Hi dear Varya! I’m glad Tessa is playing with playdough. I’m sorry you can’t find the tartar powder! I shall have to give you some the next time I see you. Lovely to see these photos of Tessa!
I have been meaning to come back and comment on this post for a while now. I am so sorry to hear about your sister. My sister and I are incredibly close, so I can’t imagine what that would be like to lose her. It’s especially hard to hear about her young children, but as Maryanne said, it’s great to hear that your mother is keeping her memory alive. Thank you for sharing.
I love this! You are right that there are other posts about this festival, but this one really gives us a flavor of what it is like to be in China during this holiday. Thank you for sharing!
I can’t believe I’ve gone my entire life without knowing about moon cakes. They sound delicious! I imagine the whole festival must be a magical thing to experience. Thanks for giving us a glimpse!
It’s more like a never ending moon cake swapping and they are EVERYWHERE. Even Starbucks has their own made. So does Haagen Dazs has amazing ice cream moon cakes (YUMMY!). If you have a China Town near by or a Chinese restaurant you can ask them next year around this season.
I thoroughly enjoyed this post – especially learning about all the different versions of the legend. That moon cake looks delicious. So interesting to read about the rabbit and the moon – there is a hare in the moon folktale in Zambia (where my husband is from).
Thank you! btw, the new settings still require moderation. I’m checking to see what I can do to have those who commented earlier post comments without approval.
Thank you! I plan on teaching her more designs. She has a Rapunzel doll with long hair that allows making different designs, so she’s been engaged with that a lot too!
I love this post – what a beautiful way to spend your Mother/Daughter outings! Sounds like you daughter has had a hectic time of it this past year – I hope she continues to recover well.
These are great ideas! Annabelle just found a couple of old toothbrushes that I use for cleaning and was very interested in them. I can only imagine how excited she’ll be if I offer them to her with some paint!
Thank you! I am sure she’ll enjoy playing with the toothbrushes. My daughter can use just about anything. I also didn’t mention it in the post, but cars, trucks, blocks, beads – whatever you can easily wash and are not afraid to get in paint – will also do well!
Hiya, just wanted to say lovely blog! And would it be cheeky of me to ask you to point me towards any particular posts you might have about helping un-block toddlers to paint? Not sure what sort of guidelines to give or not. My little one sometimes is very free and other times gets extremely frustrated that she can’t make things look the way she wants.
I wish you had a like button, I’d be liking posts all over the place on your site by the way 😉
coco
Thank you so much, Cordelia! I can say the same about your blog as I enjoy reading your posts!
Since I haven’t been posting much, I only have 2 major posts dedicated to this subject Abstract Painting (http://littleartists.blog.com/2012/12/29/abstract-painting/) and Four Things to Remember when Raising a Little Artist (http://littleartists.blog.com/2010/05/09/four-things-to-remember-when-raising-an-artist/).
Frustration about perfection is a part of growing up. In her case she is probably trying to express through painting/drawing what she can’t express verbally. It also helps children unwind and if she is overly frustrated about not being able to do it “right”, she might be undergoing some emotional turmoil of her own. I should really write more on this subject as I have some really great observations and discoveries based on the painting/drawing process I watched and how children react to that. If you see the things are heating up, offer her a choice to stop and switch the activity. If she is not ready to do that or gets more frustrated, offer to help her. My daughter used to do that and I would just offer to finish up for her and later she would just ask me to help her if she was getting at the stage where she felt she couldn’t do it or simply ran out of patience 🙂
Try different approaches and see what works for you – all children are different, after all!
Thank you again for stopping by! Let me know how it goes!
I love collecting rose petals and leaves and drying them. I recently brought back some leaves from Bahji that I found on the path to the Shrines. I have dried them so that I can write prayers on them and give them as gifts. Kept you all in my prayers too. 🙂
Thanks for such a great post! I save everything and anything that I can because I don’t want to trash it. 🙂 Now I have to see how am I going to upcycle what I have.
So simple and so cute. My girls love tearing and cutting paper and then pasting it but I never thought to give them an outline. That would make it a little more challenging. It might also be fun to make it a color by number.
It is fun! I remember from my kindergarten days how we used to tear out shapes and make a whole picture out of it. This is the strongest memory about the kindergarten craft I have. Looking forward to reading what they come up with!!!
Thanks for sharing this dear Varya! I love that the lyrics and the music inspired Tessa to want to learn it. I would love to hear her sing it. And how wonderful that you recorded it in Russian. I’m so happy that it can touch many people’s lives in different languages.
Hi Varya! Stopping by from your annual linky party! This is a great post, and a must to do with little one, especially on these cold winter days! Thanks for sharing!
What great ideas! I especially love your reminder that our children learn loving behavior from watching us. Plus, I think it makes kids feel secure when they see an affectionate relationship between their parents. Happy Valentine’s Day!
Lovely post! It is amazing how different pregnancies can be. Both of mine were easy, but the first time I was very anxious after having gone through two miscarriages. The second was much more relaxed, but because of caring full-time for my toddler, I had difficulty fitting in regular exercise or any sort of “me” time – something I still struggle with now! Still, our baby also seems to be a much better sleeper than his older brother, so hopefully things will even out soon!
I realized that having an older child is actually a bit more helpful, to me that is. With how our spirited Miss T was before 3 and before 2 it would be really hard to manage pregnancy and her. However, I am sure I would adjust! One really good point of having children close to each other is that they at some point start playing together really well as their interests as more or less similar after the 2nd one crosses 1 year of age. Either way, I am glad things worked out for you and me as they did!!!
Great idea! As we send gifts to family overseas we tend to send some for Christmas and birthdays at the same time. My sister had her gift on the mantle for 3 months last year just enjoying the artistry of the gift wrap! Good idea on how to cover up the joins between the paper, too! Thank you for sharing!
Welcome! I always feel so sad when I have to throw some drawings away. But there really isn’t place to keep all of them! So we try and recycle/upcycle them as much as we can.
Lots of great ideas for painting 🙂 I should get the finger paints out again soon. We haven’t tried straw painting-we’ll have to try it outside when the weather warms up! And you’re right, every picture tells a story.
I really enjoyed this post! I had a small carrier for our son that was handed down from my sister. Then later we invested in a big long wrap that both my husband and I could wear, and it was so handy for going through airports! It was a bit cumbersome, however, so my mom was great and made a ring sling for us when my daughter was born, and we also had use of a pouch sling. For the first 6 months this is all I used while my son was in a stroller. I haven’t used it in quite a while, but may get it out again. Mom also made a small matching one for using with the dolls and both my children have enjoyed that. Babywearing is becoming more common in Northern Ireland, which is nice to see 🙂 Enjoy!
Thank you! I like simple cooking with broccoli and cauliflower and try to add some variations to it (potatoes, this time ham, carrots…). Let me know if Mr T liked it!
With a few exceptions it sounds like our pregnancies were similar. It’s always interesting to hear of other experiences. Your thought list is very logical, and it’s nice to have it all in one place. Thanks for sharing something that is so personal.
Thank you for your kind comment. Where I am there are no pregnancy and new mothers support groups. So I had to figure out a lot of things by myself. Also, people’s ideas about pregnancy and PPT are very different from the “West”. I hope someone finds my experience helpful at least in the regard of not being alone out there and doing more research and getting the right information!
I love this article. What great suggestions! I like when you say, lead by example. That is the absolute best way to teach our children. You can say anything you want – but when they see you doing it – then it really clicks.
I also like how you divide up the younger children and the other children . I also believe that the older children should do some chores around the house – but they are children after all. After the chores are done, they should be allowed to play and explore.
I’m glad you like it. I never claim to have the answers to anything – after all, we, parents, are also learning as the children grown. These are my thoughts, ideas and personal experience (what is working or worked for us when teaching virtues to our child) that I share. If you have some tips as well or would like to write a guest post – you are mostly welcome! Thank you for reading and commenting!
Great ideas for a simple item, love it! We have done almost all of these at one time or another, but you never realise how many things they add up to!
We have used a handkerchief tied up to the end of a stick or small pole to make a ‘hobo’ packet. We’ve also used it as a ‘furoshiki’, the Japanese way to wrap it around your lunch box for transport, then you have a place mat to use when you unwrap your lunch.
Varya, what a beautiful story! How lovely that you fell in love after meeting so many years earlier. And you look absolutely gorgeous! What a lovely event to celebrate every year 🙂
Love these! They are so creative! My son and I recently used a towel to make a superhero cape. He was thrilled, and I loved that he could get such pleasure out of something so simple yet fun.
Oh, I love this! It looks like it was so much fun to do! It is hard to find projects like these that are easy for little ones but still come out looking great. Thanks for linking up to the Creative Kids Culture Blog Hop!
We love pierogies, too! My husband had never tasted them before we made them, and now they’re one of his favourites! My favourite is potato and cheddar cheese. Perhaps we’ll try some carrot ones, they sound tasty and colourful 🙂
[…] the festival of Ridván with our local Bahá’í community. As described in this beautiful introductory post from Creative World of Varya, Ridván commemorates the time when Bahá’u'lláh, the […]
I agree with you — incorporating crafts and other activities is a great idea with your English lessons. I’m excited to hear/read more about how this is going. And the Rainbow cloud turned out cute. 🙂
[…] the next stop in our series “Walking Through the Garden of Ridván.” So far we have set up a Ridván tent, looked at how families around the world celebrate the holiday, sampled a scrumptious rose water […]
What a wonderful idea to experience cultures around the world each month! Food and crafts are definitely great ways for kids to connect to other places. This looked delicious. 🙂
Thanks Varya!! I love that you and your kids found a new way to play with something you had around the home! Perfect! Thanks so much for sharing in our 100 Days of Play. Your post has been linked and shared!
Varya, this is a hit with my son, the kids I babysit, and my preschool students! It’s boxes or laundry baskets over here. So glad you shared this for the 100 Days of Play!
Glad it was such a useful experiment for you! Unfortunately my son gets quite a bit more screen time, especially now that we have a baby and sometimes it is the easiest way to keep him occupied. I am trying now to put in place a schedule, since otherwise it is too easy to just say, Okay, just one more video!
I know exactly how you feel! It was the same for us first few months. Also, your T is so fewer unsupervised activities can be offered. I felt guilty when A was born sbout a lot if screen time fir T but I just tried to give her to watch more educational programmes.
What fun! I remember being mesmerized by the gymnasts when I was little, too! They were so graceful. That must have been so much fun to play with the ribbons with the girls. I am sure I would have been rejected for being too tall as well!
I just love your blog. You are doing such a wonderful job and most of all you enjoying it.
I wish you to prosper and keep up the good job.
You are a lovely parents I’ve witnesssed myself.
Love you both very dearly!
Varya good going. Was “planning” to visit your site from a looooooooooong time. Just today managed it. I am sure Devi gonna love many of your stuff. All the best, dear one!
Whoa, I am really sorry about the phone Varya. That’s terrible way to travel – always assuming that everyone is a potential thief. YIKES. I’m really glad nothing else was stolen though.
Wow, you are giving your children an amazing experience! Russia, Finland…Awesome!
[…] probably remember me participating in Screen-Free Week just a little while ago. So why am I writing in favour of the screen time while trying to make […]
It is very hot here today, so it is really nice to read your post and imagine climbing up in the cool mountains! And what gorgeous views! I love the idea of the kids being able to run around and not worry about cars.
What fun! This weekend I was scrubbing some well used plastic bins outside, with the help of the grandkids, and once they were clean I filled them up with the hose and each child sat in a bin up to their chins in water giggling! I grabbed some cups for filling and pouring, and they had so much fun. The towels they dried off with became impromptu housing. Once they start with creative play, things just seem to flow.
I really enjoyed reading your posts! I am a third grade teacher from Florence, Alabama. I am interested in creating learning activities that focus on the Russian culture and the Winter 2014 Olympics. I also want to travel to Russia.
Hi Andrea, thank you for your comment and interest!
Most of the tips would be on safety. It isn’t too hard travelling in Russia however you will have language barrier. So buying your tickets ahead of time is the best as well as perhaps learning few phrases like “I need help” or “I’m sick” just in case of emergency. If you are travelling by train, try taking the lower berth and under no condition accept drinks from strangers, especially alcoholic!
If you really need someone who can speak at least some English, in the city/town aim for schools and colleges/universities that teach English – a teacher or a student will always be there who could speak some English. You may want to do your homework on these establishments before hand. Russians like meeting foreigners, so there will be some curious kids following you around.
You will find the food quite familiar to your tastes, though we do have lots of soups and salads which are full meals on their own!
You asked about the most fascinating landmark. I would not be able to pinpoint one for you. If you like museums and history, you might want to stay around Western part of Russia and visit so-called Golden Ring (a number of cities whose history dates back to pre-Christianity: Tula, Novgorod etc). St. Petersburg is a great place to visit.
If you are a fan of beautiful landscapes, then Siberia it is, and most of all – Baikal region. There is a vast variety of Taiga forest and regular forest. Beautiful lakes and rivers, and, of course, the Bailak Lake. I was born in that region (Buryat region) and I often miss the landscape.
If you have more questions, you are welcome to e-mail me to xiao (dot) artists (at) gmail (dot) com
This dish looks very interesting, but somehow bean dishes just get no reception from my picky eater and her father 🙂 It’s so interesting that your husband grew up in Africa, it must be very different from how you grew up…
Ah, picky eaters are so different everywhere!!! I guess I have to thank my MIL for introducing beans and lentils to mine. The little one though eats about anything.
what I find really funny here is that even as an adult I loved to do finger painting from time to time haha While it can be a lot of fun, it is not necessarily the kind of art you want to hang in your living room though 😛
Wow – you made the whole dish from scratch! I love humus, but I am yet to convince my family to give it a chance 🙂 Love the pictures of your little helper!
WOW, I love love love hummus. Thanks so much for the recipe. I didn’t realize it had sesame seeds. My son is allergic (as they often go with peanut allergies). Too bad, all for me 🙂
I love spreading hummus on anything – or having it in a salad.
Yum, pinning!
Oh, you should link this up on our Mommy MOnday Blog hop. yes yes yes! I will put the link in the website portion. I am pinning this to that board – as well as a muticultural cuisine board.
They were all delicious! We like going to Holiday Inn as most if the 4-5 star hotels have up to 50% discount on baked goodies at the lobby coffee shop.
Wow, good for you! That must be hard to do, but it helps to have such great results. So sorry to hear that you had been having these health problems but glad you are getting some relief! I use homeopathy, and it has really worked well for me.
Thank you!!! It wasn’t hard in a physical sense – I can go off coffee any time. However I just miss it.
I agree – homeopathy is great and I love how it has no side effects!
[…] Creative World of Varya Dad’s the Way I Like It MommyMaestra SpanglishBaby For the Love of Spanish Spanish Playground the piri-piri lexicon Expat Life with a Double Buggy Kids Yoga Stories MarocMama All Done Monkey […]
Painting is a great way to spend quality time together! For us it was always reading and talking about books. I guess this is why I have such a bookworm 🙂
The word herbarium definitely brought back memories from my school days 🙂 We did some leaf preservation last year with modge podge, and also tried contact paper. Laminating them worked rather well for us, we still have a couple of laminated place mats.
I know all about bringing back the memories!!! I was looking for a better word but leaf preservation sounded not quite right. And yes, this is all from my school and kindergarten memories. Did you also do totn paper art?
It looks like Miss A is a wonderful big sister! When daughter was young, my husband focused more on “gentle touch” for objects, and she is pretty careful and gentle for her age.
My son finds great joy in exploring the world while dressed in all kinds of outfits. I let him. And, I am amazed at how other people find something in common with him as he dresses in his outfits. Kids are awesome! Thanks for sharing at Magic Moments Monday!
I think it is a great substitute!!! We don’t have Halloween trick-or-treating here but if did – playdough, stickers and healthy snacks would be our choice!
[…] Varya wrote a wonderful post in favour of screen time for children, and why it could be benefitial to their development if done correctly. Rather than being organized by medium or language, Varya very cleverly lists her media tools by the benefits they have: character development and family values, staying fit or language development! And you have probably never associated these benefits with screen time, right? But if done correctly, media can have a huge positive impact on children’s life- read Varya’s post on The Creative World of Varya! […]
I made up treat bags this year with Halloween-themed items like spider rings, crayons, and erasers. Each bag had only one piece of candy in it. I’ve already bought glow sticks for next year’s Halloween which got rave reviews last year.
[…] have previously posted some pictures of Zhuhai during our Backyard Barbecue Hop and when I wrote a guest post for Mama Smiles on Exploring Geography Series so you are welcome to […]
What a beautiful neighborhood! The whole table of Dim Sum makes me hungry. The night view of Fox Island and Macau is pretty and it reminds of Hong Kong. It feels like a very relaxing community and great for the little ones.
I love this series and have been looking forward to seeing a neighborhood in China! Looks like a lovely area! And like Amanda, that Dim Sum looks delicious 🙂
Thank you! Our neighbourhood is more or less typical for bigger cities in China. And since Zhuhai is relatively new city (it used to be a fishing village around 30 years ago) there isn’t much traditional architecture which you can see in older cities.
Thank you! Schools here are huge because the population is big. My daughter’s kindergarten has over 400 children, in each class 30-40 children. Schools have 40+-60 students. In this particular school there must be 500-600 students.
It was so lovely to get a peek at your neighborhood! I really like how much green space is incorporated into the city and that Dim Sum looks delicious!
Happy happy birthday, dear! You are such a special person. So glad to have gotten to know you better this past year. Looking forward to another wonderful year ahead! You have lots to look forward to 😉
[…] Do you celebrate Christmas? How do you celebrate it? I’ve written earlier that we don’t really celebrate Christmas but we love Christmas Gawking! As ESL teachers, we do of course teach our children about Christmas and make Christmas activities. Last year we made Hand-printed Christmas Tree, and this year – Christmas Lanterns. […]
Great post, Varya! I love your choices and will have to do these with my daughter! When I have more time, I’ll definitely be perusing the blog hop. I wish you an amazing new year filled with many memories and blessings!
[…] 13. Don’t be afraid to use media (TV programs, cartoons, movies, radio) to help your child learn: they DO learn and pick up faster. Just remember moderation! I have vaguely covered this topic before in my post Top 10 Ways to Utilize Screen Time for Learning. […]
[…] and use environmental print to help them remember. With younger babies you can collect and make herbariums, seashells, rocks, bring them home and use to make collages with […]
I love this idea, Varya! Thank you for coming out of your blogger break to share this. I often think about how I can help Hapa Baby understand thoughtfulness. I would like her to understand how much thought and care goes into the things we (and others) do for her. When she’s old enough, I would love to do these heartlings, but will start by trying to explain to her why she should eat the things I’ve made in a loving way instead of just shaking my head and giving up (like I do sometimes).
I often try to tell her,” Hapa Baby, you’re making mommy sad. Please don’t do that. You are hurting mommy’s feelings.” Sometimes it helps and she says,” Mommy sad?’
Thank you again, Varya! I’m looking forward to see more posts!
Thank you for stopping by! Encouraging virtues development isn’t an easy task, it requires a looot of patience (which I myself often lack hah!). But as parents we try to find new ways. I hope this activity will help you in some ways!!!
I definitely think it will. I find that lately I need more patience and i would like to be more encouraging of my daughter. She’s hit her terrible twos and is a lot more difficult (her mother’s temper and her father’s stubbornness, yikes)! So I’d really like to do something to help her improve her development 🙂
[…] Creative World of Varya Dad’s the Way I Like It MommyMaestra SpanglishBaby For the Love of Spanish Spanish Playground the piri-piri lexicon Expat Life with a Double Buggy Kids Yoga Stories MarocMama All Done Monkey […]
[…] often made in a form of Pilau (a recipe from Kitchen Counter Chronicles). You can try making these Kenya Inspired Beans from yours truly and there is a recipe for chapatis in there! Dry Potato and Peak Sak from […]
[…] by that? Look at the collage today with creative painting and craft activities from Varya at Creative World of Varya. Creativity is just simple painting. Creativity is also exploring coloring with salt, painting […]
[…] how I would imagine my French breakfast! If you want something faster and easier to make, then this French Omelet recipe from yours truly is the way to […]
[…] breakfast and especially enjoy an oat porridge in winter to keep warm. You could try this recipe of New Zealand Pikelets by yours truly (and learn what Pikelets […]
[…] restaurant close by and the tea is always delicious there, and now, seeing Varya’s recipe on Creative World Of Varya- I know why! Love the idea of adding orange peel to the […]
Hello,
I recently discovered your blog and am really enjoying it. I’m a mother and an early childhood educator and am always looking for new and creative ideas.
I came across your blog as I was researching Zhuhai. My family and I will be moving there this summer for my husbands work and I’ve been trying to prepare myself for life abroad with a toddler. Do you have any tips or advice for life with children in Zhuhai? I really enjoyed the piece about your neighbourhood. The playground looks really nice.
Thanks,
Ilona
[…] introducing our neighbourhoods to you. There have already been features from Russia, Japan, China, France, and loads of others. You can find all of the information about this series through The […]
What a great find! I would love to read this to my daughter. Thanks for sharing. Please join us with your book posts every 1st and 3rd Wednesdays at Kidlit Bloghop at my website or through any of the hostesses links. I had a great time reading this review, and would love for other fellow boggers/ kidlit lovers to get to read them 🙂
-Reshama @ Stackingbooks
This is so fun to see what everyone carries in their diaper bags! Thanks for including mine 🙂 And you’re right – it’s sounds like you’d need a big bag to carry all that you do. I’m impressed to hear that it’s small!
[…] we are getting ready to celebrate the Festival of Ridvan , I thought this year I’ll share a simple printable card you can use to give to friends. It […]
These 100 ways are indeed good and I’m delighted to learn these ways. To encourage others I’ll certainly utilize these ways and thanks a lot for great contribution.
[…] to our Second Annual Backyard Barbecue Blog Hop! (Check out our First Annual Backyard Barbecue Blog Hop!) I am so excited to be joining with my blogger friends to create a collection of fabulous ideas for […]
It is SO HARD to pack with a curious and active toddler- but at least you ave “helpers:)!! I used to try and get as much done as I could while they were napping- good luck Varya!!! 🙂
[…] you have read before, we moved to a new apartment. While this building is much newer than the one we used to live in, it seems it has a piping problem […]
Oh moving with a toddler is hard (I did it with twin toddlers) but packing while pregnant must be horrible!
Your recipe sounds great though… thanks for sharing!
Thank you Varya for your post about your cool family, loved reading it!! and also for your helpful advice on cultural identity, I will keep it for the future as our daughter is only 11 months. Our family also believes that culture should be introduced in a natural way, daily (e.g. listening to music from our countries to relax, read books in our languages,etc), this way we as parents are not forcing and everyone enjoys. So far we made a family tree and thinking of doing a genetic test for our daughter, maybe we will find something interesting, who knows:) https://www.23andme.com/ancestry/
How interesting! I know someone who had DNA test done with ancestry.com or some other website. She was quite surprised at the outcome. I am sure if we did the DNA test we would find out much more about ourselves but for now we just go with what we were told. Thank you for stopping by!
You definitely have a global family! Your children will go far with their background and your loving support! You’re doing a wonderful job of raising them to be appreciative of everyone!
[…] Toys for Preschoolers ~ Top 10 Preschool Building Toys ~ Top Ten Building Toys For Preschoolers ~ Top 10 Building Toys From Our Childhood ~ Gifts for Future Female […]
[…] 10 Gifts to Encourage Pretend Play for Preschoolers ~ Top 10 Pretend Play Toys for Preschoolers ~ Top 10 Pretend Play Toys in Our House ~ Top 10 Preschool Pretend Play Toys ~ Top Ten Pretend Play Toys For […]
[…] the Creative World of Varya you will find 100 ways to encourage foreign language learning whether you speak the language you would like to introduce, or not. Varya is very encouraging and […]
This is a really great lesson. The activities build on each other so well, and are wonderfully concrete and fun!
I do understand that certain lessons are so important that they should be done in a child’s dominant language, and this certainly qualifies as one of those. I have to mention though that it also would be a wonderful lesson to repeat in a second language. 🙂 It would reinforce the concepts (more practice showing/choosing love is always good!) and there is lots of built-in repetition of vocabulary.
Thanks for a wonderful post!
Hi, very happy to come across this post. I am currently looking at employment in Zhuhai, I was wondering if Expat children are able to attend local primary schools there? It seems to be that International schools are unaffordable! Do your children attend local schools or do you know anyones who has children in a local school public or experimental?
Hi Janis! I emailed you directly. So please check and see and also check your spam folder in case it went there. It should be from Varya CWOV! Thank you for stopping by.
This is just beautiful! What a wonderful family tradition. You are right that it is so easy to get caught up in chores, etc and not really spend that quality one-on-one time with our kids.
Thank you so much for hosting my guest post Varya:). Just last night I took the boys for a super-noche to have frozen yogurt and to talk about soccer. I love these special times with my kiddos.
[…] an increasing number of inquiries from expat families planning to move to China, in particular to Zhuhai, where we currently reside. I have also been told I should write a bit more about our hands […]
My name is Amanda Roberts and I am the author of the blog Two Americans in China. I found your blog and contact information through Expats Blog. I am the author of Crazy Dumplings, a fun food fusion cookbook that was funded through Kickstarter. My dream, though, is to write a cookbook written specifically for expats about how to cook foods and dishes from their home country in their new adopted country using ingredients that can be found locally. However, I know my experience in China isn’t the same as everyone else’s, so I thought it would be a good idea to reach out to other China expat bloggers and ask about their experiences. I would love to hear about your experiences cooking abroad. Please click the following link to take my survey. https://www.surveymonkey.com/s/3DKT52R (Works best if using Google Chrome.) I will include a link to the blog of everyone who responds and helps me out in the book.
Thank you so much for your assistance, and I look forward to hearing from you!
Thanks for having me over, Varya! I’ll be very interested to hear if anyone has any thoughts, suggestions or info on how to treat new parents. I guess you’re now moving through that initial newborn stage, so hope you’re feeling a bit more rested these days!
Dear Varya, Happy to know that you have started such a wonderful site for services. You are very talented and I’m sure will succeed in all areas of your interests. Hugs
Wow, I don’t think I’d have been able to cope with a NICU ward where I couldn’t see my baby. T was in Neonatal for 6.5 weeks, and left 5 weeks earlier than expected. From a germ perspective, I can understand it, but because of China’s more ‘traditional’ beliefs, I’d have thought skin-to-skin care would be important over medical intervention.
It’s interesting how different places work. Here in Northern Ireland you’re not supposed to eat or drink while in labour ‘just in case’ you need a c-section (the rates here are incrediabley high at 25%). Whereas in Regina, Canada (where I’m from), you can order a pizza, etc., and have it delivered right to your room.
It’s always interesting to see how different places do things differently, each place has it’s own perspective – even among different hospitals a few miles from each other. Thanks for sharing with us!
Great tips, especially number six 🙂 Something I tested this week is getting the baby tired, probably wouldn’t work with a newborn but my 6-month-old will sleep magical 8 hours at a piece (and tops it off with another 3) if I do two long walks during the day and let her power herself out by playing.
Thank you for contribution, Ilze, and thank you for more tips! Yes, it does work for some older children – it worked great when I was weaning my older one. But sometimes it also means they might get overly tired and have a meltdown – had it both ways.
I appreciated most (or still do…) when somebody brought me premade food (you can draw your conclusions about my cooking here 😉 I just chocked people at work wondering why God/evolution/whateveronebelieves in made such a huge error and made people want to eat several times a day). The casserole is fine. A bowl full of fresh fruit. And yes, food can be ordered online, but when grandma or somebody else does it, it tastes better because there is love in the action. Especially when somebody pops in with your favourite cheese that they just I might like.
But there will also be the aww’s and the cute little body suits or socks that will never stay on a newborn. And then there will be those that are “giving you space to settle to your new life situation”.
What a lot of hoops and stress on a new mom! I’m so glad it wasn’t difficult to get our childrens’ births registered, and their passports were straight-forward. It may have been different though if they’d needed visas for the UK.
[…] have mentioned in the previous post on surviving sleepless nights with a newborn that his sleeping pattern were not at all mommy-sleep-friendly. So I have been tired and sleepy, […]
That’s a great list, and some good ways to save some money and improve quality, also. I’m sure women in your area will be learning a lot from your series.
Hi, Varya!
Thanks for your blog and all the information you’ve shared. I believe I heard a lot about you through our mutual acquaintances for you and your family are really famous amongst the Zhuhai expats. ((((:
As for myself, I am almost half-way through my first ever pregnancy (a single mom to be) and I am thinking of having my baby here, in China. I am pretty frightened, to be honest, but thanks to your blog I now have a clearer vision of what lies ahead.
I am happy there are good people like you who are willing to provide help and advice to the clueless folk like myself!
[…] Done Monkey The Squishable Baby Creative World of Varya Discovering The World Through My Son’s Eyes Twin Falls Mommy In The Playroom Slow Family […]
[…] Creative World of Varya MommyMaestra SpanglishBaby For the Love of Spanish Spanish Playground the piri-piri lexicon Expat Life with a Double Buggy Kids Yoga Stories MarocMama All Done Monkey […]
[…] in their memory and make their multicultural and multilingual experience much more interesting! We don’t really celebrate Christmas but as a part of cultural exposure this is a great resource for families like ours or for ESL […]
[…] ~ Top 10 Lists: Puzzles for under 3 year olds ~ Games Recommendations for Brainy Kids ~ Top 10 Games and Puzzles on Our Shelf ~ Top 10 Board Games and Puzzles for Preschoolers ~ Top 10 Games For Preschoolers~ Top 10 Preschool […]
[…] sugar.” Varya, a former coffee addict, did the unthinkable and stopped drinking coffee! Read all about it! She still loves the smell of coffee, though, and goes to Starbucks in China where she lives to get […]
[…] Breakfast – Peanut Butter Toast for daddy and older daughter, bits of toast for our toddler, and butter & jam toast for me. Since I don’t drink coffee for health issues, adults drink black tea or milk tea, and children drink water or whole milk. Snack – crackers and fruit Lunch – our variation of dhal (lentil gravy), rice, garden salad with simple olive oil dressing Afternoon tea and snack – cookies Dinner – left-overs from lunch plus an omelet […]
[…] Breakfast – cereal and milk for our older daughter and toddler, toast with butter & cheese for mommy and daddy, tea for adults and water for kids. Snack – yogurt and crackers Lunch – beans, rice and green salad Snack – no-egg muffins Dinner – leftovers from lunch plus hummus and chapati […]
Thank you Varya for your review of Enough of Frankie Already! 🙂 Bullying is a huge issue here in the States and it was important for me to tackle this issue in a way that hasn’t been done here and that was from the perspective of children of color. Also, Enough of Frankie Already! gives the perspective of the actual bully; and this is unheard of in bullying situations here.
[…] year several bloggers from Multicultural Kid Blogs Community have again gathered to commemorate Asia-Pacific American Heritage Month. While some of us don’t live in the US or not from there, we either have an Asian-Pacific […]
[…] Varya blogs at CreativeWorldofVarya.com about creativity, craft, parenting, cooking for kids and with kids, moral education, spirituality and multiculturalism. She is a mom of 3 and an early education expert.Read about other play ideas written by Varya: Plastic Box Play and Ten Simple Toddler Activities. […]
This is such a wonderful story. My daughter may be travelling to China soon, and often speaks on the phone with people there as part of her job. I’m going to give her this link. Thanks so much!
Love this series, and agree that a sense of adventure is a huge asset, wherever you live! You can travel the world but never really explore (just stick to what is familiar), or on the other hand you may not be able to travel but you can still meet people and experience cultures from all parts of the world! It’s all about having that curiosity and desire to explore. Wonderful resources!
[…] excited to take part in this series, the ABC of Raising Global Citizens. It will run from June 1st to June 26th and there will be a post for each letter of the alphabet. […]
[…] glad to be part of the series the ABC of Raising Global Citizens. It started 1st and will continue to June 26th 20015 and there will be a post for each letter of […]
[…] In these Series 24 bloggers of Multicultural Kid Blogs Community got together to share ideas and tips on Raising Global Citizens. Follow us from June 1st to June 26th as we share a letter of the alphabet and an idea associated with it over at Raising Global Citizen Series page! […]
[…] In this series, 24 bloggers of Multicultural Kid Blogs Community got together to share ideas and tips on Raising Global Citizens. Follow us from June 1st to June 26th as we share a letter of the alphabet and an idea associated with it over at Raising Global Citizen Series page! […]
[…] I’m glad to be part of the series the ABC of Raising Global Citizens. It started 1st and will continue to June 26th 2015 and there will be a post for each letter of the alphabet. The Creative World of Varya kicked off the series with a wonderful post, “A is for Adventure”. […]
This looks so incredibly tasty – I love that it’s also semi-educational to make in that it’s spreading multicultural awareness 😉
Thanks so much for participating in this series!
[…] your child to art skills, like painting and drawing, is very important. You can read about Four Things to Remember when Raising an Artist on my blog; this was actually one of my first blog […]
[…] Life with Subtitles on Multicultural Kid Blogs Creative World of Varya European Mama Kid World Citizen All Done Monkey the piri-piri lexicon La Cité des Vents […]
[…] Life with Subtitles on Multicultural Kid Blogs Creative World of Varya European Mama Kid World Citizen All Done Monkey the piri-piri lexicon La Cité des Vents […]
[…] Crazy Little Family Adventure Russian Step by Step for Children Ketchup Moms Peakle Pie Hanna Cheda Creative World of Varya Tales from the Waygook […]
[…] This post represents letter “W” for the A to Z of Raising Global Citizens series organized by my friend Varya. 24 bloggers from the Multicultural Kid Blogs Community got together for this series in order to share ideas and tips on Raising Global Citizens. Follow the entire series, with one post for each letter of the alphabet, at Varya’s Raising Global Citizen Series page! […]
[…] Breakfast – Peanut Butter Toast for daddy and older daughter, bits of toast for our toddler, and butter & jam toast for me. Since I don’t drink coffee for health issues, adults drink black tea or milk tea, and children drink water or whole milk. Snack – crackers and fruit Lunch – our variation of dhal (lentil gravy), rice, garden salad with simple olive oil dressing Afternoon tea and snack – cookies Dinner – left-overs from lunch plus an omelet […]
[…] mommy and daddy, tea for adults and water for kids. Snack – yogurt and crackers Lunch – beans, rice and green salad Snack – no-egg muffins Dinner – leftovers from lunch plus hummus […]
[…] drink water or whole milk. Snack – yogurt or flavoured milk Lunch – turmeric chicken, Persian rice and garden salad Snack – fruit Dinner – leftovers from lunch plus steamed corn on the […]
I was wondering how much Chineses decorate for Christmas… Seeing all those beautiful trees, I’m thinking that I was just in time this year for mine (I finished it a half hour before now). oh and Thanks for the mention!
[…] Ornament My Bright Firefly – Paper and Bean Angel Ornament Creative World of Varya – Play Dough and Paper Plate Ornament Cutting Tiny Bites – Pine Cone Ornaments Messy Little Monster – Salt Dough Photo Frame […]
These look like fabulous books! The first one would be perfect for my ESL students because it includes culture, US landscape, etc. The other 2 are right up the alley of my 11 year old son- he loves those types of action/adventure books:).
What an interesting range of diverse books you reviewed! I’m glad that Miss T is such a great reader and enjoyed the poetry book! Thanks so much for joining us for Multicultural Children’s Book Day and for your great post!
You have some great goals for February. Revisiting old posts and improving the content is a good idea–and something I should probably add to my to-do list too.
I’m glad to have discovered your blog via the Link UP!
Thank you Varya! It is always a pleasure to work with you and I have really enjoyed starting this series with you! Cannot wait to see what the future brings 🙂
I love posts where you can learn more about the blogger behind the blog! Thanks for sharing more about Helen (and I’m going to have to check out these blogging buddy program – sounds awesome!)
I gave a letter to Miss D during each of her last 3 birthdays. They make her very emotional & reading you I felt the same. Kind of touched deep and it is something like you are bit carried away, bit confused about your strength and capabilities at certain places and justifies your fears from future with a “mere human” excuse 🙂
Excellent write dear, I think you should complete the sentence “Don’t let yourselves fall into the trap of inferiority” with the keyword “complex”?
My daughters are also growing up in a multi-cultural environment and the saddest thing is the multi-cultural thing is within the large Indian community in this country. However hard we try, it is very difficult to get closer to the other communities here due to reservations, classifications and religious differences. I think I’m at a hopeless situation of life with this particular!
Да, Мирру можно использовать. Но из более дешевых масел можно начать пользоваться чайным деревом. Возможно его будет достаточно. Также хорошие результаты дает использование яблочный уксус.
Sarmad
I loved chalk as a kid. Still do! It’s so easy to write and draw with, and it’s perfectly safe. 🙂
Elika Mahony
Hi dear Varya! I’m glad Tessa is playing with playdough. I’m sorry you can’t find the tartar powder! I shall have to give you some the next time I see you. Lovely to see these photos of Tessa!
Perfect Stranger
Thank you for your comments and welcome 🙂
I often research online different activities to do in my classes and with my daughter. I share back 🙂
Sarmad
My gorgeous, talented wife. 🙂
Perfect Stranger
Oh and remember to adjust the amount of water so the paint is neither too thick, nor watery!
Leanna
Ooh, I remember doing this as a child! I used to love it. Thanks for posting, I can’t wait to try this with my son!
Perfect Stranger
Thank you! I am glad you found something you like! You are welcome to share some of your own experiences and I can post you as a guest writer 🙂
Frances Evans
Hi there! I’m part of your group on Facebook! Looking forward to you hosting the December Blogging Carnival. 🙂
Perfect Stranger
Hi Frances, thank you for stopping by! Love your blog!
maryanne
I am so sorry to hear about your loss of your sister. I am glad your mother can keep her memory alive for her children.
Perfect Stranger
Thank you, MaryAnne. I’m grateful to my mother for that as well!!
Leanna @ Alldonemonkey
I have been meaning to come back and comment on this post for a while now. I am so sorry to hear about your sister. My sister and I are incredibly close, so I can’t imagine what that would be like to lose her. It’s especially hard to hear about her young children, but as Maryanne said, it’s great to hear that your mother is keeping her memory alive. Thank you for sharing.
Perfect Stranger
Thank you. I wish you and your sister and your families lots of happy moments together!!!
maryanne
How fascinating! I hope to visit China someday, and would love to see this festival in person.
Leanna @ Alldonemonkey
I love this! You are right that there are other posts about this festival, but this one really gives us a flavor of what it is like to be in China during this holiday. Thank you for sharing!
Perfect Stranger
Thank you, MaryAnne! I hope to do visit some time soon!
Perfect Stranger
I’m glad you enjoyed it, Leanna! It really is different when you are in the atmosphere.
Leanna @ Alldonemonkey
Love this idea! Easy for kids to do, and beautiful, too!
Perfect Stranger
Thank you! Glad you liked it – cutting and rolling in glitter is fun!
Melissa Kemendo
I can’t believe I’ve gone my entire life without knowing about moon cakes. They sound delicious! I imagine the whole festival must be a magical thing to experience. Thanks for giving us a glimpse!
Perfect Stranger
It’s more like a never ending moon cake swapping and they are EVERYWHERE. Even Starbucks has their own made. So does Haagen Dazs has amazing ice cream moon cakes (YUMMY!). If you have a China Town near by or a Chinese restaurant you can ask them next year around this season.
Valerie @ Glittering Muffins
Very cute!
Perfect Stranger
Glad you like it, Valerie!
Frances Evans
Ahhhh what a great idea!!! I think I’m going to buy me some glitter. 🙂 Thanks for sharing!
Perfect Stranger
Thank you! Hope you enjoy being covered with glitter! My daughter didn’t want to wash the glitter off her hands – so much enjoyed it!
Mud Hut Mama
I thoroughly enjoyed this post – especially learning about all the different versions of the legend. That moon cake looks delicious. So interesting to read about the rabbit and the moon – there is a hare in the moon folktale in Zambia (where my husband is from).
Perfect Stranger
How fascinating, Jody! More reasons to be assured that the world indeed is but one country – the folktales are similar in different parts!
MaryAnne MamaSmilesblog
What a success! I love when my kids enjoy creative activities like this!
MaryAnne MamaSmilesblog
this is a fun idea – I could see my little ones really enjoying it!
Perfect Stranger
Thank you! btw, the new settings still require moderation. I’m checking to see what I can do to have those who commented earlier post comments without approval.
MaryAnne MamaSmilesblog
I love that you do this with your daughter – and that design is quite pretty!
Varya
Thank you! I plan on teaching her more designs. She has a Rapunzel doll with long hair that allows making different designs, so she’s been engaged with that a lot too!
Mud Hut Mama
I love this post – what a beautiful way to spend your Mother/Daughter outings! Sounds like you daughter has had a hectic time of it this past year – I hope she continues to recover well.
Varya
Thank you for good wishes! We, moms, try our best to keep our children happy and stress free!
Mud Hut Mama
Those are pretty incredible displays – I would be gawking too!
Varya
They are beautiful, aren’t they?
maryanne @ mama smiles
Thanks for including our post!
Varya
You are welcome! I love reading your blog!
maryanne @ mama smiles
Children do make wonderful abstract artists, and I love all the tips you shared here of ways they can create art from a very young age!
Varya
Thank you! Glad you liked them!
maryanne @ mama smiles
These sound delicious!
Varya
They were!!! 😀
Melissa
These are great ideas! Annabelle just found a couple of old toothbrushes that I use for cleaning and was very interested in them. I can only imagine how excited she’ll be if I offer them to her with some paint!
Varya
Thank you! I am sure she’ll enjoy playing with the toothbrushes. My daughter can use just about anything. I also didn’t mention it in the post, but cars, trucks, blocks, beads – whatever you can easily wash and are not afraid to get in paint – will also do well!
Amanda @MissPandaChinese
Happy New Year! Wishing you a healthy, happy, and wonderful 2013!
Cordelia Newlin de Rojas
Hiya, just wanted to say lovely blog! And would it be cheeky of me to ask you to point me towards any particular posts you might have about helping un-block toddlers to paint? Not sure what sort of guidelines to give or not. My little one sometimes is very free and other times gets extremely frustrated that she can’t make things look the way she wants.
I wish you had a like button, I’d be liking posts all over the place on your site by the way 😉
coco
Varya
Thank you so much, Cordelia! I can say the same about your blog as I enjoy reading your posts!
Since I haven’t been posting much, I only have 2 major posts dedicated to this subject Abstract Painting (http://littleartists.blog.com/2012/12/29/abstract-painting/) and Four Things to Remember when Raising a Little Artist (http://littleartists.blog.com/2010/05/09/four-things-to-remember-when-raising-an-artist/).
Frustration about perfection is a part of growing up. In her case she is probably trying to express through painting/drawing what she can’t express verbally. It also helps children unwind and if she is overly frustrated about not being able to do it “right”, she might be undergoing some emotional turmoil of her own. I should really write more on this subject as I have some really great observations and discoveries based on the painting/drawing process I watched and how children react to that. If you see the things are heating up, offer her a choice to stop and switch the activity. If she is not ready to do that or gets more frustrated, offer to help her. My daughter used to do that and I would just offer to finish up for her and later she would just ask me to help her if she was getting at the stage where she felt she couldn’t do it or simply ran out of patience 🙂
Try different approaches and see what works for you – all children are different, after all!
Thank you again for stopping by! Let me know how it goes!
maryanne @ mama smiles
I love laminating dried plants for my kids – makes it so easy for them to enjoy them without worrying about ruining them!
Varya
We don’t have a laminator so I used a clear file a few times and just taped the open side.
maryanne @ mama smiles
We did this over the summer, and my kids loved it! So simple and pretty!
Varya
Yes, I loved your post about it!!!
maryanne @ mama smiles
Oh, and just realized you linked over to me. Thank you!!!
Varya
Yes, I did! I googled for it and your post came up in a search :))
Elika
I love collecting rose petals and leaves and drying them. I recently brought back some leaves from Bahji that I found on the path to the Shrines. I have dried them so that I can write prayers on them and give them as gifts. Kept you all in my prayers too. 🙂
Varya
That’s so sweet, dear! Thank you! I would love to see how you write prayers on them! You need to post about it on your blog! What a marvellous idea!
Frances
Thanks for such a great post! I save everything and anything that I can because I don’t want to trash it. 🙂 Now I have to see how am I going to upcycle what I have.
Varya
Looking forward to your ideas!!!
Mud Hut Mama
So simple and so cute. My girls love tearing and cutting paper and then pasting it but I never thought to give them an outline. That would make it a little more challenging. It might also be fun to make it a color by number.
Varya
It is fun! I remember from my kindergarten days how we used to tear out shapes and make a whole picture out of it. This is the strongest memory about the kindergarten craft I have. Looking forward to reading what they come up with!!!
Elika
Thanks for sharing this dear Varya! I love that the lyrics and the music inspired Tessa to want to learn it. I would love to hear her sing it. And how wonderful that you recorded it in Russian. I’m so happy that it can touch many people’s lives in different languages.
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Frances
Hi Varya! Stopping by from your annual linky party! This is a great post, and a must to do with little one, especially on these cold winter days! Thanks for sharing!
Leanna @ Alldonemonkey
What great ideas! I especially love your reminder that our children learn loving behavior from watching us. Plus, I think it makes kids feel secure when they see an affectionate relationship between their parents. Happy Valentine’s Day!
Varya
Thank you! I hope we are passing on the loving vibes to our children and they grow up affectionate and passionate 🙂 Happy Valentine’s Day to you too!
Leanna @ Alldonemonkey
Lovely post! It is amazing how different pregnancies can be. Both of mine were easy, but the first time I was very anxious after having gone through two miscarriages. The second was much more relaxed, but because of caring full-time for my toddler, I had difficulty fitting in regular exercise or any sort of “me” time – something I still struggle with now! Still, our baby also seems to be a much better sleeper than his older brother, so hopefully things will even out soon!
Varya
I realized that having an older child is actually a bit more helpful, to me that is. With how our spirited Miss T was before 3 and before 2 it would be really hard to manage pregnancy and her. However, I am sure I would adjust! One really good point of having children close to each other is that they at some point start playing together really well as their interests as more or less similar after the 2nd one crosses 1 year of age. Either way, I am glad things worked out for you and me as they did!!!
maryanne @ mama smiles
I finally got your comment field to work! This is such a sweet post, and your daughter definitely knows how to show that she loves her mother!
Varya
I’m glad it is working for you!
Thank you! Children come up with all sorts of things at this age!
Varya
Hi Kristen! Sorry, your comment went to my spam folder! I will check out your blog and would love to link up! Thank you for stopping by!
Crystal
Great idea! As we send gifts to family overseas we tend to send some for Christmas and birthdays at the same time. My sister had her gift on the mantle for 3 months last year just enjoying the artistry of the gift wrap! Good idea on how to cover up the joins between the paper, too! Thank you for sharing!
Varya
Welcome! I always feel so sad when I have to throw some drawings away. But there really isn’t place to keep all of them! So we try and recycle/upcycle them as much as we can.
Crystal
Lots of great ideas for painting 🙂 I should get the finger paints out again soon. We haven’t tried straw painting-we’ll have to try it outside when the weather warms up! And you’re right, every picture tells a story.
Varya
Thank you! Painting is something of a must in our house so we keep paints in close reach!
Crystal
I really enjoyed this post! I had a small carrier for our son that was handed down from my sister. Then later we invested in a big long wrap that both my husband and I could wear, and it was so handy for going through airports! It was a bit cumbersome, however, so my mom was great and made a ring sling for us when my daughter was born, and we also had use of a pouch sling. For the first 6 months this is all I used while my son was in a stroller. I haven’t used it in quite a while, but may get it out again. Mom also made a small matching one for using with the dolls and both my children have enjoyed that. Babywearing is becoming more common in Northern Ireland, which is nice to see 🙂 Enjoy!
Varya
I’m glad you enjoyed babywearing as much as I did. Isn’t it great when family doesn’t only support but helps with making slings?
Leanna @ Alldonemonkey
Oh, love it! I am going to have to try this!
Varya
Thank you! I like simple cooking with broccoli and cauliflower and try to add some variations to it (potatoes, this time ham, carrots…). Let me know if Mr T liked it!
Crystal
What a fun craft, I love it!
Varya
Thank you! Glad you liked it!
Crystal
With a few exceptions it sounds like our pregnancies were similar. It’s always interesting to hear of other experiences. Your thought list is very logical, and it’s nice to have it all in one place. Thanks for sharing something that is so personal.
Varya
Thank you for your kind comment. Where I am there are no pregnancy and new mothers support groups. So I had to figure out a lot of things by myself. Also, people’s ideas about pregnancy and PPT are very different from the “West”. I hope someone finds my experience helpful at least in the regard of not being alone out there and doing more research and getting the right information!
Lisa Nelson
I just love this activity. It’s easy – it’s fun. Plus, there is a lot of learning going on. Love it!
Learning through play is definitely the to go. It really works, it’s amazing!
What a great way to teach your children English. I don’t think classroom settings do even half as much!
Varya
Thank you! I am glad you enjoyed reading about it :-))
Leanna @ Alldonemonkey
Mmm! Sounds wonderful! Thanks for sharing at the Culture Swapper!
Varya
Welcome! I hope I could participate some day in exchange as well!
Lisa Nelson
I have never done sponge painting, but it looks like it’s really super fun.
In April, I’m going to do an all about paint series, and I think we will incorporate this project into that series.
Thank you so much for the idea!
Varya
Sounds like fun! Let me know so I could link up!
Lisa Nelson
These cookies look fantastic! Thanks for the recipe.
Also, thanks for giving me the opportunity to link-up the only recipe I’ve done on my blog! Haha!
Varya
Thank you! Glad you could link up!
Lisa Nelson
I love this article. What great suggestions! I like when you say, lead by example. That is the absolute best way to teach our children. You can say anything you want – but when they see you doing it – then it really clicks.
I also like how you divide up the younger children and the other children . I also believe that the older children should do some chores around the house – but they are children after all. After the chores are done, they should be allowed to play and explore.
Varya
I’m glad you like it. I never claim to have the answers to anything – after all, we, parents, are also learning as the children grown. These are my thoughts, ideas and personal experience (what is working or worked for us when teaching virtues to our child) that I share. If you have some tips as well or would like to write a guest post – you are mostly welcome! Thank you for reading and commenting!
Valerie @ Glittering Muffins
Those look good! Thanks for participating 🙂
Varya
Thank you! Glad to be a part of it!!!
Lisa Nelson
I love reading posts from the group cause I learn so much. Thanks for the reminder!
Varya
I am glad you liked it! Next Carnival is coming on Spring Traditions (hosted by Becky @ kidworldcitizen.com) – you should totally participate!
Lisa Nelson
Actually, I never knew what Baha’i was. Thanks so much for the information. In college I heard a lot about the activities but never thought to ask.
It’s funny, isn’t it?
Varya
We learn something new everyday, all of us!!!
Lisa Nelson
What a great spring craft! I’m pinning it!
Thanks so much for sharing!
Varya
Thanks to Leanna! 😀
Lisa Nelson
This is excellent! Unfortunately, I’m not crafty in this way :(. But I do enjoy reading and copying crafts from very creative people like you.
This looks to be so fun and also doable for my team here! Thanks for this!
Varya
Thank you! I hope your team loves making the craft! Let me know!
Valerie @ Glittering Muffins
Cute! Thanks for sharing 🙂
Varya
It was so relevant and totally unexpected!
Crystal
Great ideas for a simple item, love it! We have done almost all of these at one time or another, but you never realise how many things they add up to!
We have used a handkerchief tied up to the end of a stick or small pole to make a ‘hobo’ packet. We’ve also used it as a ‘furoshiki’, the Japanese way to wrap it around your lunch box for transport, then you have a place mat to use when you unwrap your lunch.
Varya
Such cool ideas!!! thank you for sharing!
Lisa Nelson
Cool! This isn’t something that I have even thought of. I love the imaginary play!
Thanks for sharing!
Varya
Thank you for reading!!!
Yuliya
awww, Varya, beautiful!!! Congratulations on anniversary!!!
admin
Thank you, Yuliya! Fun times, huh? 😀
Leanna @ Alldonemonkey
Varya, what a beautiful story! How lovely that you fell in love after meeting so many years earlier. And you look absolutely gorgeous! What a lovely event to celebrate every year 🙂
admin
Thank you, Leanna!!!
Leanna @ Alldonemonkey
Love these! They are so creative! My son and I recently used a towel to make a superhero cape. He was thrilled, and I loved that he could get such pleasure out of something so simple yet fun.
Varya
Glad you had so much fun!!! Simplest things bring so much joy to our little ones 🙂
Mary Catherine
Oh Varya,what a lovely story and beautiful wedding pictures! Thanks for sharing this with us. 🙂
Varya
Thank you, dear Mary!
Leanna @ Alldonemonkey
Oh, I love this! It looks like it was so much fun to do! It is hard to find projects like these that are easy for little ones but still come out looking great. Thanks for linking up to the Creative Kids Culture Blog Hop!
Leanna @ Alldonemonkey
How fun! It is difficult to find something little ones will enjoy making and eating, but it looks like you found a winner!
Welcome to Our Walk Through the Ridvan Garden! | All Done Monkey
[…] We kick off this series with a post from Varya of Creative World of Varya, who introduces us to the Ridván festival. […]
Crystal
It looks great! Now you have me wanting a milkshake and omelette (which my husband makes very well!) Keep up the great work exploring cultures!
Varya
Thank you! Time for your hubby to get to the kitchen ha ha
Crystal
These look so pretty. I will remember them for the children to make next spring 🙂
Crystal
We love pierogies, too! My husband had never tasted them before we made them, and now they’re one of his favourites! My favourite is potato and cheddar cheese. Perhaps we’ll try some carrot ones, they sound tasty and colourful 🙂
Varya
Oh, yes! I love potato with cheese but plain potato is great too!
Crystal
I love these, how personal! Thanks for sharing!
Varya
Thank you! My daughter still keeps the bag on her art wall!
Leanna @ Alldonemonkey
You have been featured at the Creative Kids Culture Blog Hop! Hope you can link up again this month! http://alldonemonkey.com/2013/04/21/creative-kids-culture-hop-3/
Varya
Thanks so much! I will try to link asap!
A Festival for All Peoples: Ridvan Around the World | All Done Monkey
[…] the festival of Ridván with our local Bahá’í community. As described in this beautiful introductory post from Creative World of Varya, Ridván commemorates the time when Bahá’u'lláh, the […]
Mary Catherine
I agree with you — incorporating crafts and other activities is a great idea with your English lessons. I’m excited to hear/read more about how this is going. And the Rainbow cloud turned out cute. 🙂
Varya
Thank you!
maryanne @ mama smiles
This is very cute! And yes, I definitely remember that nursery rhyme!
The Ridvan Garden: Felt Board » All Done Monkey | All Done Monkey
[…] the next stop in our series “Walking Through the Garden of Ridván.” So far we have set up a Ridván tent, looked at how families around the world celebrate the holiday, sampled a scrumptious rose water […]
Walking Through The Garden of Ridvan: Hospitality | Creative World Of Varya
[…] You can find the recipes here. […]
Leanna @ Alldonemonkey
This is so lovely! Hospitality is something really important to teach children, but it is often overlooked. Thank you for this wonderful post!
Varya
Thank you. Hospitality was always a big part of my growing up and it is now. We like receiving guests and we teach our children to embrace everyone!
Valerie @ Glittering Muffins
Looks yummy! So glad she liked it and had fun cooking with mommy 🙂 Thanks for participating again.
Varya
Thank you! It is always fun!
Mary Catherine
What a wonderful idea to experience cultures around the world each month! Food and crafts are definitely great ways for kids to connect to other places. This looked delicious. 🙂
Varya
Thank you! It is a fun project to participate in!
Rachel
Thanks Varya!! I love that you and your kids found a new way to play with something you had around the home! Perfect! Thanks so much for sharing in our 100 Days of Play. Your post has been linked and shared!
Varya
thank you! It is always fun to participate! Looking forward to more!
Mary Catherine
Varya, this is a hit with my son, the kids I babysit, and my preschool students! It’s boxes or laundry baskets over here. So glad you shared this for the 100 Days of Play!
Walking Through the Garden of Ridvan: A Look Back » All Done Monkey | All Done Monkey
[…] set up a Ridván tent, learned about celebrations around the world, and sampled rose water […]
maryanne @ mama smiles
This is wonderful! Kids don’t need much to have a wonderful time!
Screen-Free Week Confessions | Creative World Of Varya
[…] the Screen-Free Week has come to an […]
Leanna @ Alldonemonkey
Glad it was such a useful experiment for you! Unfortunately my son gets quite a bit more screen time, especially now that we have a baby and sometimes it is the easiest way to keep him occupied. I am trying now to put in place a schedule, since otherwise it is too easy to just say, Okay, just one more video!
Varya
I know exactly how you feel! It was the same for us first few months. Also, your T is so fewer unsupervised activities can be offered. I felt guilty when A was born sbout a lot if screen time fir T but I just tried to give her to watch more educational programmes.
maryanne @ mama smiles
This is so cute!
Varya
Thank you!
Leanna @ Alldonemonkey
What fun! I remember being mesmerized by the gymnasts when I was little, too! They were so graceful. That must have been so much fun to play with the ribbons with the girls. I am sure I would have been rejected for being too tall as well!
Play around the world
[…] China – Gymnast Ribbon Play […]
Parvina
Dear Varya,
I just love your blog. You are doing such a wonderful job and most of all you enjoying it.
I wish you to prosper and keep up the good job.
You are a lovely parents I’ve witnesssed myself.
Love you both very dearly!
Varya
Awwww, you are so kind, my dear Parvina. Thank you. Much love to you all!
Motherhood: Celebrating the Difference | Inspired By Familia
[…] Creative World of Vayra – To Be a Mother […]
raj
Varya good going. Was “planning” to visit your site from a looooooooooong time. Just today managed it. I am sure Devi gonna love many of your stuff. All the best, dear one!
raj
Varya
Thank you, dear Raj! I hope you find some useful for Devi activities here!
Kat
Hooray for Frog Puppets! I’m going to have to make one of these for DD! She LOVES puppets!
Varya
Glad you liked it! Let me know what her reaction was!
Lisa Nelson
Whoa, I am really sorry about the phone Varya. That’s terrible way to travel – always assuming that everyone is a potential thief. YIKES. I’m really glad nothing else was stolen though.
Wow, you are giving your children an amazing experience! Russia, Finland…Awesome!
I can’t wait to see your around the world post!
Varya
Thank you! It’s ok – with the phone it was my own fault, should have been more careful!
Lisa Nelson
Wow, I will take a look at all the blogs. Thanks so much for sharing!
Varya
Welcome!!
Mary Catherine
I just love this! Food can be such a great way into learning more about other cultures. Thanks for sharing this with us. :):
Varya
Indeed it is! Thank you for stopping by!
Becky
I love the story behind the recipe! 🙂 Thank you so much for sharing!
Varya
Welcome! I never knew the story myself till now!
Kat
This looks delicious! I’m gonna try it! 🙂
Varya
Let me know how it came out – I am sure Chelsea would love to know as well!
Top 10 Ways to Utilize Screen Time for Learning | Creative World Of Varya
[…] probably remember me participating in Screen-Free Week just a little while ago. So why am I writing in favour of the screen time while trying to make […]
School's Out: A Top 10 Series by KBN
[…] Utilize Screen Time for Learning | Creative World of Varya […]
Leanna @ Alldonemonkey
It is very hot here today, so it is really nice to read your post and imagine climbing up in the cool mountains! And what gorgeous views! I love the idea of the kids being able to run around and not worry about cars.
Becky
This looks delicious- and your daughter definitely enjoyed it:).
Valerie @Glittering Muffins
Love the story too and your daughter seems to really enjoy it 🙂 Thanks for participating again!
Varya
Thank you! I was so happy that I could related more to the cuisine this time.
Elizabeth
What fun! This weekend I was scrubbing some well used plastic bins outside, with the help of the grandkids, and once they were clean I filled them up with the hose and each child sat in a bin up to their chins in water giggling! I grabbed some cups for filling and pouring, and they had so much fun. The towels they dried off with became impromptu housing. Once they start with creative play, things just seem to flow.
Varya
Sounds like you and the grandkids had a wonderful time! We don’t have a backyard so we can’t play with water much, just at the beach 🙂
maryanne @ mama smiles
I think the scavenger hunt is amazing!
Varya
Yes, it is fun! First time to participate in an online one!
Andrea Elledge
I really enjoyed reading your posts! I am a third grade teacher from Florence, Alabama. I am interested in creating learning activities that focus on the Russian culture and the Winter 2014 Olympics. I also want to travel to Russia.
What tips do you have for me as tourist?
Thanks!
Andrea Elledge
Varya
Hi Andrea, thank you for your comment and interest!
Most of the tips would be on safety. It isn’t too hard travelling in Russia however you will have language barrier. So buying your tickets ahead of time is the best as well as perhaps learning few phrases like “I need help” or “I’m sick” just in case of emergency. If you are travelling by train, try taking the lower berth and under no condition accept drinks from strangers, especially alcoholic!
If you really need someone who can speak at least some English, in the city/town aim for schools and colleges/universities that teach English – a teacher or a student will always be there who could speak some English. You may want to do your homework on these establishments before hand. Russians like meeting foreigners, so there will be some curious kids following you around.
You will find the food quite familiar to your tastes, though we do have lots of soups and salads which are full meals on their own!
You asked about the most fascinating landmark. I would not be able to pinpoint one for you. If you like museums and history, you might want to stay around Western part of Russia and visit so-called Golden Ring (a number of cities whose history dates back to pre-Christianity: Tula, Novgorod etc). St. Petersburg is a great place to visit.
If you are a fan of beautiful landscapes, then Siberia it is, and most of all – Baikal region. There is a vast variety of Taiga forest and regular forest. Beautiful lakes and rivers, and, of course, the Bailak Lake. I was born in that region (Buryat region) and I often miss the landscape.
If you have more questions, you are welcome to e-mail me to xiao (dot) artists (at) gmail (dot) com
Andrea Elledge
In your opinion, what is the most fascinating geographical landmark in Russia?
Yuliya
Go Varya Go!!!! your creativity has no boundries 😉
Crystal
Congratulations!! You will do a superb job 🙂 I just consulted one today with regards to a medication I was prescribed. Good luck!
Varya
Thank you, dear Crystal! Did I miss the announcement? Or it is before the time?
Leanna @ Alldonemonkey
So cute! What a fun activity 🙂
Varya
It was really fun!
Leanna @ Alldonemonkey
Congratulations! You will be great! And I adore this picture!!
Varya
Thank you, dear Leanna!
maryanne @ mama smiles
I love simple play ideas like this!
Varya
Simplicity is always fun!
Crystal
I love the pastel colours, they turned out great!
Varya
Thank you! It is the chalk we used I think – great soft colors
JDaniel4's Mom
This is a super cute idea! I have pinned it to my puppet board on Pinterest.
Varya
Thank you so much!
Leanna @ Alldonemonkey
Love this! So sweet!
Natalie F
This dish looks very interesting, but somehow bean dishes just get no reception from my picky eater and her father 🙂 It’s so interesting that your husband grew up in Africa, it must be very different from how you grew up…
Varya
Ah, picky eaters are so different everywhere!!! I guess I have to thank my MIL for introducing beans and lentils to mine. The little one though eats about anything.
An Abstract Artist
what I find really funny here is that even as an adult I loved to do finger painting from time to time haha While it can be a lot of fun, it is not necessarily the kind of art you want to hang in your living room though 😛
Varya
Yes, it is a lot of fun! I do put my children’s finger painting creations on the wall in the living room 😉
Valerie @Glittering Muffins
Happy this turned out so well 🙂 Thanks for participating again!
Natalie F
Wow – you made the whole dish from scratch! I love humus, but I am yet to convince my family to give it a chance 🙂 Love the pictures of your little helper!
Varya @ CWOV
Thank you! My daughters won’t eat it. So it’s just me and my husband
Lisa Nelson
WOW, I love love love hummus. Thanks so much for the recipe. I didn’t realize it had sesame seeds. My son is allergic (as they often go with peanut allergies). Too bad, all for me 🙂
I love spreading hummus on anything – or having it in a salad.
Yum, pinning!
Oh, you should link this up on our Mommy MOnday Blog hop. yes yes yes! I will put the link in the website portion. I am pinning this to that board – as well as a muticultural cuisine board.
Varya @ CWOV
You can absolutely do it without sesame paste, Lisa! It will still taste great!
Lisa Nelson
Can I have some too? That mini-pie looks delicious.
I don’t like tea, but I’ve been known to down a few hot chocolates!
Thanks for sharing.
Varya
They were all delicious! We like going to Holiday Inn as most if the 4-5 star hotels have up to 50% discount on baked goodies at the lobby coffee shop.
Valerie @Glittering Muffins
Wow, all from scratch, awesome! Cute “helper” 🙂 Thanks for participating again!
Varya
Thank you! Always a pleasure!
Leanna @ Alldonemonkey
Wow, good for you! That must be hard to do, but it helps to have such great results. So sorry to hear that you had been having these health problems but glad you are getting some relief! I use homeopathy, and it has really worked well for me.
Varya
Thank you!!! It wasn’t hard in a physical sense – I can go off coffee any time. However I just miss it.
I agree – homeopathy is great and I love how it has no side effects!
Natalie F
Coffee is one weakness that I cannot imagine giving up, but I am glad to hear that homeopathy and life without coffee work for you. Stay healthy!
Varya
Thank you, Natalie!!!
Kids Yoga Stories: Books to Teach Yoga to ChildrenRainforest Kids Yoga Birthday Party » Kids Yoga Stories: Books to Teach Yoga to Children
[…] Creative World of Varya Dad’s the Way I Like It MommyMaestra SpanglishBaby For the Love of Spanish Spanish Playground the piri-piri lexicon Expat Life with a Double Buggy Kids Yoga Stories MarocMama All Done Monkey […]
Natalie F
Yay us 🙂 Happy birthday to MKB!
Natalie F
I was wondering what pickelets were – now I know! Yes, my picky eater would eat them too. I also enjoy this blog hop and meeting new blog friends 🙂
Varya
Thank you! Yes, pancakes are so universal!
Sheila @ Pennies of Time
Music is so powerful! This is a great reminder. I don’t think I use music enough with my boys. Thanks for sharing at Magic Moments Monday!
Emma @ P is for Preschooler
This is a fun way to use play dough! I love the idea of covering it with contact paper after so you can hang it up!
Lisa Nelson
Awesome Varya. What a wonderful play activity. Thanks so much for sharing!
Varya
Thank you, Lisa!
Natalie F
I really like your playdoh collage idea! And linking my baking soda activity to this round-up 🙂
Varya
I am happy you liked it! I will check your baking soda activity as well!!
Leanna @ Alldonemonkey
Happy birthday, MKB! Thanks for all your hard work in making our birthday celebration such a success! You have been with us for the entire journey 🙂
Around the World in 12 Dishes- Egypt | Mermaids` Makings
[…] link up your Egyptian dish and/or craft in our linky HERE, we would love to see […]
Natalie F
Painting is a great way to spend quality time together! For us it was always reading and talking about books. I guess this is why I have such a bookworm 🙂
Valerie @Glittering Muffins
We LOVE pancakes, this would go over well here, we’ll have to try your recipe. Thanks for participating again 🙂
Varya
Pancakes are the best!!
Emma @ P is for Preschooler
What a wonderful experience for the both of you. It’s things like that she’s always going to remember 🙂
Varya
Thank you, Emma! It truly was!
Natalie F
This looks very yummy. I hear you on picky eaters!
Natalie F
The word herbarium definitely brought back memories from my school days 🙂 We did some leaf preservation last year with modge podge, and also tried contact paper. Laminating them worked rather well for us, we still have a couple of laminated place mats.
Varya
I know all about bringing back the memories!!! I was looking for a better word but leaf preservation sounded not quite right. And yes, this is all from my school and kindergarten memories. Did you also do totn paper art?
Crystal @ Crystal's Tiny Treasures
This recipe looks like something my family would enjoy, thank you for sharing!
Varya
Hi Crystal! I am glad you liked it! Let me know how it turns out
Natalie F
It looks like Miss A is a wonderful big sister! When daughter was young, my husband focused more on “gentle touch” for objects, and she is pretty careful and gentle for her age.
Pinkoddy
What a lovely idea – and they would be fantastic at Christmas.
Varya
Thank you!!!
Sheila @ Pennies of Time
Great rhyme and hand movement! I really enjoyed this post and am looking forward to catching up and following Virtue Wednesday!
Varya
Thank you, Sheila!! You are welcome to write something up for the series!
Sheila @ Pennies of Time
My son finds great joy in exploring the world while dressed in all kinds of outfits. I let him. And, I am amazed at how other people find something in common with him as he dresses in his outfits. Kids are awesome! Thanks for sharing at Magic Moments Monday!
Varya
Your son sounds like a very fun and outgoing boy!!! I bet he and Miss T (my older one) would very much get along!
Leanna @ Alldonemonkey
These are beautiful! Ours is still hanging on our wall!
Varya
And yours along with boys’s picture – above Tessa’s bed! Loved the exchange. Let’s do it again next year!
Mari
Great words, thank you forarticle! Children need our help.
Varya
Thank you for reading, Mari!
Natalie F
Lovely card! Happy birthday to Ms T!
Varya
Thank you!
Anna@The Measured Mom
They turned out beautifully! Thanks so much for sharing your lovely cards at the After School Linky.
Varya
Thank you for stopping by!
Chalk Fun Again and Kids Co-Op | Creative World Of Varya
[…] It’s the time for the weekly Kids Co-Op and I am back with a “blast from the past”- Chalk Fun! […]
maryanne @ mama smiles
We are handing out stickers instead of candy this year – hoping the kids like the alternative! We have done Play Doh in the past, also.
Varya
I think it is a great substitute!!! We don’t have Halloween trick-or-treating here but if did – playdough, stickers and healthy snacks would be our choice!
madrexilio
Hi, We don’t celebrate Halloween neither but I do agree with low sugar treats for kids. Thank you for sharing.
Varya
Thank you for stopping by, Madre!!!
October Multicultural Kids Blog Carnival: Multimedia for Multicultural Kids
[…] Varya wrote a wonderful post in favour of screen time for children, and why it could be benefitial to their development if done correctly. Rather than being organized by medium or language, Varya very cleverly lists her media tools by the benefits they have: character development and family values, staying fit or language development! And you have probably never associated these benefits with screen time, right? But if done correctly, media can have a huge positive impact on children’s life- read Varya’s post on The Creative World of Varya! […]
Barb @ A Life in Balance
I made up treat bags this year with Halloween-themed items like spider rings, crayons, and erasers. Each bag had only one piece of candy in it. I’ve already bought glow sticks for next year’s Halloween which got rave reviews last year.
Pinterest board: http://www.pinterest.com/alifeinbalance_/halloween/
Varya
Thank you for sharing, Barb!! I think your bags were really exciting! My 5 year old would take rings, crayons and erasers over candy any time!
Our Neighbourhood in Zhuhai {Show Me Your Neighbourhood Around The World} | Creative World Of Varya
[…] have previously posted some pictures of Zhuhai during our Backyard Barbecue Hop and when I wrote a guest post for Mama Smiles on Exploring Geography Series so you are welcome to […]
Varya
Thank you so much, Leanna! I just saw this comment – not sure how is that I missed it???!!!
Amanda
What a beautiful neighborhood! The whole table of Dim Sum makes me hungry. The night view of Fox Island and Macau is pretty and it reminds of Hong Kong. It feels like a very relaxing community and great for the little ones.
Varya
Thank you, Amanda! Zhuhai is a lovely place for the family!
Crystal @ Crystal's Tiny Treasures
I love this post, Varya! It’s so interesting to see different areas of the world. Thank you for sharing 🙂
Varya
Thank you! I like looking through pictures of different places as well!
Top 10 Holiday Lists: Games and Puzzles On Our Shelf | Creative World Of Varya
[…] Gymnast’s ribbon. This is not exactly a puzzle or a game but it is a fun tool to play with and we have tons of fun […]
Marie-Claude
I love this series and have been looking forward to seeing a neighborhood in China! Looks like a lovely area! And like Amanda, that Dim Sum looks delicious 🙂
Varya
Thank you! Our neighbourhood is more or less typical for bigger cities in China. And since Zhuhai is relatively new city (it used to be a fishing village around 30 years ago) there isn’t much traditional architecture which you can see in older cities.
Annabelle
Thanks for taking part Varya. Oh and I love the German style bakery!
Varya
Thank you! It was fun recreating our neighbourhood!
Abbi Gutierrez
Thanks for sharing. The Middle School is huge. I thought it was a hotel!
Varya
Thank you! Schools here are huge because the population is big. My daughter’s kindergarten has over 400 children, in each class 30-40 children. Schools have 40+-60 students. In this particular school there must be 500-600 students.
Jody
It was so lovely to get a peek at your neighborhood! I really like how much green space is incorporated into the city and that Dim Sum looks delicious!
Varya
Thank you! In all my years in China I noticed that Chinese are really good with greenery and designs and NO ONE pulls flowers or breaks trees.
Leanna @ Alldonemonkey
Happy happy birthday, dear! You are such a special person. So glad to have gotten to know you better this past year. Looking forward to another wonderful year ahead! You have lots to look forward to 😉
Varya
Thank you so much, dearest Leanna! I have exact same sentiments and I am really grateful to have you as my friend!
Alex
Great. I hav just added your button to my search website.
-Alex and Emma
maryanne @ mama smiles
These are pretty!
Valerie @Glittering Muffins
Looks interesting, we might just have to try it! Thanks for participating again 🙂
Jessica @ Play Trains!
These are really cool! I like how they can be used for different holidays, but look appropriately festive for all of them. Fun!
Varya
Thank you!
Valerie @Glittering Muffins
Love lanterns! Never thought of paper cups, thanks for sharing 🙂
Varya
Paper cups are great a great craft material! thank you!
Valerie @Glittering Muffins
Glad you had 2 happy eaters with this one 🙂
Thanks for participating again!
Varya
It is always fun to participate!
coming soon: 20 Days of a Kid-Made Christmas
[…] christmas lanterns – Creative World of Varya […]
Christmas In Different Land: Christmas Spirit In China | Creative World Of Varya
[…] Do you celebrate Christmas? How do you celebrate it? I’ve written earlier that we don’t really celebrate Christmas but we love Christmas Gawking! As ESL teachers, we do of course teach our children about Christmas and make Christmas activities. Last year we made Hand-printed Christmas Tree, and this year – Christmas Lanterns. […]
Natalie F
How interesting about Christmas in China. I had no idea that it is acknowledged and celebrated. Thanks for teaching us something new today!
Varya
Thank you! It is something quite new but becoming so popular!
Becky
I LOVE the kindergartener Santas! That is adorable! What a festive environment for Christmas!
Varya
Yes, they were absolutely adorable! Thank you for stopping by!
Leanna @ Alldonemonkey
What beautiful decorations! I agree with Natalie – I had no idea Christmas was celebrated so widely in China. What a festive atmosphere!
Varya
Thank you so much!
Amanda
How beautiful – I showed my kids these pictures and they were excited.
Varya
Thank you! Glad your children liked it!
Christmas In Different Lands - 2013 Edition - Multicultural Kid Blogs
[…] 13 – China by Varya at Creative World of […]
20 Days of Kid-Made Ornaments: fifty seven creations
[…] christmas lanterns – Creative World of Varya […]
{The Very Best Activities of 2013} | Creative World Of Varya
[…] Mother’s Day Flower and Lady Bird Craft […]
Kat
Great post, Varya! I love your choices and will have to do these with my daughter! When I have more time, I’ll definitely be perusing the blog hop. I wish you an amazing new year filled with many memories and blessings!
Leanna @ Alldonemonkey
So sweet! Love these moments 🙂
Varya
Thank you! Always great memories!
100 Ways to Encourage Foreign Language Learning | Creative World Of Varya
[…] 13. Don’t be afraid to use media (TV programs, cartoons, movies, radio) to help your child learn: they DO learn and pick up faster. Just remember moderation! I have vaguely covered this topic before in my post Top 10 Ways to Utilize Screen Time for Learning. […]
100 Ways to Encourage Foreign Language Learning | Creative World Of Varya
[…] and use environmental print to help them remember. With younger babies you can collect and make herbariums, seashells, rocks, bring them home and use to make collages with […]
Becky @ This Reading Mama
Wow! What an amazing list of resources and ideas! Thank you for much for participating in the 100th Day Blog Hop!
Varya
Thank you for stopping by!
Celebrate the 100th Day Blog Hop
[…] January 22: Creative World of Varya – 100 Ways to Encourage Foreign Language […]
Celebrate the 100th Day: It’s a Blog Hop! | No Doubt Learning
[…] Creative World of Varya – 100 Ways to Encourage Foreign Language Learning […]
kat
I love this idea, Varya! Thank you for coming out of your blogger break to share this. I often think about how I can help Hapa Baby understand thoughtfulness. I would like her to understand how much thought and care goes into the things we (and others) do for her. When she’s old enough, I would love to do these heartlings, but will start by trying to explain to her why she should eat the things I’ve made in a loving way instead of just shaking my head and giving up (like I do sometimes).
I often try to tell her,” Hapa Baby, you’re making mommy sad. Please don’t do that. You are hurting mommy’s feelings.” Sometimes it helps and she says,” Mommy sad?’
Thank you again, Varya! I’m looking forward to see more posts!
Varya
Thank you for stopping by! Encouraging virtues development isn’t an easy task, it requires a looot of patience (which I myself often lack hah!). But as parents we try to find new ways. I hope this activity will help you in some ways!!!
Kat
I definitely think it will. I find that lately I need more patience and i would like to be more encouraging of my daughter. She’s hit her terrible twos and is a lot more difficult (her mother’s temper and her father’s stubbornness, yikes)! So I’d really like to do something to help her improve her development 🙂
Varya
I can totally understand! Our TTs are already here ha ha I am sure you’ll soon be looking back and smiling about this time!
Jonathan
Wow, what a great list of ideas! Thanks for mention as well.
Varya
Most welcome! Thank you for sharing your links and ideas!
Celebrating Spring Festival in China
[…] – Christmas/CNY Lanterns Craft […]
Emma @ P is for Preschooler
I never realized all the fun things you could do with shells! I love the small worlds and the shell fossils. Great round-up!
Varya
Thank you, Emma! I am glad you found some inspiration here!!!
Leanna @ Alldonemonkey
Love it!
Varya
Thank you, dearest!
Mary Chikkala
Awesome Varya dear.
Varya
Thank you, dear Mary!
Scribble Doodle and Draw
What a great round up, now I know what to do with all my sea shells!
Varya
That’s great! I was myself surprised how many things could be done with them!
Nadia
Lovely collection! We just came from a seaside holiday and have lots of shells! Now I have a few ideas, thanks!
Varya
So glad you can use this roundup for your own creative ideas!
Virtue Wednesday: Love | Creative World Of Varya
[…] I would like to revisit last week’s activity on Heartlings and suggest it again as it really is a helpful reminder about love and […]
Multicultural Kid Blogs' Virtual Birthday Party and Giveaway! - Multicultural Kid Blogs
[…] Creative World of Varya Dad’s the Way I Like It MommyMaestra SpanglishBaby For the Love of Spanish Spanish Playground the piri-piri lexicon Expat Life with a Double Buggy Kids Yoga Stories MarocMama All Done Monkey […]
Valerie @Glittering Muffins
That sounds like a fun dish, thanks for participating again 🙂
Varya
Thank you for stopping by!
Ayyam-i-Ha Bingo and Giveaway! | All Done Monkey
[…] Creative World of Varya […]
Leanna @ Alldonemonkey
So excited for this giveaway! Thank you for all your work organizing it!
Varya
Thank YOU!!!
Ten Simple Toddler Activities | Creative World Of Varya
[…] Painting: sponge painting, finger painting, painting, painting, painting! Any toddler likes to get his/her hands dirty. If you want more fun […]
Ten Simple Toddler Activities | Creative World Of Varya
[…] 5. Salt dough and play dough – they never get out of fashion! Use small toys and objects to stick into the dough or make collages. […]
Hale
Thanks for sharing your ideas! The kids would love this. Cheers!
Varya
Thank you! I hope these will be useful to many!
Creative Tuesday: Collages for Love | Creative World Of Varya
[…] Now in our family we don’t celebrate Valentine’s. However, I take it as an opportunity to talk about the Virtue of Love. […]
Top Ten Games For Preschoolers
[…] Top 10 Games and Puzzles on Our Shelf from Creative World of Varya […]
Emma @ P is for Preschooler
These are beautiful – and a great way to love! Best of all, you can do these any time of the year! 🙂
Varya
Thank you very much!
Varya
Thank you!
Multicultural Meal Plan: Five Days in Five Countries {Creative World of Varya} - Multicultural Kid Blogs
[…] often made in a form of Pilau (a recipe from Kitchen Counter Chronicles). You can try making these Kenya Inspired Beans from yours truly and there is a recipe for chapatis in there! Dry Potato and Peak Sak from […]
Creative Painting And Craft Ideas { from Creative World of Varya }
[…] by that? Look at the collage today with creative painting and craft activities from Varya at Creative World of Varya. Creativity is just simple painting. Creativity is also exploring coloring with salt, painting […]
Carrie @ Crafty Moms Share
So cute and fun!! I love it! Thank you for sharing at Sharing Saturday!
Varya
Hi Carrie, sorry for such a late reply – it ended up among spam!!! Thank you for stopping by!
Multicultural Meal Plan: Five Days in Five Countries {Creative World of Varya} - Multicultural Kid Blogs
[…] how I would imagine my French breakfast! If you want something faster and easier to make, then this French Omelet recipe from yours truly is the way to […]
Multicultural Meal Plan: Five Days in Five Countries {Creative World of Varya} - Multicultural Kid Blogs
[…] breakfast and especially enjoy an oat porridge in winter to keep warm. You could try this recipe of New Zealand Pikelets by yours truly (and learn what Pikelets […]
Tea Around the World: The European Mama - Multicultural Kid Blogs
[…] restaurant close by and the tea is always delicious there, and now, seeing Varya’s recipe on Creative World Of Varya- I know why! Love the idea of adding orange peel to the […]
Ilona
Hello,
I recently discovered your blog and am really enjoying it. I’m a mother and an early childhood educator and am always looking for new and creative ideas.
I came across your blog as I was researching Zhuhai. My family and I will be moving there this summer for my husbands work and I’ve been trying to prepare myself for life abroad with a toddler. Do you have any tips or advice for life with children in Zhuhai? I really enjoyed the piece about your neighbourhood. The playground looks really nice.
Thanks,
Ilona
Varya
Hi Ilona! thank you for stopping by and exploring my blog! I emailed you in regard of your questions.
Sarmad Garmroud
Love it! 🙂
Varya
Thank you!
Neighbourhoods Around The World, Northern Ireland Style - Crystal's Tiny Treasures
[…] introducing our neighbourhoods to you. There have already been features from Russia, Japan, China, France, and loads of others. You can find all of the information about this series through The […]
Pleasantville Mom
This is a cute idea. I’m going to try making these cupcake liner flowers with my littlest one. Thanks for the great idea!
Varya
Thank you for your kind words and appreciations. I hope your little one enjoys this simple activity!!!
Reshama
What a great find! I would love to read this to my daughter. Thanks for sharing. Please join us with your book posts every 1st and 3rd Wednesdays at Kidlit Bloghop at my website or through any of the hostesses links. I had a great time reading this review, and would love for other fellow boggers/ kidlit lovers to get to read them 🙂
-Reshama @ Stackingbooks
Varya
Thank you for stopping by! I will do my best to try and join you!
Leanna @ Alldonemonkey
This is so fun to see what everyone carries in their diaper bags! Thanks for including mine 🙂 And you’re right – it’s sounds like you’d need a big bag to carry all that you do. I’m impressed to hear that it’s small!
Printable Ridvan Card | Creative World Of Varya
[…] we are getting ready to celebrate the Festival of Ridvan , I thought this year I’ll share a simple printable card you can use to give to friends. It […]
Leanna @ Alldonemonkey
This is beautiful!
Emma @ P is for Preschooler
LOL! Love this – because you can never have too many hats, right? 😉
Kenneth
These 100 ways are indeed good and I’m delighted to learn these ways. To encourage others I’ll certainly utilize these ways and thanks a lot for great contribution.
Packing, Cleaning and a Quick Dinner Recipe {Backyard BBQ Blog Hop} | Creative World Of Varya
[…] to our Second Annual Backyard Barbecue Blog Hop! (Check out our First Annual Backyard Barbecue Blog Hop!) I am so excited to be joining with my blogger friends to create a collection of fabulous ideas for […]
Emma Edwards
Cleaning is hard enough with toddler let alone packing. It’s like sweeping up leaves in a hurricane! What a yummy meal to finish with though.
Varya
Thank you! It wasn’t easy but we managed!
Leanna @ Alldonemonkey
You are amazing! I agree with Emma – go you! Love the recipe, too! Thanks for co-hosting again this year and good luck getting settled in!
Varya
Thank you so much!!!
Varya
Thank you! Wasn’t easy!
Becky
It is SO HARD to pack with a curious and active toddler- but at least you ave “helpers:)!! I used to try and get as much done as I could while they were napping- good luck Varya!!! 🙂
Varya
I do that too! But recently if my toddler naps – I literally pass out into a deep sleep as well ha ha
{Aromatherapy Series} Home Made Bathroom Freshener | Creative World Of Varya
[…] you have read before, we moved to a new apartment. While this building is much newer than the one we used to live in, it seems it has a piping problem […]
katepickle
Oh moving with a toddler is hard (I did it with twin toddlers) but packing while pregnant must be horrible!
Your recipe sounds great though… thanks for sharing!
Varya
It was hard, yes! But thankfully it is over!
Learning About Papua New Guinea - Multicultural Kid Blogs
[…] Traditional Papua New Guinean Food: How to Make Mumu […]
Anna Vinogradova
Thank you Varya for your post about your cool family, loved reading it!! and also for your helpful advice on cultural identity, I will keep it for the future as our daughter is only 11 months. Our family also believes that culture should be introduced in a natural way, daily (e.g. listening to music from our countries to relax, read books in our languages,etc), this way we as parents are not forcing and everyone enjoys. So far we made a family tree and thinking of doing a genetic test for our daughter, maybe we will find something interesting, who knows:) https://www.23andme.com/ancestry/
Varya
How interesting! I know someone who had DNA test done with ancestry.com or some other website. She was quite surprised at the outcome. I am sure if we did the DNA test we would find out much more about ourselves but for now we just go with what we were told. Thank you for stopping by!
Cooking With A New Baby: Creative World of Varya {Multicultural Meal Plan Mondays} - Multicultural Kid Blogs
[…] Kenya inspired beans – freezes well! […]
Crystal @ Crystal's Tiny Treasures
You definitely have a global family! Your children will go far with their background and your loving support! You’re doing a wonderful job of raising them to be appreciative of everyone!
Varya
Thank you! I hope they grow up to be decent human beings, free of prejudice of any sort.
Becky
This is a wonderful post that I think a lot of families can relate to. I love your tips on helping children to be comfortable with their identity.
Varya
Thank you! We can at least try to help them. I am sure at some point they can figure out and find their place in life.
Marie-Claude Leroux
Very interesting post – Great tips for helping children be comfortable with a multifaceted identity.
Varya
Thank you!
Ticia
I love recipes that don’t have to be exactly followed!
Varya
Thank you! I actually enjoy such recipes too!
Top 10 Building Toys for Toddlers | Stir The Wonder
[…] Toys for Preschoolers ~ Top 10 Preschool Building Toys ~ Top Ten Building Toys For Preschoolers ~ Top 10 Building Toys From Our Childhood ~ Gifts for Future Female […]
Top 10 Pretend Play Toys for Toddler Boys | Stir The Wonder
[…] 10 Gifts to Encourage Pretend Play for Preschoolers ~ Top 10 Pretend Play Toys for Preschoolers ~ Top 10 Pretend Play Toys in Our House ~ Top 10 Preschool Pretend Play Toys ~ Top Ten Pretend Play Toys For […]
Cooking With A New Baby: Creative World of Varya {Multicultural Meal Plan Mondays} - Multicultural Kid Blogs
[…] Lentil soup – freezes well! […]
Crystal @ Crystal's Tiny Treasures
Using Giselle’s yoga books for ESL is a great idea! Children always remember better when moving 😉
Good luck on the 30th!
Monolingual parents and bilingual children
[…] the Creative World of Varya you will find 100 ways to encourage foreign language learning whether you speak the language you would like to introduce, or not. Varya is very encouraging and […]
Giselle Shardlow - Kids Yoga Stories
What a lovely post – thanks for sharing you two!
Varya
Thank you for stopping by! I love the lesson too!
Jennifer Brunk
This is a really great lesson. The activities build on each other so well, and are wonderfully concrete and fun!
I do understand that certain lessons are so important that they should be done in a child’s dominant language, and this certainly qualifies as one of those. I have to mention though that it also would be a wonderful lesson to repeat in a second language. 🙂 It would reinforce the concepts (more practice showing/choosing love is always good!) and there is lots of built-in repetition of vocabulary.
Thanks for a wonderful post!
Varya
Thank you for stopping by! I like the idea of second language!
Bronwyn Joy
Love (heh – sorry) this lesson. Sounds like the kids were able to really engage with it – the first step towards cultivating the right behaviours!
(And congrats on your LO Varya – don’t think I’ve said yet.)
Varya
Thank you!
Lindsay
This is a great idea — I’ll try this with my daughter!
Varya
Thank you! Hope you have fun!
Varya
Thank you again for giving us a chance to read one of your books. And it was and is true pleasure!
janis
Hi, very happy to come across this post. I am currently looking at employment in Zhuhai, I was wondering if Expat children are able to attend local primary schools there? It seems to be that International schools are unaffordable! Do your children attend local schools or do you know anyones who has children in a local school public or experimental?
Varya
Hi Janis! I emailed you directly. So please check and see and also check your spam folder in case it went there. It should be from Varya CWOV! Thank you for stopping by.
Crystal @ Crystal's Tiny Treasures
I’ve heard of Anzac cookies, but I’e not tried them…yet! They sound very good!
Flo
Just did it with my son. Thank you Eolia !
Leanna @ Alldonemonkey
This is just beautiful! What a wonderful family tradition. You are right that it is so easy to get caught up in chores, etc and not really spend that quality one-on-one time with our kids.
Becky
Thank you so much for hosting my guest post Varya:). Just last night I took the boys for a super-noche to have frozen yogurt and to talk about soccer. I love these special times with my kiddos.
China 101: Tips And Experience Sharing {Intro} | Creative World Of Varya
[…] an increasing number of inquiries from expat families planning to move to China, in particular to Zhuhai, where we currently reside. I have also been told I should write a bit more about our hands […]
Crystal @ Crystal's Tiny Treasures
Happy Moon Festival! Have a great month!
Crystal @ Crystal's Tiny Treasures
This series is a great idea, Varya! I look forward to reading more about your experiences in China!
Varya
Thank you so much!
Varya
Thank you so much, dear Crystal! It’s been long overdue and a great way for me to celebrate my upcoming 14th China-versary!
Amanda Roberts
Hello,
My name is Amanda Roberts and I am the author of the blog Two Americans in China. I found your blog and contact information through Expats Blog. I am the author of Crazy Dumplings, a fun food fusion cookbook that was funded through Kickstarter. My dream, though, is to write a cookbook written specifically for expats about how to cook foods and dishes from their home country in their new adopted country using ingredients that can be found locally. However, I know my experience in China isn’t the same as everyone else’s, so I thought it would be a good idea to reach out to other China expat bloggers and ask about their experiences. I would love to hear about your experiences cooking abroad. Please click the following link to take my survey. https://www.surveymonkey.com/s/3DKT52R (Works best if using Google Chrome.) I will include a link to the blog of everyone who responds and helps me out in the book.
Thank you so much for your assistance, and I look forward to hearing from you!
Bronwyn Joy
Thanks for having me over, Varya! I’ll be very interested to hear if anyone has any thoughts, suggestions or info on how to treat new parents. I guess you’re now moving through that initial newborn stage, so hope you’re feeling a bit more rested these days!
Emma @ P is for Preschooler
I didn’t know that about cinnamon – I hope it keeps working for you! (And I love the bonus of it making the house smell so good!)
Varya
So far I havent had new ants! Just a couple of stranded ones.
Guiti Ravanbaksh
Dear Varya, Happy to know that you have started such a wonderful site for services. You are very talented and I’m sure will succeed in all areas of your interests. Hugs
Varya
Thank you so much, dearest Guiti, for such kind words and wishes!
Crystal @ Crystal's Tiny Treasures
Wow, I don’t think I’d have been able to cope with a NICU ward where I couldn’t see my baby. T was in Neonatal for 6.5 weeks, and left 5 weeks earlier than expected. From a germ perspective, I can understand it, but because of China’s more ‘traditional’ beliefs, I’d have thought skin-to-skin care would be important over medical intervention.
It’s interesting how different places work. Here in Northern Ireland you’re not supposed to eat or drink while in labour ‘just in case’ you need a c-section (the rates here are incrediabley high at 25%). Whereas in Regina, Canada (where I’m from), you can order a pizza, etc., and have it delivered right to your room.
It’s always interesting to see how different places do things differently, each place has it’s own perspective – even among different hospitals a few miles from each other. Thanks for sharing with us!
Ilze
Great tips, especially number six 🙂 Something I tested this week is getting the baby tired, probably wouldn’t work with a newborn but my 6-month-old will sleep magical 8 hours at a piece (and tops it off with another 3) if I do two long walks during the day and let her power herself out by playing.
Varya
Thank you for contribution, Ilze, and thank you for more tips! Yes, it does work for some older children – it worked great when I was weaning my older one. But sometimes it also means they might get overly tired and have a meltdown – had it both ways.
Vilma
I appreciated most (or still do…) when somebody brought me premade food (you can draw your conclusions about my cooking here 😉 I just chocked people at work wondering why God/evolution/whateveronebelieves in made such a huge error and made people want to eat several times a day). The casserole is fine. A bowl full of fresh fruit. And yes, food can be ordered online, but when grandma or somebody else does it, it tastes better because there is love in the action. Especially when somebody pops in with your favourite cheese that they just I might like.
But there will also be the aww’s and the cute little body suits or socks that will never stay on a newborn. And then there will be those that are “giving you space to settle to your new life situation”.
Varya
Thank you for stopping by! I agree – I really enjoyed how friends came with food which they put love and thought into!
Bronwyn Joy
Vima – next time you have a baby I’ll know just what to do! I’m glad you still like casseroles, at least. (Otherwise, baby socks.) 🙂
China 101: Giving Birth in Zhuhai Part 3 | Creative World Of Varya
[…] As I mentioned in Part 1 – you will not be allowed into the NICU ward for as long as the baby is there. There are some […]
Crystal @ Crystal's Tiny Treasures
What a lot of hoops and stress on a new mom! I’m so glad it wasn’t difficult to get our childrens’ births registered, and their passports were straight-forward. It may have been different though if they’d needed visas for the UK.
Baby Care Series: Mommy and Baby Blues – Coping Technique | Creative World Of Varya
[…] have mentioned in the previous post on surviving sleepless nights with a newborn that his sleeping pattern were not at all mommy-sleep-friendly. So I have been tired and sleepy, […]
Crystal @ Crystal's Tiny Treasures
That’s a great list, and some good ways to save some money and improve quality, also. I’m sure women in your area will be learning a lot from your series.
Cooking With A New Baby: Creative World of Varya {Multicultural Meal Plan Mondays} - Multicultural Kid BlogsMulticultural Kid Blogs
[…] rice or Persian rice (the latter if I had more time) […]
Eva Varga
What a wonderful collection of harvest-themed posts! I’m looking forward to reading them. Thank you for featuring mine! 🙂
Varya
Thank you for participating!
Leanna @ Alldonemonkey
Great reminder! And I love the tip about the plants.
Varya
Plants are simply amazing~!
Crystal @ Crystal's Tiny Treasures
We’re making this soup for at least the 10th time today! It’s delicious!
Varya
Glad to hear that!
Lena
Hi, Varya!
Thanks for your blog and all the information you’ve shared. I believe I heard a lot about you through our mutual acquaintances for you and your family are really famous amongst the Zhuhai expats. ((((:
As for myself, I am almost half-way through my first ever pregnancy (a single mom to be) and I am thinking of having my baby here, in China. I am pretty frightened, to be honest, but thanks to your blog I now have a clearer vision of what lies ahead.
I am happy there are good people like you who are willing to provide help and advice to the clueless folk like myself!
Varya
Thank you for your kind comment. I’m happy to hear my experience sharing is helpful.
Becky
This is so cute!!
Varya
Thank you!
ABCs of Creativity: Day 1 (A-E) | Creative World Of Varya
[…] Blocks […]
ABCs of Creativity: Day 2 (F-J) | Creative World Of Varya
[…] Four Things to Remember when Raising an Artist […]
ABCs of Creativity: Day 5 (U-Z) | Creative World Of Varya
[…] Window Drawing […]
DIY Project: How to Make a Backyard Play Tent | Adventure in a Box
[…] Done Monkey The Squishable Baby Creative World of Varya Discovering The World Through My Son’s Eyes Twin Falls Mommy In The Playroom Slow Family […]
Top 10 Best Building Toys {Tuesday Top 10 Holiday Lists}
[…] Top 10 Building Toys from Our Childhood by Creative World of Varya […]
Sarmad
Amazing! 🙂
A Moroccan Birthday Celebration for Multicultural Kid Blogs! - MarocMama
[…] Creative World of Varya MommyMaestra SpanglishBaby For the Love of Spanish Spanish Playground the piri-piri lexicon Expat Life with a Double Buggy Kids Yoga Stories MarocMama All Done Monkey […]
Leanna @ Alldonemonkey
Love this book! And wow, great photo of you! I had no idea you used to perform Indian dance!
Varya
We all have interesting talents and experiences. The book is great indeed.
Celebrate Christmas Around the World {Activity Pack Review} | Creative World Of Varya
[…] in their memory and make their multicultural and multilingual experience much more interesting! We don’t really celebrate Christmas but as a part of cultural exposure this is a great resource for families like ours or for ESL […]
Making Christmas Traditions in China | Creative World Of Varya
[…] have already written about Christmas in China and I have also mentioned that as Baha’is we don’t view Christmas the same way the […]
Leanna @ Alldonemonkey
So interesting to read how expats recreate traditions but also adapt to their new homes!
Varya
Thank you! It really is at times very special and unusual
Top 10 Games & Puzzles for 2-3 Year Olds - Stir The Wonder
[…] ~ Top 10 Lists: Puzzles for under 3 year olds ~ Games Recommendations for Brainy Kids ~ Top 10 Games and Puzzles on Our Shelf ~ Top 10 Board Games and Puzzles for Preschoolers ~ Top 10 Games For Preschoolers~ Top 10 Preschool […]
Coffee Around the World - Multicultural Kid Blogs
[…] sugar.” Varya, a former coffee addict, did the unthinkable and stopped drinking coffee! Read all about it! She still loves the smell of coffee, though, and goes to Starbucks in China where she lives to get […]
Fusion Meals For Picky Eaters {Multicultural Meal Plan Monday} - Multicultural Kid Blogs
[…] Breakfast – Peanut Butter Toast for daddy and older daughter, bits of toast for our toddler, and butter & jam toast for me. Since I don’t drink coffee for health issues, adults drink black tea or milk tea, and children drink water or whole milk. Snack – crackers and fruit Lunch – our variation of dhal (lentil gravy), rice, garden salad with simple olive oil dressing Afternoon tea and snack – cookies Dinner – left-overs from lunch plus an omelet […]
Fusion Meals For Picky Eaters {Multicultural Meal Plan Monday} - Multicultural Kid Blogs
[…] Breakfast – cereal and milk for our older daughter and toddler, toast with butter & cheese for mommy and daddy, tea for adults and water for kids. Snack – yogurt and crackers Lunch – beans, rice and green salad Snack – no-egg muffins Dinner – leftovers from lunch plus hummus and chapati […]
Mix and Match! Enjoy Chinese Green Onion Cakes Anytime! {Multicultural Meal Plan Mondays} - Multicultural Kid Blogs
[…] post has been shared at the Kids Co-op. by Amanda Hsiung […]
Best Post of 2014 on CWOV | Creative World Of Varya
[…] You can view the best post on CWOV for 2012 and the best post on CWOV for 2013! […]
Rubbery Marshmallow Play Dough - Therapy Fun Zone
[…] Baby Cereal Snow Dough | Creative World of Varya […]
DIY Heart Candle Gift - Red Ted Art's Blog : Red Ted Art's Blog
[…] Curly Hearts […]
DIY Heart Candle Gift - Red Ted Art's Blog : Red Ted Art's Blog
[…] Love Collages […]
Leanna @ Alldonemonkey
Wonderful resource! Thanks for including mine! Can’t wait to explore some new ones as well!
Varya
Most welcome!!! There are so many, so I tried to choose the ones that had the most followers!
Felicia Capers
Thank you Varya for your review of Enough of Frankie Already! 🙂 Bullying is a huge issue here in the States and it was important for me to tackle this issue in a way that hasn’t been done here and that was from the perspective of children of color. Also, Enough of Frankie Already! gives the perspective of the actual bully; and this is unheard of in bullying situations here.
Cheese Chinese Lanterns - Danya Banya
[…] Chinese New Year Card from Creative World of Varya […]
Felt Shape Sheep - Mama Smiles
[…] Chinese New Year Card from Creative World of Varya […]
Chinese Dragon Dance Craft ⋆ Study at Home Mama
[…] Chinese New Year Card from Creative World of Varya […]
Wool Painted Chinese Fan Craft - Crafts on Sea
[…] Chinese New Year Card from Creative World of Varya […]
Salt Painting Techniques
[…] It is done with stick glue and salt. You can read more about it in one of my previous posts. […]
Learning About Papua New Guinea - Multicultural Kid Blogs
[…] Mama Finding Dutchland Kid World Citizen Marie’s Pastiche All Done Monkey Tiny Tapping Toes Creative World of Varya Miss Panda […]
Louise
This looks fun!
Varya
Thank you!
Amy
How lovely!
Varya
Thank you!
Turning your kitchen into a play area
[…] She is a mom of 3 and an early education expert.Read about other play ideas written by Varya: Plastic Box Play and Ten Simple Toddler […]
Leanna @ Alldonemonkey
This looks like a great CD!
My China Story {Asian-Pacific American Heritage Month Blog Series}
[…] year several bloggers from Multicultural Kid Blogs Community have again gathered to commemorate Asia-Pacific American Heritage Month. While some of us don’t live in the US or not from there, we either have an Asian-Pacific […]
Leanna @ Alldonemonkey
It is fun to read about your China story! And I love that the one community had so many ties to your home in Russia!
Varya
Thank you! I enjoy how communities here have pretty much everything around them!
Turning your kitchen into a play area
[…] Varya blogs at CreativeWorldofVarya.com about creativity, craft, parenting, cooking for kids and with kids, moral education, spirituality and multiculturalism. She is a mom of 3 and an early education expert.Read about other play ideas written by Varya: Plastic Box Play and Ten Simple Toddler Activities. […]
Carolyn Wilhelm
This is such a wonderful story. My daughter may be travelling to China soon, and often speaks on the phone with people there as part of her job. I’m going to give her this link. Thanks so much!
Varya
I am sorry, I somehow missed this one! Yes, welcome to share and she is welcome to get in touch, if needed!
painting eXperiments {A to Z Raining Day Activities}
[…] – make finger paint […]
painting eXperiments {A to Z Raining Day Activities}
[…] involve various objects in painting, e.g. q-tips, roller […]
painting eXperiments {A to Z Raining Day Activities}
[…] – try painting with tempura paint […]
painting eXperiments {A to Z Raining Day Activities}
[…] – explore with salt painting […]
painting eXperiments {A to Z Raining Day Activities}
[…] paint on objects (seashells, rocks, […]
Leanna @ Alldonemonkey
Love this series, and agree that a sense of adventure is a huge asset, wherever you live! You can travel the world but never really explore (just stick to what is familiar), or on the other hand you may not be able to travel but you can still meet people and experience cultures from all parts of the world! It’s all about having that curiosity and desire to explore. Wonderful resources!
Varya
True! Can’t wait to read your post for the series!!!
C is for Combining Cultures: Raising Global Citizens
[…] excited to take part in this series, the ABC of Raising Global Citizens. It will run from June 1st to June 26th and there will be a post for each letter of the alphabet. […]
Raising a Global Citizen: K is for Kindness
[…] glad to be part of the series the ABC of Raising Global Citizens. It started 1st and will continue to June 26th 20015 and there will be a post for each letter of […]
Raising Global Citizens: R is for Religion! — Faith Seeker Kids
[…] so excited to be part of Raising Global Citizens A-Z, the wonderful brain-child of The Creative World of Varya. Each day, from June 1st -26th, […]
“S” is for Sports – The A to Z of Raising Global Citizens | World Languages for Toddlers & Children
[…] In these Series 24 bloggers of Multicultural Kid Blogs Community got together to share ideas and tips on Raising Global Citizens. Follow us from June 1st to June 26th as we share a letter of the alphabet and an idea associated with it over at Raising Global Citizen Series page! […]
V is for Vitality « Lisa Lewis, MD
[…] style=”color: #000080;”><a style=”color: #000080;” href=”http://www.creativeworldofvarya.com/a-z-of-raising-global-citizens/” target=”_blank”><img […]
Cultural Sensitivity, Xenophobia, and Ethnocentrism in Art Education - The Art Curator for Kids
[…] In this series, 24 bloggers of Multicultural Kid Blogs Community got together to share ideas and tips on Raising Global Citizens. Follow us from June 1st to June 26th as we share a letter of the alphabet and an idea associated with it over at Raising Global Citizen Series page! […]
Raising a Global Citizen: K is for Kindness
[…] I’m glad to be part of the series the ABC of Raising Global Citizens. It started 1st and will continue to June 26th 2015 and there will be a post for each letter of the alphabet. The Creative World of Varya kicked off the series with a wonderful post, “A is for Adventure”. […]
Kids Kitchen: Cheese Crackers ⋆ Study at Home Mama
[…] Today, as part of our 31 days of Kids Kitchen series, the Creative Life of Varya is sharing a Simple Iranian Dessert, Zoolbia Bambieh. […]
Jennifer Tammy
This looks so incredibly tasty – I love that it’s also semi-educational to make in that it’s spreading multicultural awareness 😉
Thanks so much for participating in this series!
Varya
Thank you, it was fun participating and cooking!
Impasto Painting with Kids - The Art Curator for Kids
[…] your child to art skills, like painting and drawing, is very important. You can read about Four Things to Remember when Raising an Artist on my blog; this was actually one of my first blog […]
Raising Multilingual Kids {Multicultural Kid Blogs Vlogging Telephone} - Multicultural Kid Blogs
[…] Life with Subtitles on Multicultural Kid Blogs Creative World of Varya European Mama Kid World Citizen All Done Monkey the piri-piri lexicon La Cité des Vents […]
Sarah Quezada
What a great story! Thanks for sharing your code switching experiences. I love how language activates that same part of the brain and surprises us!
Varya
Thank you for stopping by and watching!
What is the one obstacle on your language journey that you have managed to overcome? (MKB Vlogging Telephone Session on Raising Multilingual Kids) | Tales from the Waygook Mama
[…] Life with Subtitles on Multicultural Kid Blogs Creative World of Varya European Mama Kid World Citizen All Done Monkey the piri-piri lexicon La Cité des Vents […]
ABC Herbarium
[…] chose making a herbarium as my theme as we often pick up leaves and flowers and make craft with them or preserve them in […]
Creative Kids Culture Blog Hop #31 - Multicultural Kid Blogs
[…] Crazy Little Family Adventure Russian Step by Step for Children Ketchup Moms Peakle Pie Hanna Cheda Creative World of Varya Tales from the Waygook […]
10 Easy Ways to Raise Globally Conscious Children {W is for World} - Mama Smiles
[…] This post represents letter “W” for the A to Z of Raising Global Citizens series organized by my friend Varya. 24 bloggers from the Multicultural Kid Blogs Community got together for this series in order to share ideas and tips on Raising Global Citizens. Follow the entire series, with one post for each letter of the alphabet, at Varya’s Raising Global Citizen Series page! […]
Helen @ Peakle Pie
I’ve always wondered how you make masala chai! Thank you for a great Diwali post!
Varya
Welcome and thank you for stopping by!
Fusion Meals for Picky Eaters
[…] Breakfast – Peanut Butter Toast for daddy and older daughter, bits of toast for our toddler, and butter & jam toast for me. Since I don’t drink coffee for health issues, adults drink black tea or milk tea, and children drink water or whole milk. Snack – crackers and fruit Lunch – our variation of dhal (lentil gravy), rice, garden salad with simple olive oil dressing Afternoon tea and snack – cookies Dinner – left-overs from lunch plus an omelet […]
Fusion Meals for Picky Eaters
[…] mommy and daddy, tea for adults and water for kids. Snack – yogurt and crackers Lunch – beans, rice and green salad Snack – no-egg muffins Dinner – leftovers from lunch plus hummus […]
Fusion Meals for Picky Eaters
[…] drink water or whole milk. Snack – yogurt or flavoured milk Lunch – turmeric chicken, Persian rice and garden salad Snack – fruit Dinner – leftovers from lunch plus steamed corn on the […]
Fusion Meals for Picky Eaters
[…] – pancakes with strawberry, blueberry jam and orange marmalade Snack – fruit Lunch – homemade […]
Eolia
I was wondering how much Chineses decorate for Christmas… Seeing all those beautiful trees, I’m thinking that I was just in time this year for mine (I finished it a half hour before now). oh and Thanks for the mention!
Varya
Welcome! It is gorgeous here with all the decorations, and especially in Macau and HK where big Christian communities reside
Kid Made Felt Mouse Ornament
[…] Ornament My Bright Firefly – Paper and Bean Angel Ornament Creative World of Varya – Play Dough and Paper Plate Ornament Cutting Tiny Bites – Pine Cone Ornaments Messy Little Monster – Salt Dough Photo Frame […]
Melissa
Love the symbolism in the book – what a fun idea!!
Varya
Thank you! The books was quite interesting, though I couldn’t locate any info about it online!
10 Days of Kid-Made Ornaments - week two - Mama Miss
[…] World of Varya :: CHRISTMAS IN THE NEW HOUSE […]
Lauren
I’ve never heard of salt painting but it looks like fun.
Varya
It truly is!Thank you for stopping by!
Shannon
I’ve never done salt painting – that looks like fun!
Varya
Me neither, and this was our second (not last) time painting with salt!
Shelah
Your Salt Painting technique is fabulous!
Varya
Thank you! It was fun discovering different ways to paint with salt!
maryanne @ mama smiles
I really need to try salt painting with my kids.
Shannon
These are adorable and so easy to make! I love this idea 🙂
Varya
Thank you! I tried my best to make something that would involve my toddler. And it worked!
maryanne @ mama smiles
I love simple and fun activities like this!
Varya
Thank you! It was fun playing with these puppets!
Becky
These look like fabulous books! The first one would be perfect for my ESL students because it includes culture, US landscape, etc. The other 2 are right up the alley of my 11 year old son- he loves those types of action/adventure books:).
Varya
Ah, I am glad he would like them! And yes, I agree – the first one is definitely great for the ESL students!
pragmaticmom
What an interesting range of diverse books you reviewed! I’m glad that Miss T is such a great reader and enjoyed the poetry book! Thanks so much for joining us for Multicultural Children’s Book Day and for your great post!
Varya
Happy to join in! Yes, the range of books was quite interesting, as well, as I really enjoyed reading them!
Sarmad Garmroud
Love it! 🙂
maryanne @ mama smiles
I look forward to reading your ebooks!
Varya
Thank you! A lot of work but the results are always the most rewarding!
maryanne @ mama smiles
I didn’t know you were a musician! I would love to hear/see some of the songs you have composed.
Helen @ Peakle Pie
I love this monkey door hanger! Thank you for sharing and Happy New Year!
Leanna @ Alldonemonkey
This is beautiful!
kim
You have some great goals for February. Revisiting old posts and improving the content is a good idea–and something I should probably add to my to-do list too.
I’m glad to have discovered your blog via the Link UP!
Good luck with your goals!
Sarmad Garmroud
Love it! 🙂
Nadia
Lovely! Thanks for taking part in the series!
Helen @ Peakle Pie
Thank you Varya! It is always a pleasure to work with you and I have really enjoyed starting this series with you! Cannot wait to see what the future brings 🙂
Emma
I love posts where you can learn more about the blogger behind the blog! Thanks for sharing more about Helen (and I’m going to have to check out these blogging buddy program – sounds awesome!)
Nadia
Great idea! Thanks for participating in the series!
Suraj :)
Greetings lisa 🙂
I gave a letter to Miss D during each of her last 3 birthdays. They make her very emotional & reading you I felt the same. Kind of touched deep and it is something like you are bit carried away, bit confused about your strength and capabilities at certain places and justifies your fears from future with a “mere human” excuse 🙂
Excellent write dear, I think you should complete the sentence “Don’t let yourselves fall into the trap of inferiority” with the keyword “complex”?
My daughters are also growing up in a multi-cultural environment and the saddest thing is the multi-cultural thing is within the large Indian community in this country. However hard we try, it is very difficult to get closer to the other communities here due to reservations, classifications and religious differences. I think I’m at a hopeless situation of life with this particular!
Emma
Number 10 sounds like “fetch”, lol – and you’re right – my daughter used to love to play it, too!
Ezzy T
My Awesome friend you Rock so does your kids and husband I am very admirative of your family so happy you are part of my life <3 <3
Elina Sh
Как его применять при варикозе и для регуляции потоотделения?
Elina Sh
Можно ли использовать при лечении себорейного дерматита у мамы на гв и как?
Varya
Да, Мирру можно использовать. Но из более дешевых масел можно начать пользоваться чайным деревом. Возможно его будет достаточно. Также хорошие результаты дает использование яблочный уксус.