Mama Bee Simple

2025-03-07T20:04:00.003+00:00

Returning to Blogging in 2025?

Do people really read blogs anymore or is it simply sign in on socials and scroll? Probably distracted by the Justin Baldoni and Blake Lively drama? - Yes I'm hooked on that story with the popcorn at the ready ;)

It is safe to say that MamaBeeSimple has been offline for a few years.
What happened?

Well having just returned back to the UK after living in New Zealand for nearly 10 years is one of the reasons I lost touch with blogging. Living in beautiful Marlborough and also living in Wellington, it was a real experience as soon as we got off that plane for our new lives.

SO much to talk about.
Any questions? Comment below and I am more than happy to explain.

Christmas Giveaway!

2016-11-15T07:30:00.001+00:00

New Product!

2016-11-14T06:21:00.003+00:00

#Excited #MamaBeeSimple #Handmade #NewZealand

Coconut Oil Beauty Recipes: Products You'll Want To Eat

2016-09-21T02:29:00.001+01:00

Coconut Oil - This tropical oil has become widely talked about the past few years. The versatility and health benefits of coconut oil are endless. The popularity has probably risen due to the low cost and it's endless uses.

Many people want a reliable and versatile product they can trust, (of course) but did you know that Coconut Oil has got hundreds of different uses? From cleaning the home to cooking and using in you skincare? There would be an endless list of what coconut oil can be used for.

When I started using Coconut Oil (2 years ago) I can honestly say I was blown away by the results as well as my savings. I'm currently using it during my pregnancy to help with stretch marks, it's fantastic! I have also been eliminating harsh chemicals (daily) and saved money from costly moisturisers and makeup removers. Who doesn't want that?
I have set up a list for you to browse, learn & enjoy some D.I.Y Coconut Oil beauty recipes, so good in fact you'll want to eat them! NOM!

D.I.Y Cranberry Coconut Lip Gloss & Cheek Stain Hello Glow have shared an incredibly easy & beautiful DIY lip gloss and cheek stain. Maybe your looking for some cute gifts to make? Or trying out new ways to make yourself something healthy & safe to use. It looks so delicious, what product do you know is safe to eat? Full printable instructions are in the link

Lemon and Coconut Oil Sugar Scrub Who doesn't want a fresh, zesty sugar scrub to wake you up in the morning? Chic California have shared a genius and simple recipe for you to make for yourself or as cute gifts!

D.I.Y Coffee Scrub for Glowing Skin For me, nothing beats the smell of fresh coffee. There is something about coffee that just makes me feel warm and good. Having found this coconut oil & coffee scrub and learning it's benefits has made this the ultimate skincare D.I.Y!

Whipped Chocolate Body Butter The Coconut Mama has shared an all natural, velvety chocolate body butter - you can actually eat! Although not recommended, there is no harm licking it off your finger! Yum!

D.I.Y Orange Body Butter A fresh & energising shaving foam or moisturiser you can make from home, delicious! And only 4 ingredients...

Edible Brown Sugar Lip Scrub With Honey & Coconut Wow, how great does this look? What another lovely gift idea, get's rid of dead skin on your lips and moisturises at the same time with honey... delicious!

DIY Oatmeal Brown Sugar Scrub Leaves your skin feeling super soft & it's great for sensitive skin too. The oatmeal makes it look so tasty!

2016-06-23T03:04:00.003+01:00

Cooking is a life-skill. We benefit so much from cooking such as embracing culture, learning where our food comes from and understanding what ingredients work together.

When it comes to introducing basic cooking skills to a toddler, it is important to let them be creative. A messy kitchen and dirty bowls are certain but by letting your toddler use their instinct and creativity skills, this will lead to a confident and happy cook. Cooking is fun and a great way to relax. There are thousands of recipes out there you can use - no matter what age you are! Let's start with the basics:

Tools: Bowl & Spoon

Placing essential tools used in the kitchen is a fantastic way for your toddler to identify what is used for basic cooking and preparing. The most practical ones such as a bowl & spoon is a great way to start. Watch what they do with it and explain what it is used for. This should already be a useful starting point for a little helper in the kitchen. (The mixer of course!)
Add some flour and water in the bowl for some playtime fun!

Techniques: Rolling, whisking, kneading, sifting
After showing your toddler certain tools used in the kitchen it's on with the techniques. 'Roll those sleeves up!' . The rolling pin is a fantastic tool to roll and create, how about some basic biscuits or rolling out some dough?

How about the whisk? Whisking can be great fun and it's actually very energetic. You can be brave and let your child crack an egg in the bowl or use some regular milk and make some bubbles. Whisk away!

Kneading dough is a great task for a child loves that play-doh feeling. Just pull and fold or roll the dough around , I'm sure they will create an 'original' loaf! If you cook your child's creations they will be over the moon.

Using a sieve is another tool that your child is bound to love using. Watching flour go into the bowl in a soft and fluffy texture is going to get messy but teaching various techniques in baking and cooking will ensure a happy & confident cook!

Teaching Safety: Hot! Sharp! Raw!

Of course the kitchen can be dangerous too. Big ovens with buttons, gas hobs and knives left, right and centre. My son loves to come in the kitchen and touch everything so I have to explain there are certain things that grown-ups must use instead on him.

If your child want's to cook all the time, maybe placing red stickers on dangerous tools or objects is a way of telling them it's dangerous, 'adult's only'. You will find a way, but don't scare them away from the kitchen.

bon appetit

Stock source: pixapay.com

Fresh Autumn Morning

2016-06-05T01:07:00.001+01:00

Hunting Leaves

Today, Leon & I decided to get our wellies on and go for a walk out in the fresh autumn air. Yes I know, all of you back at home enjoying the summer sun - don't rub it in!

We decided to find some strange and colourful looking leaves, all shapes and sizes. Leon really was determined to find the biggest leaf and the dragon red colour leaf. We ran through piles of leaves, we threw them in the air and even tried to pick some off the trees. We came home with plenty to show off to daddy and turned our leaves into a fun craft consisting a large tub of 'gloopy glue' and a pretty sheet of pattern paper. 'Ta Da'

Awakening Brilliance For Your Child

2016-03-07T00:22:00.002+00:00

Awakening Brilliance For Your Child

All parents want their kids to succeed in life, and be the best they could possibly be by reaching their full potential. By putting in a bit of effort, parents can help their kids achieve this goal. However, they must always keep in mind that their kids have to do all the heavy lifting, while they are there only to guide, and support them. With an approach like that, you will have a healthy attitude in each activity, while you continue your pursuit of awakening brilliance in your child.

Refine Each Learning Method

Regardless of your child’s preferences, and personality, encourage them to adopt all three learning methods – visual, auditory, and kinesthetic. Use creative arts and crafts projects, pictures, and vivid colors to help your child visualize a solution. For their listening learning style, let them listen to the music, and speak the material out loud, maybe even through song. And where there is song, and music, there is dance, to help them learn through movement.

Read to Your Child

From an early age, incorporate reading into your child’s life. Not only does reading target developing language, and verbal skills, but it also can challenge kids’ cognitive resources. Reading great books for children that are interesting to them, engages their creativity and imagination through visualization. Kids start drawing inspiration from stories, which can help them create stories of their own, but also find ingenious ways of resolving daily problems they face.

Play to Learn

Use fun, and familiar activities to target tough subjects, and weaker areas of development. Toys can be a great visual stimulation during learning, as they are close to kids, and can motivate them to learn. And since kids learn most about the world around them through play, incorporate games into their curriculum. To help them tackle tougher subject matter like mathematics, introduce kids to interactive online math games, or use cross-word puzzles to make learning language fun.

Promote a Healthy Lifestyle

Because a healthy mind requires a healthy body, encourage your kids to take up a exercise. Physical activity is not only responsible for muscle development, but it also improves oxygen intake. Oxygen is vital for healthy brain development, allowing cells to regenerate quicker, and establish better connections. Incorporate morning exercises, and walking into their daily routine. And as for sports consider encouraging them to take up swimming, as it incorporates all muscle groups, expands lung capacity, and helps with blood flow.

Give Them Brain Food

Provide a nutritional, healthy, and diverse diet to improve cognitive growth in your child. Kids need to have properly divided meals, making sure that they eat a healthy breakfast. A rich protein diet that includes fresh meat, dairy products, fruits, and vegetables, can helps kids gain brain mass, and develop healthy synaptic connections. While including fish, nuts, and eggs boosts their Omega-3 essential fats intake, which advance their concentration levels, and help with logical thinking.

Allow Time to Rest

Because each developmental stage has specific sleep requirements, parents need to provide their kids with enough time to rest. A child’s brain needs sleep to be able to recharge, process, and store all the information accumulated during the day. To ensure they always sleep well, use the time right before bed time to focus on successful daily achievements, and transfer positive emotions through touch. This creates a sense of comfort, allowing them to have good dreams that spark imagination.

Finally, when it comes to your child’s brilliance, you need to be supportive, and dedicate yourself to them. Providing them with a positive, and loving environment and boost their self-confidence, allowing them to focus their energy elsewhere. Once they realize this, they will seek out new challenges to improve their intellect, and all that with the help of your guidance.

All images found on: pixabay.com

Author BIO:

Sophia Smith is a freelance writer from Brisbane, Australia with huge interest in beauty and healthy living. She could be described as beauty addict and life lover. She writes mostly in beauty and lifestyle related topics, mainly through blogs and articles. Sophia is regular contributor at High Style Life.

Find her on: Facebook Twitter Google +

2015-09-05T20:40:00.002+01:00

Upcoming Project

2015-09-04T07:14:00.002+01:00

'Wellies Finest' promotes a range of gourmet NZ local products containing healthy, nutritious & organic ingredients. Perfect for families, foodies & the curious all in a gift-box!

Stay tuned...

http://facebook.com/welliesfinest

How To Revitalise Your 'Super Parent' Energy

2015-07-25T22:30:00.001+01:00

All Parent's know that a child wants attention - a lot of it! Whether it's playing a game, lunch time, going out. You are there, always there and in reality you feel like 'Super Mum' or 'Super Dad'.

How are they still running about? I'm knackered!" You always try 110%. You are likely yawning before your children and you still haven't had your time yet. So what do you do?
Time management. Break down your day and see exactly what need's to be eliminated and put right to focus and balance your schedule. Children want to play? Fine. You want a few minutes to yourself? Fine. You have an important task to do? Fine. There is nothing wrong with being selfish and frankly you deserve to have your own time.

How our bodies cope with this 'Super Parent' Energy is something we are probably overwhelmed with. How are we so strong in dealing with everyday life tasks? How do parents find the time with 1, 2 or 3+ children? You should deserve a medal, even own a trophy cabinet. Nope, it's probably snot on your favourite clothing and dirty dishes at the end of the day. But, you smile. Let's not be hard on ourselves, we love it. I know I do.

One of my big stresses is time. Not enough time of the day (and it kills me). I want to give attention to my family, myself and not to mention my friends and family. Unexpected appointments can become a big event and cause stress you do not need. Simple solution. Write it down and manage your time.

Your children notice your energy - so if you give too much of it maybe lay back. Let them use their own energy - sit back and relax!

Don't be afraid to say no.

You've woken up, the children are asking for breakfast and the phone rings. Everything is going on again but you answer and it's a friend you haven't seen in a long time. She is asking to see you today (even though it's short notice they are desperate to visit). What do you do? Your instinct is to respond with a firm "Yes! Of course!" but in reality, you regret it. I have learnt over time that saying no can save a lot of time and stress to focus on other things you had to do that day (even if it's a rest day!). Time is ticking and you don't want to spend all of your energy starting a new task. - The unexpected task. These sort of things should be filled in when your diary has a blank space. (Maybe you've left it empty to have "your time" or to catch up with friends but this is probably the best way to tell your friend that you have free time another day. (even if you are also desperate to see them). They will understand.

If your day really has been overwhelming and non-stop. One simple & effective solution to calm and relax (even if it's a minute) is to just breathe... Inhale and exhale. A deep breath can be a quick fix to relax and unwind. Remind yourself your a strong person and your 'Super Parent' energy is ready for a recharge for the next day! You can do it!

Question & Answer.
How do you deal with time management?

D.I.Y 'Seaside' Gloop

2015-07-23T03:38:00.002+01:00

D.I.Y 'Seaside' Gloop

This week, Leon and I have been exploring the seaside life here in NZ. Not long ago, Leon managed to find a lovely collection of sea shells and stones amongst other quirky and curious items. Since that day, we have been going through them all , discovering the different patterns, textures and colours shells have.

I decided we could take things to the next level and use play-dough to explore patterns and shapes. I have the most simple and safe recipe for your little ones to play with this 'gloop' textured play-dough. There are plenty of ways to making play-dough however we went for our 'seaside' gloop and it is still being used a week later! Success!

All you need is four basic ingredients from your store cupboard and mix it well to combine a dough-like texture - as if you were making a pizza dough!

1. Flour (2 cups) plus more for kneading
2. Oil (I used olive) but any kind will do (about 1 cup)
3. Water ( half a cup) to combine.
4. Food Colouring of your choice (We used blue).

That's it! Too wet? Add more flour. Too dry? Add more water and oil.

This 'seaside' gloop was so great to play with! It is stretchy... it is squeezable and so much fun adding shells to! When Leon was finished I reused a plastic tub and stored the gloop into the fridge. The next day it seemed even better to play with!
Enjoy

Amazon.co.uk Widgets

5 Useful 'Moving House' Tips with Toddlers

2015-07-16T06:57:00.000+01:00

5 Useful Tips when Moving House with a Toddler. (& with little resources)

Moving House? Stressed? Active children?

I have written some useful tips when moving house. In my case, the other side of the world with a 2 year old. It's been 3 weeks to this day we have moved from the UK to NZ and with an empty shell & suitcases to begin with, it can be difficult to improvise!

Learning that just a couple of boxes, laughs, songs, outdoor exploring and a little imagination can go a long way - without the expense.

Moving house is known as one of life's big stresses (but it doesn't have to be).

From changing schools, moving away from family, changing direct debits and sorting out a whole new life - with children is a big task. Not to mention new jobs, and a whole new routine.

Try making the move exciting, new and enjoyable:

Out with the old, in with the new

Packing boxes can be fun when going through everything your have. Children love to help and get involved (even just by watching what you are up to). Explain why you have big boxes and that you need help sorting an clearing. Throwing away old toys are a great way to explain how your little one is growing up and moving on to 'bigger toys'. Going through old toys can also be hard especially if you have some lovely memories of them. Throwing away belongings is never easy but a clear out is essential (in our case anyway!). Ask your little one which one they remember the most and let them put it in their 'keepsake' box.

Ask for help
Family nearby? Need to sort out something important? Need time-out?
Just Ask. Even if it's an hour or two.

If it wasn't for an extra pair of hands then yes it would have taken longer to manage our move. Luckily we had family close by to take our son to the park- whilst going through the important stuff. Phone calls, paperwork, sorting out our finances etc. When you need full attention on something you can't have distractions so a little help is appreciated in order for the move to go smoothly. (Plus the children love playing with Nanny & Grandad!)

Day before the Move

(Make a to-do list). List's are very important to keep yourself prepared for the big day. For example your first shopping list. (This can be quite long and stressful so make sure you write everything you need!).

Again, ask your little one to help you around the isle or simply pop them in the trolley with the big shopping list (they love it!) Your house looks so much bigger than you expected, the fridge is nearly empty and everybody is excited and nervous. Your boxes might not arrive until a later date so make sure you pack your essentials for the first day/week! Oh, and don't forget to have a bottle of bubbly with your loved one to celebrate...

Moving Day
Moving Day, everyone is rushing and you have a dirty nappy to change. Take is easy, it will go smoothly.

Pack a packed lunch - you might not have your pots and pans arrive yet so make plenty of everyone's favourite sandwiches!

Some Key Essentials:

1. Pen & Paper - You will always need one handy for something!

2. Toiletries

3. Toilet Paper - always!

4. Basic food (milk, pasta, rice, bread etc).
5. Toy's for your little ones - pens, films, blocks, puzzles etc.

First Night

Your in. New home, fresh start and a totally new routine. You've made your first shop and the house is really bare. Take it step by step and soon it will become your 'home sweet home'.
If your child is bored or touching things they shouldn't, use empty boxes to make houses or roads for cars. So much can be done even with washing pegs or a simple pen & paper can keep them entertained. Your happy, it's gone better than you expected yet still plenty to do.

Don't forget, children adapt easily to new surroundings so that's one less stress to worry about.

Now open that bubbly!

Here in NZ, it was a big move for us. (A 30 hour journey just flying and walking through airports). - Preparation and concentration makes everything go smoothly. Bring the milk bottles, that favourite toy and plenty of little games you can pack easily.

For you and your partner just keep writing top - do lists and the top essential jobs to settle your first week.
New nursery, sign up to doctors, change address, set up your insurances/phone/etc. You will be done in a flash and the routine will follow.

Enjoy your new home!

Luxurious CoYo Yoghurt

2015-06-14T13:44:00.000+01:00

A gift from the 'Tree of Life'

Mama Bee has been following the coconut journey for over a month now. More and more research show that this 'superfood' has an endless list of healing power. From the hydrating coconut water to the 'MCFA's' coconut oil containing healthy saturated fat. Researching the nutrition, it's uses and overall benefits - I can confirm I'm coconut mad!

Dairy Free, Gluten Free, Nut free, Soya Free, Egg free.

'Freshly squeezed cream from the flesh of the coconut'.
CO YO have sent me their range of vegan yoghurt alternatives. Using freshly squeezed cream from the flesh of the coconut, CO YO have produced a 'Heaven in a mouthful' range with plenty of choices to offer. I will warn you that these pots are high in calories but remember, these are good fats and a brilliant source of energy or as an indulging snack. Already using and eating coconut oil this past month this was so exciting for me to try!

'Raw Chocolate'

The first yoghurt I was keen to try was the tempting 'raw chocolate'! My first impressions was that in comparison to a regular Greek yoghurt, this was a far thicker texture.

Stirring the yoghurt , the coconut blended together to a creamy texture which looked heavenly! I tried the raw chocolate goodness and it was so so delicious. You can really taste the richness and goodness with a lovely chocolate coconut kick. I would recommend this more of a dessert.
Leon loved this yoghurt too!

'Vanilla'
Moving on to trying the other yoghurt's I was really tempted to try the 'Vanilla' version. I can tell these are high quality yoghurt just from seeing the vanilla pod seeds in the pot! What a lovely combination to try coconut and vanilla pairing together for a creamy dessert! I have to say, this was my favourite flavour so far! Not as thick as the raw chocolate and very subtle in flavour so could finish the pot in no trouble at all! (Again high in calories from the natural coconut so don't go overboard!) I can honestly say it was delicious! So excited to find out Ocado stock COYO.

The next day I waited to try the other flavours: Original, Mango and Mixed Berries. I have to say, tasting these were different from yesterday's. The fruit compote layer at the bottom of the pot made the texture of the yoghurt thinner and less rich than the chocolate and vanilla. Best way to describe these yoghurt's were the freshness and fruity flavour , mmm!

Understanding the coconut and it's values I will definitely keep using this 'superfood' with my family and daily lifestyle. COYO have created a wonderful product, dedicating their love for the coconut.

Please visit COYO to find out the entire journey & range!

'Feature Wednesday' Food-Grade Perfume

2015-06-11T19:47:00.001+01:00

Congratulations!

This week's winner is Jennifer over at 'Study At Home Mama' with her fun, sensory activity: 'Make your own perfume' post. Children get to create their own 'formula' and experiment - a great way to keep your child 'busy'.

For the full post of 'Make your own perfume' ,please click HERE.

My 1 month's Hair Journey with Hairburst

2015-06-10T19:13:00.004+01:00

My Hair Journey with Hairburst

1 month's supply

'Grow Healthy, longer hair'

Hairburst, a UK based natural health supplements company have sent Mama Bee Simple their 1 month's supply of their natural hair growth vitamins. Before I carry on I want to assure you that my hair journey is 100% followed by the instructions of the bottle. The bottle contains 60 capsules - 2 capsules per day, promising to give you healthier, longer and stronger hair. Delivered worldwide, it seems that everyone is talking about this product!

I'm excited to find out the results. Of course, patience is required...

I may have long hair, but it's hard to maintain giving me broken ends.

Before you start thinking, but she already has long hair. What is the point? It has taken me YEARS to grow this out. Note: I do NOT straighten my hair any more due to problems of hair breakage in the past. (This has made my hair stronger already). Another problem I suffered for was hair loss during breast feeding (literally bald spots on the front of my hairline). Naturally fine, thin hair I find that it breaks easily, or get's damaged.

Tip: If you want healthy hair, ditch the straighteners and blow dry straight using medium heat and heat protection.

Healthy diet containing plenty of nutritious food's help keep your hair in better condition and overall strength.

So why use Hairburst?

Hairburst use essential vitamins and nutrients that your hair craves for healthy, stronger and longer hair. Preventing a common problem of mine such as hair thinning, these capsules contain 'silica' which is a vital supplement for thin hair. - Restoring vitality and even hair loss!
Biotin improves the levels of keratin in the body leading to hair growth and Hairburst provide a high level for your 'hair boost'. Collagen is a type of protein which acts a barrier to dry and brittle hair. - Vitamin C helps boost the collagen (also included in the formula). BCAA's are a fuel source providing energy for hair cells and skeletal muscles (athletes favourite supplement). MSM (full of essential sulphur) providing a longer growing phase (before resting and shedding) meaning longer, fuller hair.I'm combining my healthy lifestyle with these daily capsules to see a result. So far, so good!

Full list of ingredients and their benefits can be found HERE

Week 1, Day 1 - 64cm

Week 1 - Day 1- 64cm
Week 2 - Day 14 - 64.5cm
Week 4 - Final Day! 66cm

Conclusion:

Using Hairburst on a daily basis throughout the month was a new experience. I learnt that I needed key nutrients for my hair to be healthy and strong. I noticed less hair on my hairbrush that I would usually have whilst brushing my hair. Overall I'm happy with the hair length and noticed my hair grow much quick than usual. (My hairdresser is coming this week to re-colour and she will definitely notice!)
I highly recommend this product if you want healthy, stronger hair. This vitamins contain everything your hair needs for it's full potential. Please let me know how you get on with this product! I would love to hear from you.

You can buy this product HERE.

#Week15 'Feature Wednesday'

2015-06-10T09:17:00.000+01:00

#Week15 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.

#Week15 Theme: #Outdoors #Nature #Play #Fun #Friends #Share

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!

Please share my new 'Grab Button'!

Poached Egg 'Hack'

2015-06-05T06:08:00.001+01:00

Eggs are a staple ingredient in our family and are eaten almost daily. We like them poached, scrambled, boiled, fried and pickled! You try your hardest not to drop an egg and you try your hardest to cook them perfectly...

Who would have thought that watching a morning breakfast show would have changed my 'poached eggs' forever...

Usually these shows have a common family recipe however poached eggs were involved with a very handy tip!

As I watched this demonstration I couldn't believe how simple and easy this 'cheat' was. Poaching egg's the old fashioned way never came out 'perfect'. Usually ending up in stringy pieces, I need to figure out how on earth people could cook a decent poached egg!

Originally this tip claims to be from British chef 'Jamie Oliver' who has mentioned it to his viewers before. I want to share this successful tip to you all and see if you can improve and love your egg's, breakfast, lunch or dinner!

What you will need:
A small bowl
Cling film

Eggs (however many you plan to poach)
Pan of simmering water
TimerOil to grease the clingfilm

Directions:
Firstly you want your pan of water to be 'simmering' and not boiling. Next, tear off enough cling film so that your small bowl is covered (with the edges overlapping). Lightly greasing the cling film, simply crack your egg in the middle of the bowl and pick up each corner of the cling film carefully. You then twist as tightly as your can and leave to one side until you have done the desired amount of eggs.
When your happy your water is at 'simmering stage'. Next pop your eggs into the pan (I use 4 max per pan) and leave to cook. If you like your egg's runny inside then 3 minutes is perfect, and 5 is usually the maximum time. When your happy your egg's are ready, unravel your mini parcel's and serve!
Crack black pepper or tear off some cress for a finishing touch!

If you try this method please get in touch, I would love to see how this works for you and your family!

Feature Wednesday 'Teaching Kids To Count'

2015-06-04T19:36:00.003+01:00

Congratulations!

This week's winner is Sheryl over at 'Teaching 2 to 3 Year Olds' with her playful selection of 'teaching kids to count' post. Children need to engage activities using fun and exciting concepts. We all know each individual child is unique and have their own way of understanding something new. Sheryl has provided wonderful activities for all children to get involved - whatever their level!

For the full post of 'Teaching Kids to Count' ,please click HERE.

Week #14 'Feature Wednesday'

2015-06-03T08:47:00.001+01:00

#Week14 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.

#Week14 Theme: #Dad #Fathersday #DIY #Gift #Family #Love #Craft #Giving

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!

Please share my new 'Grab Button'!

Cardboard Tube Tunnel

2015-06-02T15:15:00.000+01:00

This week has been pretty busy, especially since we have shipped most of Leon's beloved toys to a container for New Zealand! I needed to keep Leon entertained and a basic idea was using a cardboard tube we found at granddad's house.

There are always plenty of recyclable items in our house that I know with a little effort, can be turned into something fun. Cereal boxes, yoghurt pots and even toilet rolls are usually ended up in the rubbish bin waiting to be thrown out. With Leon always looking for something to do or play with, I decided to use the cardboard tube we kept from Granddad. Luckily I have also kept my masking tape (from art school), (great for sticking and removing off objects easily). I simply placed the cardboard tube on the side of my cabinet and secured with masking tape. Leon used his stickers to customise his cardboard tube before using pasta shells and plastic strips (from a different toy) to throw down the tube and catch into the box/pan.

'Phew' , time to start dinner now! (Great frugal/quiet time game whilst you carry on your chores!) Leon loved this and it is still stuck to the cabinet waiting to be used again and again.

Feature Wednesday 'Toddler-Proof Painted T-Shirts'

2015-05-28T20:17:00.001+01:00

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.

Week #13 'Feature Wednesday'

2015-05-27T06:22:00.003+01:00

#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!

Please share my new 'Grab Button'!

Vita Coco 'Organic Coconut Oil'

2015-05-23T15:51:00.002+01:00

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

#Week12 'All Season Hand & Fingerprint Tree'

2015-05-22T07:50:00.001+01:00

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.

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!)

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.

Week #12 'Feature Wednesday'

2015-05-19T19:40:00.001+01:00

#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!