Back to School

Back to school is here! Books, uniforms, bags, shoes and so much more… Mumz how are the preparations going?

It takes a lot of preparation at the beginning of the school year. For parents whose children will be joining school for the first time; it is going to be a real challenging period. Begin to talk to your child about school and how much fun it would be. Show pictures and videos of children engaged in activities at school. Take your child to the new premises so that he/she may get acquainted with the environment. But most of all prepare yourself to tackle the morning drop off time and the new routine.

I hope it would be a great start for all Mumz and kiddos.

Sparkles Online School YouTube Channel

We are proud to launch our Sparkles Online School YouTube Channel. Have a look…Learn-Share-Enjoy!

Sparkles Online School

Sparkles Online School

Sparkles Online School

Welcome to Sparkles Online School. We are proud to announce the beginning of our online school.

Sparkles Online School is an online resource created with the aim of supporting teaching and learning at primary school level. Our aim is to empower teachers and students alike. Our videos present concepts that would make learning in core subjects enjoyable.

Videos are available in English and Urdu language. We have covered various concepts in Mathematics, Science and English. Art videos will be added shortly. We shall be adding videos to creative mumz

We hope you will enjoy watching and learning!

What a Teacher! An online resource to empower teaching…

 

Hi everyone, I have set up a new website -What a Teacher! The goal is to create an online resource for teachers. I have started adding pictures of bulletin boards, sensory tubs and hands-on activity ideas. Do check out and give your feedback.

www.whatateacher.wordpress.com 

Videos for Kids

Hi everyone,

I have added more videos to our kid’s videos selection.

Click here to view.

Have fun!

Spread Some Inspiration with Philadelphia Cream Cheese

Story selected and published by Philadephia, here is the link.

http://spreadphiladelphia.com/story.php?id=92

Be Inspired by Faryal Amir
Creative Mumz Founder

“I had a lot of free time and did not know how to use it. I felt there were more women of my ilk who cannot find venues to interact creatively. We organise workshops, coffee evenings, story telling sessions for children, post our queries and seek counsel from other members,” Faryal Amir

When Faryal Amir had her second child, she had to give up her job. Feeling cut off from her usual social circle, she instituted Creative Mumz, a platform for women who would share a skill, information, personal experiences with fellow members who are a mix of single women, mothers, aunties and grandmothers.

The group emerged dynamically online with interesting monthly newsletters and other online competitions. Faryal Amir, with little help from close members organises events, develops the newsletter and updates the website which has more than 500 daily visits.

Her efforts have been recognised by some leading newspapers and television channels. A notable number of women in the UAE are associated with the group and lots from all across the world through the web portal; http://www.creativemumz.com

Kiddie Fashionista’10 @ Dubai Mall

Attended the Book Signing of I KNOW WHO YOU ARE! at Magrudys

I attended the book signing of the novel I KNOW WHO YOU ARE! yesterday at Magrudys, Dubai Festival Center. The authors Mariam and Fatima Masood gave a presentation about the five character skins presented in the book and the storyline. This was followed by a quick quiz and Q&A session. Nice event. Have read the book…a very interesting story.

FOLLOW CREATIVE MUMZ ON TWITTER

Hello everyone,

Creative Mumz is now on twitter. Follow…lets be connected.

Hoping to add value to your day!

Find Creative Mumz on Facebook

Creative Mumz now has an interactive Facebook® Fan page. Facebook users who become a Fan of Creative Mumz can now stay up to date on the latest info and news, along with post photos and videos of themselves that would help others to bring out their creativity.

To become a Fan of Creative Mumz on Facebook, go to Creative Mumz and click on the “Find us on Facebook” icon. (Located in the upper right corner of the Creative Mumz homepage.)

Happy Facebooking!

Toilet Training Resistance

Found this information on the web, very useful.

What is toilet training resistance?

Children who refuse to be toilet trained either wet themselves, soil themselves, or try to hold back their bowel movements (thus becoming constipated). Many of these children also refuse to sit on the toilet or will use the toilet only if a parent brings up the subject and marches them into the bathroom.

Any child who is over 3 years old, healthy, and not toilet trained after several months of trying can be assumed to be resistant to the process rather than undertrained. Consider how capable your child is at delaying a bowel movement (BM) until he or she is off the toilet and has a chance to hide. More practice runs (such as you used in toilet training) will not help. Instead, your child needs full responsibility and some incentives to spark her motivation.

The most common cause of resistance to toilet training is that a child has been reminded or lectured too much. Some children have been forced to sit on the toilet against their will, occasionally for long periods of time. A few have been spanked or punished in other ways for not cooperating. Many parents make these mistakes, especially if they have a strong-willed child. How can I help my child with daytime wetting or soiling? Most children younger than 5 or 6 years of age with soiling (encopresis) or daytime wetting without any other symptoms are simply engaged with you in a power struggle.

These children can be helped with the following suggestions. If your child holds back BMs and becomes constipated, medicines will also be needed.

1. Transfer all responsibility to your child. Your child will decide to use the toilet only after he realizes that he has nothing left to resist. Have one last talk with him about the subject. Tell your child that his body makes “pee” and “poop” every day and it belongs to him. Tell him that his “poop” wants to be in the toilet and his job is to help the “poop” come out. Tell your child you’re sorry you punished him, forced him to sit on the toilet, or reminded him so much. Tell him from now on he doesn’t need any help. Then stop all talk about this subject (“potty talk”). Pretend you’re not worried about this subject. When your child stops hearing conversation about not going, she will eventually decide to go to the bathroom for attention.

2. Stop all reminders about using the toilet. Let your child decide when she needs to go to the bathroom. Don’t remind her to go to the bathroom or ask her if she needs to go. She knows what it feels like when she has to “poop” or “pee” and where the bathroom is. Reminders are a form of pressure, and pressure keeps the power struggle going. Stop all practice runs and never make her sit on the toilet against her will because this always increase resistance. Don’t accompany your child into the bathroom or stand with her by the potty chair unless she asks you to. She needs to gain the feeling of success that comes from doing it her way.

3. Give incentives for using the toilet. Your main job is to find the right incentive. Special incentives, such as favorite sweets or video time, can be invaluable. For using the toilet for BMs, initially err on the side of giving her too much (for example, several food treats each time). Remember that incentives work even better if it is a special treat that your child doesn’t get everyday. If you want a breakthrough, make your child an offer she can’t refuse (such as going somewhere special). In addition, give positive feedback, such as praise and hugs every time your child uses the toilet. On successful days consider taking 20 extra minutes to play a special game with your child or take her to her favorite playground.

4. Give stars for using the toilet. Get a calendar for your child and post it in a conspicuous location. Have her place a star on it every time she uses the toilet. Keep this record of progress until your child has gone 1 month without any accidents.

5. Make the potty chair convenient. Be sure to keep the potty chair in the room your child usually plays in. This gives her a convenient visual reminder about her options whenever she feels the need to go to the bathroom. For urinating, the presence of the chair and the promise of treats will usually bring about a change in behavior. Don’t remind her even if she’s squirming and dancing to hold back the urine.

6. Diapers, Pull-ups, or underwear. Whenever possible, replace pull-ups or diapers with underwear. Help your child pick out some underwear with favorite characters on them. Then remind her “they don’t like poop or pee on them.” This usually precipitates the correct decision on the part of the child. Even if your child wets the underwear, persist with this plan. If your child holds back BMs, allow selective access to diapers or pull-ups for BMs only. Preventing stool-holding is very important.

7. Remind your child to change his clothes if he wets or soils himself. As soon as you notice that your child has wet or messy pants, tell her to clean herself up. The main role you have in this program is to enforce the rule: “people can’t walk around with messy pants.” If your child is wet, she can probably change into dry clothes by herself. If your child is soiled, she will probably need your help with cleanup. If your child refuses to let you change her, ground her in her bedroom until she is ready.

8. Don’t punish or criticize your child for accidents. Respond gently to accidents, and do not allow siblings to tease the child. Pressure will only delay successful training, and it could cause secondary emotional problems. Your child needs you to be her ally.

9. Ask the preschool or day care staff to use the same strategy. Ask your child’s teacher or day care provider to let your child go to the bathroom any time he wants to. Keep an extra set of clean underwear at the school or with the day care provider. When should I call my child’s health care provider? Call during office hours if: • Your child holds back his or her bowel movements or becomes constipated. • Pain or burning occurs when your child urinates. • Your child is afraid to sit on the potty chair. – Your child’s resistance has not improved after 1 month on this program. • The resistance has not stopped completely after 3 months.

http://en.allexperts.com/q/Pediatrics-1429/potty-training-five-year.htm

VIDEOS FOR KIDS

A new page VIDEOS has been added to the Creative Mumz site. Children will enjoy these videos.

CLICK HERE TO VIEW.

HAVE FUN!

SUMMER CAMPS IN ABU DHABI, DUBAI & SHARJAH

Al Nasr Leisureland SUMMER CAMP 2009

British Orchard Nursery Summer Camp

Prisitne Private School Summer Camp

BEACH ROTANA’ KIDS SUMMER CAMP 2009

DUBAI HOLIDAY CAMPS sponsored by Kellogg’s Summer Camp 2009

MY GYM SUMMER CAMP

SHARJAH MUSEUM SUMMER CAMP

Events.Offers.Promotions

In this section I shall be adding information about events, offers and promotions that are on around town. CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS.

• BOOK SIGNING, I KNOW WHO YOU ARE! AT JASHANMAL BOOK STORE AT MALL OF THE EMIRATES FROM 4PM-7PM ON 30TH MAY, 2009
• The 7^th UAE – UNLEASH YOUR DNA SEMINAR, supported by EMIRATES ON 23RD MAY
• OFFERS AT DUBAI OUTLET MALL
• MORE…

Dubai School Inspection Report list: Private schools

Dubai School Inspection Report list: Private schools published in Gulf News

The list of all private schools in Dubai which have been inspected by the KHDA, with rating, and a link to the full report

Name of School Rating Status Curriculum Full Report Jumeirah College Outstanding Private UK Jumeirah College JESS (Jumeirah) Outstanding Private UK JESS JESS (Arabian Ranches) Outstanding Private UK JESS Kings Dubai Outstanding Private UK Kings Dubai Al Ittihad (Al Mamzar Campus) Good Private US Al Ittihad Al Safa Private School Good Private UK Al Safa Private Al Salam Private School Good Private UK Al Salam Al Mizhar American Academy for Girls Good Private US Al Mizhar American American School of Dubai Good Private US AUD Dubai College Good Private UK Dubai College Dubai English Speaking College Good Private UK Dubai English Dubai English Speaking School Good Private UK Dubai English GEMS Jumeirah Primary School Good Private UK GEMS Jumeirah GEMS Wellington Primary School Good Private UK GEMS Wellington Horizon English School Good Private UK Horizon Jebel Ali Primary and Branch School Good Private UK Jebel Ali St Mary’s Catholic High School Good Private UK St. Mary’s Catholic The English College, Dubai Good Private English English College International School of Choueifat, Dubai Good Private UK/US Choueifat Al Khaleej National School Acceptable Private US/MOE Al Khaleej Al Sadiq Islamic English School Acceptable Private UK Al Sadiq Cambridge International School Acceptable Private English Cambridge Dubai British School Acceptable Private UK Dubai British Dubai Gem Private School Acceptable Private UK Dubai Gem Dubai Modern Education School Acceptable Private US/MOE Dubai Modern Emirates International School (Jumeirah) Acceptable Private UK/IB Emirates Jumeirah Emirates International School (Meadows) Acceptable Private IPC/IGCSE/IB Emirates Meadows GEMS Royal Dubai School Acceptable Private UK GEMS Royal New Academy School Acceptable Private US/MOE New Academy Nibras International School Acceptable Private US/MOE Nibras International Philadelphia Private School Acceptable Private US Philadelphia Private Raffles International School West Campus Acceptable Private International Raffles International School of Modern Skills Acceptable Private US Modern Skills The City School International Acceptable Private UK The City The School of Research Science Acceptable Private UK School of Research The Sheffield Private School Acceptable Private UK Sheffield Private The Universal American School Acceptable Private US/IB Universal American The Westminster School Acceptable Private UK Westminster Al Ameen School Unacceptable Private English Al Ameen Arab Unity School Unacceptable Private UK Arab Unity Deans International School Unacceptable Private US Deans International Grammar School Unacceptable Private UK Grammar Star International School – Twar Unacceptable Private UK Star – Twar The Oxford School Unacceptable Private IGCSE/UK The Oxford

All Mums say…

Found these mummy sayings interesting…all mums say these!

• Money does not grow on trees.
• Don’t make that face or it’ll freeze in that position.
• Don’t put that in your mouth; you don’t know where it’s been!
• If you can’t say something nice, don’t say anything at all.
• When you have your own house then you can make the rules!
• What if everyone jumped off a cliff? Would you do it, too?

MORNING TIME, RUSH TIME!!

www.creativemumz.com

Mornings are always busy with everyone rushing to take a shower, get dressed, grab a bite and leave for school/work. We can reduce some morning rush time stress by doing as much as can be done the night before. Have the clothes ironed and laid in a quick pick up spot. Lay out shoes and socks. Bags packed at night and kept near door, just pick up and leave!

 
For breakfast and lunch boxes, decide what can be done the night before and what can be left for the morning. Get sandwiches for kids’ lunch boxes ready at dinner time, packed and kept in the fridge. Set the moring breakfast table the night before with plates, glasses, spoons, bowls and cornflakes packs on the table. Some planning and organizing the night before will surley lessen your morning time stress.

You will surely enjoy your first cup of tea!

THE FRIDAY CLASS by Mariam and Fatima Masood

The Friday Class

http://thefridayclass.wordpress.com/

The Friday Class was a result of many isolated moments we spent as teachers… in school, at home, in malls, parks, waiting lobbies and at the Dubai Creek.
 
As teachers we always feel there is very less time, in class, to tell the children about the many little things they need to remember in order to enjoy life. Since the classes are curriculum driven it becomes difficult to address the day to day challenges, problems and tasks children come across. Not only as teachers, even at home, with our nephews and niece, we realize there are so many things that need adult attention and address.
 
In order to kill the guilt we thought of the concept of a Friday Class which would have all the little but important things we want to tell children aged 7 onwards.
 
It is important to say that Fridays and Saturdays are weekly holidays here in Dubai, no school. That’s why the article was named The Friday Class. At home, when children are missing their teachers, they get an opportunity of absorbing some more knowledge of the world… a short message from very concerned caring teachers…
 
So, for young girls and boys here are some nice things to read and follow in life. Of course also for older people who missed on good teachers and teachings in life!

Minutes invested in goodness help a lifetime.

THE FRIDAY CLASS IS PUBLISHED IN YOUNG TIMES MAGAZINE FORTNIGHTLY.

Mom – Child’s Best Friend!

www.creativemumz.com 

 

There was a time when parents were revered and respected out of fear. Even now parents are respected but more out of love than fear! If fed and nurtured with good values, kids do imbibe the best from you.

 

Today, the generation is different. They need a ‘mother’ until they are dependent and a ‘friend’ after that. Once their dependence period is over they need someone to talk to, someone whom they can trust, someone who does not get offended with little issues, someone they know will stand by them whatever the case. That does not give them the license to demonstrate their ill behaviour and rule the matter though. With a firm hand of help when in distress and as barrier when moving towards danger, Moms can surely be a great support system for children especially girls.

 

Kids from a very early age should be encouraged to talk to parents, atleast mothers. They should be initiated to talk about everyday matters – What happened in the school today? Did you play with your friends? Whom did you play with? Did you enjoy? What did the teacher teach you today? Was it fun? How was the trip to school in the bus? Did you enjoy your breakfast? – Little talks that would get them talking to you. Once this becomes a routine they themselves would talk to you about their matters. Many-a-times have I heard parents complain that their child does not talk what is happening. “He/She does not say anything.” One can not make them speak all of a sudden. It’s a process that takes time and initiation. So get started early. If you have not, better get started now as they say it’s “Better late than never”.

 

Always encourage them whenever they do something good and creative. Be it a class work or homework they did neatly. Be it coloring or something they tried to paint. It can be some rhyme they tried to sing or an effort to help you by bringing a dish from the table. Any good effort from a child is praise-worthy. It’s a reinforcement that even adults like us need. Encouragement really nourishes everyone! This way they will build self-confidence and would make an attempt to get something done. But from the very first do not make them feel that ‘Prize’ is the most important issue than participation when they take part in an event. Teach them to focus and get things done right. The best will win so let them learn to be the best. A healthy competition is what we need not rivalry.

 

Allow them to make mistakes and realize it. It would be a difficult stage to go through but sure enough it would pass. Remember that every mistake is a lesson towards a positive life. Mothers should be by their side so that they don’t get astray.

 

It’s truly something super to be a MOM, lot of responsibilities and commitments attached! All the mothers here would agree that it’s wonderful and worth everything!

 

By Deepa Gopal Sunil

 

Nursery Schools in Dubai

Here is info on nurseries in Dubai. I hope this will be useful to you mumz.

Al Diyafah Nursery Al Qusais PO Box: 24023 Tel: 04 267 1115 Website: www.diyafah.com

Alphabet Street Nursery  PO Box: 75460 Tel: 04 348 5991 Website: www.alphabetstreetnursery.ae

Al Salam Nursery and Private School Al Qusais PO Box: 5251     Tel: 04 267 9594 Website: www.alsalamschool.sch.ae

Apple International School PO Box: 50091 Tel: 04 344 4441/342 0363 Website: www.apple.sch.ae

Baby Land Nursery PO Box: 72299    Tel: 04 348 6874

Bright Morning Nursery & Daycare CentrePO Box: 45428 Dubai Tel: 04 394 6118 Website: http://bmn.all.ae/index.html Umm Suqeim

British Orchard Nursery PO Box: 125045Tel: 04 398 3536 Website: www.britishorchardnursery.com

The Children’s GardenPO Box: 211336 Tel: 04 885 34 84 Green Community Website: www.childrensgarden.ae

Children’s OasisPO Box: 62265  Tel: 04 348 8981 Website: www.childrensoasisnursery.com

Child’s PlayTel: 04-348 0788  Email to chplay@eim.ae

Cocoon NurseryTel: 04-394 9394.

De La Salle Montessori International Nursery & CrechePO Box: 62265 Tel: 04 398 6218

Dubai Gem Nursery PO Box: 989 Dubai Tel: 04 345 3550 Al Wasl, near Iranian Hospital

Dubai Infants SchoolPO Box: 11444 Dubai Tel: 04 337 1463

Emerald City NurseryTel: 04-349 0848  Email to emeraldc@eim.ae.

Fantasy Land Montessori NurseryPO Box 50841 Dubai Tel: 04-348 6301 / 348 6302 Email: info@fantasylandnursery.com Website: www.fantasylandnursery.com

Gulf Montessori NurseryPO Box: 8269 Dubai Tel: 04 282 7046 Website: www.gulfmontessori.com

Happy Home NurseryPO Box: 6526 Dubai Tel: 04 396 1995

Happy Kids NurseryPO Box: 31405 Dubai Tel: 04 273 1333

Hope Montessori Nursery & Day CarePO Box: 43126 Dubai Tel: 04 352 1587

Jebel Ali Village NurseryPO Box: 53951 Dubai Tel: 04 884 5276 Website: www.jebelalinursery.com

Jumeirah International NurseryPO Box: 24857 Dubai Tel: 04 394 5567 Website: www.jinspire.com

Jumeirah International Nursery SchoolPO Box: 24857 Dubai Website: www.jinschools.com

Kids Cottage NurseryPO Box: 900 Tel: 04 394 2145 Website: www.kids-cottage.com

Kids Island NurseryPO Box: 7994 Dubai Tel: 04 394 2578/394 2579 Website: www.kidsislandnursery.com

Kids Palace Nursery04-348 41 63.

Kids Talent center POBox: 3202 Dubai Tel: 04 3370420

The Kings’ Dubai NurseryPO Box: 381 199 Dubai Tel: 04 348 3939 Email: info@kingsdubai.com Website: www.kingsdubai.com

Ladybird NurseryTel: 04-344 1011.

Little Land Nursery & Montessori CentrePO Box: 53619 Dubai Tel: 04 394 4471 Website: www.littleland-montessori.com

Little Princess Day Care & NurseryPO Box: 20424 Dubai Tel: 04 263 4666

Little Star NurseryPO Box: 28596 Dubai Tel: 04 398 2004 Email: chris_maggie@hotmail.com        Little Wings International Nursery Jumeirah 2, Al Wasl Road, Street 2b, Villa 43 Phone no.: 00971 (0) 34 90 553 Fax no.: 00971 (0) 34 90 556 Website: www.lwi-nursery.com E-mail: info@lwi-nursery.com     Little Woods Nursery Tel: 04–394 6155 Fax: 04-3946955 Website: www.littlewoodsnursery.com Location: Street 4C, Safa 2 Area, Dubai

Little WondersPOBox: 214563 Dubai Tel: 04 394 9881 Website: www.littlewonders.ae

Love & Care Nursery PO Box: 55703 DubaiTel: 04 261 2117

Montessori Dubai Nursery PO Box: 2915, Dubai Tel: 04 395 5788 Email: medubai@emirates.net.ae

Mother Care NurseryPO Box: 23318, Dubai Tel: 04 349 6955 Website: www.motherforcare.com

The New Dubai Nursery PO Box: 7552 Dubai Tel: 04 398 4900

The New Nursery SchoolTel: 04-344 083

Rainbow Nursery PO Box: 11936 Dubai Tel: 04 342 9599

Safa NurseryPO Box: 3147 Dubai Tel: 04 344 3878 Fax: 04 344 3870

Seashells NurseryTel: 04-3413404Website: www.seashellsnursery.com

Small Steps NurseryPO Box: 72590 Dubai Tel: 04 288 3347

Small World NurseriesPO Box: 6446 DubaiTel: 04 348 0788 Website: www.smallworldnurserydubai.com

Smart Children’s NurseryPO Box: 30939 Dubai Tel: 04 398 0074

Super Kids NurseryP.O. Box 34153 – Dubai Tel: 04-288 1949 E-mail: superkidsnursery@yahoo.com website: www.superkidzee.com and www.superkidznursery.com

Tender Love and Care Nursery  PO Box: 500570 Dubai Tel: 04 367 1636 Website: www.tenderloveandcare.com

The City Nursery Tel: 04 289 9722 Website: www.thecitynurseryuae.com

The Primary NurseryPO Box: 1563 Dubai Tel: 04 269 5828

The Tiny Home Montessori NurseryPO Box: 46768 Dubai Tel: 04 349 3201

Wisdom International Nursery & DaycareTel: 04 344 6371 Fax: 04-344 6372 PO Box: 26993 Dubai

World NurseryPOBox: 56732 Tel: 04 261 3025 Email: worldnur@emirates.net.ae

Yellow Brick Road NurseryPO Box: 34239 Dubai Tel: 04 282 8290 Website: www.yellowbrickroad.ws

NEW YEAR RESOLUTIONS

Happy new year to all you mumz out there. Its great to jot down new year resolutions but the tough job is to stick to them. Have you made any new resolutions? I think we all do and I suppose we mums are real good list makers!

Here are some resolutions I think all mothers would like to stick to,

• I will plan and organize my kitchen better, with all food stuff labelled.
• I will plan my week’s menu in advance so I don’t have to bother to do that thinking everyday.
• I will give more quality time to my kids, play puzzles, paint with them, play board games, hangman, draw, fly kites, read story books, hop, skip, run and make faces with them! Oh! I love being mom!
• I will de-clutter corners of my house.
• I will try some money saving tips my friend told me about!
• I will work really hard this year to lose those extra kilos. (This one is on everyone’s list 😉 )
• I will try to give some quality time to myself daily, that I always keep skipping because of my tight schedule. I will not miss my morning walk, or my morning coffee with a friend, I will not ignore my nails, hair or skin just because I could not find that 10 minutes I need to uplift my unkempt look. I will find those 10 minutes daily this year.
• I will read good books, relax and enjoy life making an effort to forget the pain and sorrow I went through in my continuning journey – life!
• I will organize things better by keeping a handy planner, listing important dates, my kid’s school events and most important, keep track of “things to do” by making my “TO DO LIST”.

I am sure you all will have much more to add to this list, do send in your resolutions in the comments section and share them with us.

STOCK THAT FIRST AID KIT

www.creativemumz.com  

Little children always get into scrapes and no one knows this better than their mother.

Most scrapes are minor and only need home treatment and lots of kisses on the bad ‘boo-boo’. Its important to attend to such incidents fast without the hassle of rummaging through drawers and rooms for a bandage here or an ointment there. An updated first aid kit that has all the essentials is a must-have for any efficient mom. Some pharmaceutical stores will sell pre-packaged first aid kits but you can put together your own with these simple tips. Store these in an unused lunch box out of reach of children. Keeping an accessible, portable first aid kit also makes it easier to carry along on picnics and outdoor trips when bruises and cuts are most likely to happen.

You’ll need:

* Acetaminophen and/or
* Ibuprofen (with a chart for weight-appropriate doses
  and a dosage spoon)
* Band-aids (assorted shapes and sizes for knuckles,
   knees and fingertips)
* Antiseptic wipes
* Antibiotic ointment
* Burn ointment
* Sterile roll gauze (in 3 and 4 inch sizes)
* First aid tape
* Bandage scissors
* Thermometer
* Tweezers and a magnifying glass
* A first aid guidebook

Other standard medicine-chest supplies include sunscreen (minimum SPF 15) and an anti-itch cream for rashes during summer. Its also a good idea to keep telephone numbers of the closest children’s hospital’s emergency services in the first aid kit, along your child’s pediatrician’s name and number, and prescriptions for any medication your child is taking.

Like charity and hygiene, safety also begins at home, and now you can rest assured that you’re all set to banish that boo-boo.

Article contributed by our newest active member, Nihal Taher.

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Playscapes Wall Murals- Decorate your Kids Rooms, Ideal for Nursery

 Playscapes Wall Murals are such an exciting concept in kids rooms decorating and nursery decor! We handcraft and hand paint all the childrens’ wall art and kids’ room accessories, add Velcro pads to the back and then package our wall mural kits and freight them worldwide direct to your door!

   

All you do is paint the wall in your chosen colour, plan your design then simply peel away the backing tape on the murals and adhere. In a couple of hours you will have the most gorgeous room that you did yourself! Another bonus is it is also interactive. Children are encouraged to pick the apples off the tree, fly the bees around and place them back. This improves their hand-eye coordination and fine dexterity. Another bonus is of course if you find you have to relocate, simply take your Playscapes kids’ murals ( or wall art) with you and remove the Velcro without marking the walls!

When ordering at Playscapes, please mention that you heard about Playscapes from Creative Mumz.

Website: http://www.playscapes.com.au/

Email: office@playscapes.com.au       

             

Back To School

www.creativemumz.com

It is time to begin school very soon. Back to school means preparation for both, mums and kids. Mothers need to sort out things, organize and plan ahead of time to pack interesting lunch boxes, buy books and uniforms, find new ideas to get the kids to finish homework and much more.

The key is organizing. Here are some ideas to prepare beforehand;

1. Prepare lunch bag cards for the week. You can make cards to go on the fridge with what has to be packed for each day of the week. This will save time and reduce daily stress of thinking what to prepare.
2. Kids have a fluctuating routine during summer break. Start put them to bed earlier at least one week before school starts. This will help them to get into school routine easily.
3. Prepare lists for what has to be sent to school esp. on the first day, like books, school supplies, lunch bag, any special item that the school had requested for. A separate list should be prepared for each child keeping in mind that a primary school student will have to carry different things as compared to your little one who is just beginning school.
4. Find new and interesting ideas to motivate children to finish homework without a fuss. Surf the net and read some articles that will help and prepare you to deal with homework issues.
5. Mark important school events and meetings on a calendar to avoid missing any special days.
6. Reduce morning stress by preparing clothes and lunch bags at night. Set plates, spoons, cups, etc. for breakfast at night to avoid rush in the morning.

 Planning ahead will make going back to school a pleasant experience!

 

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Creative Mumz Kitchen – Send in your recipes..

www.kitchen.creativemumz.com   

Welcome to the Creative Mumz Kitchen!

This is it Mumz, your very own kitchen!

Creative Mumz Kitchen aims to be a one stop ‘what to cook’ guide. You can check out interesting mouth watering dishes and also post your favourite recipes at Creative Mumz Kitchen.

Post a recipe: If you cook great food and would be happy to share those yummy recipes with us, please send them to kitchen.creativemumz@gmail.com (Font: Times New Roman, Size: 10)

Send in your tips: You can also send in your cooking tips and tricks to kitchen.creativemumz@gmail.com

You can send in your recipes in the following categories:

Non Veg

Vegetarian

Salads

Soups

Baby Food

Desserts

So moms pen down all those yummy recipes and send them in…for the love of sharing!!

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Jokes

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Kids Really Think Quickly!!  

TEACHER : Maria, go to the map and find
North America .

MARIA : Here it is!

TEACHER : Correct. Now class, who discovered
America ?

CLASS : Maria!

____________ _________ _________ _________ _________ _________ __

TEACHER : Why are you late, Frank?

FRANK : Because of the sign.

TEACHER : What sign?

FRANK : The one that says, “School Ahead, Go Slow.”

____________ _________ _________ _________ _________ _________ __

TEACHER: John, why are you doing your math multiplication on the floor?

JOHN : You told me to do it without using tables!

____________ _________ _________ _________ _________ _________ __

TEACHER : Glenn, how do you spell “crocodile?”

GLENN : K-R-O-K-O-D- A-I-L”

TEACHER : No, that’s wrong

GLENN : Maybe it s wrong, but you asked me how I spell it!

____________ _________ _________ _________ _________ _________ __

TEACHER : Donald, what is the chemical formula for water?

DONALD : H I J K L M N O!!

TEACHER : What are you talking about?

DONALD : Yesterday you said it’s H to O!

____________ _________ _________ _________ _________ _________ __

TEACHER : Winnie, name one important thing we have today that we didn’t have ten years ago.

WINNIE : Me!

____________ _________ _________ _________ _________ _________ __

TEACHER : Goss, why do you always get so dirty?

GOSS : Well, I’m a lot closer to the ground than you are.

____________ _________ _________ _________ _________ _________ __

TEACHER : Millie, give me a sentence starting with “I.”

MILLIE : I is…

TEACHER : No, Millie….. Always say, “I am.”

MILLIE : All right… “I am the ninth letter of the alphabet.”

____________ _________ _________ _________ _________ _________ __

TEACHER : Can anybody give an example of COINCIDENCE?

TINO : Sir, my Mother and Father got married on the same day, same time.”

____________ _________ _________ _________ _________ _________ __

TEACHER : George Washington not only chopped down his father’s cherry tree, but also admitted doing it. Now, Louie, do you know why his father didn’t punish him?”

LOUIS : Because George still had the axe in his hand.

____________ _________ _________ _________ _________ _________ __

TEACHER : Now, Simon, tell me frankly, do you say prayers before eating?

SIMON : No sir, I don’t have to, my Mom is a good cook.

____________ _________ _________ _________ _________ _________ __

TEACHER :
Clyde , your composition on “My Dog” is exactly the same as your brother’s. Did you copy his?

CLYDE : No, teacher, it’s the same dog!!

____________ _________ _________ _________ _________ _________ _

TEACHER : Harold, what do you call a person who keeps on talking when people are no longer interested?

HAROLD : A teacher

WHAT TEACHERS MAKE?

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WHAT TEACHERS MAKE…….

The dinner guests were sitting around the table discussing life.

One man, a CEO, decided to explain the problem with education. He argued,
“What’s a kid going to learn from someone who decided his best option in
life was to become a teacher?” He reminded the other dinner guests what
they say about teachers: “Those who can, do. Those who can’t, teach.”

To stress his point he said to another guest; “You’re a teacher, Bonnie.
Be honest. What do you make?”

Bonnie, who had a reputation for honesty and frankness replied, “You
want to know what I make? (She paused for a second, and then began…)

“Well lets see, for starters, I make kids work harder than they ever thought
they could. I make a C+ feel like the Congressional Medal of Honour.

I make kids sit through 40 minutes of class time when their parents
can’t make them sit for 5 without an I Pod, Game Cube or movie rental…

(She paused again then went on)

I make kids wonder.

I make them question.

I make them criticize.

I make them apologize and mean it.

I make them have respect and take responsibility for their actions.

I teach them to write and then I make them write.

I make them read, read, read.

I make them show all their work in math.

I make my students from other countries learn everything they need to know
in English while preserving their unique cultural identity.

I make my classroom a place where all my students feel safe.

Finally, I make them understand that if they use the gifts they were
given, work hard, and follow their hearts, they can succeed in life.

(Bonnie paused one last time and then continued.)
“Then, when people try to judge me by what I make, I can hold my head up
high and pay no attention because they are ignorant… Do you want to
know what I make?

I MAKE A DIFFERENCE.
What do you make?”

THIS IS WORTH SENDING TO EVERY TEACHER YOU KNOW.
THERE IS MUCH TRUTH IN THIS STATEMENT:

“Teachers make every other profession”.

This was worth sharing!

Catch us with what’s new, log on to www.creativemumz.com

CHILDREN LEARN WHAT THEY LIVE

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If a child lives with Criticism, He learns to Condemn.
If a child lives with Hostility, He learns to Fight.
If a child lives with Ridicule, He learns to be Shy.
If a child lives with Encouragement, He learns Confidence.
If a child lives with Shame, He learns to feel Guilty.
If a child lives with Tolerance, He learns to be Patient.
If a child lives with Praise, He learns to Appreciate.
If a child lives with Security, He learns to have Faith.
If a child lives with Approval, He learns to Like Himself.
If a child lives with Acceptance and Friendship, He learns to Find Love in the World.

 

Very true! Found these words,wanted to share with you all.

Nursery Schools in Sharjah

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Dear Mums….. It is a great challenge to find the right nursery school for your child. The first nursery school environment that we choose for our kids is very important since it is the first step that they take to explore the outside world without us and this really sets the tune for learning for the years to come. Here are some options in Sharjah.

(Also check out our group’s activities, upcoming events, story time and play sessions for kids and mums, Log on to www.creativemumz.com or write to creativemumz@gmail.com.

ABC NURSERY

P.O.Box: 15231 Sharjah
06-566 1197
Ramla Area

AL AHLIA NURSERY

Sharjah, 06-5371157

AL HANAN PVT NURSERY

Po Box 23362, Sharjah

06-5523896

AL KHALEEJ NURSERY

Po Box 40811, Sharjah

06-5271524

AL KHAN NURSERY

Po Box 4615, Sharjah

Al Gubaibah, near Gold Centre

06-5663831

AL NASER ENGLISH NURSERY

P.O.Box: 2315 Sharjah
06-524 4454
Green Belt Park

AL ZAHRA NURSERY

P.O.Box: 32928 Sharjah
06-528 3010

BABY GARDEN ENGLISH NURSERY

P.O.Box: 2388 Sharjah
06 563 7568
Maisloon Area

BALLOON NURSERY

Website: www.balloonnursery.com
P.O.Box: 64975 Sharjah
06-544 0558
Rifaa Area

BAIBAN BARAK NURSERY

Po Box 5201, Sharjah

06-5248100

BLUEBELLS NURSERY

Website: www.bluebells-nursery.com
P.O.Box: 39390 Sharjah
06-528 1852
Al Khan area

BIG BEN ENGLISH NURSERY

Po Box 7049 , Sharjah

06-5660990

CHILD CLUB NURSERY

Po Box 3335, Sharjah

06-5220045

DELTA NURSERY

Age Group: 2 – 3 Years
POBox: 20121 Sharjah
06-563 6847
Maisloon

DREAMLAND NURSERY

Website: www.dreamlandnursery.com

06-566 1133

EMIRATES BUDS NURSERY

P.O.Box: 44067 Sharjah
06 522 5635

EMIRATES MONTESSORI, HOUSE OF CHILDREN

Villa was previously used by the ‘New Filipino English School’
Ramla West
06-5671017

www.emirates-montessori.com

ENGLISH ROSE BRITISH NURSERY

British Foundation Stage Curriculum
Near Sharjah Ladies Club
PO Box: 45048
06-5228477

GREENBELT NURSERY

Website: www.wesgreen.net

P.O.Box: 40658 Sharjah
06 534 6333
Off University, Airport Road 

GULF ROAD NURSERY

Po Box 4652, Sharjah

06-5664952

HAPPY HOME ENGLISH NURSERY

P.OBox: 5395 Sharjah
06- 563 1772
Maisloon

HAPPY KIDS NURSERY

Website: www.happykidsnursery.com

Post Box No.:34295
Sharjah

06-5389300

KIDS KINGDOM NURSERY

Website: www.kidskingdom.ae

P.O.Box: 23773 Sharjah
06-522 6710
Near Quran Roundabout

KIDS ISLAND NURSERY SHARJAH

Email: kidsislandnursery@hotmail.com

Timing: Sun- Thur : 8:00am-12:30pm,8:00am-3:00pm, 8:00am-5:30pm

LITTLE ANGEL BRITISH NURSERY

Website: www.littleangelbritishnursery.com
P.O.Box: 7049 Sharjah
0- 566 0990

LITTLE FEET NURSERY

Tel: 5280787
Fax:5280766
P.O.B-6358
Sharjah

Website:  http://littlefeetnursery.net/default.swf

Blog: http://littlefeetnursery.blogspot.com/

LITTLE SCHOLARS NURSERY

P.O.Box: 28673 Sharjah
06-522 4795
Al Ghafia

LOLLIPOP NURSERY

Website: www.lollipopnursery.com
P.O.Box: 66733 Sharjah
06 5247710
Sharjah to Ajman Beach Road

PLAYDAYS BRITISH NURSERY

Near Kuwaiti Hospital

Contact: 06- 5222863, 06-5222544
050-2169857

SHARJAH KINDERCARE NURSERY

Post Box No.:34295
Sharjah, U.A.E.

06-5240911

SPECIAL WORLD NURSERY

POBox: 30996 Sharjah
06- 5247767

TENDER STEPS NURSERY

P.O.Box: 68608 Sharjah
06-5663051

THE BRITISH ISLAMIC NURSERY
(Near the new Maroor Dept.)
Al Ramaquia
Sharjah, UAE
Telephone: 06-548-7522
Fax: 06-548-7523

YAMAMA NURSERY

P.O.Box: Sharjah
06-5225767

Nutrition For Toddlers/Children

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Mums, its best that we give our kids snacks that are high in nutrition. Here are some ideas for snacks for your little ones. Even older kids can be given nutritious foods between meals to promote health and cut down on extra calories gained by consuming sugary high fat snacks.  Snacks for Toddlers The best snacks are mini meals, not meal wreckers, so start small and give your child just enough to hold him until the next meal. Of course, this does not always work out perfectly with one- and two-year-olds, since their appetites are erratic. It’s OK if your child ends up eating a bigger snack as long as it’s healthy. Fruit juice Natural cheese such as cheddar. Milk (full-fat for up to two years old) Yogurt (full-fat for up to two years old) Hard-cooked eggs Cottage cheese (full-fat for up to two years old) Tuna Whole grain breads and crackers Fruit (with the exception of whole grapes) Weetabix with milk  Fresh fruit blended with milk Pudding made with full-fat milk Dry cereal or a small bowl of cereal with milk Vegetable juices Well-cooked vegetables such as a sliced, peeled sweet potato Tortillas Creative Mumz is a group of creative ladies in Dubai and Sharjah. To join us please write to creativemumz.com or log on to www.creativemumz.com

20 Ideas for Kids Birthday Party Favors

If you are planning your kid’s birthday party, here are fun ideas for party favors… The children will love these return gifts!

1.Stuffed animals

2.Finger puppets

3.Puzzles

4.Pencil toppers according to birthday theme

5.Stickers according to birthday theme

6.Masks

7.Glow in the dark jewelery

8.Glow in the dark stars for decoration

9.Bookmarks

10.Key chains

11.Mini photo frames

12.Candy

13.Yoyo

14.Craft kits

15.Themed hats

16.Themed T-shirts

17.Mini water guns

18.Flutes and whistles

19.Fridge magnets

20.Balloons

 

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20 Ideas for Kids Birthday Party Favors

 www.creativemumz.com

If you are planning your kid’s birthday party, here are fun ideas for party favors… The children will love these return gifts!

1.Stuffed animals

2.Finger puppets

3.Puzzles

4.Pencil toppers according to birthday theme

5.Stickers according to birthday theme

6.Masks

7.Glow in the dark jewelery

8.Glow in the dark stars for decoration

9.Bookmarks

10.Key chains

11.Mini photo frames

12.Candy

13.Yoyo

14.Craft kits

15.Themed hats

16.Themed T-shirts

17.Mini water guns

18.Flutes and whistles

19.Fridge magnets

20.Balloons

 

Join our newsletter for ideas, tips, articles, updates on the Creative Mumz group meet up in Dubai and Sharjah. Please log on to www.creativemumz.com , creativemumz@gmail.com

Check out our writer’s club www.writers.creativemumz.com

Mums in Dubai and Sharjah-Shopping, Kids Play Areas and Coffee..

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Life for mums in the United Arab Emirates is great. I have been here since 1995 and have seen it grow into a stronger economy and a society that provides opportunities to all, provided we seek to work hard and hunt for new doors to success. And its a shopper’s paradise. Mothers have many stores to choose from to buy stuff for their babies and kids. Baby items, toys, clothes, accessories, excellent stuff and innovative mommy help gadgets are also available. You can check out The Baby Shop, Early Learning Centre, Monalisa, Toys’r’Us, Good Baby, Mothercare, Baby Land and many more.

There are many play areas where the kids have fun and at the same time develop their gross motor skills, coordination and balancing skills. Mums can relax with a cup of coffee, chat and watch their little ones having a blast!

Check out our mother’s group activities in Dubai and Sharjah. www.creativemumz.com Sign up for our free monthly newsletter for free for updates on the Creative Mumz meetings, activities, presentations, workshops, art and craft demonstrations, playgroup, coffee mornings, tips and articles.

Sayings-Mums, Dads and Children

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• All mothers hope that their daughters will find a better husband than she did, and are convinced that their sons will never find as good a wife as their fathers did. 
• We spent the first twelve months of our children’s lives teaching them to walk and talk, and the next twelve telling them to sit down and shut up. 
• Children are incredibly good imitators.No matter how hard you try to teach them good manners, they always behave exactly like their parents.
• Children fill the home with peace when they sleep.
• Precocious children can be a pain. childish adults are worse.
• Only after seeing how your grandchildren turn out can you see if you brought up your own children well.
• Before I got married, I had six theories about bring up children. Now I have six children and no theories.
• Children seldom misquote you. Infact, they usually repeat word for word what you shouldn’t have said.
• How is it that little children are so intelligent and men so stupid. It must be education that does it?

I found these interesting sayings and thought of sharing them with you all.

www.writers.creativemumz.com

Creative Mumz @ the Used Book Festival, Sharjah

Creative Mumz is participating in the

Used Book Festival organized by

Sharjah City for Humanitarian Services,

at Qanat Al Qasba, Sharjah

29th-31st of March 2007 (Thursday – Saturday)

from 10am – 10pm.

We are collecting used books for the event. The books will be sold at our tent at Qanat Al Qasba and , sale proceeds of the same will be donated to benefit special needs children. Please make a contribution by collecting used unwanted books (non-school books), you can ask your friends as well since this is for a good cause. Please support the event, your contribution is highly appriciated. All kinds of books, any language can be donated.

Kindly write to me if you would like to donate books so I can tell you where to deliver them (Dubai and Sharjah). I shall apprecite if the donation can be made by the 25th of March.

You are also invited to attend the festival with your family and friends and have a look at all the books there. Many schools, universities and organizations are participating  in the event. Since Qanat Al Qasba is a great family outing spot, I am sure we all will have a great time while supporting a good cause.

Thanks a lot. Hoping to get a great response from all of you.

Best regards,

Faryal Amir
Coordinator Creative Mumz
www.creativemumz.com
www.creativemumz.wordpress.com
creativemumz@gmail.com

Dos and Don’ts of Answering Children’s Questions

Dos and Don’ts of Answering Children’s Questions Dos:· Always pay attention to your children’s questions and listen carefully when they ask you something. Even if you are in the middle of something really important, divert full attention to your child. Value your child’s curiosity.

• Be honest. You are your child’s guide and whatever you say has a deep impact on your child’s thoughts and perception of things. Give accurate information.
• Provide information in simple, concrete and concise sentences.
• Your language should be comprehendible, keeping in mind the child’s age and level of understanding.
• Check if the child has understood by having him/her repeat the answer in his/her own words. If it comes back and you can make sense of it, the message has been received!
• There aren’t always answers. It’s alright to say, ‘I don’t know, but that was a good question.’
• If it’s a painful, sensitive or emotional subject, it’s important to tell why.
• Your child has approached you with a question and is ready to receive information. Grab this opportunity to convey good morals and values, if appropriate, since the child is ready to absorb what you are about to say.
• Be prepared to answer more questions once they get answers to their first ones.

Don’ts:· Never discourage you kid from asking questions. It may be the last time he/she came to you to request information.· Avoid long and confusing sentences. · Never provide false or misleading information.· Never try to avoid further conversation and questions by saying, ‘No more questions.’ “Why?” “Because I said so.” Clear the child’s doubts till he/she is satisfied.· Do not avoid questions on sensitive issues. Children know when we are trying to get away from answering difficult ones. They may then try to find other sources to get information and that may sometimes have a negative influence on them.· Even if you are getting irritable with repeated questions, never show it your child. Find out more about our groups activities, up coming meet up in Dubai, log on to www.creativemumz.com

Read the Feature on Home Office Women

www.creativemumz.com

Creative Mumz has been featured on the Home Office Women  website.

To read the feature please click here.

Regards,

Faryal

Newsletter for mommys

Free monthly newsletter…a good way to keep track of what’s happening at Creative Mumz. Visit our website www.creativemumz.com  to sign up for latest updates on our group’s activities. We send out tips, recipes, updates of our events and more. You can contribute by sending in tips and recipes or other interesting short articles that would interest mothers.

Check out our Writers Club to post your original stories for children and articles. www.writers.creativemumz.com

‘Must Haves’ in mommy’s hand bag

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Mommy hand bags are instant problem solvers. In times of need or emergency, we happen to find almost everything required to fix the situation. Therefore, mommy hand bags must be ORGANIZED. I feel the following are must haves for a mommy’s hand bag.

1. Tissues

2. Individually packed wipes (antibacterial will be an advantage)

3. Safety pins

4. Panadol tablets

5. Small scotch tape

6. Band aid strips (3-4)

7. Little snacks for the little ones

8. Pen and Post-it (Special lists for shopping)

9. Small toys to keep little ones busy (Small cars, balls, rattle)

10. List of important contacts incase a mobile is not carried

11. Money and enough change

12. Telephone card in case mobile is not carried

13. Medical cards for all family members

14. Membership and kids entertainment centre cards.

15. Driving License 

www.writers.creativemumz.com

25 Ways To Say ‘Very Good’

Check out the article, “25 Ways To Say Very Good”  on the Creative Mumz Writers Club site.

www.writers.creativemumz.com

You can contribute by sending in your articles and stories for kids to writers.creativemumz@gmail.com

The First Story

I have penned down the very first story that my mother had told me when I was five years old. We lived in Muscat at that time. Its simplicity and innocence makes it lovable. And the message in it is what all mommys want their kids to get! Read the story on this link. www.writers.creativemumz.com on the stories page.

You may send in your original articles and stories (Short ones please) to writers.creativemumz@gmail.com along with your name, occupation and country, to be published on this new website Creative Mumz Writers Club. Kids can send in their original poems with their name and age.

Creative Mumz  www.creativemumz.com

Anger Management-Over Criticism by Parents

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At Creative Mumz we believe in nurturing the parent-child bond. Although all parents including me claim and really do love their kids more than anything, but at times our love falls prey to our own frustrations and anger. We might loose control in difficult situations but need to educate ourselves to keep our cool, be more understanding and reasonable, esp. when dealing with kids. 

The following article is very thought provoking, so I felt like sharing it with all of you.

The most popular emotional wrecking tool with parents is over-criticism.
The slogan of the over-critical parent is “I’ll get that kid to shape up even if it kills him! After all, its for his/her OWN good! They will thank me some day!”

The really dedicated over-critical parent rides the kid’s back from the moment his feet touch the floor in the morning until he passes out at night! They become angry to the point of rage (or violence) whenever their kid “fails” to live up to their expectations. They resort to all kinds of ways and means to punish and “humiliate” the kid to live up to their unrealistic expectations and standards. The apparent aim of this kind of misguided parent(s) is to build the child up by tearing them down! The end result of course is just that, a torn down, broken hearted and bitter(angry) kid!

The child (victim) of the over-critical parent’s “good intentions” soon starts to feel that he or she just can’t do anything right! Whenever he or she falls short of perfection, they are made to feel they are a total screw up. And he now begins to feel that, since he or she has failed to live up to their parent’s impossibly high standards and expectations, he doesn’t therefore deserves their love and respect. A deep and dark feeling of “self-contempt” (anger at self) and worthlessness overwhelms him to the point of self-destructive behavior. Kids resent (are angry about) being “put down” and insulted all the time ESPECIALLY by their OWN parents! They rebel against it, and parents then wonder “whats gotten into him ?”

Since he has been made to feel he’s a “loser” by HIS OWN PARENT(S), he will now dramatize (act out) this conviction for the rest of his life.

Check out our website for information about our group for mums in Dubai and Sharjah. www.creativemumz.com

Before I was a Mom!

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This is an article that Shagufta, my friend and member of Creative Mumz has sent to be added to the Creative Mumz newsletter. I thought I could post it here instead for all of you to read.

“Before I was a Mom, I ate hot meals.  I would sit at the table without
having to get up for extra napkins, ketchup, or to pick up the spoon that
was hurdled across the room.  I never had to say, Clean your plate or no
dessert! I was able to talk on the phone for hours at a time without interruptions.Before I was a Mom, I slept as late as I wanted and never worried about
what time I got into bed. My house was always clean.  There were never dishes in the sink or crumbs left on the table.  I never tripped over toys or made up my own games or a lullaby to sooth a crying baby.

Before I was a Mom, I didn’t worry whether my plants were poisonous, if the
coffee table had sharp corners or if the electrical sockets were exposed. I had complete control of my mind, my thoughts, my body
and all my feelings and emotions.

Before I was a Mom, I never held down a screaming child so that doctors
could do tests or give shots. I never thought about immunizations or
learned how to read a thermometer.  I never looked into teary eyes and
cried with compassion.  I never got gloriously happy over a simple grin. I never felt my heart break into a million pieces when I couldn’t stop the
hurt.  I never knew that something so small could affect my life so much.
I never knew that I could love someone so unconditionally.

Before I was a Mom, I never held a sleeping baby just because I didn’t want
to put it down or stayed up late at night just to watch it sleep so
peacefully. I didn’t know the feeling of having my heart outside my
body.  I didn’t know how special it could feel to feed a hungry baby.  
Before I was a Mom, I had never gotten out of bed in the middle of the
night to make sure that everyone was covered with blankets and had their
teddy bear & just in case.

Before I was a Mom, I didn’t know I was capable of feeling so much.  I had
never known the warmth, the joy, the love, the heartache or the
satisfaction that being a Mom can bring.  I never knew just how much I
would love being a mom. I never fully understood my own mother’s joys and
sorrows.  I didn’t appreciate everything she did for me or really thank her
enough for the wisdom she shared.   Before I was a mom I never loved my
mother the same way I do now.

My life has changed & there is no doubt about it, but there isn’t anything
I would be willing to do or any gift I’d be willing to receive to go back
to the days of Before I was a Mom.”

A Goal a Day!

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Accomplish a goal a day!  We usually are working hard everyday to accopmplish our short as well as long term goals that may be personal, family or work related. There may be time involved before you accomplish these, thus keeping you waiting to get a sense of accomplishment. Accomplishment acts as a catalyst to promote one’s self esteme, self confidence and moral.

Therefore apart from these goals, I believe in setting simple daily goals as well. Something special, something that will give me a sense of accomplishment and satisfaction. Something I like doing. Thus charging my energies. Try setting goals that can be fun or creativity oriented, so that you feel happy and relaxed each day. Plan a day ahead about what you would like to do tomorrow. Perhaps brainstorm at night before sleeping. Examples could be, setting out 30 minutes to complete an art project, writing a short article or incident, drawing, acquiring a new skill, reading short stories, organizing your paper work, arranging your stuff at home, walk with a friend, searching the net for articles of interest, writing down your ideas in a note pad and reading all at the end of the month, learning 10 new words and their meanings using a dictionary, rearranging your room or setting, read a story to a child in the house, and other things that you like doing and can be completed on the same day in a short time.

Creative Mumz (www.creativemumz.com) encourages all mothers to set daily goals as well, assign special time to attain simple, short and  satisfying goals that would make them feel happy and relaxed.

Magic Potion

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My elder son started school when he was three and within the first month of his nursery school he started getting sick. He used to get throat infections, coughs, blocked nose, wheezing and high fever. This continued and our visits to doctors increased. He used to end up getting an antibiotic doze every month on average. We saw many doctors, the child had many blood tests and lung x-rays to check for mucus. His tonsils and adinoids got enlarged, had pus in the tonsils and the child snored at night. One ENT specialist suggested tonsil operation at the age of 3.5 years. We were all very worried since getting down with high fever and pus in the throat became a regular feature. We had tried all medicines, tonics and herbals.

Then by God’s grace, one of my friend who is from India told me about SEPTILIN.  This is a product by Himalaya Herbals which enhances the bodies immunity and helps in cases of tonsils, sinus and similar issues. Mashallah my son has been having this mdicine since 1 year and with Allah’s grace he is keeping well. I give him regularly as a tonic and esp. when he starts to get a cold. I would suggest all mothers to try it with kids even elders can have it and it should inshallah prove to be the magic potion for you. But remember it is God who is the healer and not the medicine! 

Since we benefited from this medicine, I wanted to share this with all of you. You can perhaps search about it on the net to buy it online.

Check out our group’s website www.creativemumz.com for info on our activites.

The truth about truth!

www.creativemumz.com

The truth about truth is, “practicing it might sometimes cause you the most harm.” Many situations may arise in life when we can get way with false statements, facts and expressions. And this is what people at times. Because saying the right thin and accepting the true fact can get you into trouble. The question is, “are we ready to practice saying and accepting truth?” (Truth about the world, life, people and most important about us!)

We may always preach to be truthful, but how truthful are we?  Infact, to listen to the right thing, the true story, the right facts and accepting it, is the most difficult thing to do for many. Because we are not trained to do so, even if we are we are not strong enough to accept it!

And I think this is where parents, most importantly the mother comes into the picture. We as parents need to enable the next generation to say and accept the truth, no matter how bitter it may be. There is a constant need to educate and train our kids to develop inner strength to face facts rather than hiding them or moulding them to fit in or win situations.

And to do this, we need to be role models first. Here we can follow the saying, “practice what you preach.” Because truth is what will eventually prevail!!

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Happy Mommy, Happy Family

www.creativemumz.com A happy mother makes a happy family. It is very vital that the mother of the house is happy, at peace mentally and smiling. Work around the house, crying babies, fighting sibblings, dirty laundry, stinking nappies, burnt toast and juice spilt on the new carpet can really put the home minister off! All this daily stress needs to be battled by the mother. It is then up to all others in the family to give her, if not many, atleast a couple of reasons to smile. A little ‘thank you’ note or ‘mommy you are the best’, getting a rose at the end of a tiring day, a big hug and continuous reassurance that she is respected for all her effort, is all that it takes to make a mother happy. It simple but it needs to be done.

So to all of you out there, send a little ‘love you mom’ note to the person who worked so hard to make you capable of what you are doing now!

Check out our group for mothers, log on to www.creativemumz.com