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Home & Interiors

Tips for making your garden a safe and fun environment for kids

We have been renovating our house over the last number of years and while the inside is nearing completion, an equally challenging task is next on the agenda……the outside spaces.  Neither of us are green fingered and the thought of tackling the overgrown mess outside fills me with such dread.  We definitely need some expert intervention on this one even for some consultancy. One key proviso for me a safe and fun environment for the kids. I decided what better to do than to reach other so my fellow blogger to see what they have done with their gardens.

Garden Safety 

Garden Safety - locking shed

Garden Safety

First up some great tips around keeping the area itself safe and enclosed.  Elizabeth from The Homemakers Journal had some great suggestions in terms of basic safety, keeping the tools and equipment in separate storage areas.  Also crucially and a very important consideration, keep all sprays and fertilisers out of reach of little hands (and animals).  Jo from Cup of Toast also highlighted the importance of keeping hazards out the way, I love her suggestion of giving the kids their own shed that way they are contained and away from potential hazards or even escaping!

Pete who writes at Household Money Saving highlighted the importance of making sure the toys themselves are in good working condition.  This is a brilliant suggestion and probably one im guilty of not doing enough off particularly for the likes of trampolines and swings which could pose a risk if not installed or used correctly.

I love Natalie from Mummy and Moose suggestion of training the dog to do its business in one area and training the kids to avoid! Genius!! While we don’t have any pets one suggestion that ill definitely be implementing is from Sarah of A Few Favourite Things of keeping the wheelie bins separate. Safety aside we have 3 and they are so unsightly looking!

I also love Carolin of Mummy Alarm suggestion of  soft surfaces for playing on.  I have two boys and they just love playing rough, climbing and skipping around the place.  Hopefully a soft surface would lessen the cuts and scraps.  Having done my research (extensive research!) I have found ESP Play who amongst other products offer a great range of soft surfaces. I really like the artifical grass or the rubber mulch. I’m all about low maintenance but practical solutions.

Garden Fun

The bit the boys will love!! Both Stacey of One Small Human and Anoushka of Spitting Yarn mentioned mud kitchens!! I have never heard of this before but I suspect the boys would love it, quite literally, a sectioned off area with some kitchen utensils and some muck/mud. You can’t beat the messy play to keep them entertained for hours.  Emma from Our Fairytale Adventure suggested a sensory garden including a fruit and veg patch. I love the idea of growing some of our own vegetable so this is something im definitely looking into. Check out Emma’s gorgeous garden at the above lunch, that pergola is some serious garden goals!

Play equipment 

climbing frames

Pic Credit: espplay.co.uk

The boys really want a tree house or some kind of play equipment and the Dada Fairy has promised them that he would get them something when the garden is done! I always end up doing so much research im a total planner and need to know everything! But have a look a the tangled equipment from ESP Play .  Absolutely love the look of them and I know my kids would love them too and no doubt proving hours of fun out in the garden.  I do note it would need one of the above mentioned soft surfaces due to the inevitable fall risk but I really do love them and combined with the soft surface above I think it would be a fantastic investment in our garden.  One of the things im lusting after myself is a hammock from Hammock Giant.

How amazing would it be to be chilling with a book on one of the fab hommocks on a stand. So fab.

One of the most interesting things I did come across while looking for children’s play equipment was the study on the aforementioned ESP Play site which showed as a result of extensive independent research commissioned by ESP and carried out by Liverpool John Moores University, they discovered that the average amount of physical activity taking place during PE lessons was remarkably low. This really shocked me and to my mind while the tangled equipment looks good it is doing far more than just that, it is actively encouraging physical activity. A really huge benefit in my mind.

Lots of  fantastic tips and inspiration above, however one thing I do know for sure is that ill definitely be enlisting the services of a gardener when its all done to keep on top of the routine maintenance. Left to myself and the Dada Fairy we wouldn’t have a clue where to start!!

Ill look forward to revealing the finished product over the next few months.

 

Note: This is a collaborative post 

 

Mummascribbles
Fairy Travels

Itinerary ideas for Iceland

Since our trip last September to Iceland lots of people have asked for tips and advice on what to do to Iceland, sample itineraries, “must see” attractions.   I knew a few of my fellow blog buddies had been to Iceland I thought i’d reach out and get a variety of ideas on their top picks.

waterfall

Pic Credit: The Mamma Fairy Blog

For many people and particularly given just how expensive Iceland is, their preference would be to book via website who can help you book the entire trip in one place.  With WowAir now defunct, there are less flight options for getting to this wonderful destination therefore I can really see how using the services of a site to assist you to book the entire package would be very appealing.  One option im aware of is the Voyage Prive website where they describe themselves as  “a members only luxury travel club, offering unforgettable getaways, at unbelievable prices“.  I love a deal and I know a lot of people like the security of having a packages as opposed to DIY, so well worth checking out and not just for Iceland, there cover worldwide holidays from ski trip to luxury resorts to city breaks.

Iceland “things to do”

The over riding thing I will say about Iceland is that it totally lives up to its reputation as being magical – the scenery is breathtaking, the people friendly and the thermal spas well……you just have to try them. And before you ask……yes it is expensive but to me, and my husband will agree it is totally worth it. It was a bucket list trip for us – a once in a lifetime – but I left a bit of my heart there and I have to go back. We loved it so much

Geysirs in Iceland

Pic Credit: The Mamma Fairy Blog

Our visit was short and we had young kids (6 and 3 at the time of travel) so we carefully planned out itinerary, for a sneak peak of what we did see our Golden Circle trip here my  kids are still asking to go back to that wonderful Ice cream place before Gullfoss. I really do love looking back at our pics, really does make me want to go and book it again.

We also did Fontana as we booked last minute, the Blue Lagoon was booked out. A top tip if the Blue Lagoon is top of your list is to book early. Please also respect the cultural (and hygienic) advice to shower before entering the thermal pools. It was definitely one of the highlights as it was quiet when we were there, we had loads of time and space and the kids were made very welcome. And try the bread – drooling as I type. Quite  honestly the nicest I have ever tasted. It is known as  Geothermal bakery and the break is cooked in the ground for 24 hours!!

My kids are a bit older know and are really dying to go back, my oldest is obsessed with all things marine and whale watching is the top of his wish list not if but when we go back. Key requirement for him it must be eco friendly and sustainable and thankfully that option does exist.

If we were to go back to Iceland, I’d like to try renting a camper. I’ve heard about other bloggers’ camping adventures in Iceland, the kids would probably love it. I visited Cozy Campers website, which has a range of budget and premium campervans, and yes, I already have ideas for “things to do” on our next trip.

 

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Features

Its good to be bored….

This morning at the football sideline (the place of all great debates lately) the conversation naturally drifted to Christmas and what the kids were looking for. By way of context the kids at this football class are between 4 and  7 so pretty young.  There was emphatic agreement that the less technology the better and that we would try dis-way the high end tech (for lots of reasons) for another few years.

bored colouring in

Pic Credit: Pixabay

I recalled some research conducted by  BIC® as part of its Young Artist Award, the study found that kids complain about being bored on average 122 times a month – that’s 1,500 times a year. With the words “I’m bored” being dreaded by 69% of parents.  In response to the findings, renowned child education consultant Dr Martin Stephen said that “boredom is a brilliant platform from which children learn to use their imaginations …. It’s important that we continue to develop core skills such as drawing and writing.” I couldn’t agree more. I recall myself as a child spending hours either outside playing or colouring/ painting (aka making a mess).  With a world so consumed by all things tech it can be hard to to do this.  I remember at a talk up the school where the Principal mentioned for kids nowadays the world exists almost like 5 minute you tube sound bites which is actually a little scary. Life isn’t fast paced, its slow and steady with boredom being an essential component to encourage kids to think outside of the box and figure out themselves what to do.

Interesting findings

I have set out below some additional findings which I think are really interesting and perhaps even for some of them possibly understated!

  • Kids spend just 3 hours a day away from their screens
  • Only 31% of parents admit to giving a bored child a digital device to keep them occupied
  • Kids complain about being bored 122 times a month – that’s 1,500 times a year
  • 69% of parents dread the words “I’m bored”
  • the go-to forms of entertainment for children include watching TV (68%), playing with a tablet/iPad (61%) and watching YouTube (60%)

 

What do you think, do you restrict your kids tech or do you give them free reign? Love to here more in the comments below

Features

Spooky Risotto

Spooky Risotto Receipe

My kids absoultely love this time of year and somehow I seemed to have got roped into hosting 15 kids from 8 months to 6 years old. It can be really hard to cater for such a variety of ages therefore im delighted to work with Organix to bring you this super delicious recipe which will hopefully be a huge hit with the kids young and old.

Suitable for 7+ months
10 – 30 minutes to prepare
60+ minutes to cook
Serves 2 adults and a baby

Ingredients

1 butternut squash
A little olive oil for drizzling
1 onion
2 tbsp olive oil
2 cloves garlic
180g  rice
300ml boiling water / stock (ideally homemade with no added salt, or a low salt alternative)
30g cream cheese / soft goats’ cheese
30g tasty grated cheese / Parmesan

Halloween decorations:
1 green pepper
Large handful of pitted black olives

How to make

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 200°C / 180°C fan / Gas 6.

Step 2: Cut the butternut squash in half to separate the straight ‘neck’ from the round base. Peel and dice the straight neck and cut into 1cm cubes Cut the round base down the middle from top to bottom, to create two halves and scoop out the seeds. Place all the butternut squash onto a baking tray and drizzle with oil. Bake for 20 – 25 minutes until nicely roasted. Scoop the soft squash out of the round butternut halves and mash or blend to create a puree. Reserve the roasted cubes of squash till later.

Step 3: Whilst the butternut squash is roasting, peel and finely chop the onion, then sauté in olive oil in a 10-30 minutes saucepan over a low heat for about 5 -10 minutes. Once softened, crush the garlic cloves and add for another minute.

Step 4: Add the dry rice and stir through, frying for approx. 2 minutes. Then add a splash of boiling water/stock so that the risotto sizzles. Stir thoroughly.

Step 5: Gradually add a little (approx. 100ml at a time) of the water/stock stirring all the time. With each addition, wait until the rice has absorbed all the water before adding any more.

Step 6: Add the pureed butternut squash about half way through cooking, when the rice is beginning to plump up. Stir in to create a beautiful orange risotto. Continue to add the water/stock slowly, stirring often.

Step 7: Once the rice is soft and has absorbed all the water, stir through the remaining roasted butternut cubes and continue to heat for another couple of minutes, until the butternut squash cubes are warmed through. Remove the pan from the heat, and stir through the cream cheese / soft goats’ cheese and grated Parmesan to give a silky texture.

Step 8: Mash or whizz in a blender to suit your little one’s texture requirements – if you need the rice to be runnier just add some milk. For older children and adults the roasted butternut squash cubes add a delicious contrast in texture. This risotto is delicious at anytime of year, but makes a fun centre piece at a Halloween party with the simple addition of a few black olives and some green pepper, to create a spooky pumpkin face! See our serving suggestions.

Top tips

This risotto can either be served hot in a giant serving bowl with a big pumpkin lantern face on the top. Or the same can be created on a smaller scale in individual serving bowls. Alternatively, you can create a rather fun ghoul-faced army of risotto balls, by adding a little extra cheese, quickly cooling the risotto, then forming to bite-size balls, perfect for little fingers. Decorate each ball with a Halloween pumpkin face, using green pepper and black olives, then put into the fridge to firm up. These are best served cold. For food safety always ensure you cool the risotto very quickly, by spreading out on a large surface, use clean hands to make it into balls and refrigerate as soon as possible. The recipe will make approx. 25 mini risotto balls.

 

Let me know if you try it would love to see your  pics – for more recipe ideas see Organix

Features

Plum Recipe for kids with thanks to Organix

Its plum season!

I’m no food blogger and I make no secret of the fact I rely on some of my lovely blog buddies to help feed my growing pair with healthy nutritious food – im talking about you One Yummy Mummy. I like to eat it alright but im a hopeless cook!  This week its a little something different and im sharing a recipe with thanks to Organix.  It’s a delicious receipe for Organic Roasted Plums.  Not only are plums in season in Ireland in August and September, the month of September also celebrates all things Organic.

Some interesting facts that I never knew about plums!!

  • Plums are a rich source of vitamins C and K and dietary fibers
  • It can take 3-5 years after planting for the trees to bear fruit
  • There are actually over 200 varieties of plum in the world!!!
  • Plums are used to produce wine or spirits in some countries!

Organic September Roasted Plums

12+ Months
10 – 30 minutes to prepare
10 – 30 minutes to cook
Serves 2 adults and 2 children

Ingredients:

Roasted Plum treat

Pic Credit – Organix

Roasted plums
3 large plums
Coconut oil (or melted butter) to brush
Almond & oat crumble
3 tbsp porridge oats (or gluten free oat)
1 tbsp ground almonds (or desiccated coconut if nut allergies)
½ tsp ground cinnamon
1 tbsp melted coconut oil (or butter)
2 tbsp maple syrup (or honey for children over 12 months)

Mascarpone cream
150g of mascarpone
3 tsp lemon juice
3 tsp maple syrup (or honey for children over 12 months)
¼ tsp vanilla extract
A couple of mint leaves (optional)

 

How to make:

Step 1 –   Preheat the oven to 200°C/fan 180°C/gas mark 6. Line a baking tray with parchment paper

Step 2 –   Prepare the crumble by mixing the oats, ground almonds and cinnamon powder together in a small  bowl. Add melted coconut oil (or butter) and maple syrup. Stir until you get a crumble texture

Step 3 –  Spread crumble on baking tray. Bake for 10-15 mins until golden and crisp. Remove from oven and set aside to cool down

Step 4 –   Put the grill on to 275°C

Step 5 –  Cut plums in half and remove stones carefully

Step 6  – Brush each plum all over with some melted coconut oil (or butter)

Step 7 –  Arrange plums in an oven proof dish, cut side up

Step 8 –  Place until the grill for around 5 mins or until the plums soften

Step 9 –  While the plums are in the oven, mix mascarpone with lemon juice, maple syrup and vanilla extract in a small bowl

Step 10 –   To serve, dollop the mascarpone cream on a plate. Add 2 halves plum per adult or 1 half plum per  child on top of mascarpone cream. Sprinkle with crumble.

And there you have it – Orangic Roasted Plums.  Let me know if you give this a go, even better show me the pic’s!

 

 

Reviews for Mama & Babas

Paw Patrol Sea Patroller Review

Paw Patrol Sea Patroller Toy

Paw Patrol Sea Patroller

Paw Patrol Sea Patroller – Our Review

You have to picture the scene for this one…..you are four years old and love the TV show Paw Patrol and wait for it …..this lands through the door! I only wish I videoed his reaction. I can only liken his reaction to my own if I won the lotto!!

He is beyond thrilled as he had been eyeing it up on the TV ad for the last number of weeks.   The product itself is recommended for ages 3 plus and retails at a hefty €80.  So whats included for the price -key features include:

Paw Patrol Sea Patroller contents

Paw Patrol Sea Patroller contents

  •  The Sea Patroller itself can be converted to both a land and a sea vehicle quite easily (but its not a water toy!);
  • It does light up and make sounds (it takes  batteries but they are included);
  • It comes with Ryder and his quad or ATV as im reliably informed.  Not sure I knew what an ATV was at 4!
  • A cage to lower Ryder down for his rescues
  • A life ring launcher (this is what the kids totally love!!) – it quite literally launches the life ring when you push the button;
  • Its quite big, definitely much bigger than I expected but im not complaining –  it has the wow factor and its the ideal size of sharing and going on “secret missions” as my pair call them.

Mamma Fairy Verdict

I’m calling it now, I think this going to be one of the hot toys for 2017 – last year it was the Paw Patrol Air Patroller among my sons pre school friends and I sense this will be this years equivalent.  Its a big toy with lots of fun parts to it and therefore lots of opportunity for kids to let their imaginations run wild.

Just one word of caution though, it doesn’t come with any of the pups. My Paw Patrol fanatics already had most if not all of them so wasn’t an issue but perhaps something to keep in mind.  I think Santa will have his work cut out this year making Sea Patrollers and if the excitement here is anything to go by  I suspect this toy will be very well received.

It’s readily available both on line and in most toys shops.

 

Note: We were sent this toy for the purpose of this review however this in no way influences mine or the boys opinion where appropriate.

 

Cuddle Fairy