RAISING KIDS WITH CONSCIENCE ( WIN ) STAY SAFE! AN ECO BABY BUNDLE The PAGE 51*
Green ParentTHEGREENPARENT.CO.UK Let's Celebrate! Kids are not colour blind ECO PARTY ideas How to dismantle racism at home
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The ISSUE NUMBER Green Parent Contents NINETY SIX 59
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RAISING KIDS WITH CONSCIENCE ( WIN ) STAY SAFE! AN ECO BABY 30 RAISE A BOOKWORM BUNDLE The PAGE 51* UPFRONT When and how to HEALTH & BEAUTY 9 DIARY Upcoming events introduce books to 46 ASK A NUTRITIONIST Green ParentTHEGREENPARENT.CO.UK Let's Celebrate! Kids are not colour blind ECO PARTY ideas How to dismantle 10 BREAST INTENTIONS ensure a lifelong Alternatives to bread racism at home Readers’ experiences love of reading 48 THE GIFT ECONOMY BACK TO SCHOOL Packed lunches 12 RECLAIM THE STREETS 33 GET ORGANISED Buy nothing and share re-invented ideas12 for HOW TO Celebrate car-free day Keep everything what you do have CREATING (TRAVEL) A GIFT WITHOUT LEAVING 13 PARTY ON, DUDES! under control in 50 MINDFUL KITCHEN ECONOMY HOME GET Have a sustainable just 30 mins a day Adopt beginner’s mind ORGANISED In just 30 minutes a day! birthday party 35 BEACH BUMS Reusable
August/September 2020 £3.95 14 FIND YOUR SWAN nappies for high summer *COMPETITIONS OPEN TO UK RESIDENTS ONLY Drag for kids FOOD & DRINK LEARNING 53 BOXING CLEVER FREE DIGITAL FAMILY Great ideas for SUBSCRIPTION 36 READ, CREATE packed lunches 18 KIDS ARE NOT AND PLAY Readers 54 MEET THE CHEF WHEN YOU COLOUR BLIND How to review stories, games Nourishing veggie SUBSCRIBE! dismantle racism at home and activity books food that is super simple Page 45 >> 22 MAKING THE BOND 43 STRIKING A BALANCE 58 SWEET PICKINGS Babywearing in times A toy that can be The magic and folklore of social distancing anything you want it to be of the blackberry plant 27 WHAT’S IN THE BAG 44 HARVEST HOME 59 SLOW DOWN Learning through Celebrate Lammas Recipes to make use everyday play by making corn dollies of a glut from the garden
AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2020 thegreenparent.co.uk 3 WHAT'S INSIDE
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66 A ROOM OF ONE’S OWN 8 GREEN PARENT HOUSE & GARDEN A little piece of heaven ONLINE Campaigns JOIN US 63 GROWTH SPURT in your back yard and initiatives on Send us a letter letters@ Science experiments our social platforms thegreenparent.co.uk for your garden 15 WILD DADDY Sign up to our weekly TRAVEL Relishing kids’ freedom digest at tinyurl. 69 5 WAYS TO TRAVEL 16 HIPPIE DREAM com/greenparentweekly Without leaving home An unexpected visitor and get crafts, events & 17 TWO MUMMIES recipes every Wednesday. Life in lockdown Find friends at 51 FASHION 45 SUBSCRIBE thegreenparent. 73 FAVOURITES And get access to co.uk/forums Late summer finds all our back issues Hook up with us 75 PASS IT ON 51 COMPETITIONS at facebook.com/ Secondhand clothing Win washable nappies greenparentmag to get and where to source it and mineral make up inspiration, news and chat 74 NEXT ISSUE Find out what we What’s in store in Sept? are up in the GP IN EVERY ISSUE 76 HOROSCOPES office attwitter.com/ 6 MEET OUR What’s in the stars for you greenparentmag CONTRIBUTORS in August and September Check out our Who’s inside this issue 80 EARTH MOTHER super inspiring 7 WELCOME Make nurturing book feed on instagram@ Letter from the editor choices for small children thegreenparentmag
4 AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2020 thegreenparent.co.uk ®
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HOLLY FARRELL trained at RHS Gardens MEET OUR CONTRIBUTORS Wisley and now combines her career as a garden writer with growing her own fruit and We are grateful to our writers for their vegetables. Find her ideas for experiments insight and thought-provoking comment to try at home in your garden on page 63.
GEMMA BRAY created The Organised Mum LIESL CLARK is an award-winning Method 13 years ago when her first baby was filmmaker and cofounder of the Buy born. Overwhelmed as a new mother, her Nothing Project. In 2013, she launched anxiety manifested itself as over-cleaning and the group with a friend. In their island she soon found herself cleaning for hours community, just off the coast of Seattle, each day. Determined to stop cleaning from they discovered that the beaches of Puget taking over her life she sat at her kitchen table and developed Sound were spoiled by a daily influx of plastic items washing a method that took only 30 mins each day, she freed herself up on shore. From pens and toothbrushes to toys and straws, from the never-ending to-do list in her head and freed up her they wondered, where did it all come from? From buying weekends. Read her approach to an organised home on page 33. nothing, came the sharing economy - read more on page 49
NATASHA CORRETT launched Honestly JENNY KARP is a mum to four adopted kids Healthy with best selling cook books and a food and a maker at glitterfarm.com. “I wrangle delivery service eight years ago. After having kids, make art, teach and sell my wares,” her son Rudy she wanted to connect with other she shares. “It's a busy, crazy life!” Take a mums around the world through the love of peek inside her workspace on page 66. food. Read our interview with her on page 54.
WE WOULD ALSO LIKE TO THANK ALL OUR OTHER WONDERFUL WRITERS, ILLUSTRATORS AND PHOTOGRAPHERS: Pragya Agarwal, Lucy AitkenRead, Claire Ashbourne, Maria Batalier, Lei Chan, Jessica Rae Gordon, Andy Hamilton, Hannah Hiles, Lisa Jane, Alex Johnson, Erika Kotite, Shabs Kwofie, Le Gateau Chocolat, Sarah Macbeth, Isabel Mack, Zoe Masters, Carol Partridge, Tess Robinson, Rebecca Rockefeller, Byron Smith, Kim Snyder, Donna Taylor, Heather Thomas, Kerstin Unvas Moberg EDITOR'S LETTER
The WELCOME TO Green Parent
“We joined thousands of other protestors marching around the city streets; Iris armed with a couple of maracas”
and inspiring and held their we think we might be, to do second march last weekend the honest, uncomfortable (smaller in number but still work of rooting it out.” powerful). We joined thousands A good place to start is the of other protestors marching main feature in this edition – around the city streets; Iris Kids Are Not Colour Blind – it armed with a couple of maracas guides us to tackle racism at (which she waved heartily in home through each stage of my face). After the march, we child development. I’d also gathered in the park for the recommend justiceinjune.org speeches. The speakers bought where you can become a better me to tears several times. There ally with just 10 minutes a day was the man who told the tale to spare. I’m working through of his ten-year-old son wanting Me and White Supremacy – a to take his penknife down to workbook centred around the beach. He explained to his digging into the uncomfortable son that because of his skin truths about white privilege. colour it was too risky. Or the I hope that the ideas in this DOWNLOAD CAN HARDLY BELIEVE poet who spoke out the names issue help you get started. I’d THE GREEN it – my youngest just of black victims of police love to hear from you about PARENT APP turned one this week. violence to honour their lives. your experiences in talking Get every A whole year old, I realise that it’s not enough with your kids about race. issue of the magazine she’s cruising around to be non-racist – that I need delivered to your phone furniture and desperate to use my white privilege to With love and peace, or tablet including all Ito conquer the stairs. This week challenge structural, systemic racism. Michelle Obama she tried cake for the first time our back issues. tinyurl. (loved it – it’s in her blood!) and expressed it best when she com/greenparentapp also went on her third protest said, “It’s up to all of us — march. The Black Lives Matter Black, white, everyone — no movement in Brighton is strong matter how well-meaning Melissa Corkhill, Editor
THIS MONTH I’M... EXPLORING beautiful hidden places in Sussex with a group of friends and their babies EATING Cutting sugar out of my diet has been a blessing (and a challenge) – lentils, spinach, eggs and courgettes have featured heavily in place of chocolate! READING Why I’m No Longer Talking to White People About Race by Reni Eddo Lodge SUPPORTING Femme International – a charity that provides reusable menstrual kits to East African girls
AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2020 thegreenparent.co.uk 7 WELCOME
new this month at thegreenparent.co.uk GreTheen Parent Editor Melissa Corkhill [email protected] Art Director Jez Harris [email protected] Features Writer Kate Hodges [email protected] Social Media Manager Aina Barcelo Tweet @greenparentmag Beauty Awards Manager Monica Ugalde [email protected] Advertising Sales, Hayley Biddulph, David Hobden, Tel 01892 677740 [email protected]
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The Green Parent is printed by Warners Midlands PLC on FSC® certified paper. Distributed by Seymour Distribution MANIC ORGANIC Come and join us at facebook.com/greenparentmag throughout the UK, USA, Canada and Australia. The Green Parent is a member of INK (independent news for a fun filled month of Organic September goodness. We promise recipes, collective), an association of radical and alternative publishers. The Green Parent is published by Green Parent shout outs, competitions and more. Looking forward to celebrating with you! Media LTD © 2020. All rights reserved. Reproduction in part or whole without permission is strictly prohibited. While every effort is made to ensure accuracy we cannot take responsibility for losses resulting from publishing errors, however caused. The opinions expressed in this publication are not to be considered those of the publisher, who accepts no liability of any nature arising out of or in connection with the contents of this magazine. Competition guidelines: Entering a competition will be seen as acceptance of these rules • The closing date for competitions is 30.09.20 unless otherwise stated • Only one entry per person per competition is permitted • No responsibility is accepted for entries that are lost, delayed or damaged in the post • Entries can be sent by postcard to the address above or emailed to competitions@thegreenparent. co.uk. Please supply name, address, telephone number and email and mark clearly which competition you are entering • Illegible or incomplete entries will not be accepted CAT ADVENTURES YOUR WEEKEND SORTED BEAUTY STORIES • No cash alternative to any prize is offered • The editor’s Are you a cat person Sign up to our weekly Want some insider decision is final. No correspondence will be entered into. or a dog person? On dose of Green Parent GP natural beauty 8th August come on over fun and magic at tinyurl. tips? Want to know what to our Instagram page for com/tgpweekly. Every the experts have in their some cat loving! We’re week you’ll get an email bathroom cabinets? We’ve marking International Day packed with ideas to help all this and more for you at of the Cat with some of you feel organised and thegreenparent.co.uk our favourite cat pics. in control. And plenty of through the month of When you have finished reading this magazine please keep it for reference, @thegreenparentmag. fun too, we promise! August and September. pass it onto a friend or recycle it.
8 AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2020 thegreenparent.co.uk 'HIRING A KIT IS OFTEN CHEAPER THAN BUYING DISPOSABLE UPFRONT ITEMS' WASTE-FREE PARTY - P13 Breastfeeding Reclaim Waste- Drag Queen 10 Experiences 12 the Streets 13 Free Party 14 Theatre
enormous sacrifice made by its inhabitants in August 1665. Bubonic plague had arrived – via a parcel of cloth from London – at the house of Find the village tailor. The plague quickly spread from house to art in the house, but the locals made a woods! brave decision; to stay within the confines of the village in order to stop the spread of the disease. At least 260 people lost their lives. The story has particular resonance this strange year. Things may be a little different due to restrictions, but traditionally the procession starts outside the church at 2.30pm. Perhaps you might mark the day with your own re-enactment or procession complete with plague doctors and brave villagers. eyam-museum.org.uk be blown away by The Dream, an imposing sculpture of a girl Be Together - September with closed eyes representing 21 is the International Day Of FAMILY DIARY hope for the future on the site Peace, as established in 1981 by We may still be under government restrictions, of a colliery at Sutton Manor the United Nations. It’s a time Community Woodland in St to get involved in the culture but high summer makes social distancing so much Helens. Art and nature; the of peace, perhaps you might easier. Discover art in the wild, go nut collecting, perfect balm for troubled times. join in the minute of silence or spread the word of peace. Hello sunshine! forestryengland.uk/ – or Peace Wave – at 12 noon, forest-art-works plant a peace pole, try yoga, Roots and Culture - Fancy wooden sculptures, modernist mediation or prayer or hold a mixing some high culture with life-size figures and thought- Brave Hearts - Each year, peace vigil. Or try something your forest stroll? Check out provoking installations nestled on the last Sunday in August, creative – write reflective poetry Forestry England’s website to among the trees. Perhaps the village of Eyam in the Peak or create anti-war artwork. find the most incredible stained you’ll follow a sculpture trail District holds a remembrance internationaldayofpeace.org glass art (pictured), giant around the Forest of Dean, or service to commemorate the
Green hazelnuts – or cobnuts – hang temptingly NUTS FOR NUTS from September trees. For centuries these hedgerow treasures have been associated with druidic magic, wisdom and inspiration; why not test out the mystic powers and sit under a hazel tree to compose an autumn poem? But, to be honest, we’re all about the grub. Beat the squirrels to these fresh and sweet little nuts, and eat them on the hoof, or take them home to bake with honey and FOREST OF DEAN SCULPTURE TRUST : preserve them all year round, or add your stash to meringue to make it nutty and chewy. PHOTO AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2020 thegreenparent.co.uk 9 UPFRONT / SUPPORT We asked you NURSING COMFORT Creative Ideas!
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BREAST INTENTIONS World Breastfeeding Week runs from August self weans. I felt I had to fight to get support each time. My 1-7. Breastfeeding is the gold standard of child ability to breastfeed successfully nutrition, and absolutely free! However, it’s not was intrinsically linked to my post-partum mental health. The always an easy – or even possible – journey. Organic Nursing Top, grief I felt when my daughter £29, welovefrugi.com We asked our Facebook and Instagram refused the breast was deep and With a clever panel on the followers about their feeding experiences, unacknowledged by society, I front which can be lifted will be forever grateful to the to reveal the hidden side and where they found help, and – oh my – NHS IBC lactation consultant openings underneath, did the floodgates open. We’ve shared a who helped us get back on this top is ideal for track. They not only saved our comfortable feeding! few stories here, and will put more online breastfeeding relationship but also my mental health..” ✽ “UNTIL SOCIAL MEDIA the time.” Eva Wedervang- Tessa Durham via Facebook opened the doors for mothers Jensen via Facebook ✽ "La Leche League were a to discuss their potential ✽ “Breastfeeding education massive help for me. I called struggles with motherhood I should be taught antenatally them a few times for advice over think many people just thought or even part of the school the phone and also read their breastfeeding was automatic. curriculum as part of nutrition. brilliant book The Womanly Art It's so important to keep this For me both breastfeeding of Breastfeeding. I persevered awareness up and support journeys were more painful until things became easier and mental health during and post and difficult to start than giving then carried on breastfeeding Reusable bamboo pregnancy.” francescaklottrup birth. But the knowledge I've until my son was five!” breast pads, £10.95, via Instagram gained is incredible. Freedom neatlydoesitsilver via Instagram mamadesigns.co.uk ✽ “My number one advice of choice is fundamental Made from super soft is feed on demand. If only I when feeding your baby, but it This is an ongoing piece, bamboo. They are ultra had known La Leche League should be an informed choice.” see many more stories at absorbent, yet slim and before, breastfeeding would harrietmdoe via Instagram thegreenparent.co.uk and discreet. A double layer have been much easier. When ✽ “I have tandem fed a toddler please feel free to share your of bamboo fleece and I had my second daughter I and a baby, and I have fed two experiences with us via our an invisible waterproof fed on demand which, in the children beyond toddlerhood. I social media channels or email coating prevent leaks. beginning, was practically all intend to feed my third until she [email protected]
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CYCLING TO SCHOOL? Follow these simple steps say frogbikes.co.uk ✽ Plan the journey in advance and do a test ride at the weekend so everyone is confident of the route. ✽ Ensure everyone’s bike is safe and roadworthy. Are the tyres pumped up, brakes working and seat post clamp tight? ✽ Decide upon suitable ‘cycling wear’ for your children so they understand these are the items they need to wear when cycling. ✽ If you are walking and your child is cycling on the pavement encourage your child to slow down or walk when passing people. Position yourself next to the road to make sure they RECLAIM THE STREETS do not veer off into it. Imagine a world free of roaring engines, linked to health problems from dementia to heart disease exhaust fumes, and streets filled with children and miscarriage. Children are playing, communities growing crops and art. most at risk, as it can stunt the For one day a year, that dream can come true lungs and affect intelligence. The event created positive CAR FREE DAY IS A GLOBAL of pollutants in urban areas. emotions amongst the event when cities and towns Hastings’ first ever Car Free attendees and participants, a close their roads to traffic Day celebration took place on a transformative environment, and let the people take over. stretch of the seafront road, and and fostered collaborative Fancy setting one up yourself? was a community run event. working. There was genuine We spoke to Sarah Macbeth, We wanted to challenge the enthusiasm and hard work design researcher and activist, ‘normal’ of a busy seafront road. from those involved. When who, with Transition Town Car Free Day is an important we asked visitors what they Hastings, organised an event way to promote sustainable liked most about our Car as part of the day last year forms of transport and reclaim Free Day event, they told us about the practical side of space for communities to come that it was the simple act of holding a huge block party. together in mutual enjoyment, being able to be on the road “Car Free Days have been to celebrate being together without noise or pollution.” in existence for many years; and imagining possible car drivers are encouraged futures for the community. Air to leave their cars at home pollution is known to shorten MORE INSPIRATION allowing citizens to reclaim lives and reduce the quality livingstreets.org.uk streets from the dominant use of life for tens of thousands sarahmacbeth.com of road vehicles, a major source of people. It has also been transitiontownhastings.org.uk
12 AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2020 thegreenparent.co.uk UPFRONT / CELEBRATE
ECO PARTY EXTRAS
1. The wildlife inspired pre-filled party bags at littleotterpartysupplies. co.uk are gorgeous and very reasonably priced
2. We love the eco friendly biodegradeble glitter and fair trade gifts at plasticfree partybags PARTY ON, DUDES! .com We like to party; everybody does! However, it can be tricky to find eco- 3. At littlecherry.co.uk, friendly, jolly party ware, and reusable plates and glasses take up an you can pick up all the bamboo partyware and awful lot of cupboard space. Enter The Party Network, a non-profit, fabric bunting you could UK-wide directory of ‘party kits’ – boxes of tableware; plates, cups, ever need, plus these cool bowls, jugs and cutlery, as well as table linen, decorations, and even coconut shell bowls. pass-the-parcel bags! We spoke to Isabel Mack from the network
“I FIRST READ ABOUT PARTY KITS LAST Some kits use bamboo tableware but many June. It seemed like such a simple and positive use plastic, predominately the IKEA KALAS sets. idea I was inspired to investigate more. This is because it’s light, durable, affordable My background is in ecommerce and I and is technically recyclable (I'm working on thought there should be a way to make it that). The bamboo stuff is only 'biodegradable', easier for people to find their local kit. In (although it does look pretty!) There is obviously collaboration with Dian Sofia from Zero Waste much discussion about materials and some 4. Notepads, coloured Near Me, I quickly discovered kits across the kits are made up of entirely second-hand pencils and seeds feature UK, and decided to launch a dedicated site; my equipment to make them a little greener. in these kids party bags accidental network! In the first eight months Hiring a kit is often cheaper and easier than with a conscience! the network grew to 350 party kits with more buying the equivalent disposable items. ecopartybags.co.uk people joining to get support to set up their own. But mainly it’s about reducing waste. For a party Many have since added more equipment so of 30 children, a party kit can save an average of they can hire out multiple kits each weekend. 100 single-use items from landfill. The main aim All the party kits in the network are run of the network is to spread the word about the independently by a mix of individuals, school concept. But also I'm passionate about making this PTAs, zero waste stores, lending libraries and sustainable switch accessible to as many people small party businesses. Many are run as a as possible; inspiring and supporting people to fundraising activity and driven by a passion for set up new kits to fill in the gaps on the map.” looking after the planet rather than for profit. Find out more at partykitnetwork.uk
AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2020 thegreenparent.co.uk 13 UPFRONT / WATCH
Let's talk about it 'THE METAPHORICAL CHANGE HAS TO COME FROM YOU, NO-ONE IS GOING TO MAGICALLY CHANGE YOU INTO A SWAN'
present, and gives Duckie a real sense of being othered. It also means that kids who are hearing impaired don’t have to wait for a signed show! The original story comes with the promise that 'it gets better', but there is no magic, just mistaken identity. That's the interesting thing to instil in the kids; you are enough. The metaphorical change has to come from you, no-one is going to magically change you into a swan. You have to invest in you, to accept and embrace the fullness of you, and that is how a transformation comes. The more you lean into how different you are, size-wise, colour-wise, whatever it is, that's how you embrace your change. I’ve taken it all around the UK. I wouldn't essentially cast It plays to everyone from two- my look in the show as drag; FIND YOUR SWAN year-olds to grandparents. It’s it’s more just theatrical. But not billed as a kids' show, as it drag is a form of clowning Le Gateau Chocolat is big, bearded, and usually deals with some lofty themes that kids respond to. Some wrapped in bold lycra. His children’s show, Duckie, such as bullying, racism and drag performers become a is a retelling of the ugly duckling story set in a circus. body-shaming, and needs caricature. But for me, drag parents to engage with that. serves as the antithesis of He’s part of a new movement where the world of My three-year-old niece that; it allows me to be real, to drag intersects with children’s entertainment and was placed at the heart of it. distract or discombobulate. education; recently we’ve enjoyed Drag Queen Story She had just moved back to You think you're going to Time, where performers dress up to read to kids, England, and, as the only black get this clowning, but you girl in her class, was finding subvert that expectation and the book, The Hips on the Drag Queen Go Swish it hard to settle in school. In and give them honesty and Swish Swish. We caught up with Le Gateau to find Nigeria, she wouldn't have been earnestness. In the joy of out why kids identify with and enjoy the fabulous 'a black girl', just another girl. clowning, your heart and your world of drag, and what it might help them explore However, here she was asked space and your mind are open by other kids why her hair, her to receiving real, emotional “I WAS BORN IN LONDON performed Porgy and Bess nose were different. I wanted content. I kind of stumbled but grew up in Nigeria. I first at Regents Park Opera, and my niece and children like her into making kids shows by stumbled across cabaret in have sung with Basement to see that their stories matter. accident, and it's been a brilliant Brighton, while studying law Jaxx at The Barbican! One of the reasons I chose Mark experience, so I am planning at Sussex University. I’m a drag Duckie was developed at Smith, the choreographer, to make more in the future.” performer, theatre practitioner Colchester Arts Centre, won was because he was deaf. We and opera singer, and allow funding from the Southbank incorporated signing into the Scoff more Gateau at: MANUEL VASON those genres to intersect; I've Centre and debuted in 2016. show so that identity was also legateauchocolat.com : PHOTO 14 AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2020 thegreenparent.co.uk FAMILY / FATHERHOOD
Andy Hamilton relishes the freedom of his kids as his daughter uses the walnut tree to make a new friend
I WROTE LAST TIME ON HOW WE WANT next to a fence and quite close to our our children to become independent and neighbour's house, and when it was only not need us. A week into lockdown my three, I tried to dig it up and give it away seven year old son decided to borrow a bike to save neighbourly relations. This tree from his friend. Within two days he’d taught had other plans, its roots had already himself to ride it, with very little help from stuck right in and wasn’t budging. me. Emma, my partner, asked if I felt robbed Yet this tree has helped both our of the experience of teaching him. Maybe daughter and the three year old for a second or two, but it was replaced boy next door. He stands on stairs with pride. Now I can go cycling with him. leading up our very steep garden It's true. It took me ages to ride a bike, and our daughter climbs up it took me ages to feel secure talking the walnut. Clinging on, and to adults and it took me until I was terrifying me, the agile four late into my twenties until I cycled year old now conducts many for any distance over 10 miles. My a conversation over the fence. It son chats to adults with no might not be ideal, but it means both trouble, in fact he’d perform children can have a seemingly normal for them at the drop of time together and it is a joy to watch. a hat. And, last week we Now that the summer is coming and accidently went on an epic the big pinnate leaves of this walnut are 12 mile bike ride. I say out, they offer shade and on the many hot accidently, only because days we’ve been having; so dictated by we left without a map the tree, this is where we sit and have and got a little lost, a fact our meals. It’s the perfect spot, we I chose to keep from my son get to see the boy next door, we to save his worry. But letting go are shielded from the sun and like that was just what we both other neighbours' eyes, it’s needed and given the current right next to the climbing wall, situation, for the first time since it’s not far from our herb bed, the end of winter, I felt free. wild salad plants are in easy We even stopped and sat on reach and soon, bramble will some grass and ate ice cream. grace our pudding table too. This simple act, frowned upon in the We were gifted this tree by a previous week, felt like a moment local squirrel and the bramble by I’ll never forget. Him lounging against a passing blackbird. These creatures me, sharing stories and jokes. Me feeling have helped furnish our family with not relaxed for the first time in months. It felt ' last week we accidently just food but shelter from the sun and for abundant, nourishing. We were filling up went on an epic 12 mile bike our daughter, some emotional comfort. with something unseen and unsaid that ride. I say accidently, only To think that I want to get rid of that would keep up going for some time. For the perfect tree just to quieten an anxiety. next week every time my mind drifted off it because we left without a There must be trees like this all over had the backdrop of the countryside on that map and got a little lost' the world. Trees that would be perfect if trip. Lush, green and full of birdsong with we only gave them a moment to come the spring sun beaming through leaves. feel like zombies at the end of every day. into their own. I look at my children as It was just after this that he told me, apart Our four year old daughter is a different we eat our dinner and hope that they can from missing one friend in particular, he matter. At one point, she looked up at me again have the space to grow so all can was loving lockdown. We’d found a way to at the dinner table and said, “do you miss appreciate all that they too have to offer. give him just the right amount of freedom your friends too Daddy”. This bought and fun while still being as safe as possible. crashing home a difference between them. Andy Hamilton is a father of two and I’m not sure how long we could keep it She has always been far more gregarious. wild food expert. He is the author of up, as well as both working and offering She had friends all over the place. Luckily, Fermenting Everything (published by home education, but it is great to report we found a way to ease this slightly. Countryman Press) He also runs courses that, for our son at least, we are doing A walnut tree self-seeded in the in his home city of Bristol and you can
ILLUSTRATION JESSICA RAE GORDON ILLUSTRATION something right! Even if me and his mum garden, it was in an awkward place right find out more at thewildgentleman.com.
AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2020 thegreenparent.co.uk 15 FAMILY / OFF GRID
Lucy AitkenRead has an unexpected visitor who ‘brings HIPPY DREAM strengths that open many doors’!
THE FIRST DAY OF QUARANTINE plump, regal and peaceful on the way to the WE made a list of things we could do vets. We were silent and awed as if in the in the coming weeks. Everything was presence of a major celeb. When we scribbled down, even Juno’s suggestion got there the vet took her from us and of “Foraging mushrooms” which seemed said “Great, thank you, good bye!” random considering we hadn’t done We all looked at him blankly, this since she was a baby and there’d said “Oh, we aren’t in a hurry! Will been neither hide nor hair of edible you examine her now? Can we stay?” mushrooms on our land in recent years. and he bemusedly took us all into Lo. The very next day we went the examining room. He decided to mushroom foraging and came back with a keep her in for a while and we pressed basket of gourmet field mushrooms. We our phone number into his palm, “Call got to know all the easily identifiable us if anything happens, okay? CALL US.” edible fungi in our area and each The next morning we turned up again day tried out new ways of cooking and he let us see her and told us about them. I’ve always been terrified how she ate some banana but then he said of eating wild mushies because of “She might be here a while so how about the saying “There are old mushroom you leave it sometime before coming foragers and bold mushroom foragers but back?” laying down some boundaries as there are no old, bold mushroom foragers” if we were professional pigeon stalkers. and it’s obvious which category I’m in with Of all the birds pigeons are known my slap-dash, give-it-all-a-crack, boom- for their remarkable instinct for shack-a-lack approach to life. However, we home, travelling from unknown discovered there are three unmistakable places across thousands of miles to delicious shrooms around here and we find their place of belonging. feasted like medieval peasants for weeks. The last few months have been an The girls seem to have had a huge extremely discombobulating time, huh? mental and emotional growth spurt over The year began with terrifying wild quarantine. They both began to read fires, descending into a global pandemic (much to their grandparent’s relief ) and that utterly changed the experience of armed with the words in her reading books 'We were silent and awed as if human life on earth, and then bounding Ramona did “Angry Writing” - letting me in the presence of a major celeb' into what feels like a new wave of a know she was mad about something I’d movement for racial justice. It feels like done. It was fairly mild compared to my with the rapidity of a curious squirrel. the closing of a loop - we are dismantling friend’s seven year old who wrote fifty But these days they’ll elect to solve the colonialism that gave rise to the lines about how how cross she was with sums for a whole day, carrying the pages globalised capitalism that created the him, filling a whole page with “Gareth with them in the car, to the cafe, to a climate crisis and a new era of pandemics. is a fukin idiet, Gareth is a fukin ideit, friend’s house. Last week they found a I have a beautiful little book written Gareth is a fukin idiet.” And people wonder drawing channel on Youtube and from by New Zealand poet Barry Brailsford. how unschoolers will learn to write! nine in the morning till nine at night they It describes the spiritual significance As quarantine lifted we’ve tried to sat and sketched animal after animal. of this country’s flora and fauna and of maintain some of the simplicity. Ramona Instead of driving all around the place to the kereruu he says “If Pigeon has come and Juno have entered a phase where different activities these days we just have to rest beside you it is an important they are able to spend whole days knee two days a week of planned group stuff. time of reconciliation and joy. This deep in a topic. Having spent so much On Tuesdays around 12 kids come to the messenger from the higher realms brings time researching self-directed learning yurt for our self directed learning collective strengths that open many doors. It is I’d always counted on this happening - I and on Thursdays we have “adventure day” the time of the heart, a time to trust.” knew, in theory, that interrupting a child’s where we explore a new hike or patch of We are being reminded to come home learning with a bell to send them off to forest with a huge gang of home edders. to ourselves, to have faith in our intuition. the next lesson as happens in school At the last adventure day a kereruu, To show up radically and unapologetically was not aligned with a child’s natural Aotearoa’s native wood pigeon, flopped out for this new world we find ourselves in. way of sinking deeply into something. of a tree at Tim’s feet. Despite her majestic However, Ramona has never been a one purple and turquoise plumage she couldn’t Lucy blogs at lulastic.co.uk. Read about her
for it, moving from one activity to the next fly any more and she simply sat in the car adventures in our next edition, out in Sept. JESSICA RAE GORDON ILLUSTRATION
16 AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2020 thegreenparent.co.uk FAMILY / MOTHERHOOD
Lisa Jane muses how to create structure in the midst TWO MUMMIES of lockdown uncertainty
‘WAIT A MINUTE!’ I CALLED OUT TO Our saving grace was our allotment. We Ben, my head buried in the boot of the quickly established that escaping to the only car hunting for sun block. But he was green space we had available to us would already gone, as always, running away form part of our daily routine. Before the down the path to our plot. To him the boys came to live with us, the allotment was heat of the day did not matter, and a big part of our lives. Growing food was a sunblock could wait as he excitedly way for us to relax, but this was something commenced his usual daily rounds that was very difficult to maintain during of the allotment with a commentary the early stages of the adoption placement. of our vegetable progress. This was We had always planned that this year usually a summary of which seedlings would be very allotment focussed, but had survived the slugs overnight and we had been preparing ourselves for the which had now been reduced to empty reality that the time spent there would be dark patches of compost ‘Mummy, limited to the weekends, and the amount the squash have been munched!’ He of actual work that we would get done called, his mouth down at the corners. I with two small kids running around shared in his disappointment but then might not amount to much. What he shrieked ‘But our broad beans we found during lockdown was look good don’t they?’ It never that we now had time. Time fails to make us smile, along to spend there everyday with other allotmenteers as the kids ran around tending their own plots, the and got some exercise interest and excitement he and helped us plant seeds, finds in the things that water seedlings and share we’ve been growing. in the magical experience The most important of watching our food grow. thing on his mind every Spending time constantly day is the progress of our in each other’s pockets has its berry bushes ‘Will they be ups and downs, and Rebecca and ready tomorrow?’ he says I had to be even more conscious of our regularly, peering at the red own mental wellbeing and self care. currants, still hard and green. On the good days though we reflected Like most families, we had anticipated on the opportunity we had to continue a busy summer with working, holidays and our attachment to the boys, to relive those primary school prep for Ben. We expected 'We quickly established that first few months of placement, cocooning to have lots of things to do and lots of in our own bubble, but with the added people to see. What we did not expect was escaping to the only green space benefit of now actually knowing and to have lots of unexpected time at home. we had available to us would understanding the boys and their triggers. In the wake of the lockdown we had some form part of our daily routine' When the lockdown was first announced challenges on our hands. It did not escape we tried to focus on the fact that we were us how lucky we were, after all we were with a fresh wave of disruption, giving lucky to be together and that we were all in healthy and safe and had an abundance of them some sense of structure was crucial. good health. As the weeks went on and we time home with our children, and without The sudden end to certain daily events saw the value of being outside and growing the added pressure of homeschooling. But, that we had been used to, such as nursery, food with our kids, we realised that we like many, what we had been given was work, visits to local cafes and family meant were so lucky to have the opportunity to a curveball which meant our lives and, that we had a void where our routines had realise our dream of giving our children most importantly, the boys' structure and once been. Living in a small two bedroom a closer connection to the food they eat. routine had been taken from us. When flat with no outside space with two very This ‘new normal’ still endures, but we the boys came to live with us, the first small children, compounded the challenge. have hope that when all this is over, thing we were told we needed to do was On top of this our eldest, Ben, really our children’s new found relationship to give them the ability to predict their struggles with change of any kind and with with food will be the lasting legacy. lives. They would not have been used to the sudden change of pace we had to work day to day normalities in their early life, really hard to build back in some structure Lisa lives in the South West with her
ILLUSTRATION JESSICA RAE GORDON ILLUSTRATION so after making the move to a new family in the wake of this massive disruption. wife and two adopted children.
AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2020 thegreenparent.co.uk 17 18 AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2020 thegreenparent.co.uk Kids are not COLOUR BLIND How can we dismantle racism in our families WORDS Dr. Pragya Agarwal
HILE WE LIVE IN A Here are some ideas based on age: multicultural diverse society, race is still a TODDLERS: Children are not colour-blind. very sensitive topic They start developing a sense of race from of conversation. Few the age of six months or so; research shows parentsW would consider themselves or they look for longer at an unfamiliar face their children racist, with its connotations from a different race than at someone from of intentional, angry, or mean behaviour their own race. Children start categorising against different groups and using power-based of people. But even when ‘In telling our hierarchies in play based we are not intentionally on the social cues they racist, we can make children ‘race pick up from all the judgements based on skin people around them, not colour and perceived race. doesn’t matter’ just their parents. While Race is such an ingrained and raising them 30-month-olds show a social construct that we preference for children of can never truly dissociate to be colour blind, the same race when shown ourselves from it - people photographs of unfamiliar are socially conditioned to we’re actually white and black children, assign values to someone creating more demonstrating in-group based on their skin colour. bias, the majority of By dismissing or keeping harm than good’ children, both black and silent about our race and white, start choosing white others' we reinforce the notion that people playmates by the time they are 36 months are not born equal and allow children to old. Bringing a diverse set of books into make their own judgement and inferences their lives with characters from different about racial equality. By saying “everyone cultures, reading stories set in different is the same”, we deny our children their parts of the world, talking explicitly about own racial and cultural experiences. We how people have different skin colours also dismiss the fact that racism is still a is an important first step. When a young huge issue in many parts of this world, and child notices skin colour for the first white-wash many significant events of racial time, some parents find it a very tricky crimes and segregation in history. Adults conversation, becoming awkward and need to be doing this learning and work shushing their children, tiptoeing around in order to raise children who are actively notions of difference. Use any questions anti-racist, and conscious of racial justice around difference as a stepping-stone to and equality. So how do we go about raising conversations around our bodies, reassert anti-racist and compassionate children? that difference does not make us unequal. >
AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2020 thegreenparent.co.uk 19 AGES 5-8 YEARS: This is the age children start forming a deeper sense of injustice in their own lives so it’s a good opportunity to start drawing parallels to the wider world even without a formal conversation around racism. Now is the time to introduce the history around slavery and colonialism, and the concept of how some people in the past felt right to conquer and rule other people, and why this is problematic. Kids might ask questions about their own or their friends’ skin or hair colour being different so a conversation around what makes us all different, but how we are still the same as human beings is important. Children start forming a stronger sense of in-group and out-group around now, so we need to make sure we’re aware of our own unconscious biases and that we’re not behaving in a discriminatory manner,- either implicitly or explicitly - towards others in front of our children. Books that talk about friendships, and the value of kindness can help too. When children watch something about racial violence, it’s important to speak with them in an honest manner, sensitive to their age, rather than trying to dismiss any questions that come up. Such conversations should be normalised.
AGES 8-12 YEARS: At this age children can be introduced to the notions of power and privilege and how that creates difference, and why people might treat others in a mean way. Discussing their own privilege in terms of education, race, class, etc can help children unpick what they can do to help others who might not be as privileged. With the ubiquity of technology, children pick up more than we realise, including stereotypes around black, brown and Hispanic people which might result in name- calling and bullying in the playground. At this age it’s important to discuss why jokes about the way people talk, or look are not acceptable. Active engagement racial justice. Home-based projects around children to protests so that they have an is necessary rather than waiting for the slavery and colonialism are crucial in awareness of how we can not only be child to come to us and ask questions. helping children understand their own non-racist but actively anti-racist and sense of self and identity. In forming their an ally is important. Discussing politics TEENAGERS: Now, young people are identity, teenagers often try to consciously as well as supporting them in thinking ready to tackle injustice head on, become separate themselves from others, resulting critically about the information they involved in protests and be more active in deeper stereotypes and generalisations absorb from the media and friends around and vocal against any inequalities they about people different to them. These have them, especially from social media, is perceive, see or hear. At this age you can to be actively questioned and dismantled really important as information becomes introduce more books, both fiction and because such stereotypes are often the basis ubiquitous and they’re bombarded with non-fiction, that talk about social and for prejudiced behaviours. Accompanying fake news from social media channels.
20 AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2020 thegreenparent.co.uk ‘Kids might ask questions about their own or their friends’ skin or hair colour being different so a conversation around what makes us all different, but how we are still the same as human beings is important’
have to start talking about racism with their children from a very young age, as soon as they feel any sort of discrimination NEVER TOO or bullying in the playground. We live YOUNG TO START in a multicultural world but there is still racial inequity, and the consequences of A simple reading list racism and racial inequality are real. In for socially aware kids telling our children “race doesn’t matter" and raising them to be colour blind, we’re actually creating more harm than good. A Is for Activist We’re not educating them in the way by Innosanto Nagara racial inequalities work, and we’re telling Tiny board book them that the experiences of a person of with colourful, colour aren’t valid. We’re also dismissing engaging illustrations their lived experience. In choosing not to prove that you’re never too young teach children that their skin colour might to start being socially aware afford them privilege, we’re making them less socially aware and empathetic towards Amazing Grace others who don’t share those privileges. by Mary Hoffman It’s not enough to tell our children that A powerful story that everyone is equal. We have to be actively questions where racist anti-racist, particularly as they’re growing behaviour comes from up in a society where nationalistic identities and politics increasingly take Stamped: Racism, centre stage. We are different, and still Antiracism and You we are equal. No one should be treated by Jason Reynolds differently or have different rights and A book that spans privileges just because of their skin history from 1415 colour, or their racial category. Saying to present day and this to children actually makes them feel takes a hard hitting more comfortable in their own identity look at our culture and what we and their own uniqueness. And that can do to stamp out racism strong sense of self- identity is vital for a child’s mental and physical well-being. Noughts and Crosses by Malorie Blackman HESE ARE LOOSE AGE A love story for older categories: as parents, we know Pragya is an award-winning author of readers where a black our children and their ability 'SWAY: Unravelling Unconscious Bias' that ruling class control to handle such topics. While was Guardian Book of the Week. She is a the white underclass we often underestimate the behavioural and data scientist and after a Tdepth of our children’s understanding, long stint as a senior academic in US and This Book Is Anti-Racist there isn’t a one- size- fits- all approach UK Universities, now writes and speaks for by Tiffany Jewell to discussing race. White parents usually various national and international media 20 lessons on how to have the luxury and privilege to not bring outlets about gender and racial equality. wake up and take action up race and racism with their children, Pragya has three children, and she lives in while black and other parents of colour the north-west of England with her family.
AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2020 thegreenparent.co.uk 21 Making the BOND Zoe Masters of oschaslings.com writes about soft touch and how it reduces stress and anxiety
Why is touch so help them with their daily lives and while important to an infant? babies are young they thrive from this Soft touch is important because it close contact with their primary caregivers. stimulates oxytocin in both you and All of the extra interactions from their your baby. Oxytocin is known as the 'love primary caregivers will help them to build hormone' because it encourages feelings of confidence as they grow and they will love and bonding and reduces stress and likely be positively affected as they develop. anxiety. Positive touch also reassures baby However, lock-down has also meant that that you are there and will be responsive babies can't be socialised as they normally to their needs. And it encourages them would with other people. It's hard to know to feel that the world is a safe space and the long term impact at this point, but it that their needs will be met, which builds could potentially affect social skills as well their confidence and as immune health as allows their brain to babies are not being develop optimally. ̒babywearing passed around as they normally would. What are the encourages babies Unfortunately, post benefits of to feel that the natal depression babywearing? seems to be on the rise There are so many! world is a safe as parents struggle Aside from the benefits to adjust without of oxytocin release and space and that their their normal support more opportunities network and other for positive touch, needs will be met ̓ anxieties which carrying your baby have come to the in a sling allows your hands to be free surface through such an unsettling time. so that you can care for others; other This is another reason why the benefits children, parents, partners and even of babywearing are so important. get some work or housework done if you are juggling everything at once. It Any advice for parents allows your baby to absorb everything wanting to lessen the impact you're doing and saying which aids their that social distancing might development too. Babywearing can help have on their young children? with reflux relief as you carry them upright We have found that our kids, who are a and the gentle motion of you moving little older now, are really missing their around can also help them to settle. friends. We go out for walks with another family who live locally and they can safely How do you think our play in the woods together. They don't current situation (lockdown need to have a huge variety of people and social distancing) might to play with, just having these regular impact on our babies? interactions in person or digitally seems to I think more parents are using slings to be enough for them to feel connected. >>
22 AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2020 thegreenparent.co.uk FAMILY / BABYWEARING
AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2020 thegreenparent.co.uk 23 FAMILY / BABYWEARING
̒For babies, being cocooned in a baby sling, wrap or carrier will remind them of being in the womb ̓
Shabs Kwofie at speaks about the probably means that they get even more of amawrap.com mummy and daddy than they normally do! amazing ways that skin-to-skin contact benefits our babies It’s important to focus on self-care for parents, because if you are ok, then baby Why is touch so of being in the womb. They are fully will thrive. What are you doing to make important to an infant? supported, enclosed and warm, and they sure that you are going to come out of Skin-to-skin contact allows for certain can hear your heartbeat and the rhythm of this lockdown, emotionally healthy? Can exchanges between parent and baby - your breath, much like being back in the you spend more time in the garden or hormonal, scents, antibodies, etc. This womb. When awake, babies can take is there a park nearby? Can you carve also allow the mother’s body in the world with a “quiet out time for yourself every day? to act as an "incubator" and alertness”. This means that adjust its temperature based YOUR with no stress, no adrenaline Any advice for parents on the needs of the baby, STORIES or cortisol flooding the wanting to lessen the impact thus regulating the baby’s system, they are more able that social distancing might temperature. It can also How has to learn and take things in, have on their young children? regulate baby’s heartbeat babywearing and the “building blocks” I think young people are hit just as hard for the same reason. supported you in their brain are able to be as us but in different ways - for us we Oxytocin is also released, these last four built more easily. This in have had to mentally and physically which is a hormone also months? itself means that they show adjust our entire lifestyles, but we have referred to as the “love better hormonal responses the advantage of knowing why we are drug”, and helps you Emily Chorley to stress and better thinking doing so. Our little ones may not be able and baby to bond more Being able to go off skills later on in life. to connect the logic to their feelings. And deeply. As is prolactin, roading with both human touch and skin to skin contact is which produces milk, thus my little ones How do you think so important to both babies and kids. increasing chances for Natalie Harwood our current situation All we can do, in this time of uncertainty, breastfeeding success. All of The freedom to (lockdown and social is keep their emotional “cup filled”, ie this through simple touch. explore without distancing) might make sure we are giving them all the Aren’t our bodies incredible? a pushchair impact on our babies? affection that they would be receiving Christina Crook Babies will be fine as long from elsewhere too! Cuddle them through What are the benefits Exploring new paths as they have their basic the uncertainty and the explanations, of babywearing? in our local woods needs met. Babies need the missing other loved ones, and the For babies, being cocooned that we could never security, touch, warmth, frustrations. And let’s be honest - the in a baby sling, wrap or navigate with a pram and nourishment. And cuddles will probably be pretty helpful for carrier will remind them the great thing is that this your own physical and mental health too.
24 AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2020 thegreenparent.co.uk ADVERTISEMENT PROMOTION
Search 'Clan Oscha' community would be there to join the to help her realise her vision. community When Oscha released its first woven wraps things quickly grew as babywearers from around the world excitedly discovered Oscha’s colourful, yet elegant aesthetic. It was the online sling community who really spread the love for the new company and that is why community remains central to Oscha mission. Today, you can get involved by searching ‘Clan Oscha’ on Facebook, where you can ask advice for your next sling or even collaborate with like-minded parents to come up with new designs through Oscha’s pre-orders! Oscha continues to handcraft their slings and carriers in the solar-powered Babywearing in Times of Crisis: Scottish workshop. Made with responsibly source yarns How online communities brought calm during lockdown and zero waste, their ethical slings are the perfect way SCHA HAVE BEEN see our customers in Europe and highs and lows of working from to start your babywearing crafting baby around the world being affected home with small children - the story. oschaslings.com slings in Scotland by lockdowns, school closures Clan soon became an invaluable for 10 years. That’s and concerns for the safety of resource. The Clan also helps 10 years of happy their families, we immediately to keep things lighthearted, by We asked Clan Oparents and babies snuggled up moved our small team’s focus sharing uplifting pictures of Oscha what Oscha in their British woven, ethically to our online community. Clan their children in colourful slings means to them: made slings and they have the Oscha has always been a place and coming together over a community to show for it. for us to chat, share and develop love of babywearing, members “The friends I’ve When mum, Zoe, started ideas with our customers and of Oscha’s online community made, being able to the company in 2010 she our community, but in the midst were able to keep their spirits take my beautiful couldn’t have dreamed of the of the upheaval around COVID high during a time of crisis. daughter anywhere, incredible online community we saw that we could provide Online community groups finding the new ‘me’ in her brand would foster over the an important community have always been at the heart motherhood.” Hannah next decade. With over 28,000 space in this difficult time.” of Oscha. Zoe was already members in their community- Zoe and the Oscha team saw involved in online wrapping “Whatever you need to run ‘Oscha International’ that they could provide a safe groups when her twin boys were accomplish: There is an Facebook group and nearly place for parents to share their born just 16 months after her Oscha for that!” Sofie 9,000 parents in ‘Clan Oscha’, experiences and for Oscha, daughter. Wraps soon became a “‘Ethical’ is such an Oscha’s own parenting and and other parents, to provide day-to-day lifesaver for her, as important aspect of wrapping Facebook group, their support. Whether it did her membership what makes Oscha online spaces have long been was sharing Zoe’s of forums such as amazing.” Helen places of support and friendship experience flexi- Natural Mamas. for thousands of parents from schooling her Zoe soon saw that all over the world. So it seemed children, the Clan with her combined only natural that when the sharing their passions for design COVID-19 crisis hit and the ‘top tips’ for and babywearing world was sent into lockdown, homeschooling she could create that these online communities or simply giving something unique would become networks for parents a for babywearers, advice and reassurance. forum to and she knew Zoe says, “When we started to discuss the that her online
AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2020 thegreenparent.co.uk 25
THE BAG? Learning through everyday play
HE GAME “WHAT’S IN THE BAG?” TIME TO PLAY reach out, curl their hands around it provides endless opportunities for Early play, with gentle encouragement and pick it up, they need to be able to warm, sensitive interactions and and reassurance from you, nurtures control and coordinate their movement for making stimulating discoveries curiosity, confidence and self-esteem. It with what they see. This is known as with your baby. Each time your even helps your baby begin to manage hand-eye coordination. Handling objects Tbaby sees, smells, touches, hears or tastes their emotions. The chance to explore refines their fine motor skills. As their something new, vital connections are formed everyday objects gives your baby the coordination improves, they will form in their brain. Hiding a toy or everyday object skills needed to gain independence. a pincer grip between their thumb and in a bag and giving your baby time to discover fingers, which is essential for skills like and explore it, stimulates all of your baby’s Physical tooth brushing or catching a ball. senses. Use these ideas to help your baby BIG AND SMALL MOVEMENTS - Physically CROSSING THE MIDLINE - When babies explore, learn and enjoy social interactions. exploring objects strengthens muscles follow a moving object across their field and helps your baby discover how to of vision or reach across with the right Before you begin to play What’s in the control and co-ordinate their body. Your hand to something on the left side, they Bag? follow these steps to help you baby gains control of the larger, “gross cross the midline – an imaginary line get the most from this activity. motor” movements of the head, body down your baby's middle separating the and limbs first, then learns to control the right and left sides of the body. Crossing SIT Sit in a safe comfortable space together, smaller “fine motor” movements of their this line coordinates both sides of the 1 giving your baby as much freedom as hands, feet and fingers. Mastering these brain, which helps your baby to use possible to handle the object and move around. skills and learning how to balance and opposite sides of the body at the same Try keeping your baby’s toes bare – babies love adjust their position leads to crawling, time, aiding skills such as crawling, and to explore with their feet as well as their hands. walking, running and jumping. eventually helping to coordinate eye EXPLORE Let your baby explore with all HAND-EYE COORDINATION - Newborns movements to follow words across a page. 2 their senses. In particular, babies love to have a grasp reflex, whereby they explore with their mouths. Your baby’s gums automatically grip objects placed in Awareness and tongue are very sensitive and tell them the hands. When this fades, they learn SPACE AND DISTANCE - Playing with a lot about how an object feels, smells and to pick up objects at will. First, a baby everyday objects helps your baby to tastes. Exploring this way also strengthens follows an object with their eyes. To develop spatial awareness – a sense of > the mouth muscles needed for speech. WATCH Try not to direct play. Your 3 baby is naturally curious and will feel HOW TO PLAY your baby to feel the whether the object safe and secure to explore with you close Each time you object inside the bag makes a sound. Does it by giving them your quiet attention. open the bag… before opening it. Try rustle, rattle or jingle? REASSURE Follow your baby’s cues. ANTICIPATE - Express to guess the shapes DISCOVER - Help your 4 If they appear unsure, give a smile or interest about what’s in and sizes to help your baby to open the bag and encouraging word. If your baby holds out an the bag and convey the baby think about these discover what’s inside. object, or drops it and looks for your reaction, sense of excitement to different properties. Your baby is learning take it, saying thank you. You could have a help your baby anticipate LISTEN - Before opening how curiosity and similar object to explore alongside your baby. what is coming next. the bag together, help investigation can lead to STOP Don’t worry if your baby isn’t EXPLORE - Encourage your baby investigate the reward of discovery. 5 interested. Stay tuned in to your baby’s feelings and try returning to the activity later.
AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2020 thegreenparent.co.uk 27 FAMILY / BABIES
> where their body is in space and in relation to objects around Communication them. When reaching for an BODY LANGUAGE - Body language object, your baby also has to judge is your baby’s very first language. distance and think about how far As you watch your baby play, notice to move to reach their goal – a how they use their eyes to show skill needed for maths later on. interest in something, glancing BODY AWARENESS - As between you and the object in a coordination and movements meaningful way. You can show are refined, your baby your mutual interest by following develops something known the direction of your babies gaze. as proprioception – the sense BUILDING VOCABULARY - Naming of knowing where different and describing objects helps your parts of the body are – which baby to form an image of it in their enables your baby to carry out mind and to link the word to the actions, such as picking up a cup object. Your baby is developing and drinking from it, without their memory and building up needing to stop, look and think. a bank of words. You will see RIGHT OR LEFT? - As your this recognition in action when baby explores objects, they your baby starts to use objects in may use either hand before appropriate ways during play, such developing a preference for as trying to put a sock on their foot. one hand or the other. Research has found that immersing babies and young Understanding IDEAS FOR OBJECTS TO PUT IN THE BAG: children in language, even ideas OBJECT PERMANENCE - and words that are beyond their Playing peekaboo with objects Ball; Stick; Paintbrush; Sock; Bath Toy; understanding, helps to develop such as scarves, or putting an a wide vocabulary, which is object in the bag and taking Scarf; Cardboard Box; Paper; Soft Toy; linked to complex thinking and it out again, teachers your Wooden Spoon; Building Blocks; Cups is the foundation for doing well baby that when people or in every subject at school. objects are hidden, they are still there. FIRST SEQUENCES - Playing “What’s in FIRST SOUNDS - Babies often babble This understanding, known as object the bag?” regularly helps your baby to contentedly to themselves while they are permanence, usually develops in the first anticipate what is coming next. As well playing, exercising their mouth muscles year. You’ll recognise this developmental as being fun, this also means your baby as they practice the sounds needed for stage when they look for a covered up starts to recognise the sequence of events speech development. Your baby might object or one that has rolled away. and develop a sense of order, a basic also want to “talk” to you. You can have a MANAGING EMOTIONS - Playing with concept that forms the foundation for wonderful chat without using real words objects helps your baby to persevere learning about numbers and counting. at all. When your baby looks at you with an and build resilience, for example, inviting twinkle in their eye and a tentative by having another go at building up Drawing and writing sound, repeat the sound then leave a gap blocks. Your baby learns about reactions FIRST MARKS - Investigating objects and for their response. This simple interaction and emotions from observing your encouraging messy play, for example helps your baby understand the turn- face, tone of voice and gestures. splodging paint on paper, gives your taking patterns in real conversations. CAUSE AND EFFECT - During baby lots of opportunities to start POSITIVE INTERACTIONS - You may exploration, your baby sees how actions making their first marks. As your baby find that your baby is particularly have consequences – cause and effect engages in spontaneous mark making, responsive if you speak in the gentle – so a shaker makes a noise when it’s they gradually acquire the strength, fine sing-song voice known as “parentese”. moved, or a cup empties if tipped. motor skills and coordination needed These first conversations teach your to hold and direct a crayon or pencil. baby about socialising and help them Maths LEARNING ABOUT MEANING - When you to develop the social skills they will EARLY MATHS - Maths is about so much recognise and value these early marks need later on. Your baby will break more than numbers and counting. It is you help your baby understand that their eye contact and turn away when they through investigating objects that your actions created the marks and, eventually, need a rest so watch out for this cue. baby begins to understand ideas such as that their marks have a meaning. Although size, shape, weight, volume and quantity. it will be a while before your baby forms Your baby also starts to discover the real letters or connect sounds with words, MORE INSPIRATION various properties of objects, for example, these early marks of the first steps towards READ Play and Learn with your Baby a ball will roll away but a sock won’t. the process of drawing and writing. Forward by Nigel Clarke £14.99 DK
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Raise a BOOKWORM When to introduce books to your child to ensure a lifelong love of reading by Alex Johnson
30 AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2020 thegreenparent.co.uk T’S NEVER TOO SOON TO START READING TOGETHER DON’T GO TOO FAST reading together, even while your Before you start, make sure there are no As your child gets a little older, instead of baby is still in the womb. Research other distractions in the room, such as jumping straight in, it’s better to chat about indicates that reading to your child the radio, television or other screens. You the book’s title and what’s on the cover. before they are born (especially want this to be dedicated reading time, While you’re reading, don’t be afraid to stop during the third trimester) not not something to be rushed through or the flow every now and again to comment Ionly appears to relax them, but might interrupted to deal with texts and emails, on what’s happening or draw attention to also help with early language learning. which can wait until you’ve finished. a picture – pictures can tell a story as vivid Don’t get too excited about giving birth to However much you’ve been looking as the words on the page. Richard Scarry’s a baby genius, though, because it’s more forward to reading The Wind in the Willows books are especially good for looking a matter of stimulation and help with to them, that’s a bit much for a six-month- at closely, with plenty of action in every brain development – playing music is old (I read bits of Samuel Pepys’s diary to square inch. Writer and illustrator Rob also a good idea, but doesn’t ensure they my eldest to try to soothe him to sleep – Biddulph’s books are also a treat for little will be writing operas at playschool. he has not turned into a Pepys fanatic in eyes to examine. As well as plenty of detail Once they do emerge, you can start later life). It’s better to start off with board in the illustrations, they feature accessible with rhymes and simple stories. Obviously books: wordless books made out of cloth or rhyming texts and plenty of opportunities they will not understand everything sturdy cardboard. Our earliest ones were to join in and guess what happens next. His you are saying, but they will enjoy the essentially half a dozen pages of colourful first book, Blown Away, is particularly lovely. sound of your voice and the images from or black-and-white patterns and shapes, Indeed, research with three- to five- books you are showing them. They will with bits hanging off them to pull or rub year-olds indicates that going slow can also learn how books function and will to make a noise. All three of my children be very effective, and that pausing to give certainly want to grab them – especially loved these, and they are certainly good your child time to predict what word is if they make a noise or have a mirror for showing how books can be pleasurable coming next – and then pausing again after – and probably nibble them too. items to enjoy from a very early age. speaking the word, to let them consider it >
BLACK LIVES IN BOOKS It’s important that you try to offer books that are diverse so that children can see themselves and their peers mirrored in what they read, through characters who are similar to them or issues which are immediately relevant to their day-to-day lives. The Centre for Literacy in Primary Education’s Reflecting Realities report is the first UK study to look at representation in children’s literature, and was first published in 2018. The aim of the study is to quantify and evaluate ethnic representation and diversity in children’s publishing in the UK. Of the 11,011 children’s books published in the UK in 2018, only 7 per cent featured black, Asian and minority ethnic (BAME) characters, up from 4 per cent in 2017. Of these books only 4 per cent had a BAME main character, up from 1 per cent in 2017. Over a quarter of the books submitted only featured BAME presence in the form of background characters. BAME pupils make up 33.1 per cent of the school population in England. Consider race, gender, social status, disability & religion. Look especially for work from authors who write about these issues from their own first-hand experience.
AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2020 thegreenparent.co.uk 31 FAMILY / PARENTING
single session (you might even read them twice or three times in one go), but others might take a week or even a month. And of course you don’t have to read just one title: you can read a few shorter books at one sitting, or a short book and part of a longer book – any mix you like! REREADING It’s good to get children to take part in the reading with you, so ask them what they think, or get them to join in with lines they remember or act out certain parts when you’re rereading favourite titles. When I read The Gruffalo by Julia Donaldson to my boys, I always used to pause to let them finish a stanza. We read Each Peach Pear Plum by Allan Ahlberg so many times that in the end it became a feat of memory. I would turn the “It’s good to get children to take part in the pages and they would speak the accompanying descriptions reading with you, so ask them what they think, or which they’d learned by heart. get them to join in with lines they remember” Sometimes I would deliberately get the order wrong so that they > improves the ability to when you’ve run out of accents. with them rather than at them. had the opportunity to scold me remember and use the word But in general, if it feels like Try to read for at least ten and show me how it ought to go. again in a different scenario. you’re reading too slowly, minutes a day (though don’t Studies of language As a general rule, in the same you’re probably actually going beat yourself up if you miss a acquisition show that children way that you usually need to at about the right pace. day or can only do less than whose parents read them talk more slowly when you’re Slowing down is also helpful that). If you can do more, that’s the same book over and over speaking in public to make since it allows children more great, but start at an achievable again are better not only at yourself clearly understood, time to understand unusual figure so that it becomes a picking up new words, but also don’t go too fast. Conversational or old-fashioned words and regular habit and take it from understanding them, compared speed is faster than audiobook complicated passages. As a there. Even ten minutes a to children who moved on to speed so you should aim for trainee journalist, the first day is more than an hour a new titles quickly. Research the latter, especially when lesson I was taught when week. If you make reading a also indicates that when you start and are The writing was regular part of your children’s children reread books, how less familiar with YOUR to think like a bedtime routine at a young they talk about them becomes the characters STORIES reader. Similarly, age, you yourself may also find more sophisticated as they and the action. when you’re the later part of the day more gain a better understanding Sometimes you’ll reading out manageable when it comes to of their complexities. What is your want to speed up loud, think like turning out the lights. The Book So grin and bear it, and to add excitement favourite first a listener – your Trust recognises this and has although you’ll be relieved to the story, of book for toddlers? son or daughter some excellent suggestions on when you can move on again, course, or slow Gemma Cazarez doesn’t want this its website as part of its Bath, it’s worth keeping some down where it’s Each Peach Pear to be a broadcast Book and Bed campaign. favourites around in case warranted, and Plum and Peepo, performance; If you’re reading a long book, they fancy revisiting them. you can also both by Janet and they’ll enjoy it don’t be tempted to work out adjust how fast Allan Ahlberg more if there’s how many pages you’re getting the characters Janet Lavender plenty of through a night, and how long MORE INSPIRATION you’re acting Brown Bear Brown interaction and it’s therefore going to take you, READ How to Give Your Child out speak, a Bear by Eric Carle it feels like you’re in case it puts you both off. a Lifelong Love of Reading by helpful variant doing something Some books you’ll read in a Alex Johnson (£12.99 CLPE)
32 AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2020 thegreenparent.co.uk FAMILY / HOMELIFE
Meet the Author
far too much. I was stuck in a romantic ideal that to be the best mum you should have a gleaming kitchen, a rosy-cheeked GET ORGANISED child and be wearing white jeans. Of Gemma Bray tells Hannah Hiles how to keep your course, the reality was very different and I was trying to over-compensate. house under control in just 30 minutes a day I hadn’t been seeing friends – and we know that’s so important for our F YOU FEEL LIKE YOUR HOUSE Can you explain the mental health – and fortunately I and your life spiralled out of control Organised Mum Method managed to rein myself in and realise during lockdown, you might briefly? Why does it work? that I needed to do things differently. want to give the Organised Mum It’s an eight-week rolling cleaning method, I developed a way of compressing the Method (TOMM) a try. Of course, which builds on what you did the previous cleaning so that it didn’t leak into my whole Iit’s not just for mums – although 98 per week. Each day Monday to Thursday is day. It was hard to stick to it because I was cent of founder Gemma Bray’s followers allotted a room – living room, bedrooms, used to “grazing” all day with cleaning, but are women – and it promises to get your hall and stairs, and kitchen – and you I forced myself to get it done in 30 minutes. home clean and clutter-free in just 30 do 30 minutes and then stop. Every And because it worked I stuck to it. That minutes a day (with weekends off ). Friday you tackle a different zone in was 14 years ago and I still keep to it. The former doula came up with TOMM your house, so everywhere gets a deeper I find that a lot of people who come to the after the birth of her first child 14 years clean every eight weeks, and there are a method from over-cleaning struggle to put ago and has followed it ever since. few light jobs that you do every day. a full stop on housework. Many people also Gemma, who has three sons, now has I believe the reason it works is because it’s find they clean the same thing over and over almost 200,000 followers on Instagram, simple and doesn’t over-complicate things. – and this was true for me too. My thing was a podcast, an app, and a book called The hoovering but I wasn’t moving the furniture Organised Mum Method, with her second How did you come up with it? around and really getting it done, I was just book, The Organised Time Technique, It was out of necessity for myself! I had going over the same places. With TOMM you due to be published in September. just had my first baby and I was cleaning know the whole house is being covered. >
AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2020 thegreenparent.co.uk 33 FAMILY / HOMELIFE
trying to get the oven clean with bicarb and water you’ll be there a year and a day, but with these liners you just rinse them under the tap. My favourite thing is still hoovering. It’s not a messy job and you can see the impact straightaway.
Tell us about your new book! TOMM was always a small part of a much bigger thing. When I was pregnant with my second baby and when he was a newborn my first marriage broke down. I was running a business, looking after two children and suddenly doing things on top that I didn’t expect, like sorting out finances and dealing with solicitors. I was using the method and realised how successful compartmentalising my time was, not just with the cleaning. Basically the new book is TOMM for your life. It’s “how to get your life running like clockwork”, looking at what’s serving you, what’s dragging you down. “People who are starting from a place of complete It’s focused towards the chaos usually find it clicks in week three or four” modern woman and will help you audit your life and time so It’s become a bit of a followers are female and the like two steps forward and that you are left with the things phenomenon – what majority have young children. A one step back. It is definitely you need to do and the things do you make of that? lot have children under two and slow progress, and I struggled that you want to do – and how It’s really weird! It’s amazing they are craving what I craved with that in the beginning, to do that without feeling guilty. but also shocking to me. It – to find that balance and not but that’s the whole point. was just a private thing that lose themselves in motherhood. Once things are under control friends and family used to rib you just have to keep going MORE INSPIRATION me about until my oldest son Where should someone and keep up the momentum, READ Dig deeper into the dared me to share it about start if they want and you’ll have it licked. method and download three years ago. At that time no to get their house handy free check lists one was really talking about under control? What is your least on Gemma’s website at cleaning on Instagram. It was I say start in one of the main favourite household theorganisedmum.blog all holidays, models and jetset rooms of the house, like the task and how do you JOIN There are more than lifestyles. I was a stay-at-home kitchen or the living room. I make it easier? And 93,000 members of the official mum and I thought “who is would start in the kitchen. You your favourite? TeamTOMM Facebook group going to want to see me talking don’t even have to do the whole One hundred per cent it’s the – join them at facebook.com/ about mops?”. I thought people room. Just choose one drawer or oven. I detest cleaning the groups/theorganisedmumgroup would think I was sad and that one cupboard and get started. oven. If there is one thing that LISTEN Gemma posts a daily it would fizzle out after three People who are starting I recommend people to buy 30-minute playlist on Spotify months. It started slow but from a place of complete for their house, it’s reusable (search theorganisedmum) after six months it picked up. chaos usually find it clicks in oven liners. They are so cheap, and co-hosts a regular podcast Ninety-eight per cent of my week three or four. It can feel only about a fiver. If you’re called Life Laundry.
34 AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2020 thegreenparent.co.uk BABIES / NAPPIES We Love
1. 2. 3. 4. 6. 7.
1. Pop in Nappy in These pocket nappies This cloth nappy fits swim nappy for a super are highly absorbent Sunshine, £17.95, have a pocket at the from 10lbs-35lbs. a comfy fit. 100% and soft, making them closeparent.com back, where you put the breathable with a soft great for both daily These are the most absorbent inserts. Each 4. All in Two nappy, microfibre interior and overnight use. sustainable nappies so one comes with two £18.75, tickle-tots.com gives a comfortable far from Close Parent bamboo mix inserts. This gorgeous design and stretchy fit with 7. Under the Sea, £16.50, - each one made with Super soft, absorbant from TickleTots no chaffing, both in littlelambnappies.com 2 ½ plastic bottles. In and very easy to use. supports conservation and out of the water. A great value pocket a variety of new pastel and breeding products Elasticated legs nappy, which comes colours, choose from 3. Baba and Boo around the world and waist catch any with two bamboo cloud, sky, coral, mint Surfing Print, £16.50, helping endangered accidental number boosters. The cover is or sunshine, these babipur.co.uk animals and habitats. twos and the hook made from stretchy nappies are onesize This one-size, birth- 2% of takings will be & loop fastening knit and coupled featuring poppers on to-potty pocket nappy donated back to the means no mess at with a clever popper the front to adjust to is pale blue with a charity to help with change time too. configuration so you fit your little one. fun design featuring these projects. can alter the size and some super-cool 6. Gelato design, €25, fit as baby grows. It 2. Baba and Boo surfing dogs, and is 5. Swim Nappy, £10.99, eu.charliebanana.com generally fits from Ocean Print, £14.95, part of the Baba + Boo totsbots.com (below) Each nappy comes with around 10-12lbs up babaandboo.com Senses collection. Neoprene free reusable two deluxe inserts that to potty training. beach bums Kit your baby out in these sunshine yellow or seaside inspired nappies from our favourite brands
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AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2020 thegreenparent.co.uk 35 READ, CREATE & PLAY Recently some of our readers received a box of lockdown treats from us. From family games, activity books, inspirational reads for children and books for parents , they give their reviews here...
THE TALE OF A TOOTHBRUSH M.G. LEONARD & DANIEL RIELEY £12.99, WALKER BOOKS “We liked the bright colours used throughout this book, and the illustration style. My daughter said she wished she could colour the pictures herself, and went off to draw having read the book! We’re talking a lot about the climate, our impact on the world, and what we can be doing about it. The children really liked how the various animals were helping the toothbrush find home. It’s definitely one I can imagine us HIVE, £16.95, GEN42 reading often over the next few years.”Alison GAMES “Hive is a wonderfully tactile game that builds on the strategy and planning of chess to create an open and interesting logical NATURE puzzle. In this two player game ANATOMY you are placing beautifully NOTEBOOK, weighted hexagonal pieces, each JULIA representing insects, with the aim ROTHMAN of completely surrounding your £14.99, opponent's Queen Bee tile. Each STOREY insect moves differently, ants PUBLISHING scuttle unlimited around the edges “This is a of the tiles, whilst stag beetles beautiful notebook – the illustrations are can only move one place but are stunning and quality of the paper is very able to “climb” over other tiles. RESCUE & JESSICA, JESSICA appealing to hold in your hands, inviting Learning how best to use each of KENSKY AND PATRICK DOWNES, you to open it. I will admit to keeping their abilities to both thwart your £7.99, WALKER BOOKS this one for myself! I’ve been looking for opponent's plans whilst pushing “I really liked this book; it promoted something like this to make records of your attack is a lot of fun and each many opportunities to discuss topics what we’re seeing in the garden during game delivers learnings to take that wouldn’t naturally come up, around lockdown and this is perfect for that. It into the next. My thirteen year disability, injury, help, support. My is split into seasons, with spaces to add old loved it and we concluded children were still talking about Jessica year/month, your written notes and it’s a great little compact game to and the book days later, but at the time illustrations. There are a few pages where take away on holiday.” Simon of reading found it a bit too long in places. the author demonstrates ‘how to draw…’ They also found the presentation of and some diagrams on ‘The anatomy the two stories running simultaneously of…’, which are sparse throughout the confusing for the first reading. I would notebook but informative and useful. definitely buy this book, and would Mostly this is a beautiful notebook which recommend it to others looking to feels and looks good, so invites you to use encourage their children to think about life it and look after it. I’ll definitely be taking experiences beyond their own.” Alison up nature journaling as a result.” Suzanne
36 AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2020 thegreenparent.co.uk JOAN PROCTER, DRAGON DOCTOR, PATRICIA VALDEZ & FELICITA SALA, £13.99, ALFRED A. KNOPF BOOKS FOR YOUNG READERS “It is always refreshing to see a picture book with a female lead character combined with a topic not considered ‘feminine’. My ten year old is a dragon fan so this book was snatched up and read immediately! My child was upset by the story being set in a zoo, whereas I was very taken with the female lead being a real scientist in the early 20th century. However, we then shared it together and discussed the female protagonist in more detail, particularly within the constraints of her time period, how she might be considered inspirational and what we might learn from the story. I’d recommend it for children aged 7+ and would suggest sharing it together to support a deeper understanding of its content.” Suzanne
POP TO THE SHOPS, £10.50, ORCHARD TOYS “The Orchard Toys games are always winners in our house as they are bright and colourful and easy to play. The game was easy to set up and is mainly aimed at increasing coin recognition and handling money. I would say that it's best aimed at children aged six or over, though you could play with it slightly younger MINI RABBIT NOT LOST, children they would need some level JOHN BOND, £6.99, of support. The game itself has play TALES OF THE MUSHROOM FOLK, HARPER COLLINS money included which my daughter SIGNE ASPELIN, £10.99, FLORIS CHILDREN'S BOOKS “This book loved, she also liked the idea of going BOOKS “This was the clear favourite felt a bit different - in a good to the shops and spending her own in this household and has been read way! I liked the clothbound money but having to buy set things many times over! It is quite like the flower hardback cover which is much rather than just what she wanted to buy fairy books where each flower has a fairy more tactile than the standard did cause some problems! The aim of assigned to it which embodies some of the smooth cover. We really the game is to be the first player to buy flowers characteristics. Here characters liked the illustrations, both six items without overspending.” Gail are assigned to different mushrooms. We stylistically and the beautiful have had some other books illustrated by colours used. We particularly Signe Aspelin and my daughter loves the liked the changing use of tone pictures - they are very whimsical with through the book. I also really lovely added details to look for on each liked the weight of the paper. page. Although we know quite a lot about The children enjoyed finding the things growing in our garden we are not the creatures hiding on most very familiar with mushrooms so this was an pages. And I don’t want to give excellent addition for us. We would highly it away but the ending of the recommend this book. My daughter said story made all of us giggle! I ‘I loved that the people were mushrooms, can imagine buying this book my favourite mushroom was the brain as a gift for a new parent or a mushrooms’. Her only criticism she could young child – I imagine up to think of was that she wished there were around five, although my seven more mushroom families included.” Gail year old did enjoy it. It’s a great family picture book.” Alison
A BOTTLE OF HAPPINESS, PIPPA GOODHEART & EHSAN ABDOLLAHI, £7.99, TINY OWL PUBLISHING LTD, “This book is so colourful! The images although slightly abstract are so appealing and fun, we spent ages poring over the pictures. The story follows Pim and his dog, Tiddle, who decide to explore the other side of the mountain where they live. We liked the story of how, although Pim’s people seemed to be poor they were rich in ways which the other side were not. We discussed how all people have riches of different kinds and how nice is it when we stop comparing how much things are worth but share with each other. My daughter said ‘I like it when they shared stories and I really liked the pictures’.” Gail
AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2020 thegreenparent.co.uk 37 UNDER THE BODHI TREE DEBORAH HOPKINSON & KAILEY WHITMAN £11.95, SOUNDS TRUE INC “Under the bodhi tree is a story of the early life of the Buddha. The illustrations in the book are peaceful, serene and really appealing to my daughter. We were both unfamiliar with the story of Buddha so it was new for both of us. The story follows the beginning of life for the Buddha, or Siddhartha, as he was a boy who was FOREST ADVENTURES fairly sheltered by his parents. When CLAIRE GILLMAN, SAM he begins to see injustice in the world MARTIN & JOHN BLANEY he is immediately drawn to helping KINGDOMINO, BRUNO £12.99, MODERN BOOKS “I really others but feels overwhelmed and seeks CATHALA, £17.99, liked the look of this book - this felt BLUE ORANGE GAMES like something I’d pick up and look out his own way to deal with his own turmoil and that within the world. We “We liked everything about at if I saw it in the bookshop. The Kingdomino – made with ideas are grouped which made have had some books on different world religions before but they tend to be more quality materials, bright actually using the book feel possible artwork, very little assembly as I could see when we would use non-fiction or ones that follow a child practising the religion or festival rather required, in a smaller box with the ideas. Most of the ideas could simple instructions, so we were be adapted for using with younger than the origins behind it. It’s almost poetic in its wording so is very easy to up and running with the game children (and some are relevant within five minutes of opening with no adaptation) but as a whole read aloud and engaging for children to listen to. It was a lovely introduction to it. We played as a family of it felt well pitched for those aged four; two adults, ten and seven seven and over. I particularly liked the life of Buddha, I would just be ready to answer questions afterwards!”Gail year old. It isn’t always easy the nature crafting and cold- to find a game which engages weather ideas. The instructions everyone enough, but this are clear, and I liked the skill and was definitely it. Based on the length of time guides. I’d definitely concept of dominoes, your recommend this book and can challenge is to build your imagine buying it for friends who territory and then score based enjoy spending time outdoors on the number of crowns you with their children for inspiration, collect. It is a great way to throw especially now when they are a bit of simple multiplication running through their go-to ideas into game play. The rules are more quickly than ever!” Alison straightforward, with extra elements to add to make it more challenging for older players. It doesn’t require much space TOWN IS BY THE SEA, JOANNE SCHWARTZ & to play and the box is small SYDNEY SMITH, £7.99, WALKER BOOKS “Town is enough that it could easily be by the sea is a story of a little boy who has found taken on a camping holiday. himself born in a town which because of its geography, Highly recommend.” Suzanne will dictate the direction his future life will take. The story switches between the normal everyday life that happens for the boy, and then switches to what is happening for his father. His father is a coal miner and the illustrations show what life is like for him underground, under the sea. The illustrations in the book are beautiful and make the sea seem to shimmer-contrasting greatly with the darkness in the coal mine. It is an interesting book from a historical point of view. It led to some interesting discussions about energy use. It prompted us to discuss the impact when coal mines collapsed or were shut down. This is probably not a book we would have necessarily chosen but it’s led to some excellent family discussions. My daughter said ‘I really liked the pictures in the book but I felt sad for the boy’. There is some mild peril in the book as a picture shows the mine collapsing and it’s not immediately clear that the father is ok so it may not be completely suitable for sensitive children.” Gail
38 AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2020 thegreenparent.co.uk Specialist day and residential provisions for children and adults with learning differences and disabilities in England, Wales and Scotland. Ruskin Mill Trust’s unique method of Practical Skills Therapeutic Education (PSTE) enables individuals to forge a sense of identity, gain qualifications, independent living skills, and re-imagine their own potential for a brighter future. Ruskin Mill Trust remains open as usual and is still accepting admissions.
RUSKIN MILL TRUST IN ENGLAND IN SCOTLAND Applications and referrals are taken all year round. argent college clervauxrise fairhillrise Birmingham, 16-25 Darlington, 18+ East Lothian, 18+ Contact us today to find out more or to arrange a grace school ruskin mill college Bristol, 7-19, opening 2021 Nailsworth, 16-25 IN WALES visit at a time to suit you. sunfield school brantwood specialist school coleg plas dwbl Clent, 6-19 Sheffield, 7-19 Clynderwen, 16-25 clervaux garden school freeman college coleg ty’r eithin Darlington, 10-19 Sheffield, 16-25 Swansea, 16-25, opening 2020 clervaux fold glasshouse college Darlington, army families Stourbridge, 16-25 ruskinmill ruskinmilltrust ruskinmill 0330 055 2653 | [email protected] | rmt.org
Green Parent April 2020.indd 1 06/04/2020 16:31 HUMMINGBIRD, NICOLA DAVIES & JANE RAY, £11.99, WALKER BOOKS “My daughter adores hummingbirds! The book follows the journey hummingbirds make every year, mixing it with the stories of individual families and their connection to this little bird, along with interesting facts about them. We liked the map at the beginning as it was easy to see and understand where hummingbirds are found and the journey they make each year. Despite knowing a bit about hummingbirds we found out new facts - for example hummingbirds use spider silk in their nests so that it can gently stretch as the chicks get bigger. It was nice to see the story connecting a little girl and her grandmother and their relationship to the birds as well. My daughter commented afterwards that she would like to send her grandparents a letter like the girl in the story. We were sad to hear that hummingbirds are finding migrating difficult now with the arrival of more buildings and cities, it made us investigate migrating birds and the difficulties that they may face. This then led us to look at our own garden and town and think about what we could do to help migrating birds here too. My daughter said ‘I love the hummingbirds and I liked learning more about them’.” Gail
OLD MASTERS 60 CLASSIC ROCK, OUTDOOR MARIA-CHRISTINA GAMES, SAYN-WITTGENSTEIN KATIE HEWITT, NOTTEBOHM, £9.99, £6.99, COLLINS & PIMPERNEL PRESS BROWN “The cover “This is one of those books that I and illustrations didn’t know we needed until it arrived for this one weren’t to my tastes (old for review! We are complete novices school Ladybird-esque), but I really to the world of art, and needed this like the book and the way the games book to be unintimidating and easy are grouped - particularly those to understand! The structure of the games that take up lots of space and book was straightforward, divided THE QUEST FOR those better suited to a party. Lots of into themes so we were able to pursue EL DORADO, £35.99, the games are familiar (hopscotch, specific interests. The layout of each RAVENSBURGER pin the tail on the donkey, stuck in page included fun facts, descriptions of “In The Quest for El Dorado the mud) but remembering them the artist and, most usefully, prompts players are racing through is harder! This feels like a book for questions about the artwork in jungle, over water and stopping that you might buy for a particular hand. All of us learned how to observe off at villages to be the first purpose - a holiday or party (or different interpretations, different to reach the fabled city of maybe lock-down!) - but one that art techniques, the influence of time Eldorado. The different terrain you’d likely use many times after period etc. This is a great book to start is negotiated by playing cards the event. I can imagine this being a your journey into art appreciation, that match that particular great book for bridging generation without the pressure of standing terrain. Everyone starts the gaps and encouraging family in a museum or art gallery, with game with the same cards but as stories to be shared about the time some excellent support for parents/ you progress you can purchase when your Aunty did…!”Alison carers to encourage discussion upgrades that will allow you about art with children.” Suzanne to move quicker towards your goal as well as remove weaker cards from your hand. This BRITISH WILDLIFE HANDBOOKS, CAMILLA DE LA core mechanic of managing BÉDOYÈRE & DUNCAN BREWER, £10.99, MILES KELLY your hands to ensure your “This is a set of three books that look at wildlife, birds best cards come out as often as and wildflowers and trees, effectively ‘spotters guides’. They’re possible is fun and accessible. good and clear and my five year old was able to identify both My thirteen year old mastered plants and wildlife using them. My daughter loves spotters this quickly and went on to guides and we have quite a few old ones. What set these apart thrash me! The modular board though are that they have their own journal entries on each allows for different layouts page so that the children can put their own rubbings, leaves, and the game can be enhanced drawings and observations on each one. In the observation with the optional “caves” to notes it encourages children to use nearly all their senses in explore and gain valuable order to explore around them and be able to identify nature. My help allowing for a different daughter said ‘I loved the nature books and took them with me on our experience each game.” Simon walks. I spotted birds in the hedge and flowers we didn’t know’.”Gail
40 AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2020 thegreenparent.co.uk Another thoughtful book from Hawthorn Press
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skills. But they also learn through movement. Nowadays, children are not as active as they once were, and a Curvy balance board encourages movement without realising. The highest form of balance is sitting still, but in order to be able to sit still, children need to move! Though different experiences in movement, children’s vestibular system will mature and eventually they will be able to sit still and focus, skills that are needed to start school. Movement and spatial awareness are also the way that children learn to write. We are not just another business, we are a social enterprise and have a social and environmental mission embedded in our company; to support child development and reduce waste in toys. For every purchase we also donate a Waldorf comforter doll to the Buddy Bag foundation who put together essential supplies for children in emergency care after fleeing violent situations at home. Parents don’t always see the boards the striking a balance same way as their kids. If we are at an event and parents ask us what the boards are, I It’s the dream. An open-ended toy that can be anything you wish it say, observe your child. Kids love them! into. A boat, a rocking chair, a skateboard, a slope for cars, a seesaw, They run to them and find new ways to play. “I’m on top of the world” has to be a table, or a dreamy bed to read in. Created by engineer Maria Bataller my all-time favourite comment from a of Young & Learning, Curvy boards grow with your children’s minds child playing with one of our boards!” and bodies. We’re obsessed, and wanted to know more. Maria says: Find out more at youngandlearning.co.uk
“THERE WERE A FEW THINGS THAT INSPIRED my partner Warren and I to start Young & Learning. After having children and receiving loads of toys from friends and family that were only used once, or were low quality and broke quickly, we wanted to do our bit to help reduce waste. I also have a passion for child development and trained in that area. Curvy balance boards create endless opportunities to learn and grow through play. They promote imagination and creativity at the same time as keeping children active. They are high quality toys that will grow with your children; they will be used for different things at different ages. My design was inspired by Waldorf, focused on a play-based approach and adding movement to learning. Children use the boards to learn through play a large variety of skills, from motor skills, balance, creative thinking, and social
AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2020 thegreenparent.co.uk 43 LEARNING / CRAFT
achieve in a short time. Most Make it! people can manage the easy 3 braid hair plait but have a go at the compass plait which uses four strands. The instructions are on the Guild website – many people will recognise this as a scoobie pattern. I love using natural materials that will, ultimately, break down without any environmental impact. Having said that, corn dollies will keep for years; I know of one display that was put together over forty years ago and is still intact! Obtaining the materials is not as easy as you might think: old-fashioned wheat used for corn dollies is only grown by a few specialists and has to be specially cut - on modern farms everything goes through the combine and the straw is smashed. I enjoy creating forms that link with our cultural past as well as using the traditional techniques to create new designs. It fascinates me that the craft appears to have developed in disparate places globally using a variety of materials and I always have a new project in mind: some rice straw is currently awaiting my attention for a Japanese shimenawa!”
Find out more about Carol’s harvest home workshops and see her Lammas falls on August 1, a celebration of bounteousness and newly incredible designs at thewheatweaver on Facebook harvested grain. Traditionally, this is the time of year that corn dollies were etsy.com/shop/thewheatweaver made from the last few stems of wheat, twisted and bound together to Find the Guild of Straw form a safe haven for the spirit of the harvest. The dolly would be ploughed Craftsmenstrawcraftsmen.co.uk back into the soil on Plough Monday in the early new year. Wheat weaving Buy straw at simplystraw.co.uk connects us with our past, and is a creative and rewarding past-time. We spoke to expert Carol Partridge about her art and the stories behind it
“I PLAY HURDY-GURDY IN A tallow candle – moment, and frustration at the kitchen table! medieval reenactment band, I started an Etsy shop to keep My favourite piece is the Rough Musicke, and realised my hand in over the winter. Border fan. This is associated that there were gaps in the day The craft is red-listed by the with a particular area of the to be filled as the band didn’t Heritage Crafts Association; British Isles, in this case, the play continuously at events. So there are few people carrying English/Welsh border. It is I took out a small corn dolly kit it out or passing on the skills to an attractive piece and one to make harvest favours, and another generation so there is a which I teach at my workshops came home empty-handed. It real prospect of it fading away. - people are always pleasantly was a lightbulb – or should I say So, learning it meant hours of surprised at what they can
44 AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2020 thegreenparent.co.uk
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AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2020 thegreenparent.co.uk 45 HEALTH / NUTRITION
and improve after birth although breastfeeding too was associated with continued lowered bone density. The best course of action is to work closely with your healthcare practitioner to maintain bone health. However, in dietary and lifestyle terms lots can be done. The most important nutrients for bone health are calcium, vitamins K and D3 plus magnesium and vitamin C. Therefore, meal planning for the inclusion of rainbow coloured fruit and vegetables, especially leafy green vegetables, nuts and seeds are rich vegetarian sources of calcium and magnesium, while small oily fish such as sardines are great for those following a pescatarian diet. While fermented foods can provide vitamin K2 and fruit and salad items are great for vitamin C. However, supplementation may be considered for adequate amounts of vitamin D3 in winter months or for those with no sun exposure. Up to a few years ago vitamin D3 was only extracted from animal sources, namely sheep’s lanolin, ASK A NUTRITIONIST yet a recent discovery showed Jenny Carson, senior nutritionist at Viridian Nutrition that vitamin D3 is produced answers your questions about family health by lichen and subsequently high-quality vegan vitamin My son is five years old and more palatable. Try mixing I’ve been diagnosed with D3 are available. Studies show Q eats predominantly bread pasta ribbons with a spiralised Q osteoporosis during my that dietary improvements and pasta. I am hoping to make vegetable to introduce new pregnancy. Is there something plus weight bearing exercise food more interesting for us as food. Similarly, cauliflower that I can do from a dietary can improve bone density. a family but in subtle ways. Can ‘rice’ and using cauliflower in perspective to help ease Therefore, you may consider you offer me a couple of tips for pizza bases can work well too. the symptoms please? walking, swimming or reluctant veggie eaters please!? prenatal exercise classes. Other alternatives to try : The onset of osteoporosis In some individuals bone Making food interesting Corn tortillas stuffed with during pregnancy is a condition density may remain lowered for children is a worldwide houmous and veggies; that is generally rare, and little during breastfeeding and so, challenge and often specialists Oatcakes with cream cheese; is known about the cause which advice should be sought from recommend that children are Buckwheat, rice or lentil pasta makes preventative measures your healthcare professional. included in the preparation with pesto or tomato sauce quite difficult. Although of meals to develop a bond Try food bowls rather than some observational data links between the child, their sandwiches. Corncakes subclinical lowered bone MORE INSPIRATION nutrition and the food. Adding with chilli and guacamole; density status, coeliac disease or Viridian Nutrition is the leading herbs, spices or even a squeeze Almond or coconut flour anorexia to osteoporosis during brand of ethical supplements of lemon can contribute to cakes and pancakes; Spiralised pregnancy. Symptoms may and has 200+ product range. making bland vegetables veggies with pasta sauce. present in the third trimester viridian-nutrition.com
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Gift ERE ARE SOME WAYS TO GET you started. There are so many ECONOMY methods of sharing, and diverse forms of the following ideas exist around the world. Can you Sharing is a way to deepen a buy Hcreate your own spin on them and introduce nothing experience and go longer without some of these ideas in your communities?
buying, while also giving back to the Host a clothing share. Have people bring any community in meaningful ways say clothes they’re done with and lay them all out 1 on a table. You can separate them by kind or Liesl Clark and Rebecca Rockefeller just let people look through the piles. It’s fun to do it in someone’s home, or try it on a dry sunny day in a public park. You’ll be impressed with all the cool new togs you’ll come home with. Some groups have a point person who then takes all of the clothing that is left over and turns it into a round- robin for those who missed the event (see #3). Start a meal club. Get a group of culinary minded friends together and start a meal 2 club. This takes batch cooking to a new level and varies your meals while you use only one recipe in your own kitchen. So, if there are five of you, then you make five lasagnas, for example, and get four other homemade meals in return for your family! If people in your group have freezer space, it’s great to do this monthly and choose foods that freeze well. Everyone cooks on the same day (Sunday seems to be the most popular choice), then meets up to swap finished food all at once. It can also be done with fresh foods. Just assign a day to each person for their bulk cooking. Who doesn’t want a break from cooking some nights? Launch a round-robin. Round-robins are a collection of items that you send 3 into your community for people to pass around, take what they want, and add to. We often create a collection for specific sizes of children’s clothing, for example. But round- robins can be created for women’s and men’s clothing, makeup, kitchen supplies, and toys. Create a garden share group. When Liesl first moved to Bainbridge Island, she 4 started a group called Island Garden Share, where she invited people to come to her house
48 AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2020 thegreenparent.co.uk once a month and bring with them perennials, Start a monthly “Really Really Free cuttings, and veggie starts from their gardens to Market.” Minneapolis has a successful The share with the group. Each participant would go 11free market that has benefited many home with new plants and veggies to put in their families. You could start one in your city or YOUR gardens. It was a garden plant potluck of sorts town, too. Minneapolis’s Market is very popular. STORIES and saved everyone so much money in starting People contribute what they no longer need new perennial beds. Another added benefit? It and pick up what they do. Here’s what they put was the best way to meet others who shared a out in the local newspaper to spread the word: Catherine passion for growing perennials and vegetables. “Everything here is FREE: offer what you’d like Goldsmith Go gleaning. When it’s harvest time, find to give and take what you would like to receive. Berwickshire Swap apple trees, blackberry bushes, grapevines, Food, music, and company are as welcome run childrens' 5 pear trees, any fruits or vegetables growing as objects. Please treat everything as a gift, clothes swaps in on public land that would otherwise go to waste, and please take back with you any things that village halls, in the pick the produce, and share it with everyone. you have brought that nobody has taken.” Scottish Borders. Create a “Buy Nothing, Share Freely Garden communally and share People donate out- Holiday Shop.” We’ve run a free Christmas produce. If you have growing space, grown childrens' 6 shop for years, a party where people bring 12 turn it into a neighbourhood garden. clothes, pay £1 items that are gift-worthy and both children Sharing the land and work will increase yields, entry fee then and adults can take any item they’d like to give bringing food and joy to more people. You can they are free to to family members and friends. Everyone goes also contribute your excess produce to a Grow rummage and take home with armloads of gifts for the holidays. Free cart, a beautiful movement of colourful away what they Build a Little Free Library. Little Free carts started in Australia where people share need for no extra Libraries have been a thing for years their excess produce and take what they need charge. We usually and they’re such a cool gift to give the from the carts. Why not start a cart for your 7 have tea and cake world. Build a little weatherproof box that can community? This idea from Down Under hold books, and put it out at the end of your deserves to take root around the world. too so it's a nice driveway or other safe location accessible to way to get to know other families. your neighbors (apartment lobbies are perfect, MORE INSPIRATION with permission from your building manager). facebook.com/ People will come and take what they like and READ The Buy Nothing, Get Everything Plan berwickshireswap add to the collection. Visit littlefreelibrary.org by Liesl Clark and Rebecca Rockefeller for all of the details, including building plans EXPLORE Start your own Linda Robson- and a global map of Little Free Libraries. Buy Nothing group in your Burrell I'm opening neighbourhood with guidance Start a library of things. Lending libraries Linda's Little Free are not only for books! We’ve seen libraries from buynothingproject.org Library in my 8 for tools, seeds, housewares, and fancy front garden in clothes, all started up as innovative local re- South Devon. Lots sources for neighbours to share. Choose an item of people in our or items you’d like to steward, like cloth napkins community here for events (this saves so much on paper waste), kindly donated metal cutlery, wineglasses, plates, camping books they were gear, snowshoes, carpet steamer, etc., and your decluttering. neighbours will thank you. Choose the item you’d like to loan to people, let everyone know, and be Vikki Mason We the go-to person for that much-needed thing. have a phonebox Create a fleet of “free bikes” and set library which them free for people to ride from place includes puzzles, to place. We did it, and spray-painted 'Lending 9 a community the bikes with a “ride me” sign on them. Start a Fix-It Fair. These are so libraries can be garden, a plant essential! Assembling local engineers, swap group as well for books, tools, as a nappy library 10 electricians, carpenters, seamstresses, and MacGyvers for a Fix-It Fair can go a long way and a kids clothes to prevent things from going into the landfill. seeds, fancy swap. One of the You may already have one nearby, so just type clothes and village schools has “Repair Café” or “Fix-it Fair + [your county or set up a party ware region]” into your browser and see what pops up. housewares' loan scheme too.
AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2020 thegreenparent.co.uk 49 MINDFUL Family The Mindful KITCHEN Heather Thomas has a unique recipe for living in an ecologically friendly way. Here she shares ways to adopt beginner's mind in your kitchen
EGINNER’S MIND STARTS WITH nurturing your ability to form questions, and at the same time free yourself from knowing the answer. It feels great! Have you ever watched a Bchild look at a leaf or a spider or a box with obvious delight? In the process of learning, children don’t assume they know what they see. They simply 'Food rituals fill us with a sense of security take joy in exploration. Imagine how much joy you could find in what you perceive to be the and meaning. The things we do ritualistically mundanity of everyday if you were to do the same. Cultivating your Beginner’s Mind is your ticket to are extensions of who we are as people.' childlike wonder. It is also your ticket to gradually building your knowledge of the intersection of lunch or Thanksgiving, food rituals fill us with ways to the natural world and the way we have designed a sense of security and meaning. The things we practice our food system, enabling you not only to make do ritualistically are extensions of who we are as 5 choices that better suit your values, but also to people. Quite often in life we inherit rituals without mindfulness channel forward the creative inspiration for questioning their relevance. Rarely do we set our in the kitchen change. You begin to see the world differently. Food intent to developing rituals that enable us to create is a marvellous place to start. Regularly asking change in our life and the life that surrounds us. 1. Let your body catch endlessly adaptable questions – such as: What part Heady as that sounds, in reality many of the up with your brain of a plant does this food come from? What value rituals we partake in already mirror the cycles of 2. Know your personal does this food offer to other parts of nature beyond nature because they stem from a time when people hunger signals feeding humans? or What meaning does this food saw themselves as a part of nature, not beings who 3. Cultivate a hold for me, beyond being food, and why? – will could dominate it. Take Halloween, for instance. mindful kitchen help you to perceive food as a conduit to the entire Its origins go back 2,000 years to the time of the 4. Understand your natural world. The value of all food in your life, Celts living in Great Britain and northern France. motivations to eat from a full-on celebratory meal to a morning cuppa, After the autumnal equinox, when misty mornings 5. Connect more will grow. As it does, eventually, your behaviours and long dark nights began to draw in as the fertile deeply with the food will shift as your world becomes more wondrous. world became dormant for months on end – it was on your plate bound to be frightening! People put lights in their CREATE A RITUAL windows and made offerings of food to the spirits Beginner’s mind questioning enables your to appease them. Every Halloween, when we have MORE INSPIRATION mind to develop a better understanding of how fun carving out faces in candlelit pumpkins to set READ The Mindful your lifestyle reflects your values and brings on our doorsteps and windowsills, or give treats to Kitchen by Heather renewed wonder to your everyday life. But, how children dressed as ghosts and ghouls who come Thomas (Quarto) do you translate intention into habitual action, knocking, we are re-enacting the same cycle of life WATCH What are our particularly if you are trying to bring about in connection to nature that our distant ancestors Rituals with Food at change? The answer is a commitment to bringing did. Every food ritual presents an opportunity themindfulkitchen. new awareness and meaning to the rituals we all to better understand the language of nature and org/what-are-our- partake in each day. Be it birthday cake, Sunday to weave a web of significance that serves all. rituals-with-food
50 AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2020 thegreenparent.co.uk
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Win a Jar of Calendula and Marshmallow Balm Lyonsleaf won a Gold Medal in the Green Parent Beauty Awards Nappy Cream category last year for their remarkable Zinc and Calendula Cream. Now, we are giving away 10 jars of their 30ml Calendula and Marshmallow Balm, which is also shortlisted this year for the baby balm category, but it’s also brilliant for hands ravaged by lots of handwashing. Lyonsleaf are a go-to brand for sensitive skin, their website is brimming with 5 star reviews from customers with eczema, psoriasis, perioral dermatitis, acne and many other skin issues. Their products really are 100% natural, their eco credentials and recyclable packaging are impressive and they grow their own herbs and hand make the products at their farm on the Mendip Hills in Somerset. What’s not to love. lyonsleaf.co.uk ENTER HERE: link.thegreenparent.co.uk/lyonsleaf CLOSING DATE: 9th September 2020
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Win a beautiful selection Win of natural soap from BrambleWood Soap Co. The prize includes a wonderful selection of 11 handmade botanical soap bars, worth over £50. BrambleWood Soap Co products are all lovingly made by hand in small batches in the heart of Dorset with only wonderful, natural and organic ingredients. All products are free from palm oil, artificial fragrances, colours, parabens, SLS, SLES and phthalates. www.bramblewoodsoap.co.uk instagram: @bramblewood.soap HOW TO ENTER: For your chance to win simply enter online at: link.thegreenparent.co.uk/bramblewoodsoap CLOSING DATE: 30th September 2020
52 FOR FULL TERMS AND CONDITIONS PLEASE VISIT: THEGREENPARENT.CO.UK/ABOUT/TERMS-AND-CONDITIONS FOOD / SCHOOL Make it!
✽ If the school allows hot meals, invest in a food flask. Make up extra portions of evening dinners and give them to your kids the next day for lunch. Macaroni cheese, lentil curry, and vegetable soups all work beautifully. Great for cold days. ✽ Theme your weeks and go global! Try Chinese noodle salads, dim sum and dumplings, Indian tiffin, Spanish snacks and Greek pitta and dips. Include little flags, fun fact Post-its, and label the food in your chosen country’s language. ✽ Save on packaging and money by buying in bulk. Visit your nearest bring- your-own-container store to stock up on nuts, wasabi peas, dried fruit, trail mix and spicy Bombay Mix, then decant into small reusable containers. ✽ Keep a packet of emergency wraps in the freezer for emergency standby on run-out-of-bread days! ✽ We love Buddha Bowls! Prepare the ingredients at the beginning of the week, and encourage your kids to help mix up a different combination to take to BOXING CLEVER school or work daily. Include quinoa, chickpeas, chopped onion, avocados, Back to school means back to packed lunches. It’s easy to fall seaweed, roasted squash and potatoes, into formulaic habits, so we asked our readers and friends sugar snap peas, tomatoes, radishes and for their ultimate lunch-time tips. Try something new! sweetcorn and build your own bowl each morning! Take a dressing in a separate ✽ Include something frozen – an orange, bulk. One a day will give your kids a healthy bowl and wave goodbye to sogginess. or yoghurt, say – and it’ll keep the rest of energy kick to see them through playtime. ✽ Include surprise notes and doodles in your your lunch cool, and thaw out just enough ✽ Bean salads are sturdy enough to lunches. Look up illustrator Rob Biddulph to eat by midday. Alternatively freeze survive a bumpy bike ride to school. Add on social media and be inspired by his quarter of a bottle of water, and top it up in hard-boiled eggs, smoked fish, edamame incredible Post-it Note cartoons he draws the morning for a home-made icepack. beans or roasted butternut squash. for his daughter. Or get creative and label ✽ Vegetable and cheese muffins travel well ✽ If your child struggles to eat a your dinners; “Poison”, “Snot Sandwich” and and make a great soggy sandwich alternative. whole apple, cut it into slices and use “Scab crisps” have all made our kids smile. ✽ Make Bliss Balls (sesame seeds, dates and rubber bands to hold them in place. ✽ Bake tear-and-share loaves and freeze ayurvedic spices bound together with ghee) in The ‘jigsaw’ apple won’t go brown. them for the ultimate easy lunch snack.
single use cling film, of two tiers and a 3. PACK IT IN these wax food wraps separate mini container Keep Leaf Insulated are washable, reusable which fits inside. 1 lunchpack, £18, and biodegradable. Bambu full littleacornstomighty Made with only natural 4 utensil set, £20, oaks.co.uk Made from ingredients the beeswax ethicalsuperstore.com 100% organic cotton wraps won’t leach any Organic bamboo cutlery 2. canvas. Perfect for chemicals into your food set, which includes 1. lunches and snacks. unlike plastic wrap. a knife, fork, spoon, Durable, lightweight Two Tier spork, chopsticks, and easy to clean. Lead 3 Lunchbox, £21.95, bamboo straw and a Phthalate and BPA free. asliceofgreen.co.uk straw cleaning brush Beeswax Wraps, £10, Rectangular stainless packed in an organic 2 peacewiththewild. steel lunch box with cotton mesh bag to co.uk Say goodbye to clip closure, consisting keep them altogether. 4.
AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2020 thegreenparent.co.uk 53 54 AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2020 thegreenparent.co.uk FOOD / RECIPES
SWEET POTATO GNOCCHI ChefMeet the
Natasha Corrett wants to make family food easier and more nourishing for everyone
AMILY TIME IS, IN MY OPINION, THE MOST nourishing and exhausting experience you can have. It challenges you and completes you all in the same breath. To allow mealtimes to be enjoyable rather than stressful, I have put together this collection of recipes to make it easier to nourish your whole family. F Each dish is simple to make, with no hard to find ingredients, no complicated methods, no time consuming preparation, just delicious, quick to make meals. These recipes are flexible in every way. Don’t have broccoli? Swap it. Don’t like carrots? Swap them ... The recipes are interchangeable and work for the whole family. Whether you are pregnant with your first child or have a house full of little ones, the recipes are put together so cool. You can then just peel into small balls and drop that everyone in your household can enjoy them. the skin off and chop the onto the floured surface (you Batch cooking and freezing food has been a saviour for potato. Alternatively, steam don’t have to be too neat). It me from day one. Your freezer is just a cold larder! If you the sweet potato by heating is a wet mixture, not like a have multiple children, work and a hungry partner, stacking 5cm of water in a saucepan. normal gnocchi that you roll. a freezer full of purées, stews, risottos and sauces is the Chop the sweet potato, place Sprinkle with a little more easiest way to get dinner on the table in 10 minutes. in a sieve and add to the pan, flour and gently rock each one without touching the water, backwards and forwards (as and place a lid on top. Steam if you were rolling it) just so sweet potato chilli tomato sauce and a fresh for 20–25 minutes until soft the flour sits on the surface rocket and parmesan salad. (do not allow the water to boil of the sweet potato. Press the gnocchi as the potato will get too wet back of a fork gently onto each SERVES: 2 children • 195g sweet potato and the gnocchi won’t work). one, this will help the tomato PREP: 10 minutes • 35g gluten-free self raising 3. Mash the cooked sweet sauce to stick to the gnocchi. COOK: 30 minutes–1 hour flour, plus extra for dusting potato with the back of a 5. Boil a very large pan of This was a winner with Rudy • 1 heaped tsp cornflour spoon in a bowl. Add the water, drop each gnocchi during the weaning process – gluten-free flour and cornflour into the pan and cook the just make them a little longer 1. Preheat the oven to the bowl and mix well. gnocchi for 3 minutes. so they can pick each one up to 180°C Fan. 4. Cover a work surface with 6. Take out of the water and put like a fish finger. Simon and I 2. Bake the potato whole for flour and, with two small into a bowl with some olive oil. love this too with a delicious 50 minutes, then leave to teaspoons, shape the mixture Serve with any sauce or pesto. >
AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2020 thegreenparent.co.uk 55 FOOD / RECIPES
green pancakes 1. To a frying pan, add 1 SERVES: 2 children tablespoon of the olive oil, the PREP: 10 minutes cumin, courgette and broccoli COOK: 10 minutes and cook for 2–3 minutes. I love pancakes – they are 2. Add the spinach and water quick and simple to make even and continue to cook until the with a toddler hanging from vegetables are soft. Take off the your leg! Introducing greens heat and put into a blender into a food they already love with the flour, pesto and egg is also a wonderful way to add and blend until smooth. more veg to their repertoire 3. Using the same frying pan, and these are great for the add the other tablespoon of whole family. You can pretty olive oil into the pan and bring much use any vegetables to to a medium to high heat. make different flavours too. Spoon heaped tablespoons of the mixture into the hot • 2 tbsp olive oil pan and leave to cook for • 1⁄3 tsp ground cumin 1–2 minutes until golden on • 1/4 courgette, grated one side, then flip and cook • 2 broccoli florets, finely chopped on the other. Keep warm • 50g spinach while you repeat until all the • 2 tbsp water mixture is finished. Serve • 2 tbsp plain flour straight away or pack into • 1 tbsp store-brought pesto a lunch box with hummus • 1 egg and raw veg to take away.
LEFTOVER PORRIDGE BARS
GREEN PANCAKES
leftover • 100g dates • 60ml warm water porridge bars • 150g leftover porridge MAKES: 8 bars • 60g rolled oats PREP: 5 minutes • 2 tbsp desiccated coconut COOK: 15 minutes • 2 tbsp chia or flax seed There is nothing worse than leftover porridge. I hate the 1. Preheat the oven to 180°C waste, but it doesn’t matter Fan. Line a 20cm loaf tin what happens, there is always with baking paper. some! I therefore came up 2. Put the dates and warm with a little solution of making water into a blender and granola bars, which we all love. pulse until they make a You can keep 2–3 days worth of coarse purée. Add to the old porridge in a container in rest of the ingredients and the fridge before making these mix together. Spoon into to ensure you have enough. the lined loaf tin and spread so that it is 1cm thick. NUTRITIONAL NUGGET 3. Bake for 15 minutes, then Oats are rich in beta- take out and leave to cool. Cut glucans, a type of fibre into squares or bar shapes. that is linked to improved The bars can be kept in an immunity and gut health. airtight Tupperware for 3 days.
56 AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2020 thegreenparent.co.uk saffron sticky toffee cake MAKES: 8 slices PREP: 30 minutes COOK: 30 minutes This cake was inspired by a trip to Marrakesh a few years ago. My husband and I went for dinner and had a kind of toffee pudding infused with saffron. Now I’ve re-created it, I’m never having sticky toffee again without saffron – it’s amazing and not so strong that children won’t like it. I’ve added a quick custard, but you can also have it with ice cream or cream. Don’t miss out on the date syrup though as it’s essential! You can use any leftovers for lunch box extras.
• 100g butter or olive oil • medium pinch of saffron (8–10 strands) • 130g gluten-free plain flour • 50g cornflour • 1 ½ tsp baking powder • 1/4 tsp salt • 70g coconut palm sugar or brown sugar SAFFRON STICKY TOFFEE CAKE • 2 eggs • 100g maple syrup or honey • 100ml water • 200g dates "I’m never having sticky toffee again without saffron – CUSTARD • 500ml milk it’s amazing and not so strong that children won’t like it" • 2 tbsp vanilla extract • 2 tbsp maple syrup 3. Weigh out the flour, and date syrup. Heat the milk of time, be sure to cover • 2 eggs cornflour, baking powder, salt in a pan with the vanilla and the surface with clingfilm • 2 tbsp cornflour and sugar into a bowl and maple syrup over a medium to avoid a skin forming. mix well. To a blender add heat. Bring to almost boiling, 7. To make the date syrup, DATE SAUCE the eggs, maple syrup, water then remove from the heat. heat the date syrup and • 100ml (scant ½ cup) date syrup and dates and blend until the Make sure it’s not too hot when butter in a saucepan over a • 100g butter dates are still recognizable, you do the next part as the medium heat. Pour over the but not in chunks. Once eggs will scramble. Beat the sticky toffee cake and serve 1. Preheat the oven to 180°C the butter is infused, add eggs and cornflour in another with the custard on the side. Fan. Line a 20cm round into the wet mixture. bowl until well combined. baking tin with baking paper. 4. Mix the wet mixture into the 6. Pour the hot milk over the 2. Put the butter and saffron dry ingredients and combine eggy mix and whisk in well. more inspiration in a pan. Cook for a couple well so there are no lumps. Pour back into the pan and READ Family Kitchen: of minutes over a very low Pour into the tin and bake for cook over a gentle heat for Simple Healthy Meals for heat until it starts to bubble, 30–35 minutes. The cake is 10 minutes, stirring until Everyone by Natasha Corrett but don’t let it burn. Take ready when a skewer inserted it thickens and coats the (Mums Know Best) off the heat and leave for 30 in comes out a little wet. back of the spoon. If you are EXPLORE Find recipes at minutes (or more) to infuse. 5. Meanwhile, make the custard making the custard ahead Instagram @natashacorrett
AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2020 thegreenparent.co.uk 57 FOOD / MEDICINE
YOUR MEDICINE BAG
sweet pickings Recipe BLACKBERRY TEA The Bramble or Blackberry is ripe with abundant charms MAKES 1 MUG • 1 handful fresh green OING BLACKBERRYING IS A FAVOURITE Indians used a concoction of the roots and leaves blackberry leaves. forgaging expedition. Fingers and lips to help with stomach and digestion problems. • 1 mug water stained dark purple, arms scratched The leaves are high in tannins, and are a natural • Honey by sharp thorns, but triumphant with source of salycilate – a component of aspirin, • (Optional) small pieces G of stem, bark or clean enough of the blackberry harvest to eat fresh which helps to relieve tissue inflammation. or cooked and turned into delicious jams and Chewing the leaves for bleeding, diseased gums root and a few ripe crumbles. In the Celtic Tree Ogham, the bramble and gradually loosening teeth is a remedy that goes berries for colour is the sacred wood for the 10th lunar month. back hundreds of years. The 16th century herbalist, John Gerard suggests in his 'Great Herbal', a recipe Simmer the green leaves ABUNDANT GROWTH of blackberry leaves that had been first boiled in (and bark if used) in Blackberries are part of the rose family and have water with honey, alum and a little white wine the water for about 10 the characteristic flowers, leaves, and thorns to make a mouth rinse for 'fastening' the teeth. minutes (do not boil similar to those found on wild rose bushes. With as this may reduce their long, thorny canes, they are a common sight FOLKLORE the vitamin content). arching among the English lanes and hedgerows, Folk names for the blackberry include bumblekites, Strain into cups and add scrambling over fences, spreading quickly to make bounty thorn, skaldberry, blackbutters, blackbides, honey. Use this hot, as a huge impenetrable barriers if left untended. They gatterberry. In Gaelic it is the prickle thorn - dris- refreshing vitamin and grow well in almost any soil, particularly a sandy muine. According to some English folklore, passing antioxidant filled tea, or one, in sun or shade, but like most plants, they under the archway formed by a bramble branch cold as a gargle for sore will flower (delicate pink and white flowers from will cure (or prevent) all manner of afflictions, throats or as an astringent June through to September) and crop (August and including hernia, ruptures, pimples, and boils. mouthwash. September) better if they find some sunshine. Most of all, blackberries are for eating in abundance. Right off the bush or sprinkled over NATURAL HEALER shortbread and smothered in cream, or added to a Blackberries are revered for their antioxidant bowl of cereal, they also make great jams and wines properties. Rich in Vitamin C, A, Omega-3, and are delicious in pie alone or in combination Potassium and Calcium, all parts of the plant with other seasonal fruits. The dried leaves may have been used for healing. Native American be added to herbal tea blends – see recipe.
58 AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2020 thegreenparent.co.uk FOOD / RECIPES SLOW DOWN Recipes to make use of a glut from the garden (or an abundant veg box!)
Byron Smith with Tess Robinson
SMOKY BABA GHANOUSH
AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2020 thegreenparent.co.uk 59 FOOD / RECIPES
Growing up on the South Coast of New South Wales, my brothers and I were exposed to the practicalities of growing food, maintaining an orchard and raising the odd calf, chicken or kangaroo. Providing food for the family, collecting rainwater and living resourcefully were all essential parts of growing up on an acreage – it’s a lifestyle and upbringing I value dearly. The appreciation and principles I learned as a kid from the bush motivated me to re-create this lifestyle. City living would be better for everyone if we slowed down by focusing on the fun of gardening and creative cooking. For those of you who already have a garden, you know that the size of the garden doesn’t matter – it’s the total experience that it brings you. Maybe it’s the satisfaction of knowing that your basil and chilli are within arm’s reach when it comes time to flavour your favourite dish. The garden-to-plate experience can be as small or as big as you like – the important thing is to enjoy it. I think that the popular surf brand slogan ‘Only a surfer knows the feeling’ can relate to the garden- to-plate lifestyle, too. Only a gardener knows the feeling. We hope these recipes inspire you to soak up the outdoors, reconnect with your food, share with your community and live the good life. If you’re keen to slow down and grow, then you’re ready to go!
cucumber and lemon, courgette ginger smoothie and rosemary bread Harvesting a cucumber is one of our greatest garden This one is for people who CUCUMBER joys – once you try a freshly adore a savoury loaf. It’s great AND GINGER picked cucumber, the toasted under the grill with SMOOTHIE supermarket ones will never some shaved cheese on top. suffice again. The crunch and Savoury, earthy and sweet, this sweetness of a homegrown is the perfect morning snack. HE GARDEN IS A PLACE I’VE COME TO SPEND A cucumber are delightful, We always bake two loaves at a huge part of my life. So much so, it’s become my job to but you can also turn these time – one for us, and another spend hours nurturing and harvesting plants, day in, green wonders into a super for our neighbours. That way, day out. I love my job because people, places and plants refreshing and tasty smoothie. we know we’ll get treated to all offer something new and exciting each and every Try this smoothie on a some of their kombucha when Tday. Working with enthusiastic people to grow the food they love in warm summer’s morning, brewing time comes around! new landscapes keeps the challenge fresh and the rewards fruitful. and you’ll be hooked. For my partner Tess and I, the garden is our refuge and one of MAKES 2 LOAVES the calmest places in which we can be. It’s a place for us to slow SERVES 2 USE down from the crazy pace of modern life. In the garden, your mind USE • 600g spelt flour can unwind, reflect and pause to appreciate the simple beauty of • 1 large cucumber, sliced • 1 teaspoon baking powder nature. As life becomes more hectic and the relentless pursuit to ‘do • 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger • 115 g walnuts, roughly chopped it all’ dominates our days, growing your own food is a rewarding • 1 banana • 2 tablespoons finely antidote and a quiet escape from the stress of the modern world. • 185 ml fresh coconut water chopped rosemary Living in Sydney for nearly ten years, we’ve found the need to • Handful of ice cubes • ½ teaspoon salt create daily rituals that provide us with opportunities to slow down • Pinch of ground cinnamon • 4 eggs and cultivate our own recipe for the good life. We’ve discovered • 540 g grated courgette that gardening and cooking ensure we maintain a simple, DO • 185 ml melted coconut oil meaningful life in the chaos of the city. Whether it’s sipping a cup 1. Place all the ingredients into a • 125 ml melted butter of tea as we water our herbs in the morning light, or spending blender and blend until smooth. • 1½ tablespoons 30 minutes a day tending to our veggie patch, gardening in 2. Pour the smoothie grated lemon zest particular provides us with a time for reflection and tranquillity. mixture into two glasses. • 1 tablespoon honey >>
60 AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2020 thegreenparent.co.uk "We always bake two loaves at a time – one for us, and another for our neighbours"
LEMON, COURGETTE AND ROSEMARY BREAD
AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2020 thegreenparent.co.uk 61 FOOD / RECIPES
USE • 2 medium aubergines. • 65 g tahini • 60 ml lemon juice • 3 garlic cloves, finely minced • 1/2 teaspoon salt • 2 tablespoons parsley leaves, finely chopped + extra leaves for garnish • 1 tablespoon olive oil
DO 1. Prick your aubergines on all sides a few times with a fork. Place them on the barbecue and cook them on medium– high heat for 35–40 minutes. The skin will darken a little and begin to smell smoky, but don’t worry – this enhances the flavour of the dip. Set the aubergines aside and CHOC MINT MOUSSE allow them to cool slightly. 2. In a medium-sized bowl, mix the tahini, lemon DO of grated apple. Rosemary and blend until smooth. juice, garlic and salt. 1. Preheat the oven to 180°C apple is one of our all-time 2. Pour the mixture into 3. Slice the aubergines in (350°F). Grease two 21 x 11 x 7 winning combinations! serving glasses. Refrigerate half lengthways. Drain the cm loaf tins with coconut oil. for 1 hour before serving. excess liquid. Scrape out the 2. In a large bowl, combine flesh with a spoon and add the flour, baking powder, choc mint mousse Oh and if you like crunch, add it to the tahini mixture. walnuts, rosemary and salt. SERVES 4 some cacao nibs to the top 4. Mash the aubergine flesh 3. In a separate bowl, This mousse is the perfect just before serving. We often into the tahini mixture with whisk the eggs. Stir in the dessert for when you’ve replace the mint with half a a fork until it is smooth but courgette, coconut oil, butter, forgotten to make dessert! A teaspoon of finely chopped with a bit of texture remaining. lemon zest and honey. refreshing, healthy and easy fresh chillies – chocolate and Allow the mixture to cool to 4. Slowly add the dry twist on the classic crowd- chilli were made for each other! room temperature and then ingredients to the wet, pleaser, this dessert is so stir in the parsley. Drizzle the stirring as you go. simple and yet so delicious. dip with olive oil and garnish 5. Divide the dough into the The mint washes away the smoky baba with the extra parsley leaves. two loaf tins. Bake for 40–45 sins of any feast, and it is one minutes or until the loaves of the easiest herbs to grow. ghanoush are golden brown. You’ll know Every home garden should MAKES 500 ML each loaf is ready when you have some mint growing in Growing aubergines makes you gently press down on the it. It can thrive in a large pot look like a great gardener. They top and it bounces back. if you only have a sunny little are so prolific – one minute 6. Transfer the loaves to a wire balcony or windowsill. there’s nothing, and the next rack and allow them to cool you’ve got enough to feed an in the tin for a few minutes. USE army. The plant is lush and the Take the loaves out of the • 4 large avocados, peeled, fruits are abundant. This is a tins and place them on the halved and stone removed classic baba ghanoush we love rack to cool completely. • 20 g mint leaves, finely chopped for an afternoon snack or to more inspiration 7. Serve slices with butter and • 235 g honey lather on sandwiches. We prefer READ Slow Down and ricotta, or toast them under • 105 g cacao powder the texture slightly lumpy; if Grow Something: The the grill with some cheese. • 125 ml coconut cream you like it silkier, feel free to Urban Grower’s Recipe 8. Freeze a loaf if you like • Pinch of sea salt use a food processor instead for the Good Life. or give it to a neighbour. of the good old fork. We enjoy Cultivate. Cook. Share. Oh and if you’ve got more of a DO making ours on the barbecue, by Byron Smith and Tess sweet tooth, replace the grated 1. Place all the ingredients but you can also make it in Robinson Murdoch Books courgette with the same amount into a food processor and the oven on high heat.
62 AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2020 thegreenparent.co.uk HOME / GARDEN Green FINGERS Science experiments and projects in the garden
FUN AND LEARNING GO HAND-IN-HAND. the end use. For example, what about allowing and where better to start than in the garden. the grass to grow longer in places, and letting Growing things is naturally engaging, and kids more wildflowers grow in it? The bees and other can learn such a wide variety of skills. Here you’ll wildlife will appreciate the extra nectar, and it find a few of our favourite activities to really shouldn’t affect any play. Remember, what is dive into learning inspired by your garden. needed from the garden will change over time, As a family, it’s probably important to be able and so it, too, can evolve with small, gradual to enjoy the garden in different ways. There are changes that can be just as exciting as introducing many ways to introduce changes that don’t affect big new features, or planting up new borders. >
AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2020 thegreenparent.co.uk 63 HOME / GARDEN
both the clay–sand scale and the pH (acid/alkaline) Soil type To create a new bed or Other than light levels, soil type scale. Don’t despair if the border in the ground: is the main factor that will affect soil is at one extreme or the • Mark out its edges with which plants will thrive. Soil other, as all soils can be easily a hose or a line of sand. can be sticky clay that bakes improved over time. The best • Use a spade to cut out hard in dry summers and is way to do this is to add plenty of around the edges. If prone to waterlogging in winter. compost or well-rotted manure needed, slice under the It could be dry and sandy soil every year. Give it a sniff – good- grass to remove it (pile that drains water away well in quality compost and well-rotted up the grass, upside winter but needs a lot more manure shouldn’t smell bad! down, and it will rot watering in summer. Or it could There is increasing evidence down into soil again). be somewhere in between. that it is best to leave the soil to • Dig over the area Clay helps to hold on to more its own devices, allowing worms thoroughly, removing nutrients, making the soil more and other soil creatures to any roots and fertile, but sand helps with incorporate a layer of compost large stones. drainage. Each soil type supports put on the surface every year, • Spread a thick layer different types of plants. rather than carrying out a lot of compost over the of digging. This allows the top. Turn and mix EXPERIMENT: Can you complicated soil structure this in with the soil using make a soil sausage? and ecosystem to continue a garden fork or spade. To find out where your garden undisturbed, and saves a lot 'Clay helps • Walk (do a penguin is on the clay to sand scale, take of work for the gardeners shuffle) over the a small scoop of soil from a – a win-win situation. to hold on to whole area to start to few places around the garden However, when creating level it out, then finish and mix them all together. Wet a new area of garden, some more nutrients, levelling with a rake. it slightly, then take a small digging can be beneficial. • Plant or sow with seeds handful. First, roll it into a ball. Lawns especially can lead to making the soil If it feels gritty and doesn’t hold the soil beneath becoming Note that gardens of well, the soil is sandy. If it holds very compacted, so turning more fertile, newly built houses often in a ball it has some clay. Next, the soil over and digging in have very thin soil and try rolling it into a sausage plenty of compost before but sand helps lots of rubble beneath, shape. If this is possible there planting can help aerate it with drainage' so more compost and is a greater proportion of clay and improve the drainage. extra topsoil may be in the soil. If the sausage can be needed once the rubble bent into a ring, it is heavy clay. Making a new border has been removed. The terms beds and borders are EXPERIMENT: often used interchangeably by Test the soil’s acidity gardeners, but both mean an Another great experiment is area of ground that houses a to find out whether the soil is selection of plants, as opposed acidic or alkaline (or neutral). to lawn or paving. Typically, Most plants grow best in a borders have something behind neutral to slightly acidic soil, but them, such as a hedge or wall, extremes of acidity or alkalinity and are longer and thinner can make growing difficult. than a bed, which can be Purchase a pH testing kit from isolated in the middle of a lawn a garden centre or online and (sometimes called an island follow the pack instructions. bed). Borders also typically For a more detailed analysis contain longer-term plantings of the soil, RHS members of shrubs and perennials, can send a sample to the soil whereas beds are used for science laboratory for testing. bedding (annual) plants. However, it’s not necessary to get How to improve the soil the terminology right to have The ideal soil is in the middle of a beautifully planted garden!
64 AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2020 thegreenparent.co.uk HOME / GARDEN
Grow - Keep well-watered, Growing especially in hot weather when plants can bolt (flower and then salad leaves make seeds), which results in Growing a selection of bitter, tough leaves. Pull out different salad leaves – from any bolted plants and discard. dark and spicy to sweet and Pick- Harvest the oldest leaves crunchy – means there will be (those around the outside) something everyone will like. each time, starting when the plant has reached about Varieties to try - Many retailers 5–10cm in height. Always leave offer packets of mixed varieties, a few leaves on the plant. which are a good choice in a small space. To create the salad art below, you will need a few packets of individual YOUR STORIES varieties – try green and red lettuces, rocket, pak choi, sorrel and purple basil. What’s the most Sow - Sow direct where they are unusual container to grow, sprinkling the seeds in you’ve used a thin line or sparingly over the for growing? top of a pot and covering with a thin layer of compost. Rather Eleanor Garfunkel than sowing the whole row at Old chimney pots 'Rather than sowing the whole once, sow part rows every two Vicky Seviour- weeks to ensure a good supply Crockett We have a row at once, sow part rows every over the whole summer and herb wheelbarrow, into autumn. First sowings can and old plastic two weeks to ensure a good supply be made from mid-spring; the drums with lillies last sowing in late summer. over the whole summer'
READ PROJECT: Salad art from garden centres or online). RHS Get Growing Why not create a living picture Stuff moss into each by Holly Farrell, by sowing different colours 2 basket, then wire them Published Frances and types of leaves in patterns? together into a globe. Lincoln, rrp £14.99, Geometric designs, such as Top up the moss by available from online squares and stripes, are the 3 pushing it through the gaps retailers and most straightforward, but so it is a relatively tight ball. bookshops why not try spirals or faces? Soak the whole thing in Sprinkle the pattern over the 4 water for ten minutes then soil with sand first to help get stand it over a bucket until the seeds in the right place. the excess has dripped away. Alternatively, make a globe Carefully push the of salad using hanging baskets. 5 rootballs of small lettuce Ambitious gardeners could plants into the moss, spaced even try using purple leaves evenly around the globe for landmass and green for (about 10cm, apart). oceans to create a lettuce earth. Hang in a sunny spot and 6 water and/or spray daily to Take two hemispherical keep the moss damp, mixing 1 (half-globe shaped) in some liquid feed regularly. hanging baskets and a bag of The lettuce will grow to sphagnum moss (available 7 cover the whole ball.
AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2020 thegreenparent.co.uk 65 A ROOM of one’s own Erika Kotite introduces a little piece of heaven in your back yard PHOTOGRAPHY: Kim Snyder
HE SHED. HEN HUT. LADY LAIR. call it what you want, the newest iteration of a woman’s private space is looking more and more like a small-but- splendid room built in Sthe backyard. She sheds are mushrooming on properties near and far in a wonderful array of sizes, styles, and uses. From Australia to Alaska, Texas to Ukraine, women are staking claim to a completely personal space to call their own. The beauty of a she shed is its small footprint, making it easy to fit onto your property and still afford a unique getaway for your creative pursuits—gardening, meditating, reading, painting, or simply hearing yourself think. Most she sheds are built with simplicity at the forefront. They are often not insulated but stocked instead with cosy quilts and pillows. Light is supplied by the sun or maybe by a few battery-operated lights. The idea is to be free of responsibility, using the space to unwind and to do exactly what you want. Part of the fun of a she shed is using salvage and recycled finds. You’ll finally have a perfect use for that wonderful carved door you bought at an estate sale five years ago. Your shed provides the space for that collection of old clocks or tinted seltzer bottles buried in the closet. As women, we handle a heavy load of responsibility: jobs, marriage, children, household chores, and social obligations. Often we are part of the “sandwich generation,” in which we take care of both our young ones and our aging parents. Days will go by in which we must ask ourselves, “Have I had one minute alone, in the quiet, to myself?” She sheds are a refuge of comfort, filled with promise and your treasured possessions. They are there for however you want to use them. A she shed is for you, and you alone. MEET JENNY! Jenny Karp is a mixed-media artist in California who also sells organic paint online. The busy >
66 AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2020 thegreenparent.co.uk Jenny Karp’s she shed reflects her Hawaiian background and the rustic ranch that her mother was raised on. Wide French doors open onto a spacious room with painted plywood floors
AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2020 thegreenparent.co.uk 67 HOME / GARDEN
Hawaii) with the down- to-earth practicality Clever storage of a ranch. “My mom grew up on her family’s ideas include this ranch, so I wanted my shed to be rustic and red file drawer with mostly made of recycled wood,” Karp says. magnetized containers The shed’s design incorporated plenty of attached to its side. windows, including in the doors. With so much natural light, Karp can set up her video camera to shoot from the outside looking inside—the windows open wide for this purpose as well as for ventilation.
BUILDER’S NOTES For shed foundations, a flat surface is 1 ideal (and easiest). Jenny laid down unmortared bricks, which are sturdy and also drain water through the openings. Keep your shed watertight. Pay careful 2 attention to cracks and openings; caulk everything thoroughly. Doors, windows, and roofs must be built with proper sealing, such as weatherstripping and flashing. If possible, let your nearly finished shed go through a rainstorm or two to see what needs fixing. Greenhouses often have semi- 3 transparent roofs made with polycarbonate panels. These corrugated panels allow light in and keep the rain out. This could be a good option for illuminating your own she shed.
MORE INSPIRATION READ She Sheds: A Room of Your Own by Erika Kotite (Quarto Knows) EXPLORE Jenny’s art at glitterfarm.com
> wife, mother, and business owner yearned for a place where she could create art and shoot video tutorials. The answer was a shed designed by Dana O’Brien of A Place to Grow/Recycled Greenhouses. “I worked out the design with Dana, and in four weeks we were ready to go,” Karp says. “The rest of the time was spent finding materials and making the money that I needed to build it.” Three months later, Karp walked back in to O’Brien’s shop with about half the money necessary. O’Brien suggested that Karp look for her own windows and doors instead of purchasing them from her inventory. A friend of Karp’s had some windows stored in her barn. They were fifty years old but had never been used, and she gave them to Karp for the shed. The shed’s construction Another friend provided an old French door. With includes large windows the savings, along with reusing the wood from a on both sides and in pergola in Karp’s yard that had to be torn down, the the back and a double shed’s budget was met and the construction began. French door in the front Karp wanted an aesthetic that combined the feel of a beach house (she is originally from
68 AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2020 thegreenparent.co.uk HOME / TRAVEL
Ways to Travel the World (without leaving home) Unpack our five ideas to create the sights, sounds and smells of a holiday abroad
Canvas Intentions A change of sleep scenery makes you feel 1as if you’re somewhere new. If you have a big enough garden and your own tent, pitching it on your lawn and sleeping under canvas is a mini holiday. Tell stories around a fire or barbecue, toast marshmallows and sing songs before you tuck up for the night. If you’re feeling super-adventurous, make your own shelter or sleep under the stars. If you don’t have outside space, improvise indoors. Make a blanket tent and illuminate it with fairy lights before bedding down for the night in it. Or create a new sleeping space under a table, behind a sofa or under the stairs. Pack a midnight feast or get up before dawn for more new experiences and sensations. >
AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2020 thegreenparent.co.uk 69 HOME / TRAVEL
Get Swotting Part of the joy of 3holidaying is trying to speak a new language, or dusting down the long-forgotten words of one you may already know. Children’s brains are elastic, and learning to speak French, German, Chinese or Welsh Listen Up comes far more easily to them. The aural rhythms of a country can Use a phrase book or an app transport you immediately. Whether 2 to learn, or, better still, meet or it’s crickets chirping, waves crashing, chat online with a friend who’s or the beep-beeps of little mopeds, a native speaker. Or watch films taking a sound bath in a country’s you know well dubbed into native noises gives a sharp impression foreign languages, or with the of the place. Try searching archives subtitles turned on. Learn funny online for market noises, jungle words, act out silly scenarios recordings, or seaside soundscapes, using your new language, then turn off the lights, turn up your or throw the odd word in speakers, and immerse yourself in randomly in everyday chat. them. Alternatively, delve into the “Felices vacaciones” everyone! music of a region. Find out what pop artists top a country’s charts, and sing along, or delve back further and listen to traditional rhythms and melodies online or on record. Perhaps you might buy or make appropriate instruments or rhythm makers and play along.
Beach Life Mondo Menu Missing the feeling of There’s no better way to get to know a nation than by trying out its food. Why not theme your 4sand between your toes and 5shopping around a different country each week? Some supermarkets run Spanish, French, eastern the warm surf? There’s nothing European and Asian events, which may help you find more obscure eats, or, for a more immersive that can
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New Kids FASHION Pick of the best eco threads for your little ones in the late summer sun
SCOTTISH ADVENTURE Frugi have infused playful, colourful accents of the rugged Scottish Highlands and Islands to present their new collection of organic children’s wear and accessories. The Frugi design team wrapped up warm, donned their wellies and walking boots and had a fantastically Scottish adventure. From Glasgow, Loch Lomond and Tobermory to the Isle of Skye, Ben Nevis and Edinburgh they were inspired by their beautiful surroundings from the flora and fauna to stunning snow-capped mountains, lochs and landscapes…along with a fleecy friend or two. Think cheeky red squirrels, happy hares and hedgehogs, busy sheepdogs, GROW YOUR OWN! playful puffins, hungry Highland cows, and The Grow Your Own range recently launched at Piccalilly and has been other playful critters. GOTS certified cotton is super popular. Launched in conjunction with a Grow Your Own’ campaign, used throughout the Frugi range making the encouraging parents to start growing fruit and veg with their children, clothes super-soft and snuggly and ideal for it’s been a hotbed of activity. “We encouraged customers to share their little one’s sensitive skin. welovefrugi.com experiences on social media and hashtag in ‘piccalillygyo’,”, says brand founder Hannah Evans. “And we had a wonderful response!” piccalilly.co.uk
PERFECT PATTERNS can be expected to buy organic The latest collection at Pigeon products all the time, but we Organics is inspired by the hope that when people have the warm Mediterranean sun, choice, they will think about beautiful tiles and colourful the positive benefits to the textiles. All clothes by the brand environment, to the farmers are 100% organic and made and their families, that organic in a small number of factories farming can bring. We also which adhere to fair try to minimise our own labour practices. “We environmental impact, work with hundreds of so all of our company’s small independent electricity comes from retailers - we want renewable sources to support vibrant and we are currently high streets in our in transition to towns and cities,” compostable bags says founder for our packaging.” Jane Shepherd. Visit pigeon “Not everyone organics.com
AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2020 thegreenparent.co.uk 73 NEXT ISSUE IN GreTheen Parent UNSCHOOLING Rituals for Living and learning Finding well together Meaning Creating magic for our kids
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74 AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2020 thegreenparent.co.uk FASHION / SECOND-HAND We Love
'WE PLAN AHEAD AND HAVE A 'BIG BOY' BOX FOR THE NEXT SIZE THINGS. PASS IT ON WE ALSO PASS ON OUR CLOTHES' Each year, Oxfam run Second-hand September, a time to take a pledge to buy no new clothes or a block colour. I find kids for any clothes is important. I clothes are too small to deal look for bulk bundles on eBay; for a month. However, for many of us, pre-loved with one at a time but after most of the time it's all very shopping, passing on, and making clothes last is a time there is enough to dye. good. If you get a shoe measure way of life. We asked you to give us your best tips! Your children may have grown from Clark’s, say, you can also out of them but it means when get shoes second-hand. We ✽ “There is a swapshop across uncomfortable thinking about you pass them on they can be plan ahead and have a 'big boy' Northern Ireland, no money the ethics of cheap clothing.” used and not just turned to rag. box for the next size things. passes hands, people offer Naomi Cox via Facebook Maxine McVeigh via Facebook We also pass on our clothes. what they don't need and ✽ “We have set up a local ✽ “My best tip is to get friends People have such lovely things others ask instead of buying. swap in Berwickshire, mostly to look out for things you need. to pass on and when young they It works really well.” Vicky focusing on childrens clothes. We have a WhatsApp group grow so fast some are hardly Seviour-Crockett via Facebook People donate their unwanted that we use to list things we worn or never worn.” Anna ✽ “Where did the jumble sales clothes, and for a £1 entry fee all need – it’s not too long to Cooper-Ryan via Facebook and sense of community go? you can rummage and take keep manageable – so just ✽ “We buy a lot of organic kids I spend a fortune on my boy’s what you need for free. We before I go into charity shop I clothes from small shops when clothes even though they’re are looking into becoming a remind myself what they’re on they have sales. I buy unisex ‘cheap’ from supermarkets, I charity so we can make clothes the lookout for and see if I can so they suit both my boy and don’t have time to shop on eBay available as emergency clothing pick it up. We pass the clothes girl. We also buy and sell on as I work full time as part time parcels. It has grown into around after the children Facebook pages that are brand- won’t cover all the bills. We used something amazing.” grow, so I usually end up specific (Duns and Maxomorra), to get bags of hand-me-downs Catherine Goldsmith seeing it again!” Maxine and with the money we make from people my mum knew via Facebook McVeigh via Facebook or buy more in bigger sizes and loved rifling though jumble ✽ “We keep all our ✽ “We are virtually to put away or rotate.” Steph sales at village halls and schools. stained clothes fully second-hand. Walters via Facebook We need to make this happen that are perfectly Making sure again, as there’s so much fine and dye friends and family Find out more about senseless waste, the poor are them all in one with older children Secondhand September becoming poorer, and I’m also go. Either tie dye know we’re grateful at oxfamapps.org
AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2020 thegreenparent.co.uk 75 STARS
Sagittarius Aries 23 Nov - 21 Dec 21 Mar - 20 Apr “The realist sees reality “A hunch is creativity trying as concrete. The optimist to tell you something.” - sees reality as clay.” - Robert Brault. Frank Capra. If you can stay within your HOROSCOPES There is an adventurous feel to August limits and not bite off more than you Donna Taylor explores the heavens to find out making this the month to take a trip or can chew; if you can remember to rein what's in store for you in the coming months believe more fervently in a dream, and yourself in when it feels more tempting the more able you are to remember to over-stretch yourself or take on that you shape your reality with your mighty giants, this could be a fun time, thoughts, the more miraculous life especially if you focus on being creative will begin to be. There should be no and allowing your instincts to guide you stopping you by the time September accordingly. The more you push against rolls around and this is a month when something the more problems you’re you can begin to move forward in your likely to have, but if you can let go and life as success and achievement beckon. simply enjoy life, you will find success. Capricorn Taurus 22 Dec - 20 Jan 21 Apr - 21 May “The snake which cannot There is a domestic cast its skin has to die.” theme running through – Friedrich Nietzsche. You’ve probably August, making this the ideal time to shed a few skins in recent years as enjoy family activities. This has to be Leo 23 July - 23 Aug Virgo 24 Aug - 22 Sep you have been in a time of profound balanced against pursuing your own Everyone’s batteries run down “Notice what happens when change and transformation, and it’s agenda, for Uranus in your sign requests occasionally, usually when you follow your intuitive this willingness to let go of what you that you remain true to your ideals. we’ve been doing too much feelings. The result is usually were attached to that has led you to a Ultimately though, the late summer of what we have to do and increased energy and place of strength. August sees a rebirth months are a great time to return to not enough of what we love. If power, and a sense of things of sorts, when you can further let go base, to nurture yourself, explore your of ideas, beliefs and situations that no creativity and to enjoy what is around you’ve been feeling flat, August flowing.” - Shakti Gawain. We longer serve you, and the result will be a you. As George Moore said, “A man gives you a prescription for live in an increasingly rational renewal. And then the adventure begins, travels the world over in search of what attending to your own needs and technological world which is where September finds you. he needs, and returns home to find it.” and engaging in activities that which makes the intuitive jump start your soul. Then as faculty harder to reach. Aquarius Gemini inspiration begins to flow, it will Don’t let this happen to you, 21 Jan - 18 Feb 22 May - 21 June “A part of kindness “No problem can be solved be time for a new beginning particularly in August when consists in loving people from the same level of of some sort. As Goethe you will have a direct line to more than they deserve.” - Joseph consciousness that created it.” - Albert said, “Whatever you can do, your unconscious, that rich Joubert. Relationships and your personal Einstein. Whatever problem you have or dream you can, begin it. fertile place where ideas, life take centre stage during late summer in your life, and no matter whether it’s Boldness has genius, power, solutions and inspiration can and the challenge may be to not just a recurring issue or something more and magic in it. Begin it now.” be found. By tuning in to your forgive others but to allow them to recent, August brings the likelihood of This renewal of energy will then inner self and following its forgive you too. We all make mistakes; we a break-through. This could be a time lead you to be so much more promptings, you will sail into all treat other people less than graciously of insight and revelation which could productive, and September September with a stronger from time to time, but now is the propel you into a new phase of life – just brings financial rewards for sense of who you are and opportunity to direct your attention into remember to ground yourself in the your relationships so that they become process. September will be a calmer your increasing efforts. what you need to do next. a source of strength and nourishment. softer month as the natural desire will From that place, intimacy will grow. be to return to base and hunker down.
Libra Scorpio Pisces 19 Feb - 20 Mar Cancer 23 Sep - 23 Oct 24 Oct -22 Nov There is beauty in the 22 June - 22 July “Some have entertained There is a dynamic feel perfect order of the “In life, you don’t get what angels unaware.” - St to late summer, making cosmos and it’s worth you deserve, you get what Paul. The world is full of people who August the time to make a move, start a asking where we would be if the sun you negotiate.” - Chester L. Karass. would like to help, given half the chance, new project, change your direction or set didn’t rise at a set time each day, or Few people feel comfortable asking for and sometimes those people can be yourself a goal. The only word of caution if the seasons didn’t come at their what they want; good examples of this messengers from God. An overheard is to not overstretch yourself or become allotted time, if the leaves didn’t fall include asking the boss for a pay rise fragment of conversation, a smile from frustrated if things don’t happen as from their trees or the moon forgot to or haggling for a better price on goods. a stranger, or a friend appearing when quickly as you’d like or in the way you show up at night. Life - as any parent But as the Sun and Mercury align in you need a boost can all be methods planned. A little flexibility will help you knows - works better when there is your money zone you may be surprised of divine intervention. During August achieve your goals in a sane and healthy order and routine, and August brings at what you can get if you ask for it. your world will light up if you can way. Remembering to take time out to the opportunity to create better results September is the month to reassess engage more with others and welcome be with friends and enjoy the social side by living within a regular rhythm. As your direction: are you happy with where their assistance. Then in September, of life, especially in September, will make Mike Murdock says, “The secret of your you are going? If not, know that a positive it will be time to rest and reflect. the whole process more enjoyable. future is hidden in your daily routine.” attitude will lead to your success.
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LAST WORD
Claire Ashbourne considers how to make nurturing book EARTH MOTHER choices for young children
THERE IS A BEWILDERING ARRAY OF the child. Books for this age may children’s books for parents and carers to seem to adults fairly boring. Books choose from. In my 20 years of parenting about a child putting on their I have seen the children’s sections in book clothes, books with objects that a shops grow from a couple of shelves at child sees every day. These are the the back to engulf an entire floor. This is books we need to look for. Familiar amazing. In a fairly short space of time sights establish connection. Relatable the industry has boomed. Everyone pictorial content that matches a child’s values and knows of the virtues of life is important here. So a book featuring reading with children. But which giraffes and monkeys at this age had books are any good? How do we zero relevance or comprehension decide what will appeal to young for my children, we didn’t live on children? How can we choose a game reserve, they had never books that are really going to ever seen giraffes (or aliens, pirates, meet the needs of our children astronauts, rabbits wearing clothes at different ages? It’s not simply a or skyscrapers). But a book with matter of taste either. As a lover of a child jumping in a puddle, or children’s literature I have picked having a bath, or a squirrel in a tree, up the popular, cool books that or a cat lying on the windowsill I see advertised on social media was engaging because there was and…. well there is often nothing already a lived experience to of substance there. Or they just match. Books with clapping and don’t meet the age requirements rhyme and gestures or songs that and level of development that you sing at other times also forge they’re aimed at. We need help familiarity and connection. choosing books that will nurture Adults often want to bombard our children as they grow. Books children with books about flying to that help create and anticipate future book the moon in a frying pan or with strange lovers and further enrich a young child’s 'When a child no longer needs creatures that don’t actually exist in nature understanding rather than confuse. to constantly mouth or throw because they want to ‘stimulate their child’s Elinor Goldschmied wrote a book on imagination’. Wait! Hold on. Wait until you respectful child care called People Under the book, the content becomes see your child’s imagination develop in Three. She notes:Firstly an infant grasping of greater interest to the child' parallel in their play. There is plenty of time. an object asks, “what is this?” To find this Stick to recognisable a little longer; relax out they hold the item, turning it over, do with this?” And we can begin to see and allow your child to begin to understand feeling the texture, sucking to help figure humour and imagination; the banana their world and life around them first. out temperature, weight, shape, depth. They becomes a telephone, a bowl is a hat, the When we see children’s emerging creative do this with everything they come into little blocks are fed to the cat as ‘food’. and inventive play with objects; when a box contact with. Providing as many natural The content of books at the beginning becomes a sailing boat, or they’re pushing objects as possible (rather than a bunch stage might not seem relevant as an infant and rolling something that has the noise of of plastic toys) gives an infant extremely figures out just what this object, a book, is. an engine then you know the time is right rich and rewarding play experiences and It’s made of something that gets wet and can to introduce fantasy and this will support support their understandings of the world come apart, it sometimes makes a ripping exactly where they are in their development. through these objects and how they behave. sound, it has images and can make adults Using these sorts of observations of Secondly as they mature, infants wonder; sing or clap. The sounds adults make when your child’s play can vastly help the “what does this thing do?”. Then they can reading are joyful, repetitive, predictable. sort of book selections you make. No be observed sliding a small object through The images or contrasts of colour or familiar longer are they random but thoughtful a tube, stacking items on top of each other, scenes are mostly secondary but can grab an and compatible with experience and throwing, manipulating, banging things infant’s interest especially when combined early childhood development. together. What noise does this make? with an adult making familiar actions or What happens when I put it here? with a sight of the real object or experience. Claire is a home maker, home educator, By the time a toddler reaches two When a child no longer needs to sometimes even home birther. Mother of years of age or thereabouts they begin constantly mouth or throw the book, the four seeks sanity by writing about daily
to ask themselves thirdly; “what can I content becomes of greater interest to life. Beauty, mud and dog hair included. JESSICA RAE GORDON ILLUSTRATION
80 AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2020 thegreenparent.co.uk Green Parent Magazine_Full Page_210x275mm_FINAL.pdf 1 10/07/2020 14:24
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COMPETITION PROOF
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ROOKIE READERS NOVICE NOVELISTS AGE 36 AGE 69
FICTION LOVERS FACT LOVERS Where AGE 914 AGE 914 should we start?
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