Meet Craig, our awesome Xander Dad who chatted to us about his two gorgeous girls, technology and dad stuff.
Tell us about yourself?
My name is Craig Lotter, I’m 36 years old, and I’m a senior software developer at Touchwork. I’m happily married, live in the beautiful coastal town of Gordon’s Bay, and have two gorgeous little girls, Jessica (5) and Emily (2). Seeing as my wife does shift work (she manages a guest house and bakes wedding cakes on the side), I am actively looking after and raising the girls. In other words, I don’t really have much time to myself any more!
Tell us about your blog?
My blog started back in 2007 when I was still working at the University of Cape Town as a web developer, and was originally in place for me to mess around with the software and at the same time record some of my comings and goings. It then started becoming more of a tech tip repository for myself, as well as a place where I could keep track of a lot of my interests at the time, like comic books, animation, and gaming. It morphed into a place where I could keep everyone in our lives up to date with what was happening with the family and kids, and currently, as I travel more with the kids, it’s becoming more of a travel/ things to do blog. The site has gone through a number of name changes over the years (mainly because I still haven’t come up with something good for such a varied blog), but the core idea behind it has always remained the same – It’s my place for recording my life.
How do you feel about using technology as part of learning?
It’s very important, because technology is extremely central to our lives, and if you are not familiar with technology, or don’t keep up, then you risk being left behind. So yes, I am very keen for both of my girls to immerse themselves in both knowledge and technology – after all, both complement one another quite beautifully.
What are your kid’s favourite apps?
Netflix and YouTube – hey, they’re kids, and kids love cartoons, and whether you like it or not, that’s probably not something that’s going to change any time soon!
What do you love about South Africa and raising your children here?
Other than crime, what’s not to love about South Africa? The country is beautiful in terms of nature, culture, diversity, there is plenty of opportunity if you know where to look, and South Africans are usually quite amazing people. Our school system works well, medical facilities are world class and certainly Cape Town’s infrastructure is fantastic. Oh, and the sporting opportunities are there as well. Plus, I live by the sea. You can’t really beat that to be honest.
Suppertime tips for parents with young children?
Do not force kids to eat things if they don’t want to eat it, as frustrating as that can be. There’s nothing worse that spending time making food only to have your girls turn their noses up to it. (Currently, Jessica seems to already be on a path of vegetarianism!). Being sneaky works though. Camouflage those veggies wherever you can!
TV “Yes” or “No”?
In moderation, television time is fine. However, it depends on the programming being watched. A lot of kids programmes can be quite educational, and those I don’t mind them spending time with. For instance, both Emily and Jessica love “Peppa Pig” and “Ben and Holly’s Little Kingdom“, two great kids shows that bury a decent amount of learning, concepts and lessons within them.
What is in the lunchbox?
I am so, so tired of making peanut butter sandwiches. But yes, lunchboxes usually consist of a peanut butter sandwich, a banana, a yogurt, and either grapes or some soft citrus slices. Oh, and a bottle of cold water. (We don’t give the girls any juice or cooldrink at home).
How do you balance it all – in one sentence?
Keep work in work hours, housework to a bare minimum, and maximize using the weekends for outings with your kids.
Do you children do chores at home, if so what and how do you manage it?
Emily is a toddler, so she is a chore. Jessica is getting close to it, but she hasn’t yet been saddled with responsibilities other than making sure all the lights are off before we leave the house and getting herself ready for school (she is in Grade R at Gordon’s Bay Primary). Lucky kids.
What is your favourite holiday plans/ activities with kids?
I don’t actually have a favourite. I try and take the girls out every weekend (my blog is testament to this), and by trying new things or seeing new places all the time it keeps it fresh and interesting for both the girls and myself. Obviously we see a lot of different types of animals because that’s usually the kind of thing that kids like to see, but seeing as both my girls are not overly fond of having things touching/sniffing them, they’re the happiest when we discover a new slide, swing or jungle gym for them to clamber all over!
Check out Craig’s blog and follow him on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram to keep an eye on what he and his gorgeous girls are up to.