Victoria Barbaro
Tell us a bit about yourself?
I’m 32, mum of Harper (5) and Archie (4) and furbaby, Mischa (Dachshund). I am a primary teacher and a new small business owner. I have just finished studying early years education after working in upper primary for my whole career! It just sort of ‘found me’ after I had my own little ones and I don't think I’ll ever look back. Teaching preschoolers/kindergarteners is magical and I love being part of the play, inquiry and change that happens at that stage of their lives.
That’s actually where my business started! I’m so passionate about quality educational resources and giving other people the tools needed to create an effective learning environment at home for their own children.
Fun fact that I have never told anyone: it’s actually called Sunnie Bee because my middle name is Sunshine and surname starts with a B.
What were you doing before babies?
My life was slower paced before babies (and I definitely got more sleep) but I never really gave anything up to be a mum. It all just fits in!
How did you come to be a mum?
I’m grateful to have had an easy run with this, life just plodded along and then we were blessed with our two sweethearts! I knew I wanted them close in age so that they could build a strong sibling connection from the get go.
What has your feeding journey been like?
My milk supply was intense. I had to constantly replace the milk pads in my bra! Both Harper and Archie fed really well.
What has sleep been like in your house?
Can you please define sleep? Haha if it isn’t my daughter waking up during the night then it’s my dog needing to go outside. Archie and my husband are both solid sleepers, but hey, you’re only young once! I aim for 6 (sometimes choppy) hours of sleep a night.
The hardest bits…and the best bits!
Limited time to just experience it all. I am a very reflective person and if I know I haven’t been present with my children or husband, then I feel empty and lost. I put work/technology down to really be with them and listen, play, connect. I think this is the hardest thing to find time for, but the best bit that happens.
How do you make time for yourself?
I really love listening to self-help and non-fiction audio books. I just finished “101 essays that will change the way you think” by Brianna Wiest!
What’s next for you and your family?
I am teaching kindergarten this year and focussing on sharing the love to other families with Sunnie Bee Pty Ltd.
If you could talk to your pre baby/kid self, what advice would you give?
I would say “you have a lot ahead of you that will make you feel like your heart is going to explode with love, you will surprise yourself and others!”
Be sure to check out Tori's business, Sunnie Bee!