Thursday 28 May 2015

Feature Wednesday 'Toddler-Proof Painted T-Shirts'

Congratulations!
This week's winner is Jamie over at 'Hands On As We Go' with her fantastic D.I.Y 'Toddler-proof painted t-shirts' keepsake (craft or gift) tutorial post. This creative & colourful activity is full of fun! What's better than wearing your own unique designs?! This would be a great keepsake for Father's day that is coming up!

The children will 
learn how objects create different patterns and textures. This activity can be enjoyed by anyone ... T-shirt party anyone?! This is an exciting and relaxing activity for the children who can focus on their (craft/gift) and put their best effort into it. 

For the full post & tutorial to make your own 'Toddler-Proof Painted T-Shirts,please click HERE. 

Wednesday 27 May 2015

Week #13 'Feature Wednesday'



#Week13 of 'Feature Wednesday' has arrived!

If you have a post you would like to share live on 'Mama Bee Simple', simply add your link at the end of this post. I have selected a small group of topics to cover this week's linky party.

I do like to create a theme each week however any links related to activities, food, lifestyle & children is fine.

#Week13 Theme: #Health #Family #Sport #Active #Hobbies

The most suited link will be chosen by the end of the day and I will feature your post at 'Mama Bee Simple' as well as all my social network sites.
Mama Bee knows that you all have some wonderful creations and spend so much time wanting to share so here is a lovely opportunity!
Mama Bee Simple


Please share my new 'Grab Button'!

Saturday 23 May 2015

Vita Coco 'Organic Coconut Oil'


This month Mama Bee has been 'coconut mad' learning the uses and benefits of the mighty coconut. The sweet, inviting smell is enough to tempt me but I must admit I didn't really understand how this 'super food' could be so good for us inside and out.


The perfect oil?

There are many natural oils out there and with so much choice that can be really confusing. We like to keep frugal and organised whilst understanding what we really use on a daily basis. I think what we have to learn is what natural oils truly do for us. You might already have your 'perfect oil' that you are really happy with providing great results but is it a versatile oil? Does it have the same benefits as coconut oil?  The real question is 'What does Coconut oil do for me?' Recently I watched a documentary about eating fat in our diet and how we simply cannot ignore the fact our body needs the 'good fats'. Nuts, oily/fatty fish, olive oil, avocado and many more. I have now understood the importance of eating this food group into my everyday lifestyle and the energy boost really helps. (My skin has improved, hair and nails as well as my mood and energy). Regards to the coconut I didn't truly believe it could be the ultimate food and beauty source we need for everyday life.
Recently sampling food's containing coconut water as the main ingredient (producing non dairy products), I have been keen to understand the coconut oil and it's benefits. Life-changing.

Oil's are everywhere... expensive too... so which one?

More and more of us are realising that natural oils are important and kind to our well-being. Women can now make their own D.I.Y beauty products for themselves or even gifts. We are not being frowned upon as we realise they are better for us than the commercial & expensive alternatives. They don't contain potential harmful chemicals and are completely natural which is now a common thing we look for on product labels. Common problems such as dry skin, dull hair, tough nails, chapped lips etc can be helped with natural oils. Some people prefer to use coconut oil in the kitchen as it can tolerate high heat without loosing it's vital properties as well as having lower calories! Many 'good' oils like argan oil, avocado oil, olive oil, rosehip seed oil, are what people use but really isn't it better to have one that does the lot? 


 Vita Coco - 'Organic Cold-pressed Coconut Oil'

In order to fully understand the benefits and uses of coconut oil, Vita Coco have sent me a jar of their own. I was so excited to finally experience what coconut oil does for me and my body. As soon as I opened the glass jar the smell hit me. Instantly I thought I was walking alongside a tropical island on a sunny day. It might sound like I've got insane but I can assure you it's true! This oil can be used for eating, cooking or a part of your beauty regime!
Coconut oil sets at room temperature so don't pour any of this stuff down your drain! 

I scooped out a little of the oil where it started to melt from the heat of my hands. I rubbed my hands together for the oil to warm through and then applied on my arms. Immediately I noticed how much thinner and pleasant this oil was compared to my heavier/greasier oils. After about 3 minutes the oil soaked into my skin that left me glowing and smelling amazing. 
Next I decided to apply the oil on my face - scrubbed and cleansed beforehand. I rubbed the oil along my cheeks and nose, then spread onto the rest of my face. The sensation was lovely and left me with a healthy looking glow. 10 minutes later (oil nicely sunk through) I decided to do my usual make up routine. My make up lasted all day!
Converted and coconut mad, I began using the oil in my hair which has made it look so much healthier and nourished!
I wanted to start using this oil in the kitchen so I decided to mix a little coconut oil with my peanut butter (100% peanut butter) as a spread - again (Amazing!)

You can buy your own 'vita coco coconut oil' by clicking here

Overall I believe Vita Coco provide an affordable, high quality coconut oil which we all need in our cupboard. Coconut oil is truly so versatile I cannot stress enough how useful it really is. Value for money considering it is a widely used ingredient throughout the day. Please try Vita Coco for yourself... you will be pleasantly surprised!




Leon enjoying his 'Vita Coco' Coconut water Juice drink


Friday 22 May 2015

#Week12 'All Season Hand & Fingerprint Tree'

Thank you for everyone that got involved in #Week 12's 'Feature Wednesday' Link Party. 

You all have wonderful & inspirational ideas - it's so great to see your sharing them.

DIY All Season Hand and Fingerprint Tree
Congratulations!
This week's winner is Nell over at 'Rhythms of Play' with her beautiful D.I.Y 'All Season Hand & Fingerprint Tree' keepsake (craft or gift) tutorial post. This fantastic & simple activity is full of colour and fun! The children will learn different colour pallets throughout the year, understand how seasons change as well as practise their art skills. I would say this is a relaxing activity for the children to really focus on their (craft/gift) and put their best effort into it. (Mum's join in or simply sit back and relax!)

DIY All Season Hand and Fingerprint Tree

Nell makes sure she provides full of inspirational ideas to her readers by 
sharing, teaching and inspiring others. 
To learn how to make your own 'All Season Hand & Fingerprint Tree,please click HERE. 

Tuesday 19 May 2015

Week #12 'Feature Wednesday'



#Week12 of 'Feature Wednesday' has arrived!

If you have a post you would like to share live on 'Mama Bee Simple', simply add your link at the end of this post. I have selected a small group of topics to cover this week's linky party.

I do like to create a theme each week however any links related to activities, food, lifestyle & children is fine.

#Week12 Theme: #Explore #Fun #Worksheets #Home School #Learning

The most suited link will be chosen by the end of the day and I will feature your post at 'Mama Bee Simple' as well as all my social network sites.
Mama Bee knows that you all have some wonderful creations and spend so much time wanting to share so here is a lovely opportunity!

Wednesday 13 May 2015

The Coconut Collaborative


Founded by the creator of Gu puddings and a nutritionist, say hello to 'The Coconut Collaborative'.
Made from the milk of coconut, this dairy, soya and gluten free tempting yoghurt is a luscious alternative. 'The Coconut Collaborative' have a mission to teach and spread the 'coco-love'. Determined to give something back to the planet and it's people, they are planting coconut trees, helping farmers and supporting charities. 

The mighty coconut has plenty of properties and 'good fats' that 'The Coconut Collaborative' can't get enough of. Whether your a yoghurt lover or a frozen yoghurt indulger, ('Snowconut') this creamy Summery dessert is a great substitute without feeling the guilt.

Let's follow the 'coco-love' mission on Facebook and Twitter.

Natural
'Natural'

Bursting with antioxidants and vitamins, this silky-smooth yoghurt surrounded by a beautifully illustrated fact card , I had to try it.
A refreshing burst of coconut milk and a memorable creamy texture.

Mango & Passion Fruit



'Mango & Passion fruit'

Juicy tropical mango, passion fruit compote combined with delicious coconut yoghurt. Heaven.
The passion fruit compote really made this a tropical treat!
You can view the full yoghurt range here.

Chocolate Snowconut


'Chocolate Snowconut'

Creamy chocolate frozen yoghurt alternative -  bursting with life-giving goodness. Surely that's a temptation in itself! I tried this on a beautiful sunny day and my... I'm going coco-mad. A delicious dessert for everyone to enjoy.

Raspberry Snowconut

'Raspberry Snowconut'

Filled with antioxidants, minerals and vitamins. Who knew a delicious dessert would be super good for us? Frozen coconut yoghurt and a tang of raspberries. Superb!

Full frozen range can be seen here.

Let's follow the 'coco-love' mission on FacebookTwitter.

Saturday 9 May 2015

'Keeping Busy' Free Printables



Are your children quick learners? Have they already mastered 'new' words? Running out of ideas?


This week Leon and I have been doing plenty of 'quiet time' activities focusing on colours, shapes and new words. From covering a variety of new foods and mastering drawing circles,  I'm amazed to see him learn so quickly and remember almost everything. We have most definitely been 'keeping busy'.
If your children are quick learners and want to know more, I have created a lovely 'free printable' collection from talented and passionate bloggers. There are plenty of useful 'printables' on the internet, however I have short listed a few favourites that will be around for some time - these will provide fun packed games and 'busy' play.

Top 5 'Keeping Busy' Printables:

1. 'Alphabet Flash Cards' by 'Mr Printables'
Teaches - Alphabet/Objects

These free flash cards are a fantastic 'keeping busy' activity that can be reused time and time again (Preferably laminated!) You can also download different versions (with or without words). Highly recommend!

2. 'Pretend Play Shopping Lists' by 'Blooming Brilliant 123'.
Teaches - Role-Play / Food

These free printable Pretend Play Shopping Lists are a brilliant 'keeping busy' activity. If you have pretend food, a shopping basket and a lover of 'role-play' games, then visit 'Blooming Brilliant 123' to download.

3. 'Missing Number Clip Cards' by 'Life of C's'

Teaches - Maths skills

This free printable is fantastic if your children are already learning numbers. Numbers can get boring to learn but this activity provides plenty of fun. Simple to prep, these cards let you use pegs and show images help understand how numbers work. Really recommend for a reusable 'maths' game.

4.
'Transportation Preschool Pack' by 'Homeschool Creations'
Teaches - Colouring by number, shadow matching, tracing, letter sounds and different sizes.~

I'm really impressed with this free printable pack. Homeschool Creations have created a perfect 'keeping busy' activity for children who love to trace, colour in and learn.

5. 'Play Tickets' by 'Gingham Cherry'

Teaches - Role-Play

'So much fun for something so simple'. What a lovely free printable by Gingham Cherry, free printable 'play tickets'. Great for children who love role-play. Train tickets? Cinema tickets? Can be used for plenty of play! (laminated will protect these for further use!)

Here is my collection of 'Keeping Busy' free printables. Please follow all of these great bloggers for more content!



Friday 8 May 2015

#Week11 'Feature Wednesday' Introduction to Botany

Introduction to Montessori Botany

Thank you for everyone that got involved in yesterday's #Week11 'Feature Wednesday' Link Party. 

You all have wonderful & inspirational ideas - it's so great to see your sharing them.

Congratulations!
This week's winner is Jennifer over at 'Study At Home Mama' with her 'Introduction to Botany' post. With hundreds of tulip bulbs growing around Jennifer's house, Spring is surely a beautiful time. These colourful blooms are a perfect way to explore and learn how nature works.
The Montessori approach to Botany embraces almost every subject. Science, language, maths, art and sensorial work.  

Jennifer supports families, teachers and caregiver's with inspiring activities and information - often using the Montesorri Twist). Children learn to share, explore and and discover all new things. If you are unsure what Montesorri is please click
here.
To read Jennifer's post on 'Introduction to Botany,please click HERE. 

Wednesday 6 May 2015

#Week 11 'Feature Wednesday'



#Week11 of 'Feature Wednesday' has arrived. Thank you for everyone who entered last week's feature post.

If you have a post you would like to share live on 'Mama Bee Simple', simply add your link at the end of this post. I have selected a small group of topics to cover this week's linky party.

I do like to create a theme each week however any links related to activities, food, lifestyle & children is fine.

#Week11 Theme: #Healthy #Explore #Family #Food #Weaning #Recipes

The most suited link will be chosen by the end of the day and I will feature your post at 'Mama Bee Simple' as well as all my social network sites.
Mama Bee knows that you all have some wonderful creations and spend so much time wanting to share so here is a lovely opportunity!

Sunday 3 May 2015

Nature Sun-catcher

A cold, rainy and miserable day... we needed to brighten up the day with a fun & busy craft. Inspired by The Artful Parent, '3D Nature Suncatchers' , we decided to make our own version. 

For this activity we used the wonderful thick card from Paper Cutz - Perfect for this project as the card is very durable and can be used for endless projects using all sorts of media. Using a craft knife I prepped Leon's sun-catcher by carving out the middle section. I then added sticky tape on one side (in rows) for the flowers to stick to. The next step was quite eventful... as it was heavy rain outside I decided to run outside and grab some of the 'Forget me nots' (closest to the door of course) with some leaves from the lemon tree. I placed these in a plastic bowl for Leon so use later.

Scroll down for instructions!
 

First step - Prep the table!  ~ Painting with a little one can be very messy so using a protective sheet on your table is vital! I placed two oil colours for Leon (I watch that he won't eat it!) and his paintbrushes along with the card and flowers.

Create! - Leon got stuck in! He loved using his paintbrushes and sponges to paint the border. Looking at the flowers and arranging them onto the suncatcher was a unique experience for him and I could tell this was brightening up our day. (This activity lasted over an hour!) Once Leon had finished I made sure everything was stuck together and waited for the paint to dry. Finally I sealed the sun-catcher with more tape - in rows. Ta-Da! A 'Nature Sun-catcher'. Place in front of a window or simply place on the shelf, a lovely craft for anyone on those 'rainy days'.


Saturday 2 May 2015

'Little World's Role-Play Mat


This week, Leon has been engaging more with his 'Playmobil' & Lego figurines. His favourite 'role-play' was getting the children to go down the slide. "Park","Weeeeeeee!","Slide!".
Going through my sewing room, I went through my scrap fabric (perfect to be used as sand, water and roads'. My friend Ann from 'Little Worlds' has passion for imaginative and creative play. Mum of two, she designs and creates handmade play mat's and items for figurines. Ann loves to create 'real scenes' using stones, leaves and other objects. Inspired by 'Little Worlds' explaining the importance of role-play, I figured that Leon needed a scene for himself and let his imagination go wild.

Please visit Ann's 'Little Worlds' Etsy Shop for plenty of 'small world' play toys & gifts.


Different fabric ideas from my sewing box.
Using a rotary cutter helped achieve a clean cut for the 'seaside'.