Christmas can be an amazing time shared with family and friends, and yet many of us enter the New Year feeling drained from the holiday period.

Often when a co-worker, friend or family member returns from a vacation or travel, we hear the joke ‘I need a holiday after my holiday’ thrown around. When we are on holiday, the temptation to make the most of every day and minute can be so prevalent that we forget to simply stop and breathe.

The Christmas holidays look different for everyone. Perhaps it involves interstate travel, overdue catchups with extended family, work Christmas parties, friend parties and Christmas shopping and cooking.

And while all or at least some of this is fun, it is also not our usual routine. Several days or weeks like this in a row can overextend our social battery and sometimes it is too late before we realise, we are not just emotionally drained – but physically as well.

Learning to practice self-care and establish a sense of boundaries with yourself and others during this time can save you from post-Christmas burnout and make the holidays an even better time.

Here are some tips for keeping yourself sane, healthy and happy during the holidays.

Establish boundaries with friends and family about money

Giving gifts should be something joyful and leave you with a good feeling. The ritual of picking or making gifts and wrapping up each one with a glass of Prosecco is half the fun. However, financial stress can suck the joy out of this if you feel like you are spending money you don’t have to not disappoint others.

Consider your finances and what you are capable of spending and what you are comfortable with. Then, try expressing this to your friends or family. It can be as simple as saying that you are a bit tight this year so you will just be doing small gifts. Or if you really want to, you can set a specific price to cap gifts at for everyone.

2) Don’t commit to things you don’t want to do

Over-commitment is another huge issue that will drain the joy out of the holiday period for some. As much as the parties, shopping and events can be fun, don’t lose sight of the small moments. Remember to make time for yourself curled up watching Christmas movies at home, cooking, or simply sticking to your regular routine.

It is perfectly ok to say no to things and still make time for yourself. The fear of missing out can be huge and the pressure to show up at events we don’t care for. Either way, remind yourself that saying no is ok.

3) Delegate Tasks Evenly

For some of us, the desire to create an unforgettable Christmas experience for the people we love, and particularly our children, can cause us to bite off more than we can chew. Before you know it, suddenly you are the shopper, the chef, the party planner, the event organiser, and the cleaner.

This can make Christmas feel less like a party and more like hard work.

4) Simplify the Lunch Menu

The same philosophy goes to the Christmas menu – don’t bite off more than you can chew and don’t be afraid to delegate. It should never be one person’s job to spend hours toiling in the kitchen for everyone.

Eating, drinking and cooking with the people we care about should be a wonderful experience. However, feeling stressed and overworked can drain the enjoyment out of this tradition.

It is also important to know that sometimes less is more. Don’t get caught up in the notion that a good Christmas meal has to be a complex or ornate one. Instead, pick a few of your favourite simple dishes that everyone will enjoy and you can be sure it will not diminish the experience.

Christmas is a time to enjoy and celebrate and the end of the season should leave you feeling content – not exhausted. Make small changes during your Christmas routine this year and in years to come to make sure you are truly enjoying – rather than simply making sure everyone around you is enjoying it.

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LIFESTYLE

Coping with Seasonal Depression

By Kaylee Cranley December 21, 2021

Throughout the Christmas and New Year period, we are inundated with holiday romance movies, overwhelming social calendars and expectations to look and feel, “Merry and bright”. But for those who are struggling with their mental health, affected by the wrath of seasonal depression, it can feel like anything, but, “The most wonderful time of the year”.

Traditionally, a time for eating, drinking and being merry, the festive season can come with a foreboding presupposition for those struggling with a mental health concern or personal crisis.

When everyone around seems to be in the festive spirit, seasonal depression can make the holidays particularly overwhelming, feeling like a period that needs to be survived rather than thrived.

The holidays have long been associated with seasonal depression, reporting a 40% increase of suicide in the days following Christmas. In accordance with a survey from YouGov, a quarter of people say that Christmas makes their mental health worse, with an additional survey from the Mental Health Foundation, sharing that 54% of people are worried about the mental health of someone they know at Christmas.

Whether coping with mental illness, COVID separation, grief or holiday burnout, when seasonal depression creeps in, it’s consequential to recognise and prioritise combatting the symptoms this holiday period.

Some signs and symptoms of seasonal depression include:

Tiredness or low energy
Loss of interest in activities you used to enjoy
Changes in appetite or sleeping patterns
Feelings of immense lows and depressive feeling throughout majority of the day

Estranged relationships, disappointment of the year that has passed, as well as a range of other personal battles, are just some reasons seasonal depression may present itself. This holiday season, prioritising your health is the key to combatting any form of personal exertion.

Let go of preconceived ideas of what you are “expected” to do, instead alter and simplify the season to best suit your circumstance, regardless of what that may be.

COVID Christmas

The uncertainty of COVID-19 has protruded ripple effects, seeping into the festive period, with many Australians spending their second year in a row apart from their loved ones. With travel and border restrictions still in place, not to mention the trepidation of COVID crisis entirely, it would be ignorant to view this holiday period without the present ramifications for the majority of Australians still suffering from the pandemic.

COVID has interrupted and ultimately reshaped this year’s festive period, leaving many feeling unstable in their habitual safety nets of workplace, financial, family or living situations. The first Christmas apart from family, can feel somewhat un-conventional in comparison to the years that have passed. Although it may not feel entirely the same, managing your expectations and mindset, as well as applying a little outside of the box thinking, will go a long way this holiday period.

No two families are the same, and that goes for no two celebrations. If you are separated from loved ones due to restrictions, stay in touch via phone and video call, as well as inventing outside of the box ways to stay connected and show gratitude for the ones you love, even if that is from a far.

Grieving throughout the holiday season

Grieving throughout the holidays will never be easy, as many become unwontedly aware of the absence of a loved one. As the holidays are a time to come together, it can be bittersweet for those who are grieving, often feeling the missing piece of a loved one and burden of loss far greater over the December to January period.

The expectations of a “perfect” season, that come in the form of favourite Christmas movies and sitcoms, celebrations and traditions can bring about reminders for those grieving wherever they turn. When you have lost someone you love, it is normal to have feelings of painful isolation, as well as incompleteness, grief does not disappear overnight in account of it being the holidays.

Healing is not an overnight process and taking the festive period at your own pace and dynamic is essential.If you are grieving this festive season, recognise the feelings as they pass, and importantly stay present with all that you love. It’s essential to express your emotions as a healthy mechanism and substantial influence in the healing process, this includes talking and crying it out, with those you trust or an experienced psychologist.

Expression, as well as placing emphasis on feeling grateful for anything positive present in your life, will offer alleviation from the heavy emotions associated with grief and tragedy.

Another strategy when processing grief, is to focus and become aware of the time you do spend with other family members and ones you love. Utilise, as well as cherish those valuable moments, as grieving can help to reminded us how precious our time is.

Reminded of the fragility of life as whole, being present, as well as see beauty in the small and rare moments spent with the ones we love can be utilised in time spent with family and friends throughout the holiday season.

Money and Financial Pressure during the Holidays

The festive season can come at the cost of your wallet and bank account. From presents, celebrations and a little too much cause for celebration, the December to January period can often feel like a year’s worth of spending. This financial whirlwind, however, can be combatted with a little strategic plan and preparation.

Identify what is causing your financial stresses, and begin to take necessary action to alleviate as much worry as possible this Christmas. Communicating your financial worries to family and friends, is also important throughout the holidays. Not to be mistaken for complaining, suggesting alternatives for gifting such as secret Santa as well as free alternatives when spending time celebrating, will go a long way when budgeting this holidays.

Head to Christmas on a Budget if you’d like more tips and suggestions for financial planning throughout the festive period.

Mental Health throughout the Holidays

Depression is the leading mental health condition treated by general practitioners in Australia. With Beyond Blue reporting a staggering 3 million Australians are living with anxiety or depression. With stress and depression said to arise in approximately 1 in 5 Australians as a direct result of the festive season, it is evident mental health is fragile, and needs to be protected even at the best of times. Seasonal depression or holiday depression can occur due to the added pressure, expectation, and stress of the festive period. Typically characterised by low mood, self-criticism and low self esteem.

Feeling low around Christmas is especially common among people who are unemployed (38%), divorced (35%) or widowed (31%). Anxiety and loneliness are most prevalent among people who are aged from 25 to 34, at between 31% and 40%. People who are out of work also struggle more than other groups: 47% say they’ve felt stressed, 42% depressed and 39% anxious.

Visit https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/symptom-checker/tool/basic-details on advice for when to seek professional help when these feelings arise.

Managing and aiding seasonal depression

Seasonal Depression may leave sufferers wanting to retreat and isolate themselves throughout the whole of the holiday period. However, withdrawing from social activities and situations will often only lead to feelings of disconnection, loneliness and worsening of symptoms of depression.

Connection and belonging are the most important ways to regulate your mental health. Combatting seasonal depression includes reaching out to close friends and loved ones, volunteering, or even simply being kind to strangers. These small strategies are proven to strengthen positive mood and reprogram feeling grateful this holiday period.

Be aware of personal strategies to combat the season such as staying healthy through eating well, exercise and relaxing when possible. Although it is the season for over-indulging, many find that binge eating or drinking take a toll on their mental and physical health. Moderation is key for surviving the holiday period, when normal routines are interrupted.

Although labelled “the most wonderful time of the year”, the festive season, like any other period is improbable to be problem-free. Coping with any form of seasonal depression is best to be approached with realistic expectations. Whatever you or your loved ones are facing or struggling with over the holidays, remember that it is just one season of your story. You can plan and re-coup for the new year, re-writing your narrative, beginning with a new chapter called 2022.

If you or someone
you know is in crisis and needs help now, call triple zero (000)

Lifeline: Provides 24-hour crisis counselling, support groups and suicide prevention services. Call 13 11 14, text on 0477 13 11 14 (12pm to midnight AEST) or chat online.

Beyond Blue: Aims to increase awareness of depression and anxiety and reduce stigma. Call 1300 22 4636, 24 hours/7 days a week, chat online or email.

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LIFESTYLE

Fun ways Christmas is celebrated around the world

By Kelsey Kropf December 21, 2021

Christmas is the most celebrated holiday of the year, but every country does it differently. Here’s a quick insight into the weird and wonderful Christmas traditions from around the globe.

According to the encyclopaedia Britannica, December 25^th (‘mass on Christ’s day) was first recognised as the birth of Jesus in the year 221, but only began to be celebrated widely in the 9^th century. Now it is one of the most popular holidays with over 2 billion people considering it to be the most important holiday of the year.

A typical Australian Christmas is hot, with BBQ’s and Carols by Candlelight a staple. Most Australians and Americans open gifts on Christmas day, whereas most places in Europe share presents on Christmas Eve. Here’s a look into other countries around the world and the quirky ways they celebrate Christmas.

Japan – Fried chicken

Japan is less than one percent Christian, but one tradition that has stuck is eating KFC or other fried chicken on Christmas, with more than 4 million people tucking into the finger lickin’ food on this day each year. This unusual tradition began after a successful marketing campaign by KFC in 1974 called Kurisumasi ni wa kentakkii! (Kentucky for Christmas!).

Ukraine – Spiderwebs on Christmas trees

In Ukraine, families decorate their Christmas tree with spiderwebs as a sign of good luck. It is based on old folklore about a family who couldn’t afford ornaments and decorations for their tree, and spiderwebs became a symbol of good fortune on Christmas. It is also tradition to have 12 course feasts, one for every apostle!

Slovakia – Carp catching

In one of the most interesting Christmas traditions, Slovakians catch carp and keep them in a bathtub of freshwater swimming until Christmas Eve and eaten for their dinner feast. The significance of the Carp is in its scales. They are said to bring good luck and fortune into the new year.

Iceland – 13 Yule Lads

Instead of Santa, Icelandic children are visited by the 13 Yule Lads in the 13 nights leading up to Christmas. Children leave their shoes by a window and the Yule trolls leave gifts and sweets for nice boys and girls and rotten potatoes for the misbehaved!

Sweden – Saint Lucia and the giant goat

In Sweden the Christmas celebrations begin on December 13, marked by Saint Lucia’s Day and a festival to celebrate light. In the night parade, one girl is selected as ‘Lucia’, the Christian saint, and leads a procession of people wearing white robes and carrying candles above their head along with star-headed wands.

In the Swedish city of Gävle, a 13-metre-high straw goat is put up in the city centre to mark the start of Advent. The first Yule Goat was erected in 1966 and burnt down on New Year’s Eve. The tradition has lasted but is a big target for vandals, the most recent goat to be incinerated was the 2016 mascot.

Norway – Hiding brooms

The legend in Norway is that witches will arrive on Christmas Eve. Norwegians hide their brooms in the safest room in their house on this night in the hopes of fending off evil and dark spirits the witches might bring.

Venezuela – Rollerblading Santas

In Caracas, the capital city of Venezuela, the streets are closed on Christmas morning so that citizens can roller skate to church services. They are guided along by fireworks and skaters dressed up as Santas and other Christmas related costumes!

Spain – Caga Tió

In the Spanish region of Catalonia, the Caga Tió (Pooping log) or Tió de Nadal (Christmas Log) arrives in early December to mark the Christmas season. This large log is decorated with Christmas hats and facial features and as far as the name goes, it ‘poops’ out presents when children hit it with a stick, singing the traditional Caga Tió song!

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KIDS

Last minute gift ideas Christmas 2021

By Melissa Juratowitch December 21, 2021

An age group breakdown of the best gift ideas for the much-loved little ones in your life.

0-1 years:

Welcome, Child! by Sally Morgan ($12.99)

A beautiful board book by acclaimed Australian author, Sally Morgan. A celebration of the love felt for a newborn child.

Knitted Rainbow Blanket ($79.00)

100% organic knitted cotton, this stylish rainbow blanket makes a gorgeous gift for new bubs.

Personalised First Christmas Book ($49.99)

A personalised picture book that counts down to Christmas day. Choose your cover colour, write an inscription, select their illustrated character.

Peter Alexander Baby Poly Set ($49.99)

An adorable luxe silky feel satin set for the festive season in either red or green.

Anita the Bananita Teething Toy ($29.99)

Designed with an ergonomic shape to hold and chew easily, this cute teether toy has a range of textures for little ones to soothe teething gums.

Sophie the Sheep Rattle ($20.00)

Soft baby rattle that unlike squeak toys does not require any strength to make a sound.

The Gro-To Set ($83.00)

Baby-friendly bath gel, body lotion, and magical body oil in an adorable travel bag.

2-4 years

Reusable Colour in Place Mat ($29.95)

Layout the silicone mat, colour it in and then wipe it down for the next use!

Sand Play Set ($39.99)

Build sandcastles, or dig for buried treasure – this set comes with a shovel, bucket, rake and a sandcastle mould.

Dinosaur String Lights ($29.99)

Light up a dinosaur-lovers room!

Bath Crayons ($21.99)

Add creativity and fun to bath time. Made with 100% natural food-grade ingredients and non-toxic colourants for easy cleaning.

Wooden Bistro Tea-set ($40.00)

A 21-piece tea set with teapot, trays, cups, tea bags, and spoons.

Bluey: Christmas Swim ($16.99)

A perfect Christmas gift. Join Bluey, his family and his new toy on a gorgeous day around the pool.

Dino Swim Vest 2-3 years ($64.99)

A great gift idea for little ones as they enjoy summer in the sun!

The Very Hungry Caterpillar Double-Sided Puzzle ($29.99)

A beautiful puzzle that helps teach children colours and shapes over its 2-sides. One side features a beautiful rainbow, and the other introduces eight different shapes.

5-8 years

Inflatable Shark Sprinkler ($39.99)

Simply connect your garden hose to the adaptor and set the kids up for an afternoon of fun under the sprinkler. Additionally, the sprinkler can float in the pool as a water fountain.

3D Lunar LED Nightlight ($39.99)

An accurate model of the moon nightlight with stand. Perfect for the space obsessed.

Sweet Christmas Bath Set ($15.50)

A cute gift including a butter bear bath bomb & mini snow fairy bubble bar.

Popem Poppit Poppies ($7.65 each)

Available in a dinosaur or unicorn design, these fidget toys are sure to be a hit.

Backyard Tennis Set ($12.00)

Can’t beat a classic. A sure-fire hit for Christmas day with kids and adults alike.

Unicorn Jewellery Set ($34.95)

This cute set includes: bracelet, necklace, ring, clip-on earrings, hair barrette and carry purse.

Somebody’s Land by Adam Goodes & Ellie Laing ($18.50)

A stunning new accessible picture book, Adam Goodes & Ellie Laing’s ‘Somebody’s Land’ is full of life, inviting children and their families to imagine themselves into Australia’s past.

9-12 years

Nature’s Treasures by Ben Hoare ($25.00)

A perfect gift for the curious child in your life who loves to identify things and wants to know more about the wonderful natural world.

Inflatable Volleyball Set ($59.99)

A sure hit for the bigger kids. Can be used at the beach, in the pool or on land!

The Brainiac Board Game ($39.99)

A fun and stimulating board game featuring categories such as art, science, reading, math and the world! With graded questions, so siblings can play fairly against each other.

Smashball Set ($49.99)

A fun new game that is easy to play and easy to set up. The smash ball set includes net, 3 balls, drawstring back and instructions.

Cards Against Humanity: Family Edition ($44.00)

A fill-in-the-blank party game for kids and adults to play together!

Smarties Cooking Baking Kit ($19.99)

Includes skillet, smarties and vanilla cookie mix.

Kids Fluffy Slippers ($29.00)

Soft and fluffy faux fur slides, available in six different colours.

Rainbow Macrame Kit ($29.99)

A beautiful DIY project that makes a great wall feature.

Rainbow Novelty Desk Light ($29.99)

USB or battery operated.

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LIFESTYLE

Four ways to make your Christmas more sustainable

By Kelsey Kropf December 21, 2021

Whist Christmas is a time of joy it is also a time of excess. Wasteful habits can be minimised by being mindful of more sustainable practices to follow in this season.

Christmas is one of the most exciting times of the year, but unfortunately significantly contributes to overproduction and unnecessary waste. Australians receive over 20 million unwanted gifts at Christmas and more than 250,000 tonnes of food is wasted each year. Here are some ways to practice sustainability and be more environmentally conscious over this festive season.

Source sustainable wrapping paper and use e-cards

Australians use more than 150,000km of wrapping paper over Christmas. This is the equivalent of about 50,000 trees and enough to wrap around the equator four times. Most wrapping paper is recyclable but sticky tape, ribbons, bows and most glitters are not. To determine if your wrapping paper is recyclable, scrunch it. If it un-scrunches easily, it likely has elements in it that are not recyclable.

There are many alternatives that could be used, such as brown, eco-friendly recyclable paper and twine, newspaper or fabric wrapping paper. Cloths, sheets, scarfs and bandanas are all reusable and sustainable options to wrapping paper. Furoshiki is a Japanese method of using cloth to transport gifts, a great zero waste option that adds a unique twist to your gift.

Around one billion Christmas cards end up in the bin each year. Consider giving your loved ones a call or emailing them an online card you’ve created. Reuse old cards or cut out tags with brown paper and twine as a better alternative to a card that will only be read once!

Go meat free or choose local products

The holidays are a time of sharing gifts and food with your loved ones but are also a season of waste. Around 9 out of 10 Australians discard over 25% of their food during this period. To reduce your waste, only buy what you need, use the food you have and be organised to plan out your meals. Approximately five million Christmas puddings are thrown away each year. Think about what food guests will actually enjoy rather than the traditional options that don’t get touched. Use reusable cutlery and napkins at events for nice decorations and better options for landfill.

Consider going meat free just for the holidays! However, if you like this season for this reason investigate where your produce is coming from. Buying seasonal produce and Australian farmed and sourced protein such as muscles and prawns are a more sustainable choice. Doing so reduces your food miles, the costs associated with transportation and refrigeration of goods.

Choose quality gifts over quantity

The average Australian spends $475 on gifts with less than half being appreciated. To ensure your gifts will be kept, look for unique presents and choose one or two quality gifts over four or five that may not be loved. By choosing something from a local market or a smaller retailer rather than sites like Amazon, you are more likely to find something one of a kind, of better quality and have the chance to boost a sustainable local economy. Alternatively, you could gift an experience rather than material things, or presents that aren’t easily disposable and care for the earth – like a Poinsettia, a Christmas plant!

Source real trees and LED Christmas lights

If you are buying an artificial tree, ensure it is one that lasts. The environmental impact of these trees is 10 times greater than real trees as they are often not recyclable, ending up in landfill. Real trees are biodegradable or able to be replanted and are a great alternative if you will not keep your artificial tree for more than 10 years. If you are not a fan of bugs and twigs that come with real trees, consider putting some lights and baubles onto a plant, and repurposing your Devil’s Ivy or Fiddle Leaf Figs!

LED lights use about 80-90% less energy than incandescent lights you might usually find in your home. They are a safer, durable and longer-lasting option that don’t get hot to touch and will still give your tree and house the Christmas sparkle it needs. Set a timer to turn the LED lights off when they aren’t needed.

christmas tree flowchart — Source: House Beautiful

Along with being more sustainable this Christmas, consider the true meaning of the holiday season and ensure you spend time with your loved ones to be grateful for what you have.

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FOOD & NUTRITION

Fun and easy recipes for the kids this Christmas

By Melissa Evans December 20, 2021

With Christmas just around the corner, you may be looking for a solution to holiday boredom, and getting the kids in the kitchen for some festive cooking is a great way to entertain them.

Here are our top picks for some simple and fun recipes the kids will enjoy making – and you’ll get to enjoy test-tasting some of their creations in the process.

Gingerbread men

These biscuits are popular for good reason – they have a unique and festive taste and they’re also surprisingly easy to make. The kids will love the decorating process and it makes for great entertainment that they can enjoy from the kitchen table.

Ingredients:

115 grams butter
½ cup golden syrup
½ cup brown sugar
1 egg yolk
2 cups plain flour
1 tsp. bicarb soda
2 cups plain flour
2 tsp. ground ginger
1 tsp. cinnamon
1/3 cup icing sugar

Method:

Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius and line a baking tray with baking paper.
Coat paper with cooking oil. Beat the butter and sugar together until pale in colour.
Then add in the egg yolk, followed by the syrup.
Separately, mix the dry ingredients together: the flour, bicarb soda, cinnamon and ginger.
Combine the two mixtures together, then wrap the dough in plastic or parchment paper and leave it in the fridge for an hour.
After this, roll out the dough and use cookie cutters to cut out gingerbread man-shaped pieces. Position these onto your lined baking tray and bake for 10-15 minutes.
For icing: Mix icing sugar with a tablespoon of hot water, then put into a piping bag. Decorate gingerbread men with your desired design.

White chocolate snowflakes

This is a very simple recipe, requiring only one ingredient, but the results are impressive and sure to thrill children of all ages – and the adults too. They also go well as a decoration for the shortbread biscuits.

Ingredients

White chocolate

Method

Set out a tray lined with baking paper.
Melt chocolate in a heat-proof bowl over a pot of boiling water.
Once the chocolate has melted, put it into a piping bag.
To make the snowflake shape either use cookie cutters, baking paper with the pattern cut out, or style your snowflakes freehand.

Peppermint hot chocolate

This comforting beverage puts a festive spin on the traditional version, and can be decorated with any number of toppings, from sprinkles to chocolate sauce

Ingredients

2 tbsp. milk chocolate melts
1 cup milk
2 drops peppermint oil
Whipped cream for decoration

Method

Put the milk into a saucepan on a low heat.
Stir the chocolate melts in.
Turn the heat off them add the peppermint oil.
Pour it into a mug and top with whipped cream.

Christmas shortbread biscuits

christmas biscuit — Pictured: Christmas shortbread biscuits

These classic biscuits are a hallmark for many families at Christmas time – and for good reason. They involve only a few ingredients and there’s a limitless number of shapes to be made, as long as you have the cookie cutters for your desired shape the kids can choose anything from Christmas trees to stars to reindeer.

Ingredients:

220 grams butter
1 cup castor sugar
2 ½ cups plain flour
1 cup cornflour
1 tsp. vanilla essence

Method:

Preheat the oven to 180 degrees and line a tray with baking paper.
Coat the paper with cooking oil. Beat sugar, butter and vanilla until pale in colour.
Then add in flour and cornflour. Wrap the dough in plastic or baking paper and leave in the fridge for an hour.
Then, roll out the dough and use cookie cutters to cut out your desired shapes.
Place them on the baking tray and bake for 10 minutes.
Remove from the oven and leave to cool, then decorate as desired.

Cheat’s mango trifle

This is a classic summer dessert, but many are put off by the complex steps and elements involved in the recipe. This version is simple and quick – perfect for kids to get creative with.

Ingredients

2 store-bought sponge cakes
2 cups custard
2 cups of thinly sliced mango
85 grams raspberry jelly powder
300ml heavy cream
2 tbsp. raspberry jam

Method

Set out a large round bowl and place the first sponge cake in the base.
Make raspberry jelly according to package, then pour half over the sponge cake.
Then, pour half of the custard on top, followed by half of the mango – arrange it evenly on top of the cake.
After this, add the second sponge cake and pour over the rest of the jelly and the rest of the custard.
In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. This should take about 5 minutes.
Position the cream on top, then drizzle the jam on top and add the other half of the mango for decoration.
Leave it in the fridge to chill for an hour.

Berry summer mocktail

Berry mocktail — Pictured: Berry summer mocktail

Mocktails are perfect for the entire family – with a touch of elegance and festivity that is sure to impress any guests you have over. It’s also a great opportunity for the kids to get creative with a range of garnishing ideas they come up with, from lemon or lime wedges to mint leaves or even more substantial decorations like coating the glass rim in sugar. Here’s an easy and fun starter recipe.

Ingredients

1 cup blueberries
1 cup crushed raspberries
4 cups lemonade
8 mint leaves
1 lemon, neatly sliced

Method

To begin, make the berry syrup by putting the berries, sugar and a cup of water into a pot. Bring to the boil then set aside.
Set out four glasses – if you need to make more, simple adjust the recipe – and add the crushed raspberries into the bottom of each glass.
Mix a mint leaf into each cup, then add in a tablespoon of the blueberry sugar syrup mix. Add half a cup of lemonade to each glass then fill the rest of the glass with crushed ice.
For garnishes, add a mint leaf and a lemon slice, along with any other fruits or herbs of choice.

Candy cane yoghurt bark

This recipe puts a Christmassy twist on the easy yoghurt bark recipe with nostalgic candy canes. This dessert is so simple and safe for kids to make as there’s no hot temperatures involved.

Ingredients

2 cups plain yoghurt
2 candy canes, broken into small pieces
1 cup raspberries
1 tbsp. honey (or to taste)

Method

Line a freezer-safe tray with baking paper and set aside.
Mix yogurt and honey in a bowl.
Add crushed candy canes and raspberries.
Pour the mix onto the tray, then freeze for 3 hours. To serve, break into 10 pieces.

Alcohol-free pina colada

It’s not summer without a pina colada, and although this beverage is known for its alcoholic kick, there’s no reason the kids can’t enjoy this summery drink – minus the rum, of course.

Ingredients

1 cup frozen pineapple
½ cup coconut milk
½ cup ice cubes
¼ cup pineapple juice
4 maraschino cherries

Method

Place all ingredients in a blender for 1 minute or until thoroughly blended.
Pour into 2 glasses – you can double the recipe to make more.
Garnish with maraschino cherries, 2 for each glass.

These are a few simple cooking ideas to encourage the kids to get creative in the kitchen. Some of these recipes involve using electric equipment, hot water and the oven, and as such they may require parental supervision to ensure safety for these steps.

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FEATURED

Christmas on a Budget : Five steps for an affordable holiday season

By Kaylee Cranley December 2, 2021

The festive season is well and underway, yet for many who are still recovering from the year that has passed, adapting to the economic climate is more necessary than ever.

These five simple tips and suggestions are assured to prioritise this year’s Christmas on a budget and offer alternatives for an affordable holiday season for all.

Pervading with job crisis and financial burdens, the continuous effects of the COVID pandemic has left a topically unstable economic climate for the population worldwide. A few simple tips and suggestions can go a long way to support those on a tighter Christmas budget this year due to the economic shockwave of the year that has passed.

1. Start and Stick to a Christmas Spending Plan

As December begins it is important to map out the spending of the holiday season in advance. This may include gifting, travel, recreational activities, events and hidden costs. Planning a holiday budget offers you a blueprint to constantly refer back to throughout the spending season.

Money Smart states, “Budgeting helps you to feel in control of your money. Setting up a budget gives you a clear picture of your income and expenses. It can help you spend less and save more to achieve your money goals”.

You may like to write down your monthly income and establish you’re spending from there. Budgeting your monthly expenses from your income will be sure to keep you from being out of pocket with all of the added festive spending.

Business News Australia has released expectations of $11 billion dollars Australian spending on Christmas gifts this year. On average people are expected to spend $726 on gifts per person.

A good way to cut down your budget this year is to plan how much you will spend on each relative and exactly what you are planning to buy for them. This will keep you from being easily swayed by all the extra Christmas advertising.

For more handy tips on How to start a budget, track your spending, follow a compound interest calculator and more head to https://moneysmart.gov.au/budgeting.

2. Shop Ahead and Smart Gifting

The rush of the festive season can leave many scrambling for gifts and food at the last minute. This is one of the major ways people tend to overspend. Buying in advance helps you to stick to your holiday budget and avoid the extra stress and pressure of last minute additional costs, such as express shipping or paid wrapping.

When shopping ahead and smart gifting, it is a good idea to opt for joint-gifting. Putting in on gifts in groups or doubles saves costs and preparation time.

Spending your money and budget wisely also includes gifting practical gifts. The financial impact of the pandemic has contrived many to re-think wants and needs, viewing practicality as the new luxury. Many people who are currently tight on their budget, would prefer gifts more on the practical side, than opulent. This may be in the form of gift cards, houseware, kitchen supplies, an online streaming subscription or even the traditional socks and underwear. Remember that anyone who is struggling financially would welcome the alternative of the traditional over the extravagant.

3. Food

It’s essential to plan and budget your food costs over the Christmas period. Some key tips to lowering costs this year include cooking yourself, splitting the bill, and sharing the meal preparation between relatives and friends.

A savvy shopping tip when beginning food preparation includes buying frozen vegetables to cater across many recipes. Buying bulk for value, regardless of the ingredient, will allow you to successfully meal prep and save.

A final strategic shopping tip involves adding a couple of non-perishable items to your weekly shop in the lead up to Christmas. This will gently chip away at the “big shop” and also allow you to look out for value for money in the lead up period.

4. Shop Online

If you know you are prone to have a wandering eye and shopaholic tendencies, the added Christmas publicization and trading is not going to help your case. This holiday period, try shopping and accumulating all of your necessary gifts online.

Shopping online also allows you to price check and compare between sites. You can apply discount codes, follow up on sales, and opt for After-pay options, acquiring the correct gifts for all of your loved ones and sticking to your original budget plan.

For some price comparison websites include https://www.getprice.com.au, https://www.priceme.com.au, https://www.frugl.com.au which allow you to compare the prices and resources to save the most in return.

5. Alternatives to Buying Presents

There is truly nothing more sentimental then a gift that comes from the heart. This Christmas, if you are hoping to save on your budget, there are many alternatives instead of commercialised gifting.

Communicate to your loved ones sentimental value beyond what any material possession would through the act of caregiving and quality time. If you have an elder or impaired loved one in particular, you may offer to help them with chores or running errands throughout the Christmas and holiday period.

Sentimental ideas also come in the form of handmade gifting. Personalised presents such as photo albums or framed pictures, offer a longterm sentimental impression to your loved ones. If your budget is a little tighter than usual this year, you can also opt to handcraft gifts in the form of; knitting, crocheting, baking, crafting and more. You can also opt to hand-make Christmas decorations and cards to cut down on your budget this year.

Many online websites offer DIY inspiration. Head to https://www.blesserhouse.com/100-diy-christmas-gifts/ for a list of 100 DIY Gifts this Christmas.

Another alternative includes shopping secondhand. Saving on retail pricing by picking up second hand, offers the option of perfectly good quality items to save on your spending and still cross off the gifts on your loved ones wish-lists.

Offering a donation is another great way to give back this Christmas. Following the pandemic, more people than ever, need a helping hand.

The Salvation Army is just one charity you can give back to this Christmas. Stating , “All over Australia families are dealing with low wages, insecure jobs, a spiralling housing crisis, and the ongoing fallout from COVID-19. All at once. And with Christmas coming, they are also struggling with the shame and guilt of letting their children down on the day we are all supposed to celebrate hope and joy.”

You can also head to; https://christmasinaustralia.com.au/christmas-charities-in-australia/ for a list of organisations that you can help this Christmas.

It’s important to remember that you are not alone, and to give yourself a little extra love
this holiday season. The American Psychological Association (APA) reminds us, “Small acts like a handwritten note or FaceTime with your friends and family will go further than you think. Expressing your love and care is what really matters this year”.

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DEVELOPMENT

VTech and LeapFrog New Green Toys : A Gift for Children and the Environment 

By OFFSPRING December 2, 2021

In exciting news for both children and the environment, VTech Electronics worldwide leader in learning toys have progressed their commitment to a better world by introducing eco-friendly products using reclaimed and plant-based plastics.

Making it their mission to design and manufacture innovative, high-quality products in a manner that minimises impact on the environment, while creating sustainable value for customers and communities – the pair are launching the first drop of these new green electronic learning toys, just in time for Christmas!

The introduction of sustainable product packaging for VTech and LeapFrog toys is also well underway. Currently 94% of the packaging materials is recyclable, while 90% of the cardboard used is from recycled material. VTech has also committed to eliminating fossil-based blister packaging and replacing it with a plant-based alternative in 99% of the electronic learning products by 2025.

VTech Electronics is a member of the Australian Packaging Covenant Organisation, committed to reducing the environmental impact of its packaging.

Each new toy is a first and very important step in both VTech and LeapFrog’s commitment to replacing fossil-based plastics with sustainability alternatives by 2030.

Meet our new eco-friendly toys, environmentally friendly and the perfect gift for Christmas!

VTech Ride & Go Recycling Truck, RRP $59.95
When you get the Ride & Go Recycling Truck, you’re already doing your part to help the earth!

This recycling truck is made from plastic that is 90% reclaimed, which means less waste goes into landfills. Beginner recyclers will love hopping on this lean, green recycling machine and pushing it round while learning about recycling and reusing everyday objects.

Ride & Go Recycling Truck is suitable for 18 to 36 months, and available from Big W, Target, Myer, good toy stores and online retailers.

VTech Toot-Toot Drivers Bio-plastic Special Edition Vehicles, RRP $14.95
Grow your imagination while you reduce, reuse and recycle with these earth-friendly vehicles that are perfectly sized for little hands. Each Toot-Toot Drivers vehicle features a light-up face and three sing-along songs and six melodies. But these little vehicles are mighty kind to the environment because the plastic used to make them is 85% plant based and comes from renewable sources.
Toot-Toot Drivers Bio-plastic Special Edition Vehicles are suitable for toddlers 1-5 years and available at good toy stores and online retailers.

LeapFrog Choppin’ Fun Learning Pot, RRP $39.95
The Choppin’ Fun Learning Pot is a recipe for learning fun! And with all the vegetables made from 85% plant-based plastic, it’s also a recipe that’s more sustainable for the environment.

Children love to pretend to cook. Prepare broccoli, sweetcorn, a tomato and a carrot with snap-apart vegetables, a play knife and cutting board. Hear the pot respond with encouraging phrases as kids add veggies to the pot.

Choppin’ Fun Learning Pot is suitable for children over 12 months, and available now from Target, good toy stores and online retailers.

LeapFrog Interactive Wooden Animal Puzzle, RRP $29.95

Perfect for playtime! With four interactive play modes, this puzzle is full of delightful surprises.
Match animal puzzle pieces by shape and colour. Animal names and sounds, colours and fun facts are featured in Animals mode and in Numbers mode, count the objects hidden under the animals. Questions about animals, colours and numbers help reinforce the learning. This product is made with 100% FSC® Certified wood and the plastic in this product is 90% reclaimed.

For pre-schoolers from 2 years, the Interactive Wooden Animal Puzzle is available at Target, good toy stores and online retailers.

LeapFrog Touch & Learn Nature ABC Board, RRP $39.95

Bring a love of nature into the world of learning with the Touch & Learn Nature ABC Board.
With a touch-sensitive wooden board and an animated light-up LED screen, this toy tablet teaches letters, letter sounds and counting. Explore 26 animal/letter buttons, a music button and more. Touch the animals one by one to count to 10! This product is made with 100% FSC® Certified wood and the plastic in this product is 90% reclaimed.

For Pre-schoolers from 2 years, the Touch & Learn Nature ABC Board is available now at Target and Myer, good toy stores and online retailers.

VTech Electronics will continue to develop eco-friendly products and packaging, with a great range of new sustainable VTech and LeapFrog toys coming soon in 2022 and beyond.

To learn more about VTech products please visit www.vtech.com.au and for LeapFrog products please visit www.leapfrog.com.au.

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KIDS

How your neuro-diverse family can manage Christmas stress

By Lauren Moss November 4, 2021

Don’t worry if you’re the parent or carer of a neuro-diverse child and you are already starting to feel stressed about the festive season. You’re not alone. As Christmas approaches, it’s common for ASD (autism spectrum disorder) parenting forums to fill up with questions. Let’s not forget how incredibly challenging it is for those of us who have spent the better part of this year in lockdown to prepare for Christmas, as we’ve had little opportunity for social interaction.

Christmas can be extra hard for those kids with autism. Often there are changes at home, with decorations appearing and carols playing. Many on the spectrum find comfort and security in routine the familiar, and the changes can be stressful. Read on to learn some tips on how to manage the stresses of Christmas.

Choose your Christmas events carefully

Christmas parades, parties, and concerts often involve vast amounts of sensory input, which can cause significant issues for those on the spectrum or with processing disorders. Consider smaller, local events and communicate what will happen before, during, and after the event, so your child is well informed. Consider creating a social scenario to help them understand the sequence of events and what you expect of them. If they have sensory issues, bring along items to help them feel settled, like a weighted blanket, a fidget toy, or noise-cancelling headphones.

Counting down to Christmas Day

For young children, you may want to start preparing them for Christmas early to avoid triggering anxiety. Consider adding a visual method for counting down to Christmas, either using a sensory version of an advent calendar or simply marking off days on a calendar. Counting down like this can help your child prepare for the event.

Christmas Day – set expectations

Christmas Day can be overwhelming and carry with it a range of expectations for ASD children. Prepare them by going through the following:

Discuss the schedule – creating a social story can help with this.
Talk about how you receive a gift, setting rules and expectations, like, “we should say thank you for each present we receive – even if we don’t like it.”
List everyone they are likely to meet on Christmas Day – this can help them prepare for interacting with lots of people. Speak to your extended family beforehand, so they understand how your child is likely to react. Let your child know it is important to greet each person but that it’s up to them whether they want a hug, eye contact, or just a verbal greeting.
Food on Christmas Day
Make sure the food they like is available on Christmas Day. While it’s nice to encourage them to try new things, if their favourite food is pasta, have that on hand.
We want everyone to have a wonderful day and hope these tips will allow you and your family to enjoy a wonderful festive season.

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KIDS

Sydney Weekend Activity Guide

By Steph Hazelton February 9, 2021

Experiences are invaluable and make the best memories. Do something different, try something new, explore the city and have some family fun with our Sydney weekend activity guide.

ACTION
Activate the adrenaline and eliminate the boredom with this action-packed To-Do list. Bonus points if you do it too!

iFLY Sydney Indoor Skydiving
Pull-on your superhero suit and leap into the thrilling experience of indoor skydiving. In a controlled environment for ages 3 – 103 and no aeroplane to jump out of, there’s almost no excuse not to give it a try! www.iflyworld.com.au

Lets Go Surfing
Perhaps your local pool isn’t quite cutting it and your kids are keen on a new experience or a new hobby. A surf lesson is a fantastic way to dive into the summer and as a bonus, teach kids about resilience – if you fall down, you get back up and go again.

Lets Go Surfing facilitates private and group lessons for kids, families, and adults looking to take their water skills up a notch (bragging rights included!). Sydney locations include Bondi and Maroubra. https://letsgosurfing.com.au/

Treetop Adventure Park
It’s a choose your own adventure, in real life. Fly through tree-tops, climb, weave and wobble your way through 100 elevated obstacles. You might even meet some native Australian wildlife in the giant gum trees!
https://www.treetops.com.au/

Luna Park
Another park, but of the ride kind. You know the one. Endless fun and excitement for all!
https://www.lunaparksydney.com/

Ice Zoo
We know Sydney summers can be a scorcher. Pretend you’re in a winter wonderland and cool off at Ice Zoo Ice Skating.
www.icezoo.com/

9D Action Cinemas
If having a family feels action-fuelled and chaotic enough, this one might be for you! Although you’ll be bearing the brunt of smoke, wind, snow, water, and fire via 3D glasses and 9D effects, you won’t need to reign it in or take the wheel on this one. Sit back, buckle up, and enjoy the ride.
https://www.9dactioncinemas.com.au/

Manly Kayak Centre
Explore the pristine waters of North Harbour with kayak hire, stand-up paddleboard, boat hire, lessons, and tours at Manly Kayak Centre! You will be paddling in paradise, exploring exclusive beaches, and taking in the stunning scenery along the way!

Raging Waters Sydney
Slip, slop, slap, kick and splash at Sydney’s biggest water park. If sliding down a whirlwind is too much for your stomach to handle, race your family on the eight-lane water racecourse or relax in the Cabana retreat by the wave pool.
https://ragingwaterssydney.com.au/

EDUCATION AND MUSEUMS
Learning made easy by visiting these interactive, eye-opening exhibitions and attractions.

Powerhouse Museum
Have you ever wanted to walk through a koala train made from over 2,000 multi-coloured pom poms? Probably not. But artist Rosie Deacon has, and she’s brought it to life at the Powerhouse for the school holidays. There’s something for everyone, with further exhibitions exploring Australian music, the future home, science, and design.
https://maas.museum/powerhouse-museum/

Museum of Contemporary Art
The MCA makes learning fun and accessible with their new online activities based on the current exhibition Anywhere but here: MCA Primavera Acquisitions. The activities can take place online at home or in the galleries via audio-guide. Suitable for ages 4+, the activities include string and body mapping, paper storytelling, looking through the viewfinder, and drawing your celebration, inspired by featuring artists.
https://www.mca.com.au/

Australian National Maritime Museum
It’s all hands on deck at the Maritime Museum. There are exhibitions including Beach Couture – a collection of wearable artworks made from rubbish and plastic pollution in the ocean, performances, tours, creative workshops, ocean labs, and the immersive and magical experience of Badu by Erth.
All aboard the Sea Museum! https://www.sea.museum/

The Royal Botanic Garden Sydney
If you’ve been indoors for too long and are after a temporary escape from the city, immerse yourself in the Royal Botanic Garden. Have a sunset picnic or take a pleasant walk through the Palace Rose Garden. Join a crafty workshop or guided tour and hear the stories of the Cadigal people and the plants that grow. https://www.rbgsyd.nsw.gov.au/

Madame Tussauds
Superheroes, world leaders, Bollywood stars, Aussie icons, celebrities and fame, join the red carpet and be in the same room as your favourite people at Madame Tussauds. This jaw-dropping museum will have you rocking in the spotlight to your favourite songs, recreating album covers and transforming into a superhero using the museum’s new Augmented Reality featuring body-tracking sensors.
https://www.madametussauds.com/sydney/

Sea Life Aquarium
Just next door to Madame Tussauds you can explore the fascinating sea life at the Aquarium. Face your fears as you walk under some of the world’s biggest aquarium sharks, including Grey Nurse Sharks. This 180-degree tunnel experience is always a highlight!
https://www.visitsealife.com/sydney/