Mums The Word, Feb - March Edition

Issue 45 Feb/March 2008

Welcome to the latest issue of “Mum’s the Word”, a newsletter whose aim is to provide information on activities and resources in and around Doha, for parents with young children. “Mum’s the Word” currently reaches over 700 mums, … if you or your friends would like to receive a copy please email Katie at [email protected].

Special welcome to all those new Mums who have recently arrived in Qatar – we hope that you find “Mum’s the Word” a useful resource.

Please help us keep “Mums the Word” interesting and informative by contributing articles, recipes, craft ideas, general information for mums and any feedback. All ideas and offers of help are most welcome!

“Mum’s the Word” contacts are:
Katie Erasmus 4362938 [email protected]

NEW SINGING GROUP – “Vocality Doha”
We are currently seeking singers to join our newly formed singing group. This choir is for people who love to sing but don’t have any music reading skills. Songs from around the world, Pop and Folk music are all taught by ear and through the use of teaching CDs.
If you would like to come and sing for fun in a relaxed environment, please call Natalie on 5315682 or email [email protected] for more info.

NEW SCRAPBOOKING
I would love to start up a scrapbooking club for fellow moms who love to scrapbook, but (like me) may need the motivation of others to get some pages done.
I thought we could meet in the evening once a month to get inspired, get creative, meet new friends and share some coffee..and of course complete some great pages of our families..
Anyone interested please call Heidi 557-9218

Is anyone interested in a baby & toddler playgroup in the afternoon?
I am a working mom that would like to start-up a playgroup where we could meet in the afternoon for a few hours. We can meet at my home. (I live behind Ramada) To begin with I suggest that we meet every second Tuesday from 16.00 – 18.00.
If you are interested, please drop me an email on [email protected]
Regular Weekly What’s On:

NEW PEPKA YOGA STUDIOS - Yoga for kids, expectant mums, dads and everyone else. Classes everyday. Look at our website for further information - www.pepkayoga.com

Irish Society Mums and Kids to meet the first Tuesday of every month for a chat and a play. Fisrt meeting will be Tuesday 4th December 3.30pm at the Zoo. Looking forward to seeing you there.
Contact Michelle 5826234 / Katie 5449210 for any more details

Deutsche Kleinkindspielgruppe/German-speaking Toddler Playgroup Im/at the Intercontinental Hotel Doha’s Bay Club
For (future) German-Speaking babies and toddlers (age 0 to 3 years) of the German Community in Doha and their friends. Children of other nationalities are very welcome! Play on the grass, by the beach or in the plunge pool, depending on the weather and the mood of the children. Always Wednesday mornings from 10 to 12. Starting, provided there is enough interest, on November 21st. Special entry fee for non-members: 40 QR for 2 hours or 100 QR for the full day (regular fee 160 QR). Coffee, Tea and other refreshments are available at the club at extra cost. Mums must stay and hold the responsibility for their children. For further information and registration: Julia Poncar, GSM 552 3592 or [email protected]

DOHA LADIES NETBALL
Want to stay in shape and have fun? Then why not play netball? Ladies Competition Only, all players and experience welcome. New season starting October! Individual and Team registrations accepted.
Fun game nights as well as the opportunity to play for Qatar in the Intergulf Championships.
For more information contact: Doha Netball Club Email:[email protected]
Mobile:6529124 or 5855703

Jazz, ballet and tap dance classes.
Please email for a timetable and details on [email protected]

“Little Miracles” Playgroup for Mums and Toddlers
18months to 4years. QR 10 per child, per session. Sunday and Wednesday morning. Music, dance, crafts and fun!! For more information please contact Dalene Basson on 4684161 or 5719763. Mums must Stay!!!

Waterbabes – Baby & Toddler Swimming Group 5 – 24 months
Waterbabes is a fun programme, which helps your child learn life saving skills, organised by qualified British Swimming Teachers Association instructors. A 6-week programme is Q240.00. To book your please contact Anita Baldwin on 5833402 or email: [email protected]

Music for Me - Parent & Child Music Class
Music for Me Music Classes are a toddler/preschooler and parent music class for children age 9 months to 4 years. Classes include Classic songs, Finger Play, Marching & Movement, Bells, Maracas, Egg Shakers, Puppets, Scarves, Balls, Rhythm sticks & a Parachute.
Morning: Sunday 9:45 to 10:30 Laguna Beach, West Bay (near Qatar University Roundabout)
Sunday 10:45 to 11:30 Laguna Beach, West Bay (near Qatar University Roundabout)
Monday 9:00 to 9:45 Laguna Beach, West Bay
Wednesday 9:30 to 10:15 Alfardan Gardens, D Ring
Afternoon: Sunday 3:30 to 4:15 Laguna Beach, West Bay
Sunday 4:30 to 5:15 Laguna Beach, West Bay
Thursday 4:00 to 4:45, Fun First Preschool, West Bay, near Intercontinental Hotel Roundabout
Fee: 250 QR for 10 week class sessions includes music CD, 20% discount for siblings. Non-residents of Alfardan Gardens pay 5QR more per class (50QR total) for the Wednesday morning class only.
The Winter Session will begin the week of January 6 and run for 10 weeks
For more information, please call or email: Monica Muschalik [email protected]
483-6939 or 554-2309

'Little Tykes' play group for mums and tot / Bumps ‘n’ Babes playgroup for Mums and tots is closed until further notice.

Circusland
Landmark Shopping Centre Monday 10am-12pm
If you are part of a “mothers group” you pay QR10 per child, which allows the child to use all none token activities ie trampolines, bumper cars, soft play etc.

Ghanem Gardens Playgroups
At the Clubhouse, Ghanem Gardens Compound (adjacent to The Centre shopping mall)
Under 2’s – Monday 9.30am – 11.30am
Over 2’s – Wednesday 9:00am – 11:30am - contact Milagros Roygada, tel: 5194296
[email protected]
QR15 entrance fee per child includes tea/coffee; Drinks & snacks available for purchase

Dutch Speaking Playgroup
Meets twice a month at different locations :
- Babies&Toddlers first Wednesday morning of the month,
- Children (4yr up) last Thursday afternoon of the month.
For more details, contact Caroline [email protected] or check the website www.dsaqatar.org - Kalender.

More New Baby & Toddler Playgroups Are Needed!!
If you’re interested in starting a playgroup (all it takes is for you to nominate a day/time/place that suits you), or would like to advertise an existing group, then please email us the details at [email protected] for inclusion in next month’s “Mum’s the Word”.

Situation Vacant/Wanted

Wanted nanny/maid live out, 5 days per week. Must speak English or Hindi. Please call Gaurav for more info.

Wanted nanny/maid 3 mornings a week for an European family. With own transport and own sponsorship. Please call Nicky 5662859

CESK is looking for:
Class Leaders, Assistants and substitutes required for, well established Kindergarten, located opposite Doha College. Hours flexible. Salaries dependent
on hours, position and experience.
Call Helen or Louise at CESK on 5611518 or email [email protected]

TOTS CORNER NURSERY is looking for:
• Receptionist to work 2-3 days per week from 7.00 am to 2.00 pm. Native English speaker preferred or excellent command of English language needed.
• Assistants (full time) and Relief Staff to work with very young children (1-2 years old). The nursery serves children aged 1 to 4 years old. Our working hours are from 7.00 to 2.00 pm. Flexible timings are possible. Please send your CV to [email protected] or fax it to 468 8700.

FUN FIRST NURSERY is opening a new class soon and is looking for a teacher. Moms with and without experience are welcomed to apply, Fun First offers Good salaries, flexible hours and good discount on teachers' enrolled children. send your CV on: [email protected] or [email protected] tel. 4110952 / 4110953

LITTLE ANGELS NURSERY is looking for Teachers and Teacher Assistants. If you would like to apply please email your CV to [email protected] or come and visit us at 14 Wadi Al Qura St, Al Mamoura. Tel: 460 2713

Feature Article

A rather disturbing email I received last week received from one of our readers.

I have been mulling over the idea of reporting to MTW my son's story, and think perhaps it would be only fare to make other mums, dads and carers aware of what happened to my son last week at Ray's Reef. I would like to remain anonymous in the realisation that some people might take a rather harsh view.

'Last Wednesday afternoon I was, on my own, with my two sons aged 2 and nearly 4 years old at Ray's Reef. I have been in favour of Ray's Reef for a variety of reasons, but in particular found the automatic bolting locks on the gates including the entrance/exit appealing to the suggestion of improved security. Suggestion of added security is all that they are. I am the first to raise my hand and say that my children are my responsibility and that I should be accutely aware of their precise whereabouts at all times. However, I did not see my 4 year old, having a beady eye on my 2 year old, I kept looking over my shoulder to see where my other son was. One second he was there, and the next he was not. A rapid scan of Ray's Reef and no son could be seen. Minutes later he walks back into RR, gate wide open, no attendee present at gate. Shockingly, he tells me he went to the toilet in Royal Plaza with a man (giving a vague desciption). My son was able to go through the open gate.
The staff of RR did not seem too disturbed by my anxiety. The manager has yet to call me giving me the results of the CCTV footage. Overall, I have this sense they are already warn out and just can't be bothered.

It just took seconds for him to dissapear. I thank God he was unharmed and found his way back to RR. I dread to think how else this scenario could have been.'
ANON

Word Of Mouth -
Many things in Doha are found out about through Word of Mouth. Help us spread the word by letting us know things you have heard which may help other mums. Details can be emailed to [email protected]

• NEW Glow Salon and Spa has just opened!
Hillary the owner and hair stylist is from America.
Just off of Salwa Road, Glow offers:
• Hair cuts, hair color, hair styles, formal styles
• Massage
• Manicures and Pedicures (in the big comfy whirlpool thrones)
• Waxing
• Facials
• Make-Up
Please call 686-4221 for an appointment or please come check us out! Near Mercedes Benz Show Room, Villa #10 E-mail: [email protected]

• NEW The Phonics Wizard Reading Series was recently featured in the "Yoyomama" e-mail newsletter (which is a great free and very informative resource for Moms www.yoyomama.ca ). Useful for anyone with young children (20 months up to the ages of six or seven) anywhere around the world. Take a look at thephonicswizard.com

• Antenatal breastfeeding
Are you pregnant and keen to breastfeed?
Join an antenatal breastfeeding class by an Internationally Certified Lactation Consultant, starting mid January. Postnatal home visits also offered to support you with breastfeeding and early parenting. Contact Natalie on mob: 5899184, Home: 4361274 or email: [email protected].

• Photographer -Want a piece of art that captures the very essence of your children or family?
Charlene White is a New Zealand-born photographer living in Doha, who specialises in photographing pregnancy, babies, children and families. Her unique approach means she can create highly professional, affordable studio and/or casual portraits of your family in the comfort of your own home. You can contact Charlene on
(mob) 659 7428, email [email protected] or view examples of her work at www.charlenewhitephotography.com.

• RENT-A-NURSERY:
Short term rentals of baby and toddler necessities to accommodate visiting family/friends or mums waiting for their shipments to arrive?
For more information contact Santie on [email protected] or Mob. 5740617

• Canadian Midwife - trained in Canada and Australia
Masters in Nursing and Masters in Midwifery. Lactation Consultant. 20+ years in caring for mothers and babies. Prenatal visits, well-baby visits, lactation consultations. Contact Jill Durnford BScN, RN, MScN, Mmid [email protected]

• Power Plate -“Whole Body Vibration” Technology”
Utilizing your body’s natural response to vibration to firm and tone, increase muscle strength, stimulate circulation, increase flexibility, and increase bone density. Just three 10 to 15 min sessions a week required (equivalent to one hour gym work out). Proven by decades of clinical research.
Call Glenda 519-2245 for free trial

• Shiatsu Treatments for Women Shiatsu Practitioner - trained with the British School of Shiatsu-do (London) and graduated in 2001.
A healing art originating from Japan, where a variety of techniques using
palming, gentle stretches and joint rotations are used to stimulate the
energy channels (meridians) of the body. Used as a preventative form of
health care. Experience a feeling of relaxation and well-being.
Please phone: Kathy 6723987 or email [email protected]

• British Trained and Qualified Make-Up Artist (I.T.E.C, I.P.T.I, City & Guilds) for weddings, special occasions, parties, photographic make-up, modeling, consultations. Please call Victoria on 5428323 or email [email protected]

• The Beauty Room- Karen Roche, Qualified beauty therapst, reflexologist and
reiki master. 23 Ghanem Gardens, Tel 4316332/5745799

• Hair and Esthetic Services
• Facials
• Waxing
• Manicures & Pedicures
• Hair Cuts for Men, Women & Children
• House Calls Available
Call Janice @ 478-4951(h) 570-6561(m)

• STUCK ON YOU…your preferred labelling company – Agents now in Doha. Quality vinyl lavels and iron-on clothing labels available to order as well as bag tags, shoe labels etc.. Call Carole on 563 4289 or Marianna on 569 8493… Make sure that everything that goes to school comes home again!

• Quality new UPF 50+ Swim Nappies, Rash T Shirts, hats and boardies and many more items in quality UPF 50+ material. All items tested on real live fussy children (and adults!). Call Carole on 563 4289

• Creative Touch – Are you looking for a handmade and personalised greeting card or a one off piece of jewellery for someone special? Then email or call Karen at Creative Touch ([email protected] or 556 9727). Why not host a coffee morning for your friends and receive 10% of sales to spend on cards and gifts. Cards are now available for sale from The Hair Studio in Riviera Gardens.

• Reiki Master/Teacher Practitioner
Reiki is a natural ancient Japanese hands-on healing system. This divine energy work channels natural energy in order to relieve ailments on all levels.
Everything is made up of energy, so life’s stresses and strains can often create imbalances in the energetic fields of our bodies, leading to illness. Reiki is a means of challenging universal energy to the body to help clear and dissolve those blockages and toxins - enabling healing of the body, mind and spirit, by promoting the body’s natural ability to heal itself.
Please feel free to call for info; Claire Yates 6652343/4659235

• Professional Labour Support. Are you expecting a new addition to your family? Would you like to have someone to support you before, during, and after your delivery?
I am a certified DOULA who would be honoured to have the privilege to support you during one of the most important events of your life. Certified by the International Childbirth Educators Association (ICEA). Spaces are limited. I only attend one birth a month, so I can give my full attention to the family I am attending for. For more information please contact Sarah Hannibal- 537-5472

Useful Websites

• The new Expat Woman address is now www.expatwomanqatar.com
ExpatWoman is a free and friendly resource for Expatriates living in, or moving to, Doha and the surrounding areas. Through our Country Profile, very busy Information Board and growing monthly magazine we aim to provide interesting and useful information for all. And through our planned events schedule we will provide an opportunity for women in the region to meet others, make friends and enjoy what the city has to offer.

• www.classifieds.yellowbulletin.com
Buying or selling online in Qatar for FREE. Post ad to buy or sell ITEMS (CD's, books, computers, furniture, jewellery's, watches, buy or sell CARS and many more.

• www.vivreauqatar.com French website dedicated to Qatar

• The following websites are excellent for ideas for 'DIY Speech Therapy Activities' seeing as it can be so hard in Doha to find the right resources sometimes,...
www.speechteach.co.uk (Go to the downloads section to download and print off games and stuff)
http://www.ltscotland.org.uk (which leads to Early Years and then you can search for speech.)
www.afasic.org.uk/speechlang.htm
(A big thankyou to Jackie Fernandez for these useful websites. Jackie has contributed many articles and useful tit bits to Mums the Word but is now unfortunately leaving with her family to colder climbs! A big thank you Jackie and good luck to you and the gang!! We will miss you..)

• www.homebodies.org - An online community for stay-at-home-parents. It’s a great place to meet other stay-at-home-parents and share information, problems and ideas about their kids, etc. Even though it is called stay-at home-parents, most of the contributors are stay-at-home-moms. This is information was sent to me by one of the few-stay-at- home dads in Doha!!
• www.themouseclub.co.uk - A lovely site for young children, very simple and easy to follow. The online activities help to develop basic computer skills.
• www.crick.northants.sch.uk/pageearlyyears.html - This is a link to a set of key early learning tasks. Very user friendly and worthwhile.
• www.woodlands-junior.kent.sch.uk/interactive - Great sites for kids (ages 4 – 11 years) and parents.
• www.poissonrouge.com - Very colourful site with lots of fun activities for the kids and they can learn some French too.
• "Qatar Living (http://www.qatarliving.com) online community for everyone living (or interested) in Qatar. Everything is written by the visitors to the site (you!) - so if you found a baby friendly restaurant, attended a show or found a great deal, sign-up and write a review! Maybe you need to get something done in Doha but can't figure out how? Ask others on Qatar Living - someone has probably faced the same issue before. Visit http://www.qatarliving.com and look around - you'll be pleasantly surprised.

Baby & Toddler Items For Sale:

• Premaman Travel system (stroller+car seat) + matching diaper bag and carrycot (used 3 months) QR 1000
• Chicco bouncer brand new (unpacked) QR 120
• Prénatal single stroller rain cover (unpacked) QR 50
• Juniors baby front carrier (used for a day) QR 100
Please email for more information [email protected]

Wanted

• Toddler Car Seat. Call or text Claudia at 538-4458.

Craft Idea: Valentine Card
All that is needed is a simple piece of paper. The paper can be folded, cut, shaped in any way that they would like it to be. Here’s one idea to try:
* Fold the paper in half, and then fold it in half again in the other direction.
* Trim the outer edge as desired and cut a straight line diagonally across the folded corner. This will make a diamond shape in the middle.
* Fold it diagonally. Cut hearts along the diagonal line. When the paper is unfolded, there is a line of pin pricks, which make it look much like a piece of lace.
* Add this lacy paper to the top of a piece of pink or red paper.
* Add decorations such as a picture of cupid, a picture of a rose or anything that is enjoyable.

Recipe: Chocolate and Coconut Nests

For 4 Nests

100g (4oz) plain chocolate, broken into pieces
25g (1oz) butter or margarine, cut into pieces
1/2 tbsp golden syrup
2 Shredded Wheat, crumbled
15g (1/2 oz) shredded coconut
small sugar eggs or chocolate eggs to fill nests

- Grease a small baking tray and line with baking parchment. Put chocolate, butter and syrup in a saucepan. Heat gently over a very low heat, stirring until melted (alternatively put the ingredients in a shallow Microwave proof bowl and cook on medium for about 2 minutes).

- Remove from heat, stir in Shredded Wheat and most of coconut.

- Divide mixture into four, spoon onto parchment and shape into nests.

- Sprinkle with remaining coconut and leave to set in refrigerator. When chocolate has set, fill nests with eggs.

(Taken from Simply Delicious Series)

Remember, “Mum’s the Word”!!

*Please note that we endeavour to provide our readers with accurate information, but can accept no liability in the case of unintentional errors.