Category: social
The Cambridge International School Family Fiesta 2011, Dubai
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
Exclusive Launch & Book Signing Event of the novel, I Know Who You Are! at Karachi International Book Fair 2009
Liberty Books presents the
Exclusive Launch & Book Signing Event of the novel,
I Know Who You Are! by Pakistani twin authors, Mariam and Fatima Masood,
during the Karachi International Book Fair 2009.
Be at the Karachi Expo Center, Activity Area, Hall 1
on Sunday, 13th December 2009 between 1:00 -1:45 pm in the afternoon.
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!
BARNEY™ AT MOTHER BABY & CHILD SHOW
BARNEY™ AT MOTHER BABY & CHILD SHOW
Popular children’s character to perform live at Mother, Baby & Child Show
with Messages of Personal Value, Growth and Love
The Mother Baby and Child Show 2009, will play host to a very special visitor in December, the lovable prehistoric character ‘Barney’ will be performing live at the MBC event which takes place at the DICEC- Dubai World Trade Centre 4th-6th December.
Shannon Norris, Exhibition Director of Mother Baby & Child Show commented, “Due to the overwhelming success of our previous shows and the unprecedented demand for Barney, he has agreed to perform again this year for the children of the UAE.”
Children see him as their trusted friend, one who accompanies them as they learn their ABCs, develops their social skills and helps them to express and manage their feelings. To them he’s a fun-loving purple Tyrannosaurus Rex, 200 million years old, friendly, huggable and lovable whose favourite colour just happens to be purple!
However upon closer inspection, Barney is a great resource for parents. Through five distinct areas; Sharing, Caring, Imagining, Dancing and Learning, Barney helps children develop a range of skills essential for their personal development. In a nutshell, Barney offers the most complete skill set around.
Barney will perform live on stage each day at the Mother, Baby & Child Show and will educate and entertain the audience through a series of interactive music, song and dance routines. Naturally audience participation is a must!
The Mother Baby & Child Show has ‘grown up fast’ since its arrival in Dubai in 2004, the event features top international and local brands/retailers and entertainment providers covering more than 4,000 square metres.
For more information about Barney, please visit http://www.barney.com
Join the fun in this Super-dee dooper musical bonanza
For more information about Mother Baby & Child Show 2009, please visit www.motherbabyandchild.com.
CONTEST..WIN A COPY OF I KNOW WHO YOU ARE!
This is your chance to win a copy of the new book, “I KNOW WHO YOU ARE!” by Mariam and Fatima Masood.
Simply answer the following questions and send them to creativemumz@gmail.com with your name and mobile number. Competition for UAE residents only. Contest ends on 25th June.
http://www.iknowwhoyouare-thebook.com/
CONTEST QUESTIONS
1. Where are the authors based?
a. Pakistan b. Dubai c. England
2. In the book, who moves into a new house with his family?
a. Grandfather b. Scuff c. Sultan
3. The book introduces five…
a. friends b. character skins c. family secrets
“I KNOW WHO YOU ARE!” is available at Jashanmal and Magrudys book stores. It is also available online at Amazon.
Time For Homework…
Do you get worried when its time for your kid’s homework?!
Homework seems to take up a lot of family time esp. keeps the mum on her toes. I am sure all of you must have derived some sort of homework tacking strategies. Here are some simple rules.
- Set up a schedule that will allow the child little breaks, and still get the work done.
- Specify a place for your kid to do homework on a daily basis. This will help him/her to realize what is expected of them. Guide them to organize their work place too for smooth study time.
- A good idea is to have the computer near the homework station, in case needed for research work.
- Place a dictionary, atlas, thesaurus and other reference books in that area too.
- Organize pens, pencils, paper and other supplies so that time is not wasted in hunting for those items all around the house.
- Appreciate when the child is showing interest and working towards finishing the task.
- Some children need a push. Talk and explain why homework is important and how a good attitude can do wonders in completing work. Motivation is the key but it will take a lot of time and effort to get the ‘work avoiders’ to get serious. Don’t lose hope, keep trying!
- Once work is completed, it should all be placed back in folders and backpacks. This will help avoid the trouble faced when projects are forgotten at home.
- Backpacks must be placed at easy access points in the house preferably close to the main door so that they are picked up quickly the next morning.
HAPPY HOMEWORKING! as my 3 year old says when he sees his older brother at the desk. 🙂
SCHOOLS IN DUBAI
There is a lot of choice when it comes to schools in Dubai. Here is a list of schools you may consider when deciding where to send you kids. To facilitate us the KHDA has provided us with an evaluation of schools too. Please see post regarding evaluation of Dubai schools. Best of luck!
PO Box: 94550 Dubai Al Ghusais |
AL ANDALUS PRIVATE SCHOOL American Curriculum |
AL ANWAR PRIVATE SCHOOL Arabic Curriculum |
British Curriculum |
Pakistani Curriculum |
AL ITTIHAD PRIVATE SCHOOLS American, Arabic Curriculum |
|
AL MA’ARIF PRIVATE SCHOOL American Curriculum |
American, Arabic Curriculum |
American Curriculum
|
American Curriculum |
AL SALAM PRIVATE SCHOOL & SALAM NURSERY British Curriculum Classes |
AL SADIQ ISLAMIC ENGLISH SCHOOL British Curriculum |
American Curriculum
|
British Curriculum |
|
BUDS PUBLIC SCHOOL Curriculum: CBSE |
CRESCENT ENGLISH HIGH SCHOOL Curriculum: CBSE |
DEANS INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL American Curriculum |
DEIRA INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL British Curriculum |
DELHI PRIVATE SCHOOL Curriculum: CBSE |
DUBAI AMERICAN ACADEMY American Curriculum International Baccalaureate Diploma |
DUBAI AMERICAN SCIENTIFIC SCHOOL American Curriculum |
DUBAI ARAB AMERICAN PVT. SCHOOL American Curriculum |
British Curriculum
|
DUBAI CARMEL SCHOOL British Curriculum |
DUBAI COLLEGE British Curriculum |
DUBAI ENGLISH SPEAKING SCHOOL British Curriculum |
DUBAI ENGLISH SPEAKING COLLEGE British Curriculum |
DUBAI GEM PRIVATE SCHOOL British Curriculum |
DUBAI INFANTS SCHOOLS British Curriculum |
DUBAI INTERNATIONAL ACADEMY International Baccalaureate Organization’s Programme |
DUBAI INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL American Curriculum |
DUBAI MODERN EDUCATION SCHOOL American Curriculum
|
DUBAI MODERN HIGH SCHOOL GEMS Schools |
DUBAI NATIONAL SCHOOL American/Arabic |
DUBAI SCHOLARS PRIVATE SCHOOL British Curriculum |
EMIRATES ENGLISH SPEAKING SCHOOL CBSE |
EMIRATES INTERNATIONAL SCHOOLS JUMEIRAH KG 1 – Year 13 |
EMIRATES INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL MEADOWS International |
ENGLISH MEDIUM SCHOOL British Curriculum |
EUROPEAN SCHOOL OF DUBAI British Curriculum |
FRENCH INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL French |
British Curriculum |
GEMS WORLD ACADEMY IB , KG – Grade 13 |
GERMAN SCHOOL DUBAI German |
GRAMMAR SCHOOL British Curriculum |
GREENFIELD COMMUNITY SCHOOL International Baccalaureate KG 1 – Grade 8 (Grade 9 September 2009) |
CBSE |
GULF MODEL SCHOOL CBSE |
HIS HIGHNESS SHEIKH RASHID AL MAKTOUM PAKISTAN SCHOOL Pakistan ( Federal Board) |
HORIZON SCHOOL British Curriculum |
INTERNATIONAL ACADEMIC SCHOOL American Curriculum |
INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL OF ARTS & SCIENCE American |
ISLAMIC SCHOOL FOR TRAINING & EDUCATION Arabic |
JEBEL ALI PRIMARY SCHOOL British Curriculum |
JUMEIRAH ENGLISH SPEAKING SCHOOL British Curriculum & International Baccalaureate |
JUMEIRAH COLLEGE GEMS Schools ,British Curriculum |
JUMEIRAH PRIMARY SCHOOL GEMS Schools ,British Curriculum |
KINGS’ DUBAI British Curriculum |
LITTLE FLOWER ENGLISH SCHOOL CBSE
|
LYCEE FRANCAIS INTERNATIONAL French
|
American Curriculum |
NEW ACADEMY SCHOOL American Curriculum
|
American Curriculum |
NEW INDIAN MODEL SCHOOL Kerala Syllabus |
NIBRAS INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL American Curriculum |
OUR OWN ENGLISH HIGH SCHOOL Indian CBSE |
PAKISTANI EDUCATION ACADEMY Pakistan, FBISE |
PHILADELPHIA PRIVATE SCHOOL American Curriculum |
PRISTINE PRIVATE SCHOOL British Curriculum |
RAFFLES INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL Pre-school – High School |
RAJAGIRI INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL CBSE
|
|
REGENT INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL British Curriculum
|
REPTON SCHOOL DUBAI British Curriculum |
SALMAN FARSI SCHOOL Iranian |
British Curriculum |
British Curriculum |
British Curriculum
|
British Curriculum |
THE CENTRAL SCHOOL CBSE |
THE CITY SCHOOL INTERNATIONAL British Curriculum |
THE ELITE ENGLISH PRIVATE SCHOOL CBSE |
THE ENGLISH COLLEGE British Curriculum
|
CBSE |
CBSE |
THE INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL OF CHOUEIFAT SABIS®
|
Indian CBSE |
THE MILLENNIUM SCHOOL GEMS Schools |
British Curriculum |
THE SCHOOL OF RESEARCH SCIENCE British Curriculum |
THE SHEFFIELD PRIVATE SCHOOL British Curriculum |
THE WESTMINSTER SCHOOL British Curriculum |
THE WINCHESTER SCHOOL British Curriculum |
UNIVERSAL AMERICAN SCHOOL American Curriculum |
|
WELLINGTON INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL British Curriculum |
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?
HANDY HINTS
Cooking Smell
Get rid of unwanted cooking smells by boiling one teaspoon of ground cinnamon in 1/4 litre of water for fifteen minutes.
Lipstick
When testing lipstick for colour, the best place to try is on the cushion of your finger, where the skin in pinkish like that of lips.
Scissors
To sharpen your scissors, cut a sheet of emery paper into small pieces.
Plasters
If you find removing sticking plasters difficult to remove from your skin, try rubbing baby oil over the plaster.
Plasticine
A quick alternative for plasticine for children is a dough made with salt, water and flour. To give it colour add food colour, paprika or mustard powder. To keep it soft, store in a sealed plastic bag.
Rubber Gloves
As hands sweat a lot in rubber gloves, they may become damp and smell unpleasant. Avoid this by dusting the inside of gloves with talc when you use them. Wash gloves from inside and dry inside out after use.
Shoes
Remove odour from smelly shoes by sprinkling a tablespoon of bicarbonate of soda inside each shoe and leave overnight.
Zips
A zip can be helped to run smoothly by rubbing it with a little soap, pencil lead or candle wax.
Garlic
Get rid of garlic smell from your breadth by chewing fresh mint, a coffee bean, a stalk of parsley or celery.
“I KNOW WHO YOU ARE!”…THE BOOK RELEASING IN SPRING 2009
http://iknowwhoyouare.wordpress.com/
” I KNOW WHO YOU ARE!” is written by Dubai based twin authors, Mariam Masood and Fatima Masood. It is being published in the United Kingdom by Olympia Publishers and shall be out in Spring 2009 with the grace of Almighty Allah.
If you are a book lover, this ones for you.
I am among one of the few first readers of the book and I must say its a very gripping piece of modern literature. The concepts put forward in the book are very unique and capture the mind of the reader. You tend to read and re-read the core lines and concepts as you unfold the mystery woven around the characters.
It would be a good handbook to keep as a guide to understand people we live with. I believe the character skins portrayed in the book are very real. As you read the book you tend to say, “Oh! yes, I know this one; it is so and so in my life..oh so now I know!!”
By Faryal
Here is what the authors have to say about it:
I Know Who You Are! is a unique novel which has a blend of fascinating fiction and hard-core reality. It not only tells the readers the story about Sultan and his family but it also reveals the secret of dealing with people successfully.
The book presents the concept that every person has a Character Skin which guides his behaviour and inspires his conversations. If you know a person’s Character Skin, you can understand, respond and deal with him effectively.
“Truth is only valued by the ones who are righteous, for the ones who are possessed by their own beliefs are indifferent to it.” (Mariam & Fatima Masood)
I Know Who You Are! diversifies a person’s perspective through positive thinking. It invites its reads to explore, enjoy, reflect and analyze the concepts the Character Skins, people, possess.
I Know Who You Are! will be in bookstores in Spring 2009.
To Read the preview, click here…
THE FRIDAY CLASS by Mariam and Fatima Masood
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.
Study Fashion Design Online with the Studio Art School
Studio Art School, UK
Study Fashion Design Online with the Studio Art School
Introduction to Fashion Design and Illustration
Course summary
This is a practical project based course for those who have creative flair and an interest in Fashion, as well as a desire to produce original work. Students work to given briefs, and are encouraged to develop conceptual, analytical and problem solving skills.
Activities include:
Designing for fashion on the figure using figure templates
Creating ‘specification’ drawings
Illustrating fabrics and garments in a range of media
Exploring fashion trends and predictions
Undertaking market research
Learning about fabrics
Researching fashion history
Creating mood boards
Certification
This course leads to the award of the Level 1 Certificate in Design and Crafts from the City & Guilds of London Institute, the UK’s leading provider of vocational qualifications.
On completion of this course, students may wish to progress to City & Guilds level 2,
” Fashion Design and Illustration”.
Entry requirements
No formal entry requirements.
What it costs
Course fee: £290.00
What’s included in the fee
The course fee includes unlimited online tuition and support, together with access to course materials and to a secure personal online studio, where you can upload and store images of your work and communicate with your tutor.
Our courses are supported by comprehensive learning materials which provide step by step instructions, together with suggestions for further study and information on artists, techniques and materials.
What our students say.
“My experience of studying with Studio Art School has been very positive. I have found the website very easy to manage and the activities are well structured and paced. I have been very impressed with the speed and quality of the tutors’ feedback.”. Helen, Barcelona.
When you apply please mention about CREATIVE MUMZ.
How to apply
Comprehensive details about our courses and our online application form can be found at; http://www.studioartschool.co.uk/index.aspx
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
Creative Mumz at the Book Festival- Update
www.creativemumz.wordpress.com
We truly enjoyed participating at the Used Book Festival at Qanat Al Qasba, Sharjah from 29th – 31st March , organized by Sharjah City for Humanitarian Services. Qanat Al Qasba is a great place for family outings There was a huge collection of Arabic and English books for kids as well as grown ups at the book festival. We had around 200 books at our tent and sold nearly ¾ of our collection. We sold many titles, the response was great.
We began with setting up our tent on the 28th. Hashma and I shopped for decorations; made the flyers and the front banner, put up everything. I had scores of preparations to be completed, a tough job with the little ones around! But we really enjoyed the enriching experience. And most of all I loved shopping for books at the festival. Even my family shopped for many and we all ended up with a huge collection of interesting reads.
Thanks to everyone who donated books to Creative Mumz for the event and volunteered at the tent.
Special thanks to Hashma who helped with the preparations, Mena for coming on the first day and volunteering for the whole morning, special thanks to Sana, Mariam, Fatima, Amir and Yasser for their support and for taking shifts to man our stall. Thanks to my parents who came along on Friday to encourage and support.
Check out other photos of the event.
Join our mailing list and receive our free monthly newsletter, log on to www.creativemumz.com
SAYINGS ABOUT LIFE
Be who you are and say what you feel because those who mind don’t matter and those who matter don’t mind.
– Dr. Seuss
Work like you don’t need the money, love like you’ve never been hurt and dance like no one is watching.
– Randall G Leighton
When life gives you a hundred reasons to cry, show life that you have a thousand reasons to smile.
– Unknown
Feelings change – memories don’t.
– Joel Alexander
Forgive your enemies, but never, never forget their names.
– John F. Kennedy
Being sad with the right people is better than being happy with the wrong ones.
– Philippos
Never allow someone to be your priority while you’re just their option
– Unknown
My best dreams and worst nightmares have the same people in them.
– Philippos
(Sign up for our monthly newsletter for updates, recipes, tips, art and craft ideas and more, log on to www.creativemumz.com )
CHILDREN LEARN WHAT THEY LIVE
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.
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
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
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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Mums in Dubai and Sharjah-Shopping, Kids Play Areas and Coffee..
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
- 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.
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
Inspiration…Where can we find it?
Look deep with in yourself…deep down… there is someone very pure, very innocent, very loving, very sensitive and above all very inspiring!
Life can sometimes be very stressful and everything may seem gloomy. When we are low, distressed, in grief, we long for someone to pat our shoulder, inspire us and say, “Don’t worry, all will be fine. Get up and get going, boost your energy, look at the brighter side, find happiness in the simple things you have and make the most of them, fill yourself with courage, enthusiasm and self worth, you are doing a good job, I appreciate you.” But most of the time we do not find anyone to console us.
The best and the most honest person to uplift our spirits is our own SELF. The best inspiration a person can find is with in him/herself. Because we truly understand what we are going through, we respect the fact that we are hurt and sincerely want to do something about it. We are our best well wisher. So go ahead complement yourself for what you are and what you do. Be your own stimulus and your life will change for the better!
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
Creative Mumz has been featured on the Home Office Women website.
To read the feature please click here.
Regards,
Faryal
‘Must Haves’ in mommy’s hand bag
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
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
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!
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!
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
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!
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