Tag: twins

Categories
6 years and beyond

Having Two Kids Close in Age is Not Like Having Twins

It’s a phrase I dread.

“I have two children who are so close in age it’s like having twins.”

Really? You know what? I reckon having twins is the only thing that is like having twins.

Lately, I’ve had a lot of mothers say that although they don’t have twins, they understand what it is like. Bless you, all but what the?

I am not taking anything away from the hard yakka of having kids whether they are 15 months apart or five years. It’s just that having two children of different ages is not like having twins. Having twins is the only thing like having twins.

The girls at a little over 2 months.
The girls at a little over 2 months.

Like all mums of twins, I had two kids instantly – and I was a first-time mum. I had no choice but to dive in at the deep, deep end. I had to get used to it quickly and woman up. Yes I said woman up.

I carried two bubs for nearly nine months then kapow, out they came. Two babies to breast-feed, two babies to cart everywhere, pack for, strap in the car, unstrap, nappy change, bathe, dress, calm, entertain, fret about. And all when you are one person.

I fed the twins at the same time every three hours or so. I woke up both babies to feed them burped them, change their nappies and then put them back down for naps. I felt like a robot with so little sleep. Most new mums are sleep deprived but make mine a double!

Breastfeeding just one bub at a time? How amazing would that be? I can only dream!

You would not imagine all the things I had to take with me to go to the park, the shops or even just a park visit. It was like I was leaving home every time I packed up the bags. Nappies, wipes, burp clothes, multiple changes of clothes, pram, bottles with breast milk in them, cool bag to keep breast milk okay and more. I felt like a packhorse!

I made sure to only leave the house after a feed and had some milk just in-case one was hungry or I got stuck. Hey, all mums do this but I just needed double of everything!

And even now when they are six and at the same level wrangling two people who want to do everything “now” or worse, yesterday because they do everything on high speed running everywhere, never walking, I wish I had an older child to help me wrangle them to a safe stop. Oh, and my kingdom for some hand-me-downs instead of having to buy two of everything – and often two of the same item but in two different patterns, colours, styles.

Mummy and the girls on the 27th of Sept, 2008. Katoomba Hosp. Julia on left, Lillian on right.
Mummy and the girls on the 27th of Sept, 2008. Katoomba Hosp. Julia on left, Lillian on right.

Mums with kids who are 15 months or say 11 months apart have children very close in age – agreed – but they are not twins!

When you have bubs one at a time you have kids at different stages of development and can leverage that to get things done but also spend special one-on-one time with each of your kids. While one is playing with blocks or napping you can feed bubby and truly be with your baby.

Achieving one-on-one time with the girls has been a challenge. I have listened enviously when other mums talk about having that precious time alone with each of their children when they first came home. Or later when baby number two is asleep so they can play with their toddler or taking toddler to the park when their oldest first goes to school.

I have found ways to get that one-on-one time with each of my girls but it has not been easy. When just one would wake in the night I often thought it was her deliberate way to get special cuddles with mummy. I still do. Hubby and I take a daughter each to different things on the weekend to get that quality alone time but we have to wait until Saturday each week when his work week is at an end.

Julia with daddy. She was 3 months old and we flew to Coffs Harbour to visit her grandparents. Her first plane trip and she does not remember it.
Julia with daddy. She was 3 months old and we flew to Coffs Harbour to visit her grandparents. Her first plane trip and she does not remember it.

Okay, okay so twins is not all pushing a bolder up a hill – or a double stroller through a busy supermarket aisle. There is no playing the noise police to ensure an older child doesn’t wake the baby. Or packing for different ages and stages when you leave the house. Or complaints about those hand-me-downs.

And I do get that siblings who are close in age can share a special bond and even be super close. Great, but they are not twins so quit saying that.

Or am I the only one that feels like this?

Do you have twins? Have you had other parents tell you they have kids that are like twins even though they are not? Do these parents think they understand how hard it was for you early on and when they are older?

 

Mummy with Lillian. We flew to Coffs Harbour when the girls were 3 months old. Lillian’s first trip on a plane and she does not remember.
Mummy with Lillian. We flew to Coffs Harbour when the girls were 3 months old. Lillian’s first trip on a plane and she does not remember.
>

Let us know your thoughts. Why not continue the discussion on our Facebook and Twitter pages.

This post has also been published on Kidspot. Discuss this issue with other parents.

Sign up for my newsletter

Stay current with all the things that are happening on Mummy to Twins Plus One. Don’t miss a thing by signing up for my newsletter. This newsletter will list all giveaways and fabulous things that are happening.

 

 

 

This post has affiliate links

Categories
School

First 3 Days of Grade One

As you know the twins are in different classes for grade 1 and both seemed very happy with this when they left with their new classes, and from my last post you would know it was me that was the most seemed upset about this. I have been questioning why and I believe that I thought the girls would be more emotional by being apart than they were. In reality they were fine.

I was not opposed to separating the kids and believe that this will help in their development and confidence. However due to past behaviour and of course asking the kids what they wanted to do regarding school, I thought being together was the way to go. The girls both told me together and separately that they wished to be in the same class. So I thought that this would be the best way to go.

Last Thursday was the girls second day of school and one kid was very clingy and upset. She did not want me to leave. I stayed for a little bit and tried to remove myself from the classroom with little disruption to my girl and of course the classroom and teacher. My attempts did not work and she was hanging onto me very tightly and like her life depended on it. I was not sure if she was just a little sensitive that day or if she was missing her sister. She seemed okay to be in a class without her twin so I did not bring it up. I did not want to allow her to think that she cannot be in a classroom and develop by herself.

The twins first day of grade 1
The twins first day of grade 1. Wearing their new YUUworld Bags.

When I left the teachers aide said that she could be the class helper. She sat near the teacher and was promised to help. I thought this was great as this was my queue to exit the room and when I looked back she had a smile on her face. My little one does love helping and doing things for the teacher and others.

My other little girl, was busy with her work in her class and did not look bothered. I waved her goodbye and she gave me a wave and a smile. All good I thought.

The girls are in a composite class of kids who are grade 1 and grade 2 students. The teachers and students are all learning about each other and understanding what level each child is at for work and learning names and so on.

The kid who was clingy was very upset on Thursday night and told me that she was not allowed to help in the class, that the older kids got different work and that she was doing Kindy work and it was boring! She told me she wanted to learn everything and do more and that the teacher was not allowing her to look at the bigger kids worksheets.

I sat down and listened to what she was saying and explained the following:

  • The class is made up of kids who are at different levels for work – she is in grade 1 while the other kids are in grade 2. The teacher gave each child different work due to their ability and year. It is not that she might not be able to do it, just due to getting to know students and finding out what kids can and cannot do. I also said that it is only day 2 of school and I am sure things will be harder soon and that she will be challenged by the grade 1 work as well.
  • The teacher is trying to get to know all the kids with some fun games and just because it is easy and similar things that they did last year does not mean that she will not learn new things. From what I understand the teacher is easing the kids into the week to then settle them and then coordinate the work in the weeks to come.
  • I asked her what she was not allowed to help with and she did not say, but said everything. I said maybe there was a valid reason for this. I said, that I am sorry that she did not help and that she was upset.
  • I also learnt that the older kids counted to 100 unassisted and by themselves and the grade 1’s did not. She and her sister can do it and she wanted to show the teacher how clever she was with counting and numbers, but was not given the chance.

I don’t know if I got a straight story about the day but I know the following things, she was upset, she was told she would help and then did not and could not show that she could do higher work like the grade 2’s.

Friday came and this was day 3 of the first week of school. I felt uneasy as I had to go and have a chat with one of my child’s teacher’s and it was only day 3 of the first week. I did not want to be seen as a problem parent or fussy mother, but I thought I should address some of the issues early on. If I left it and it got overlooked due to me not saying anything I would hate myself. I don’t want me not speaking up to be the reason that a child gets frustrated and does not try at school.

  • I told the teacher that I do understand that it is early days and just the first couple of days of school. I know that she is dealing with different levels in the classroom, I do understand that grade 1 kids might not get the grade 2 work and that is fine. However if a grade 1 child is clever and can attempt the grade 2 work why not let them.
  • I asked about the fact that she got upset that she could not help out in class after she was told she could. The teacher did not realise and said that she will make sure she can help next time.
  • I mentioned that my girls are the same age as some of the grade 2 kids due to the fact that they had their birthday at the end of the year so therefore were 5 before they started school. The twins will be turning 7 this year when a majority of grade 1’s are turning 6. Some are like the girls and are turning 7 but they are a year older than their year.
  • Due the kids not being able to be at school when they were 5, both had 2 years at pre-school and now kindy so they are bursting at the seams to learn and do more.
  • I just wanted to address the fact that she is bright, wants to do more and is getting upset that she is seen as a little kid who cannot. The teacher understood and I am hoping that if she does grade 1 work she might get the chance to do grade 2 or at least see it.
  • It is a new class, new teacher, and kids. I told the teacher that I do understand it is early days and it is a big change for the girls.

My immediate thought with the composite class was that they will learn so much. My fear now is that they will be stuck with grade 1 work even if they do well, above and beyond. I hope that they get exposed to more being in a class with grade 2 kids and with more things to learn.

I am worried it will be an impediment and they will get angry if they cannot learn more in this class (If they excel at grade 1 work that is; I would just be happy if they do well with what is offered in grade 1) Has this happened to you?

Our school is great and the teachers are amazing. I have done my part and mentioned how my little girl was feeling and what she is capable of. Let’s just see what happens in term 1. It is all new and a learning curve for the girls. Grade 1 is a big step compared to Kindy.

I must say that the start of grade 1 was more stressful for me than the start of Kindergarten. I was concerned about the kids being split up, the issue with one of the kids being worried and upset, and there is another issue; The school has had more enrollments and there will be another class of kids for grade 1. Gosh, will they split up the kids again?????

I had a word to the principal and mentioned that we are fine with the twins being in different classes, but thought that it might be a drama if they get moved again. I mentioned that if we can, can the kids stay where they are? I do understand if we have to move due to numbers and was told I will be consulted if this would happen (Not sure if it will happen but I have not received a phone call with any updates, so think all is well). I think due to the big change of different classes, and all different ways of doing things, moving kids again might not be a good idea. Have your kids been moved after settling into a classroom and a teacher?

Today is the start of week 2 for school and the kids have now been told of the new class for grade 1. Both kids are telling me they want to move to the new classroom…. oh the joys of grade 1 currently. I believe that it might take a while to adjust to the new way of doing things but all will be fine! It might take a good month to do this but it will happen.

How have your twins handled the start to school? Are they in Kindy, Grade 1 or another grade. Maybe in high school? Do they share a classroom or have they been separated for a while now. Let us know.

 

Categories
School

Grade 1 and Separate Classes

Today is the first day of school and the kids first day in grade 1. Yes my little girls are getting bigger and they are both so pleased to be the bigger kids now in grade 1.

It would have been nicer if the weather was sunny and not overcast with non stop rain but you cannot have everything. The girls were saying that they were hoping it was a good day to play outside but were a bit disappointment due to having to be inside on days like this at school.

In preparation for school starting I purchased new hats, new socks, new shoes (of course they have grown and I had to get bigger shoes) and polo shirts. I was lucky to be given the great YUUWorld Bags for the girls, which the kids were telling all their friends about the new bag and how amazing it is! (Get 10% off your very own YUUworld Bag until 10th of Feb) Did you stock pile supplies in anticipation of school going back? I was lucky to see the shoes that the girls wanted last year in the right size this year and to find two pairs was good work.

firstdayofgrade1I had to wake the kids up as they were so tired from the night before and of course have been sleeping in due to holidays. I really hate waking sleeping children… my instinct is to walk away and to let them sleep, however this will do no good if they need to be at school. Plus leaving them sleep will mean a later start which is not good on the first day and of course possible kids not wanting to go and therefore ruining mummy’s first day off in a while.

Did you have to wake up kids for school today? Or was I the only one?

I got kids up at 7am and I had breakfast ready for them. Weet-Bix is their favourite and they finsihed that off in no time. Then after breakfast I make them get their clothes ready for school before they get into the shower. Having their clothes ready means they are all ready once dry to put on the uniform and be ready to leave.

While the kids were in the shower I made their lunches as we had a late night last night I did not make them like I normally do. All lunches done I packed up their new funky school bags from YUUWorld and we were all ready to drive off to school. It took a bit longer in the fog and the rain but we got there. Pity that the streets were not like last week and I could not find a park (last week the streets were empty and parking was so easy). Park finally sorted, we then walked to school to then find out no one knew where we were supposed to be.

Finally the kids went to their old teacher from last year and classroom and then they came to the hall were all the parents were waiting. Once all kids and teachers were at the hall the children were put into classes. I was thankful that they did the younger kids first and then I could leave the hall.

The first class was called and my girls were not in that one. Must be the next one they will be in. The second one had Lillian in but not Julia. OH NO! Will Julia be okay? Lillian was smiling and I could not see Julia. The class Lillian is in is a mixture of grade 1 kids and grade 2 children. So that is good and I’m pleased for this. I think different levels help learning and inspire the younger ones to do more or get exposed to what the others are doing.

Lillian has a male teacher and one of the parents thinks he might be a temp but I hope not. He seems lovely and I hope he stays. It would be nice to have more male teachers at the school as they seemed to only have one last year and it helps with diversity.

Now Lillian’s class went off and she bent down to kiss and hug Julia. That was nice… I was very pleased to see this.

Julia’s class was called and then they went off to their classroom. Julia has a wonderful teacher also and her class is a mix of grade 1’s and grade 2’s as well. So again a good mix.

Both kids have some good mates in their class and seemed to be very happy.

Once the first kid got put in her class and the other was not called, my heart sank. I was upset and worried about how the kids would react. Would they cry, yell or get very upset. Would this be a drama and a meltdown???? I had no idea. I braced myself for it. I was holding back some upset and tried not to cry. I know silly really but I was feeling what I thought they would feel. I ended up being the only one crying but I was happy…. I was just emotional and dealing with the shock I suppose of having the kids separated when I thought they were going to be together. I am very pleased that the kids were happy and adjusted well…. Now I just need to work on me adjusting to the new situation.

They are in separate classes for the first time

Hubby and I have been thinking separate classes was the way to go and their kindy teacher last year said she thought that might be a good idea. I was asked and I thought from the discussions that they were going to be put together. No not to be. I am pleased that this was what the school decided and in a way it was out of my control.

One kid gets very annoyed when the other does something she could not or is trying to do. It is not a bad thing but it might take more than one or two goes to get a new skill or technique. Sometimes things work or go well sometimes they don’t. Both the girls are on track and are very similar so if one does not get something it is only the next week or the next day or so when it all equals out.

I do feel that this will help them individually and allow them to be their own person. Being identical twins is one thing but always getting mistaken for the other in the classroom would be annoying. Different classes and teachers will also show the strengths of both children. I sometimes thought that the teacher was mixing up things in the report card and that is easy to do when there are two children doing the same work and you wonder who did what.

I was just very worried as they are both so connected emotionally and was fearful that they might pine for each other and not do well. I know this is good for their growth and development; the classrooms they are in are right next door so they can come and see each other if they want to. They see each other at recess and lunch and of course share a room at home. One big plus is that they will have a lot more to tell mummy and daddy about their day as it will be completely different. They will have their own stories not shared ones, how cool will that be!

My challenge now is to do reading for both kids in the different classes and try to be there for events and special occasions for each classroom. I hope the kids have a good day at school and love their new classes. I hope they like being in their own class and not with their sister.

How have you gone on the first day back at school? Was your child/children happy to go or were there tears? Hope all went well and now to plan my time in the next few weeks.

Question:

If you have twins or multiples have you put them in different classes? When did you split them up. The girls were together for two years of pre-school and also to last year in Kindergarten. Let us know.

 

Categories
6 years and beyond

If The Strain Was Real Life

I love syfy, drama and horror shows, but one that does the lot is the new show called “The Strain”. This show is not for kids and we watch it when we know the twins are asleep.

So what is The Strain?

The Strain follows Dr. Ephraim Goodweather and his team from the CDC (Centre for Disease Control) as they are tasked with investigating a mysterious viral outbreak. The virus affects all passengers on a Boeing 767-300ER that lands at JFK airport. It stops on the tarmac when it was supposed to be taxiing to their destination at the airport. The windows are all closed and all passengers appear to be dead or so it seems. Four passengers are found alive although affected by this weird and unexplainable virus.

On the plane it carried a large wooden box or more like a coffin. In this coffin was dirt and in the dirt was worms. The worms carry the infection and the infection morphs the body of the host (the people) into a vampire like creature.  Dr Ephraim Goodweather ends up teaming up with a man called Abraham Setrakian who has seen this virus before, when in a prison camp during world war II.  Abraham has devoted his life to eradicating this evil and hunting down the master that controls the vampires.

Below is the trailer for “The Strain”

 

Dr. Ephraim Goodweather has a son and he has to stay with him now at all times ( I won’t spoil things if you have not watched it yet), and it got me thinking. Before the whole group went underground to attack the vampires the son got an overview on how to use a sword, told to stay close, and what to do if something bad happened.

In this episode that hubby and I watched I suggested what would it be like if it was real life and how would we fare if we had the twins with us.

So we are all in the tunnel with the twins. And this is what would happen if it was real life:

  • Each child has a sword and has been told not to drop it. They drop it several times and wake the vampires. We risk life and limb and manage to escape without being infected.
  • One child falls over their own feet or object on the ground
  • Does not remember how to use the sword
  • Does not keep quiet
  • Does not stay close to mummy or daddy and gets into trouble. This would mean more sword action and more chance of infection
  • Starts singing and alerts the vampires to our location
  • Starts dancing and bumps into the wall or falls over a vampire
  • Gets scared and starts to cry and wants to be carried through the tunnel
  • Sword to heavy for child, you end up holding onto it plus all the other teddies they have decided they cannot carry (why are you always the packhorse!)
  • Child not listening to you and you end up having to raise your voice and then alerting the vampires to your presence
  • Child or children have a tantrum which of course does not help and makes the vampires turn on you
  • Afraid of the dark and stays still not helping you move through the tunnel
  • Looses their favourite toy and then has a HUGE MELTDOWN. Which means exiting the tunnel quick smart is an URGENT PRIORITY! Not sure if it will happen but we will try.

I am sure that we are safe from a vampire invasion and an infection like that of “The Strain” but looking at my list I think our minutes would be numbered and we would be infected in no time.

Do you look at television shows and wonder what it would be like if it was real life? Hubby and I had a big giggle about it, and I am glad it is all make believe. I would not be laughing if it was real, and glad it is just a television show.

What show do you watch that you have a list similar to mine. Let us know and we can all have a giggle. Send in your comments.

 

Categories
Things to do

First Time Glamping

I have treated the family to an overnight getaway. I am so excited and for a while it was a mystery to hubby where we were going. However this did not last long as I needed to tell him due to logistics and how we got to our destination.

Where are we off to you ask?

We are going to be glamping on Cockatoo Island this October Long Weekend.  We are off this Sunday and back home on the holiday Monday. The twins have no idea where we are going and they will be so excited to find out that are staying on an island in a tent in Sydney Harbour! Cannot wait to see the kids faces.

The tents on Cockatoo Island
The tents on Cockatoo Island

Why Glamping?

I have been camping and know that you need to bring quite a bit of stuff with you. With two adults and two kids the things to pack would be extreme. It is just for one night and I wanted to make things easy on us. Especially me and hubby.

The tents are provided as well as the beds, linen, towels, pillows and a couple extra things. This cuts down on what we have to pack. Ideal really for a short getaway.

Why Cockatoo Island?

I wanted to go away but by the time you factored into plane fares, rental car and of course hotel stay it adds up for just a weekend away. Thousands of dollars for say a two day getaway. Nope not interested in spending that much. Cockatoo Island was reasonable in costs and the best thing is that we can drive to the city, park the car and get onto a ferry and be there easily. No extra payments for hire car, or flights. It is a holiday somewhere we have never been. It will be like we have travelled but we are still in the same city.

Cockatoo Island was cheap considering it has wonderful views and has a lot on offer, I wish I could have booked another night time did not let me (I wanted to do it on the long weekend and could only get Sunday night so that is great and happy with that. Was aiming for Saturday but that was full). There are tours that you can do yourself or have a guide, play tennis or just relax. There are also plenty for the kids to do. Check out the video below:

 

Cockatoo Island also offers great education programs for kids. Below is the video for Primary children but they also have a program for secondary students. This looks amazing and what a great place to make history and facts come to life. I cannot wait to experience it and share it with the kids.

More images and stories to come soon about our weekend away.

Have you been glamping? Did you glamp on Cockatoo Island? Was it for a night or longer? Let us know how it went. The school holidays are nearly over and we have had a jam packed two weeks. This is a perfect way to end the holidays and relax with the family before school resumes.

How were the holidays for you? Hope you are relaxed and have managed okay.

Categories
6 years and beyond

Kids Are Now 6

I have been meaning to write this blog post all weekend but did not get the chance. So what have I been up to? Well, the kids had a big day at their school for fundraising on Friday the 12th of Sept, then Saturday the 13th was their birthdays and of course we went to the local craft and flower fair to see the twins photography and what other people had done. It has been a BIG week and that is putting it mildly.

I cannot believe my little girls are now six! Yes they are big girls now. What little babies they once were.

Mummy and the girls on the 27th of Sept, 2008. Julia on left, Lillian on right.
Mummy and the girls on the 27th of Sept, 2008. Julia on left, Lillian on right.

girlseatingsnow

Lillian and Julia
Lillian and Julia – My wonderful girls

 

The girls on the 12th of Sept. The day before they turn six. They have grown so much.
The girls on the 12th of Sept. The day before they turn six. They have grown so much. Julia on the left, Lillian on the right.

Firstly, I was madly baking and organising things for the twins birthday party. We were having it in a park this year and of course the weather was up and down and we were all crossing our fingers and toes. On the morning of the 13th it was raining, foggy and cloudy. Yes just what you want for a party in the park! However about lunch time the sun came out and it stayed like this for the majority of the day. No rain so that was a win and allowed us all to enjoy the day at the park.

The theme of the kids birthday this year was “My Little Pony” I created my own invites again and I have a free download so that you can change them to make it for your twins or children’s party. In the template you have text fields, can change the age of the birthday people. I have it for 6 as it was for the twins 6th birthday party. Make sure you put a picture of your children to personalise the invite on the bottom left of the invite.  I have added an image of the twins. Remove this one and replace with your own image.

You can also download a blank template with no image here

Download your FREE PARTY INVITE HERE

Here are the instructions to add a picture:

  1. Choose Tools > Content > Edit Object Tool .
  2. Right-click the page and choose Place Image.
  3. Choose one of the following file formats: BMP, GIF, JPEG, JPEG2000, PCX, PNG, or TIFF.
  4. Select an image file, and click Open.

A copy of the image file appears on the page, with the same resolution as the original file.

blankinvitetoeditWhat did I serve for food?

I kept it simple. I had savory snacks, cabanossi, cheese, crackers, dip, carrots, celery and so on. I then had fairy bread, vegan cupcakes, salt and vinger chips with grainwaves as well. The party was after lunch so I was not serving lunch just nice snacks to keep tummy’s happy and not starving. I had real juice poppers with bottles of water to allow us not to have cups for drinks. Not having cups cut down on things we needed to bring and waste as well.

We did have a huge cake so I was sure that all kids would want a piece of it and to my amazement it all got finished. Yes the cake was demolished!

IMG_7549Here is a video of the kids helping hubby cut the cake. It is so funny to hear the reaction of the kids.

 
 

This is what the cake looked like inside. What a great surprise the kids got, and also to the adults. I don’t think they were expecting this.

The incredibly huge and colourful cake!
The incredibly huge and colourful cake!

More about the cake

I did a four layer cake. To make it easier I used vanilla cake mix from the shops. I put the food colouring in the milk before adding it to the mixture and made sure that it was a vivid colour for it to be bright when cutting the cake.

To make the whole for the sweets to fall out when cutting I cut a whole in the two middle layers. I had the bottom layer on first then cut the hole in the two layers at the same time to make sure that the hole matched up. Then I carefully put the two middle layers onto the bottom layer.

Now I filled the hole full of M&M’s and Freckles. Once all full I added some icing around the edges of the hole and middle layer to make sure it did not crack or fall apart. There were some slight cracks but all was fine with the icing helping.

Then I added the top layer of the cake and then iced and decorated. I added the Ponies and the candles on the day.

What else did we do?

The kids were also entertained by a unicorn pinata and it took a while for it to break. This was good as it meant each child got a turn. No kid went without as I had ample sweets and goodies in their party bags.

We all had a great time and I was so pleased that the weather was good. Not sure what they might want for their seventh birthday and not sure if I can comprehend that I will have to kids who will be seven next year. I am still processing them being six.

Next Post

My next post will be about my lovely photographers. Yes they are very clever and won awards on Sunday for their pictures. More later.

Categories
5 years and beyond

First Kindy Parent Teacher Meeting

Kids working away with big pencils. Image courtesy of stockimages / FreeDigitalPhotos.net
Kids working away with big pencils. Image courtesy of stockimages / FreeDigitalPhotos.net

Today I have a meeting with the twins teacher. Yes my first parent teacher meeting for Kindy. I am so excited to hear what the teacher has to say about the girls. I am interested to see what differences there are between them if any with their schooling.

About a week ago we got the girls first report card. I had no idea kindy kids got one but I suppose they are in primary school so it is to be expected. Hubby and I were so proud of our little girls. They have done so well. They got marked HIGH for everything!

I do hope that the teacher just does not say they are doing well here, and good here and this and that. I would like to know what the teacher is noticing are their strengths. This might be hard to establish this early on and especially in kindy. I would like more detail in the reports and to know more about how well the child is going, not just some sentence that does not tell me anything. Do you find that you are not really learning much from the schools?

Near the end of term 1 we got a print out of how the kids went with their best start assessment. However this print out was a guide on how to do things at home and what to start and do. It let me know what they looked at but did not tell me where my child is in this list. Is my kid on target? Is my child learning well? I was hoping it would pin point where you were placed with numeracy and literacy before the start of school. Detail it in a graph or percentage if you want, just give parents some indication of where your child is placed in their learning.

If you know where your child needs more help then you can address this at home. I did mention this with another mother and she said if my kids were having any issues the teacher would have a meeting with me during term to discuss. No meeting has been arranged so I assume all is good. Now with the High listings on the reports and the glowing feedback I am sure the girls are doing very well.

I am not one to think that just due to my kid having a good report that whatever my kid does will be golden. I would like to be a fully informed parent and understand if my child needs help in an area that I can address and give the attention it needs. I would hate to find out at a later stage that I did not know something was wrong and could have been corrected if I only knew about it.

So I am excited to go to the school and see all the work that the teacher has kept for each child throughout the year. The girls are super keen to show mummy all their work and to have their teacher tell me how good they are.

Do you find that reports now are not giving you any information? Do you want more? Is it just me? When I was at school reports told you all things, the bad, the good and the excellent. Reports years ago were sometimes rude, but some were to the point and you understood what the teacher was telling you. I don’t want to have bad things said about someone but if you need to have more attention on maths, or reading then it is a good idea to list that. Right?

Let me know your thoughts. Send in your comments.

Categories
5 years and beyond

Reading With Kids Has A Big Impact

Do you read to your kids? Do your children love books and want to know how to read? The twins have been desperate to learn ever since they understood what a book was. Hubby and I of course have read to them since birth and we make sure we impart the love of books and what reading well can do for you in life.

In a recent study it has shown that if you grow up with a lot of books, get read to and of course love books it will have a big impact on a child starting school and their performance at school. I know this might not be a surprise to some but of course if you are surrounded by books and your parents love reading it might flow onto your children. Mostly it does. Of course you might say that people who have more time or more money can do more for their kids and that might be so.

Sam and Bingo. Level 3 reader. Story by Jenny Giles and Illustrations by Pat Reynolds.
Sam and Bingo. Level 3 reader. Story by Jenny Giles and Illustrations by Pat Reynolds.

However this is not so…. according to Professor Walker it does not matter if you are well off or not. As long as you read to your child and show an appreciation for books it is all good. (Well that is good to know. I am still working on getting the mansion, the yacht and the city abode. I still have time…. but not liking my chances)

“Professor Walker said that if a parent placed a high value on literacy, as shown by the number of books they had, they would read to their child regardless of their socio-economic status.” (Essential Baby, 1st June, 2014)

The girls have come on with their reading very well. It might have something to do with of course being surrounded by books. We have a bookshelf just for them and they take books out and pretend to read them but mostly look at the pictures and play. I end up coming in and finding piles of books that need to be put back into the bookcase.

Since the twins started kindy they have now progressed to level 3 readers. Some kids are on that level, some not, and some on higher levels. All fine and doing well for them. It is great that the school sees how well the individual child is doing and progresses them so that they keep learning and don’t get bored.

We have had issues of one child doing well and upsetting the other. This has caused an issue on her confidence with reading. I have made sure that I have told the child in question that she is reading very well and there is nothing wrong. All she needs to do is to just practice and it will all work itself out.

Sam and Bingo. Level 3 reader. Story by Jenny Giles and Illustrations by Pat Reynolds.
Sam and Bingo. Level 3 reader. Story by Jenny Giles and Illustrations by Pat Reynolds.

If you have twins have you found that one twin was excelling at something and the other twin was upset with the success? How did you cope? All I have done is make sure to say that both are doing an excellent job, and find ways to give big praise to good work for the kid that is doing well and the other that is doing well also. It is hard. Especially when you are faced with very competitive children. They always have to be doing well and get upset when they don’t. Are your twins like this?

According to the Essential Baby article:

“Being read to often increases a child’s vocabulary and enjoyment, and requires them to pay attention and remain engaged.”  (Essential Baby, 1st June, 2014)

So make sure that you are reading to your child every day. It does not need to be at night time. Just make some time for you and your little one to have some time together and read a book. The kids are at the stage now for me to show them more words in books that I am reading. I put my finger on the words like they do with their school readers. This way they know what word is what. Hopefully next time they will reconigse it and it will be easier to read it on their own.

The kids learn to read differently than I did. It is all about sight words. Knowing these sight words by heart so that they are able to read simple books. The sight words are common words like, and, this, I, me and so on. Once the child understands these words reading a simple book and starting at stage 1 these books are very basic but that is fine. You gotta start somewhere. I am also teaching the kids to sound things out, phonetically like the way I learnt to read. Yes I know it is not like the sight words way.

Sounding out words is helpful as it allows the child to figure out a word themselves. I have done it a bit now and have noticed that the twins are doing it more and more.

I also volunteer to do school reading at the school. When the kids read their readers they put their fingers on each word and the text is aligned to their sight words. They have been told to look at the picture to help them understand the story and it is a good idea to look at the book before you read it so they have an idea of what it is about. I hear a group of kids read and make sure that all is correct and they are doing well. In my group I of course have the twins but other kids as well. All of the kids are doing very well and are all at different levels.

Having a chat to the teacher is also a good move if you are worried or think that all is good and the child in question just needs some motivation. I was saying all great things but as soon as it came from the teacher it meant more. Give it a go and see!

Sam and Bingo. Level 3 reader. Story by Jenny Giles and Illustrations by Pat Reynolds.
Sam and Bingo. Level 3 reader. Story by Jenny Giles and Illustrations by Pat Reynolds.

Do your kids pile up books in their beds like mine? Do they leave their night lights on wanting to read all night? Mine do. I suppose that is a good sign. Although it is hard to turn off a light when it is on the top bunk. To do this I need to climb up and over a kid to turn off the light.

I suppose it is just good they love books and are doing well. Let us know how it is in your household.

 

Categories
5 years and beyond

First Stitch

Thursday the kids and I were at the school playground. It was like any other day, kids climbing, getting dirty and doing things they cannot do during the school day. Then Julia hurt herself. Yes I just thought she grazed or scratched herself but it was not to be.

She was climbing a fence and when she was coming down a piece of it ripped into her arm. She was the proud owner of a little hole and as you can imagine she was crying and screaming. I took one look at it and thought we needed to get stitches and with that she freaked out even more!

Lillian told us to go to sick bay but as school was closed so was sick bay and no one was there. I did not think sick bay was the answer and we all made a dash to the medical centre that is around the corner from the twins school (thank god for this)

Julia showing where she had her first stitch. Brave girl.
Julia showing where she had her first stitch. Brave girl.

We arrived and they looked after us immediately. The doctor looked at Julia’s arm and instantly said, “Yes it needs stitches”. So glad we were there and I trusted my instinct about what was needed to help my little girl. I was also grateful that I was there to look after her and have the ability to be there for the twins. I suppose if I was working I would have got a call to come get her or to meet them at the doctors practice. Either way I would have been there.

It was a drama with a screaming kid and all she could scream at the top of her lungs, was, “NO, NOT, NO, NO, NO, NOT, NOT, NO!” “I TOLD YOU I DON’T WANT A NEEDLE, NO NEEDLE!”
The doctor managed to give her a needle to numb her arm to allow him to do the stitches. This was hard to get her to stay still but we managed.

And now for the stitches! The nurse, doctor and I told Julia to look at me while the stitches were done and to not look. This of course made her look and freak out a bit. The numbing of the arm did help as she was a bit calmer after the contents of the needle worked their magic.

Then after the stitches were done a bandage was put over the top to make sure they would stay in place. We have to go back to get them out. Unfortunately they are not the dissolving kind. I hope that this goes well when we see the doctor next time.

During this drama, Lillian was very kind to her sister. On our mad dash to the doctors she made sure to check driveways for cars and made sure she held her sisters hand. While I was with Julia, Lillian was helping the receptionist and office manager at the practice and allowed me to be with Julia who needed me. What a lovely sister and daughter. Very proud of both my little girls. Julia was such a brave girl and I liked that Lillian stepped up to look after her sister.

I must say the ordeal was exhausting, draining, and upsetting for me the mother. I was glad I was there and thankful that she just cut herself rather than breaking a bone or something else terrible. The event took me a while to calm down from and I suppose anyone can agree, seeing your child scream and in pain is not fun.

Has any of your children/child had to get stitches? Did they do one better and brake an arm? Was it a major drama getting to help and dealing with the child that is in pain? I am sure it would be no matter how minor it does appear after. Julia is fine and next week we go to get the stitches removed. I am not looking forward to it but will be relived once they are out and she does not need them anymore.

Let us know what happened to you. Were you on edge afterwards? I found a nice red wine helped after we were home. I must say the next day I was still a bit out of sorts. Has this happened to you?

Categories
5 years and beyond

Birthday Eve Thoughts

Wising myself a very happy birthday
Wising myself a very happy birthday

Tomorrow is my birthday and yes I will officially be another year older. Since today is birthday eve it has been a time of reflection. I am a bit sad about some things that I hoped to have done or completed and other things I am very happy with. So what are they?

Things I am pleased with:

  • The twins are very happy with school and doing very well.
  • Due to the kids being at school it gives me more time to get things done. Very nice indeed, and makes for a much calmer and happier mummy.
  • Happy that family are well and happy.

Things that I am not too pleased with:

  • I wanted to be fitter, slimmer and more slinky.
  • Have our house plans finalized.
  • Get the new looking blog launched.
  • Wanted to spend more time on the blog and develop more sections. It will happen, just taking longer than expected.
  • Work on my eBook.
  • Make more money… yes that is the constant want isn’t it.  I’m sure that is on everyone’s list!
    (be nice to help more to the household and maybe use the cash for a much needed holiday)

The things on my not pleased list can be fixed and I am working to improve them. I feel energized to create a to do list of things I wish to achieve and cross off each one when complete. I now feel more of a fire in my belly to get more done and to have a very productive rest of 2014.  Do you take stock mid year? I am due to my birthday, but maybe a half yearly stock take for your goals is a good idea? What are your thoughts? (You heard it here first!)

Do you weigh up things around your birthday? I do. I compare what I was hoping to achieve to what actually happened and get a bit upset. However life does happen so you have to excuse yourself a bit for stopping to enjoy things as well. You cannot work till you drop, some do it but it is not sustainable.

On the whole I have it very good and I hope it gets better and grander in the future. I can hope can’t I! Dreams fuel my passions, and they can only make things better. Well I think so!

I have a big box to unwrap tomorrow for my birthday and I am keen to find out what is in it! The twins went out with hubby yesterday and they have been very tight lipped so they have finally learnt and understood how to keep a secret.

One thing that they have said in unison is….

“We don’t know anything about what is inside the box!” “We have no idea mummy!” Then they giggle with faces in their hands and run away! Little funny kids they are.

 

My birthday presents. Waiting for me to open them! I cannot wait. Wonder what they are?
My birthday presents. Waiting for me to open them! I cannot wait. Wonder what they are?

I will let you know what is inside the big box tomorrow. However I have to unwrap it in the evening due to hubby working and kids at school. It is going to kill me to wait. Staring at it on the dining room table all day! Just painful and horrible torture!

Birthday time is also a reminder for me to get my checkup at the doctor, skin cancer specialist and any other tests, oh a pap test and so on! I like to make sure that I get it done when I remember it. I know not a very good thing to do at your birthday, but you remember the date. It does not have to be on your birthday just close to it. Book in for a check up. Make sure all is tip top with you!

Categories
5 years and beyond

Best Australian Blogs 2014 – Vote for me!

Vote for me in the Best Australian Blog 2014 Comp. Just click on this logo on the right hand column of the blog and you will be taken to the right page to vote.
Vote for me in the Best Australian Blog 2014 Comp. Just click on this logo on the right hand column of the blog and you will be taken to the right page to vote.

I have been super busy organising new things for the blog and creating a whole new section, “Downloads“. Other than that, something exciting has happened, I am up for Best Australian Blog for 2014. Yes how amazing would this be.

This competition is run by The Australian Writers’ Centre and there are so many cool things that will happen if I win. To get anywhere close I need you to help me. Can you spare less than 5 minutes to vote for me? I hope so as it would be a great help to my campaign.

All you have to do is to go to this link for Best Australian Blogs 2014 and it will take you to the correct page to vote. Follow the prompts and it will only take a few seconds.

Thanks so much for your help and support.

 

Categories
5 years and beyond

Off To The Opera

Figaro. Image found on wikipedia.org
Figaro. Image found on Wikipedia.org

UPDATE: The Opera was put on hold. Once cast member broke their leg and the replacement is having a baby. So it has been rescheduled for next term. Glad we won’t miss it but was looking forward to it.

This is my post to make you all jealous. Yes you read that right. I fear that this will make you all green with envy. Just what about you ask and wonder?

Next Friday I am off to see Opera Australia perform “The Barber of Seville” at the twins school. Yes the opera! The Australian Opera is coming to perform. Not only are they going to showcase a wonderful story to the kids and open them up to costumes, the stage and great performances but they are allowing parents to tag along free! Yes FREE!

Well as long as I can find a seat that is. Would sitting on the floor be o.k if I was not in the way? How early is too early to wait to make sure I get seat? Should I turn up 30mins before the performance? Not sure what to do here….there might be heaps of interest and maybe none.

I have paid for the kids to go and now I am super excited for my day at the opera. Should I dress up? Or just wear jeans and a t-shirt? I was thinking of the big hat and annoying people behind me with my swanky outfit, but that will not be happening. I have no swanky big hat and don’t think I can muster up a fancy outfit even in a weeks notice. Maybe smart casual and some makeup is what is going to actually happen.

My nana (the girls GG) loves going to the Opera House due to loving Opera, but that is not the only reason. One major reason is that they have all sorts of people come to their performances of Opera, comedy, symphony and more.  Dress is not a major thing that is noted. Nana loves it that she can be with people in thongs, jeans and a t-shirt who are passionate about the arts, you also get people who are in designer frocks and all the accessories that go with it.

It is great that the Australian Opera is giving the kids a chance to experience opera and these types of performances. I grew up going to the theatre and saw many operas so I know it is going to make an impression. Making art available for all kids to experience is a good thing and many kids don’t get the opportunity to go to the opera or even a live performance of a play.

I bet you are now very jealous of me going to the opera next Friday while you might be at work or at lunch. I will think of you while having a nice pleasant midday matinee performance of “The Barber of Seville”. Wish me luck in getting a seat for the show next Friday, and then I will be able to enjoy it in style rather than trying to get room on the floor.

What have you been jealous of lately? Has someone won something? Did a certain someone get tickets or go somewhere you have always wanted to go? Let us know.

Categories
Wednesday Wisdom

Looking At Things Differently

The other day one of my girls asked what fog was again. I replied saying, “It is low lying cloud” Both girls said, Oh yes that’s right it is cloud. We forgot!

Foggy Day in the Blue Mountains
Foggy Day in the Blue Mountains

One of the girls then said the following:

“That fog is lazy mummy! It does not want to go into the sky and would rather be on the ground! Lazy Fog!”

Maybe she is right? Fog could be the lazy clouds that want to lie about and do nothing? The clouds that are in the sky are achievers and go getters? Maybe the clouds that are fog are just taking a well deserved break? Everyone needs time out don’t you think? This announcement that their is lazy fog made us all giggle and laugh for a while. It was a very funny moment.

Have you had moments that you have looked at things differently? The child who told me about the lazy clouds asked if she was right. I did not have the heart to tell her that her theory might not be 100% and thought it was a clever way to explain it.

What has changed your thinking or view on things? Was it something your little ones said? Or your partner/friends. Let us know.

 

Categories
5 years and beyond

Grandparent’s Day

The kids cannot wait to be on the stage.Image courtesy of scottchan / FreeDigitalPhotos.net
The kids cannot wait to be on the stage.Image courtesy of scottchan / FreeDigitalPhotos.net

Update: The concert was wonderful. The twins were so excited that Nana made it you could see their faces smile from the moon or further out in space. The girls did not get shy on stage but there were moments when they stopped to look at a person or something and did not sing at all.

The twins have been practicing for a concert at school. Songs have been sung at home, in the car and everywhere in between. The girls are so excited as they have told me that they will be on stage for the performance.

The concert is tomorrow and it is in honour of grandparent’s day. The school has opened their doors for visitors to look at the classrooms, be entertained with a concert in the hall and afterwards are putting on a morning tea.

I am going as I cannot wait to see my little entertainers up on stage. My mum the girl’s nana is lucky enough to attend and of course the kids are super excited about this.

Do you celebrate Grandparents Day? Does your school do anything special? I am excited just like the kids and will of course video it for hubby to see also. My little girls are such performers at home and I am sure they will be in their element on stage at school.

Cannot wait to let you know how the concert went. More tomorrow.

 

Categories
5 years and beyond

Mummy I have a boyfriend!

Boy and girl playing together. Image courtesy of marin / FreeDigitalPhotos.net
Boy and girl playing together. Image courtesy of marin / FreeDigitalPhotos.net

I was told to bend down to hear a secret from one of my girls. She then whispered in my ear, “I have a boyfriend mummy!” Now this boy is answering to the title of boyfriend and seems quite happy about it. My other little girl was close to this boy but has decided she now likes another and she now has a boyfriend as well.

The twins understanding of boyfriends is just friends so that is nice. However I was rather shocked at hearing this news. My kids are just in Kindy. It is only the end of the sixth week and we have boyfriends. What does the rest of primary school hold if this is just Kindy? Should I be worried? I’m sure it is a phase, or I’m hoping.

I know one in particular was sweet on one boy and she talks about him all the time at home. This boy does the same at his house, and I found this out after saying hi to his mummy and mentioning that one of my kids like him. He mentioned it is the one with the mischievous face, I asked if he knew who that was and he pointed to the right child. Weird how that description does sum up this child and he has worked out who is who. Some kids find it hard due to the fact that the twins are identical, but some just know who is who.

When did you kids get a boyfriend or girlfriend at school? Was it just a nice way to say that they liked each other? Or are you worried? I think the girls are just liking making new friends and having boys as mates as well as girls. Send in your comments.

Categories
5 years and beyond School

Big School Starts Today

My little girls start school or should I say my big girls. They have grown up a lot and I cannot believe they will be at school today and all week.

Below is a picture of the girls and I soon after they were born. They were 6 weeks early and of course tiny as you can see from the picture.

Mummy and the girls on the 27th of Sept, 2008. Katoomba Hosp. Julia on left, Lillian on right.
Mummy and the girls on the 27th of Sept, 2008. Katoomba Hosp. Julia on left, Lillian on right.

Julia and Lilian on last day of school for term 1 2012 for preschool
Julia and Lilian on last day of school for term 1 2012 for preschoolLast day of school

 

Last day of School for 2012
Last day of School for 2012

The girls last day of preschool 2013 - Look how big and grown up they are!
The girls last day of preschool 2013 – Look how big and grown up they are!

They will be in their school uniform and I don’t post in regards to the school they go to and show the uniform but look how much they have grown. They are going to look so cute in their uniform and have such a great day. Hope they have a great time and really enjoy themselves.

Of course I will take pictures for me and to remember their first day. Hubby has the day off so that he can be there for their first day. You might think that today is going to be relaxing afterwards, but not to be. I have a tonne of things to get done.

Kids are now out of the shower and off to help them get into school uniforms and reach all the draws in their new room.

Categories
5 years and beyond

The Library Disaster

I want that book MUMMY! Image courtesy of David Castillo Dominici / FreeDigitalPhotos.net
I want that book MUMMY! Image courtesy of David Castillo Dominici / FreeDigitalPhotos.net

It is another rainy day. After my visit to the chiropractor I took kids to get a hot chocolate and I had a relaxing camomile tea.  After we finished our drinks I thought spending some time at the library reading some books would be a good idea.

My plan worked to a point and then it didn’t. What happened you ask? Well…

I told one kid that she could borrow a book and then the other wanted to borrow the one we just read. I said fine.  I had just finished “The Tale of Peter Rabbit” before. I told the kids that we had read enough and should go home to get something to eat and do other fun things.

Now here is where it gets interesting and annoying. Remember we are in a library where you need to be quiet.

I put the Peter Rabbit book back on the shelves and took the other 2 books with me. Then the world ended. Shrieks, Screams, Yelling and of course crying! Did I say yelling and screaming! Oh god it was bad! It was mortifying!

I told the twins that we already have this book at home and why borrow it when we already have it. They did not want to listen and were not doing as they were told. I also told them that they need to stop getting the book back as we don’t need to borrow it.

As they were not listening I then said we could not borrow anymore books as we already have some at home that we are yet to read, and they were acting up terribly so they were not due to get anything nice due to bad behaviour.

This of course made matters worse and then I walked out of the library with 2 banshee like creatures following me, screaming the place down.

You might think this is terrible enough. However it does not stop there. My dramatic exit was not to be the end of the story. I realised after leaving I had left the kids jackets on the floor of the kids area in the library. Yes I had to go in again and of course since it is just me with the kids, they had to come in with me again. SHIT!

They of course still carried on terribly, so I told them that they need to behave. I finally managed to get out, to the car and home. While in the car both kids were crying and upset and kept it up for a while.

Kids did not start off with such bad behaviour at the library and while we were there reading the stories there was a baby screaming the place down. I thought how rude of the parent, but understood. Then it was my turn to do the same. It was an embarrassing situation and I did the only thing anyone would have done. Left and made kids go to their room after we got home.

How has school holidays been for you? Have your kids been well behaved? Or have you got banshees at the moment? Send in your stories.

Categories
5 years and beyond

Pushing Boundaries

Running around and creating mischief. Image courtesy of chrisroll at FreeDigitalPhotos.net
Running around and creating mischief. Image courtesy of chrisroll at FreeDigitalPhotos.net

Are your twins competitive? Mine are. It is tiring and exhausting dealing with kids that argue, annoy each other and want to do the same as the other in the same space, time and with the same things. We nearly have two of everything so there should not be an issue. The issue arises when one child gets something of mine or one of something and then the other wants it also. This as you can imagine makes it hard from a mummy perspective.

So what do I do?

  • Tell the child with the toy/item that they have a certain time frame to play with it and then it is the others turn. This does lead to the child crying and screaming that they got it first but it does get accepted after a bit of time and explaining.
  • Once I have the toy/item from the first kid I then give the toy to the other child and they have some time to play with it.
  • You can make sure it is fair for each child by using a stopwatch or a timer from the kitchen. When the bell sounds the other kid has a go!
  • If all fails I take the toy away and then no kid can play with it.
  • If there is a complete meltdown from both kids I take all away and put them in time out or have some quiet time in their room or in the backyard doing something different. A change of scenery is best. Distract and change things around a bit always is helpful.

This age of pushing boundaries and doing more on their own is interesting. Kids are climbing more, hurting themselves and just being secret little explorers. Sometimes they are doing things that they have been told not to do and that is hard to deal with. Maybe I need to hide more things and put them at greater heights. We are already finding chairs and boxes around the house, these have been used by the twins to access things that they are not supposed to have.

Do you find that your kids are getting into things that you told them not to access! Have you found that your little people are having wonderful adventures and are just very busy with heaps to do all the time? I have and it does not stop! Maybe it is the fact of having two kids at the same age.

My hubby has asked what I want for Christmas and my answer is a holiday for me to unwind and relax! I know not very fair to the family but after dealing with all the chaos of kids, meltdowns and being the go between on everything a holiday where I sleep in, get cooked for, and can have some quiet me time is very attractive at the moment.

How do you deal with this active stage with your kids? I do organise things for the girls but they are active little things and always want to do more and explore. Send in your comments.