DIY Chalkboard Houses
These are super easy to make and provide hours of creative play as well as encourage the development of your toddler's hand-eye coordination and attention span.
To make some chalkboard blocks of your own you’ll need to gather a few supplies (Bunnings or Mitre 10 should have everything you need):
• plank of wood
• saw
• chalkboard paint
• paint brush
• paint tray
• sandpaper
Cut down the wood into rectangles and saw the corners off one end to form a house shape. You can make the blocks as tall, short, or narrow as you’d like. Variety makes your city scape more interesting!
When the blocks are cut, sand all the edges and front so they are smooth and there are no rough spots. Then, simply paint over with chalkboard paint and let dry overnight before use.
Once the paint has dried, have fun creating your little city!
Printable link: www.curtainclean.co.nz...
Spring gardening tips
Dreaming of a garden bursting with colour and fresh produce? Shane Fairbairn, Ryman Healthcare’s Landscape Manager, shares his top tips to make it happen. You’ll be set to create a gorgeous, relaxing space in no time - grab your trowel, and let’s dig in.
Click read more for more information.
Poll: Do you think NZ should ban social media for youth?
The Australian Prime Minister has expressed plans to ban social media use for children.
This would make it illegal for under 16-year-olds to have accounts on platforms including TikTok, Instagram, Facebook and X.
Social media platforms would be tasked with ensuring children have no access (under-age children and their parents wouldn’t be penalised for breaching the age limit)
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Do you think NZ should follow suit? Vote in our poll and share your thoughts below.
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84.6% Yes
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13.9% No
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1.5% Other - I'll share below
What's your favourite recipe for courgettes?
Kia ora neighbours. If you've got a family recipe for courgettes, we'd love to see it and maybe publish it in our magazine. Send your recipe to mailbox@nzgardener.co.nz, and if we use it in the mag, you will receive a free copy of our January 2025 issue.