Family Times - Auckland - Autumn 2012 by Twenty Seven Publishers

AUTUMN ISSUE 20 2012

ISSN 1178 5268

AU C K L A N D

Getting guys into the classroom Why NZ needs more male teachers

Family history Discover your heritage

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inside this issue

Contents 5

Features 5 Homework battle

Alan Jones gives seasonal gardening advice.

Win the homework war for good.

17 Family finances

Why are men are underrepresented in primary and early childhood education?

18 In search of dry nights

6 Getting guys into the classroom

8 Spatial awareness for kids Help your wee one feel safe in their “grownup” bed.

9 The joy of being a mum

Life coach Karyn Riley looks at the upside of parenting.

10 Fit families

Get involved in your child’s sport.

16 The vege patch

New Zealand Gardener of the Year

Teach your kids about the benefits of saving. Tips on toilet training your child.

19 Glue ear

Dr Jeremy Hornibrook talks about glue ear signs, symptoms and treatment.

21 You’re not listening!

children to treasure.

24 Top reads

Check out the latest and greatest children’s books recently released.

Comment

Are you inadvertently teaching your child to ignore you?

12 Kids’ View

Learn how to help your kids through stressful situations.

Special features

22 Kids and stress

23 Explore your family history

Create a record of your heritage for your

you’ll want to keep for years to come.

We ask children all about how they manage stress.

20 Birthday snaps

4 14 15 21 23

Resource information

School term dates Calendar of events Entertainment Gaming Marketplace

Quick tips on snagging party pics

About Us Office Manager

Raelyn Hay

Office Administrator Jackie Pithie

Reach us at: Family Publishers (NZ)

Cover image Auckland Museum.

Publisher Robyn Willis

Design & Production Moody Shokry

P.O. Box 36-004, Christchurch NZ Free phone 0800 28 55 10 Fax 03 355 9183 Mobile 0274-359-414 Email: admin@familytimes.co.nz www.familytimes.co.nz

__________________ Distribution

Printed and distributed quarterly approximately Advert Production two weeks before Target Press Production Office each major school Editor holiday. 65,670 Vanessa O’Brien distributed through early childhood Website editor centres, primary, Fiona Smith intermediate schools and city council Contributing Writers libraries. The opinions expressed in Alan Jones Karyn Riley this publication are not those of the Lee Keenan Roger Wood publisher unless indicated otherwise. Julie Wylie Duncan Sharpe No part of this publication may be reprinted without the expressed written permission of the publisher. Family Advertising Sales Times is not responsible for unsolicited Caren Constable Jane Hunter material. Family Times is funded and Tina Barriball Vanessa Newman published solely through the support Shona Robb Desiree Durant of its advertisers. They support us, Nicky Barnett Rachel Taniwha please support them.

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Become a Wynyard Explorer on the Dockline Tram. Explorers wanted. Grab your kids and head down to the Dockline Tram to discover the revamped Wynyard Quarter. As you hop onboard, all Explorers will be given a map that will bring your journey to life. It’s a fun day of discovery for There are fun questions to answer and clues to everyone with collect at each stop along the way, as you learn plenty to see and do. about the Wynyard Quarter and the people in it. PS. Every Explorer will go home with their very own tram to make at home.

Visit www.aucklandtram.co.nz for more information. The Explorer Programme kicks off April 6 for the school holidays.

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From the editor

I was in the car with my sister when we picked up my niece and nephew on their last day of school for the year. They had the characteristic glow of those released from the tyranny of learning for the summer; a mixed air of relief and exhaustion, capped with the giddy excitement of Christmas just around the corner. After they threw their bags in the car with great gusto and shouted farewells to their friends I turned to my eightyear-old niece and asked her, “So, who did you get?” There had been much anticipation about who her teacher would be in the coming year. Throughout her kindergarten years and her primary years to date, she had been taught by some wonderful female teachers, but she couldn’t hide her enthusiasm when she announced: “I got Mr...” Some children in New Zealand today make it all the way to high school before they encounter their first male teacher. And while the argument that what children learn is more important than who they learn it from holds some water, there is strong evidence to suggest that a positive male role model in a teaching capacity can be very beneficial for both girls and boys. Yet only 18 % of primary teachers in New Zealand today are male, and just 2% of early childhood education teachers are male. That makes teaching quite possible the most segregated profession in the country. So what holds back our men from moulding the minds of the future? Is it left-over stigma from 1990s New Zealand; Is it a gradual feminisation of the education system and a public perception that it’s a women’s job now;

l o o h Sc Te r m es t a D Term 2, 2012

Monday 23 April to Friday 29 June

Term 3, 2012

Monday 16 July to Friday 28 September is it pay-related, or is there something else that we’re just not aware of yet? This issue our main feature investigates the importance of male teachers and what is being done to encourage a resurgence of masculine input into children’s education. Another hot topic this issue is family history. I was lucky enough last year to travel to Scotland and start to unearth one side of my family’s history, and found the research aspect surprisingly enjoyable. Trawling through archives and discovering who my family were, what they did, and where they lived truly left me with a sense of where I came from. But you don’t have to travel to the other side of the world to make a start on your family tree. We’ve put together some tips to get you started in little old New Zealand. Of course we’ve got all the regular features and competitions too, so start turning the pages for our exciting first edition of 2012. Enjoy!

Term 4, 2012

Tuesday 15 October to no later than Friday 14 December

Term 1, 2013

Between Monday 28 January and Thursday 7 February to 19 April

2012 public holidays remaining

Good Friday - 6 April Easter Monday - 9 April Day after Easter Monday - 10 April (Tuesday) Anzac Day - 25 April Queen’s Birthday - 4 June (Monday) Labour Day - 22 October (Monday) Christmas Day - 25 December Boxing Day - 26 December

Term 4, 2012

Monday 15 October to no later than Thursday 20 December

Term 1, 2013

Between Monday 28 January and Thursday 7 February to 19 April

2012/2013 secondary and composite school term dates Term 2, 2012 Monday 23 April to Friday 29 June

Term 3, 2012

Monday 16 July to Friday 28 September

FROM THE CREATORS OF DESPICABLE ME

IN CINEMAS MARCH 29 4

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Winning the homework battle The evening homework ritual can lead to a lot of stomping, screaming and pouting from children and parents alike.

ome children will do anything do get out of homework. A homework assignment that might take 15 minutes turns into a two-hour battle. If you want to put a stop to homework battles, then do your homework on how to stop them for good!

Here are some tips: •

•

• •

•

Homework can’t be completed if assignments and books are not brought home. Work with your child to develop a good system for making sure homework assignments get home. A daily assignment sheet or an assignment notebook works well to enable your child to keep track of all assignments. Set up a regular time and place to do homework. Find out which time works best for your child. It may be right after school, an hour after, or after dinner. Pick a place to do homework that is not isolated in case your child needs help, but that is also not overly noisy. Sometimes the dining room table works well. Get rid of the distractions. Turn off the television, turndown the music, and restrict any phone calls. Help your child decide which homework to do first. They may want to start with the hardest and move to the easiest or start with the easiest and move to the harder assignments. Or, perhaps they want to attack the subjects in a certain order, such as reading, math, or writing. Offer suggestions, but let your child decide. Make sure that your child understands the assignment and has all the materials needed to complete it. Don’t sit with your child; let them independently do their homework. Be close by in case they need help. If it is a tough math assignment maybe check the first few problems to make sure they have gotten the concepts. Avoid giving away the answer. Ask questions to help your child begin to think through the problem.

•

• •

Encourage your child to take a break if the going gets tough. They can have a snack, put on some music, or shoot a few baskets. Don’t let them linger too long. Then, after 15 minutes, try again. Check finished homework. Look for accuracy, completeness, and neatness. After homework is complete, make sure your child puts finished homework away immediately in their backpack.

It’s also important to: •

Go through your child’s homework folder together each day. • Ask questions about what your child enjoys learning at school. • Praise your child for good homework habits such as completing a difficult assignment, or completing homework without a battle! • Ask to see graded and returned homework papers. Discuss mistakes and check for understanding. • Make contact with the teacher if your child is making consistent errors in one subject area. They may need additional tutoring. • Make sure you display papers that your child is proud of in your home. Be firm, patient and consistent and homework battles will soon be a thing of the past.

By Veronica Scott Article Source EzineArticles.com

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feature story

Getting guys back into education If you live in New Zealand, there is every chance that your child will not have a male teacher until they reach high school.

tartling. But is it important? Education Minister Hon Hekia Parata argues that it is the effectiveness of the teacher, rather than the gender of the teacher, that makes a difference to a child’s learning. A fair claim, perhaps. After all, New Zealand has a stellar reputation for promoting equality between the sexes, particularly as it relates to the workplace. We have women CEOs, women prime ministers, and of course, women principals. We are fairly agreed that there’s no difference in the capabilities of the sexes, so is it really important if only 18 % of primary school teachers, and just 2% of early childhood education teachers, are male? These statistics make teaching one of the most gender-segregated professions in the country, and Early Childhood Council chief executive Peter Reynolds says such segregation “would not be tolerated in law or medicine.” He contends that teaching is more than just an ability to impart a knowledge of the ABCs, and that teachers also play a crucial role in the social development of children. Hence, a positive male influence in the lives of the 31% of New Zealand families that are single parented would be beneficial.

ISS

“Even a small increase in numbers of male teachers would benefit thousands of children and families,” Mr Reynolds says. “It would, for example, impact the many children who lack a reliable male figure in their lives, and especially those who have little but bad experiences of men.” United Future education spokesperson Judy Turner says the education system needs more of a gender balance that reflects society. “The debate is not whether men or women are better teachers – that is not the point. It is that we have a huge shortage of men in the education system, and boys are suffering academically and socially because of it.” Before we beat ourselves up though, it’s important to note that this underrepresentation of masculine influence in early education is not just a New Zealand trend. It’s widespread across the OECD, with New Zealand sitting slightly above the OECD average for the proportion of women in the teaching workforce – right between Finland, where the proportion is higher, and the US, where the proportion is lower. The question is, why? Ministry of Education research shows

that perceptions of the career and of teachers themselves have a powerful negative impact on teaching as a career of choice. There are many misconceptions about teaching, particularly about the salary and working conditions for teachers. “For the majority of people, teaching is seen as a fall-back or second option, something to be considered if other

opportunities fail,” says Education Minister Parata. That’s basically how primary teacher P Moon says he became a teacher. “My friends were going through teachers college. I had no real direction career wise and I had no job at the time, so it seemed like a good idea.” Now, it’s a career he says he would “totally recommend to other guys.”

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CAVE KIDS! 6 - 22 April 2012

K O O B W! NO

Explore awesome Ruakuri Cave these school holidays. With Cave Kids you can hunt for Easter eggs, meet glowworms and explore hidden parts of our cave. Kids also have a delicious lunch included! At magical Waitomo just 2 and a half hours from Auckland. No Adults needed!* Relax with a coffee or see more of Waitomo while the kids are taken care of.

Cave Kids tours run 2pm daily Child (includes lunch)

Adult

$ 30

$ 67

0800 782 5874 www.waitomo.com

Terms and conditions: Recommended for children aged between 5-12 years of age. *Children under the age of 8 must be accompanied by adults. For those 8-12 years old no adult supervision is required. Cave Kids is available from the 6-22 April 12. Children prices are for children aged 4-14 years (proof may be required). Children under 4 years of age are free but must be accompanied with an adult. Adult must be accompanied with a child to travel on this product. Tours depart from the Legendary Black Water Rafting Co., 585 Waitomo Caves Road and Waitomo Glowworm Caves Visitor Centre, 39 Waitomo Caves Road, Waitomo. Photography is permitted in Ruakuri Cave. Bring comfortable walking shoes and a warm jacket. Cave Kids must be booked 24 hours in advance. Allow 3 hours for your trip. Tours are subject to availability and may change without notice. Adult pass doesn’t include meal. Child meal consists of homemade Macaroni cheese with cauliﬂower and optional crispy bacon, served with fresh fruit juice. Substitutes are not available.

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Although he believes women have an advantage in teaching because they are “natural multi-taskers”, it’s a career he finds fulfilling. “I like the reward that you get from building relationships not only with staff but young people and parents. No two days are the same and the school holidays are great. The teaching lifestyle is very family-friendly: whenever you’re on holiday, so are your own kids. Also, salary means you get paid whether you’re on holiday or not, and there are management opportunities if you are ambitious.” The Ministry of Education is working on a new promotion strategy for teacher recruitment that focuses on lifting the status of teaching and increasing the diversity of the teaching workforce, including the proportion of men. Nelson Tasman Kindergartens CEO Wendy Logan says it can’t come soon enough. In the absence of a centralised male recruitment push, they have been making an effort to make kindergartens “bloke friendly” through dad and daughter nights, bloke-only groups, and by encouraging dads with food and coffee. “Positive male role models in the lives of young children, boys in particular, are essential for the development of ongoing social competency and a sense of collective identity,” she says. “We are making a concerted effort to attract males to the early childhood sector.” Wellington Kindergarten Association general manager Amanda Coulston says it is the social aspect that has really made a difference in the lives of kids in Wellington kindergartens. The association ran a pilot programme that saw young men employed in untrained positions alongside current centre staff. Coulston says the difference was

phenomenal, especially for the boys. “One of the really powerful things for the boys is that they see themselves reflected in the young men. The families of the kids have been really positive about it too, and we’ve noticed now that the young fathers spend more time in the kindergarten engaging with the young men rather than just dropping the kids off.” One unexpected outcome of the pilot is that six out of the eight young men who participated have decided to enter early childhood education teacher training. That in itself was completely unexpected, says Coulston. But what was even more unexpected was that a few fathers of kindergarten children decided to pursue teacher training also. “It’s breaking down barriers so that people actually see that early childhood is a valued option and an important place to be. We are doing our children an injustice by not encouraging men to be involved.” Early Childhood Council CEO Reynolds says a recent early childhood conference highlighted that many families would like more men teaching their under fives, and a lack of male teachers in the primary sector too often “quarantined children from all but the most destructive of males.” He believes, and is backed up by Ministry of Education research, that young men are discouraged from teaching in early childhood and primary school roles because they are vulnerable to false accusations of improper practice or abuse in teaching situations. “But the worst of that nonsense is over,” he says, “and there is now a renewed desire from both families and centres for there to be many more men working in

the early childhood sector.” ChildForum early childhood expert Dr Sarah Farquhar says it’s “unhelpful” to revisit thoughts of 1990s paedophile hysteria that have been put to rest within the sector a long time ago. Instead, she says, it’s important to focus on creative ways of attracting men back to teaching.

“There are many men who might consider a job in childcare given the right encouragement, particularly fathers and older men who might be thinking about a career change but who may not be able to spend three or four years obtaining a qualification without work.” By Vanessa O’Brien

Interested in teaching? Here is some information from www. teachnz.govt.nz to get you on track.

Essential skills In order to be an effective teacher in New Zealand, you must have a commitment to, and understanding of, the importance of M ori and Pasifika language, culture and identity. As a teacher you will be involved in creating an education system that supports all young people to excel, whatever education pathway they choose. You will recognise their aspirations, nurture their talents, and share in their expectations of success. You will appreciate their differences, and seek ways to create a culture of respect and understanding in your classroom. Teachers and whanau believe, and research tells us, that young people do best when their families and whanau are actively involved in their schools. So as a teacher you will come into daily contact with people from a range of cultures and all walks of life. That is the beauty of teaching. It is an opportunity to learn as much as to teach, and to give something back to the community you live in. In doing so, you will demonstrate that educational success is real and achievable for everybody.

What will you be paid? The starting salary for a primary school teacher with a Bachelor’s teaching degree is $45,568. In order to progress up the salary scale the teacher must demonstrate that they have met the applicable professional standard. Each school’s Fa m i l y

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board of trustees (most often delegated to the school principal) must attest that the teacher has met this standard. Teachers can progress up to a maximum rate of $67,413 after seven years’ service. Schools can also allocate one or more “units” to teachers in management positions or to those with extra responsibilities. Each unit is worth $4000 and is paid on top of a teacher’s base salary. Higher qualifications, such as a subject or specialist degree held in addition to a teaching qualification, lead to higher starting levels and enable progression to the top of the primary teachers’ salary scale, being $70,877. The current starting salary for a secondary school teacher with a NQF level 7 subject or specialist qualification (the qualification must have at least 72 credits at level 7) and a teacher education qualification is $47,023. In order to progress up the salary scale the teacher must demonstrate that they have met the applicable professional standard. Each school’s board of trustees (most often delegated to the school principal) must attest that the teacher has met this standard. Teachers can progress up to a top rate of $71,000 after seven years’ service. Secondary schools can also allocate “units” to teachers in management positions or to those with extra responsibilities. Each unit is worth $4000 and is paid on top of a teacher’s base salary. Higher subject or specialist qualifications lead to higher starting salary enabling progression to the top of the scale sooner.

WEEK ONE

Monday 9th – Sunday 15th April 2 shows daily 11.00 am and 2.00 pm

WEEK TWO

Danny the Diesel Monday 16th – Friday 20th April 10.00 am – 2.00 pm

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Learning to sense space – why kids may fall out of bed With Caitlin’s new baby brother arriving in just a few months, her parents were getting the baby’s room ready.

hile I was admiring his new room, we talked about moving Caitlin into her first “big girl bed.” Of course, they were worried that she may fall out a few times before she got used to her new space. So the question came up, “Is there a “right” time - developmentally speaking - to move children out of the crib and into a bed of their own?” Now, of course, the answer depends on the child as it always does, but it also has to do with their relationship with space, which is managed by the proprioceptive sense.

Ready for bed?

Here are a few ideas that can help prepare your little one for whenever the big bed day comes:

Body mapping

To help children build their own conscious and intuitive body map, encourage little ones to try to fit in, around, between, through, over and under things they come across. Chances are, they’re doing this naturally all the time.

Take a “big bed” safari

You can’t “sense” what you haven’t experienced, so when the big bed finally arrives, take some time to go on a big bed safari! Be sure to supervise this, and Learning about space it’s even better if you have two adults on Firstly, a child’s spatial awareness is acquired through lots of trial and error either side of the bed. with the wide-awake world around her. 1 Start by having your child crawl As she moves through different size around the bed, touching and spaces and learns to negotiate objects exploring the edges. Do this both on and obstacles around her, she is learning top of and under the covers. to map her own body - to know her own 2 Play some more, having her wiggle size and shape. and then roll around, again, both on With enough practice, that “body map” top of and under the covers. will become intuitive, even to the point 3 Have her crawl around the of “knowing” where she is while she’s perimeter of the bed so she gets a sleeping. feel for the size and scope how the Sensing space intuitively bed changes the dimensions of her The human body has sensory touch room. And don’t forget to explore receptors, known as proprioceptive under the bed too! receptors, in every muscle, tendon 4 After you’ve explored for a while, and ligament. They provide the brain have her close her eyes and roll with important information about towards you, being sure to be there the dynamics of the world around us, if she rolls too far. including where the body or parts of the Create soft landings body are in space at any given time. And of course, it’s always a good idea Now, for adults, a familiar space such to put some soft pillows on the floor as your own bed has been carefully mapped by your proprioceptive sensors, around the bed until she gets used to it. Soon you’ll see that her proprioceptive so you are able to sleep without having senses will adjust and her big girl bed to worry about falling out. You “know” will fit her to a tee, no matter how much how wide your bed is, how much space she tosses and turns! you have in your bed and how much By Gill Connell space your body takes up, which allows Christchurch-based Gill Connell you to toss, turn, and roll over while is founder of Moving Smart Ltd. staying within the edges of the bed She helps parents and teachers even in a new bed. understand the vital link between But children’s proprioceptive senses young children’s physical are still immature. And that’s not only development and readiness for school because of their age. Remember, they and life. For more information, visit are always growing and changing www.movingsmart.co.nz or visit shape too. So mapping their body and refining their understanding of space is a Gill’s blog at movingsmartblog. constant, daily developmental need. blogspot.com.

Bring your creativity to life in 2012!

Margaret-Anne Barnett first discovered The Learning Connexion when her husband found an ad in the local paper. She joined her daughter on a print making weekend class as a casual student and enjoyed it so much that she enrolled into the Certificate of Art and Creativity programme.

could easily be here for the rest of my life and still not make use of everything that’s available.” To find out more about The Learning Connexion phone 0800-278-769 or visit www.tlc.ac.nz. The next intake begins 16 April 2012.

This is what Margaret-Anne says about the distance delivery programme at the Learning Connexion: “Distance delivery works really well for me. With working full-time, I was a bit concerned about whether I would be able to get the hours in, but in fact, it’s been great. “The thing I particularly love about The Learning Connexion campus is the ethos of respect and encouragement. I

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The joy of motherhood Much is said about the challenges and stress of parenthood. However, there is little emphasis placed on the joy of being a mother, celebrating who you are as a woman and including fun in our daily lives.

n an abridged excerpt from her book How to Keep the YOU in Mum, author Karyn Riley highlights the importance of acknowledging joy and gratitude and celebrating the small stuff, too. “Whether you’re a mother, sister, daughter or friend you are you first and foremost – a unique, individual, wonderful woman and person. Becoming a mother is an amazing, incredible experience and taking on the role of parent in addition to our many other roles, responsibilities and demands is something we need to acknowledge, celebrate and congratulate ourselves on. “Yet all too often women don’t celebrate their achievements enough, whether it’s securing a well-paid job, staying home to raise a family, overcoming adversity or simply getting through a difficult day.

Gratitude “Whether celebrating something big or small, it’s important to create time and space to reflect on and celebrate you, your family, and your life as it is right now. Write down, acknowledge and think about what you’re grateful for, becoming consciously aware of the positive aspects of daily life.

Attitude and action “Your attitude is everything. Having a

positive outlook on life not only makes a good day great, it can help you get through any difficult or challenging times. Even if you can’t immediately see anything positive from a situation or event, try to consider what you’ve learnt to apply or do differently in future. Simply deciding to let go of something rather than bearing a grudge or carrying emotional baggage allows you closure and the ability to move forward in life. “A positive attitude and action helps build up your confidence, self-belief and ability to cope with life’s many challenges. Each day decide to take one small step, make one simple change or do one thing differently that will bring you closer to who and where you want to be in life. Apply a simple, step-by-step strategy to accomplish your goals and aspirations. Take action daily, persevere and keep the end in mind – you will achieve more by focusing on less.

Have fun “Sometimes the burden of responsibility and seemingly never-ending demands of parenting means there is little time or energy left for fun. However, kids young and old need to have fun. As parenting author Nigel Latta says: “Fun is the glue that holds families together.” “When was the last time you had fun? Consider simple ways to include fun in your daily life and celebrate the small stuff, such as “me” time, catching up

with friends, spending special time with your children (together and separately), partner and loved ones, and creating family traditions. Brainstorm ideas for “fun-spiration” and keep them handy for everyday use.

The benefits of celebrating “Celebrating ourselves and our successes (whether big or small) is often overlooked or put off due to our busy, demanding, sometimes stressful lives. Celebrating who you are and acknowledging the positive keeps you focused on the present, while motivating you towards future success in life. “Celebrating allows you to simply

enjoy the moment and see the “big picture”; your overall vision for life. It can also help minimise stress and feeling overwhelmed by focusing on what you’ve achieved, rather than beating yourself up with negative self-talk or striving for unattainable “perfection”. “Celebrating is good for us: it improves our overall health and well-being, encourages self-acceptance and selflove, and helps us live and enjoy a wellbalanced life.”

By Karyn Riley How to Keep the YOU in Mum is available from www.rileylife.co.nz and all New Zealand bookstores.

KEEP YOUR KIDS

BUSY WITH HOLIDAY PROGRAMMES

More than just another day at home! The YMCA provides fantastic holiday programme options over the school break We know it can be a challenge to ensure your kids stay entertained all during holidays. The YMCA is here to help by keeping your kids busy these holidays with a range of safe, inclusive and stimulating activities and experiences for children of different ages, sexes and cultural backgrounds. From daytrips around the city to arts and craft projects, from sports competitions and outdoor games to week long holiday camps, we’ve got you covered! Our daily programmes operate Monday to Friday from 11 locations around Auckland. Holiday camps run from four to six days in length at 3 picturesque locations and offer your child the chance to experience independence, self reliance and an opportunity to make great friends. Our daily programme and camp options offer great value for money and our kind and responsible staff are well trained to ensure that we provide the very best care for your child. So don’t delay - bookings are essential! Visit your local YMCA branch for more details or check us out on the web.

Book online at www.ymcaauckland.org.nz or call 0800 534 535 Fa m i l y

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LOCATIONS AUCKLAND WIDE

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letâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s get physical

Get involved in your kidâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s sport The start of a new school year can be a challenging time for kids and parents â&#x20AC;&#x201C; new teachers, new subjects and classroom priorities, new friends â&#x20AC;&#x201C; and sometimes even a new school.

ome kids understandably feel nervous about this time and the experiences of these first few months can shape their impressions of school, and themselves, well into the school year. Sport and recreation can be a great vehicle to overcome these challenges and help your child make friends, stay active, and have fun. Not only does involvement in sport help kids establish social connections, enhance their selfesteem and sense of self-worth, but involvement in physical activity also enhances their performance inside the classroom. But itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s not just about dropping the kids off at the school gate and leaving it to the school to provide an environment that will develop happy and active kids. Sport is a family affair and a childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s experience of it is enhanced by the active involvement of parents and caregivers. Sport NZâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s community sport and recreation manager Roger Wood says people donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t often appreciate the role that parents and caregivers have in

creating a positive sporting experience for kids. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Parents are an integral part of sport and school life. Parents can be involved in school sport in many ways, from coaching teams, organising sports days and lunchtime games and fundraising for teams through to supporting their children to just have a go.â&#x20AC;?Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s more than just about being a volunteer to do a job, says Roger. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Often parents experience as much enjoyment as the kids, as it can bring families/whanau together, parents can get to know their childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s friends, their friendsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; parents, and build relationships with the teachers and the principal of the school. Principals often tell us that the best place to meet parents to discuss their kidsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; academic progress is on the side-line of sports activitiesâ&#x20AC;?. Sport can also provide parents with an opportunity to learn new skills, increase their own self-esteem and confidence and gain an understanding of how different sports and activities operate. The enthusiasm and involvement of parents has a significant impact on a childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s on-going involvement in sport. Their opinions and actions play a large

Experience the difference at Fulton Swim School Discover the wonderful world of swimming with Fulton Swim School. Come and experience the Fulton Swim School difference: all the swimming teachers are qualified through AustSwim and Swimming New Zealand and have been trained extensively in the Fulton swim school programme. The programme was established by its founder, Daniel Fulton, and tailored

to improve confidence, development, safety and fun in an aquatic environment. Fulton has a clean, warm teaching environment in which small groups enable your child to learn faster. Franklinâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s number one swimming education provider is located approximately five minutes from Pukekohe, Waiuku and all main centres in Franklin.

As a parent you could also assist in:

part in determining:

â&#x20AC;˘ Which sport/s their child will be

â&#x20AC;˘ Lunchtime/after school games or

involved in.

activities.

How much time will be devoted to sport.

â&#x20AC;˘ Coaching, managing or refereeing. â&#x20AC;˘ Transport. â&#x20AC;˘ Helping with equipment and new

â&#x20AC;˘ Whether their child continues their sport participation.

ground markings.

Sometimes becoming involved in sport and recreation at school is as easy as simply asking to play. This means adults at times joining in the activity themselves, understanding movement skill components, offering feedback and encouragement, instruction (at times) and support in the provision of activities.

â&#x20AC;˘ Assisting the management of interschool competitions.

â&#x20AC;˘ Walking to school buses.

Ask yourself, could you help to make one or more of these things happen? What other ideas or skills do you have? Give it a try.

By Roger Wood, Sport NZ

www.familytimes.co.nz

Fa m i l y

Times

Family physical activity

let’s get physical

Keep family-fit this autumn with these fun events and activities. A number of these challenges allow you to participate as part of a family team. 31 March

At last an ocean swim race for kids! Take the plunge at Takapuna beach where the emphasis is fun as well as swim and water safety. To enter you must be between six-10 years and be capable of swimming 200m. Entry $20 each. Registration www.oceanswim.co.nz.

1 April

Take part in the Omaha Classic Run/ Walk, one hour north of Auckland on Omaha beach. There is 10km, 5km, 2km and the free junior dash. To register visit www.omahaclassic.co.nz.

1 April

The Foundation for Youth Development is walking for kiwi kids to fundraise and help reach more young people every year, build great communities and change lives. Takes place in Huia, Waitakere Ranges. There are 2km, 5km and 10km tracks. From 8.15am. Adults $10, children $5. Registration, www.fyd. org.nz.

1 April

Youthtown Shore to Shore is the North Shore’s largest annual fun run/walk and it celebrates 28 years in 2012. All money raised goes back to participating schools to help fund the purchase of sports equipment. The event starts at Takapuna Grammar, 210 Lake Road at 9am sharp and heads along Takapuna and Milford beaches before finishing at the Milford Reserve, $7 entry.

Fa m i l y

Times

10 April The Hibiscus Coast Swim-Run Series is a low-key, fun event where the emphasis is on participation first and friendly competition second. Registration from 5.30pm, races from 6.15pm, Eastern end of Stanmore Bay Beach, Whangaparaoa. Adults $5, kids $2.

15 April (Sunday) Orewa Beach hosts the scenic half marathon for all ages, just 45 minutes north of Auckland City. Included in the events to choose from is a 5km beach walk/run aimed at families. Entry prices start at $15/child. www. orewabeachhalfmarathon.com.

15 April (Sunday)

13 May (Sunday)

6 May (Sunday)

The Hobsonville Point Run Challenge is for everyone in the family, and also includes a 3km kids’ adventure run, which weaves itself through the old Air Force buildings, through obstacle challenges and includes a chance along the way to “dunk the baddie”! To enter visit www.runwaychallenge.co.nz

WhyWomenRun Events will attract both the serious competitive racer and the occasional runner/walker to Cornwall Park, Auckland City on Mother’s Day morning. This is an event encouraging women and children of all ages to enjoy the experience of completing a 5km or 10km race in a friendly, nonconfrontational environment. www. whywomenrun.org.

For girls and their mothers (or grandmothers): check out the Tri Woman All Female Triathalon Series at Point Chevalier. Entrants must be 11 years or older and can enter individually or as a team. Challenge yourselves to this swim/bike/run event. Enter before 20 April at www.tri.co.nz. Compiled by Lee Keenan

Get a team together for race two of the Run Auckland Series, taking place at Harbourview Peoples Park, Te Atatu Peninsula. There is a 5km or 10km option for adults and 2km or 4km for kids. Info at www.runauckland.co.nz.

22 April

www.familytimes.co.nz

Great giveaways for autumn…....

Lee Keenan visited Red Beach Primary School to talk with kids about how they manage stress.

Sam Howarth, age 10

Beyond the Baby Blues

My brother stresses me out the most. We fight a few times a week and it’s usually about stuff we both want at the same time, like Nintendo. I also stress about homework deadlines. Dad is pretty strict with it but I want to play. I can tell when my Mum gets stressed because she rushes around lots. I worry about Taikwondo too because I want to go up from red stripe to black.

The complete Perinatal Depression and Anxiety Handbook

Beyond the Baby Blues is the first comprehensive Australasian resource guide to perinatal depression and anxiety (PND). Caring professionals, family members and friends explain how they helped PND sufferers, and how their involvement affected their own lives, while self-care strategies will help parents take care of themselves and their families. This book is deeply personal, supportive and encouraging while soundly steeped in science. Enter now to win one of five copies of this fantastic book.

It’s Au falling darke for w a draw Autum $30 p

Three

Creat and e Box 3 2012.

Maatua Hiramana-Rua, age 10

Thomas and Friends Series 12 See Thomas and his friends return in series 12 with all new animated effects. Now for the first time ever all 20 episodes of these thrilling railway adventures are available on one DVD! Join Thomas and his friends for carnivals, surprise parties, heroes and hot air balloons. Thomas learns that no special job is more important than friendship and there are peeps and whistles a plenty! Available at all good DVD retailers. Enter now to win one of 10 copies of this DVD from Roadshow

WIN,WIN,

WIN

Waitomo Glowworm Caves family pass Be amazed by thousands of magical glowworms above as you glide gently by boat through the world famous Waitomo Glowworm Caves. Become a part of the 120-year history by venturing through this must-see, uniquely New Zealand attraction. Combined with Ruakuri Cave, you’ll experience the spectacular spiral entrance and its unique construction and marvel at the incredible limestone formations and crystal tapestries. Be in to win a $179.00 family pass to Waitomo Glowworm Caves and Ruakuri Cave (two adults and two children up to 12 years) in conjunction with Family Times.

Pocahontas and Pocahontas II on DVD Pocahontas: Journey to a New World is a magnificent, fun-filled adventure that finds Pocahontas setting sail for an exciting new world; England. With her trusted companions, Flit, Meeko and Percy along for the ride, this spectacular film promises plenty of fun, thrills and laughter for everyone as Disney’s classic Pocahontas story continues. Combined with the original Pocahontas, Disney’s beautifully animated masterpiece, this double DVD prize will be fantastic family viewing. Family Times has five copies of Pocahontas and Pocahontas II on DVD to give away.

I have two younger brothers that stress me out heaps. My Nan gets stressed because she has to look after all three of us. I get worried about judo too. It’s hard remembering to get the uniform ready and into my school bag. I wish that people would just calm down a bit when they get too stressed. I just try to go off and do something else if it happens to me.

------

Paris Manukia, age 10

I have two twin brothers who are eight and they like to tease and copy me and we sometimes fight a lot which stresses me out. I do netball and dancing which I love and it doesn’t stress me but homework can. It’s hard getting stuff finished and handed in at the right time. I wish my parents could sometimes be a bit more patient maybe when they stress out.

Cong winne Art G Winn

Lore

Theo

Umai Jordan Healy, age 10

I play coast rep basketball in the under 13s and it’s really good but the coaches sometimes stress and other players do to if someone in the team loses the game. I have two sisters and that’s hard because they always hog the TV! Mum stresses the most out of my parents but I think that’s because she’s around in the day with us. I suppose we should talk more when we are worried too.

Battle Jade’s Summer of Horses – Pony Tales Book Four

Somehow, complicate antidote. F media com and father New Zeala wisdom sh bringing u used by bu Family Tim Battlefield

Jade’s gets some good news. Becca’s Aunt Flora, who has a riding school by the beach at Ocean Bay, is looking for a bombproof beginner’s mount - namely, Pip, her beautiful old mare! To Jade, Samudra Riding School is heaven. Unfortunately, a property developer thinks so, too, and is determined to build luxury beach houses on the horses’ land. Jade must find a way to save perfect Pip’s new home. Family Times has 10 copies of Jade’s Summer of Horses to give away.

WIN,WIN,

WIN

Ben 10 Live: Time Machine Big Chill

SPYKIDS4: All the Time in the World On the surface, Marissa Cortez Wilson (Jessica Alba) has it all; married to a famous spy-hunting television reporter, a new baby and intelligent twin step kids. But in reality, trying to mother Rebecca (Rowan Blanchard) and Cecil (Mason Cook), who clearly don’t want her around, is her toughest challenge yet. Also, her husband, Wilbur (Joel McHale), wouldn’t know a spy if he lived with one which is exactly the case - Marissa’s a retired secret agent. Helped by some mind-blowing gadgets, they just may be able to save the world. Available at all good DVD retailers. Enter now to win one of 10 copies of this DVD from Roadshow. 12

www.familytimes.co.nz

Swampﬁre

Ben Tennyson

CATCH THE BEST OF BEN 10 EVERY SUNDAY @ 9.30AM, ONLY ON CARTOON NETWORK!

Performing in Wellington, Hamilton, Tauranga and Auckland from 14 – 21 April. The TV show Ben 10 is one of Cartoon Network’s most popular programmes, and now, for the very first time, its latest live action stage show. Cartoon Network’s Ben 10 Live: Time Machine – is coming to Wellington, Hamilton, Tauranga and Auckland this April. Don’t miss Ben 10 characters live with the coolest costumes, rad stunts, awesome effects and laughs for the whole family. For more information and ticket information visit www. CartoonNetwork.co.nz/Ben10Live. Family Times has three family passes to this fantastic show in Auckland to give away. Entries close 3rd of April

For the ﬁrst time ever in New Zealand! Catch all three of Cartoon Network hit series’ Ben 10, Ben 10 Alien Force and Ben 10 Ultimate Alien come together in one LIVE theatre show for the whole family.

CartoonNetwork.co.nz/ben10live

Family

Times

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Dr Seuss’ THE LORAX

to talk

The Family Times Design Competition

mes a me time, Dad is y Mum out to black.

It’s Autumn! Leaves are turning golden and falling, the mornings are chilly, it’s getting darker and firewood is being stacked ready for winter. This issue we would love to see a drawing of your favourite things about Autumn. Draw it for us, and be in to win a $30 prize pack from Crayola!

From the creators of Despicable Me and the imagination of Dr. Seuss comes the 3D-CG feature Dr. Seuss’ THE LORAX. The animated adventure opens on 29 March and follows the journey of a 12-year-old as he searches for the one thing that will enable him to win the affection of the girl of his dreams. To find it he must discover the story of the Lorax, the grumpy yet charming creature who fights to protect his world. Family Times has 10 double passes to Dr. Seuss’ THE LORAX and 10 activity books courtesy of Harper Collins to give away.

Three entry age groups: preschool (age 1-4), 5-8, 9-12.

The Meridian season of Angelina Ballerina’s big audition

Create your design on an A5 sheet or download the template and entry form from www.familytimes.co.nz. Post in to PO Box 36 004, Christchurch 8146. Entries close on 22 April 2012.

Angelina loves to dance and dreams of becoming a famous ballerina. Miss Lilly is her ballet teacher and Alice Nimbletoes, her best friend - characters that cannot fail to charm with their love of colour and pretty costumes. In this production Angelina prepares for her most important performance ever in front of the Camembert Academy judges. Definitely one for all those budding ballerinas. Enter now to win an adult and child ticket for 12 April, at 10.30am, ASB Theatre, Aotea Centre. Entries close 3rd of April

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Congratulations to our Jandal design poster competition winners from our last issue and thanks to the Christchurch Art Gallery Te Puna O Waiwhetu for their help with judging. Winners are: Lorenzo Tetley from Te Titahi Bay, one – four years(right) Theodore Hua from Christchurch, five – eight years (left) Umain Ahmed from Orewa, nine – 12 years (middle)

Puss in Boots on DVD

Share the fun at MOTAT MOTAT is New Zealand’s largest transport, technology and social history museum and a great day out for the whole family. Spread across 40 acres from its Victorian Village to the award-winning Avitaion Display Hall, MOTAT will take you on an interactive journey to explore and discover the achievements and stories that have helped shape New Zealand from the 1800s to today. Investigate the many collection objects, stories and interactive activities that MOTAT has to offer as well as its fun holiday experiences, educational trails and exhibitions. We have five family passes to MOTAT to give away worth $35 each.

Somehow, somewhere parenting has become far too complicated and serious. Battlefield Wisdom is the perfect antidote. From Nigel Latta, respected clinical psychologist, media commentator, parenting expert, bestselling author and father of two, comes a brand new book that will help all New Zealand parents. Battlefield wisdom shares Latta’s top tips for bringing up children that can be used by busy parents, everyday. Family Times has five copies of Battlefield Wisdom to give away.

IN, W , WIN

WIN

Just tick the things you want to win

Munchkin nappy disposal

and n 10 is ammes, action Time

Ben 10 stunts, mily. For www. mes ow in April

Times

“I don’t know how she does it” on DVD One for the mums! Kate Reddy devotes her days to her job with a Boston-based financial management firm. At night she goes home to her adoring architect husband Richard and their two young children. It’s a non-stop balancing act. When Kate gets handed a major new account that will require frequent trips to New York, Richard also wins the new job he’s been hoping for—and both will be spreading themselves even thinner. Complicating matters is Kate’s charming new business associate Jack Abelhammer. Based on the critically acclaimed bestseller by Allison Pearson. Enter now to win “I don’t know how she does it” on DVD from Roadshow.

Family

Times

WIN

Way before Puss ever met Shrek, our suave and furry feline hero goes on a swashbuckling ride, as he teams with mastermind Humpty Dumpty and the street-savvy Kitty Softpaws to steal the famed goose that lays the golden eggs. Released onto DVD and Blu-ray from 11 April. Family Times has five copies of Puss in Boots on DVD to give away.

Battlefield Wisdom by Nigel Latta

The Munchkin Nappy Disposal system uses innovative technology, including a unique hygiene vent that dispenses baking soda, to neutralise odours before a self-sealing system tightly locks away bad smells. The automated system can be operated with one hand – leaving your other hand free to look after your bub! The system is available at all Baby City stores. Family Times has four Munchkin Nappy Systems including a refill bag pack - to give away.

WIN,WIN,

Autumn 2012 Beyond the Baby Blues Munchkin Nappy Disposal System Waitomo Caves MOTAT Ben 10 Tickets Dr Seuss THE LORAX Angelina Ballerina Battlefield Wisdom

Pocahantas & Pocahantas II Spykids4 Thomas and Friends Jade’s Summer of Horses Puss in Boots I don’t know how she does it

Name Address City Phone To be in the draw to win, enter online at www.familytimes.co.nz or write your name and address on the back of an envelope or postcard and send to: Auckland Competition, P O Box 36 004, Christchurch to reach us by 22nd April 2012, unless stated otherwise. Only one entry per household.

www.familytimes.co.nz

cool activities

Calendar of Events Summer may be over, but the mild weather is hanging in there. Make the most of it before winter arrives and check out some of the family friendly events below. Happy Easter! April (every Sunday)

Go along and soak up the atmosphere of the Manurewa Markets, Northcrest Way. Open rain or shine with its huge variety of stalls, there is sure to be something for all members of the family. 7am-12pm.

4.30pm, Falls Park, Alderman Drive, Henderson.

1 April

Every Wednesday

Emerge your toddlers in the Safari Programme and get up close to the specimans at the Auckland Museum. 10.00am-10.45am, gold coin entry. www.aucklandmuseum.co.nz

Every Weekend

Create some crafty, crawly creatures in the Weird and Wonderful Gallery. Gold coin entry. Full details at www. aucklandmuseum.co.nz

From now

(for further dates and venues in 2012 visit www.In2it.co.nz) Join the In2it Street Crew as they bring free outdoor art sessions to young people in partnership with Auckland City Council. All art material and resources will be provided. These free events are open to those between 10-17 years and everyone is welcome whatever their skill level.

1 April

Celebrate Auckland’s unique cultural diversity with people from more than 48 nationalities at the Auckland International Cultural Festival. Enjoy dance, music, and 130 stalls featuring great food. This free event is on 10am5pm, War Memorial Park, 13 May Road, Mt Roskill.

.. .

1 April

Here’s a great free event for the whole family; bring a picnic, enjoy an afternoon in the sun and listen to the sounds of the Kumeu Brass Band, 3pm-

ARTZ N SH W

6-22 April

Take up a class in beading at the Bead Hold in Point Chevalier. Classes are for those five years and up. For details and bookings visit www.thebeadhold.co.nz or phone

1 April-6 May

Wanted! Solve the mystery of who murdered Professor Spicer and you could win an i-pod touch at the Auckland Museum. $5.00, under three free. www. auckland.museum.co.nz

Auckland’s holiday programme. Book for one of the daily events or go on a camp. Great prices, trained staff and venues all over Auckland. Bookings are essential, www.ymcaauckland.org.nz.

09-845-1345.

7,8,9 April

Celebrate the 2012 grape harvest at Soljans Vineyard annual Berba Croatian Harvest Festival, State Highway 16, Kumeu. Winery tours for the adults, family fun events and free daily grape stomping. For full details visit the events The Karaka Vintage Day, corner Linwood and news page at www.soljans.co.nz. and Blackridge Roads, Karaka, is an 7-22 April exciting, educational family day from Paint a plate the Navy way at the 9.30am-4pm. Amazing vintage cars, Torpedo Bay Navy Museum, Devonport. military vehicles and trucks. Horse and There are templates and stencils to help wagon rides, stalls and bands. Family pass $20. www.karakavintageday.co.nz. you, or you can create your own design. Four sessions daily, $5. Bookings www. 1 April navymuseum.mil.nz. (this continues every second week- for 10-21 April full dates www.maritimemuseum.co.nz) Go along to the enchanting Wind For a true Auckland harbour adventure, and the Willows production at The board the vintage SS Puke steam tug Pumphouse Theatre. Dress up as your boat. Trips last 15 minutes. Adults $2 and children $1. Departs from the tidal steps, Karanga Plaza, Viaduct Harbour between 11am-1pm and 2pm-3.30pm.

favourite character from the show and take part in the parade before it starts. Performances at 10.30am and 1pm. Tickets www.pumphouse.co.nz.

11-15 April

The Meridian Season of Angelina Ballerina’s Big Audition is coming to Auckland. Performances are in Auckland City 11-13 April, 10.30am and 1.30pm and in Takapuna on the 15 April, 3pm and 6.30pm. For full details and bookings visit www.nzballet.org.nz

13-15 April

Lake House in Takapuna will come alive with art action this April: wood carving, workshops and demonstrations in sculpture, painting, ceramics, textiles

1 April

Enjoy a free family concert at the Domain Wintergardens in Parnell, 6pm to 7.30pm. This will be a concert of bluegrass and country music from Beverly and the Clench Mountain Boys. www.musicintheparks.co.nz.

5-9 April

Experience more than 160 years of history at the Royal Easter Show at the ASB Showgrounds. Enjoy the rides, the stalls, the food and the entertainment. For details regarding times and parking visit www.royaleastershow.co.nz.

6-22 April

There is fun to be found at YMCA

School Holiday Performing Artz Workshops

Artz on Show students practising their zombie moves at the King of Pop workshop. Students aged five-15 participate in a range of classes with professional tutors, learning and performing dance, drama, vocals, art and much more.

E C A P S OUTER

EPSOM

Raye Freedman Arts Centre Epsom Girls Grammar

MILFORD Westlake Boys High School

BOTANY Botany Downs Secondary College

HAMILTON Southwell School, Hamilton

For ages 5 - 15 years

ENROL NOW! 14

www.familytimes.co.nz

Phone: 0800 ONSHOW (667469) Email: artz@onshow.net.nz Facebook: www.facebook.com/artzonshow www.onshow.net.nz Fa m i l y

Times

Entertainment and more. From 10am-4pm, 37 Fred Thomas Drive, Takapuna. Free entry, costs vary for workshops. For full details visit www.lakehousearts.org.nz.

17-20 May

The Hutchwilco New Zealand Boat Show is back. There are dozens of demonstrations and activities including fishing competitions and colouring contests for the kids, wakeboarding, windsurfing and lifesaving demonstrations. ASB Showgrounds. www.boatshow.co.nz.

2-4 June

Train enthusiasts should visit Manukau Live Steamers in Centre Park, Robertson Road in Manukau. Weather permitting, the public can come and ride the trains and see the various visiting locomotives. From 11am-4pm.

The first term of the year is coming to an end. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s time to start thinking about entertainment ideas to keep those busy little bodies and minds occupied during the break and into the winter. Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve put together some fun options to get you started. Have a happy and safe Easter! Are you being served

Playhouse Theatre presents â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Are you being servedâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;- a classic, crazy comedy. 15 Glendale Road, Glen Eden. 14th -28th April. Bookings taken now on 09 361 1000 or www.iticket.co.nz

Auckland Dockline Tram

9-10 June

situated on the Harbour waterfront. Open 10am-5pm. Adults $5, children $1, under-fives free. More details at www.aucklandtram.co.nz.

Crystal Mountain

Birthday parties are a specialty at Crystal Mountain, so make your childs day by planning their party with their receptionist today. Meet the loveable animals and have fun on the activities. Phone 09-833-5033 www. crystalmountain.co.nz

The Lorax

On at the ASB Showgrounds in Greenlane, the Gluten Free Food and Allergy Show is dedicated to bringing parents ideas and solutions for a wide range of allergy and intolerance issues. From 10am-5pm. Adults $10, kids under 10 free.

Dr. Seussâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; The Lorax is an adaptation of Dr. Seussâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; classic tale about the enduring power of hope. In Cinemas from 29 March, starring the voice talents of Zach Efron and Taylor Swift. A must see!

1-24 June

The Auckland Festival of Photography takes place within Aucklandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s major galleries, project spaces and public spaces, so all Aucklanders can discover the art of photography. For the full programme check out www. photographyfestival.org.nz. Compiled by Lee Keenan

Kumgang Taekwondo

Do you want to get fit, lose weight, get stronger, more flexible, increase coordination, learn to defend yourself and become bully safe? Or learn self-control, respect, get confidence and find new friends? At Kumgang Taekwondo you can get it all and much more. Kumgang Taekwondo has classes for five to seven-yearolds, children, teens, adults, ladies only, families, beginners and advanced. Check out www.kumgang. co.nz for more information or phone 09-479-9180.

cool activities

The Royal New Zealand Balletâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Meridian Season of Angelina Ballerinaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Big Audition is a production for the younger audience in mind. Auckland 11-13 April, Takapuna 15 April. Bookings at www.nzballet.org.nz. life in one awesome live theatre event. Tickets at www.cartoonnetwork.co.nz/ ben10live.

Holiday Specials YMCA

YMCA offer holiday daily programmes as well as camps for children of all ages and abilities. Great value for money, well trained staff and venues all over Auckland. Bookings essential at www. ymcaauckland.org.nz

Jump aboard the beautifully refurbished Auckland Dockline Tram as it loops around the new Wynyard Quarter

Unique kidsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; furniture for special little folks

Fun and childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s furniture are two things that go hand in hand. Little Folksâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; furniture is designed to be fun and exciting and both you and your kids will simply love it. Contemporary pieces with sleek lines and bold designs transform any kidsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; room into a wonderland where they will happily eat, sleep and play. There are safari animals to captivate your little eco warrior and bright pink butterflies and ladybirds to enchant your little princess.

Artz on Show Book for a class at the Bead Hold these holidays.

The Bead Hold

The Bead Hold is Aucklands largest bead shop providing top quality beads, tools, books and beading classes. 161 Point Chevalier Road, Auckland. MondayFriday 9.30am-5pm, Saturday and Sunday 10am-4pm. www.beadhold. co.nz

Ben 10 LIVE

Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t miss Cartoon Networkâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Ben 10 Live: Time Machine during the school holidays. For the first time in New Zealand, all three Ben 10 seriesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; come to

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Artz on show, a Performing Arts Company for children, are providing workshops for children aged five to fifteen. Workshops - Epsom and Botany, 10th-13th April and Hamilton and the North Shore, 16th-20th April. Theme is Outer Space. Bookings www. artzonshow.co.nz.

The Bead Hold

What a great boredom buster this winter - beading classes at the Bead Hold in Point Chevalier. From ages five up. Full details and bookings phone 09-8451345 or www.thebeadhold.co.nz

Waitomo Caves

With Cave Kids, hunt for Easter eggs, meet glowworms or simply explore! Adults not required (except with those under eight), so relax with a coffee or see more of Waitomo Caves, just two and a half hours from Auckland. 6th22nd April. Prices and tour times www. waitomo.com

Auckland Museum

Join a two day illustration workshop and create your own picture book. 9th-10th April and 16th-17th April For over eight year olds. Bookings required. Celebrate Sir George Greys 200th birthday. Follow the map and find the treasure. 9th-20th April. Learn how to use and create your own nature journal. 14th and 21st April. For over eight year olds. Bookings required Full details www.aucklandmuseum.co.nz Compiled by Lee Keenan.

Fa m i l y

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healthy living

The vege patch with Jonesy Winter has us in its grip now, so your winter veggie patch should be all sorted.

carrot and onion, to which you add more much needed trace elements. Chook vege, cereal or meat. and pigeon manure is also rich in potash and potassium, which is vital for good As your garden becomes empty after fruiting and flowers. the summer harvest, it is time to dig in the compost that you have made from garden waste and lawn clippings. Once dug in, you can sow some oat seed or lupin seed and leave for winter. This is a good way to fix nitrogen in the soil for next season.

The Brussels sprouts will have small sprouts on them. Keep on top of the aphids by washing them off with the hose. The leeks need to have the soil pushed up around them (moulded up) to make nice, long, white leeks and they love some liquid fertiliser. It’s not too late to plant silver beet, spinach, kale and also broccoli and cauliflower plants to keep that great supply of winter veges going for your family or for other families that might enjoy any surplus. If you have pumpkins, leave to grow as long as possible: pick after the first frost, and remember to cut them with a good stem still on and put them in a nice warm place with plenty of air around them to dry. Parsnips can be dug after tops have dried off. They have their best flavour after one or two frosts. Prepare them and freeze them for use later. It saves digging in the cold winter mud when you want a parsnip for dinner. Yams form when tops die off so better left in the garden and dig them as required. Potatoes that you planted in January will be ready to eat as new potatoes. It’s a good time now to plant celery for those veggie soups in the cold of winter. Pick a nice, sunny spot under the eaves of the house where frosts can’t get them and you will have celery all winter. Whatever you cook, all stocks are made of celery,

Any farm or stable manure must be well rotted before you apply it. These manures are rich in nitrogen and other

Winter is a great time to get your kids in the kitchen and encourage them to cook snacks, baking and meals. Your business could been seen in this space Please contact us to discuss 0800 28 5510 admin@ familytimes.co.nz

Canterbury-based Airborne Honey, the country’s oldest honey company, says questions about the pollen count of some New Zealand honey need to be asked. A recent US survey found that 75 per cent of American honey was processed to the point that it lost its health benefits and traceability. Airborne Honey chief executive Peter Bray says the problem isn’t just limited to that part of the world. “Honey that’s been ultra filtered to remove impurities and keep it from crystallising quickly leads to other problems. There are other ways to keep honey pure, that also retain its natural properties and the ability to know where it came from. Those two things are so very important to New Zealand’s image as a supplier of fresh, untouched food.”

www.familytimes.co.nz

Alan Jones (Jonesy) is the 2010 New Zealand Gardener of the Year. He looks after Leeston Consolidated School’s veggie gardens and keeps school parents up-to-date with tips for home gardens.

Harraways oats – the perfect winter treat

Quality counts, says New Zealand’s oldest honey company

Mr Bray says most New Zealand consumers are probably unaware that some honey is processed in this way. “The reality is that so much natural food is significantly altered today. We’d like to see tougher regulations around labelling.” Airborne Honey has brought together a century of honey making experience with sophisticated processing and testing facilities to offer a consistently high quality, traceable product. Its unique “Honest, Undamaged and Traceable” labelling tells the customer exactly which variety of honey is in each jar and precisely where it came from, right back to the drum of honey in an apiary. “We’re a family owned

These are a few jobs to do to keep the soil in good health so your veggie plot is ready for you to enjoy next spring.

Encouraging children to explore fun natural breakfast foods is an easy way to start. Oats make a simple and quick hot and tasty porridge and you can have fun adding spices, fruit and yoghurt. Scotch Oat Hotcakes or Harraways Oat Waffles are fun to make and eat; these foods keep well and are great in lunch boxes or as an afterschool snack. Oats can be used in many dishes: consider oats the healthy alternative to breadcrumbs and check out the Harraways meatballs recipe at www. harraways.co.nz. In fact, oats can be used in many dishes - such as stews and casseroles - to make expensive ingredients go further. Increasing the use of oats in daily meals and baking is also an easy way to increase dietary fibre levels for your family. School students, watch out for the New Zealand Food Week 7-13 May. You can win great prizes like an iPod touch by sending in your favourite family meal recipe. Visit http://www.justcook. co.nz/ Don’t forget to check out www. harraways.co.nz for more exciting

recipes and ideas on how to add more fibre into your diet, and connect with Harraways on Facebook.

Harraways meatballs 1kg beef mince 3 cups Harraways Rolled Oats 1-2 cups finely chopped onions 3 eggs ¼ cup milk or water 2 teaspoons ground coriander or chopped fresh parsley Beat eggs in a large bowl. Add liquid, salt and pepper to taste and coriander or any herb of your choice (chopped parsley is tasty), mix in chopped onions and stir in beef mice and rolled oats. Shape mixture into meatballs and place in well oiled pan. Bake in oven at 180 C for 20-30 minutes. Once cooked, serve with your favourite tomato sauce. Alternatively, you can add a tin of chopped tomatoes 10 minutes after placing in the oven. This makes enough meatballs to serve eight people. Cooked meatballs freeze well, and reheat from frozen with ease.

business still going strong after more than a century because we’re able to guarantee what’s in each jar we sell,” says Mr Bray. “We’re simply calling for the enforcement of these same standards industry wide.”

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Set your children on a positive financial path We teach our children to ride bikes and write the alphabet, but lessons about money are just as important.

ntroducing the idea of saving early might just arm them with good money sense for life.

Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s never too early to start a savings account for your child; in fact many parents set one up for their baby soon after its birth.

est. Your child will receive a monthly statement, which is a great teaching tool and clearly shows them where their money is and how much they have saved.

If you give them pocket money, encourage them to save a certain perPiggy banks were traditionally seen as centage of their â&#x20AC;&#x153;wagesâ&#x20AC;? every week. That way, the idea of saving a portion a way to teach children about saving but they do have their limitations when of their income becomes an everyday habit and hopefully one that they will it comes to learning money lessons. continue throughout their life. One of the major drawbacks is that children literally canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t see how much When they decide they want the latest money they have in their piggy bank. Lego or are keen to see a movie, show Therefore, they miss out seeing the them how much they have in their savidea of accumulation. ings account and calculate how their savings will be affected by spending Nor can their piggy bank reward their the money. savings habit by dishing out interest. But a savings account at a bank can do Allow them to spend some of their both. savings at times so they see their savMany banks now offer childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s savings accounts so ask if your bank if they have the option. If they donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t, then find a bank that does. A savings account will give your child a real life example of how money grows and allows you to teach them the concepts of interest and compound inter-

ings go up and down and learn about the concepts of wants versus needs. Help them set savings goals so they feel a sense of achievement when they reach their goal and are rewarded with the item they saved to buy. These real life experiences will provide them with examples to discuss with you and they

will experience the associated consequences when they are faced with decisions about savings versus spending.

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Teach them positive money habits now and help them set them up for a financially savvy future.

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Savvy kids donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t catch scams This week take some time to talk to the family about scams. These are being tramped into homes like muddy footprints. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s time for some internet hygiene. Start by checking the expiry date on your internet security. If itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s beyond its use-by date then itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s time to upgrade. Good security can stop malware and spyware from breeding in your computer. Malware and spyware are used by scammers and hackers to access your information and to use your computer as a zombie to hide their activities and to send out more scams and spam. Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t let in creepy crawly virus technicians. Make sure everyone in the house knows that a phone call telling you that you have a virus on the computer is a scam. These people have been calling Fa m i l y

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everyone, even people who donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have computers. Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t share drinks or passwords or credit card numbers. Talk about why itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s important not to share passwords, even with best friends. Be careful of letting your kids play with your smart phone or iPad since some of the payment systems donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t need any extra confirmation. Teach your kids how to check out deals online. Show your kids how to check that the payment system is safe and how to spot offers that look too good to be true. Fraud Awareness Week runs from 19-26 March. For more information on how to spot scams visit www. scamwatch.govt.nz.

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Handy websites for exploring your family history Discovering your family history can be an incredibly rewarding – although time-consuming – project. We’ve put together a few handy websites that can help get you started. www.natlib.govt.nz National Library of New Zealand is a rich resource for those seeking information about their family. You can discover effective guides to start you on your journey, recommended reading, and research tips. You can search the National Library’s genealogical research directory or family research directory to try to locate information by surname. If you are super keen, you can visit the National Library and check out their microfilm too.

kiwitrees.net There are plenty of international sites on which you host your own family tree, but here is one specifically catered to kiwis.

www.findmypast.co.uk If you family tree has its roots back in the UK, check out this site. You can create your family tree for free, as well as store photos and information online. You can search records from the armed forces, census and land

surveys, institutions and organisations, and much more.

www.dia.govt.nz The Department of Internal Affairs holds records of births, deaths and marriages in New Zealand, dating back to 1843. Some information can be accessed for free, but there is a charge for some requests.

www.pycroft.co.nz This website lists a bunch of resources available at your fingertips to assist you in your family research in New Zealand. It includes links for cemeteries, church archives, government websites, libraries and museums, both nationally and locally.

whakapapa.maori.org.nz If you identify as New Zealand Maori, this website can help you locate your whakapapa and trace your family history. You can place ads/notices to try and locate long lost family or to identify a part of your family tree that is missing.

In search of dry nights If your four-year old is wetting the bed, try not to worry about it too much. Bedwetting is not considered a problem until seven years. Luckily, this is a good age to talk it over with your little one and start trying the bedwetting solutions below.

Practical bedwetting Solutions for Children Try these tested and proven solutions to stop bedwetting in young children: • Offer plenty of fluids during the day, aiming for six – seven waterbased drinks at regular intervals. • Establish a good daytime routine for going to the bathroom, say every three – four hours. • Don’t let them have caffeinated drinks such as chocolate and fizzy drinks before bedtime as these can speed up the rate at which urine is produced. • Sticking to a regular bedtime can help with training a child to empty their bladder at an appropriate time each evening. • Encourage him or her to have a wee just before bed. If they have trouble going, turn on the tap for an inspiring tinkling of water, or give them a small ice-cube or a sip or two of iced water. • Cuddle, praise and reward them when they go to the bathroom and also when they have a dry night. • Use an alarm clock to wake your child at a set time during the night so they can get up and go to the

Baby Talk Your baby is crying – tired? Hungry? Your toddler is wildly pointing – what do they want? Oh no, it’s tantrum time! If only they could just tell you! For more than 25 years, parents around the world have been using baby sign language to help with communication. Baby Talk® baby sign language is for kiwi kids and uses simple signs combined with spoken words to help your child to communicate before they can easily converse. See www.babytalk.co.nz for more information.

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• • • • •

toilet. Place their dressing gown within easy reach on cold nights. Make sure the path to the toilet is light and free of obstacles. Ideally, their room should be close to a toilet. If it’s a bit of a trek to the bathroom, they could have a potty in their room. A bedwetting alarm may work for your child. Some people suggest restricting fluids at night time but this isn’t proven to work.

Love and laughter go a long way Did you or someone in your family wet the bed as a child? If so, make your bedwetting incidents into funny stories to tell your child. Having a giggle about Mummy or Daddy or a glamorous Auntie or a blokey Uncle wetting the bed could help prevent your little one from feeling bad about their bedwetting. Also, remember to be patient and loving when there’s an accident. Your child can’t help it. This could be a difficult time for them and they need you to help and reassure them until the bedwetting solutions work. Article courtesy of www.drynites. co.nz. DryNites website specialises in bedwetting and understands how difficult this time can be for both parents and children. Check out the website for more information on enuresis, self-esteem in children and read others bedwetting stories. Visit www.drynites.co.nz.

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Glue ear and grommets (ventilation tubes) Middle ear infections (acute otitis media) in children are common. They often begin in the first year, and most children have had one before the age of five.

he main symptom is ear pain, with a bulging red eardrum. The treatment is pain relief and usually a course of an antibiotic. It is important that the whole course is completed, even though the pain has subsided. Some children get many infections in a year, which is distressing for the child and disruptive for the family. It can take weeks for the infection to completely clear. However, children’s Eustachian tubes are not fully mature and this may be delayed, leading to changes in the middle ear which can result in the persistence of fluid or thicker “glue”then called otitis media with effusion (OME) or “glue ear”. Fluid or glue in both ears can result in hearing loss as long as it persists. Hearing loss can go unnoticed for months or years, but is often detected on a screening test at day care or school. When OME with hearing loss persists in both ears, after three months the child has a significant disability in regards to hearing at school, and it may account for “naughty” or frustrated behaviour. At this point, ventilation tubes (grommets) are usually recommended.

The operation of inserting tubes or grommets is done under a brief general anaesthetic, usually in day surgery centre. Some children also require removal of the adenoids. The fluid or glue is suctioned out of the middle ear through a small incision in the eardrum. The tubes are a small device inserted into the incision. Quite simply, they take over the function of the Eustachian tube, and the ventilation from the tubes makes the middle ear dry. The most commonly used tubes are a “collar button” shape, with an inner diameter of about 1mm. The tube is usually placed at the front of the eardrum, and it slowly moves around to the back when it becomes surrounded by a crust and then leaves the drum, which heals behind it. This takes about a year. About 70 per cent of children requiring tubes have a normal middle ear afterwards. In 30%, a further set is required, and in about 15%, three or more times. This does not mean the first tubes were ineffective, but that the child has been slower to outgrow the problem. There are common misconceptions

about ventilation tubes. It was initially feared that swimming would allow water and infection to enter the middle ear through the tubes, but trials have shown that most children can swim in a clean pool and sea water without a problem. Therefore the ear plugs and bathing caps for swimming that were routine for so long are not required. However, soapy bathwater can pass through the tubes. Therefore, putting the head under the bathwater

is inadvisable. For hair-washing, use the child’s fingers to block the ears – it’s as effective as ear plugs. By Jeremy Hornibrook, ear, nose and throat specialist at Christchurch Hospital and in private practice at St. George’s Hospital and Southern Cross Hospital, Christchurch. This article is a short version of “Otitis Media and Ventilation Tubes” published in New Zealand Practice Nurse, August 1995.

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parties

Take great pics of your child’s birthday I’ve been asked by parents of children to photograph their birthday parties on numerous occasions and each time it has been a lot of fun.

hotographing children isn’t always easy – and photographing “the birthday party” presents its own unique opportunities and challenges as a photographer. Birthday parties have a lot of emotion, interaction, colour and energy – the highs and a few lows of life are all present. On the challenging side of things, children’s parties can be chaotic places with moving subjects, lots of clutter and often little time for those organising them to pick up a camera and take a shot. Here are a few tips on photographing children’s parties that come to mind:

Designate a party photographer

There’s nothing worse than getting to the end of a party and realising that while the camera was out that no one bothered (or had time) to pick it up and take some shots. Give someone the job and release that person from other party duties to just take photos. This way you’re guaranteed to get some shots and will have something to remember the day with.

Get a child’s perspec�ve

One of the most important tips I can share is to get down low when taking photos of children. The biggest mistake I see in party photos is adults taking shots from a standing position looking down onto a scene. While you might take a few shots from this perspective the majority of your photos should be taken at eye level of the subjects you’re shooting.

Mix it up

Having said this – it can inject a lot of life into party shots if you do mix up your shooting angles and focal lengths at a party. Try some shots from standing up high (get on a chair even to accentuate it – this can be great for group shots) but also get down really low and shoot looking up at kids. Also try a range of focal lengths ranging from wide angle shots that take in the whole party scene through to zoomed shots of kids and party elements. Mixing it up like this will mean you end up with a more dynamic and playful series of shots at the end of the day.

Look for the party details

Another way to add interest to the shots is to focus in on the details of the party. I find that many of these shots are best taken before the guests arrive and might include shots of the cake, photos of balloons and other decorations, photos of presents stacked, shots of a set party table. Often it’s good to get in nice and close to these elements – fill the frame with them (to the point where they even become a little abstract). You’ll find that these types of shots look great scattered through an album between shots of people.

Know the party plan

In order to capture all of the important moments in the party you should know how it is planned to run. Know when everyone will be sitting down, when the blowing out of candles

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will happen, when presents will be opened etc. This will mean you can be well positioned for each event just ahead of it happening.

Shoot candidly

Most of your party photos will end up being candid ones of children and adults interacting with one another around the different party activities. I tend to take quite a few shots from the edge of the party using a longer zoom lens. The other thing to do as the party “warms up” is to actually get into the party and shoot from within it with a wide-angle lens.

7 8

Planned shots

Think ahead about what type of “must have” sort of shots you want from the party. These might include some group shots, cake shots, blowing out candles, opening presents, party games etc.

Take before and a�er shots

It’s amazing to see how a room (and people) can be transformed in just an hour or two when you have a group of children in it. For this reason

you might want to consider what type of shots you’ll want to take before the party actually starts. This might include some of those shots that focus in on different elements of the party (see above) but also shots of the birthday boy or girl when they are dressed up and looking (and behaving) at their best. Also take a few shots at the end of the party – they could make a humorous comparison series with your before shots.

Include adults in your photos

The focus of children’s parties is generally the children – but the adults attending the party can present you with some fascinating shots. Sometimes their reactions to what the children are doing can be quite fascinating and it’s worth including photographing them.

By Darren Rowse Darren Rowse is the editor and founder of Digital Photography School. He lives in Melbourne Australia and is also the editor of the ProBlogger Blog Tips and TwiTip Twitter Tips blogs.

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Game on

Check out the latest and greatest games for your computer, PS3, Nintendo and Xbox with these gaming.

Game: PES 2012 – Pro Evolution Soccer Platforms: PS3 (include any specific hardware required) Your rating: (3.5 out of 5 stars) Classification: G Genre: Simulated sports Themes and values: Play football against the best in the world Language: Nil Violence/distressing scenes: Nil

Game: Fishdom 2 H2O Platforms: PC or Mac Your rating: (4 out of 5 stars) Classification: G Genre: Match three games Themes and values: Match three items to win the round Language: Nil Violence/distressing scenes: Nil

I really enjoyed Fishdom and didn’t think that there would be a second one. Well I was wrong and it is quite a good improvement. Fishdom 2 has more colours and more boards to play. The object is to build and decorate There are two great football games this your dream aquarium with fish galore. year that you should look at if you’re a Take a photo of your tank and send fan of the sport. it to your friends. Make sure your fish are comfortable or they will start The question is, can PES2012 beat FIFA12 complaining. The game play is to match and continue its climb up the ladder? three or more of the same kind of items First of all, it lacks authentic clubs, to clear the board and to additionally leagues and competitions. The make the matches over the gold tiles Champions League is available, as is to complete the level. Higher levels will the South American Copa Santander have the gold tiles in a corner section Libertadores, and the Spanish and Dutch making clearing it more difficult. Larger leagues are all present and accounted matches will earn you power-ups to for. Unfortunately, only Tottenham and destroy tiles on the board. Playing the game earns you money to buy supplies Manchester United fans are catered for for your own fish tank. You have the option to buy different and exotic fish, from England. decorate your tank with plants and ornaments or buy comfort items to keep Even with the inevitable team and player update, the lack of lower league clubs limits the strength and depth of the management mode, although Master League your fish healthy. Although Fishdom 2 H2O is very similar to Fishdom 1, if you is actually more enjoyable than ever this year. Players are able to take their custom or your children are match three players, you’ll enjoy the animated tokens, the intense colours, fun music, screensavers, desktop backgrounds and the addictive character into the dressing room and deal with budgets, transfers and tactics, and familiar nature of this game. while attempting to win over the board, fans and players. About the author: Duncan Sharpe lives in Sydney with his beautiful wife Heike and The biggest change on the field comes in the form of off-the-ball control. While two loving children. Duncan enjoys baseball and rugby when not writing reviews. holding the ball up in midfield or bombing down the wing, players can click and move the right analogue stick in a teammate’s direction to control their movement. However difficult to master, this is certainly a useful skill if and when conquered. It led to some of the finest goals I ever scored. Unfortunately, despite many improvements to teammate support play, one of the biggest problems with this year’s game is the appalling referee, goalkeeper and manager AI. Shocking card decisions seem to be a bigger issue online, but the awarding of free kicks is inconsistent all of the time and in every area of the field. Do you have to repeat yourself before your child responds? In short, PES 2012 isn’t the game that will convince the legions of FIFA fans to Does your child suddenly become hearing impaired when you’re transfer to Konami. But for all of its drawbacks, when the whistle blows and the game kicks off, PES 2012 offers a satisfying, unpredictable and utterly enjoyable around? Ever find yourself asking, “Did you hear me?” game of virtual football.

Are you teaching your children NOT to listen to you?

Game: Platforms: Your rating: Classification: Genre: Themes and values:

Reminders are given regularly by most parents. In fact, most children only respond to an exasperated, “If I have to tell you one more time...!”

To be honest I didn’t look forward to this game. For 20 years this group has been producing games that just milk off the movies so I didn’t have high expectations. When I found Disney Universe to be a fun experience, I was pleasantly surprised. Disney Universe’s story is a simple one: gamer versions of some of Disney’s famous fictional worlds have been corrupted by a mysterious virus. Instead of providing peaceful and fun-filled respites, these worlds are now full of dangerous enemies and deadly hazards. There are 18 stages based on the likes of The Lion King, Alice, Pirates of the Caribbean and the like. Those stages are then split into 54 parts, so there’s no shortage of game here. Simply knowing that there’s so much to do made me happy. Sure, the graphics aren’t super-fine, the animation isn’t incredibly fluid and the music and sound effects tend to get quite repetitive, but everything nonetheless mixes to create something game-player pleasing. In-game currency allows you to unlock costumes, which shone-through everything the game does as perhaps its most important concept as it allows you to jump from world to world and unlock as you see fit. Disney Universe’s multiplayer aspects (which are local only) give the game the ability to please up to four players at once.

If your child won’t do anything without your constant reminders and nagging then you have trained your child well. Fortunately, you can motivate your child to step-up to the “responsibility plate” and I suggest sooner, rather than later.

Disney Universe PS3 (include any specific hardware required) (5 out of 5 stars) G Cartoon adventure Play as characters from Disney in a Pirates of the Caribbean adventure Language: Nil Violence/distressing scenes: Cartoon violence only

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Parents are usually surprised to find that reminding children actually (gulp!) teaches kids to not listen to us and robs children of the opportunity to become responsible.

Three steps to training your child to hear you the first time: Say it once and once only.

Make a commitment to bite your tongue in order to retrain your child to hear you the first time.

for your 2Bechildprepared to test you.

I guarantee that your child is going to “forget” or not come when you call. The good news is that this suggests that you’re on the right track. You and your child are stuck in a negative pattern and it won’t change overnight. Thus, stick with it. Your child is going to test you to make certain you mean

business. So be consistent and follow through.

Use commonsense consequences to follow through. Commonsense consequences guide your child to learn from their actions. In order to be effective the consequence needs to be related to their behaviour. For example if your child should forget her lunch, let her figure out the solution on her own. Yes, she may go hungry or she will likely decide to ask for handouts from friends. Even if she were to go without lunch (one skipped meal is not going to starve her), this lesson will provide motivation to remember the next time (much more than any amount of reminders you can give). The above suggestions are simple but it doesn’t mean that they are easy. Be gentle with yourself while going through the growing pains of change. With consistency, you’ll be amazed at how eliminating reminders can quickly heal your child’s selective deafness. By Kelly Nault, MA, author of award winning parenting book When You’re About to Go off the Deep End, Don’t Take Your Kids With You, inspires mothers to put themselves first—for the sake of their children. She shares time-tested tools that motivate children to want to be well behaved, responsible and happy! www.familytimes.co.nz

What kids say about handling stress Compared with what adults face, it might seem like kids don’t have that much to stress about.

ut kids have their own concerns — and sometimes feel stress, just as adults do. And kids’ stresses can be just as overwhelming, particularly if they don’t have effective coping strategies. A KidsHealth® KidsPoll explored what kids stress about the most, how they cope with these feelings, and what they want their parents to do about it. The poll showed that kids deal with their stresses in both healthy and unhealthy ways, and while they may not say so, they do want their parents to reach out and help them cope with their feelings. The poll underscored how important it is for parents to teach kids to recognise and express their emotions, and to use healthy ways to cope with the stress they experience. By guiding them to healthy coping skills, parents can help prepare kids to tackle whatever stresses they meet throughout their lives.

Results of the poll

We asked kids to tell us what things cause them the most stress. Kids said that they were stressed out the most by: grades, school, and homework (36%); family (32%); and friends, peers, gossip, and teasing (21%). These are the coping strategies kids said they use the most (they could give more than one response): • 52% play or do something active • 44% listen to music • 42% watch TV or play a video game

• 30% talk to a friend • 29% try not to think about it • 28% try to work things out • 26% eat something • 23% lose their temper • 22% talk to a parent • 11% cry The poll also revealed important news for parents. Though talking to parents ranked eighth on the list of most popular coping methods, 75% of the kids surveyed said they want and need their parents’ help in times of trouble. When they’re stressed, they’d like their parents to talk with them, help them solve the problem, try to cheer them up, or just spend time together.

What parents can do Notice out loud. Tell

kids when you notice something they might be feeling (“It seems like you might still feel mad about what happened at the playground”). This shouldn’t sound like an accusation. It’s just a casual observation that you’re interested in hearing more about your child’s concern.

say something like: “No wonder you felt mad when they wouldn’t let you in the game.” Feeling understood and listened to helps kids feel connected to you.

Put a label on it. Many

kids do not yet have words for their feelings. If your child seems angry or frustrated, use those feeling words to help your child learn to identify the emotions by name.

Help kids think of things to do. Suggest activities kids can do to feel better now and to solve the problem at hand. Encourage them to think of a couple of ideas.

Just be there.

Sometimes kids don’t feel like talking about what’s bothering them. Try to respect that, give them space, and still make it clear that you’ll be there when they do feel like talking.

Be patient. 2 7 Comment briefly on the 3feelings you think your child was experiencing as Listen to your kids. Ask them to tell you what’s wrong. Listen attentively and calmly — with interest, patience, openness, and caring.

you listen.

For example, you might

journey where the

becomes a destination

It hurts to see your kids unhappy or worried. But try to resist the urge to fix every problem. Instead, focus on helping them grow into good problem-solvers — kids who know how to roll with life’s ups and downs, put feelings into words, calm down when needed, and bounce back to try again.

Families are well catered for on every Interislander voyage.Nurseries provide cot and baby-changing facilities. Playgrounds of varying sizes, for a range of ages ensure that our youngest passengers can play and meet new friends. If they can be convinced to leave the playground, magicians and clowns perform on many school holiday sailings. And, of course Interislander looks after families with a range of great value fare options

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Exploring your family history Most kids come home from school with a family tree assignment at some point because a knowledge of where one fitâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s in oneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s family is a crucial part of forming identity.

hat about as an adult though? Have you ever thought about exploring past your own generation to find out more about your family? One of the greatest gifts you can pass on to your children is your family history â&#x20AC;&#x201C; where they came from, what they did, interesting characters and important life events. Admittedly, the task can seem overwhelming at first. You have two parents, four grandparents, eight great grandparents and 16 great grandparents, not to mention all their brothers and sisters. Here are some keys to successfully â&#x20AC;&#x201C; and enjoyably â&#x20AC;&#x201C; put together your family history for posterity.

Start with what you know Begin by writing down the details you already know or can easily access: parentsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; birth dates and places, marriage date and place, death and burial if they have died. Additional details might be: occupation, education, military service (including where, when, and if medals), travel, country of origin or known heritage, residences, land ownership, religion, memberships in organisations and societies, and much more. Family stories are another way to add quality and richness to your tree, so do make notes of stories. You could also interview older relatives about these family members and their history.

military service sites, and more, you will be happy to put down the information you find into your family tree. But always remember to cite your source, including the web site address and the date you accessed that web site. This is incredibly important; as information is uploaded daily to the web and corrections are done as well.

Keep your documents and records organised and labelled It is very important to keep your copies of documents, photographs and other items carefully labelled and dated. If you copy a letter, note who â&#x20AC;&#x153;ownsâ&#x20AC;? the original letter, and the date on which you made a photocopy. This way, you have excellent sources at hand to confirm the family tree details if anyone questions your results. For the same reason, keep your information filed in an organised way. There are many options for organising and labelling your genealogy research and you will come across excellent suggestions in family tree magazines, genealogy sites and in classes.

Make no assumptions

residence ever since he was born - but a census shows him as having been born somewhere else. Some people have found that their grandfather or great grandfather changed his birth year on a military attestation form because he wanted to be old enough to go to Europe and fight in the Great War (WW1). Names, dates, places - all these may be different from what you â&#x20AC;&#x153;know.â&#x20AC;?

Share what you find

and further back in your family tree, remember to share your information with your relatives and ask them to pass the information on. These days it is quite easy to upload a family tree to an online site and protect it by only allowing specific people to see it. Search for a site that will allow you to work on your tree online, do corrections, add source details, and download your tree to your own computer at any time without charge.

Once you have begun to fill in further

Never assume that what you think you know is true. Your grandparents may not have married until after the first child was born, and so the marriage year may be wrong. Whoops. Your father may believe that he lived in one

Hamilton

Cite your sources. Write down the details of the actual document or item you read that provides proof about your parentsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; birth dates and places etc. All those details you found - are there any sources, any documents, any photographic evidence, any family stories about them?

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top reads Crissi Blair lives with her family in west Auckland and spends her time reading and writing, mostly about children’s books. Crissi organised the Storylines Festival of New Zealand Children’s Writers and Illustrators for three years and publishes the useful guide New Zealand Children’s Books in Print which is updated every year. Visit www. silvertone.co.nz for more information.

Picture Books Two Little Bugs

By Mark Sommerset Illustrated by Rowan Sommerset Dreamboat Books, 2011 ISBN 9780986466830 Hardback $29.99 Little Bug Red is on top of the leaf in the sunshine, while Little Bug Blue is underneath in the dark, too nervous to come out. But Red gets hungry and starts munching on their leaf... Children will love to turn the cut-out pages and peer through the holes as Red eats his way through the leaf. Ages three – eight.

Hank the Wrestling Shark

Words and music by Gerry Paul Illustrated by Tom Armstrong Wacky Tales Publications, 2012 ISBN 9780473201302 Paperback and CD $24.99 The young hero of the story is swimming at Bondi Beach in Australia when he meets Hank the Wrestling Shark, a fearsome creature with rows of ghastly teeth and an anchor around his neck. Listen to song on the CD (it won The John Lennon Songwriting Contest in 2010) which captures all the whoops and cries of their battle. Ages four – eight.

Goldilocks on CCTV

By John Agard Illustrated by Satoshi Kitamura Frances Lincoln, 2011 ISBN 9781847801838 Hardback $31.99 A modern collection of poetry that brings fairytale characters right up to the minute – try Pumpkin Biker Cinderella and The Cloning of Red Riding Hoodie (where the text is cloned too). Illustrations in watercolours and black ink capture the characters in their punky garb and contemporary environment. Ages seven plus. 24

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Junior Fiction Losing Turtle By Adrienne Frater Illustrated by Cat Chapman Walker Books Australia ISBN 9781921529108 Paperback $13.99 There are three stories in this little chapter book perfect for a beginning reader: Sam loves his grandmother but wishes she would stop knitting him jumpers; Sam tries to make a bird scarer for his father’s birthday but ends up causing a cat fight; and Sam has to take over in the kitchen. Ages five – eight.

Ophelia Wild, Secret Spy By Elena de Roo Illustrations by Tracy Duncan Walker Books Australia, 2012 ISBN 9781921529672 Paperback $16.99 This chapter book for new readers is written in rhyme and stars Ophelia Wild, who sets herself up in a tree house as a secret spy, with her assistant Albert. The illustrations throughout add to the humour. I hope we’ll be seeing more of Ophelia and Albert. Ages six to nine.

The Truth about Verity Sparks By Susan Green Walker Books Australia, 2011 ISBN 9781921720277 Paperback $18.99 Set in London in 1878, Verity (13) is an orphan working as a milliner but loses her job after being wrongly accused of theft. This leads to her going to live with the Plush family and becoming an assistant detective in their Confidential Inquiry Agency. A mystery with intriguing characters and a touch of the supernatural. Ages eight - 12.

Intermediate Fiction Far Rockaway By Charlie Fletcher Hodder Children’s Books, 2011 ISBN 9780340997321 Hardback $34.99 Cat and her grandfather have a great relationship, largely based on books. They have a terrible accident which leaves Cat unconscious, but in her mind she is on a journey populated with characters from the books they’ve shared. Full of adventure, pirates and ghosts, mixed with family drama. An intense and worthwhile read for ages 12 plus.

Recon Team Angel: Assault By Brian Falkner Walker Books Australia, 2011 ISBN 9781921720543 Paperback $21.99 In the year 2030, the world has been invaded by aliens the Bzadians, who are trying to take over Earth. But a special force of humans has been secretly trained to infiltrate the Bzadians - Recon Team Angel, teenagers who have been training for years to be able to speak, work, eat and think like the enemy. Ages 12 plus.

Information books Storm: A High Country Mustering Horse Words & photographs by Hayley Pitts Tucker Media, 2012 ISBN 9780473194178 Paperback $18 Storm is a handsome black horse running free on a high country station. She has to be trained to be useful on the farm. Follow Storm as she is transformed from a gangly young filly to a reliable working horse taking part in the muster. Told in rhyme with photographs capturing the ruggedly beautiful country and animals. Ages five plus.

101 Things to Do to Become a Superhero … or Evil Genius By Helen Szirtes and Richard Horne Bloomsbury, 2010 ISBN 9781408802571 Paperback $20 Fun and information combine in a fact-packed handbook with all you need to know to identify your talents as a superhero or evil genius. Ages 10-14.

Scent of Apples

Greek Myths

By Jacqui McRae Huia Publishers, 2011 ISBN 9781869694777 Paperback $20 Libby (13) lives on her grandparents’ apple orchard. When her grandfather dies she can’t seem to deal with her loss. Her mother sends Libby to boarding school where she meets Charlie, a Maori girl with a warm and welcoming whanau who provide Libby, and eventually her mother too, with a way of dealing with their pain. Ages 11 – 15.

By Ann Turnbull Illustrated by Sarah Young Walker Books, 2012 ISBN 9781406339383 Paperback $24.99 This is a collection of 17 Greek myths including stories about King Midas, Orpheus and Eurydice, Persophone, the Minotaur and many more. The author has gone back to the early versions of these stories to provide the most authentic tales. Each story is accompanied by lustrous full-page illustrations. Ages nine plus. Fa m i l y

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