NURTURE PARENTING MAGAZINE

FREE 2025 Christmas Gift Guide + Family Memory Makers Planner 👀

Hey mama’s 🐝 

Our Christmas Gift Guide is now live — a curated collection of gentle, ethical gift ideas for families.

Alongside the guide, enjoy our FREE Memory Makers Planner, designed to support year-round connection, reflection and meaningful family memories. Explore everything:

What Is Fast Fashion and Why Is It So Bad?

Let's explore with Sandra, an eco-conscious parent and founder of León&BirdMaking clothes is labour-intensive, and labour costs account for the largest portion of costs in the entire garment production process. This means the price of an actual person measuring, cutting, sewing and packing a garment is key in the overall production costs (and ultimately, profits). With garment manufacturing jobs in western countries declining steadily over the last 50 years, fashion brands first started scouting for cheaper labour in the 50’s. This has resulted in an exponential growth of garment factories in countries such as China, Indonesia, Turkey, Mexico, Bangladesh and India.  For us consumers though, this has meant that while prices of everything else continue to rise, clothes are cheaper than ever before! Good, right? Hmm…let’s think again about the real cost of fast fashion.

A brief history of buying clothes...Shopping for clothes used to be an occasional event—marking a special occasion, rite of passage or change of season.  They were well looked after, mended, cherished and worn for many many years, then passed down. But around 20 years ago, something changed. Clothes became increasingly cheaper, trends seemed to come and go faster than ever, and shopping became a hobby. Today, it’s the norm to purchase an item (and this is made so much easier and more efficient with one-click online purchases), wear it a few times (or even at all!) and then discard it!  In 1900, 15% of a US household's income was spent on clothing. In 1950, it was 12%. But by 2004, the total amount spent by households on clothes had dropped to a tiny 4%! By 2010, it was 2.8%. In 1997, the average woman in the UK bought 19 items of clothing a year; in 2007, this increased to 34! So, what is fast fashion?Fast fashion is basically cheap, on-trend, (low-quality and made using synthetic fibres) clothing inspired by the catwalk or the latest celebrity fad. In lightning speed, the latest fashion appears in all the ‘popular’ stores soon after a fashion trend has gone viral (thanks to a celeb or social media star).  The fast fashion movement first came about because major western brands, (which dominate fashion sales), wanted to find new ways to create further demand in an already saturated fashion market. It was pioneered by Inditex, the Spanish company that owns Zara, and quickly adopted by retailers across the world.  The idea is to get the latest styles on the market as fast as possible, so consumers ‘snap them up while they’re hot’, and sadly, discard them after one or two wears. Subsequently, (and purposefully), it has created the culture that outfit repeating is a fashion no-no and to stay relevant, one must buy into the latest fashion trend.  This toxic culture of over consumption forms a key part of the shocking system of overproduction that has made fashion one of the world’s largest polluters. Fast fashion environmental impacts...The preposterous pressure to reduce costs and speed up production times mean that environmental considerations are seldom prioritised.  1. Water pollution caused by cheap chemical textile dyes and pesticides.2. Water wastage which can result in drought risks and stress on water resources in communities. The fabrication of fibres such as conventional cotton can utilise enormous amounts of water in the production process.3. Planet-warming greenhouse gas emissions and air pollutants. Fast fashion is generally made using cheap fabrics such as polyester. These synthetic fibres are derived from fossil fuels which release planet-warming greenhouse gas emissions, and air pollutants that increase the risk of respiratory illness and other diseases.4. Land clearing, impacted biodiversity, and reduced soil quality. With the non-stop pace of manufacturing and continuous consumer demand, this means pressure on finite natural resources and the need to constantly grow supply capabilities to meet demand. 5. Enormous amounts of landfill. Our culture of ‘buy, wear once and discard’ has sadly contributed to Australians being the second highest consumers of textiles per person in the world (second only to the USA). Each Aussie consumes an average of 27kg of new clothing per year, and 23kg of this ends up in landfill each year! Why is fast fashion so bad?Fast fashion not only has dire environmental consequences as listed above, but the fast fashion movement breeds a toxic culture of over-consumption and a whole generation of self-conscious young people who believe that being accepted into society means having the latest fashion items. It also fuels the thousands of garment factories (some, illegal) where unethical practices run rampant. This can include humanitarian issues such as forced labour, child labour, unsafe or unsanitary working conditions, and below standard pay (to name a few of the issues). One such example of the dangers of fast fashion is the Rana Plaza tragedy, which I'll explain in more detail in a future post.  Who are the biggest companies in the fast fashion industry in Australia?According to IBISWorld, they include, Cotton On Clothing Pty Ltd, Zara Australia Pty Limited, Uniqlo Australia Pty Ltd and H&M Hennes & Mauritz Pty Limited. How can we avoid fast fashion?~ Have an appreciation that your clothes aren’t ‘made’ by machines. Yes, there’s cutting and sewing and printing machines that help workers get the job done, but clothes are still sewn by PEOPLE ~~ Invest in quality. It can be tricky to know whether a garment is “good quality” but the first giveaway sign is if you’re paying $10 for a product, it’s probably produced in a fast-fashion sweatshop where workers may be mistreated, underpaid, made to work against their will, or in unacceptable conditions. Did you know it’s not uncommon for people to be CHAINED to their work stations in some sweatshops? ~~ Demand your brands prove they only use ethical factories. Ask them for a list of their manufacturers and independent certification of ethical practices (such as our ethical kids manufacturing facility’s certificate here). At León & Bird, any of our manufacturing partners MUST have an independent ethical certification. This means they’re independently audited for fair remuneration, good working conditions, and fair policies to name a few ~~ Look for sustainable and ethical labels, logos and information (try browsing their website for a sustainability statement) from the brands you shop from ~~ Babies and kids grow so quickly, so once they’ve outgrown a garment - kindly pass it on! We want to avoid the sheer volume of clothing in the world (that ultimately ends up in landfill). So whether you pass it onto a sibling or friend - it’s great to keep them going. I like to bag up clothing by size and pass on ~~ Mend your clothing ~~ Shop at secondhand/thrift/vintage stores ~  If you found this post interesting or helpful, I’d love you to share it with your friends or family! "My vision is to bring you practical, fun and colourful childrenswear that is inspired by the magic of imagination, whilst supporting our most precious resources - people, animals, and our planet."- Sandra, founder of  León&Bird -   SHOP

FOR THE LOVE OF LEARNING AS SEEN IN ISSUE #23

OUR TOP 7 EDUCATIONAL GIFT IDEAS "Education begins the moment we see children as innately wise and capable beings. Only then can we play along in their world." Vince Gowmon Check out this issues top educational resources for some nurtured inspiration this Christmas.

#1

RAISING READERS BY MEGAN DALEYA gentle guide for parents and educators to help foster a love of reading in children from birth and beyond. Award-winning teacher librarian Megan Daley unpacks twenty years of experience in children’s literature in this personable and accessible guide, enhanced with up-to-date research and firsthand accounts from well-known Australian children’s authors. Megan says, 'creating a culture of reading in your home encourages self-awareness, kindness and empathy, reduces stress and opens up new worlds and ways of thinking.’ Easy to follow, practical, and bursting with great book recommendations, activity ideas and more, Raising Readers is essential reading.Some kids refuse to read, others won't stop - not even at the dinner table!When should you start reading to your child? How do you find that special book to inspire a reluctant reader? How can you tell if a book is age appropriate? What can you do to keep your tween reading into their adolescent years? Award-winning teacher librarian Megan Daley has the answers to all these questions and more. She unpacks her fifteen years of experience into this personable and accessible guide, enhanced with up-to-date research and first-hand accounts from well-known Australian children's authors. It also contains practical tips, such as suggested reading lists and instructions on how to run book-themed activities. Published by UQP, ‘Raising Readers’ is a must-have guide for parents and educators to help the children in their lives fall in love with books. To purchase the book, click the button or to learn more about Megan, visit Children's Books Daily. BUY NOW $21.90 #2

MY MILK WILL GO OUR LOVE WILL GROWBY JESSICA ELDER My Milk Will Go, Our Love Will Grow is a children’s book written to help mothers talk to young children about weaning from breastfeeding. Using simple words, rhyme, and relatable illustrations, this book helps children gain an understanding of the transition while addressing day and nighttime weaning. It acknowledges feelings while reassuring children that emotional needs will still be met, and that love and nurturing will always continue. It is a sweet keepsake to represent the beautiful breastfeeding relationship. This book was written by Jessica Elder, mother of four and clinical social worker. It can be purchased internationally, online, through Amazon. ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Jessica Elder, LMSW, LCSW is the author of My Milk Will Go, Our Love Will Grow, a book for weaning. Jessica is a mother of four who helps parents support children with transitions through communication, connection, and creative play. READER REVIEWS: 'Beautiful weaning book. Immensely poetic and guiding for mums in this tough transition. Much needed. I sobbed when I read the title out loud.' BUY NOW $19.99 #3

HAPPY GO DUCKYNATURAL HANDMADE TOYSAt Happy Go Ducky, our mission has and always will be to remain plastic-free! We love sourcing hard to find, natural handmade toys that are non-toxic and sustainable from boutique brands all over Europe. All of our packing materials are also recycled, recyclable and bio-degradable. We're a small family-owned business located in Sydney, Australia, and our passion is sourcing unique, traditional, and one of a kind children's toys that will be loved, cherished and passed on when the time comes. Visit our online store and find the perfect keepsake gift for this Christmas!  CUSTOMER REVIEWS: 'Thank you so much to the team at Happy Go Ducky for making my shopping experience an enjoyable one. I contacted the team enquiring about stock availability for a particular item, not only did they respond back to me within an hour they despatched my order on the next business day. I would highly recommend this business to anyone looking for great service and beautiful products.' BUY NOW FROM $26 #4

TOTLI AUSTRALIAMONTESSORI-INSPIRED TOYS Totli is changing the way children play with their clever range of Montessori-inspired toys. Designed by an Australian Teacher and Mum to nurture children’s natural creativity, curiosity, learning, and development through play. Founder of Totli, Lauren, says, ‘Totli was inspired by a love for learning and bringing children back to basics. We’re on a mission to help parents create enriching experiences for their children in an easy and meaningful way.' Totli’s range of playthings are ethically crafted from natural and organic materials. If you’re looking for sustainable toys that promote less toys, more joy, be sure to check out Totli for the perfect Christmas gift inspiration. CUSTOMER REVIEWS: 'Huge shoutout to Totli and the wonderful Lauren! My baby lost my small yellow piece of the cups and tubs set on the first day we got it. I contacted Lauren explaining the situation and look what showed up to my house with a mini leaf to keep it company. Couldn’t recommend this brand any higher. If anyone is after an open toy with a difference from a Australian mum who genuinely cares and stocks amazing quality you need to check them out.' BUY NOW $89 #5

BEAR TIMBERAUSTRALIAN MADE WOODEN TOYS The concept of Bear Timber came about during one of the most challenging times the world has encountered - Covid-19. As an early childhood teacher, I was eager to extend my knowledge and educational experiences to other families through providing sustainable and eco friendly resources that promoted and encouraged play-based and open learning. Our one of a kind wooden tool puzzle has been designed and created in Tasmania, Australia with the little building enthusiast in mind. The large, chunky pieces are easy for toddlers and young children to grasp and manipulate. With Christmas just around the corner, our educational resources make the perfect gift. WHY WE LOVE IT: The team at Bear Timber are helping to nurture children's education and development through Australian made, high quality wooden toys and educational resources. BUY NOW $74.50 #6

OUR TOP 16 NATURAL FAMILY ESSENTIALS

TESTED ON HUMANS GIFT IDEAS

With Christmas just around the corner, we've rounded up 16 of our most trusted natural gift ideas, for you and baby! We showcase our top brands in each edition of Nurture, so read on to read reviews and recommendations from other parents. 1.

Soléo OrganicsNATURAL SUNSCREENSoléo Organics is free of synthetic chemicals, UV absorbers, nano particles, titanium dioxide, SLS and petroleum by-products. Formulated according to naturopathic principles, using only natural ingredients, botanical extracts, natural moisturisers, antioxidants/vitamins.  WHAT OTHERS SAY: 'This is the only sunscreen we have found that our son can use without coming out in allergic reaction of head to toe hives. Our son is blonde hair, blue-eyes and burns easily. This sunscreen is fabulous and so pleased we were suggested it by a friend.' RECOMMENDED BY:  Llona Wilson RRP $27.95 80g  www.soleoorganics.com SHOP 2.

INVISI SHIELDNATURAL HAND SANITISER Invisi Shield SUPRCUVR Organics is an all-natural, alcohol and chemical free hand sanitiser that is proven to kill 99.9% of germs. It cleans, sanitises and is safe if accidentally swallowed.  WHAT OTHERS SAY: 'This is the best sanitiser on the market. Doesn't damage your hands like alcohol based sanitiser and it can be used for so many different applications like wiping down door knobs and bench tops. We have supplied all our staff to keep this in their work vans.' RECOMMENDED BY:  Al Stephan RRP $19.95 100ml  www.sknlife.com.au SHOP 3.

BAISIK100% VEGANWe design baby, and children’s products with a difference. Everything in our collection is 100% vegan, 100% cruelty-free, and 100% perfect for modern parenthood. Feel empowered with ethical choices that are good for your little one, good for the environment.  WHY WE LOVE IT: Featuring beautiful handcrafted vegan leather goods with faux fur touches, you’ll fall head over heels with their products when you experience the BAISIK difference. Own your motherhood journey. Feel empowered with ethical choices that are good for your little one; good for the environment.  RRP $69.95  www.baisik.com.au BUY NOW 4.

ChamonixRain OrganicsCOCONUT BABY WASH & SHAMPOO  The ChamonixRain Organics Coconut Baby Wash & Shampoo is a luxurious blend of natural & certified organic ingredients which has been uniquely formulated to gently cleanse and protect your baby’s skin and hair. WHAT THEY SAY: 'I admit I tend to only write reviews when things go wrong, but omg you’ve created one heavenly product and I wanted to tell you how much I love it. Not only do I love the smell that’s just the right amount of lingering when you get out of the shower, but my shower is like well hello tropical beach! It’s amazing. I also cannot thank you enough for the baby version. My son suffers from horrible eczema and I’ve tried just about every cream and potion and magic and prayers out there and the moisturiser with the shower wash quite literally healed his skin within a week. You go team!'RECOMMENDED BY: Alex Farmer $28.95 500ml www.chamonixrainorganics.com SHOP 5.

LOVEKINSMade with soft luxurious Australian Cotton absorbing up to 40 x it’s weight. Australia’s first company to pioneer Non-Adhesive Core Technology. Free From: Chlorine, Fragrance + Dyes. Natural + Organic + unique Australian products.  WHY WE LOVE IT: Certified Natural, Vegan, Toxic Free and Award Winning Skincare, Nappies & Wellbeing Products for the Whole Family.Lovekins vision is to improve the health and happiness of women, mothers and babies by empowering them with premium Australian products they can trust. RRP $6.00  www.lovekins.com SHOP 6.

FOR THE LOVE OF LEARNING AS SEEN IN ISSUE #23

OUR TOP 7 EDUCATIONAL GIFT IDEAS "Education begins the moment we see children as innately wise and capable beings. Only then can we play along in their world." Vince Gowmon Check out this issues top educational resources for some nurtured inspiration this Christmas.

#1

RAISING READERS BY MEGAN DALEYA gentle guide for parents and educators to help foster a love of reading in children from birth and beyond. Award-winning teacher librarian Megan Daley unpacks twenty years of experience in children’s literature in this personable and accessible guide, enhanced with up-to-date research and firsthand accounts from well-known Australian children’s authors. Megan says, 'creating a culture of reading in your home encourages self-awareness, kindness and empathy, reduces stress and opens up new worlds and ways of thinking.’ Easy to follow, practical, and bursting with great book recommendations, activity ideas and more, Raising Readers is essential reading.Some kids refuse to read, others won't stop - not even at the dinner table!When should you start reading to your child? How do you find that special book to inspire a reluctant reader? How can you tell if a book is age appropriate? What can you do to keep your tween reading into their adolescent years? Award-winning teacher librarian Megan Daley has the answers to all these questions and more. She unpacks her fifteen years of experience into this personable and accessible guide, enhanced with up-to-date research and first-hand accounts from well-known Australian children's authors. It also contains practical tips, such as suggested reading lists and instructions on how to run book-themed activities. Published by UQP, ‘Raising Readers’ is a must-have guide for parents and educators to help the children in their lives fall in love with books. To purchase the book, click the button or to learn more about Megan, visit Children's Books Daily. BUY NOW $21.90 #2

MY MILK WILL GO OUR LOVE WILL GROWBY JESSICA ELDER My Milk Will Go, Our Love Will Grow is a children’s book written to help mothers talk to young children about weaning from breastfeeding. Using simple words, rhyme, and relatable illustrations, this book helps children gain an understanding of the transition while addressing day and nighttime weaning. It acknowledges feelings while reassuring children that emotional needs will still be met, and that love and nurturing will always continue. It is a sweet keepsake to represent the beautiful breastfeeding relationship. This book was written by Jessica Elder, mother of four and clinical social worker. It can be purchased internationally, online, through Amazon. ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Jessica Elder, LMSW, LCSW is the author of My Milk Will Go, Our Love Will Grow, a book for weaning. Jessica is a mother of four who helps parents support children with transitions through communication, connection, and creative play. READER REVIEWS: 'Beautiful weaning book. Immensely poetic and guiding for mums in this tough transition. Much needed. I sobbed when I read the title out loud.' BUY NOW $19.99 #3

HAPPY GO DUCKYNATURAL HANDMADE TOYSAt Happy Go Ducky, our mission has and always will be to remain plastic-free! We love sourcing hard to find, natural handmade toys that are non-toxic and sustainable from boutique brands all over Europe. All of our packing materials are also recycled, recyclable and bio-degradable. We're a small family-owned business located in Sydney, Australia, and our passion is sourcing unique, traditional, and one of a kind children's toys that will be loved, cherished and passed on when the time comes. Visit our online store and find the perfect keepsake gift for this Christmas!  CUSTOMER REVIEWS: 'Thank you so much to the team at Happy Go Ducky for making my shopping experience an enjoyable one. I contacted the team enquiring about stock availability for a particular item, not only did they respond back to me within an hour they despatched my order on the next business day. I would highly recommend this business to anyone looking for great service and beautiful products.' BUY NOW FROM $26 #4

TOTLI AUSTRALIAMONTESSORI-INSPIRED TOYS Totli is changing the way children play with their clever range of Montessori-inspired toys. Designed by an Australian Teacher and Mum to nurture children’s natural creativity, curiosity, learning, and development through play. Founder of Totli, Lauren, says, ‘Totli was inspired by a love for learning and bringing children back to basics. We’re on a mission to help parents create enriching experiences for their children in an easy and meaningful way.' Totli’s range of playthings are ethically crafted from natural and organic materials. If you’re looking for sustainable toys that promote less toys, more joy, be sure to check out Totli for the perfect Christmas gift inspiration. CUSTOMER REVIEWS: 'Huge shoutout to Totli and the wonderful Lauren! My baby lost my small yellow piece of the cups and tubs set on the first day we got it. I contacted Lauren explaining the situation and look what showed up to my house with a mini leaf to keep it company. Couldn’t recommend this brand any higher. If anyone is after an open toy with a difference from a Australian mum who genuinely cares and stocks amazing quality you need to check them out.' BUY NOW $89 #5

BEAR TIMBERAUSTRALIAN MADE WOODEN TOYS The concept of Bear Timber came about during one of the most challenging times the world has encountered - Covid-19. As an early childhood teacher, I was eager to extend my knowledge and educational experiences to other families through providing sustainable and eco friendly resources that promoted and encouraged play-based and open learning. Our one of a kind wooden tool puzzle has been designed and created in Tasmania, Australia with the little building enthusiast in mind. The large, chunky pieces are easy for toddlers and young children to grasp and manipulate. With Christmas just around the corner, our educational resources make the perfect gift. WHY WE LOVE IT: The team at Bear Timber are helping to nurture children's education and development through Australian made, high quality wooden toys and educational resources. BUY NOW $74.50 #6

INTRODUCING YOUR NURTURE CHANGEMAKERS

CHAMONIXRAIN ORGANICS

From an early age, ChamonixRain Organics founder Michelle Williamson developed a lifelong obsession with healthy living and a strong appreciation of the benefits that come from using the ingredients that nature has provided us - to nurture our bodies both inside and out.  Michelle grew up in a family where her mother made her own natural skincare and cleaning products, and her grandparents grew their own organic fruits and vegetables, both on farms and in their backyard. It was always her dream to use her knowledge and love of these ingredients, to then develop her own vegan-friendly, plant-based Natural skincare brand.  Michelle’s dream then became a reality shortly after she became a parent herself. After searching for premium quality natural baby skincare products, both in the UK (where she had her first child) and then here in Australia (where she had her second child)— she found the market lacking in options.  As a result, Michelle developed her very own range of natural baby skincare products, free from soap, SLS, parabens, petrochemicals, formaldehyde and synthetic fragrances. Not only do they smell amazing, but they also leave the skin feeling beautifully soft and nourished.  A key ingredient in the range is Coconut Oil, which is her absolute go-to ingredient for beauty, cooking, skincare, haircare & even make-up removal. This magic oil is a rich source of Vitamins, Fatty Acids, and antioxidants which deeply moisturise, hydrate, and condition the skin. Today, the ChamonixRain Organics range includes vegan friendly products for the entire family - with some very exciting announcements and new products being released very soon!!  Watch this space and feel free to visit Michelle and the team at www.chamonixrainorganics.com. 

SUBSCRIBE TO NURTURE TO RECEIVE YOUR GIFT WORTH OVER $100 FROM CHAMONIXRAIN ORGANICS

BE ONE OF THE FIRST 30 SUBSCRIBERS TO WIN..

ANNUAL PRINT SUBSCRIBERS ONLY

CLICK TO SUBSCRIBEBE ONE OF THE FIRST 30 ANNUAL PRINT SUBSCRIBERSTo win a ChamonixRain Organics gift pack worth over $100CLICK TO SUBSCRIBECLICK TO SUBSCRIBESUBSCRIBE TO WINExperience tropical luxury with ChamonixRain Organics Natural Coconut skincare line!CLICK TO SUBSCRIBE Previous Next If YOU are one of the first 30 subscribers to Nurture in print, you will receive this amazing gift worth over $100 each.Experience tropical luxury with the ChamonixRain Organics Natural Coconut skincare line.Their luxurious range of Coconut Skincare and Konjac Sponges are enriched with nature’s finest natural & certified organic ingredients, to gently cleanse and nourish your little ones skin and hair.Complete your at-home day spa experience with their beautifully scented coconut-soy wax candle, which will leave you feeling completely relaxed in your very own tropical oasis.Receive this entire collection valued at $106.80. CHILDREN'S BOOKS DAILY

Megan Daley is an early childhood teacher turned teacher librarian with a passion for nurturing a love of language, words and story from birth. Her website Children’s Books Daily, is a one stop shop for all things reading related and she speaks across the country at early childhood conferences and early education centres to parents/caregivers and educators. A regular presenter on ABC radio, Megan spends much time talking about how free play and immersing children in language in all forms – stories and songs and nursery rhymes – as well as creating a culture of reading in your home, encourages self-awareness, kindness and empathy, reduces stress and opens up new worlds and ways of thinking. She firmly believes that a child’s love of books begins with loved adults taking the time to read with them and cuddling up and reading with a child allows them to form powerful associations between books and moments of happiness, love and closeness. For Megan, play and story and intrinsically linked. She says: “My favourite memories of my own childhood are of playing with my huge circle of family friends. Playing was just what we did – it was an organic part of our lives. Our parents never agonised over our choices of games or thought about creating ‘meaningful learning experiences’. Everyone seemed to accept that free play was a natural and essential part of childhood. But of course we were learning through our play, as we constructed cubby houses and imaginary worlds inspired or enhanced by the books we were read. I cannot stress enough how play and literacy development go hand-in-hand. It is well documented in early literacy development research that parents and educators need to value play as an important and valid part in literacy development as children engage with and respond to stories, create their own stories, and learn about themselves and their world. ”Megan’s book, ‘Raising Readers’ (2019, UQP) is a gentle guide for parents and educators to help foster a love of reading in children from birth and beyond. An award-winning teacher librarian, Megan unpacks twenty years of experience in children’s literature in this personable and accessible guide, enhanced with up-to-date research, lots of book recommendations for children from birth to the tween and teen years and firsthand accounts from well-known Australian children’s authors.  Photograph Credit: Ruby Olive. Visit Megan at www.childrensbooksdaily.com.

ENTER THE SHARING KINDNESS CONTEST TO WIN OVER OVER $1K WORTH OF PRIZES

OUR BIGGEST GIVEAWAY YET!

CLICK TO ENTERCLICK TO ENTERCLICK TO ENTERCLICK TO ENTERSHARING KINDNESS CONTESTHURRY... ENTRIES CLOSE 24TH OCTOBER 2021 CLICK TO ENTER Previous Next

WE NEED YOUR HELP....

TO CREATE THE NEXT GLOBAL SHARING KINDNESS CALENDAR!

ENTER THE SHARING KINDNESS CONTEST TO WIN OVER OVER $1K WORTH OF PRIZES

OUR BIGGEST GIVEAWAY YET!

CLICK TO ENTERCLICK TO ENTERCLICK TO ENTERCLICK TO ENTERSHARING KINDNESS CONTESTHURRY... ENTRIES CLOSE 24TH OCTOBER 2021 CLICK TO ENTER Previous Next BEETANICALS

As a family of third-generation beekeepers with two small children, the Stanley’s story is a serendipitous one. The Beetanicals journey began in 2015 when founders Tanya and Warren Stanley’s first son Cooper was born. As a bub, Cooper had very sensitive skin and suffered from a dry skin condition. A search for natural, toxin-free products to soothe, nourish and protect his skin proved unsuccessful, so these keen and dedicated parents decided to make their own. Being a long-time lover of bees, the Stanleys were well aware of the wonderful antibacterial and nurturing benefits of beeswax. A natural emollient and humectant, beeswax draws moisture to the skin, allows it to breathe and seals it in a protective barrier. The product they had had been searching for was right before their eyes! A subsequent family holiday caravanning through central Australia exposed Tanya and Warren to some of the amazing powers of Australian native super foods. And so, in conjunction with an experienced formulator and world expert in aromatherapy and essential oil safety, the first batch of Beetanicals balms were created. The Beetanicals skincare range is endorsed by Native Oils Australia as ‘Clean & Pure’, which guarantees global industry standards for quality, purity and cleanliness from paddock to jar. Since then, the Stanleys have built their business around kindness. Kindness for local farmers and indigenous communities; with the majority of Beetanicals ingredients grown in Australia. Kindness for our furry friends; all of their products are tested on family and friends (not animals) and their bees are never harmed in the harvesting process. And last but not least, kindness for our skin; through their commitment to provide natural, safe, effective and transparent products for fellow Australian families. To date Beetanicals has taken home 23 awards, reinforcing the genuine effectiveness of their natural products that continue to support more and more families across the country. Visit Tanya and the family at www.beetanicals.com.au.

ENTER THE SHARING KINDNESS CONTEST TO WIN OVER OVER $1K WORTH OF PRIZES

OUR BIGGEST GIVEAWAY YET!

CLICK TO ENTERCLICK TO ENTERCLICK TO ENTERCLICK TO ENTERSHARING KINDNESS CONTESTHURRY... ENTRIES CLOSE 24TH OCTOBER 2021 CLICK TO ENTER Previous Next

WE NEED YOUR HELP....

TO CREATE THE NEXT GLOBAL SHARING KINDNESS CALENDAR!

Welcome to Issue 23 of Nurture Parenting Magazine

COMPETITIONS & GIVEAWAYS Well, first, can I say ‘wow’! We’ve been absolutely blown away by your response to our relaunch issue. The feedback has been wonderful to hear, the entire team worked hard on bringing you a beautiful, value-filled read, and ensuring that our advertising partners (most of them small Australian-owned business themselves) were able to showcase their products and services with maximum effect. From the content to the layout, it seems we nailed our brief, although someone asked if we had left any topics to cover in future issues!  I am delighted to say that I think the calibre of articles in this issue is just as high as the previous issue. Issue 23 has the theme of ‘Sweet Nothings: nourishing our children.’ The dictionary definition of nourishing is this: providing the things that are needed for health, growth, etc. Of course the first thing that comes to mind when we think of nourishing is nutrition, and we’ve covered that thoroughly in this issue, with articles on how to support our sensitive eaters (page 10), how our DNA affects the foods we want to eat, plus the foods we should be eating (page 8), and an investigation into another side of dairy (page 42) plus tips on starting your own organic veggie garden to get all the yummy foods going at home (page 70). Of course, nourishing is more than just nutrition, other forms of nourishment come in how we engage with our children (page 38), nourishing by touch (page 16), bonding through scent (page 30), and the nourishment of a good night’s sleep (page 52). Be sure to enter this editions epic Sharing Kindness Contest (page 49), to win 3 amazing prizes from Danish by Design, Clever Cubby and Bunnie Caddie worth over $1,000 PLUS much more so read on....

SUBSCRIBE TO NURTURE TO RECEIVE YOUR GIFT WORTH OVER $100 FROM CHAMONIXRAIN ORGANICS

BE ONE OF THE FIRST 30 SUBSCRIBERS TO WIN..

ANNUAL PRINT SUBSCRIBERS ONLY

CLICK TO SUBSCRIBEBE ONE OF THE FIRST 30 ANNUAL PRINT SUBSCRIBERSTo win a ChamonixRain Organics gift pack worth over $100CLICK TO SUBSCRIBECLICK TO SUBSCRIBESUBSCRIBE TO WINExperience tropical luxury with ChamonixRain Organics Natural Coconut skincare line!CLICK TO SUBSCRIBE Previous Next If YOU are one of the first 30 subscribers to Nurture in print, you will receive this amazing gift worth over $100 each. Experience tropical luxury with the ChamonixRain Organics Natural Coconut skincare line. Their luxurious range of Coconut Skincare and Konjac Sponges are enriched with nature’s finest natural & certified organic ingredients, to gently cleanse and nourish your little ones skin and hair. Complete your at-home day spa experience with their beautifully scented coconut-soy wax candle, which will leave you feeling completely relaxed in your very own tropical oasis. Receive this entire collection valued at $106.80.

ENTER THE SHARING KINDNESS CONTEST TO WIN OVER OVER $1K WORTH OF PRIZES

OUR BIGGEST GIVEAWAY YET!

CLICK TO ENTERCLICK TO ENTERCLICK TO ENTERCLICK TO ENTERSHARING KINDNESS CONTESTHURRY... ENTRIES CLOSE 24TH OCTOBER 2021 CLICK TO ENTER Previous Next

WE NEED YOUR HELP....

TO CREATE THE NEXT GLOBAL SHARING KINDNESS CALENDAR!

To create the next Global Sharing Kindness Calendar! So... we've teamed up with some amazing brands for our biggest GIVEAWAY EVER!!!! All because by getting our kids involved in being the creators of the kindness they share, the more likely they are to embrace kindness as a daily habit, all year long! For your chance to be featured (and you would help us out so much!) + to WIN prizes valued over $1000 >>> click below You really don't want to miss this one... ENTER

MEET SHARING KINDNESS..

I'm Tess and these are my two kids - Sienna and Scarlett (we are a kind family from Sweden living in Australia)! Why do I feel so strongly about kindness, you might ask? Well 5 years ago, I became a mother of two girls and, wow, how everything changed! I totally lost myself to motherhood… and had so many thoughts running through my mind… ...how can I teach my kids to be confident when I don’t feel confident in myself? ...how do I teach them to be resilient and confident but still humble and compassionate? ...and how do I raise them to value themselves yet still be kind to others?" HAVE YOU EVER FELT THE SAME?? But after having my children and being so far away from my family my identity got somehow lost in motherhood. And suddenly, I had no idea who I was anymore... I WAS CRUMBLING INSIDE.... And people would often describe me as outgoing and confident. But what most of them couldn’t see was that, inside, I deeply struggled with self-worth. The honest truth is that I had never felt that being me was enough. I had spent my life trying to be ‘perfect’, helping others and being kind and compassionate with everyone but myself. Friends and family could tell me I was intelligent, funny or even beautiful, but I never really believed them. I would look around and find 10 girls that I thought were smarter or prettier than me. And if I wasn’t the best, I didn’t think I mattered at all. SHOP ADVENT CALENDARS & AFFIRMATION CARDS

FIRST PRIZE

A beautiful Childhome Grey Moses Basket package from Danish by Design. Includes: Mattress, Rocking Stand and Jersey Insert to provide a cosy, safe place for newborns to rest. + The Sharing Kindness Box of Confidence Affirmation Cards + The Sharing Kindness Advent Calendar TOTAL VALUE $550

SHOP BABY ESSENTIALS

MEET DANISH BY DESIGN...

We are a family run business based in Melbourne and we import and distribute a great range of stylish, modern nursery furniture, infant products and toys. Our aim is to offer Australian parents well designed products that not only look good but are super practical for both parent and child; products that have versatility and longevity and are great value. How did it all start? Like many new mums, Gillian considered starting up a small home business to combine work and motherhood. While we were back in Denmark for our daughter’s first Christmas, we fell in love with the amazing range of products there and decided that we would like to make them available to Australian parents too. Despite no knowledge of the retail industry or importing, Gillian started with the help of husband, Nigel and ordered the first shipment from Denmark in 2001. Fast forward and today Danish by Design is the proud distributor of many brands and has some serious celebrity clientele, including Nicole Kidman, Rebecca Judd, Mel B and Megan Gale! Our team thrives on the challenge of trying to find more unique products to add to our range, preferably from Scandinavia. Each product we take on board has to match our design, function and quality standards. Parents appreciate good design and high quality and we know that our cots and other products are excellent choices. We also strive to be the best we can be regarding customer service and trust that your dealings with us will be a pleasure.

SECOND PRIZE

An innovative new Clever Cubby designed by a mum of 2 here in Australia. It’s more than just a cubby with over 27 storage spaces. It’s the perfect size for any playroom or kids bedroom.  VALUE $460

BUY NOW

MEET CLEVER CUBBY...

This is an organisers dream, with over 30 storage spaces the Clever Cubby is the ultimate toy organiser. Giving your children a clear view of all their toys with the bonus of a cubby place space that they will enjoy for hours.

THIRD PRIZE

A stylish yet functional Bunnie Caddie to keep everything you need at arms reach. Luxury blankets and soft toys create the perfect gift from Bunnie Caddie. VALUE $135

SHOP YOUR PERFECT BUNNIE CADDIE

MEET BUNNIE CADDIE

Sleek, stylish and functional, Bunnie Caddie is reinventing organisational baby products for the modern family. Bunnie Caddie’s range of luxury baby products are designed to complement your home's interior decor aesthetic while still being suitable for the outdoors.  Bunnie Caddie’s philosophy centres around creating more time for you to enjoy with your beautiful bunnies by way of considerate products that are not only appealing to the eye, but also portable for modern parents 'on the go' lifestyle.  Bunnie Caddie promotes a sense of clarity and calm within the home, allowing you to enjoy those precious moments with your family even more and have everything you need at arms reach.  ENTER NOW TO WIN

SHARE A PICTURE OF YOU WITH YOUR COPY OF NURTURE TO WIN 1 OF 5 BOOKS FROM MURDOCH BOOKS WORTH $39.99 EACH

TAG US ON INSTAGRAM WITH YOUR COPY OF NURTURE TO WIN!

A DISCERNING CARER WILL FIND THAT NOT ALL KIDS BEDDING IS EQUAL!

FORTUNATELY, THERE IS NOW A CHOICE... Knowing how much time your family will spend in bed makes the bedding you choose an important decision. For carers on the lookout for the very best for their precious little ones, Wriggly Toes can guarantee, the search ends with Wriggly-ology 101.  A discerning carer will find that not all bedding is equal. In fact, children’s bedding isn’t required by law to be completely free of chemicals that are known to be harmful. There are 24 chemicals that have allowable levels in the production of children’s bedding according the current Australian product safety guide. This standard was not high enough for Wriggly Toes. A discerning carer may also find that normal production standards are not up to their own either. Fortunately there is now a choice and the standards don’t get much higher.  The founders of Wriggly Toes concluded that the only way to ensure the quality they wanted for their own children was to raise the bar themselves. They have done the research, and received the certification that everyone, at every stage of the manufacturing process, can feel safe and happy enough to fall asleep on.  Containing nothing that could irritate delicate skin, even with prolonged contact, Wriggly Toes bedding is non-toxic, sustainable, and ethically made. Each finished product contains no harmful dyes or chemicals - safe for every child. Every element has been created with careful consideration of water consumption and energy output for minimal environmental impact, and every aspect of farming and production relies on ethical labour, which is safe and freely chosen.  All of this began with Wriggly–ology.101: Keeping families SAFE & HAPPY:  SAFE - bedding that is certified to keep your kids cosy and comfortable, with no health risks. Created to keep the planet safe as well, Wriggly Toes bedding is socially & environmentally-conscious. Wriggly Toes is armed with the right information - so you can be as well. Safe kids’ bedding, helping the whole family sleep better.  HAPPY - a result of Wriggly Toes gorgeous designs, accompanied by an imaginative bedtime poem. Each design features a unique and adorable character with its own bedtime poem, creating bedding so lovable they will want to take it everywhere.  Wriggly Toes bedding is certifiably safe because it is manufactured to the Oeko-Tex Standard 100. This is a worldwide independent certification that guarantees its quality through traceable, scientifically tested methods. What’s more, Oeko-Tex certification is based on the intended use of a product. Product Class II is the second-highest level of strict human ecological requirements which must be met. This includes bed linen because a large part of its surface is in direct contact with skin.  The comprehensive and strict catalogue of measures required to achieve this certification, in many cases, go far beyond National and International standards. This covers every aspect of the textile creation and each individual textile used to create the product including everything from Wriggly Toes’ beautiful string piping, to the organic cotton thread holding it all together, as well as the vibrant colours used to bring the characters to life. No harmful dyes or chemicals can be used at any stage of production, and the Oeko-Tex standard 100 certification scientifically ensures this. Wriggly Toes bedding also upholds The Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS). This integrates the entire textile process from fibre to finished product, and guarantees the use of only consumer and environmentally friendly chemicals. Every fibre must be grown and harvested without fertilisers or pesticides.  GOTS also requires a social and environmental sustainability criterion is fulfilled at every stage of production, as well as consumption of water and energy reduction systems. The manufacturing process must be sustainable and socially responsible - with ethical labour used every step of the way. To meet GOTS requirements, Wriggly Toes bedding has recognition, to a worldwide standard, affirming that only organic textiles are used. Based on the latest evidence available, RaisingChildren.net.au, an organisation supported by the Australian Government Department of Social Services and backed by Australia experts, recommends that children from the ages of two to ten normally spend 10- 13 hours a day sleeping. Knowing your child can spend more than 50% of their life in bed, the GOTS and OEKO-Tex Standard 100 certification are assurances that Wriggly Toes bedding has thought this through.  None of the harmful residues left over from the common processing of cotton means Wriggly Toes bedlinen has taken the time, you and your family will spend wrapped in their sheets, very seriously. To ensure the best rest possible for children’s growing bodies and brains, resulting in happy children, sleep specialists recommend a bedtime routine. A routine encourages good sleep patterns and should include a bed-time story, time to relax, unwind, and feel ready to go to sleep. Wriggly-ology 101 takes this into consideration as well.  Wriggly Toes have designed four unique characters to decorate their bedding. Each character comes with a rhyming story to kickstart the sweetest dreams. Purdy the Penguin, or Debbie the Dog, is always ready and waiting at bedtime for dreamy adventures. Jeanette the Cat has a hot air balloon. Ron the Racoon has learned to fly.  Not only will children be happy to go to sleep dreaming about these characters, they will wake happy and refreshed because they’ve had a great night’s sleep filled with happy dreams. Wriggly-ology 101 includes caring about all children. By donating a portion of each sale to The Australian Childhood Foundation, Wriggly Toes are doing their part towards helping kids who don’t have safety and happiness in their own homes. The foundation’s vision ‘to defend the right of all children to a safe and loved childhood’, aligns with the Wriggly-ology 101 philosophy to keep all children safe and happy. A perfect match. Since 1986, this charity has focused on having a direct impact on restoring a childhood full of hope, dreams, imagination and love by: helping children heal, keeping children safe, standing up for them, and creating understanding.  The Australian Childhood Foundation’s mission is to bring love back to children affected by trauma and Wriggly Toes proudly supports their work. At the end of the day, cuddling up in Wriggly Toes bedding doesn’t just mean you and your family are safe, wrapped in a globally recognised standard of textile processing and the softness of 300 TC sateen weave organic cotton. You are also proving that you care about the safety of the planet by choosing sustainably crafted textiles, generated in environmental, socially responsible, and energy efficient environments.  You are supporting a company that proves, by applying the highest of standards to its own agenda, that it cares about others. You are also happy in this knowledge, snuggled up in the story of your child’s favourite Wriggly Toes character. Wriggly Toes was created because nothing like it existed. It took them three years to find the right people for the job so that going to bed at night would become the best part of the day for every family: safe, and happy!

AS SEEN IN NURTURE ISSUES #22 & #23  SHOP

SUBSCRIBE TO NURTURE TO RECEIVE YOUR GIFT WORTH OVER $100 FROM CHAMONIXRAIN ORGANICS

BE ONE OF THE FIRST 30 SUBSCRIBERS TO WIN..

ANNUAL PRINT SUBSCRIBERS ONLY

CLICK TO SUBSCRIBEBE ONE OF THE FIRST 30 ANNUAL PRINT SUBSCRIBERSTo win a ChamonixRain Organics gift pack worth over $100CLICK TO SUBSCRIBECLICK TO SUBSCRIBESUBSCRIBE TO WINExperience tropical luxury with ChamonixRain Organics Natural Coconut skincare line!CLICK TO SUBSCRIBE Previous Next If YOU are one of the first 30 subscribers to Nurture in print, you will receive this amazing gift worth over $100 each.Experience tropical luxury with the ChamonixRain Organics Natural Coconut skincare line.Their luxurious range of Coconut Skincare and Konjac Sponges are enriched with nature’s finest natural & certified organic ingredients, to gently cleanse and nourish your little ones skin and hair.Complete your at-home day spa experience with their beautifully scented coconut-soy wax candle, which will leave you feeling completely relaxed in your very own tropical oasis.Receive this entire collection valued at $106.80.

ENTER THE SHARING KINDNESS CONTEST TO WIN OVER OVER $1K WORTH OF PRIZES

OUR BIGGEST GIVEAWAY YET!

CLICK TO ENTERCLICK TO ENTERCLICK TO ENTERCLICK TO ENTERSHARING KINDNESS CONTESTHURRY... ENTRIES CLOSE 24TH OCTOBER 2021 CLICK TO ENTER Previous Next

WE NEED YOUR HELP....

TO CREATE THE NEXT GLOBAL SHARING KINDNESS CALENDAR!

To create the next Global Sharing Kindness Calendar! So... we've teamed up with some amazing brands for our biggest GIVEAWAY EVER!!!! All because by getting our kids involved in being the creators of the kindness they share, the more likely they are to embrace kindness as a daily habit, all year long! For your chance to be featured (and you would help us out so much!) + to WIN prizes valued over $1000 >>> click below You really don't want to miss this one... ENTER

ASK NAOMI A QUESTION TO BE PUBLISHED TO WIN...

EMAIL US YOUR PARENTING QUESTION TO WIN A $100 VOUCHER TO SPEND IN NAOMI ALDORT'S MP3 LIBRARY

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