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Milbo’s Teething Jewellery Review

**this is a sponsored post

Why I Love Silicone Teething Jewellery

When I’m not doing the “just been to the gym” look, or the “lazy sweat pants because I can’t wear pyjamas to work” look, I like wearing necklaces.

Jewellery, pretty headbands, and slouch handbags are a quick and easy way to dress up an outfit and to make you feel a little bit pretty. And in my line of work, this is a much-needed bonus!

Because any one who’s spent even half an hour with kids would know – it sure isn’t pretty.

Given that I specialise in babies and toddlers, it’s not unusual to see me wearing baby slobbered glasses and sporting various forms of baby breakfast crushed into my shirt front. It’s amazing just how much snot can come dribbling out of a grumpy toddler during a 45 second temper tantrum.

In the nanny life (and the mummy life), wearing pretty clothes is always a bit risky. You’ve got to take into account the inevitable baby vomit, the tugging and stretching on the bottom of your shirts, the crusty milk moustaches, and the sticky fingered messes that will end up prodded into your eyes, mouth, hair and anywhere else within reach. It goes with the territory.

Popping on a necklace as I run out the door each morning has been the one thing keeping me closer to glam, than frumpy.

The downside to this though is that bright and shiny things are a baby and toddlers new favourite toys. So too are dangly things, delicate things, colourful things, anything remotely special to you, and really anything that can go in the mouth. Plus some things that really shouldn’t go in the mouth!

My necklaces get chewed, slobbered on, tangled up into the worst knots imaginable, and yes, even broken.

So I’ve been on the hunt for some new jewellery, something bright and colourful that I can wear to jazz up a very baby-friendly outfit. The jewellery had to meet a few essential requirements.

Baby friendly jewellery needs to be sturdy, durable, strong, bright and colourful, baby teeth friendly, pretty and yet still delicate enough to look a little more feminine than as if I had just toted an oversized freezable baby-teething chew toy around my neck.

Immediately I thought of Dinosaur Designs; an iconic Australian designer that makes luscious jewellery and home wares. Except, they’re just a little too precious and a little less baby weathered.

Which brings me to Milbo’s Designs – the Dinosaur Designs equivalent to baby-friendly jewellery – perfect for anyone working with kids.

Milbo’s have a delightful range or baby-friendly jewellery to serve just this purpose. They specialise in stylish and practical jewellery solutions for the modern mum, and in fact as I can testify, any woman who wants practical child appropriate jewellery that’s also stunning to wear with piece of mind and style both catered for.

@milbos_design – the Dinosaur Designs equivalent to stylish, baby-friendly jewellery. #milbos #siliconeteethingjewellery

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Milbo’s products are made from 100% non-toxic, BPA free food grade silicon (a safe, durable and environmentally friendly material). Perhaps the best thing – the breakaway clasp. No more picking up a baby to find their feet have snagged the necklace and pulled it so tight the clap has broken!

I was given the Gold Coast Geometric Mama Necklace to road test. The Milbo’s range is trendy, and yet simply understated. They’re great for a tiny hand to grasp or a little finger to play with. They’re vibrant and the perfect accessory to bring together an outfit.

Win A Milbo’s Design Silicon Teething Necklace (Mama Necklace)

// To Enter:

Leave a comment and tell us your favourite product from the Milbo’s range
Tag us (@NannyShecando) in a photo on social media (Instagram, Facebook or Twitter) and show us your #nannystyle
“Like” and “Follow” Milbo’s Design (@milbos_design) and NANNY SHECANDO (@hopeelisa) on Instagram

// Terms and Conditions:

i) 1 x Milbo’s silicone teething jewellery necklace to win
ii) Entries open Saturday June 20, entries close 7pm Sunday July 5
iii) Winner announced Monday July 6, 10am on the blog
iv) The successful applicant will have 7 days from the draw to claim their prize, if prize in not claimed, a redraw will take place
v) Successful applicant must be 18 years or older
vi) Prizes are not redeemable for cash, nor transferable

**BPA silicone teething jewellery review

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Milbo’s Design is an Australian company founded by director Jo Hutchinson. Integral to the Milbo’s product philosophy is the desire to problem solve and provide solutions for that extra dribbly baby, the super messy eater, the distracted breastfeeding bub, all the cranky teething babies and the one that was determined to pull mum’s hair every minute whilst breastfeeding. Milbo’s jewellery can be worn as breastfeeding necklaces, nursing necklaces, worn whilst baby wearing, and even by the older toddlers whilst getting those 2-year-old molars.

5 Easy Ways To Exercise At Home With kids

With winter looming quickly for us Southern Hemisphere residents, it’s time to start thinking about how you’re going to manage the work/life balance in the nanny life. Because I for one know with certainty that you won’t be seeing me out pounding the pavement at 4.30am when it’s cold and raining out. Just not going to happen. But I do know how important it is to maintain a fit and healthy lifestyle during the winter months, if not for the sake of fitting into my skinny jeans, but for my mental health. Thanks Abby for sharing these exercise tips, I’ll be taking notes!

5 Easy Ways To Exercise At Home With Kids Whilst Nannying

(For When You’re Really Not In The Mood) After working long hours, sometimes the last thing I want to do is go to the gym. During those times, Netflix and yoga pants are my best friends and the treadmill and battle ropes are more foe than friend.

But the truth is, we still need to exercise. It’s important for our health and wellbeing, and it keeps us happy and patient with kids whilst working long hours. So on those long tiring days, how can you sneak in some exercise?

The most obvious way to get in some exercise is by taking the kids out for a walk. Depending on the ages you care for, you could even take the jogging stroller out and pound the pavement. But, what if it’s winter and you’re caring for three hyperactive children?

Here are 5 sneaky yet easy ways to exercise at home with kids (even when you’re not in the mood) so that you can feel less guilty about those full-fat mochas.

1. Calf raises

Calf raises is an activity you can do when preparing lunch, or whilst helping the kids with their homework.

2. Walking Lunges

Walking lunges are an easy way to work your quads, hamstrings, glutes and core. Do you need to get a book from the top shelf? Add a little jump in between. Make sure you have enough room. When you’re down in the lunge, use your hamstrings (or thighs) and spring up, quickly landing on the opposite leg, or the leg that was just behind your body and bring it to the front. This is an easy activity to do wherever you have the space. My charge drinks water like a fish so I’m always doing these as I go back and forth to the refrigerator.

3. Wall Sit

How often do you find yourself with an extra 30 seconds through the day? While we as nannies are incredibly busy, I’m sure you’d have an extra 30 seconds (or even 15) more often than you’d think. For this exercise all you need to do is find a wall with enough room and a clear space. Put your back against the wall and then slide down so that your thighs are parallel to the floor. This exercise is easier if your feet are shoulder width apart and your knees don’t go over your toes. Hold it for as long as you can. If the burn gets to be too much, straighten your legs to break up the build-up of lactic acid and get right back to it!

4. Get up on your feet

Instead of sitting down with the kids while they’re doing an activity, stand. Smithsonian Mag says that there is a reduced risk of type 2 diabetes, a reduced risk of cardiovascular disease and a reduced risk of obesity for the people who are active and on their feet more than those who sat at a desk. Even though we’re nannies and constantly on our feet, it still helps to take advantage of those times where we can make a more active and healthier choice.

5. Make use of nap-time

If you happen to enjoy a glorious naptime hour, you should use to your advantage. Nap-time could be an hour of uninterrupted exercise. Providing it actually happens of course. Clear a space in the living room or playroom. If you can go online, pull up different exercises on YouTube or go to the health and fitness page on pinterest. From there it’s very easy to find some short exercises that you can do whilst your charges are snoozing.

Not limited to home workouts? Here’s 8 more ways to squeeze exercise into your day with kids.

Yes, as nannies we’re busy. We’re busy on our feet, lifting kids, chasing kids, preparing bottles, dancing to Raffi. We’re with our charges for so many hours of the day that it’s easy to lose count. However, given we’re with our charges for such a major part of their early upbringing, we have the unique opportunity of being able to influence their actions, and also to be seen as a positive example.

Whilst your kids are doing an activity, stand don’t sit. Do a jumping jack. #exercise #nannylife

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We can show them that even when the hours get busy, it’s important to make exercise part of the routine. Many of these things are easier said than done, however even if you’re able to put just a little bit into your day it will make you feel a lot better than if you didn’t, and that’s a guarantee!

>>> How do you squeeze in exercise at home with the kids?

original image photo credit Lorna Jane

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Abby Sneddon is a professional U.S based nanny. She currently works with two gorgeous toddlers in a nanny share arrangement and has a professional background in private Montessori preschools. Abby believes the best way to teach a child is to lead by example and carries this notion through every aspect when it comes to health, wellbeing and fitness, raising well-developed children, and education. Abby blogs at The Nap Time Nanny.

Put Yourself On Your Priority List

(To prevent professional burn out) As I write this, I sit in the kitchen of a family I do some date night babysitting for. It’s my second babysitting job for the day. To add to my schedule, at around 8:15 this morning, one of my Mom Bosses called and asked if I could babysit.

I told her that I could the morning, or the afternoon. Those times didn’t work out and as I hung up, I cried from relief. But, as I sit at the kitchen table, after the kids are asleep, she texts me to see if I could babysit tomorrow. I say yes. What’s my problem?! Welcome to the 65 hour work week, with no “weekends.”

As nannies, we spend almost every working hour (and a lot of non working hours) seeing to the needs of other people. We unload people’s dishes, and we fold their laundry. Sometimes we vacuum their homes and we almost always do dinner.

If we don’t set aside the time to put ourselves first, it can begin to seem as though there’s no light at the end of the tunnel. Sure we love our nanny kids and our parent bosses, we show them love by doing what we do.

But if we don’t make the time to do something for ourselves, be it a pedicure, or a gym session, or to sit on the couch with a glass of wine and binge watch Grey’s Anatomy, we soon find ourselves stuck in cycle of endless work.

There’s no sun, there’s no light, there’s no break. And you know what? You deserve a break. A caregiver is not all that you are. Whilst being a caregiver is a huge part of your generous personality, it shouldn’t consume your entire existence. Put yourself on your priority list to prevent burnout and to win back some work life balance.

So after working 65 hours one week and 50 the next, I have an appointment for a mani-pedi with a girlfriend. Because I am not just an exhausted and happily overworked nanny, I am a girly girl who likes her nails to be sparkly.

You deserve a break. A caregiver is not all that you are. Carve time for *you*. #nannylife #burnout

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Nannies, I give you permission to take time out for yourself. I give you permission to say no to the 3rd babysit job for the day. I give you permission to protect your weekends and I give you permission to reserve the right to be picky with your jobs.

Mostly, I give you permission to sit on the couch in your pyjamas after a long day and watch trashy tv. It does not make you any less of a responsible nanny, nor any less educated, respectable, or professional. It makes you strong.

>>> So what’s your plan for the weekend? Lots of RnR I hope!

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7 Tips For Child Safety In The Summer Heat

Summer is a fun time for kids! School’s out, routines are forgotten, the days seem endless, and the opportunity to play outside all day is a likely occurrence. But most years, summer also sees a record high of tragic and otherwise preventable heat-related accidents. As I’m sure you know, summer is hot and things heat up very quickly! Child safety is a must.

Whilst you’re out enjoying wearing fewer layers, balmy summer nights and sunning your pale legs, there are few things that are important to remember. Especially if you’re caring for infants and small children, these key factors could mean the difference between life and death.

First off, know that the optimal body temperature is between 36 and 37 degrees celsius and in extreme heats, the body struggles to regulate this temperature to cool itself down. Babies and toddlers are very susceptible to hot weather, and can quickly become stressed or agitated by the heat. If exposed to heat for too long, they run the risk of suffering heat stroke. During the hot days or when your child is running a high temperature, always monitor your child’s symptoms. If they are looking unwell, become floppy or overly irritable, have fewer wet nappies, and/or refuse liquids, it may be time to seek medical attention.

To avoid the chance of your little ones baking from overexposure to the blistering heat, here’s our

7 Tips For Child Safety In The Summer Heat

1. Never leave your child alone in the car

We’ve all been there, debating the risk of waking the blissfully sleeping baby just to dash into the corner store for milk. I mean the saying goes, “never wake a sleeping baby!” But in this case, the saying is wrong. The risk of your sleeping child overheating in the car just isn’t worth it, and it’s never a good idea. This summer alone there have been x amount of deaths from children left alone in vehicles. Even if the air conditioning is on and the temperature feels cool to you, your child could still become stressed and agitated while left unattended. Whilst laws vary, it’s never ok to leave your child in the car. Also ensure that children are shaded from the sun when driving. Your child’s safety comes first.

2. Slow down between 11am and 3pm

Embrace the shade or indoor activities during the hottest part of the day. Allow time for your children to rest and recoup their energy. It’s the perfect time to cuddle up and read a book on the couch!

3. Understand the Sun

Particularly in Australia, it’s vital that children understand how harsh the sun is, and that even on shaded and windy days, the UV can still be dangerously high. To help your child understand the importance and significance of the sun and the dangers of sunburn, ensure you talk regularly with them about it. Introduce books, stories, movies and even informational pamphlets to make it easier for them to understand.

4. Drink plenty of water

Keep your kids hydrated with plenty of water, and remember to always carry water bottles with you during the summer heat. Breastfeeding and formula-fed babies can have small sips of cool boiled water if necessary between feeds. And if your kids aren’t super keen on water, freeze fresh fruit for them to suck on.

5. Slip, Slop, Slap

When at the beach or pool, you can never be too cautious with your kids. Use baby and toddler approved sunscreen with 40+ strength SPF, and reapply after every two hours. If your child wipes their eyes a lot, you will need to reapply sooner. Avoid the risk of harsh sunburn by covering up with long-sleeved rash guard shirts and board shorts. Remember: No hat, no play!

6. Keep children shaded at all times when out in the sun

Use a light cloth material, sarong or scarf to shade the pram from harsh sunlight when out running errands and make sure your child’s arms and legs are well covered and that their straps are not too tight. For days at the park, outdoor play centres or even just in the backyard, invest in a portable shade tent. Call it a “cubby” and fill it with drink bottles, towels, hats, snacks, books and toys to keep them happily playing in the shade.

7. Stay cool

The heat is difficult to deal with when you’ve got little ones. It’s always much easier to put more clothes on them in the cold than it is to get them to cool down in the summer heat. Make sure you dress your child in cool, lightweight clothing that allows for plenty of airflow. For bubs and toddlers during extreme temps, stripping them down to just their diaper whilst indoors can help. A light lukewarm sponge bath can help to reduce elevated body temperature.

This summer make sure you remember: No hat? NO PLAY!

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>>> How do you manage the summer heat with kids?

A version of this post appeared first on Care Academy, written & contributed by NANNY SHECANDO.

A Touch Of Spring: Rolled Felt Flower Brooch

We are carrying on a spring flower theme for the step into spring series with today’s tutorial, this time from Sarah of Hunting for Ladybugs. It’s just the thing to help you step into spring. She has a super quick tutorial to make these sweet rolled roses that you could put on a brooch, use in gift wrapping or place in a vase on your window sill. Add a few drops of rose essential oil for the ultimate Spring indulgence!

Wearing a Touch of Spring: Rolled Felt Flower Brooch

You Will Need:

Some felt (thick card would also work well)
Scissors
Brooch Pin
Needle & thread (or hot glue gun)
Fabric Glue (optional)

Begin by tracing around something round – my circle is about 10cm diameter.

Cut it out.

Now cut it around in a spiral shape working from the outside in. Start with a straight line from the outside edge before spiralling. I’ve marked where I cut in pencil so you could see but just eyeball yours (otherwise you’ll see pencil marks on the top of your petals).

You’ll have some scraps – the centre circle and a little bit after my first loop around (you’ll want the spiral an even-ish width all the way around).

Now to roll. Begin at the outside edge as you roll the felt snake around itself. Keep the bottom edge aligned as you roll it around and around. The very centre of your circle will become the outside petals of the rose. They should splay out a little.

Thread your needle and secure the ends with hand-stitching. You could use a glue gun here if you preferred.

Ta Dah! A finished rose.

I made two more roses using the same method and then glued them onto a leaf shaped piece of teal felt. I then glued (you can also stitch) a brooch pin onto the back to finish my project.

I’ve also made this pink set as a small posy for a vase. This time I started with two circles of felt, both abt 20cm diameter. I cut and rolled the two tones of pink together to give the finished rose a bit more depth and interest.

Sarah has also recently made Mums Take Five (Wednesday’s #stepintospring spring flower craft), a fantastic new Cityscape Skirt to wear for Spring and has posted a tutorial on how to add simple appliqué shapes onto clothing.

Sarah Caporn is the hands behind handmade business Hunting for Ladybugs. Sarah has an adorable patch of cyberspace that is all about her love of sewing. As well as taking custom orders, she adores teaching people to sew and has developed a range of ‘Sew Your Own’ project kits to do just that. They include everything you’ll need to get stitching with loads of online support along the way via her Helpdesk group on Facebook.

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Step into spring with this easy do-it-yourself springtime centrepiece from Sheridan Anne, isn’t it just gorgeous! Celebrating the arrival of spring all week on the blog. Featuring some great “step into spring” tips to ease you into the new season, with favourites from Money Mummy, Mums Take Five, Sheridan Anne, and Hunting For Lady Bugs.You’ll surely be inspired to put a little spring into your step! Join us, and tweet your favourite spring themed posts using #stepintospring.