly materials, ensuring maximum comfort and durability. With clever design, Mamalila jackets are suitable for all seasons, providing versatility and adaptability to various weather conditions.
Exciting Partnership with Mumsie: The partnership ensures that all prices include VAT and postage, eliminating any additional fees or surprises for customers when purchasing a Mumsie. This transparent approach allows parents to make informed decisions without the worry of hidden costs, making the shopping experience more enjoyable and stress-free.
The partnership between Mamalila and Mumsie marks an exciting milestone in the world of babywearing. Prepare to embrace the joy of babywearing like never before as Mamalila and Mumsie come together to deliver an unparalleled experience.
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Writer: Rebecca Walker, The Conscious Wordsmith
My passion lies in working with the kindergarten age group, where their creativity and thinking skills are really coming to life. There can be a lot of pressure on children starting school, not just academically but physically, socially and emotionally, and I feel that it is important to prepare children to cope with that. Children are not able to learn when they are in a stress response, so having tools to draw on when they are overwhelmed is important not only for learning outcomes at school but also for children’s wellbeing. With Peaceful Hearts Learning I wanted to create an environment in which children could practise tools and skills in a small and supported group setting, before having to use them alone, or in a larger group.
I became aware of Circle of Security parenting when my firstborn was a baby and have worked on applying what I learnt in the program, to my parenting over the last 13 years. More recently I completed training to use a classroom approach with the children that I work with. The approach is based on research in attachment and developmental psychology, and recognises that secure attachment relationships play a foundational role in social competence and regulation of the body’s stress response systems. The framework helps parents and educators to understand children’s emotional worlds, while learning about their own emotional triggers, and responding in ways that promote secure attachments and subsequently positive learning outcomes.
For me, using a holistic approach is about meeting each child where they are at, across all areas of their development and supporting growth from there, in order to build their overall confidence, and wellbeing. Skills aren’t learnt in isolation, children learn through the full spectrum of their physical, intellectual, social, emotional and personal journeys. With a focus on the ‘whole’ child, holistic learning considers just how interconnected each area of child development is. This forms the basis of the programs at Peaceful Hearts Learning.
The holistic school readiness program is about supporting children’s wellbeing (physical, cognitive, emotional, social and personal), and building positive learning dispositions such as confidence, resilience, a growth mindset and creative thinking, that will support them as they transition into school. Sessions include a mix of stories, music, restorative yoga, guided meditation, body scanning, mindfulness, nature play, creative art and other fun and engaging activities that support:
Social and emotional learning involves developing self-awareness, self-management, social awareness, interpersonal skills and responsible decision making. This doesn’t happen overnight, and it is never a straight road, but it is especially important to support children with this part of their development in the early years, while their brains are growing more rapidly than at any other time in life. In the early years children’s brains are literally building the structure that will support their later development, and research shows that social and emotional learning during this period of time grows the foundations not only for academic success but also for children’s future wellbeing.
There can be a misconception that school readiness is about measurable skills such as reciting numbers and writing the alphabet, but I believe it needs to be more holistic than that. There are so many prerequisite areas of development that need to happen before a child can be effective at reading and writing, and not all children are at the same developmental level at the same time. Teaching holistically allows children to build confidence in themselves as learners regardless of where they are at developmentally, and to build dispositions for learning and ways of thinking that will support them throughout their whole lives.
I would definitely recommend ‘The Yes Brain Child’ by Dr Dan Siegel and Tina Bryson for parents wanting to facilitate open and receptive mindsets in their children.
‘Balanced and Barefoot’ by Angela Hanscom is another great book that gives a great overview of how interconnected child development is, and the benefits of sensory integration through unstructured playtime, to children’s learning and development.
The power of connection – connection to self, connection to others, and connection to the world around them.
I love connecting with children in their creative worlds, learning about their thought processes, and observing them immersed deeply in their imaginative play. I am continually amazed at what children are capable of when they are able to express their inner worlds. I also really love the creative aspect of being a teacher - thinking outside the box when things don’t go to plan, and coming up with different ways of doing things.
My aim is to support children’s holistic development and to help them to build tools that will support their wellbeing, not just as they journey into school, but as they journey through life.
For more information about Jess’s class, visit her website http://peacefulheartslearning.com.au/
]]>Writer: Rebecca Walker, The Conscious Wordsmith
As a Certified Coach and Meditation Teacher, I support exhausted and overwhelmed mothers shift out of survival mode, reclaim their time and energy, and reconnect with themselves and their family with a full cup. Using a combination of coaching and holistic tools and practices (including meditation), I dive deep with women to uncover their blocks, elevate their wellbeing, and build the belief that they can create, and experience, their dream version of motherhood.
Real Mother Love is a 12-week group coaching journey for mothers to connect and experience deep healing and embodied guidance within a supportive community. I guide and support women, step-by-step, to reconnect with themselves and create new ways of living, loving and giving – firstly to themselves, then to their family, then to the planet at large. Think meditation, breathwork, birth story sharing, boundary setting, emotion regulation, learning child led play practices, self-care, sleep hygiene, alternative medicine tips and tricks (essential oils, homeopathics etc.) and lots more.
Deep Mother Love is a deeply intimate 12-week private coaching journey for mothers to experience being truly heard, seen, understood and accepted in a sacred relationship with me. Together I co-create a safe space for mothers to unravel their fears, traumas, triggers, experiences and motherhood challenges. It is an opportunity for them to start healing themselves with my support. We go deep into the real, often hard, truths. We embrace it all. I listen while they share their stories and heartache. I create space for mothers to feel EVERYTHING. Furthermore, I create a clear and practical pathways to healing.
The mentorship session is a private 1-to-1, 60-minute session that helps mothers gain clarity. I offer solution-based results to their questions, frustrations and current motherhood challenges. Whether they’re on a conception journey; deep in the throes of new motherhood; seeking sleep advice; feeling confused about alternative parenting decisions; wondering how on earth to help their toddler feel more emotionally regulated; or how to nourish the whole family with healthy and yummy foods – we cover it all.
Find a teacher that you feel drawn to and resonate with. Ideally, a qualified, experienced, embodied instructor who can answer all your questions. Let yourself be guided. Take a course. Take the pressure off yourself to learn another thing on the fly or from YouTube. Commit to your practice financially so you have an added incentive (sign up for a pre-paid course). Be sure to choose a practical style that compliments your lifestyle as a busy mama. Know that meditation does not equal ‘no thoughts’. That is literally impossible. Thoughts are a part of meditation.
The Mama Rescue Guide is my free gift to help mama’s shift out of overwhelm, so they can start thriving in motherhood in the most fast and effective way. Within the guide I share a recorded ‘how to’ video with two breathing techniques to help mama’s rebalance their emotions and reconnect to their hearts. I am so passionate about these tools as they had such a profound and positive impact on my experience of motherhood.
Connection and belonging is the antidote to loneliness and overwhelm in motherhood. To feel a ‘me too’ instead of a ‘I thought I was the only one’, is so damn healing and necessary on this wild and often challenging journey. To know you’re not alone and that other people, with the same values and beliefs as you exist and are closer than you might think.
Support: my very devoted husband and the beautiful Steiner-based family daycare that I send my son to, are my two main supportive rocks.
Meditation: my non-negotiable commitment is to my twice-daily meditation practice. It gives me energy, clarity and a connection to my creative power…and so much more!
Mothers are the powerful creators and nurturers of our planet. To support and guide mamas, who are the foundation of the world, is the ultimate gift to humanity. Without connected, balanced, thriving mothers, we cannot raise compassionate, free-spirited, critical-thinking children, who then have the capacity to change the future of this planet for the better from the inside out.
Find your unique voice. Take time to learn who the new you (mother) is. Shed the old versions of you. Let go of people, relationships, places, pastimes that no longer resonate. Don’t make time for people pleasing. Practice healthy boundaries. This is key.
That no matter what your dreams, desires, wishes, plans or goals are as a mother-to-be, you will be gifted the exact experience and child (teacher) you need for the deepest healing to occur than you ever imagined was possible – in both positive and challenging ways.
Ask for help. Accept support. Let people give to you. Say yes to the meals, the cleaner, the extra money, the more than two-minute shower while your neighbour you barely know holds your baby. Do everything you can to bring awareness to the innate need to be a ‘warrior trophy mum’, and let that broken patriarchal societal belief go. Feel it. Express it. And be unapologetic in the messy process of you ‘becoming mother’ too.
The physical touch. It’s just so healing. Each time my babe asks me to hold him, pick him up, love him, breastfeed him, connect with him, I feel so needed by him. Mothering him also somehow simultaneously heals the inner child within me. The level of devotion is almost addictive…which I’m not sure is a good thing hehe :)
To find out more about Bronte’s services or to book a session, visit her website at https://www.brontehurley.com/
]]>Preparing your house for a baby involves a combination of organization, safety measures, and creating a nurturing environment. By decluttering, designing a functional nursery, babyproofing your home, creating a safe sleep environment, stocking up on essentials, and installing necessary safety measures, you'll be well-prepared to welcome your little one into a secure and loving home. Remember, each baby is different, so be flexible and adjust your preparations based on your specific needs and preferences. Enjoy this special time of nesting as you eagerly await the arrival of your bundle of joy!
]]>Building friendships as a new mom may require some effort and stepping out of your comfort zone, but the benefits of finding supportive friends are immeasurable. By attending local events, joining online communities, utilizing social media, attending classes, reaching out to other moms, and seeking guidance from professionals, you'll increase your chances of finding like-minded friends who can offer the support and understanding you need on your motherhood journey. Remember, you're not alone in this experience, and with a little initiative, you can find a strong support network of fellow new moms.
]]>Mumsie Babywearing Overalls The Mumsie babywearing overalls are a game-changer for any new mum. These overalls are designed to be worn during pregnancy, postpartum, and while babywearing. They feature a built-in baby carrier, making it easy for mums to keep their baby close while also having their hands free. Not only are they practical, but they are also stylish, making them a perfect gift for any fashion-conscious mum.
Postpartum Recovery Kit Giving birth can be tough on a new mum's body, so a postpartum recovery kit is a thoughtful and practical gift. You can include items like bath salts, nipple cream, a heating pad, and comfortable underwear to help ease the transition into motherhood.
Meal Delivery Subscription Cooking can be challenging for a new mum, so a meal delivery subscription can take the pressure off meal planning and preparation. Look for services that offer healthy and easy-to-make meals or ones that cater to specific dietary needs.
Nursing Pillow Breastfeeding can be challenging, and a nursing pillow can provide much-needed support for both the mum and baby. There are many options available, from traditional U-shaped pillows to more ergonomic designs.
Personalised Jewellery Personalised jewellery is a beautiful and sentimental gift for a new mum. You can choose a piece that features the baby's name, birth date, or initials to make it extra special.
Self-Care Kit Taking care of a new baby can be exhausting, so a self-care kit can help the new mum feel pampered and rejuvenated. You can include items like candles, bath bombs, skincare products, and a relaxing book.
Baby Keepsake Kit A baby keepsake kit is a thoughtful gift that the new mum can cherish for years to come. You can include items like a baby journal, milestone cards, a handprint kit, and a special outfit for the baby's first photoshoot.
In conclusion, there are many present ideas for a new mum, from practical items to sentimental keepsakes. The Mumsie babywearing overalls are a unique and practical gift that can make a new mum's life easier while also being stylish. Whatever gift you choose, remember that the most important thing is to show your support and love for the new family.
]]>Bonding with your baby Babywearing allows you to have your baby close to you, which promotes bonding between you and your baby. When you carry your baby, you can feel their heartbeat, hear their breathing, and see their facial expressions, which can help you develop a stronger bond with your little one.
Hands-free convenience One of the most significant advantages of babywearing is the ability to have your hands free while carrying your baby. This allows you to complete tasks, run errands, or take care of older siblings without having to put your baby down.
Improved breastfeeding Babywearing can make breastfeeding easier and more convenient. When your baby is in a carrier, they are at breast level, making it easier to breastfeed on the go.
Reduced colic and reflux Carrying your baby in an upright position can help reduce the symptoms of colic and reflux. The upright position can help reduce the pressure on your baby's tummy and make them more comfortable.
Improved sleep Carrying your baby can help them fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer. The gentle movement of being carried can help soothe your baby and promote a more restful sleep.
Promotes healthy development Babywearing can help promote healthy development in your baby. Being carried allows your baby to be in a natural, ergonomic position that supports the development of their spine, hips, and neck.
Safe and secure When you use a carrier that is designed for babywearing, it is a safe and secure way to carry your baby. Baby carriers are designed to distribute weight evenly, making it more comfortable for you and your baby.
Promotes exploration As your baby grows, babywearing allows them to explore their surroundings while still being close to you. This can help promote their sense of curiosity and independence.
Encourages socialization Carrying your baby in a carrier allows them to be at eye level with you, which can help encourage socialization and language development.
Environmental benefits Babywearing can be a more environmentally friendly way to transport your baby. You won't need to use a stroller or car seat as often, which can reduce your carbon footprint.
In conclusion, babywearing has numerous benefits for both the baby and the caregiver. It promotes bonding, convenience, healthy development, and socialization, among other things. If you're considering babywearing, be sure to choose a carrier that is comfortable, safe, and easy to use.
]]>Two Blue Lines starring a plethora of familiar faces including Gyton Grantley, Jolene Anderson, Haiha Le, Guy Edmonds and Felix Williamson is now available to binge online at www.themumsie.com/twobluelines
When writer Sarah Doyle and filmmaker and entrepreneur Janneke Williamson conceived the story for TWO BLUE LINES, they never imagined that the creation of the series would mirror a real life pregnancy for Sarah.
Art imitates life, life imitates art. Sarah Doyle attends the premiere of TWO BLUE LINES with her baby Tallulah
It was March 2021 when Janneke approached Sarah with the idea for a series following a woman’s journey into motherhood. Meet the lead character “Charlotte” 36, single.. With a body clock that was ticking but a passion for her career. Not even sure she wanted a child, the series follows the main character Charlotte from IVF to a natural conception all the way through to the birth of her baby. It takes you on the highs and lows of pregnancy and the evolution of self from being late 30s and single to becoming a mother. A comedy with heart designed for the small screen.
Co creator and Director Janneke Williamson with Co creator and Writer Sarah Doyle at the Sydney Premiere
During the writing process, Sarah was freshly back in Sydney having moved home from Los Angeles. Lockdown in Sydney meant only going out for certain periods to exercise and Sarah posted an ad on Gumtree to find some ‘learn to surf’ buddies. The next few months resulted in her gaining the skills to ride the swell at Bronte and Maroubra Beach but also creating a bond with the other members of the “Gumtree Surf Gang”. During this time Janneke (in Noosa) and Sarah (in Sydney) were collaborating back and forth with the script for the series and pre production was underway. In the series we don’t know exactly how ‘Charlotte’ gets pregnant until Episode 4. Is it IVF, an ad for sperm on Gumtree or a chance one night stand? Simultaneously in real life, Sarah and one of her surf gang members found love and before the shoot had commenced, Sarah discovered she was expecting a real baby.
The series is set in Noosa on the Sunshine Coast and production started in March 2022, right in the middle of a covid surge. It was a difficult time for any production, let alone an independent film, with daily covid tests, masks and interstate actors flying in and out for the production. The series showcases some beautiful parts of Noosa and the Sunshine Coast hinterland whilst taking the audience on a journey through laughs but also heart wrenching moments of realism as we ride the rollercoaster of pregnancy with Charlotte.
Having a background in production and now running babywearing brand ‘The Mumsie”, Two Blue Lines was brought to life by Janneke Williamson with her brand as the sponsor.
“I love storytelling and connecting with our audience is my favourite part of running a small business. Social media has given us a unique and amazing way to connect with other parents in all corners of the globe and we wanted to make an original series for not only entertainment but also to showcase the relatable real life challenges we face when becoming a parent for the first time. I’m really grateful for our female lead team not only in our business but also in the production of Two Blue Lines. We really need more female storytellers in the film industry and more support for women in small business.” said Janneke.
Janneke and Sarah with some of the cast and crew after filming out the front of the Mumsie store in Noosa.
The premiere of TWO BLUE LINES was held at the Ritz cinema in Randwick, Sydney with a plethora of familiar faces on screen and in the audience. The series stars Gyton Grantley (Underbelly), Jolene Anderson (All Saints, Harrow), Guy Edmonds (The Moodys), Haiha Le (Back To The Rafters), Felix Williamson (The Great Gatsby, Peter Rabbit) and Romy Poulier (Ticket to Paradise). Sarah’s real baby was born just 5 weeks prior and joined Sarah and Rodney at the premiere.
Gyton Grantley as YORK and Sarah Doyle as CHARLOTTE film a scene from TWO BLUE LINES
This six part series is now available to binge on Youtube, Facebook and can be viewed at www.themumsie.com/twobluelines
Fake silicone pregnancy tummy's aside, father of three Gyton Grantley helps find Sarah's real life in-utero baby on the ultrasound whilst filming.
BINGE NOW! Click here to watch the whole series.
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Hey Mumsie Fam,
If you follow us on our socials you would have seen last month we ventured to the USA. What an adventure it was from desert to beaches, and bumps to babies. We met some of the most beautiful people and we wanted to share just a little of where we went and what we got up to!
We started our adventure in hot sunny Dallas, Texas. Where we got ready for 'The Prego Expo'.
We met so many beautiful Mamas, Papas, Bubbas and Bumps!
Then we put together a fashion show. 🕺
Watch the recap of the fashion show here.
Then we were headed to Los Angeles, California. Our first shoot in Los Angeles was with the amazing Lola Berry you can find her at @yummololaberry
We ventured around an area of LA called Los Feliz and headed up to the iconic Griffith Observatory which has the most amazing views of LA and the Hollywood sign. 🤩
Lola can be seen here wearing
The Edie
The Classic Shortie
The Blossie (coming soon)
Our next shoot was with the absolute cutie Alissa and her son, gorgeous Ziggy you can find her at @missalissa
We met Alissa in Venice Beach and ventured through the canals which reminded me of the movie Valentines Day and the scenes with Ashton Kutcher and Jessica Alba. Then we walked up to the beach. So many interesting houses and cool scenes in Venice!
😎
Alissa can be seen here wearing
The Peachie
The Jet Shortie
The Classic Shortie
We then headed to Santa Monica Farmers Markets where we met the beautiful Keiko and her son.
We Ventured through aisles of colour and freshness. If you are ever in the area I would definitely suggest doing your groceries here!
🌻
Keiko can be seen here wearing
The Sunday
The Olive (coming soon)
Our next stop was Joshua Tree where temps were very high for us Aussies coming from winter back home 😛
Britané was so so lovely and braved the heat with her 3 stunning kiddos and as you can see from the photos we are so so glad she made the journey to meet us!
You can find Britané at @queenb_natural
🌵
Britané can be seen here wearing
We then were so so excited to meet the wonderful Bree from @breescakes you can also find Bree at @chefbreemiller
Brees cakes are amazing!!! She has made cakes for celebs such as Kevin Hart and Chrissy Teigen. WHAT?! So cool!!!
Bree was also kind enough to send us with some cupcakes that I can confirm were DELICIOUS!!!!
🍰
Bree can be seen here wearing
Then we headed to Whole Foods to stock up on some snacks and take some quick snaps of our gorgeous resident mumsie model Charlotte Carr (AKA as Char). Some of you may know the amazing Char and if you don't she is the wife of singer Wesley Dean @wesleydeanmusic and also a bestie of the mumsie fam! She has recently relocated to USA. We love you Char!
Can I just say Whole Foods is amazing and I am very jealous that we don't have an option like this in Australia.
🥦
Char can be seen here wearing
The Love Child (an organic denim mumsie coming soon)
We didn't finish with less than a bang! In the trendy part of LA known as Silver Lake. We met up with the stunning Ravayna and embraced beautiful street art, good coffee and had a bit of fun! You can also find Ravayna here @ravayna
🌟
Ravayna can be seen wearing
The Night Fever
The Night Shift
The Rosè
Janneke is wearing
The Blossie (coming soon)
All of our photos were taken by the one and only
@elrhophoto
https://elrhophoto.mypixieset.com/
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Writer: Rebecca Walker, The Conscious Wordsmith
A picture speaks a thousand words and one of the best ways to introduce young children to the concept of siblinghood is to show them a picture book that illustrates the impending changes that are coming to the family dynamic. There are some great books that address the pregnancy process and introduce the idea of being a big brother or sister. If you already know the baby’s sex, there's also some fantastic gender-specific books that place a little girl or boy as the baby character. The most important thing is getting your firstborn to relate to the idea of the family growing. The concept will probably be abstract until bub actually arrives, but the sooner they wrap their heads around it, the easier the transition will be.
The best way to demystify the sibling concept is to talk about to your eldest child honestly about the changes that are coming. If your child hates the idea of sharing you or feels anxious about things changing, reassure them that a new addition to the family is a positive thing, but may take some getting used to. It’s important to emphasise that you will love them just as much as you always have and that they don’t have to worry about the baby stealing your heart. That said, it’s also vital to explain that sometimes they will need to be patient, while you learn to juggle life with 2 (or more). Sell the baby to them as a new friend (for life!) that they can help care for, while also explaining that babies are a lot of work and need constant care until they’re a bit bigger. Expectation management is key. You want your child to look forward to the baby’s birth, while also being realistic about some of the growing pains you may face as a family.
Role play is a great way to engage kids in the pregnancy and newborn process. Depending on the age of your eldest child, buying them a doll and mini baby bottle can be a simple way to introduce the idea of becoming an older sibling. Not only does it give them a baby to play with leading up to the birth, but it means they can care for their own baby after bub is born. This can be especially helpful during feeding time, when sibling jealousy tends to rear its head. They can feed their baby alongside you and change its diaper or give it a bath. Perhaps even buy them a little stroller to push their baby around in and some toy baby clothes so they can change its outfit. The idea is for them to feel empowered as they step into this new, senior role. And yes, boys can play with dolls too.
If you want to cultivate a connection between your belly bump and your firstborn, getting them involved in practical preparations is an effective way to engage them. This can include everything from helping choose a name, decorating the nursery together, selecting baby clothes or letting them see their little brother or sister on the screen during your sonogram – all the while reminding them that you once did all this for them. Show them pictures of themselves as a baby so they can see they were once a tiny newborn too. If your kids are close in age, it can be a good time to transition them from a cot or toddler bed to a ‘big kid bed’, to emphasise their place in the family hierarchy. The goal is to make them feel excited about what’s coming without feeling intimidated.
Older siblings often feel threatened by the idea of a new baby because they worry that you won’t have as much time for them. Sadly this is true. You won’t. The reality of having multiple children is that there’s only one Mama; and sometimes she has to prioritize the baby’s needs first. But that doesn’t mean the time you spend with your eldest should become diluted. In fact, time with your firstborn becomes even more precious after you have more than one child. They key is to balance the family’s schedule so you have some quality one-on-one time. Whether it’s a babyccino date at your local café or playtime in the park, filling your child’s ‘love cup’ will reassure them that they still have your love and attention.
]]>Writer: Rebecca Walker, The Conscious Wordsmith
Renowned as a respected training ground for dedicated young performers, Little Seed provides professional tuition in acting and musical theatre for budding stage entertainers. Located in Sunshine Beach, the theatre company’s confidence-building programme provides students with quality theatre classes, performances and experiences – from junior to senior levels. Class categories include: Junior Musical Theatre (prep-grade 3), Junior Acting (prep-grade 3), Intermediate Musical Theatre (grade 3-6), Intermediate Acting (grade 3-6), Senior Musical Theatre (grade 7-12), Senior Acting (grade 7-12) and Senior Performance Dance (grade 7-12), as well as acting extension and private coaching classes. Classes are held weekly over the school term and school holiday programmes are also on offer. Trial classes are available if you want to sample a session before committing to the term. Little Seed stages 6 major productions each year.
https://www.little-seed.com.au/
Offering weekly classes and dedicated musical theatre camps to “the next generation of stars,” Sunshine Coast Youth Theatre (SCYT) is a fantastic place for young performers to learn and refine their performance arts skills. Catering to children from grade 1 to 18 years, class sizes are kept small to ensure personalised tuition. Held in their purpose-built studios in Noosaville, classes include Musical Theatre, Acting, Glee, Jazz, Lyrical, Ballet, Hip Hop, Tap, Fitness, Sport Aerobics and Cheerleading, along with a ‘Boys Only’ dance class, private lessons and advanced masterclasses. SCYT also offers a ‘Finishing School’ programme (a pre-industry preparation course, designed specifically for Year 12 students), that prepares serious performers for the ‘real world’ of professional stage life. And as a bonus for the oldies, SCYT runs a ‘Parents Move & Groove’ class, so you can learn to dance it out with your littles.
https://www.sunshinecoastyouththeatre.com.au/
Passionate about the positive impact the performing arts has on children, Centre Stage offers singing, acting and dancing classes for kid’s aged 3-16 years. Catering to young performers who are keen to explore the dramatic arts while having fun (a Centre Stage priority!), classes are categorized into four types: ‘Twinkle Stars’ (3-5 years), ‘Starlets’ (prep-grade 1), ‘Budding Stars’ (grade 2-4), and ‘Starbursts’ (grade 5-10). Running for one-hour in Peregian on a weekly basis, lessons revolve around imagination, storytelling, improvisation, choreography and a variety of other performance skills. Centre Stage also offers monthly Masterclasses which include vocal, acting, audition preparation, script writing, production and stage management tuition. There is an annual performance at the end of the year, so your little one can build their confidence before performing in front of a live audience. Term dates follow the school year (4 terms per year) and regular holiday programmes are also on offer. Centre Stage offers a free trial class for new students and sibling discount packages are available.
Offering ‘Musical Theatre Masterclass’ sessions to dedicated up-and-coming performers, Coast Academy of Song and Dance (CASD) is a boutique theatre company in Cooroy. Consisting of a 3-hour weekly class, available to a handful of committed students (the school is capped at 22 pupils), this training and rehearsal-focussed programme is for those who are keen to hone their performance skills in an intimate, dedicated setting. Aimed at children aged 10-15, the Masterclass programme entails singing, dancing and acting training, including ballet foundation classes along with commercial and contemporary styles. CASD performs two shows a year: one main musical and a Christmas pantomime. Private tuition is also available for those interested in learning classical singing and ballet techniques.
http://www.coastacademyofsonganddance.com.au/
A bit of a drive from Noosa, but worthy of inclusion as one of the Sunshine Coast’s best performing arts schools (they have a 21-year history!), Bytes Youth Theatre provides quality training in voice, movement, musical theatre and acting for children aged 5 to 15. Offering an array of specialist and master classes, tuition categories include: ‘Integrated Performing Arts’ (5-8 years), ‘Foundation Acting' (8-9 years), ‘Intermediate Acting’ (1—13 years), 'Junior Musical Theatre' (8-11 years), ‘Open Acting’ (high school students), ‘Open Musical Theatre’ (high school students) plus a range of intensive acting, dancing and singing tuition for serious young performers who want to break into the industry professionally. Private lessons are also available. BYTES is a performance-based theatre company and stages a number of productions each year.
]]>Writer: Rebecca Walker, The Conscious Wordsmith
I found the Montessori method when I met my mother-in-law, who was a Montessori teacher in the 70s. At that time I was already a nanny and was working with children every day. I fell in love with every book she lent me and soon after that, I decided to become a teacher. As part of my teaching journey, I had to start working in schools. The experience was very enriching but I always knew my mission was to help families at home; which is why my career specialises in helping families create holistic learning environments at home.
Although I’m Montessori trained, I believe children and families suit a multi-method approach to learning. We don't fit in one box, we take the best out of each box. That is why my projects have a holistic approach. The holistic playroom and the resources in it are inspired by many alternative education philosophies like Montessori, Steiner, Regio Emilia, and Pickler.
I believe that is not about the ‘items’ but the ‘stations’ that make a playroom a wholesome learning environment. Taking that into consideration, a playroom for 0-6 years old children could include:
I find it very nurturing to include different materials from different educational methods. I strongly believe parents don't have to transform their homes to look exactly like kindergarten classrooms, but they can create intentional spaces in each area at home to make children feel welcome, stimulated and safe.
These kinds of activities support essential aspects of children’s development. With imaginative play, children can explore and experiment with different emotions and act out scenes in their play. Small world play allows children to control and manage their own environment, making all the big decisions and re-creating their world as they see it. It’s also a great way to learn how to connect and relate to other children.
In terms of sensory and nature play, I usually put them together as I prefer to work with natural materials. Furthermore, it supports the concept of ‘cosmic education’ where Maria Montessori teaches children to become aware of the interdependence of all things, and develop a sense of gratitude that comes from that awareness. Sensory play also helps stimulate the brain, creating more neural pathways; it improves coordination and fine/gross motor skills, as well as helping children self-regulate, and so on.
I relate this concept with what I’ve learn as a Montessori guide during my teaching journey. The term ‘Freedom’ and ‘Follow the Child’ are essential for every lesson. Children need the freedom to explore and discover their environment independently, and to engage their full attention on what interests them with minimum of interference and interruption.
Follow the child means to let go of our expectations and respect your child's development rhythm. Child-led learning enables children to choose and guide their own learning, helping to develop a broader range of topics that children are genuinely interested in.
I always recommend the same book: The Montessori Baby by Simone Davies and Junnifa Uzodike. It is super easy to read and it gives you the best tips to prepare your holistic journey from when the baby is in the womb.
Get that book! Haha. And look up other alternative educational methods like Steiner, Reggio Emilia, Pickler. There are also amazing social media accounts that give parents activity ideas, where to get resources and how to adapt home spaces to turn them into environments where your children can explore in a nurturing and safe way.
Independence, freedom, communication and respect. And those are also the values I choose to prioritise in my adult life. I practise these values in my every day, the relationship with myself and my relationship with others.
Being able to submerge myself in a child’s world every day is such a privilege. When I’m with them I feel my mind go to the same place as when I meditate. I feel like the outside world stops and there is no pain, no stress and no time.
To learn more about Maria’s classes, visit her website www.tuliptreekids.com or check out her insta account The Holistic Playroom.
Maria will be facilitating an event at The Mumsie in July…watch this space!
]]>Writer: Rebecca, Walker, The Conscious Wordsmith
Good communication is an essential element of any healthy relationship, but it becomes especially important when you become parents. Whether you’re a first-time mama or a seasoned mother of 4, being able to voice your thoughts, feelings and emotions (yep, there’s a difference between emotions & feelings), is vital in every season of parenthood. The key? Express yourself with raw honesty, no matter how uncomfortable that may be sometimes. Do you need your hubby to pitch in more? Tell him clearly how he can help lighten your load. Be specific; Men aren’t mind readers. Feeling resentful because his life hasn’t changed that much since the baby arrived? Express it to him and brainstorm ways you can carve out more ‘you-time’ to rebalance things. Whatever the issue, raise it for discussion before you reach boiling point. Arguments are more likely to occur when you let things build up, play the blame game, or pick a fight at the wrong time. 2am isn’t an ideal time to vent your parenting frustrations. So, be mindful of when you bring up concerns.
We all know the sex life of a new parents drastically nosedives when bub is breastfeeding round the clock and waking all night long. But that doesn’t mean romance needs to plummet too. Remember romantic intimacy doesn’t necessarily mean sex! There are plenty of ways to cultivate romance with your partner including regular date nights; child-free activities or hobbies together (including sport); celebrating special anniversaries (hello wedding anniversary!) and other special occasions (mother’s/father’s day); or simply making small romantic gestures like popping a love note in your partner’s briefcase for him to find in the office. The goal is to remain connected as husband and wife, not just as mum and dad; which sometimes means prioritizing each other before the children and having conversations that don’t revolve around the kids. After all, one day your children will grow and leave the family nest, and you’ll be left with each other. Oh and reconnecting sexually is always a sure way to rekindle the romantic fire.
Everyone on the planet sees the world through different eyes. And no matter how aligned your value systems are, parenthood is sure to highlight some of your differences as a couple. Whether you are deciding whether to co-sleep with bub, feed on demand, sleep train (or not!), or are establishing parental discipline approaches in your home, the chances are, you and your hubby won’t always see eye-to-eye on everything. He may be a free-range dad, while you’re a helicopter mum. Or perhaps you embrace a gentle parenting approach, while he adopts a more traditional authoritarian parenting style. The reality is, parenting is a job that we learn as we go along and we all do it a little differently. And while solidarity is important when it comes to parenting consistency, it’s also ok to hold opposite opinions on certain things – as long as you both learn to compromise and respect each other as partners and parents. Remember, you’re both human and both learning, so…focus on your commonalities rather than your differences, choose your battles, try your best to have each other’s backs, and let go of things that aren’t deal-breakers.
A great way to ensure you both have the chance to ‘fill your cup’ outside of parenting is to tag team. Whether that means your hubby schedules in some regular gym sessions while you book in a weekly creative class with a group of girlfriend’s, give yourselves a break from the kids…and each other. After all, maintaining your autonomy as adults is healthy for your sense of individual identity outside the family unit. And for your sanity! The key is to ensure you both have a fair trade-off by balancing the division of your parenting labour with an equal amount of recreation. If you do a yoga class, make sure he’s given the opportunity to enjoy his own leisure activities for the same amount of time, and vice versa. By sharing the parenting load, and balancing responsibilities with some fun, your partnership has the opportunity to breath and thrive.
Every marriage goes through its ups and downs. Parenting is the hardest job in the world and it’s easy for your relationship to fall into a rut from time to time. And while most of the time, marital speedbumps can be overcome without intervention, sometimes seeking the support and advice of a professional is necessary. Small humans have the ability to trigger some of our oldest, deepest (sometimes unconscious) emotional wounds, especially when we’re stretched thin and running on empty. Admitting that you’re struggling with an issue or feeling disconnected from your other half is not only healthy, but it’s also a normal part of sharing an intimate life with someone. By voicing your concerns and reaching out for help, you open the door of emotional transparency and give your partnership the chance to grow and strengthen. No relationship is perfect, but by actively working on it, you can help yours flourish and thrive.
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Writer: Rebecca Walker, The Conscious Wordsmith
When it comes to kids, monkey see, monkey do. Children often mimic the behaviour of their primary caregivers, so if you don’t want them spending hours on their iPads, you need to lead by example by getting off your phone. Easier said than done, I know, but the reality is, it’s extremely confusing (and hypocritical) for you to tell your kids they have to play outside, then sit in the park staring at your device. The solution? Practice mindfulness when it comes to any and all device use by setting boundaries and communicating them to your family. Moderation is fine as long as you communicate clearly with your children. Explain that Mama needs to do some work for an hour, but be true to your word and get off your laptop when you promised. Similarly, cut yourself some slack and let the kids watch TV for an hour, but set a timer so an hour doesn’t turn into three.
The cure for any bored child is the great outdoors. And while it’s easier for the hours to slip by when the sun is shining in summer, winter also a great opportunity to go on an outdoor adventure. Whether it’s the beach, park, playground, local skatepark or an overnight camping expedition, anything that gets your kids out of the house and into nature is a recipe for family fun. The holidays are a great chance to mix up your usual routines and go exploring. And since kids love the novelty of new environments, taking the kids on a road trip, enjoying a countryside bike ride, having a picnic in the park, or doing a day trip to the zoo is a win-win for everyone. The key is to engage your children in wholesome activities that inspire their minds, nourish their hearts, and feed their little souls.
If the weather is cold or rainy and heading outdoors is an impossibility, head indoors. Take the kids to an art exhibition or sign up for some activities at your local library. Introduce them to music or the theatre (not the cinema!) by seeing a live performance. Head to the aquarium so they can learn about underwater wildlife, or to the museum so they can learn about history. Visit a theme park or an indoor playground to burn off some steam. Do some dance lessons together, take some cooking classes, or set up a craft table at home and design some handmade creations. If you’re out of ideas (or patience), book them in for some holiday workshops, courses or camps. There is always options if you tap into your own creativity.
Whether it’s doing puzzles, playing board games or baking a cake, sometimes the best way to connect with your kids and distract them from technology, is to embrace old-fashioned activities. Think back to a time when smartphones and iPads weren’t an option and get creative. Pull out the paints, read some books, build Lego, teach them how to sew, practice yoga together, create a fortress den out of sheets in the living room or do some gardening in the backyard…do anything that fosters your child’s creativity without plugging into technology. Yes it’s more challenging and exhausting than letting Playschool babysit them, but the reward is making precious memories with your child.
As parents, we sometimes forget that boredom is healthy for children. Necessary even. In fact, countless studies have proven that boredom fosters imagination, creativity and problem-solving skills. By allowing our children to experience quiet downtime and boredom, we give them the opportunity to befriend life’s natural ebb and flow. Children are humans, not machines. Along with activity and stimulation, they need time to integrate and contemplate their experiences. How? By daydreaming and playing in an organic environment, away from artificial entertainment. This can be challenging in today’s world, where kids are constantly being bombarded with sensory stimulation; However by encouraging your children to create their own, self-directed fun, you are giving them the priceless gift of self-sufficient independence.
]]>Mother’s Day is a day dedicated to the Matriarch. A day to celebrate mamas and acknowledge the positive influence of mothers on society. Here I outline ways to mindfully celebrate this special day and bask your mama in meaningful love.
]]>Writer: Rebecca Walker, The Conscious Wordsmith
If there is one thing mothers want more of, it’s time. We are constantly racing the clock, trying to do alllllllll the things. And while motherhood has fluctuating seasons that ebb and flow, the value of time becomes more apparent as we age. Which is why honouring your mama with your presence and full attention is the ultimate gift you can give her on Mother’s Day. Yes, it’s also lovely to spoil her with flowers, choccies and thoughtful gifts; But what most mum’s love more than anything is to spend some precious time with the children they birthed. So, if it’s physically possible to spend time with your mama on Mother’s Day, carve out some time. Take her to lunch, see a movie together, grab a coffee and enjoy each other’s company as women. If being together in personal is a physical impossibility, Skype, FaceTime or Zoom her, or at the very least, call her to consciously connect on her special day.
While presents are a lovely gesture of appreciation, thoughtful acts of kindness always touch the heart more. Rather than opting for traditional gift-giving, consider a meaningful energy exchange instead. Whether that means making your mama a special video or photo book to let her know you’re thinking of her, writing her a grateful love note to express your appreciation, or gifting her an experience (like a spa sesh) rather than a ‘thing’. When contemplating ways to express your gratitude, consider her interests, not your own. Maybe that means taking her to a restaurant you despise because her favourite dessert is on the menu, or doing some retail therapy together even if you hate shopping. What matters more than anything is that you’re honouring her by putting her tastes, preferences and needs first.
Maybe you and your mum have a strained relationship. Maybe you’re estranged. Perhaps you were adopted. Or perhaps your mama has passed so can’t be accessed physically. Even if Mother’s Day is triggering, challenging or heartbreaking for you, you can still honour it in your own unique way. If you and your mama struggle to communicate well, a short, simple text message is enough to let your mum know she has crossed your mind. If you don’t know your birth mother, write her a letter, even if you don’t send it. If your mama has passed, perhaps visit her grave or set up a sacred alter to honour her. The simple act of looking at her photo, lighting a candle and speaking to her in your mind is all it takes to connect energetically with her soul. And while it’s not the same as seeing her in person or having a chat, it gives you the opportunity to express loving gratitude to the woman who bought you into the world.
Maybe the Hallmark factor of Mother’s Day makes you cringe. If so, think outside the box and make this date meaningful to you by expressing your mama appreciation in other ways. Perhaps that means reaching out to women who represent motherhood in your life, even if they’re not blood related. Give the female figures who have supported you through thick and thin some love. Or, reach out to your friends who are mums and bathe them in acknowledgement for all the hard work you’ve witnessed them do in their role as a mama. Or maybe you want to donate to a charity that supports mothers in need. No matter what your stance is on the commerciality of the date, ultimately Mother’s Day is about women supporting women. So show your support in ways that align with your personal values.
While honouring the lineage of women who have come before us is a beautiful aspect of the Mother’s Day tradition, it’s equally important to acknowledge our own role – as women and mothers – on this special day. So, take the time to recognise your positive influence and contributions as a mama. Pat yourself on the back for all the selfless service you have gifted your family. See yourself through the lens of your children and realise that you truly are the queen of your home. On a practical level, gift yourself some time and space on Mother’s day to engage in an activity that gives you joy, or at the very least, fills your cup. If you’re a single mama, go buy yourself some flowers! Lash out on that special dress you’ve been wanting to buy. Forget about the laundry for one day and drink a leisurely cup of tea instead. Do anything that elevates your mood and allows you to feel seen and valued as a mother. After all, self-love is the most valuable gift you can ever give yourself.
]]>Writer: Rebecca Walker, The Conscious Wordsmith
Prenatal yoga has many different benefits, from purely physical to more subtle spiritual ones. In general, prenatal yoga strengthens the muscles that are important for a healthy pregnancy and birth. It also builds stamina while improving flexibility and balance.
Another very important aspect is the breath. Yoga helps to maintain a good breathing pattern which is compromised during later stages of pregnancy. Furthermore, prenatal yoga teaches you useful breathing techniques for labour.
Mentally, pregnancy can be quite an overwhelming time and yoga assists in lowering stress levels. It promotes mindfulness – in fact the entire yoga practice is a mindfulness practice. Meditation and relaxation postures are a great way to wind down when feeling worried or overwhelmed. I also teach beautiful meditation and visualisation techniques to prepare for labour.
During some of these practices my students connect to something greater than themselves. They might experience a greater connection to the growing life in them. The last point I would like to mention is the social component of joining a prenatal course. The coming together is called Sangha in yoga and is one of the most important aspects. Pregnant ladies and their bodies are going through profound changes, and it is important to share feelings, worries and experiences.
The Prenatal Yoga Therapy Course is a 5-week group course with an initial Yoga Therapy Consultation with me. I create personalised yoga therapy programs for each student that they take home and practice at home, but also during the group sessions. It is specifically designed for pregnant ladies who suffer from pain (back pain, pelvic girdle pain etc.) and other discomforts due to pregnancy. This also includes women with general fear or anxiety around childbirth or motherhood in general.
The Postnatal Yoga Therapy Course is also a 5-week course with an initial consultation, but after bub is born and when the woman feels ready to start some gentle exercises. During the consultation we discuss the birth and goals that would like to be achieved in the postpartum period. She then receives a unique program to be practiced at home and later on in the group sessions.
The Matrescence Circles focus on supporting the new mum in her role as a mother. Matrescence describes the fundamental change and transition a woman goes through when she becomes a mother. This is often overlooked and I wanted to create something for mums where they feel acknowledged and heard. We discuss, journal, reflect and share our experiences, challenges and highs & lows in a supportive and non-judgemental environment. Women gain a new understanding about their role, but also their life. I usually organise a guest speaker for one of these sessions as well. This is for any mother with a young child.
Meditation and visualisations are an effective and important aspect of prenatal yoga. They help to reduce stress, calm the nervous system and connect the mother to their unborn baby. Leading up to labour, certain meditations and visualisations work on letting go of involuntary tension and support the ability to relax fully which is crucial if the mother aims for an unassisted and unmedicated birth.
Certain meditations use the breath as their main technique. By focussing on the breath, the woman in labour stays calmer and more focussed which will help with managing labour pain. One other point I would like to mention is that a lot of the strategies that I teach help women to clear their heads of unwanted thoughts and they also help them to fall asleep more easily. Almost all techniques can be successfully used during the postnatal period as well.
Motherhood is a substantial shift in a woman’s life. Their world all of a sudden changes and other priorities crystalise. Women need support in their new role and traditionally this was being catered for by their community and family. Nowadays, families live far apart and mothers do not have that support network to fall back on anymore.
A non-judgemental tribe of other women can somewhat replace this network. New mothers need a place to share, cry and being heard. Ideally this tribe also sets up an internal baby-sitting roster where each mum can then have a bit of free time while one or two other mums look after her baby. We all know we can not do it alone, we need other people, other mums so that we do not burn out.
Birth and Pregnancy:
“Gentle Birth, Gentle Mothering: The wisdom and science of gentle choices in pregnancy, birth and parenting” by Sarah J. Buckley
“Mindful Hypnobirthing” by Sophie Fletcher
Parenting:
“Your Self-Confident Baby: How to encourage your child’s natural abilities – fom the very start” by Magda Gerber
“Parenting from the inside out” by Daniel J Siegel
Other:
“Finding the Magic in Mommyhood: How to create the illusion of sanity amid raging hormones, sleep deprivation, and diaper rash” by Sara Sadik
“Born to Breastfeed: The first six weeks and beyond” by Rowana Gray
“The Discontented Little Baby Book” by Dr Pamela Douglas
I try to give advice only sparingly as I find new mothers are bombarded with advice from friends, family and even strangers. When they express that they are nervous about birth, I remind them that it IS only one day in their life and that they are doing everything they can to prepare their body, mind and soul by doing one of my courses and accessing other information and possibly completing other courses elsewhere.
When asked about the transition to motherhood, I am honest, and I share that a major shift is about to happen. They need to know, and I feel like I have not been told this in a kind and compassionate way. I also recommend that they prepare a postpartum plan where they write down all the support services that they may need to access, especially in the early days. Days can feel like weeks with a newborn, and so lonely. I also recommend writing some affirmations and post them all around the house for the new mum to see throughout the day and be reminded that this too shall pass.
I am a mama of an almost two-year-old girl with another baby on the way. I personally stayed home for the first 13 months and only taught a couple of yoga classes and courses when my partner wasn’t working himself. We do not have any family nearby, so I rely on his support a lot. I found once my girl was a little bit older it was easier to get my work done while still spending a lot of time with her. Daycare was a good choice for us. I love spending time with her and taking her to different activities, like swimming or playgroups, but I also value the time I have to myself and even work. For me, it was very important to have a life outside the mama life. I needed contact with other adults and not talk about babies all the time.
The advice that I can give is, think about what you can do in the perimeters that you have. It might not mean that you can return to work in the capacity that you were in pre children, but it can give you a starting point. I have also witnessed some other mums who have not returned to work at all and embrace the stay at home mum lifestyle, while others have created a little online business. One point to stress is that do not feel guilty for whatever choice you are making.
My favourite thing while working with pregnant women and new mothers is that I am their guide for a short amount of time in their own journey. I feel so much compassion for pregnant women and maybe even more for new mothers. I have been there, and I can share my own experiences. I hope that something I tell them helps them along their way. It is a wonderful experience to watch a pregnant woman reach full term and come out the other side as a new mother.
For more information about Janine’s yoga classes, visit her site at https://www.yoga-tlc.com/
]]>Writer: Rebecca Walker, The Conscious Wordsmith
The most effective way to get kids to help out with household chores, is to give them age-appropriate tasks that they can accomplish and eventually master. Even simple jobs, such as packing up toys after use, teaches your littles that messes don’t magically clean themselves and that their contribution is important. Toddlers can help out by tidying play areas, including re-shelfing books and helping set the table for meals. Pre-schoolers can help prepare meals by helping out in the kitchen (supervised of course) and tidying up afterwards (washing or drying up). School-aged kids can help fold laundry, set the table each meal and assist with other chores such as feeding the family pet, watering house plants and making their bed each day.
Routine and consistency are key to getting little helpers onboard for daily or weekly chores. If your kids are responsible for making their own beds, encourage them to do it as soon as they get up. If they’re responsible for feeding the family pet, get them to do it before dinner to remind them that the pet is hungry too. If they don’t like a task they’ve been allocated, get them to choose one instead. Then rotate tasks. This teaches them that we all have to do things we don’t necessarily enjoy sometimes. The most important thing is that their contribution is consistent. Like brushing their teeth or reading a bedtime story, chores should become a natural part of the family routine.
One of the big reasons for getting children to participate in household chores is to teach them responsibility and accountability. Consequently it’s important to outline why it’s important that certain tasks be completed in a timely manner (if the rubbish doesn’t get taken out it starts to smell etc.). Creating a check list or reward chart can be a good incentive to convince reluctant children to help mum with ‘boring’ house tasks. It’s also important to praise your children when they do a good job of the chores they’ve been designated. After all, they’re more likely to continue contributing if they know it pleases you.
The best way to gets kids involved in housework is to do it with them. If you’re doing laundry, ask them to hand you pegs as you hang it on the line. If you’re washing up, hand them a tea towel and ask them to dry everything. If you’re vacuuming the floor, hand them a broom and ask them to sweep up alongside you. By completing tasks together, they can enjoy a sense of connection and achievement. Even if your child is too young to help you prepare meals in the kitchen, they can always stir a mixture, peel veggies, or wipe the table down before and after meals. Similarly, kids usually thrive when given a particular task, so asking them to help mama by carrying a small bag of groceries from the car to the house gives them a sense of purpose and helps build their confidence.
Since one of the reasons for allocating chores is to teach kids responsibility, it’s also important to teach them consequences if tasks aren’t completed. This doesn’t necessarily need to involve punishment, but it can certainly mean delayed gratification if they have been working towards a particular goal on a reward chart. It’s important to clearly communicate to your kids, ‘chores are not an option’. Everyone who lives in the house has certain chores that need completing each day, no negotiables. If your child forgets, or neglects, to do their chores it’s up to you to reinforce your expectations. If they know you will do their jobs for them when they forget, they’ll never learn to be autonomous.
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Writer: Rebecca Walker, The Conscious Wordsmith
Featuring a modern design, one adjustable size, and OEKO-TEX STANDARD 100 certified fabrics, EcoNaps cloth nappies are a popular Aussie brand that is made in Byron Bay. With easy-to-use snap fastenings, and lined with ultra-absorbent bamboo, these cute reusables guarantee comfort without the leaks. Able to grow with baby, from newborn to toddler, the adjustable style ensures you get mileage out of each nappy. Coming in a range of eye-pleasing designs, their range includes boys, girls and gender-neutral prints, to cater to all aesthetic tastes.
https://www.ecoriginals.com.au/collections/reusables
A fave with Earth-loving mamas, Eco Naps reusable cloth nappies are stylish, practical, ethically made and sustainably packaged. Made from super soft fabrics (bamboo blend + OEKO-TEX STANDARD 100 certified), and coming in adaptable sizing that fits from newborn to toddler ( up to 16 kg), your bub will be comfy and dry. Each nappy comes with 2 inserts and can be thrown in the washing machine for easy cleaning. Featuring minimalist prints in a variety of hues, your bubba’s butt will look cute as can be.
Easy to use and made from post-consumer recycled plastic, the eco-friendly, reusable designs from Mimi & Co, care for your baby and the planet. Flaunting a one-size design that stretches as bub grows, each nappy has tummy panel leak guards and wide back elastics. Soft lined, inner double-gussets provide ultimate leak-proof protection and stay-dry, moisture-wicking jersey keeps bub dry. When it comes to colours and patterns, Mimi & Co has a gorgeous range of prints that cater to boys, girls and style-loving mamas.
Claiming to be the most absorbable reusable nappy on the market (tested to hold 1026 ml of fluid!), Modibodi is a market leader and mum fave. Featuring antimicrobial layers, polybrush lining and OEKO-TEX STANDARD 100 certified materials, these robust yet comfortable tush covers ensure no leaks. Designed to feel like a disposable, ModiBodi’s unique fit is a big hit with mothers who are looking for a planet-friendly option that can take your child from baby to toddlerdom.
Featuring eye-catching artwork designed by Australian artists, the pretty prints of Bare & Boho are complimented by a sturdy design that has been created for little ones on the move. Containing four layers of absorbent fabric, with double-layered side gusseting around the thigh contour, the bamboo/hemp/cotton insert ensures maximum anti-leak protection. With a fit that ranges in size from teeny tiny (premature) to toddler (up to 18kg), Bare & Boho covers all baby bases. Organic and easy to clean, the fabrics used inside are eco-friendly and contoured to ensure optimal fit. Superficially, the bohemian motifs are a mini-fashionista’s dream.
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