Cough Remedies


Winter has been long and full of colds. Boosting the immune system is the best (and only) defence for many common viruses. We now know that over-the-counter decongestants can be harmful. We know that antibiotics are over prescribed and useless against viral infections. This means we keep an array of remedies to soothe symptoms. 

We soothe coughs around here using:

• honey, lemon and ginger tea
• elderberry syrup (Suro) 
• vapour rub (Kayala) 
• diffusing oils such as eucalyptus and wintergreen 

These remedies are effective at soothing irritated throats and contain anti-inflammatory properties. Nature is full of powerful active ingredients. I'm always on the look out for companies that harvest and create medicinal products sustainably, because we want these treatments available well into the future. 

Luckily, 8 years into parenting and we haven't had to use antibiotics yet. Here is hoping for strong immune systems for life!! 


Mei Tai Review





Our Mei Tai carrier was the best baby gift we received. It folds easily and packs into a bag for convenience. It is washable. It is all you need to bring on a walk. We have taken it on family vacation to California, on road trips, on walks near the cottage, we use it in museums and most of all, at home. Baby wearing is simple and enjoyable with Mei Tai. 

Recycled Crayon Valentines


Use up broken crayons lying around! 

These Valentines are easy to make (ask my 7 year old), have a function (colouring) and are made from old broken crayons (no need to buy supplies). 

The longest part is peeling all of the paper off the crayons. 

We found a silicon baking tray with heart shaped cups and filled them half full with broken crayons. Place the tray in the oven at 200•c until melted (8 mins for us). Remove and let cool until hard. 

They were a hit at dd2's preschool! Idea inspired by the awesome activity book for kids, Boredom Busters by Caroline Fernandez.

 

Ladybugs


Every winter, ladybugs move into the house. There haven't been many this year, and dd1 wanted to help this lonely survivor. In our house, a bug is prey for 3 cats. Can this be classified as conservation? 

Ecophobia



Environmental issues and disasters are constantly making headlines. The media's fascination with a global doomsday, and a lack of attention around positive changes can cause fear in children known as ecophobia. 

Children who feel hopeless and fearful about the environment are going to have a hard time connecting.

While I think it is important to recognize the problems that we face such as climate change and pollution, even more pressing is enabling children and youth to correct these issues. One of the best methods for fostering a caring attitude toward the environment is to have children get out into nature.

Studies have shown that children learn stewardship through various experiences. A healthy environmental interest can be developed through classroom learning, reading books, and watching education shows. However, a better understanding comes from outdoor experiences which allow for hands-on-learning. Planting a tree, catching a bug to study, looking up at the stars through a telescope, and cleaning up a shoreline are all great activities for building a relationship with the world around.

Let's emphasize activity ideas which get kids out in nature, interacting and having fun!

Michelle