Daza | ExpatWoman.com
 

Daza

Daza
4062
Posts
EW MASTER
Latest post on 21 October 2012 - 16:59
Being the mother of a child who studies in Repton, I can add my feedback. Hope it helps you: 1. School premises and facilities are great though incomplete. 2. The teaching method is a one size fits all. 3.The support from the school management is dodgy, so if you have a good teacher you are in luck otherwise you wont be able to cope. The Heads are condescending and rude and if you have a problem then your only solution is to withdraw your child from school. They make it very clear. 4. SChool has increased fees by 12% despite not receiving an outstanding rating.[b'> The management withheld this information till the term started so children could not be withdrawn.[/b'> 5. High teacher turnover. edited by Bread&Butter on 21/10/2012 It wasn't withheld, parents were told on a number of occasions. To quote a specific one, I had an email on March 11 which stated 'Repton School has applied to the relevant authorities for permission to increase fees for the academic year 2012-13 Should permission be granted, parents will be informed as soon as notification is received.'
Daza
4062
Posts
EW MASTER
Latest post on 21 October 2012 - 16:48
Thank you so much ladies! I've found the shop and confirmed they have it, you've saved me from mall trawling.
Daza
4062
Posts
EW MASTER
Latest post on 21 October 2012 - 16:26
Thank you Missymoo!
Daza
4062
Posts
EW MASTER
Latest post on 21 October 2012 - 14:57
I have no advise to give, but I really feel for the moms traveling alone with kids! All this luggage, toys, babies, toddlers... I make sure I offer to help those moms, especially in airports like Doha where you have to get on a bus. Apart from the airport and airline staff, passengers can try to be a bit more helpful towards each other! Good for you Marroosh. In every other airport I've been too I've always found it heart warming how helpful other passengers are. Not sure what it is about Heathrow that turns people in to monsters!
Daza
4062
Posts
EW MASTER
Latest post on 21 October 2012 - 14:46
My children don't take the bus but due to other reasons I've not been able to do the school run this year. I hate it, I feel totally out the loop and really miss the contact.
Daza
4062
Posts
EW MASTER
Latest post on 21 October 2012 - 14:43
Sorry OP, just realised how unhelpful my post was! My advice would be to try to organise assistance but don't rely on it happening. Take as little hand luggage as you can so you can still manage if you have to carry your baby. You'll be fine.
Daza
4062
Posts
EW MASTER
Latest post on 21 October 2012 - 14:37
Totally agree notheragain, I had an awful experience at Heathrow travelling with a toddler when I was pregnant. I now avoid it at all costs. It's not just the staff either, not a single other passenger offered to help.
Daza
4062
Posts
EW MASTER
Latest post on 21 October 2012 - 14:24
Both the Organic Shops are out of Floradix liquid iron supplement - I think I bought it all in my last stock up! Has anyone seen it anywhere else please? It's the only iron supplement I've found I can take. I'm pregnant, anaemic and have nearly run out so I'm getting worried.
Daza
4062
Posts
EW MASTER
Latest post on 21 October 2012 - 13:47
The children's section at Ikea has beds that fit in small maid's room. We've got the Kura bunk bed but the other way up from the one in this picture. The mattress is on the top leaving space underneath. http://www.ikea.com/us/en/catalog/products/10123996/
Daza
4062
Posts
EW MASTER
Latest post on 21 October 2012 - 13:39
Money generally seems to hold the most interest!
Daza
4062
Posts
EW MASTER
Latest post on 21 October 2012 - 13:19
When you have children I think you realise pretty quickly that you have to raise them in the the way that is best for you and your husband, not your, or his, parents. It would be great if you could keep everyone happy about all of your choices but that is a very hard thing to do.
Daza
4062
Posts
EW MASTER
Latest post on 20 October 2012 - 15:17
There is a thread going in the maids forum about Eid off: http://www.expatwoman.com/forum/messages.aspx?TopicID=191792
Daza
4062
Posts
EW MASTER
Latest post on 20 October 2012 - 13:23
Barasti maybe?
Daza
4062
Posts
EW MASTER
Latest post on 20 October 2012 - 11:07
I've got young children and live in Arabian Ranches. I love it, it has a great community feel and is perfect with little ones. It's a fairly easy run to DIFC, it takes about 25 mins.
Daza
4062
Posts
EW MASTER
Latest post on 20 October 2012 - 11:02
I've used Cheeky Monkeys a couple of time and been to LOADS of Cheeky Monkey parties. They are brilliant, high energy, lots of fun and keep the children entertained (and worn out afterwards!) for the whole time. When I've used them I haven't had to give the entertainment a second thought and actually been able to relax, talk to my guests and enjoy the party.
Daza
4062
Posts
EW MASTER
Latest post on 19 October 2012 - 20:31
I have my fingers firmly crossed for you. Keep calling the cab companies. Last year I dropped my wallet in the Lamcy Plaza carpark. I got a call from the man who found it before I'd even realised it was missing. There are some honest good hearted people out there.
Daza
4062
Posts
EW MASTER
Latest post on 19 October 2012 - 20:26
Chin up Gummy, it might be returned to you. If you called within 5 minutes hopefully they can track it. Do you live in a gated community and can get the cab number from security?
Daza
4062
Posts
EW MASTER
Latest post on 19 October 2012 - 19:53
All my children have had the occasional Actimel when they've been two. Doesn't seem to have done them any harm.
Daza
4062
Posts
EW MASTER
Latest post on 19 October 2012 - 19:51
sandance for 40's? Er, yes. Plenty of over 40's there. My husband for one. There's probably more over 40's in the VIP areas, no need to slum it in the sand with those in their 20's....
Daza
4062
Posts
EW MASTER
Latest post on 19 October 2012 - 17:25
Is it wrong to slightly fancy him?? I felt a bit scandalised with myself when I first clocked him with his shirt off at the London Olympics!
Daza
4062
Posts
EW MASTER
Latest post on 19 October 2012 - 17:23
Second vote for Jambase! I really enjoy Trader Vic at the Madinat for dinner (it's normally pretty lively) then Jambase for dancing afterwards. If she is here for a Sandance weekend (the next one is Fri 9 Nov) then I'd really recommend that too.
Daza
4062
Posts
EW MASTER
Latest post on 19 October 2012 - 12:23
It totally depends on both the nursery/school and the child so you need to tailor your decision to your specific situation. I think in generally it is harder to get a place in FS2 then FS1 so if offered a place in FS1 at a school you like I'd take it unless you think you child would really not cope. I know a few people who turned down places in FS1 then couldn't get their children in to FS2 so had to go to their less preferred school. I'm not aware of any schools that defer a place although that doesn't mean there aren't any!
Daza
4062
Posts
EW MASTER
Latest post on 18 October 2012 - 16:49
My boyfriend at university was a keen car surfer. At the time I thought it was enormously funny. Ahhh, the stupidity of youth....
Daza
4062
Posts
EW MASTER
Latest post on 18 October 2012 - 16:23
I think this a great idea to limit children's facebooking! http://www.stuff.co.nz/technology/7594087/Dad-finds-way-to-block-Facebook
Daza
4062
Posts
EW MASTER
Latest post on 18 October 2012 - 16:10
I don't know if I have done the right thing, but I do allow my DD on fb. She is my friend and I have her password so i can check everything that happens on it. With mobiles and laptops and all sorts of other ways to access fb and other social networking sites, she could have easily gone behind my back and got a fb page without my knowledge. I'd rather she had one and I knew all about it. To me, fb and the internet in general does hold plenty of potential for harm to our babes just as going down to the woods or out to play did when we were young. Our parents didn't stop us going out because they knew we had to learn independence and they taught us to be very careful and they kept an eye on us and knew where we were going. I have tried to take the same attitude to the internet today, but I don't know if I'm doing the right thing or not. I fear that she could be targeted if she's online but I also fear that if I prevent her from using the same social media that all her friends use, she'll just do it behind my back which is far more dangerous. What do EWers think? I totally agree with you emmsie. I'm grateful that my oldest is still only six so it's not yet an issue but I know that the day will come when she will want to be on facebook - or whatever social media is popular at that time. I like your approach and would like to think that is how I will approach it too. As you say, banning it totally may well lead to them going behind your back. Also, it doesn't seem right to totally exclude them from what is very much an aspect of modern life and how children/teenagers communicate now.
Daza
4062
Posts
EW MASTER
Latest post on 18 October 2012 - 15:35
Info here: http://www.gulfbikeweek.com/
Daza
4062
Posts
EW MASTER
Latest post on 18 October 2012 - 14:35
there is printing and there is writing. It is all penmanship. Yes it has to be readable and that is why people learn to form letters properly whether they print or write. I can just see the next generation signing forms with a X like they did before people could write lol They probably won't even bother with a X, it'll be a :)
Daza
4062
Posts
EW MASTER
Latest post on 18 October 2012 - 13:24
My six year old is currently learning cursive. I too was wondering what the point was but on further reflection (and after studying my own appalling handwriting) I think beautiful hand writing is a great skill to learn. I don't think it really matters if the majority of work is typed, I'm always full of admiration when I get a beautifully written card or note from someone.
Daza
4062
Posts
EW MASTER
Latest post on 18 October 2012 - 13:17
It sounds like when you're not sitting on the couch for five days straight, she is!
Daza
4062
Posts
EW MASTER
Latest post on 18 October 2012 - 11:00
I agree with DR, you need to send her back to the agency and start afresh. Three months in and she's already telling you what she won't do then sulking and crying when you pull her up on it. To be totally honest, I think what you are doing wrong is forgetting that you are her boss and she is your employee. Would your husband get away with telling his boss he didn't want to do things then sulking and if told he had to? You pay her to do a job, it should be done how you expect it or you will find someone else that will do it. It doesn't sound like what you are expecting is unreasonable, it actually sounds very much like how I run our house apart from I enjoy cooking so our maid doesn't do that. I've also got three children (currently pregnant with our fourth). I have employed our maid to to keep our home clean so I can enjoy more time with our children. She doesn't help out with or play with the children unless I have asked her to during a specific timeframe. If it suits you for your maid to take a break in the middle of the day so you have your children to yourself then tell her the hours you would like her to work and insist she stick to them. Our maid starts at 7.30am and finishes about 7 - 7.30pm. She has a two hour break in the middle of the day. I don't think it's harsh at all that you don't want to take your maid out with you. I don't do it either. I don't think there is anything wrong with doing it if that is what works for you but it doesn't work for me. I actually find it unnecessary and uncomfortable to have someone there trying to help (pushing trolleys/buggys etc) when I don't want or need help. If your current maid wants to work for a family who take her out or have her mainly looking after children then there is nothing wrong with that, she might be a great maid under those circumstances. It's not what you want though. I wouldn't want someone working for me who was unhappy so I'd rather try to find someone who was happy to work under my terms.
Daza
4062
Posts
EW MASTER
Latest post on 17 October 2012 - 17:50
There's no 'standard' on giving maids time off at Eid. People do whatever suits them and their families so just go with what works for you. Personally, I always just give our maid whatever holidays are announced for the private sector. It's easy and it works for me.
Daza
4062
Posts
EW MASTER
Latest post on 17 October 2012 - 14:50
You can buy Goodspheres, or another brand similar, in many pharmacy's here. I've got one in my children's room, it's great at blocking out noise. http://www.goodsphere.net/
Daza
4062
Posts
EW MASTER
Latest post on 15 October 2012 - 21:17
Here's a list of Post Offices where you can buy stamps and post letters and parcels. http://www.emiratespost.com/content/english/contact.jsp Not sure which one would be the closest to you in the Meadows. Media City? Maybe someone else can advise? I go to the Al Barsha one which is behind Mall of the Emirates so not too far from the Meadows.
Daza
4062
Posts
EW MASTER
Latest post on 15 October 2012 - 14:18
We stayed at the Sacher Hotel in Vienna a couple of years ago, it was amazing. The hotel was beautiful, the staff were brilliant and the location was superb. It's right next to the Opera House. The breakfast buffet includes a selection of their famous chocolate tortes and cakes, my children were in heaven. http://www.sacher.com/en-hotel-sacher-vienna.htm
Daza
4062
Posts
EW MASTER
Latest post on 15 October 2012 - 14:04
It normally depends on your contract Deeva. When I was renting all maintenance (including garden) had to be paid for by me. I think it's more common for the landlord to pay though.
Daza
4062
Posts
EW MASTER
Latest post on 15 October 2012 - 10:45
I've just asked my 6 yo daughter the top three things she'd do.... Kidzania Ski Dubai Wild Wadi She also loves Aquaventure.
Daza
4062
Posts
EW MASTER
Latest post on 15 October 2012 - 10:03
Hi Norts I can't recommend anyone personally but Majestic Nannies get mentioned on here a bit. As far as I'm aware they are qualified nannies, not maids, if that is what you are after.
Daza
4062
Posts
EW MASTER
Latest post on 14 October 2012 - 21:44
Cleared to jump. Eeeeeek, not sure if I can watch!
Daza
4062
Posts
EW MASTER
Latest post on 14 October 2012 - 19:49
Everytime one of these driving standards threads appear I am dying to ask how many posters who comment actually have clean licences since living in Dubai? ie Not one parking or speeding fine and never been involved in any form of accident? I probably shouldn't say this as I'll jinx myself but, touch wood.....I've been here nearly six years without any speeding fines, parking tickets or accidents. In my 20 years of driving prior to Dubai I've had one speeding fine, a couple of parking tickets and no accidents (although I've been in them as a passenger).
Daza
4062
Posts
EW MASTER
Latest post on 14 October 2012 - 19:45
These are not mothers I saw on SZR today - they are men. Many are exactly that = drivers - usually a driver from East of here who is out loose in a big 4 x 4 or the usual "[b'>Plate 5[/b'>" lot. I haven't heard that term before, what does it mean? Or dare I not ask?!
Daza
4062
Posts
EW MASTER
Latest post on 14 October 2012 - 19:03
My children's pediatrician advised me that an air purifier is the best option for improving air quality.
Daza
4062
Posts
EW MASTER
Latest post on 14 October 2012 - 17:42
It's only happened a couple of times but I've noticed errors in worksheets and corrected them. Both times the teacher has apologised.
Daza
4062
Posts
EW MASTER
Latest post on 14 October 2012 - 16:28
I was just joking. It's the time when ALL mothers pick up their kids from school. Indeed. Why why why pay so little attention to the road at any time, let alone when you have such precious cargo on board?
Daza
4062
Posts
EW MASTER
Latest post on 14 October 2012 - 16:03
Yes, that is the time when expat mothers pick up their kids from school. :) Why single out the expat mothers specifically? It's also the time (at my children's school at least) that the local mothers pick up their children from school.
Daza
4062
Posts
EW MASTER
Latest post on 14 October 2012 - 13:24
We all have different ways of doing things CA. If shouting the loudest works for you then that is great, it doesn't mean it's right for everyone.
Daza
4062
Posts
EW MASTER
Latest post on 14 October 2012 - 12:41
I've never bothered getting a heater here although it has crossed my mind for my children for when they get out the bath. I quite like snuggling under a blanket on the couch on a winter's evening here. My first student flat the condensation on the INSIDE of the windows used to freeze in winter. Brrrrr.
Daza
4062
Posts
EW MASTER
Latest post on 14 October 2012 - 12:30
I'm having the same thing with my 6 year old. She is also beautifully behaved at school. I honestly don't even think she's aware she's doing it half the time. I've put it down to having settled in to Year Two well and being brimming with confidence (which is good) and getting a bit big for her boots. She knows it all and she knows best! I've been getting a bit of eye rolling thrown in for good measure. I've decided to treat it as I treat teaching volume control when they are younger. I pull her up on her tone every time she uses it (which is a lot), asks her if she knows how she is sounding, asks her if she would like to be spoken to like that and asks her what she expects to achieve by it. I also explain that she will achieve the exact opposite of what she was hoping to if that is how she speaks to people. So if she has asked me for something (demanded really) in a rude tone there is no way she will get it and she will lose it the next time she wants it too. She seems to be getting it.
Daza
4062
Posts
EW MASTER
Latest post on 13 October 2012 - 13:30
Thanks for this (and thanks for other replies). I like the look of the bougainvillea may I ask how tall it has grown and how long it takes to establish(ish). We'd like something 8ft(isn) I think. Thank you again. Bougainvillea is fairly quick growing if it's fertilised regularly. I think I remember reading that in sandy soils it can be fertilised every two weeks for maximum growth and flowering. It will grow to 8 feet (and upwards) if it has support. There is a two story house in Saheel, AR that had bougainvillea growing up the side of the house to the roof! Do you have railings the bouganvillea could grow up? Failing that you could put in an eight foot trellis. You can buy trellis pretty cheaply at the plant souk off Academic City Road.
Daza
4062
Posts
EW MASTER
Latest post on 13 October 2012 - 10:10
My husband and I take it it turns for a lie in at the weekend. Which means one guaranteed lie in a week and I look forward to it SO much! I get up with the children on Friday morning and he gets up with them on Saturday morning. We both get up at 6am during the week so it's fair to split it at the weekend.
Daza
4062
Posts
EW MASTER
Latest post on 12 October 2012 - 19:53
I'm inclined to agree with this. We have about 12 in our garden and no damage to walls or pool or drains as far as we can tell. We have been thinking of getting them trimmed down as they cast a lot of shade and grass won't grow in one corner. Since the EMAAR campaign our neighbours have complained that our trees are encroaching into their garden but they are just using that as an excuse to have another go at us I think. They have lived next door for over a year and not mentioned anything until now.. [b'>Why should Damas trees be any worse than any other tree?[/b'> They all have extensive root systems as far as I know they wouldn't stand up if they didn't Trees differ as much underground as they do above ground. Root systems have huge variation from species to species. Just as trees adapt above ground to suit their environment, they adapt below ground. Damas trees have adapted in order to be successful in the climate here, they tolerate heat, drought and high levels of salinity well which helps them thrive in the conditions here. Key to it's success is it's root system which is fast growing, covers a large area and is extensively branching making it very dense. The roots themselves are very fibrous rather than soft which makes them ideal for forcing their way through anything in order to reach water. Which is great for the tree, not so great for the wall/pipe/swimming pool that stand in it's way. When we first moved here we were in a rented property which had many large damas trees in the garden. The damas did great but nothing else would grow so I dusted off my plant and microbial sciences major and read up on them. When we bought a house my main stipulation for the garden was no damas! ETA: In answer to the OP, I've put in lots of bougainvillea which grow in to a dense hedge which I love the look of. You don't get the height of the damas though. <em>edited by Daza on 12/10/2012</em>
 
 
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