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Christmas-Themed Ice Painting: A Festive Sensory Activity for Kids

Posted on by Jess Prasad
19
Dec

Here in Australia, Christmas means sunshine, BBQs, and backyard fun! 🌞 So why not embrace the warm weather with a festive and refreshing activity for the kids? Christmas-themed ice painting is a perfect way to beat the heat while sparking creativity.

All you need are some Christmas-themed ice moulds—think candy canes, stockings, and gingerbread men. Freeze water in the moulds overnight, then hand the kids washable paints or food colouring. As they paint, the ice melts, creating a magical swirl of colours perfect for a summer’s day.

This activity is not just fun but also a sensory treat, combining cool textures and vibrant colours. Bonus: It’s a mess you can hose down outside, making clean-up a breeze!

So grab those icy creations, find a shady spot in the backyard, and let the kids enjoy some Christmas-themed fun in the Aussie sun. 🎄☀️

“Note:” For this activity, I used the Christmas-themed silicone moulds from Kmart.

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Elf on the Shelf: Once You Start, You Just Can’t Stop!

Posted on by Jess Prasad
02
Dec

If you’re a parent who’s dabbled in the world of Elf on the Shelf, you already know—once that little elf enters your home, there’s no turning back. What starts as a sweet and magical holiday tradition quickly snowballs into late-night panic sessions, creative bursts of genius, and yes, a few laughable “what-was-I-thinking” moments.

At first, it’s thrilling. You imagine your kids waking up to see their elf, Charlie (yes, our mischievous little guy!), building a gingerbread house out of sandwich crackers or riding the Wayfinding Boat toy across the living room. The joy and giggles? Totally worth it.

But let me tell you, it doesn’t take long before the daily elf antics go from fun to frazzling. One night, you’re feeling ambitious, setting up an intricate playdough snowman scene. The next, it’s 11:30 PM, and you’re desperately rummaging through the Christmas decorations to make Charlie “decorate” the tree with leftover tinsel. Sound familiar?

Stuck? Help is on the Way!

If you’re feeling the pressure to keep the elf magic alive, don’t worry—I’ve got your back. My YouTube channel has a treasure trove of easy, funny, and (mostly) mess-free Elf on the Shelf ideas to help you through the season. From DIY elf props to quick setups for those “oops-I-forgot” moments, you’ll find plenty of inspiration to keep your little ones smiling.

Because let’s face it, even when we’re frantically rearranging candy canes at midnight, we wouldn’t trade these moments for anything. The joy and laughter our little mischief-maker brings are what make the holiday season so special.

What are your funniest Elf on the Shelf moments? Let me know in the comments or tag me on social media—I’d love to hear your stories.

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Halloween Down Under!

Posted on by Jess Prasad
30
Oct

“In Australia, Halloween has traditionally flown under the radar, especially compared to the full-blown celebrations seen in other parts of the world. But lately, it’s starting to gain a little more traction, thanks to TV shows, movies, and the endless fascination kids have with all things spooky! Though you won’t see entire neighborhoods decked out in cobwebs or streets full of trick-or-treaters, there’s a growing excitement for Halloween ‘Down Under.’ As a mum, it’s been a joy to add a bit of spooky fun into our week, from crafting to surprise Halloween lunchbox treats, bringing just enough magic to make it memorable!”

Check out our YouTube and Instagram at Hey Mumzy to see all the Halloween magic we’ve created!

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Mum Life Made Easier: My Go-To Tech Tools!

Posted on by Jess Prasad
15
Oct

Let’s be real—motherhood can sometimes feel like a never-ending whirlwind of chaos. After school drop-offs, work, and running around like a headless chook, no one wants to think about vacuuming or tackling household chores. Finding ways to save time can seem like a miracle, and thankfully, technology is here to help!

Let me share some of my favourite tech tools that could make a world of difference in your daily routine, starting with my trusty companion: Robotic Vacuum/Mop.

  • Robotic Vacuum/Mop: Your new Cleaning Sidekick

Imagine this: every morning, just before you dash out the door, you set your Robotic Vacuum loose in the house. Sounds dreamy, right? This little genius not only keeps your floors spotless but also gives you the freedom to tackle other tasks. I have been using Roborock S8 Pro Ultra Robotic Vacuum and Mop for the past year and it’s been like having a cleaning fairy- except it runs on batteries!. I’m not saying these will replace manual vacuum and mop but it sure will reduce the frequency of manual cleaning. They are brilliant for a house with messy kids and pets.         

  • Meal Plan Apps/Templates: Simplifying Dinner Time

Now, let’s talk about dinner. If you’ve ever stood in front of an empty fridge wondering what to make, you’re not alone! Meal plan apps like Plan Buy Cook can revolutionise your approach to meals. They can help you plan, create grocery lists, and even suggest recipes based on what you already have. Who knew meal planning could be this easy?

  • Educational Apps: Learning Made Fun

When you need to send that quick email or just need a bit of quiet to get things done, educational apps can be a lifesaver. Consider options like Khan Academy Kids or Reading Eggs that keep your little ones engaged while you gather your thoughts. Not only do they provide valuable educational content, but they also give you those moments you need to think and be productive!

  • Family Organiser Apps: Keeping Everyone on Track

Do you ever feel like you’re juggling a million schedules and forgetting what’s happening at school? You’re not alone! I recently started using family organiser app like Google Calendar because my brain was done trying to keep track of it all. These apps can be game-changers for busy families. With just a few taps, you can coordinate activities, appointments, and playdates, helping everyone stay on the same page and reducing that last-minute chaos.

Embracing tech doesn’t mean losing that personal touch; it means finding smarter ways to create space for what truly matters—family time, self-care, and maybe even a little bit of sanity!

What are your favourite tech tools or hacks that help make mum life easier? Share your go-to gadgets or apps in the comments—I’d love to hear how you save time!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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The Daily Hacks That Keep My House (Mostly) Tidy and My Sanity Intact!

Posted on by Jess Prasad
22
Sep

I often get asked how my home stays so tidy, especially with kids running around. The truth is, it’s not magic or a superhuman effort—just a few simple things I do every day to keep things in order. Don’t get me wrong; our home is lived in, and mess is definitely part of the package. But I’ve found that sticking to a routine helps me stay on top of things, so the chaos doesn’t completely take over. It’s all about finding that balance between enjoying life and maintaining some sense of order.

1. Make Your Bed

Trust me, it does make a difference!. Starting the day by making your bed sets a positive tone. It instantly makes the bedroom look tidy and gives me a small win before I even leave the room. Plus, there’s nothing better than getting into a neatly made bed at the end of a long day.

2. Quick Kitchen Cleanup

Before I head out for school drop-offs, after the kids have enjoyed their hot breakfast and turned the kitchen into a mini mess, I take a few minutes to wipe down the counters, put away any dishes, and start the dishwasher if needed. I make sure the sink is clear so it’s ready for the rest of the day’s meals. A clean kitchen keeps me in a good mood, especially since it’s the heart of our home, and it’s nice to come back to a tidy space after the morning rush.

3. Laundry Load a Day

Laundry can pile up quickly, so I do one load every day. Whether it’s clothes, towels, or bedding, staying on top of it prevents the dreaded laundry mountain. I put the load on in the morning and try to fold it and put it away before bedtime.

4. Daily House Sweep/Vacuum

I do a quick sweep or vacuum of the living areas almost daily. I absolutely love my Roborock, which takes care of the vacuuming for me. It’s perfectly okay to take advantage of available tech! On days I’m not using my big vacuum, I turn on the Roborock before leaving the house. It’s a great way to keep on top of things and ensures I come back to a clean floor after the morning rush.

5. Evening Kitchen Reset

After dinner, I like to do a final kitchen cleanup. I load the dishwasher, wipe down the counters, and take out the trash if it’s full. This way, I wake up to a fresh, clean kitchen, which makes the morning routine smoother.

6. Nightly House Reset

Before heading to bed, I do one last sweep of the house. I pick up anything that’s out of place, fold any blankets on the couch, and make sure the house is generally in order. I also get the kids involved, having them pick up and put away their toys, books, and anything else they’ve left around. It’s a calming way to end the day and ensures I’m not waking up to chaos the next morning. Plus, it teaches the kids the importance of tidying up after themselves.

7. Declutter Frequently

Finally, I make it a habit to declutter frequently. Every day, I aim to get rid of something we no longer need. Whether it’s old books, a toy the kids have outgrown, or that kitchen gadget that’s just collecting dust, letting go of items we don’t use keeps the house from getting cluttered.

These daily habits don’t take up much time, but they make a huge difference in keeping the house tidy. It’s all about creating routines that work for you and your family, so the cleaning doesn’t feel like a constant chore. And remember, a tidy house is a work in progress, especially with kids in the mix—so don’t stress about perfection!

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Holiday Mayhem: Guide to Surviving School Holidays

Posted on by Jess Prasad

School holidays are here again—can you believe how quickly that term flew by? As we dive into the next couple of weeks, it’s important to strike a balance between relaxing and staying engaged. Kids grow up fast, and while you want to make the most of this time together, it’s also crucial to keep your sanity and carve out some moments for self-care.

So, mix in some chilled days with a few activity-packed ones. Plan cosy movie afternoons and lazy mornings, but also include creative projects, outdoor fun, and interactive challenges. With a little bit of everything, you’ll keep the kids entertained and create memorable moments while also making sure you get some much-needed downtime. We’ve got this, folks!

Here are some unique and engaging activities kids can enjoy at home during school holidays:

  1. DIY Mini Escape Room: Create a simple escape room experience with puzzles, clues, and challenges around the house. Tailor it to your kids’ interests for extra fun.
  2. Indoor Scavenger Hunt: Set up a scavenger hunt with creative clues and items to find around the house. You can theme it to match their favorite books or movies.
  3. Crafts with Recycled Materials: Use old boxes, bottles, and paper rolls to create new crafts. From robot figures to jewelry, the possibilities are endless.
  4. DIY Science Experiments: Conduct simple, safe experiments like making slime, volcanoes with baking soda and vinegar, or growing crystals.
  5. Cooking and Baking Challenges: Host a cooking competition where kids create dishes or desserts from a mystery box of ingredients. Adult supervision required of course!
  6. Indoor Camping: Set up a tent or fort with blankets and pillows in the living room.
  7. Interactive Storybook Creation: Let kids create their own storybooks by drawing pictures and writing stories. You can even bind them into a little book.
  8. Virtual Museum Tours: Explore virtual tours of museums and galleries around the world. Many offer interactive and educational experiences. https://www.travelandleisure.com/attractions/museums-galleries/museums-with-virtual-tours
  9. Music and Dance Party: Host a dance party with a playlist of their favorite songs. Let kids come up with their own dance routines and have a mini talent show.

Balance is the key – enjoy the chaos and the calm, making the most of the school holidays together!.

Blog

Tackling Fussy Eaters: Tips and Tricks for Happier Mealtimes

Posted on by Jess Prasad
02
Sep

As parents, we all have likely experienced the frustration that comes with having a picky eater at mealtimes. The endless negotiations, the rejected meals, and the constant worry about whether your kids are getting enough nutrients—it can be overwhelming. Here are some tried-and-true strategies to help you and your picky eater find peace at the table:

Introduce New Foods Gradually

Start by offering small portions of new foods alongside familiar favourites. Don’t pressure your child to eat it all—just getting them to taste it is a win. Repeated exposure is key; sometimes it takes multiple tries for a child to accept a new food.

Make Food Fun

Children are naturally curious, and turning food into a fun experience can pique their interest. Try cutting sandwiches into fun shapes using cookie cutters or arranging fruits and veggies into colorful patterns or faces. Let your child help with meal preparation, whether it’s mixing ingredients or setting the table—this can create a sense of ownership and make them more excited to eat what they’ve helped create.

Hide the Veggies

Sometimes, getting creative with how you prepare food can make all the difference. Incorporate vegetables into dishes where they’re less noticeable—like adding pureed carrots to pasta sauce or blending spinach into smoothies. This way, your child gets the nutrients they need without even realizing it! I have been loving these spinach portions from Belle Farms, I add them to just about anything. Pastas, rice, meatballs and burger patties the options are endless.

Offer Choices

Giving your child some control over what they eat can reduce resistance. Offer a couple of healthy options and let them choose. For example, ask if they’d prefer apple slices or carrot sticks with their lunch. This small sense of autonomy can make a big difference.

Dealing with a picky eater can be challenging, but with patience, creativity, and consistency, you can help your child develop a healthier relationship with food. Remember, every small step counts, and it’s important to celebrate the victories, no matter how small. Keep trying, stay positive, and know that you’re not alone in this journey.

For more tips and family-friendly recipes, check out HeyMumzy on YouTube. And if you have any tips for dealing with picky eaters, I’d love to hear them in the comments below!

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When Too Much Screen Time Makes Your Kids Impolite: How I Fixed It

Posted on by Jess Prasad
18
Aug

Recovering from the flu is never easy, especially when you have little ones to take care of. Recently, I found myself bedridden with a nasty flu, and during that time, my kids’ screen time increased significantly. It was a lifesaver at the moment, but I soon noticed a change in their behaviour. They became more impatient, less polite, and generally more demanding.

Here’s how I realised what was happening and the steps I took to turn things around:

Realising the Issue

During my recovery, I noticed my kids were getting increasingly bratty. Simple requests were met with grumbles and demands. I initially thought it was just a phase due to the disruption of our usual routine, but it became clear that the extended screen time was affecting their behaviour.

1. Gradually Reduce Screen Time

Instead of cutting off screens abruptly, I gradually reduced their screen time. This helped avoid a meltdown and made the transition smoother.

2. Set Clear Limits

I established clear rules for screen time. We created a schedule that included specific times for watching TV or using tablets, balanced with time for other activities.

3. Introduce Engaging Alternatives

I filled our days with engaging activities that didn’t involve screens. Crafts, puzzles, outdoor play, and reading became our go-to activities.

4. Positive Reinforcement:

I praised polite behaviour and good manners, which encouraged my kids to continue being respectful and courteous.

5. Family Time

We spent more time together as a family, playing games, cooking, and just talking. This helped reinforce positive behaviour and brought us closer together.

Have you ever noticed a change in your children’s behaviour due to increased screen time? What strategies have you found helpful in managing their screen use and encouraging polite behaviour? I’d love to hear your experiences and tips! Share your thoughts in the comments below.

Blog

Effortless Chic: Fabulous Fashion for Busy Mums

Posted on by Jess Prasad
11
Aug

Being a mom is a full-time job, and finding time for personal style can feel like a luxury. But looking fabulous doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. With a few simple strategies, you can build a stylish and comfortable wardrobe that keeps you confident and at ease, no matter how busy your day is.

1. Discover Your Personal Style

Finding your personal style doesn’t mean reinventing yourself; it’s about identifying what makes you feel fabulous. Start by exploring fashion inspiration through social media, magazines, or style quizzes. Once you have an idea of what you like, build a wardrobe around those elements. Focus on versatile pieces that can be mixed and matched to create a variety of looks.

2. Budget-Friendly Fashion Finds

Looking stylish doesn’t have to break the bank. Make the most of sales, use coupons, and hunt for bargains to keep your wardrobe fresh without overspending. And don’t forget the DIY route—customizing or updating old clothing can give your wardrobe a new lease on life.

3. Fashion for Different Body Types

Everyone’s body is unique, and the right clothing can make all the difference. Learn about different styles that flatter your shape and enhance your best features. Embrace body positivity and choose clothes that make you feel confident and comfortable.

4. Build a Capsule Wardrobe

A capsule wardrobe is a game-changer for busy moms. It involves curating a collection of versatile, high-quality pieces that work well together. Start with basics like well-fitting jeans, classic tees, and a few statement pieces. This approach minimizes decision fatigue and ensures you always have something stylish to wear.

5. Effortless Styling Tips

When you’re short on time, go for outfits that are easy to put together but still look polished. Invest in accessories like scarves, jewelry, and hats to elevate any outfit quickly. Simple hair and makeup routines can also complement your look without taking up too much of your time.

With a bit of planning and some comfy, stylish pieces, you can feel great without missing a beat. After all, the best accessory is confidence, and nothing says confidence like a mom who can juggle toddler tantrums and teenage meltdowns while still looking amazing. So go ahead, embrace your style and strut your stuff—you’ve earned it!

I’d love to hear your thoughts! Share your favorite fashion tips or how you manage to stay stylish and comfortable in the comments below.
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Posted on by Jess Prasad
04
Aug

Give the Gift of Memories: Experiences Over Things

In a world filled with toys and gadgets, it can be refreshing to consider gifting experiences instead of material presents. Experiences create lasting memories, foster deeper connections, and often have a more profound impact than physical items. With my son’s 9th birthday just around the corner, I’ve been reflecting on how to make this milestone truly special. Rather than adding another toy to the collection, I’m leaning towards an experience that he can remember and cherish for years to come. But will he appreciate this? Is it too soon to move from tangible gifts to experiences? What do you think? If you’re also pondering how to give a gift that’s both meaningful and memorable, read on for some inspiring ideas that go beyond the usual presents.

Experience-Based Gift Ideas for Children

  1. Adventure Park: A day at an adventure park with zip lines, climbing walls, and obstacle courses can be thrilling and active.
  2. Weekend Getaways: Plan a weekend trip to a nearby city, beach, or countryside. These mini-vacations can be a great way to unwind and explore new places together.
  3. Cooking Class: A child-friendly cooking class where they can make their own pizza, cookies, or other treats.
  4. Sports Event: Tickets to see their favourite sports team or a local game can be a thrilling experience.
  5. Outdoor Fun: Plan a day of hiking, a visit to a nature reserve, or a picnic with fun activities.
  6. Theme Park: A trip to a theme park for a day of rides and excitement.
  7. Creative Workshop: Enrol them in a workshop for art, LEGO building, sewing or robotics—something that matches their interests.
  8. Escape Room: A kid-friendly escape room experience can be a fun and challenging adventure.
  9. Special Event: Look for upcoming events like a magic show, dinosaur exhibit, or children’s theatre performance.
  10. Virtual Reality Experience: If they’re into tech, a VR experience can be an exciting new world to explore.

Tips for Gifting Experiences: Consider the recipient’s interests to tailor a thoughtful and appreciated experience, plan ahead with necessary bookings to avoid disappointment, get creative in presenting the gift with a personalised voucher or detailed itinerary. If you want to include a physical element, consider something related to the experience, like a book about the place you’ll visit or a tool for the activity you’ll do.

By creating lasting memories, these experiences can be cherished for a lifetime, often remaining vivid long after toys have been forgotten. Additionally, experiences often provide opportunities for learning and personal growth, whether through exploring new places, trying new activities, or acquiring new skills. Plus, they help reduce clutter by minimizing the accumulation of material possessions. Choosing experiences over physical gifts can lead to more memorable and fulfilling moments for everyone involved.

What experience-based gift ideas have you tried or are considering for your loved ones? Share your thoughts and suggestions in the comments below!