Family Times - Auckland - Spring 2013

ISSN 2324 4496 ISSN 2324 4488

AUCKLAND / ISSUE 35 / Spring 2013

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Grandparenting from afar Tips on preserving this important relationship

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Words of wisdom Your parenting questions answered

A news magazine and online resource for families

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Internet addiction and our children Internet overuse, Determine your child’s risk There are certain kids who seem to be pathological computer use more susceptible to Internet addiction, and and problematic computer knowing if your child fits the profile may help you plan some early intervention strategies. use are three of the labels Teens who have been diagnosed with such that are often used when disorders as depression, ADHD, social phobia discussing Internet addiction. or hostility may be more inclined to use the

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his addiction or compulsion to use the Internet is becoming a serious condition for many kids. Like other addictions, it can interfere with the child’s well-being, psychological and social development and physical health. The good news is that parents can prevent this addiction by being diligent in monitoring the time spent online.

Understand what internet addiction is

The idea of Internet addiction actually began in 1995, when Dr. Ivan Goldberg satirically proposed it as a disorder. It is still being debated whether or not to include it as official addiction. But basically, Internet addiction disorder, or IAD, is use of the computer to the extent that is impacts daily living in a negative manner. Red flags include spending more time online than with friends and family; irritation when computer time is interrupted; excessive checking of email; school or work becomes secondary to Internet use; disregard of computer use restrictions; preference for online relationships, or moodiness and depression when the sufferer is not online.

Whether or not it is a classified psychological disorder doesn’t really matter to the parent who has concerns over his child’s attachment to the Internet, though.

computer compulsively. Often, kids who have feelings of loneliness or those who have been uprooted will also be included in the high-risk group for Internet overuse.

In many ways computer overuse is similar to overeating. People need food to survive, yet it can become a serious problem for some.

Know your plan of action

Unlike drugs, smoking and alcohol, which are dangerous addictions used for self-medicating or social acceptance, using a computer isn’t inherently harmful. In fact, in many ways computer overuse is similar to over-eating.

People need food to survive, yet it can become a serious problem for some. Nowadays, the vast majority of kids need to navigate the Internet for school, but they can develop quite a problem when left to their own unsupervised devices. For many kids, it isn’t a matter of just saying “no.” Just as the parent of an overeater needs to monitor and assist the child in making healthy food choices, the parent of a problematic computer user will need to help their child make healthy decisions regarding

Provided by Rosa Wilson, visit www.becomeananny.com/blog/ computer use.

One of the most significant factors in prevention is parental intervention. It’s up to you to set limits on computer use. Begin early, and set up rules so that your child is not spending hours at a time online. Make sure you offer interesting alternatives to video games and Internet interaction. Spend quality time with your child doing things that are creative and fun, and help your child develop a strong social network offline. You can do this by getting them involved in sports or offline group activities in which they’ve expressed an interest. Find out what their passions are aside from the Web, and help them pursue them.

Perhaps they have an interest in a musical instrument or art. Encourage them to

develop their natural gifts and talents.

Spend some time each month volunteering in some way that does not require working with computers. Get your child involved in your faith community though the youth programme. For physical health, get your child moving and make sure they get plenty of exercise.

Showing your child that there is a big world beyond the computer and offering assistance in navigating that world will affect your ability to mitigate any brewing issues with computer addiction. It will take a little commitment on your part and you will need to become more closely involved in your child’s life, but when you consider the alternative, it’s worth the extra work.

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inside this issue

Contents Features

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2 Digital dilemmas

Internet addiction and our children

Tips on regaining confidence

Your parenting questions answered

How to preserve these relationships from afar

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4 Positive parenting 5 Words of wisdom

6 The importance of grandparents

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6 17 Safety 8 Language and emotion

Communication advice for parents

Caring for baby teeth

Take the family fitness challenge

Breastfeeding in public – the great debate

9 Dental pathways of infants 15 Fit families

16 Baby and toddler

How changes to child restraint laws may 14 Birthday parties

Low-cost tips affect your family

19 Road trips

Car games to keep the kids entertained

Comment 10 Kids’ view

Special features

We ask kids about their relationship with their grandparents

Resource information 12 13 16 18

Calendar of events Entertainment School term dates Top reads

About Us Publisher Robyn Willis Design & Production Moody Shokry Advert Production Target Press Production Office Editor Vanessa O’Brien Assistant Editor Rachel Taniwha Digital Editor Rochelle Savage Contributing Writers Lee Keenan, Karyn Riley Diane Levy, Sally Kabak Joseph Driessen, Dr Jonathan Broadbent Sophie Gray, Jennifer Beck Dr Victoria Metcalf, Crissi Blair

Distribution Printed and distributed quarterly approximately two weeks before each major school holiday. 65,310 distributed through early childhood centres, primary, intermediate schools and city council libraries. The opinions expressed in this publication are not those of the publisher unless indicated otherwise. No part of

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From the editor Confident parenting M

ost grandparents play a leading role in the lives of their grandkids.

If you were as lucky as me, a trip to visit your grandparents was always a treat.

My mother’s parents didn’t always live in the same city as me – at one point they were missionaries in the Philippines, and eventually they retired in sunny Waikanae. But of those times when we were together, I remember them making me feel like the most special grandchild on earth.

Nana would secretly buy me ice-creams, and let me help her bake. She would let me sleep in on Saturday mornings when I stayed over, and watch cartoons in bed while she bought me lavish amounts of overly-buttered Marmite toast. Pops would take me for a ride on his motorbike, often bring me little knick-knacks and jewellery items, and give us grandkids change to go to the dairy for a 50 cent mixture – and now I’m showing my age!

I always felt that there was some kind of conspiracy between us – they would let me do things that Mum wouldn’t, and I wouldn’t tell.

Later on, once Pops passed away, Nana still readily welcomed me and three of my giggling teenage friends to her home in Waikanae after our first girls’ road trip. She heard once that my kitten was sick, and she paid for his little operation. And before she passed away last year, she shared with me a secret: she prayed for me and all her grandchildren every day.

I was lucky. But in some cases, grandparents today have a bit more of a challenge; many of them are not just grandparents, but caregivers – either full-time or while parents work. On one hand this gives them a unique opportunity to be involved hands-on in the lives of their grandchildren. On the other hand, it can diminish the magic of this special relationship

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Whether you’re a stay-athome or working mum, chances are you’ll experience a loss of confidence and selfbelief at some point during parenthood.

B by making it ordinary and every day.

Then there are those grandparents whose grandchildren live overseas, or grandchildren whose grandparents live overseas. Globalisation means that there are more occurrences of this today than say, 20 years ago. But it also means that international communication has improved: with the advent of the Internet, a video chat between grandparents and grandchildren is just a click away.

In this edition we investigate how grandparents and grandchildren relate today, with special tips on how to keep in touch, and how to nurture these precious relationships.

In Kids’ View, we ask kids about their relationship with their grandparents.

Of course we have all the other regular features, handy hints and giveaways. Happy springtime everyone – enjoy!

ecoming a parent is one of the toughest roles in life, often with little thanks, recognition or acknowledgement. This can result in loss of identity and feeling under-valued and worthless as a person.

However, the more you undertake or achieve something, the better you become at it and the more positive and confident you will feel. Recognising your accomplishments, and realising that you’re not alone in experiencing setbacks, self-doubt, guilt or negative thoughts, provides you with a sense of relief, achievement and empowerment.

Achieving and acknowledging success, whether large or small, improves your confidence, self-esteem and self-belief.

Here are some ways to feel confident and incontrol of your life: • Establish a strong personal foundation, vision and goals.

• Think and act positively – avoid or overcome any negative self-talk, limiting beliefs or unsupportive habits.

• Acknowledge any feelings of guilt by writing them down then decide to let them go or do something about them.

• Acquire skills that support your personal and professional growth.

• Gain through giving – get involved in community groups, volunteer work or

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

physical activity.

Spend time with positive, supportive and inspirational people.

Set yourself small, simple, achievable goals every day.

Overcome any fear of failure (and success).

Fake it until you make it – practice and take one step at a time.

Be true to yourself – live and act according to your personal values.

Focus on your strengths, passions, natural talents and abilities.

Live in the present and be grateful for what you have in life right now.

Be kind to yourself and others.

Take daily action or do something differently – one small, simple change has the power to transform your life.

Focus on and acknowledge your accomplishments, achievements and success.

Avoid negative and unsupportive people and activities that drain your time or energy.

“Feel the fear and do it anyway.”

Support your confidence with positive thoughts, visualisations and affirmations.

Learn from positive role models and inspirational people you admire or aspire to be like.

Never compare yourself to others – do what works for you and your family.

Remember, you are not alone.

By Karyn Riley Karyn Riley is a Christchurch-based time management and life balance specialist, author, inspirational speaker, writer and mother of two.

Her book, How to Keep the YOU in Mum, is available in bookstores and at rileylife.co.nz

Parenting advice with Diane Levy In our winter issue, we asked readers to submit their parenting questions and concerns to family therapist, counsellor, parenting coach and speaker Diane Levy. Here are two of the questions with Diane’s helpful advice. This will be a regular column, so get those questions flowing!

Email your questions to admin@familytimes.co.nz.

Teenage angst

Q

My preteen daughter is struggling with girls at her school. How can I help when she seems upset and will hardly speak?

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Let’s split this situation into two issues – the timing of getting our children to speak, and responding so that they will feel supported.

Some children want to blurt out everything rules and to make them stick even when your My house, my rules the moment they come home from school child insists that he has a better time at his and others are not ready to talk until much I have a shared-care relationship dad’s home. later. I have found that the best time, with a of my 8-year-old son. His father Consult friends (whose parenting you admire) has him four days out of seven, so child who is reluctant to speak after school, is as to which rules they use and open a dialogue he seems to think his rules are what at bed-time. with your 8-year-old. Rather than presenting should be followed. This leads to When you tuck her in, be prepared for a chat. him with bald rules for him to resist, discuss arguments with my son re bed time, A good opening is “What was the hardest what to eat, time on computer, with him what are reasonable limits in terms thing for you today?” This gives your child etc. Any advice? of his health, wellbeing and capacity, to learn permission to talk about bad stuff and also the following day.

Which rules should operate in a implies that bad stuff is a normal part of household is a difficult issue for the day and therefore can be spoken about parents who see eye-to-eye to sort out, let without feeling different or ashamed.

Which rules should operate alone parents who have needed to separate Once she does speak, your job is to listen and live apart. So let’s sort two options – in a household is a difficult actively in a way that allows her to keep ideal and real. issue for parents who see eye- sharing her woes. Avoid the temptation to The ideal option would be for you and to-eye to sort out, let alone rush to solutions – particularly the useless your son’s father to sit down together and advice “just walk away.” Useful phrases are sort out the rules that should apply in both parents who have needed to “that’s horrible for you,” “that sounds awful,” households. Your son has more than enough separate and live apart. “how mean is that!” or “how unkind is that?” to deal with shifting households so frequently I always work on the basis that you need to do and he doesn’t need to live in two different this for a fortnight (10 school days). By the end cultures and time zones. I imagine that this is Whatever you two decide, write down the never going to happen though – so let’s look of this time, one of two things may happen: agreements and, most importantly, write down at a more manageable option. in being able to talk things through with you, a review date for three weeks away with the The reality is that most parents have very you may have given your child the support and undertaking that you will trial them and then little – if any – ability to influence the strength to handle the situation differently – or check how it is working for the two of you. household of their “ex” and have even less – you have a lot of factual information to go to This respectful approach should place the two inclination to change the rules of their own the school and seek their help. of you (you and your son) on the same side. household, so the option is to have your own

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feature story

Grandparenting from a distance We’ve heard the stories: grandparents who spoil their grandchildren rotten with guilty pleasures that they perhaps denied to their own children when they were growing up – sweets, treats, presents and all sorts of fun activities.

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randparenting certainly offers a second chance at parenting and enjoying children, with the added bonus of extra time available as family and work demands lessen.

But how can this important relationship be preserved if tens, hundreds or thousands of kilometres separate the families?

Assistant editor Rachel Taniwha investigates.

Families and patterns of ageing in New Zealand are changing, but grandparents continue to have a vital role in today’s families says Age Concern New Zealand chief executive Ann Martin.

“We cannot underestimate the beneficial role of a grandparent in the life of their grandchild. The reward goes both ways and the bonds between grandparent and grandchild can be priceless.”

The Parenting Place creative producer John Cowan says that many - although not all grandparents have the “wonderful luxury of time to give to their grandchildren; time for stories, chats, listening, going for walks, doing activities and chores together.”

Grandparents can also provide a living link to history, heritage and the wider family. Cowan

says he used to say he couldn’t wait until his own kids provided him with grandchildren, “Then I could play with them and fill them up with Coca Cola, food colouring and sugar and send them home as high as kites for their parents to try to settle down!” He believed that grandparents got to have the fun of being involved with kids without having any responsibility.

“I think I was mistaken – grandparents do enjoy the fun of being involved with their mokopuna, but I have never met any who didn’t also shoulder a great sense responsibility for their welfare and safety.”

Relationships are two-way Family Times regional writer Rosie Hill and husband Nathan live in Brighton, Dunedin, with their two children; four-year-old Leo and 11-month-old Zoey. Nathan’s parents live locally, while Rosie’s parents are based in Ross on the West Coast of the South Island.

Rosie describes her mother-in-law as a “fantastically brilliant woman who often looks after the kids for us. She and my son have a particularly close relationship; they have been great mates since day one and my son loves

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going to “Nanny’s” to stay.”

Rosie says she knows her parents would love to be able to spend more time in person with the kids and to have a closer relationship. They visit once or twice a year, and when they come they make a big effort to have quality time with the kids - particularly Leo. Because he is older they can go on outings and adventures together. “He loves hanging out with them.

My dad just does everything at his pace and follows his lead so a simple walk can take quite a long time.

It is always so great to have them to stay as it really reaffirms those relationships.”

Rosie says they keep in contact in numerous ways, including sending Leo letters with photos of themselves and things around their house and garden so he knows what they get up to. “This is really cool and we often send back photos and drawings that Leo has done.”

They use Skype and talk on the phone as well; this way Leo can show them new toys or things he has made. “This works really well most of the time but being four sometimes he doesn’t want to talk or is embarrassed and I worry about hurting their feelings!”

Rosie’s parents agree that the role of grandparents is vitally important and a

feature story huge honour for those people lucky enough to experience this. “Grandparents and grandchildren can each learn heaps from each other. While grandparents have a large amount of life experience to share with the children, they in turn enable us to return to a world of wonderment and fun. The great thing is we both have time when we are together to enjoy it all.”

Thousands of kilometres apart Family Times media executive Naomh Cusin is based in Christchurch, New Zealand, with her Kiwi husband Chris. She was, however, born in Ireland. The couple have two children; 10-year-old Naomi and 7-year-old Joshua.

The Cusin’s lived just out of Dublin until last year, with Naomh’s parents very much a part of their daily lives, caring for and supporting the children. When Chris was offered a role in IT in Christchurch the family decided to give the children the opportunity to try a different lifestyle.

“The hardest part of the move is the gap that used to be filled by friends and family and particularly my parents,” says Naomh. Naomi and Joshua missed them a lot in the beginning.

“The gap for my parents is also huge. When I asked them how important they thought the role of a grandparent was they said it was hugely important as the children are an extension of their family and they have been involved with them since they were born.”

Naomh says it is hard to maintain the relationship, but thankfully Skype and Facebook are a great help. A weekly

Skype call allows the children to give their grandparents an update on the week’s sporting highs and lows, a piano recital and a rundown on what’s going on at school.

Although the children are too young to be active on Facebook the family regularly post photos and videos of them and sends quick updates on their New Zealand lives. “It is not an easy situation but the technology that is available enables our children not only to maintain their relationship with their grandparents but to allow that relationship to continue to grow. “

The importance of communication Social media consultant Eva Maria says social media has a huge influence on keeping communication alive, and currently the largest growing demographic on Facebook is grandparents. She says most grandparents opt to not put anything up on their social media networks, but rather use the network to see their children and grandchildren.

She suggests using common-sense when joining the ranks on the online world – not making the account publicly accessible, sharing information only with friends, and taking care with what personal information is shared, such as date of birth and location.

“When you get the hang of social media over time, do post up your own thoughts and photos for your family members to see too: what you’re doing, what you look like; this is a very personal process that helps family members keep the communication going.”

Grandchildren bring so much joy and happiness to the lives of grandparents.

Some grandparents are fortunate enough to live in the same city as their grandchildren, but others may live in a different country or miles away.

Grandparents play an important role in the lives of their grandchildren. Let them know that you love them dearly and that you will be there for them.

They may open up to you and feel more comfortable talking to you about their problems. Offer advice and guidance; let them know that the conversation is between you and them. Grandchildren need to know that they can trust their grandparents.

Grandchildren can teach us many things. Perhaps you have purchased a new cell phone or computer and are struggling with it. Children these days are technology savvy; let them show you how to use it. They will be so very proud that they have taught you something useful.

Being a long distant grandparent will never be easy. These days, computers and cell phones bring grandchildren closer to you. Snail mail does still have its place. Emails, texts, and being able to

Skype or Google Talk are the next best thing to actually being in the same city.

• Parents: make a particular time each day when the children can contact their grandparents via Skype.

• Have the grandparents read them a story while you are busy getting dinner or preparing for a new day.

• Once a week, at dinner time, bring your computer to the dining table.

Skype or Google Talk the grandparents and have a meal with them. Not only are you bringing joy to the grandparents; it also creates a very special bond for all. The grandparents will be able to take part in family discussions.

• Make a video at least once a month for the grandparents. Put it on You Tube for the grandparents to view.

• Grandparents - make up little care packages to send to the grandchildren. It doesn’t have to be large; just nice little things that you see along the way.

By Sally Kabak Sally Kabak is the author of Raising Grandchildren. Visit www. raisinggrandchildren.net.nz for more information and to view her blog.

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Family Times would like to thank all people who responded via a Facebook post regarding tips about grandparenting from afar. We had a huge response, and all stories will be featured on our website www.familytimes.co.nz.

Tips on grandparenting from afar

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Communicating with our children There is a constant ebb and flow of language and emotions between parents and children in the average household.

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n a harmonious family, most of these emotions and words are affirmative and positive; they create and strengthen trusting relationships. Most of the language is kind and thoughtful, and words are chosen with care so as not to offend or anger the other members of the family.

It is also quite normal for the parents to change their tone and language in order to manage their children’s behaviour. They might raise a voice somewhat, or frown at their toddler, or roll their eyes at their teenager and emphatically tell them that they may not go to the party.

When parents communicate their displeasure or worry using negative emotions like disapproval and irritation, they set up these emotions in their children’s minds, and they hope that the negativity of this experience will help the child to stop making mistakes or behaving in a certain manner. As long as parents make sure they have far more positive interactions than negative, and are moderate with their correction, this system works quite well. Children are resilient and can cope with these fluctuations of approval and disapproval, and are able to recover from experiencing negative feelings.

In some families, however, the whole strategy of using emotions and language to moderate their children’s behaviour can cause more problems than it is trying to solve. In these families, emotions are expressed too intensely, and there are too many words spoken. Children in these families often react to the intensity of these negative emotions and become emotional themselves. These activated emotions might be anxiety and anger, and the child is often overwhelmed by these feelings.

Some children will also start to copy the behaviour of their parents, and their language and emotions will become aggressive and extreme when they are under stress. They might start to interact with their siblings in this way, and when they are displeased or angered themselves, they turn the tables and interact aggressively and immoderately with their parents. And so the cycle goes on.

There can be a number of causes for this problem. Sometimes both children and parents have inherited a predisposition to feel their emotions intensely. There might also be a family culture handed down from one generation to the next in which language is used immoderately.

However, one of the chief causes is that the parent does not use consequences and withdrawal of privileges to teach the child to moderate their behaviour. That is, the parent only uses words and language to change the child and when this does not work they simply escalate and amplify the emotions and

words in the hope that the child will finally change their behaviour. This rarely works.

One of the key ways to moderate the behaviour of a child is to make sure you invest time and effort to build a great one-to-one relationship, and to spend time coaching the child. This includes “catching them while they are good” and thus reinforcing the positive behaviour. If that doesn’t work then the next step is to calmly discuss with them what needs to change and to withdraw a privilege or administer a natural consequence if they refuse.

It might be a calm talk about the importance of helping with tidying up the toys for a small toddler. For teenagers, the first step is a calm discussion about the need for responsibility,

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Load your photograph to the New Lynn Business Association Community FaceBook page, email a low res copy to us and get your friends voting on our FaceBook page. You will have the chance to win based on the amount of likes and a judge’s decision.

4 CATEGORIES: ‘You and Dad in New Lynn’ (open age) – Prize winner $250 Adult 19 years and over – Prize winner $500 Youth 13 to 18 years – Prize winner $250 and three $50 prizes Children up to 12 years – First Prize $150 and three $50 prizes

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and an explanation of consequences for their behaviour. This might mean being grounded for a weekend, doing extra chores, earning money to repair damage or giving up cherished gadgets like phones or Xboxes for a week.

These strategies will prevent the use of excessive language and emotions, and will help your child to develop effective self- management skills, without becoming emotionally and verbally overwhelmed, and thus contribute to the overall positive parentchild relationship.

By Joseph Driessen, education consultant Driessen speaks to parent and teacher groups about education. Email j.o.d@xtra.co.nz.

Looking after baby teeth Give me the baby teeth and I will show you the woman.

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here is a 500-year-old saying which goes “Give me the child until he is seven and I will show you the man.”

The idea is that the early life experiences of a child can shape the sort of person they will grow up to be.

Now, as new research from Otago University suggests, it appears that this old idea can be applied in dentistry today.

Tooth decay affects nearly everyone at some point in their lives, but it affects some people more than others. This can be for a variety of reasons: too much plaque (bacteria) on the teeth, eating or drinking sugary or acidic foods too often, deep grooves in the teeth that can’t be cleaned easily, insufficient fluoride exposure, or a combination of these issues.

Tooth decay can be prevented, but all too often children and adults who are at risk do not receive enough long-term preventive care. Eventually, tooth decay occurs and it gets worse over time.

So how early is it possible to know who is at greatest risk of the worst tooth decay through life? This is where the Dunedin Multidisciplinary Health and Development Study can help. This study has followed the same 1037 Dunedin-born people over four decades, and is the first long-term study in the world that has collected dental information along with1 information on general funtour.pdf 3/09/13 2:56 PM health and development.

Through the Dunedin study, new research suggests that for every cavity in a baby tooth, the likelihood of tooth decay in the adult teeth increases dramatically. The research shows that unless something is really done about it, tooth decay will keep progressing over time. Children with lots of tooth decay become adults with lots of tooth decay, who need many fillings or dental extractions in their permanent teeth.

“Tooth decay can be prevented, but all too often children and adults who are at risk do not receive enough longterm preventive care.”

Looking after your teeth needs to be a lifelong habit that starts in childhood, because what happens to children’s teeth will affect them for their whole lives. Early loss of the baby teeth can cause the adult teeth to come through crooked, so it is important to repair the teeth with fillings if possible, instead of extracting them. Fillings also help to reduce pain and keep the teeth functioning, but fillings don’t reduce or remove the risk of future decay. Children get a second chance.

Everyone gets a second set of teeth - the adult teeth - most of which come through between

the ages of six and 12, when some of the baby teeth are still present. Even in children who had a lot of decay in their baby teeth, the new adult teeth are free of decay to start, but they are not free from risk. The new adult teeth need protection. So if your child has already had tooth decay at a young age, how can their future rate of tooth decay be minimised?

Every child should be seen by a dentist or dental therapist regularly, beginning early in life. High-risk children need to be seen more often. As part of seeing a dentist or dental therapist, the grooves in the back teeth should be “fissure sealed”, and this should be done as soon as possible after the first adult teeth come into the mouth at about age six. Fluoride plays an important role as well. Although many regions in New Zealand have fluoride in the water, this alone isn’t enough to prevent decay among children and adults who have high risk of decay. Dentists and therapists can apply concentrated fluoride to actually reverse some

tooth enamel damage. It is also important to minimise the frequency of sugar consumption, whether it be from sweet drinks, foods, or lollies. Dental flossing should be introduced from a young age, and tooth brushing should be done at least twice a day for two minutes at a time, with a soft toothbrush and a suitable fluoride toothpaste. There are also special toothpastes for high-risk children and adults available from your dentist.

Baby teeth are precious and they need to be cared for very well. If your child has had a lot of tooth decay in their baby teeth then their adult teeth will need extra special care.

It is never too early to start thinking about a child’s future.

By Dr Jonathan Broadbent, senior lecturer at University of Otago. Jonathan is the current NZ Outstanding Young Dentist (2011-2012).

For more information about caring for your family’s oral health, visit www.healthysmiles.org.nz.

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Great giveaways for Spring…....

It’s easy to win fantastic prizes with Family Times. Just fill in the entry form and post it to us by the due date, or enter online at www.familytimes.co.nz. This month we have a fantastic line up of prizes with more great giveaways… Good luck!

Check out last issue’s lucky winners online.

WIN, WIN,

Win LEGO® Friends Emma’s Sports Car RRP $24.99

WIN!

Take a road trip to the Clearspring Mountains! Emma has a brand-new Sports car and it’s ready to roll through Heartlake City on a scenic drive with her cat, camera and a picnic lunch! Check the road signs as you cruise the winding roads on the way to your favourite picnic spot.

We have 20 x LEGO® Friends Emma’s Sports Car RRP $24.99, to give away.

Smurfs2 – In Cinemas September 19 - Prize Packs

IN, W , WIN

We have 5x prize packs, each consisting of: An activity set A set of character shoelace tags A Shopper Bag A double in-season pass Competition closes September 23, 2013.

WIN

In this issue Lee Keenan visited Stella Maris School to ask about the importance of grandparents and how the relationship between grandparents and grandchildren is preserved from afar.

Jos de Kort, age 13

Poppa Jo lives in a connected house with us so I see him every day and we like to walk together. I really like spending time with him. We go hunting and fishing a lot! My opa Pete and oma Sian live in Holland. We Skype them every few weeks and talk about all sorts of things. We have an important tradition of handing down family names which I think is really good.

Emma-Leigh Thompson, age 11

My grandma Joyce lives in New Lynn. We see her on special occasions. She taught me to knit and says me and my sister are a lot like her and her sister when they were young. She talks about Granddad and I like to ask her questions about him. My grandma Audrey lives in Canada.

Dad phones and Skypes her and she always send over lots of gifts to spoil us.

Connor McSweeney, age 11

Grandma lives with us so when she’s not busy she loves to bake us stuff! I sort of remember my granddad who died when I was little. I used to sit on his knee and he would read me stories. My other grandparents live in Ireland. I’ve just been over to visit them. My granddad taught me to make these special wooden pens. My grandma in Ireland sends us

lots of presents.

Cameron Bonar, age 10

My nana Connie lives in Auckland and we see her quite often. She loves to organise family events and always bakes a lot! My other grandparents live in Holland. I went to stay with them for six months this year. I went to school there and they helped teach me Dutch and how to ice skate which was cool. I’ve learnt a lot about their lives. I get to see them every year.

WIN, WIN,

WIN!

Recipes for Play

Win one of 10 AVEENO® Baby packs!

Recipes for Play contains easy ideas for engaging children’s senses. Playtime doesn’t have to be expensive and playing with paint and playdough doesn’t have to be toxic.

Many wonderful activities are possible with ingredients found in kitchen cupboards or the back garden, as shown in this gorgeous collection by sisters Rachel Sumner and Ruth Mitchener.

Small children love to be messy and get their hands and fingers into all sorts of colourful, gloopy substances. This is important for childhood development since it teaches little people so much about the world around them. Visit www.penguin.co.nz. We have 3 of these to give away.

We have 10 delicious AVEENO® Baby packs worth $52 each to give away. Specially formulated with ACTIVE NATURALS® ingredients and paediatrician recommended, AVEENO® Baby products help nourish, soothe and protect baby’s sensitive skin. Each pack contains: Baby Soothing Relief Creamy Wash - a tear-free wash that leaves skin moisturised for 24 hours; Baby Wash and Shampoo - for gentle cleansing that rinses clean with a soft, fresh fragrance; Baby Soothing Relief Moisture Cream - for non-greasy moisturisation; and Baby Daily Lotion – an emollient rich formula that protects against and alleviates chapping and chaffing to keep your baby’s skin soft.

WIN, WIN,

WIN!

Bruiser and the Big Snow

by Gavin Bishop Bruiser and the Big Snow features the big noisy digger Bruiser dealing with a major snow fall in a city. He works hard, clearing roads and paths and motorways, making the town safe for all.

When he settles down to rest at the end, he hears a tiny sound and discovers a trike buried under the snow. Visit www.randomhouse.co.nz.

We have 10 of these to give away.

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Disney’s Planes – in cinemas 26 September - prize packs

WIN,WIN,

WIN

From above the world of Cars comes Disney’s Planes, an action-packed 3D animated comedy adventure featuring Dusty (voice of Dane Cook), a plane with dreams of competing as a high-flying air racer. Dusty’s courage is put to the ultimate test as he aims to reach heights he never dreamed possible, giving a spellbound world the inspiration to soar.

5 prize packs, each consisting of: A kids’ watch A Crayola giant colouring book A double in-season pass to the movie Competition closes 23 September 2013.

Dunger by Joy Cowley What would your dream drink bottle look like? Send us your drawing and be in to win an amazing $50 prize pack from Crayola!

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

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 13 October 2013.

Congratulations to our dream job design competition winners from our last issue. They are:

WIN, WIN,

WIN!

Dunger is a new pre-teen novel; perfect holiday reading for boys and girls.

William and Melissa have been roped into helping their old hippie grandparents fix up their bach in the middle of the Sounds.

They’ll have no electricity, no cellphone reception, and only each other for company. As far as they’re concerned, this is not a holiday. Ages 10+ Gecko Press http://www.geckopress.co.nz/ Paperback RRP$19.99 We have 10 of these to give away.

Mortal Fire by Elizabeth Knox

1-4 - Liam MacDonald, Age 3 - “Liam and his magic monster scaring slippers.

These are Liam’s furry green slippers.

They are big furry slippers that look like monsters. They are magic slippers.

When he wears them they make him big, strong and scary. Liam then frightens the monsters away turning his nightmares in to happy dreams”

5-8 - Joseph Knopp, Age 7 - “This is a pieman and Hobbit slipper and it can fly because it has springs and jet packs.

On the Hobbit’s door is Gandalf’s sign.

Bilbo Baggins is standing outside his hobbit hole and pieman is flying in the sky. These are MY dream slippers.

This book is finely wrought magic from start to finish. It has brains; it has heart; it has people to fear and to fall in love with, and it all takes place in a totally beguiling world full of natural beauties, glittering puzzles and earthy problems.

It’s a rich and satisfying read. Margo Lanagan, author of Tender Morsels.

When 16-year-old Canny of the Pacific Island, Southland, sets out on a trip with her stepbrother and his girlfriend, she finds herself drawn into enchanting Zarene Valley where the mysterious but dark 17-year-old Ghislain helps her to figure out her origins.

Ages 15+, Gecko Press, http://www.geckopress.co.nz paperback with flaps RRP$29.99 .

We have 10 of these to give away.

WIN, WIN,

WIN!

9-12 - Cameron Galbraith, Age 9 -

“Rocket slippers with i-pad charger”

Birthday party voucher for Dialled Indoor Skatepark Be the coolest kid on the block and have your next party at Dialled Indoor Skatepark! Family Times has a party voucher to give away that entitles you to a three-hour session for up to 10 kids, table and chairs to set up party and a goodie bag for the birthday child. Dialled Indoor Skatepark caters for skate, scooter and BMX and has professionally built ramps and structures including a foam pit, kids area and also a great on-location shop. Bring a great attitude, bar ends and helmet (hire gear is available).

Visit 36 Parkway Drive, Rosedale, www.dialled.co.nz

Nigel Latta’s: The Modern Family Survival Guide The Modern Family Survival Guide by Nigel Latta covers many key topics such as separation and divorce; surviving family court; sharing custody; co-parenting when your ex is difficult; step parenting; adoption issues; parenting the “only child”; gay and lesbian parents; grandparents raising grandchildren, and much more. It includes chapters on the origin of the family, the many roles we play, how to introduce someone new, absent parents and most importantly, what really matters in children’s lives. We have 5 copies to give away.

Win a DVD of the Disney classic Bambi

Toucan Can

By Juliette MacIver, and illustrations by Sarah Davis.

A tongue-twisting, ludicrous rhyming picture book full of escalating hilarity and off-the-wall characters.

Toucan can do lots of things! Toucan dances.

Toucan sings. Toucan bangs a frying pan.

Can you do what Toucan can?

Ages 3+, Gecko Press, www.geckopress. co.nz, paperback with flaps RRP$19.99.

Hardback with jacket RRP$34.99.

We have 10 of these to give away.

WIN, WIN,

WIN!

Bambi – 5 June 2013, out of

the Disney vault. As morning light breaks across the meadow and new life awakens, Bambi’s critically acclaimed coming-of-age story begins.

And now, completely restored and re-mastered with state-of-the-art technology, Walt Disney’s most endearing animated film comes to life like never before. BAMBI is a grand adventure packed with humour, breathtaking animation, Academy Award® - nominated music, and heart. Share the brilliance of this timeless classic with everyone in your family! We have 10 of these to give away.

Just tick the things you want to win Spring 2013

        

LEGO Aveeno Baby pack Smurfs 2 Bruiser and the Big Snow Planes Dialled Indoor Skatepark Nigel Latta Dunger - Joy Cowley Mortal Fire - Elizabeth Knox

   

Toucan - Juliette MacIver Bambi Peter Pan Recipes for play

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, PO Box 36 004, Christchurch to reach us by October 12th 2013, unless stated otherwise. Only one entry per household.

Win a DVD of the Disney classic Peter Pan

WIN, WIN,

WIN!

Peter Pan – 5 June 2013 out of the Disney Vault Join mischievous Peter Pan, the young boy who refuses to grow up, his hot-tempered pixie pal Tinker Bell and the Darling children as they soar away to the mysterious Never-Never land where childhood lasts forever in this magical, musical adventure. We have 10 of these to give away. www.familytimes.co.nz

11

cool activities

Calendar of Events Spring welcomes longer days to enjoy with family and friends. This Calendar of Events lists everything from walking festivals to school fairs.

Night Markets – Experience the food, stalls, music and fun night time atmosphere at the weekly markets that have started up around Auckland. Visit www.aucklandnightmarket.co.nz.

Every Thursday Free hip hop workshops for kids - Workshops for kids aged 5 to 10 every Thursday

from 5-6pm at the Otahuhu Town-Hall Community Centre. Email otahuhu-hiphop@hotmail.com.

21 September (Saturday) Good as New Pre-Loved Kids’ Market 9am-12 noon, Orewa Community Centre.

Forty plus stalls, quality second-hand kids’ toys, clothes, furniture and accessories.

22 September Zen Garden Cherry Blossom Festival - A time-honoured Japanese tradition of picnicking under a blooming sakura (cherry blossom) tree with friends and family. Visit www.zengarden.co.nz.

Kids’ Kingdom at Rainbow’s End Kidz Kingdom at Rainbow’s End is proving to be an incredible hit with Kiwi kids aged 8-years and under. Since opening earlier this year the feedback from mums and dads - and most importantly the children - has definitely been a huge thumbs up!

The all-weather complex has covered outdoor rides including some very exciting brand new rides like the Choco Express, Magic Bikes and Surf and Swing. There are now seven beautifully decorated birthday rooms that can be opened up to cater for larger group sizes. The birthday rooms are available for booked sessions, and then families can spend the whole day enjoying what Kidz Kingdom has to offer.

Inside there is the lovely Small Talk café, which offers café style meals, really good coffee and some different options for customers. The Dixie Chickens and the Fortress of Fun alone keep the children engaged and Comfy Land - an interactive and safe area for toddlers - is also very exciting and offers fun for even the youngest member of the family.

For everyday fun with your children, coffee groups, special occasions and birthdays, Kidz Kingdom is the ultimate day out. It also offers great value, with tickets available for the whole Kidz Kingdom or just the indoor area only. For all details and pricing have a look online at rainbowsend.co.nz.

28 September Ice Age - Enter the snowman building competition. Teams need to bring their own accessories to dress their snowman up and bring him to life! Don’t miss the Funky Monkeys performing and a live ice sculptor.

The entire event is free. Browns Bay Village Green, Glen Road, 9.30aM-12.30pm.

28 September – 13 October Auckland Heritage Festival - Celebrate Auckland’s heritage with more than 200 events and activities that will appeal to young and old alike. Most events are free. Event details at www.auclandcouncil.govt.nz.

28 September – 13 October Workshops on The Wharf - Holiday boredom buster! Free workshops for kids to get creative, taking place between 11am-2pm at Wynyard Quarter. Check out www.wynyardquarter.co.nz.

28 September – 13 October Message on a Mug - These school holidays, instead of sending messages in bottles why not paint them onto mugs at Torpedo Bay, Navy Museum? Visit www.navymuseum.mil.nz.

29 September Festival Italiano -The Italian community of Auckland will celebrate with a big street festival in Newmarket. Al fresco dining, an Italian market with more than 30 stalls, live music and entertainment.

Visit www.festivalitaliano.co.nz.

Take part in the fun Waiheke Walking Festival.

6 October Unitec Run and Walk Series – This event is designed for runners and walkers of all abilities, including kids. There will also be a kids’ entertainment zone. A great way for whole family to keep fit. Visit www.runwalk.co.nz.

9 – 12 October The Thing From The Place - A screamingly silly mash-up of movie monsters and mad scientists, The Thing From The Place will hilarify the kid in all of us these holidays. Auckland Town Hall, details www.the-edge.co.nz/thingfromtheplace.

Continued on page 13

SPRING OFFER Mention “Family Times” and receive 15% OFF!

For all your play-based educational resources. www.livelyminds.co.nz sales@livelyminds.co.nz

03-322 6323

New Zealand

SWIM SCHOOL OF THE YEAR &

2012 2013

Northern Arena SWIM SCHOOL OF THE YEAR

A standard of excellence in swim teaching unrivalled by any other learn to swim school in New Zealand

Can your child swim and survive? www.northernarena.co.nz 09 421 9700 surf: www.northernarena.co.nz email: info@northernarena.co.nz 8 Polarity Rise, Silverdale, Auckland

phone: 09 421 9700 find: 8 Polarity Rise, Silverdale

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cool activities

13 October Auckland Philharmonic Orchestra Open Day – A free fun day for the whole family to hear the orchestra, meet the musicians and get involved in making music. Visit www.apo.co.nz.

29 October (continuing on every Tuesday evening)

Takapuna State Beach Series – A fun and social event to keep fit, train for a bigger event or just enjoy a summer’s evening at the beach with your family. The junior run is a 19 October great distance for 5 to 12-year-old kids for a Kowhai Festival - Celebrate the beginning of small fee. Visit www.beachseries.co.nz/run. spring at the Warkworth Town Centre with 2 November a free family day of fun! One hundred street stalls, rides, performers, kids’ events and St Leos Village Fair – So much to see and more. For parking details and more informado! Great stalls, horizontal bungy, chuck-ation visit www.kowhaifestival.co.nz. choc stall, bouncy castle, throw a sponge, quick fire raffles, silent auctions and more. At 19-20 0ctober 102 Victoria Road, Devonport, Auckland.

Diwali Festival - Celebrate and experience 2 November Indian culture in its many exciting forms. Enjoy performances, authentic food or particiGood Shepherd School Fair –Fundraising pate in Rangoli “floor art” workshops. Amazto boost students’ and teachers’ technology ing theatre, lighting displays and decorations tools. Tantalising cuisine, pre-loved fashion, all ending with a fireworks display. Visit www. unique crafts, bric-a-brac treasures, kids’ enaucklandnz.com/diwali. tertainment and prizes to be won. Visit www. facebook.co/GoodShepherdSchoolFair.

25 October

The PIC Insurance Brokers’ Coastal Classic – One of the world’s most famous yacht races, attracting up to 200 yachts for a mass start off Devonport Wharf. One of the biggest yacht races, the Coastal Classic is a spectacle worth climbing North Head in Devonport for! From 9am.

25-28 October Armageddon Expo - Fun family event on Labour weekend. Gaming, comics, amusements, TV and movie stars, animation, trading cards, music and more! Visit www.armageddonexpo.com.

Entertainment

Rainbows End Spring is well and truly in Daily entertainment and world class the air! Now is a good time amusement rides. The best fun in New to start looking for some Zealand for everyone! Full details at www. entertainment ideas to keep rainbowsend.co.nz. your kids occupied during the school holidays. We’ve put together some options to Rainbows End - Night Rides A great night out from 5 – 11pm. There get you started. will also be Kidz Kingdom Night Rides for

holiday specials

Northern Arena Learn to swim at Northern Arena, Silverdale.

Fantastic classes available for babies and adults. Open for bookings on 09-421-9700 or visit www.northernarena.co.nz for more details.

Armageddon Expo Fun family event hits Labour weekend.

Gaming, comics, amusements, TV and movie stars, animation, trading cards, music and more! Visit www.armageddonexpo.com.

Sky Tower

3 November Adidas Auckland Marathon -Help raise funds for the Heart Foundation. Choose your distance from full marathon to the 5km challenge and kids’ events. Enjoy the Picnic in the Park post event at Victoria Park with live music and entertainment. Visit www.aucklandmarathon.co.nz.

Complied by Lee Keenan

Experience the amazing views from New Zealand’s tallest man made structure. Ride the glass elevator to discover something truly amazing! Visit www.skytower.co.nz.

7-11 October 2013

28 October Piha Labour Day Market – Enjoy food, crafts, kids’ activities, stalls and of course beautiful Piha beach. From 10am-2pm, Barnett Hall.

Coco Pops Activity Spot Come to LynnMall and be part of the Coco Pops Activity Spot arts and craft programme.

From 1-3 October, 11am-3pm daily. Visit www.lynnmall.co.nz.

Rotorua

TWO FULLFULL-LENGTH 1818-HOLE MINI GOLF COURSES IDEAL FOR ALL AGES

●●●

GRAND PRIX RACING CARS

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SEGWAYS

26 October – 3 November Waiheke Walking Festival – Thirty-eight free guided walks this spring. Walking really is the best way to experience the beauty of Waiheke in true island style. Get more details and register online: www.waihekewalkingfestival.org.

Don’t miss this great upcoming show on 12 October, ASB Show Grounds, Greenlane Road West. At 10am, 1pm and 4pm. Family ticket price $35. Phone 09-361-4599 for tickets.

Free drop in workshops where kids play and create. Workshops are from 11am -2pm and are generally near the play space in Wynyard Quarter. Details at www.wynyard-quarter.co.nz.

Educational, fun and engaging

Auckland Tall Ships Festival - Watch as 10 beautiful ships sail the Waitemata Harbour led

by Spirit of New Zealand. You can even hop on board and view the ships up close. All details at www.maritimemuseum.co.nz.

Aladdin

Workshops on The Wharf

HOLIDAY PROGRAMMES

25-28 October

the younger children from 5 – 9pm, 28 September, 5,12,19 and 26 October. Visit www.rainbowsend.co.nz.

●●● KIDDIE RIDE ONS AND SCOOTERS ●●● ICEICE-CREAMs AND DRINKS, YUMMY!

A complete, fun-filled day (9am-5pm) with adult supervision and experienced tutors.

Cnr Te Ngae Rd & Marguerita St, Rotorua Phone 07-348 6134 www.puttputt.co.nz

Choose from any or all of the following: • Computer programming • App Development • Minecraft • 3D Modelling & Animation • Art • Level-Design • Cooking & Baking

www.discoverylabs.co.nz

www.facebook.com/PuttPuttFamilyFunParkRotorua

Phone: (09) 972 1655

BRUCE MASON CENTRE & PHINEAS PHROG PRESENT

School holiday fun for the whole family!

Mon 7th – Sat 12th October, 10.30am daily BOOK TODAY! www.brucemason.co.nz or www.ticketmaster.co.nz or ph 970 9700

www.familytimes.co.nz

13

cool activities Northern Arena Learn to swim at Northern Arena Silverdale’s intensive learn-to-swim holiday programme.

Open for bookings on 09-421-9700 or visit www.northernarena.co.nz for more details.

Wor k shops

Royal Oak Mall

on th e W harf

Visit the mall and discover more than 50 stores offering a variety of goods and services including an international food court and plenty of free parking! Visit 691 Manukau Road, www.royaloakmall.co.nz.

Sky Tower

Breathtaking views from the top of Auckland’s Sky Tower.

These school holidays Sky Tower is celebrating the cinema release of Disney Planes. Visit www.skytower.co.nz to find out more.

Bruce Mason Centre Rumpelstiltskin A weird, wacky place, with a touch of wonderful thrown in for good measure!

Rumpelstiltskin is guaranteed to entertain the whole family. Visit www.brucemason.co.nz.

Discovery Labs Fun and educational school holiday programme. Learn Minecraft, programming, electronics, art, cooking and more. Visit www.discoverylabs.co.nz for more details.

Playhouse Theatre - Seussical This delightful children’s show is based on the ever-loved books by Dr. Seuss, including Cat in the Hat. Full show details at www. playhousetheatre.co.nz or bookings www. iticket.co.nz.

Bubble Dome Technology Workshops Learn Minecraft, App Design, Programming and more with Bubble Dome these Holidays.

For times and venues visit www.bubbledome. co.nz

to unwind, enjoy the movie pool or treat yourself at the Waiwera Day Spa. www.waiwera.co.nz Compiled by Lee Keenan

Bust the boredom these holidays.

Get your kids active with fun, FREE workshops in Wynyard Quarter!

Tell our advertiser you saw it in...

Free drop-in sessions between 11am-2pm.

For a full workshop timetable check out our website today.

Waiwera Thermal Resort Only 35 minutes north of Auckland, their natural thermal pools are the perfect place

www.wynyard-quarter.co.nz/workshops

Budget-friendly birthday parties If you are smarter than a 10year-old you can host a fun kid’s party without blowing the budget.

Expect them to sit at the table or on a rug to eat or you’ll be vacuuming sprinkles out of the carpet long after the kids have moved out. To avoid lolly overload, substitute a party bag with a single special treat like decorated cookies. Bake them on popsicle I really had parties sorted when our kids sticks. Ice and decorate, wrap in cellophane were little. We packed a mean party bag, with twirly ribbons and maybe a tiny toy and and even nailed that tricky shade of blue for let each child select one from the “bouquet” the “Thomas” cake. Give us a weepy, non to take home. Set a specific time for food so joiner-inner and we’d have them passing they don’t drift back and forward eating just the parcel like there was no tomorrow. We the treats. Plan to serve savoury food first coped with vomiters, non-eaters, over-eaters – sausage rolls, homemade sushi and mini and allergies. And we only had to call an pizzas or quiche are firm favourites – small ambulance that one time (silly boy shouldn’t food appeals to kids and you are less likely have been jumping anyway). to be tossing out loads of things with one Many kids worry that their party will “tank” bite out of them if the portions are small. or no one will show up, and parents don’t Kids will expect some treats but you can want to host a lame party. But neither do you include them as prizes for games if you prefer want to go overboard. not to have them on the table. Alternate fruit with marshmallows on skewers, make Party tricks: popcorn, and make mini cupcakes or jellies for something sweet.

For the under 10s, presentation is as important as the food itself - so decorate. It’s It’s a good idea to save birthday cake until just before leaving time as many kids prefer to cheap and fun. Balloons, plates and cups at take it home to enjoy after all the excitement. each place setting is a good start. You could add place cards, twinkle lights or named party Many party games also focus on food. We changed the famous “chocolate game” bags if using. from rolling a six on the dice, putting on the

Book and pay for a party for 10 kids and we will give you 3 extra kids for free* Lollipops Playland & Cafe North Shore

Lollipops Playland & Cafe Henderson

www.northshore.lollipopsplayland.co.nz

www.westauckland.lollipopsplayland.co.nz

179B Archers Road, Glenfield 201 Lincoln Road, Henderson Phone: 09-441 6157 Phone: 09-838 2033 northshore@lollipopsplayland.co.nz henderson@lollipopsplayland.co.nz

* TERMS & CONDITIONS: Voucher must be mentioned/presented at time of booking and party must be booked by the end of December 2013. Party conditions apply, and a $50 non-refundable deposit must be paid at the time of booking. New bookings only. Only valid for party bookings, available on any party package at Lollipops North Shore & Lollipops Henderson. NO FOOD OR DRINKS can be brought into the Playland. SOCKS MUST BE WORN at all times in the Playland.

Not to be used in conjuction with any other offer.

14

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Online stockists of partyware & decorations for all occasions costume and scoffing as much chocolate with the knife and fork before the next six is rolled, into an archaeological dig, filling the sandpit with buried plastic dinosaurs. The costume was an action man flak jacket, boots and hat and each six allowed you to dig up dinosaurs to take home until someone else in the circle rolled a six. Try an egg and spoon race with filled water balloons, and encourage any grownups to play too; the kids love it!

By Sophie Gray, Destitute Gourmet Limited, www.destitutegourmet.com.

• Wide range of stylish products • Children’s themed party supplies • Pretty, boutique items • New products arriving regularly!

www.pixiepartysupplies.co.nz

Playhouses built-to-order.

• Candyfloss • Bouncy Castles • Popcorn • Mechanical Bull/ Surfboard • Gladiators Mention this ad and receive a bubble machine hire worth $60 FREE with bouncy castle hire.

0800 321 FUN www.321fun.co.nz

• Many designs • Package deals

• Accessories • Timber sheds built • Layby • Finance available • Cedit cards accepted.

Taking Christmas orders now!

Ph: 09-438 4660 • www.playhouses.co.nz Email: sales@playhouses.co.nz

Take the fitness challenge Health, fitness and exercise are key words sitting in the recesses of every parent’s mind; especially Kiwi parents since the Ministry of Health released the following stats:

report back to us. KiDSMARATON was created by New Zealand Olympian Rod Dixon. He developed this unique programme to encourage children and their parents to run a full marathon (42.2 kilometres total) kilometre by kilometre over an 8 to 10-week time frame. The programme is being started in a few schools around the country, but is focused on families and their participation.

It’s very simple to start. Go online to www.  The child obesity rate in New Zealand kidsmarathonfoundation.co.nz/teachers/ children has increased from 8% in 2006/07, training-guide/ to read about the specific to 10% in 2011/12 (in children aged 2 to details of the programme. Under the menu 14-years). bars you’ll find support materials, a training  A further 21% of children were programme guide and a sheet you can print overweight (but not obese). off to keep track of your family’s progress.

The obvious conclusion is that children who The training guide is the core resource for the are consistently more active are likely to be Rod Dixon KiDSMARATHON programme. healthier adults. And we all know, people who In the guide you’ll find general knowledge, don’t exercise are at risk of developing high nutritional information, warm-up routines blood pressure, osteoporosis, heart disease, and of course a log book for kids and teachers and other chronic illnesses. Sounds like a to follow and complete. The objective is prescription to get moving — now! simple. Get up and get moving!

The Family Times’ team is dedicated to This programme is fun, inexpensive and offering you simple, fun, free ways to help fitness oriented to help you and your children your family start and retain exercise habits. accomplish a health goal together. Creating As spring and summer are just around the family activity time is all about scheduling it corner, we want to challenge you - our avid together and then following through with the readers - and your children, to participate activities. So, let us know how it goes. in the KiDSMARATHON programme and Email us at admin@familytimes.co.nz with experiences and photos. We want to support you and your family in this goal. Plus, if you have any other ideas to help families get moving, drop us an email. We’d love to share your comments with our Family Times readers. Remember, the most important thing is to enjoy and have fun with the experience, and the result is the development of healthy family habits.

By Jennifer Beck Jennifer Beck is a writer and business strategist. She has six children and starts each day off with a morning walk to balance the insanity.

Family Fitness Event

‘Papakura Half Marathon’ held at Bruce Pullan Park , September the 22nd 2013, starting from 9am. It will be a great day out for the whole family – you can run, skate, push a pram, stroller, ride a scooter or wheelchair.With a 5km, 10km, 21km, entertainment, music, prizes and guest celebrities. For more information contact John Bowden: johnb01@xtra.co.nz\

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baby & toddler

Breastfeeding in public B

ritish poet Hollie McNish’s provocative, raw poem, Embarrassed, on breastfeeding in public toilets (http:// www.youtube.com/watch?v=KiS8q_fifa0) has spurred international discussion.

Hollie felt forced into toilets, following negative reactions after finding courage to publicly feed her newborn.

In New Zealand we are perhaps more accepting, but for most new mothers public “exposure” is still daunting. Elaborate wrapping ensues, lest we offend. With one or even two baby’s heads over breast(s) and mouth covering nipple there is actually little to see, except for ample-bosomed mothers who can’t be so discrete and predominantly opt - like one friend - for their car.

Use of cars and toilets as breastfeeding safe havens is common, but what have

because of body image, because I am unsure of my mothering, because I had difficulty breastfeeding and instead bottle-feed etc?

breastfeeding mothers got to hide and who exactly are we hiding from? I’m unaware of other mammals making mammary use a “not in public” exercise.

Watching a mother connect with her baby/toddler/preschooler and nurture them, particularly through the intimacy of breastfeeding, is one of the most beautiful vistas on earth. It symbolises love, hope and the future. A friend with grown up kids sums up the best approach no matter how you feed: “When I fed there was no one else in the world but me and my baby.” Public space is our space too.

By Dr Victoria Metcalf Dr Victoria Metcalf is a biologist and lecturer in genetics at Lincoln University, and also a mum to a busy preschooler.

Feeding in public could be defined as “in the presence of others,” as criticism may come from close quarters. One mother got asked by a relative to take her baby to the toilet to feed in her own house! That alone damages breastfeeding relationships.

Twenty years ago before breasts became market property, mothers it seemed, felt more freedom to feed where they wanted.

Now, mothers who breastfeed beyond a year, two or three, often retreat into privacy beyond certain ages for fear that their continued feeding is inappropriate. The best role modelling a breastfeeding mother can do is feed her child in public, age regardless,

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Enter online at www.familytimes.co.nz or write your name and address on the back of an envelope or postcard and send to: Bop It Tetres, PO Box 36 004, Christchurch, to reach us by 13 October 2013. Check out our website for more fantastic competitions.

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easing the path for those following.

Regardless of the feeding choices we make, how we feel when feeding our children provides a powerful insight into our beliefs.

Gauging levels of (dis)comfort can, if examined, let us unravel how we really feel, peel off societal filters and just be. Is that person staring or do I feel self-conscious

2013 and 2014 primary and intermediate school term dates

SCHOOL TERM DATES

Sarah says, “The best thing I did to get breastfeeding off to a good start was go along to La Leche League meetings when I was pregnant. After my baby was born, my friendly La Leche League leader was available to answer my questions and give support.” La Leche League meetings are available at 50 groups throughout New Zealand. If you need help with breastfeeding, contact La Leche League.

Your leader will listen and offer practical suggestions. La Leche League leaders are breastfeeding mothers who are trained to give accurate, up-to-date breastfeeding information. Auckland Breastfeeding answerphone 09-846-0752.

2013 and 2014 secondary and composite school term dates Term 4, 2013

Monday 14 October to Friday 20 December

Term 4, 2013

Monday 14 October to no later than Friday 20 December

Term 1, 2014

Term 1, 2014

Between Monday 27 January (at the earliest); and Friday 7 February (at the latest) to Thursday 20 April

Between Monday 27 January (at the earliest); and Friday 7 February (at the latest) to Thursday 20 April

Term 2, 2014

Term 2, 2014

Monday 21 July to Friday 26 September

Monday 5 May to Friday 4 July

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Monday 21 July to Friday 26 September

Monday 5 May to Friday 4 July

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CONTACT US: (09) 846 0752 EMAIL: help@lalecheleague.org.nz www.facebook.com/LLLNZ www.lalecheleague.org.nz

safety

Changes to child restraint laws may affect your family From 1 November the mandatory use of child restraints in vehicles will be extended by two years, with all children required to be correctly secured in an approved restraint until their seventh birthday (this includes booster seats).

C

hildren aged seven will continue to be required to be secured in an approved child restraint if one is available in the vehicle, and if not, in any child restraint or safety belt that is available.

The law changes will help reduce preventable The law says you must:

deaths and serious injuries to children travelling in vehicles.

Seats and safety belts installed in vehicles are designed and manufactured to most effectively protect an average-sized adult in the event of a crash. Children, because they are smaller and have a different body shape to adults, need additional seating equipment to keep them as safe as adults in a car.

Types of child restraints include: • infant restraints for young babies (baby capsules).

• restraints for older babies, toddlers and preschool children (car seats or car restraints).

• booster seats for preschool and schoolaged children (boosters). These position children in the seat so they can safely use the adult safety belt.

• child safety harnesses (used with or

Until 31 October 2013

Correctly secure your child in Until their 5th birthday an approved child restraint The law also says you must:

Until 31 October 2013

without a booster seat) for preschool and school-aged children.

Using a booster seat lifts a child to the correct height/dimensions to best fit the adult seat belt, which in turn reduces the potential trauma suffered by a child in the event of a crash.

Child restraints used in New Zealand must be approved and must display standards markings to show they are approved and safe to be used. Children must be seated in a restraint that provides a suitable fit that is appropriate for their age and size.

It’s a driver’s responsibility to make sure any child, under the age of 15, travelling in their vehicle is correctly secured. So parents and caregivers should start thinking now about how they’ll meet the new requirements from 1 November.

For information on approved child restraint standards and where to find expert advice from a certified child restraint technician, visit www.nzta.govt.nz/childrestraints.

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Together, the best start for every child | Whanau awhina www.familytimes.co.nz NZTA CR FamilyTimes PRINT.indd 1

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7/08/13 2:42 PM

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.

Junior Fiction

Picture Books Goldilocks and the Three Dinosaurs

By Mo Willems Walker Books Hardback $28 Three dinosaurs make some tempting chocolate pudding and loudly proclaim that they are going out and hope a succulent young girl doesn’t come to visit.

Sure enough Goldilocks arrives and gobbles up the pudding, but eventually pays heed to the signs that this is not the abode of a bear family and she’d better vamoose. The illustrations are rich with clues and kids will love spotting the warning signs in this ironic take on the traditional tale.

The Day the Crayons Quit

By Drew Daywalt Illustrated by Oliver Jeffers HarperCollins Hardback $29.99 Duncan opens his crayon box to find letters from the crayons who have gone on strike, unhappy at being misused or ignored in preference for other colours – only green is happy. Each crayon has its own distinct personality conveyed in their letter (written in crayon of course) and accompanying drawing in Jeffers’ distinctive style. Duncan resolves things with a picture at the end that keeps everyone happy. Ages 4 plus.

Ben and the Icky-OokySticky-Smick

By Sally Sutton Walker Books Hardback $30 Ben loves bugs, particularly his favourite icky-ooky-sticky-smick, but there is chaos in the house when it goes missing! Family members’ screams come from all around the house as they find a variety of bugs - all with fabulous names like the lurky-murky-dottle-spot - all of which are identified by Ben for their different characteristics. The tongue twisting names, rich language and imagination are well matched with Venn’s contemporary stylish illustrations and varied typography.

New Zealand Girl: Rebecca and the Queen of Nations

By Deborah Burnside Puffin Paperback $15 Take a trip back into our history with Rebecca (10) who travels by ship from Ireland to New Zealand.

She finds her older brother, a sailor on the Queen of Nations, who finds her a job as servant to a family on the ship. The details of ship life, including storms and a difficult birth, are simply yet vividly written and will captivate a young reader from 8 to 12-years.

Dinosaur Rescue: Scutostickysaurus

By Kyle Mewburn Illustrated by Donovan Bixley Scholastic Paperback $12 Arg, an unusually intelligent cave boy, discovers a noisy scutosaurus with branches and leaves attached by a sticky vine. Arg tries to save the scut from being killed but gets stuck himself. Thank goodness for his best mate Skeet the T-Rex who helps get them to Big Bone Lake where Arg has a clever idea to get them both unstuck. Giant helpings of gross humour, with hilarious illustrations to keep the reader laughing until the end.

Ages 7 to 10-years.

Flora & Ulysses: The Illuminated Adventures

By Kate DiCamillo Illustrated by K G Campbell Candlewick Press Paperback $25 Flora (10) is a young cynic who loves comics.

When a squirrel is nearly killed by a vacuum cleaner but emerges with superstrength and the ability to write poetry and fly, Flora has to protect this unusual superhero from his arch-nemesis, aided by a cast of eccentric characters who each provide their own flavour of good advice. The rich, classic, comic-influenced language is interspersed with soft pencil panels of illustrations. Ages 8 plus.

Intermediate Fiction Sinking

By David Hill Scholastic Paperback $19.50 A frightening old man stumbles out of the bushes one day when Conrad is on his way from swimming training. He’s the grandfather of the strange new girl at school, Bex. At first they don’t get on but she needs a friend – her grandfather is behaving strangely and there are rumours he is linked to a historic tragedy at the river. A dramatic story with friendship at its heart. Ages 10 to 15-years.

The Thing about Luck

By Cynthia Kadohata Simon & Schuster Paperback $21.00 One thing after another goes wrong for Summer’s family.

Her parents have to go to Japan, just before wheat harvest when they earn the mortgage money. This leaves Summer (12) and her brother to go to harvest with their ailing grandparents: Jiichan driving the combine and Summer helping the demanding Obaachan cook the meals. Summer is growing up and taking on responsibility as she works out what makes everyone tick, and we also learn about Japanese and harvest cultures.

View from the 32nd Floor

By Emma Cameron Walker Books Paperback $19 William spies on the neighbouring high-rise apartments from his room on the 32nd floor. He sees a new girl there and finds a way to meet her. When they become friends they reach out to the other apartment dwellers, helping the lonely and frail ones to make friends and discover a more enjoyable life, culminating in a rooftop party for everyone. There is much list-making, planning and delicious food involved as they draw their diverse community together.

Knowledge books Running the Country: A Look Inside New Zealand’s Government

By Maria Gill New Holland Paperback $24.99 This informative guide reveals how our government works, who is part of it, what they do and what the rules are. This is a system with a lot of history and tradition behind it, explained as simply as possible, with photographs and diagrams to help, and caricatures of some of the people involved (by a political cartoonist Malcolm Evans). There are handy internet links provided and a useful glossary and index. Ages 8 plus.

Wearable Wonders

By Fifi Colston Scholastic Paperback $21 If you like to make stuff from whatever you have around the house, this book has an abundance of projects for you to try. Fifi has been a long-time World of Wearable Arts competitor and is master of crafts - making useful things out of materials like egg cartons, tin foil and bubble wrap. Includes information about what sort of glue to use, and how to hold things together. Ages 9 plus.

Recipes for Play: Fun ideas for small hands and big imaginations Recipes by Rachel Sumner Photographs

by Ruth Mitchener Penguin Paperback $30 A book brim-full of things to make and do with a little one.

Vivid photographs capture the crafts, toys, activities and games that can be made mostly with things you will already have around the house or in the garden: simple ideas rich in colour and texture that are both easy to make and to clean up. A great resource for any parent of a young child.

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Keeping the family entertained when driving New Zealand is a veritable 20 Questions would a road trip be without an old paradise to explore on a road What fashioned game of 20 Questions? One player trip: the stunning scenery in thinks of an animal, plant or object and the players are given a total of 20 “yes” or Godzone makes the journey other “no” questions to guess the player’s item. every bit as delightful as the The game usually begins by narrowing down whether the item is an animal, vegetable or destination. mineral; for instance, you could ask “Is it an

I

t takes a little bit more planning if you’re taking the whole family along, but the journey can be just as much fun with just a little forethought into keeping them occupied, and you can create family memories that will last for a lifetime.

Children generally have less patience for the journey than adults, so if you want to avoid the inevitable, “are we there yet,” remember, with littlies you will need to prepare for regular snacks, and provide regular stops to stretch and make use of bathroom facilities.

Then there’s entertainment.

Lots of kids today take along modern technology such as iPads, portable gaming consoles or DVDs, but if you want to make the most of the time together and build family bonds, how about some good old-fashioned car games?

Not only can family car games help pass the time and fill in the gaps between break stops, it can further your children’s education.

Check out these fun family favourites.

Chances are, your children will pass these games on to their children, and so on. Of course, the driver’s prime concern should be safe driving!

animal?” Other good questions can relate to size, such as whether the item is larger than a breadbox, or location (e.g., “Would you find it in a kitchen?”). Any of your 20 questions can be a guess. If you do not correctly identify the item after 20 questions, one free bonus guess is permitted.

Word Scramble

To play Scramble, think of a five or six letter word, such as “punch,” and say the letters aloud in a random order, such as C-H-P-N-U. It’s fun to see how quickly–or long–it takes for your opponent to guess your word.

Spot a mini

To play this game, you get five points each time you spot a mini (or choose a different type of car) while travelling. Points are accrued over any journey, but start afresh once you’ve achieved your destination.

The sighting has to be confirmed by another person in the car, and incorrect or unconfirmed sightings mean you have to deduct that number of points off your score.

Car cricket

If you’re travelling long distance off the city streets, you might like to try car cricket. One

person is “in” until they get either “run out” (by being passed by another car) or “caught out” (by someone seeing a Ford) or bowled (if a motorcycle is seen).

While that person is in they score a single run each time they see a car, two runs if they see a four-wheel-drive, a boundary if they see a truck and a six for any vehicle carrying livestock.

Possible variations on car cricket are endless, and if the children are young you can use colours rather than makes of car. It is usually played as two teams so that individual players who may be a bit weaker with their maths are supported by stronger team members.

Not a Word

Not a word must pass your lips as you take turns telling a story using facial expression, gestures and self-made sound effects. Choose a wellknown, easy story such as Snow White. The first person to guess the story takes the next turn.

True or False

Everyone closes their eyes except for the designated “looker” (and the driver of course!) While the looker describes what she sees i.e. passing scenery, animals, vehicles, the rest have to decide if it’s true or false.

She might say “I see two cows.” There might be two cows or no cows or four cows. Every wrong guess gains one point and the player with the lowest score wins the game. *Time each turn perhaps 5 minutes each.

Eye Spy

This all-time classic is good for littlies who are just learning their letters and the sounds they make, right up to adults. One player sees an object either inside or outside of the car, and says, “I spy with my little eye, something beginning with …” and states the letter that the object begins with. Other players have to guess the object.

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