5 Gift Ideas For Newborns

Welcoming a new person into the world is always exciting, but you know that their parents will be absolutely exhausted for a while to come. Even if they have tried to prepare for their new arrival as best as they can, there are some things they may have forgotten or run out of time to buy. And then there are items that just don’t fit in the budget. If you are in the market for a gift for a friend’s new baby, here are some ideas you might want to consider.

1. Personalised Items

Personalising a gift will make it all the more special, both for the parents and the newborn. You want an item that will be practical and memorable yet will also last a long time. It may even be worth trying to make something with your own two hands. But if you aren’t that handy or crafty, you might prefer to take advantage of specialists in personalising gifts such as Personalised Favours.

2. Blankets

A newborn can never have enough blankets, especially if they are born during the colder winter months. There are so many different types of blankets, made from a variety of materials, so there are endless possibilities for gifts. You might want to also consider personalising such a purchase (with the child’s name or initials, for example) just to add that extra bit of flair.

3. Clothes

Clothes are always a great gift, and you will always have fun shopping around for them. The number of outfits available for children is enormous, so make sure you look for clothes that have been constructed and sewn well and are also easy to wash.

4. Books

Even though they may not be able to read yet, every child needs their own library of books. This is often an overlooked gift, thanks to the advent of technology and eBooks and the like, but the tactile sensation of holding and reading a book is something that cannot ever be replicated.

5. Toys

Every child loves toys, and almost everyone will have fond memories of a cuddly toy that stayed with them through their childhood. You can also buy a variety of educational toys for newborns, and these can range from simple puzzles to the ever-popular set of alphabet blocks. If you want to buy something special, you may want to consider visiting a workshop where you can construct your own toy for your lucky recipient.

These are just five types of gifts you might want to consider getting for a newborn. This is not a prescriptive list, and there are plenty of other fantastic presents out there for you to purchase. If you are still really stuck, consider asking some of your friends who have children for their ideas and thoughts on different types of presents; they should be able to point you in the right direction.

What types of gifts would you like or would you have wanted? What is the best gift you’ve received for your baby?

Leave your thoughts and experiences of gift ideas for newborns in the comments.

This is an S2 POST.

The post 5 Gift Ideas For Newborns appeared first on All Mum Said.

Day 2 of the Huge Christmas Giveaway brings you another amazing selection of prizes. A massive thank you goes out the businesses who donated these wonderful products and to the fans who have joined us at All Mum Said. I appreciate you all and your support does not go unnoticed.

Gardeners Hamper

5x WINNERS!!

Each Prize Contains: 1x 500ml Fresh, New Age Barrier Cream and New Age Revive Skin Conditioner – prize pack RRP $30.85 each  (Total Prize pool: $154.25)

If you find yourself in the garden a lot or know someone who does, this might just be the perfect gift. I know after I’ve been weeding and planting all day it takes a toll on my hands and they require some extra care. These 3 fantastic products from Lightning will undo the damage and leave your hands feeling fresh, clean and conditioned. The barrier cream is wonderful if you are prone to dry skin, it will keep your hands moisturised throughout the day without leaving them with a greasy texture. It is also ideal for soothing grazes, eczema, sun damage and mild burns as is the Revive skin conditioner. Lightning is an Australian owned company that produce Australian made products.

LUNA BLU

Prize Contains: 1x Megan Bag – Denim Spot. RRP $80.00.

I have eyed off the Luna Blu range for a while now but something has always stopped me from purchasing one. My issue with the Luna Blu bags was that I loved all the styled and prints so much, I couldn’t decide which one I wanted the most. I want them all! The Megan bag is a fantastic choice as it is big enough that you can comfortably take all your ‘must have’ items with you but small enough you don’t have to drag it behind you when you fill it. There are 3 internal compartments in addition to other zipped sections, including one on the exterior. The bag itself zips shut so you can be at ease knowing your belongings are safe. Finished with beautiful details and a detachable shoulder strap, this bag is very versatile and stylish. You can use it as an everyday bag or even a chic nappy bag.

Rollercopter

Prize Contains: 1x Air Hogs RC Rollercopter – RRP $69.99.

Air Hogs are always a hit in our house for both young and old. The Rollercopter is easy enough for kids to manoeuvre, fly and control while in the air and on the ground. Each year Air Hogs expand their range with cooler stuff than the previous and this one is no different. Not only can it fly but it can also roll across the floor, up walls and along the ceiling. Gravity is no barrier. Boys and girls of all ages will enjoy hours of endless fun with the Rollercopter and thanks to the rolling cage, you know your Heli is protected.

Gyrofish

Prize Contains: 1x DOSH Wallet – (winners choice) – RRP $89.00.

If you are looking for something unique, minimal and stylish for dad, your man or yourself than you cannot go past the DOSH Luxe wallet from Gyrofish. With the capacity to hold 6 cards this highly durable wallet is streamline and sleek. It is made in Australia with 100% recyclable materials so it not only looks good but is good for the economy and environment. The DOSH wallet is available in a range of great colours, Mr C has the piano one (black and white) and he cannot say enough positive things about it. That’s saying something as he is a hard man to please when it comes to gifts like this. An awesome product from an awesome online store.

Charli Bird

Prize Contains: 1x Ellie silk scarf – RRP $69.95.

Oh my goodness, the range of scarves at Charli Bird are to die for! Designed in France the 100% silk scarves are so soft you just want to touch them repeatedly. The splashes of colour catch your eye but don’t take away from the detail in the scarf itself. They are lightweight so they are perfect for an all year round accessory for the scarf lovers like myself. I have the Amelie silk scarf and it is now my go-to scarf. I love the beautiful colours and the feel of it against my skin. They look stunning in the pictures but they are even more breathtaking in person.

TEE-ZED

Prize Contains: 1x Minnie Magic Table Lamp – RRP $40.00.

This gorgeous Minnie Mouse magic table lamp would make a little girls room complete. If she is scared of the dark this will be a welcomed addition to her decor as it can stay on safely all night. When the lamp is turned on, the background scene magically transforms and Minnie mouse opens her eyes to watch over your precious little one while she sleeps. These delightful Tee-Zed Magic Table Lights are available to purchase from Big W in Disney® characters, Mickey®, Minnie® and Pooh®.

PILLOW PETS Popables

Prize Contains: 1x Pillow Pets popable Monster/Alien  – RRP $29.99.

We all know PILLOW PETS are ‘IN’ right now so it is only natural that the PILLOW PETS Popable will be a huge hit among kids this Christmas. The popable version is a lot of fun and you basically get 2 Pillow Pets for the price of one. I love that both sides are completely different from one another. Just like the original Pillow Pets these are fun, easy to use, great for snuggling and playing with. You can purchase them from Big W or PILLOW PETS online.

HINKLER

2x WINNERS!!

Prize #1 Contains: 1x Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Reality Shock 2015, hard cover book – RRP $29.25.

Prize #2 Contains: 1x Glamour Girl sketchbook~ Learn to be a Catwalk Designer & 1x Glamour Girl Magnetic Dress-Up Dolls – RRP $23.00

Ripley’s Believe It or Not!: Ripley’s Believe It or Not! is a best selling annual series. We are a huge fan of the Ripley’s books because each year it is filled with amazing stories and unbelievable facts. Popular not only among the adults but children as well; our 7 year old loves fact books and learning about the incredible world we live in. You can purchase Ripley’s Believe It or Not! 2015 from all good book stores.

Glamour Girl: For the aspiring designer in your home the Glamour Girl pack shares tips and tricks to help them find their creative style and express their glamorous side. The sketch book contains stickers, stencils, sketch pages and advice. The Magnetic Dress-Up Dolls are fun to swap and change, try new things on different models.The magnets can be stored away safely and neatly in the provided tin. Hours of fun will be had with this Glamour Girl Pack.

BRAUER

Prize Contains: 6x Brauer Paw Paw Lip Shimmers – RRP $5.50 each. (Total Prize: $33.00)

I find if I have a gorgeous colour on my lips, I am ready for the day. The Paw Paw Lip Shimmers from Brauer are not only pretty colours but they are also natural and moisturise your lips throughout the day. The shimmers are available in a range of colours to suit your style and personality while leaving you with a silky smooth smile. These are my favourite lip shimmers because they are affordable and look great! You can find them in stores or purchase them from Brauer online.

Lil Mister & Sister

2x WINNERS!!

Prize #1 contains: 1x Pink girls blouse size 4 – RRP $15.00

Prize #2 contains: 1x Boys long sleeve 100% cotton top size 5 – RRP $7.00

Lil Mister & Sister offer a range of clothes for kids at affordable prices. The girls top  is available in a couple of gorgeous colours, it’s lightweight and perfect for summer. The boys long sleeve top is really soft, fun and made with 100% cotton. It would be great to put away for the cooler months. You will be able to find something to suit every little boy and girl at Lil Mister & Sister.

**As the winners are chosen based on skill and not chance; you will be sharing for 0 extra entries however I’d love you to share the giveaway with friends and family. Sharing is caring and karma loves kind people. **

While I will do my best to ensure everyone wins the prize they prefer, I cannot guarantee this will happen.

*Some prizes may not arrive prior to Christmas. This is out of my hands. 

a Rafflecopter giveaway

If you want to enter more giveaways click over here.

Disclosure: I received 1x of each of these items for the purpose of reviewing. All opinions are my own.

The post Huge Christmas Giveaway – Day 2 appeared first on All Mum Said.

Christmas is once again upon us and being the people pleaser I am, I couldn’t deny you wonderful fans of the HUGE Christmas giveaway you have all come to love. There are so many incredible businesses and products taking part this year so I want to start by saying a massive thank you to them all for their generosity. This is Day 1 of 3 prize filled Christmas Giveaways.

Flutterbye Deluxe Light Up Fairy

5x WINNERS!!

Each Prize Contains: 1x Flutterbye Deluxe Light Up Fairy – RRP $59.99 (Total Prize pool: $299.95)

This gorgeous little fairy brings magic to real life. Watch her lights come to life and skirt twirl as she launches from your hand or her base. The Flutterbye Deluxe Light Up Fairy will make every little girl happy this Christmas with her ability to fly and her magical glow. Available in major retail stores for RRP $59.99.

Best friend is a bag

Prize Contains: 1x Emily Tote (winner can select colour – Caramel, Red, Black or Silver) – RRP $169.00

I am a huge fan of My Best Friend is a Bag. Not only are their bags absolutely gorgeous, they are great quality, durable and practical. The Emily tote is full of features that make our day to day just a little bit easier. Emily has a detachable shoulder strap, is light-weight, features the My Best Friend is a Bag signature interior pockets, clip for your car keys (one of my favourite features of all their bags) and a padded sleeve that fits you’re your iPad/Tablet. She is the just like a best friend, beautiful and perfect by your side. Available in 4x colours for $169.00.

Tiger Tribe

Prize Contains: 4x Busy Builders, Rainbow Xylophone, Large Jewellery Box, Vintage Tea Set and Mini Rag Doll. Total Prize – RRP $203.60.

Busy Builders: The Busy Builders from Tiger Tribe are perfect for both boys and girls. Great for big or little hands. Available in 4 different vehicles: Cement mixer, dump truck, excavator and loader. You can deconstruct them and make your own by mixing and matching. Providing hours of fun the Busy Builders don’t require batteries and when pushed they GO with ease. Made from sustainable plantation wood and water based paints you can be assured they are safe for your child. RRP $15.95ea.

Rainbow Xylophone: This eco-friendly Bamboo Rainbow Xylophone is full of colour and spunk! Tiger Tribe have a unique take on the standard xylophone. This 5 drum xylophone comes with 2 drum sticks, is incredible quality and offers gentle tones for both children and parents ears. Poppet absolutely loves hers and it is amazing seeing her make new sounds. She loves to stack them while she plays which creates different sounds again. Another benefit the brightly coloured Rainbow Xylophone has is it can be packed away neatly. RRP $49.95.

Large Jewellery Box: Every little girl should enjoy having their very own musical jewellery box and this one from Tiger Tribe is absolutely perfect. It has been made to last and built with quality; just what every little girl needs to store her precious treasures. Poppet has the Oriental Blossom jewellery box and she love watching the swan dance as it plays Swan Lake. It would make the perfect gift this Christmas. RRP $39.95

Vintage Tea Set: High tea anyone? This gorgeous 15 piece vintage round tea set will have you and your daughter (or son) enjoying tea parties for years to come. While they look delicate and dainty the Tiger Tribe vintage tea set is tin so there will be no broken plates. Poppet has managed to get her big brothers and dolls involved in her tea parties. It is very cute watching them all pretend to sip tea. Well Poppet actually just tries to drink straight from the teapot but as she grows she will learn. Each gorgeous round floral suitcase includes: 1 x serving tray, 1 x tea pot, 4 x plates, 4 x saucers, 4 x tea cups. RRP $34.95.

Mini Rag Doll: Poppet has lots of dolls and babies but her favourite seem to be her Tiger Tribe rag dolls. She recently received a Mini Rag Doll from Tiger Tribe and she is in love with it. Her name is Milly and as the saying goes ‘Good things come in small packages’, she is no different. These are great for little hands and the perfect size for little love, cuddles and toddler adventures. The Mini Rag Doll is available in Milly and Lola for $14.95.

Ultimate Sleep

2x WINNERS!!

Each Prize Contains: 1x My First Pillow – RRP $24.95. (Total prize pool: $49.90)

I had been considering getting Poppet a pillow for a few months and to be honest I wasn’t exactly sure what I should be looking for. After using the Toddler Pillow from Ultimate Sleep, I now know that this is what I have been searching for. It is designed to give children the best support for their head and neck. This hypoallergenic and machine washable toddler pillow measures 40x60cm making it the perfect size for little heads. Available from Ultimate Sleep in a range of sizes for children ages 18+ months to 14 years. Prices starting from $24.95. Ultimate Sleep also specialise in products for mums, babies as well as during and after birth.

Baby Button

Prize Contains: 1x Mama Organiser and 1x Tag-A-Long Blanket (winner can select print of their choice from available stock on the website) – Total Prize RRP $39.90  

Mama Organiser: The name of this item has pretty much summed up this product. It gets mums (dads, carers, etc) organised. I knew I was going to be a fan of the Mama Organiser but I love this product more than I ever thought I would. It is soft to touch, looks stylish and describing it as practical is an understatement. It simplifies outings by holding nappies, wipes and much more. Available in a wide range of prints for $24.95.

Tag Blanket: Perfect for stimulating your little ones senses the Tag-A-Long Blankets are soft, textured and easy for bub to carry. This product is ideal for the home, car or pram and makes a great gift for baby showers and birthdays. The tag blankets are available in a range of fun prints. RRP $14.95 however they are currently on sale for $9.95.

Parenting with heart and soul

2x WINNERS!!

Each Prize Contains: 1x Parenting with Heart & Soul by Kelly Burch (Book). RRP $17.00. (Total prize pool: $34.00)

I’ll be the first to say I am not a mum who reads parenting books or even know what EFT is. However, Parenting with Heart & Soul is so much more than that. FIY: EFT means Emotional Freedom Technique. While it is predominantly a ‘parenting’ book, a lot of the ideas it shares work on everyone. As I turned the pages of this parent’s guide to emotional freedom with EFT I realised that many of the concerns and issues we have for our boys (ages 7 & 5) were included, confirming a lot of what I already suspected. Kelly Burch has written in a way that explains the thinking and reactions of children and us parents in a way that everyone can relate to, along with possible reasons they may be acting/behaving in such a way. She talks about fears, being present, anxieties, eating, stress and much more. A very interesting read that is well worth its RRP $17.00.

**As the winners are chosen based on skill and not chance; you will be sharing for 0 extra entries however I’d love you to share the giveaway with friends and family. Sharing is caring and karma loves kind people. **

GIVEAWAY HAS CLOSED!! Winners have been announced on the winners page.

While I will do my best to ensure everyone wins the prize they prefer, I cannot guarantee this will happen.

*Some prizes may not arrive prior to Christmas. This is out of my hands. 

a Rafflecopter giveaway
If you want to enter more giveaways click over here.

Disclosure: I received 1x of each of these items for the purpose of reviewing. All opinions are my own.

The post Huge Christmas Giveaway – Day 1 appeared first on All Mum Said.

This is such a fun age to buy for and my Christmas gift guide for preschoolers shows just how easy they are to please.

Christmas Gift Guide for Preschoolers

Under $20

Playdoh is always a winner! What child doesn’t love creating and mixing playdoh? This set is available from Toys R Us for $10.00.

An old favourite that has been around for years! Totem tennis available from Target for $12.00.

Under $40

Baby Alive Tummy Treat baby is great for preschoolers. She licks her ice cream and cookie treats when you hold them to her mouth. Available at Toys R US for $24.98.

Dress ups are an easy choice as the possibilities are endless! You can buy them almost anywhere but the two shown above are from Costume Box. 

This vintage Tiger Tribe tea set is not only adorable but it brings back some of the nostalgia from childhood for mothers. What little girl wouldn’t love sitting down to have a tea party with her friends and dolls. RRP $34.95.

LEGO Duplo are great for both boys and girls with a wide range of sets available. These two sets can be purchased from Target for $39.20.

Under $50

The Shellraiser from TMNT! will have the kids (and their Ninja Turtles) ready for battle. This gnarly vehicle has lots of great features:
• Spring loaded blasting bazooka launcher
• Battle ramp
• Battle hatch
• Fits up to 8 turtle action figures
• Decal stickers for decorating
• Suitable for ages 4 and up
• No batteries required

Available from Myer for $49.95.

Over $100

Most preschoolers enjoy playing house so why not get them a Little Tikes Play House? The perfect fixer-upper for little ones. They can build the fence, fix the flowers, check the mailbox, etc. Available from Target for $151.20.

Need ideas for HIM? HER? BOY? GIRLS?

What’s on your preschoolers wish list?

The post Christmas Gift Guide for Preschoolers appeared first on All Mum Said.

Mums are the easiest people to buy for because we are (usually) just happy when someone thinks of us. I have put together a Christmas gift guide for women to give a little assistance to those who may not have any idea of what to get the lady of the house. With gifts to suit all budgets there is something for everyone!

Christmas Gift Guide for Women

Under $20

Contour Glitter Candles (3 pack) – Turquoise, Mint, White. Available from Dusk for $10.00.

With the current sale you can get a 20×20 hard over photo book from Snapfish for only $14.00.* To get 65% off ANY of their photo books use code: FESTIVEBK.

Canvas Print 30x45cm from Snapfish.* Use code: FESTIVE60 and get it for $20.00.

Under $50

Wife on the Run – By: Fiona Higgins.* When social media and a mobile phone expose a high school scandal and a husband’s shameful secrets the only thing left to do is … run. In the remarkable new novel from the bestselling author of The Mothers’ Group a beleaguered wife and mother escapes it all on a family road trip – without technology – to reclaim her life and rebuild her family. RRP $23.95 from Booktopia.

Yes Please by: Amy Poehler.* This paperback is a hilarious collection of stories that finds Amy riffing on sex, love, family, friendship and plastic surgery. It is chock-full of great jokes and sage advice (the useful kind, not the annoying kind you didn’t ask for). RRP $25.95 from Booktopia.

Beautiful Swarovski pearls with “Tree of Life” charm from Jet Empire. Available in 12 different colours so there is something to suit every woman. RRP $45.00.

Karlsson Little Big Time Wall Clock is perfect for the clock lovers out there. Available in black or silver for $49.00 from Gyrofish.

Under $100

Viktor & Rolf Bonbon 90ml perfume. This deliciously feminine fragrance is currently on sale at Myer for only $99.00. This is my favourite perfume at the moment – it smells so good!

Over $100

The Emily is gorgeous, compact and versatile. Available in 4 colours and is the perfect size, not too big – not too small. RRP $169.00 from My Best Friend is a Bag.

Need ideas for HIM?

What are you getting your mum, sister or wife for Christmas? What’s on your wish list?

*affiliate link

The post Christmas Gift Guide for Women appeared first on All Mum Said.