Tots to Teens

29/06/2024

"The natural state of motherhood is unselfishness. When you become a mother, you are no longer the centre of your own universe. You relinquish that position to your children."
~ Jessica Lange

29/06/2024

WIN A COPY OF THE STORY OF YOU

Easy Enter ✅ simply react to this post and follow the link to enter your details

The Story of You , by Rose Stanley (Austin Macaulay RRP$29.99) is a book which affirms every child’s life story as a treasure.

27/06/2024

Ignite your curiosity as you delve into the wonders of Matariki.

Matariki signifies the cluster of stars known as the Pleiades, rising during mid-winter. The rise of Matariki in the winter skies is an important time in the Māori calendar – it signifies Māori New Year. Historically, new year celebrations provided the opportunity for whānau to come together to acknowledge the year gone by, prepare and plan for the year ahead; to celebrate with kai, kōrero, ceremony and entertainment.

Identifying Matariki Stars: Located in the northeast horizon before sunrise. Look for Tautoru (Orion’s belt) and move northward to spot a cluster of stars, Matariki.

Māori Legend: Matariki's creation myth involves Tāwhirimātea, the god of winds, tearing out his eyes in anger and casting them into the heavens, forming Matariki.

Significance of Each Matariki Star:
» Pōhutukawa: Represents remembrance of departed loved ones.
» Tupuānuku: Associated with crops and harvest from the earth.
» Tupuārangi: Symbolizes food sources from the sky, like birds and fruits.
» Waitī: Linked with freshwater bodies and the life they sustain.
» Waitā: Represents the ocean and its bounty.
» Waipuna-ā-Rangi: Connected to rain, hail, and snow.
» Ururangi: Linked with various winds.
» Hiwa-i-te-Rangi: A wishing star, aiding in realising hopes and aspirations for the upcoming year.

If Matariki is new to you, don't worry—embracing it can be as simple as spending quality time with loved ones, sharing stories, enjoying traditional foods, or even starting your own unique traditions to honor this special time.

27/06/2024

WIN A Munchh NZ BUNDLE

Easy Enter ✅ simply react to this post and follow the link to enter your details

Tastebuds, it’s time to meet MUNCHH!

27/06/2024

Discover the exciting world of STEAM Careers in our July Holiday Programme!

From engineering and coding robotics to building 3D models and solving puzzles through experimentation, our fun and engaging activities take young learners on hands-on LEGO® adventures, exploring the fields of Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics.

Available Auckland-wide, Hamilton, Tauranga and Wellington.

Book Now:
https://www.bricks4kidz.co.nz/lego-steam-holiday-programme/

27/06/2024

Creating Space for Boredom...

When kids have some downtime, it can actually be a good thing. It gives them a chance to use their imagination and come up with their own fun. An empty afternoon can turn into a new game or a creative project. Plus, learning to entertain themselves is a valuable skill.

Instead of filling every moment with structured activities, allow for some open-ended time. This space encourages children to think independently and explore their interests. They might pick up a book, start drawing, or invent a new game. These moments of unstructured time help develop creativity and problem-solving skills. So next time boredom strikes, embrace it as an opportunity for your child to grow in unexpected ways.

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26/06/2024

✨ NEW ISSUE OUT NOW ✨

Step inside the latest issue of Tots To Teens! Including your chance to win some amazing prizes (check out pg #17 😉)!

We have some great reads in this issue

📖 How storytelling builds resilience
🔢 Making numbers fun for the little learners
📚 Reading, ‘Riting, and 'Rithmetics
🌟 What’s on these holidays?
❄️ Winter wellness kit
🥧 Get puffed with these yummy recipes
🎒 Holiday survival guide with the in-laws
🎨 Crafty creations: fun and practical jar crafts

https://totstoteens.co.nz/read-now/

Enjoy xx

On our cover are Millar and Van, photographed by @‌leahhoskinphotography

26/06/2024

Australia's favourite parenting author and podcaster Maggie Dent is bringing her popular full-day Calming Today's Anxious Kids conference to Auckland on 14th September. This conference, also featuring child and adolescent psychiatrist Dr Kaylene Henderson and music therapist Allison Davies has been touring Australia since 2019, sharing tangible strategies for anyone who lives or works with kids birth-12, who may be experiencing stress or anxiety.

Learn More: www.maggiedent.com/calminganxiouskids

Tots to Teens followers can go in the draw to win a double pass by emailing [email protected] (subject: Tots to Teens) by 1st July. Winners will be announced by email on 3rd July.

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T&Cs: By entering the competition you will automatically receive email updates about Maggie's occasional events in New Zealand (unless you request to opt out). Your details will not be shared with third parties. The prize consists of 2 tickets to the event on Saturday, 14th September at the Novotel and Ibis Auckland Eckerslie, valued at $430, and which includes entry, morning tea, lunch, free resources and a manual. The winner is responsible for their own transport, parking, accommodation and any other costs associated with their attendance of

A one-day conference for anyone living or working with children up to age 12 who are experiencing stress and anxiety. An event for our times.

24/06/2024

🐬 Long Weekend Adventure 🐬

This long weekend, Black Cat Cruises are encouraging families to spend quality time together on an adventure perfect for the whole crew. They are taking a further discount off their Family Pass, down to $220 (discount automatically applied at the checkout) for 2 adults and up to 3 kids. They’ll even have a little gift for every adventurous kid that comes along 🙌

Book now: https://tinyurl.com/4ju2tthj

Voted the number 1 wildlife activity in New Zealand, your award winning cruise is packed with highlights including the rare, NZ native dolphin – the Hector’s Dolphin, as well as penguins and other sea birds.

24/06/2024

Kids Stay & Eat Free at Rydges Wellington

School holidays are sorted at Rydges Wellington! Kids Stay and Eat Free (Ts&Cs apply) so book your July School Holiday adventure now before it sells out. Whether you want a staycation for a change of scene or a trip to the capital to make memories, book an unforgettable holiday complete with delicious food and a heated pool.

Learn More: https://t.ly/n2p9L

23/06/2024

WINTER WELLNESS: SKIN EDITION
Tips to help prevent itchy, dry or flaky skin during winter!

In Winter our skin cries out for some extra help and attention so it doesn’t let us down. One of the ways it tells us we need to give it some attention, is when it becomes itchy, dry and flaky.

22/06/2024

It's unfortunate that we have to scrutinise our finances so closely, but in this cost of living crisis it's important to manage our money wisely to make the most of what we have.

Here are 10 sneaky expenses every family should uncover to save money and ease the financial burden.

21/06/2024

https://totstoteens.co.nz/recipes/oaty-choc-muffins

Your kids will love these oaty chocolate muffins, the perfect treat. Quick and easy to make and great for the kids' lunchboxes!

20/06/2024

WIN A SNIFFLE-SOOTHING BUNDLE

Easy Enter ✅ simply react to this post and follow the link to enter your details

New Zestt Breathe+ Jnr is a research-based formula for children two and over to support immunity and lung health.

19/06/2024

GAMES FOR BATHTIME
Turn bathtime into 'funtime' with these joyous games your kids will remember forever.

Fill up the tub with bubble bath and play one of these fun games!

18/06/2024

Tips for creating a simple childhood 🤍

18/06/2024

WIN A FAMILY PASS FOR A MOVIE OF YOUR CHOICE*

Easy Enter ✅ simply react to this post and follow the link to enter your details

Stuck on finding school holidays ideas that don't break the bank?

17/06/2024

BUSY BODIES
Children learn through play! See our list of low-cost or free ideas to get them moving.

Children learn through play, and engaging in a wide variety of regular daily play activities will help their growth and development.

17/06/2024

Kids Stay & Eat Free at Rydges Wellington!

Quality time has never been this fun! Kids Stay and Eat Free at Rydges Wellington (Ts&Cs apply). Whether you want a staycation for a change of scene or a trip to the capital to make memories, book an unforgettable holiday complete with delicious food and a heated pool.

Learn more:

Quality time has never been this fun. Take the family on a classic New Zealand getaway, and give them the time of their lives. The bonus is that you’ll have a blast too.

15/06/2024

TWO-INGREDIENT COOKIES
Mix together 2 incredibly nutritious ingredients, cook until firm and golden, and enjoy for an after-school snack.

Ingredients

15/06/2024

Thumb Sucking: Ages and Stages
» Newborns to 6 months: Thumb sucking starts early, often in the womb. It helps with feeding and comfort.
» 6-12 months: Babies use thumb sucking to soothe themselves, especially during stress or sleep.
» 12-24 months: Thumb sucking peaks as a self-comfort behavior.
» 24-36 months: The habit begins to decrease as children engage in more activities.
» 3-4 years: Thumb sucking diminishes as children become socially aware.
» 5 years: Most children stop thumb sucking, influenced by peers and social interactions.
» 5-7 years: Persistent thumb sucking is less common and may indicate emotional needs.
» 7+ years: Continued thumb sucking can cause dental issues, such as misaligned teeth.

Dental and Health Considerations
» Dental Issues: Prolonged thumb sucking can lead to malocclusion and other oral health problems.
» Emotional Factors: Persistent thumb sucking may indicate anxiety or stress.
» Intervention: Gentle encouragement and positive reinforcement can help. In some cases, consulting a paediatricians or dentist may be necessary.

Tips for Parents
» Be Patient: Most children outgrow thumb sucking naturally.
» Positive Reinforcement: Praise and reward non-sucking behaviour.
» Identify Triggers: Provide comfort or distraction during triggering situations.
» Offer Alternatives: Use comfort objects or engage the child in hand-busy activities.

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14/06/2024

WIN A SODASTREAM & LIPTON BUNDLE

Easy Enter ✅ simply react to this post and follow the link to enter your details

We have a SodaStream Terra Machine and a set of the new Lipton flavours (lemon and peach) to be won, worth $220.

13/06/2024

Got kids with totally different personalities? Here are some tips to tailoring your parenting approach:
» Tailored Emotional Support: Use storytelling for imaginative children and hands-on activities for kinaesthetic learners.
» Different Learning Environments: Designate specific areas in the house for various activities e.g. a quiet reading nook for introverts and a vibrant play area for extroverts.
» Individualised Routines: Develop routines that align with each child’s natural rhythms.
» Interest-Based Bonding Activities: Spend one-on-one time engaging in activities each child loves.
» Same Amount of Love, Different Types of Love: Ensure each child feels equally loved, but express it in ways that resonate with them. Offer words of affirmation to a child who thrives on verbal praise and physical affection to a child who craves closeness.
» Personalised Problem-Solving: Use logical reasoning with analytical thinkers and emotional understanding with sensitive children.
» Encourage Independent Interests: Enrol children in different extracurricular activities based on their passions.
» Model Adaptable Love and Acceptance: Show that love and respect can adapt to different needs and personalities.

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13/06/2024

8 POPULAR PARTY THEMES
If executing your child's party takes hours, or even not days of your time, we have some good advice... Outsourcing!

Making parties magical is Larmesa Lees’ dream job. We asked her what party themes are hot right now.

12/06/2024

WIN THE BEST PICTURE BOOKS OF THE YEAR

Easy Enter ✅ simply react to this post and follow the link to enter your details

We have one pack to giveaway containing the five finalists up for the Picture Book Award at this year's New Zealand Book Awards for Children and Young Adults.

11/06/2024

VERY BIG FEELINGS
The goal is to share our calm through mindfulness, not join the chaos through shouting

Author and mum of twins, Je T'aime Hayr explains how mindfulness can be helpful during so-called temper tantrums and meltdowns.

10/06/2024

The rising cost of food is hitting Kiwi families hard, with more than two-thirds seeing their food bills soar by $50 to $149. To cope with the increased expenses, a staggering 95% of parents reported cutting back on their grocery spending, and 63% had to change their lifestyle.

To navigate these challenges, families are adopting several strategies to make their grocery dollars stretch further.

10/06/2024

HIDDEN COSTS
It's time for an open, honest and detailed deep dive into your family finances.

Yvonne Walus shares bright ideas to help you get smarter about those pesky hidden costs. This article is part of our Tots To Teens and  Simplicity