Meet our latest Xander Mom, Hayley Malan. She chatted to us about her blog, Hayley’s Joys, her family, balancing a busy life and shared some tips with us too.
Tell us about yourself?
My name is Hayley Malan. I’m a financial services professional by day & blogger/writer by night. I’m also a wife to Kurt and Mom to Alyssa (3) and Aidan (1). I love reading – (I’m a magazine hoarder too), staying fit and of course blogging and writing is my creative outlet!
Tell us about your blog?
Hayley’s Joys actually started out 2 years ago, as my online journal and photo album. It has now evolved into a platform to share my little family’s experiences and I am enjoying the engagement with my readers. I blog about everyday stuff which includes some parenting talk, a bit of fashion & decor as well as some baby stuff.
How do you feel about using technology as part of learning?
I believe there must be a good balance in terms of technology, especially where our little ones are concerned. Just like anything else in life – too much of a good thing is bad. We cannot prevent our kids from using technology in order to learn as it’s become a part of our lives, however kids still need to experience life the good old fashion way of playing with their hands and developing those fine motor skills and all that good stuff.
What are your kids favourite apps?
I haven’t exposed my children to any apps on my phone or tablet just yet but Alyssa loves nursery rhyme apps, memory, counting and puzzles games. She is loving the Xander apps right now actually.
What do you love about South Africa and raising your children here?
I don’t think there is any other country in the world with such beauty, diversity and just plain old friendliness. There’s also so much to see and do, without having to travel very far.
Suppertime tips for parents with young children?
As soon as your baby starts eating, sit as a family and have supper together. Switch off the TV, put phones away and talk to each other. It may be the only time of day you will have to chat (that’s if your schedule is as hectic as ours) .
TV “Yes” or “No”?
It’s all about balance – and there must be limits.
What is in the lunchbox?
Cheese dippers, chicken pops and tomatoes.
How do you balance it all – in one sentence?
Coffee, coffee and more coffee!
Do you children do chores at home, if so what and how do you manage it?
They are slightly too young for actual chores but I do make them help pack away their toys every day.
What is your favourite holiday plans/ activities with kids?
Little road trips are always fun and the Western Cape had so many little towns to discover which is awesome.
Follow Hayley’s blog here and catch up with her on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest and Snapchat (Hayleymalan18)
