Family Times - Dunedin - Spring 2013

ISSN 2324 4526 ISSN 2324 4534

DUNEDIN / ISSUE 57 / 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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Contents

From the editor M

Features

4 The importance of grandparents

How to preserve these relationships from afar

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6 Digital dilemmas

Internet addiction and our children

Your parenting questions answered

15 Top reads

Take the Family Times’ family fitness challenge

16 Road trips

How changes to child restraint laws may affect your family

Comment

7 Words of wisdom 13 Fit families 14 Safety

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Recommended reading these school holidays

Car games to keep the kids entertained

8 Kids’ view

We ask kids about their use of technology and rules around it

Special features 12 Birthday parties

Low-cost tips

9 10 11 13

School term dates Calendar of events Entertainment Help is @ hand

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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

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!

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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

Media Executives Shona Robb, Nicky Barnett, Jane Hunter, Tina Barriball, Katrina Wright, Naomh Cusin, Penny Leary , Linda Radovancich Office Manager Raelyn hay Office Assistant Jackie Pithie

Contributing Writers Rosanna Hill, Sally Kabak, Diane Levy Sophie Gray, Jennifer Beck, Crissi Blair Reach us at: Family Publishers (NZ), P.O. Box 36-004, Christchurch 8146, NZ Ph. 03-355-9186 0800285 510 Fax: 03 3559 183 Mobile. 0274-359-414 admin@familytimes.co.nz www.familytimes.co.nz Distribution Printed and distributed quarterly approximately two weeks before each major school holiday.

13,500 are circulated through early childhood centres, primary and intermediate schools, The Dunedin City Event Shop, selected medical and midwifery premises and McDonalds Restaurants. The opinions expressed in this publication are not those of the publisher unless indicated otherwise. No part of this publication may be reprinted without the expressed written permission of the publisher.

Family Times is not responsible for unsolicited material. Family Times is funded and published solely through the support of its advertisers. They support us, so please support them. www.familytimes.co.nz

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feature story

Grandparenting from a distance G

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 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;

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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

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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

The importance of communication

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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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.”

Tips on grandparenting from afar

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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. “

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Internet addiction and our children to the Internet, though.

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

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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

or hostility may be more inclined to use the 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

Provided by Rosa Wilson, visit www.becomeananny.com/blog/ problematic computer user will need to help their child make healthy decisions regarding 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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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.

My house, my rules

Q

I have a shared-care relationship of my 8-year-old son. His father has him four days out of seven, so he seems to think his rules are what should be followed. This leads to arguments with my son re bed time, what to eat, time on computer, etc. Any advice?

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Which rules should operate in a household is a difficult issue for parents who see eye-to-eye to sor t out, let alone parents who have needed to separate and live apar t. So let’s sor t two options – ideal and real.

The ideal option would be for you and your son’s father to sit down together and sort out the rules that should apply in both households. Your son has more than enough to deal with shifting households so frequently and he doesn’t need to live in two different cultures and time zones. I imagine that this is never going to happen though – so let’s look at a more manageable option.

The reality is that most parents have very little – if any – ability to influence the household of their “ex” and have even less inclination to change the rules of their own household, so the option is to have your own

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Q

Let’s split this situation into two issues – the timing of getting our children to speak, and responding so that they will feel supported. rules and to make them stick even when your Some children want to blurt out everything child insists that he has a better time at his the moment they come home from school dad’s home. and others are not ready to talk until much Consult friends (whose parenting you admire) later. I have found that the best time, with a as to which rules they use and open a dialogue child who is reluctant to speak after school, is with your 8-year-old. Rather than presenting at bed-time. him with bald rules for him to resist, discuss When you tuck her in, be prepared for a chat. with him what are reasonable limits in terms A good opening is “What was the hardest of his health, wellbeing and capacity, to learn thing for you today?” This gives your child the following day. permission to talk about bad stuff and also implies that bad stuff is a normal part of the day and therefore can be spoken about Which rules should operate without feeling different or ashamed. in a household is a difficult Once she does speak, your job is to listen issue for parents who see eye- actively in a way that allows her to keep sharing her woes. Avoid the temptation to to-eye to sort out, let alone rush to solutions – particularly the useless parents who have needed to advice “just walk away.” Useful phrases are “that’s horrible for you,” “that sounds awful,” separate and live apart. “how mean is that!” or “how unkind is that?”

I always work on the basis that you need to do this for a fortnight (10 school days). By the end Whatever you two decide, write down the of this time, one of two things may happen: agreements and, most importantly, write down in being able to talk things through with you, a review date for three weeks away with the you may have given your child the support and undertaking that you will trial them and then strength to handle the situation differently – or check how it is working for the two of you.

– you have a lot of factual information to go to This respectful approach should place the two the school and seek their help. of you (you and your son) on the same side.

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Grandparents play a huge role in children’s lives. This issue, students from East Taieri School told us about their grandparents; why they are so special and how they keep in contact with them when they are far away.

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Mitchell Joint, 10, year 6

I’ve got a set of grandparents here (Dunedin); we go to their house every morning before school. My other grandma is in Christchurch; she often comes down and stays for a couple of weeks. We always make her bring chocolate chip cookies!

We keep in touch on the phone. I call her most days to talk and see what she’s doing and if she’s ok. My grandparents are really important to me, they always support me.

Olivia Buchanan-Letts, 11, year 6

I have Nana and Granddad in Dunedin and a grandma up in Cromwell. They show me I am special to them by the things they do for me. I’m just lucky to have themmy life would be pretty different without them. My granddad passed away- he was really nice and special to me. Grandma in Cromwell comes to visit a lot. She’s an amazing cook, especially with mince; when mum makes the same things they don’t taste right!

Olivia Fowler, 10, year 6

I’ve got a set of grandparents in Oamaru; they phone us and we always tell them if something exciting happens. They always make time for me and encourage me to do things.

I have a grandmother in Fiji. I’ve only met her twice and I remember meeting her when I was three or four years old.

She doesn’t have Skype and we don’t talk on the phone but I think we are going to visit her soon.

Ben Hackfath, 11, year 6

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Active Furnishers Ltd 24 Mailer Street, Dunedin 9011

t: 03 453 0499 f: 03 453 0499 free phone 0800 453 049 e: sales@activefurnishers.co.nz w: www.activefurnishers.co.nz

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Wildlife • Walks • Events • Visitor Centre • Café

My nana and papa live in Queenstown; we go to visit them a lot and they always have time for me. Papa is really good at woodwork and we are going to make a go-cart together.

I have a grandma in Sydney and she comes over two times a year. We always call her around 9pm to talk. We Skype my grandparents in Queenstown but my Grandma in Sydney doesn’t like to have anything to do with computers or technology.

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!

WIN, WIN,

WIN!

Win LEGO® Friends Emma’s Sports Car RRP $24.99 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 www.orokonui.org.nz

– a – (Dave Curtis) Kak

Open Daily 9.30am-4.30pm Ph 03 482 1755 600 Blueskin Rd, Waitati, Dunedin, New Zealand 8

www.familytimes.co.nz

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.

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:

2013 and 2014 primary and intermediate school term dates

SCHOOL TERM DATES

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 17 April

Between Monday 27 January (at the earliest); and Friday 7 February (at the latest) to Thursday 17 April

Term 2, 2014

Term 2, 2014

Monday 21 July to Friday 26 September

Monday 5 May to Friday 4 July

Term 3, 2014

Monday 21 July to Friday 26 September

Monday 5 May to Friday 4 July

Term 3, 2014

Remaining public holidays 2013 27 October 25 December

Labour Day Christmas Day

Little Wonders 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 turining 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.

“In March this year, Little Wonders St Kilda helped to celebrate the opening of Little Wonders Roslyn by attending its fantastic opening day. Since then we have enjoyed watching them grow in numbers and it has been great for our staff and families to have the choice of two Little Wonders Centres in Dunedin. We look forward to more interactions with Little Wonders Roslyn and wish you all the very best for the rest of 2013.”

Little Wonders Roslyn offers a new purpose -built centre with a friendly vibrant team.

It warmly welcome new families to come in to meet the teachers and view the new

centre. Roslyn has five classrooms and a cook onsite who provides the children with healthy food options. The teachers have designed specific learning programmes in a language-rich environment to meet the learning needs of children and families in the community aged from three months to five years. Little Wonders Roslyn encourages parents to share aspirations for their children so together we can care for and educate happy confident children.

Little Wonders Roslyn is licensed for 100 children. Any enquiries please call Kate or Tessa on 03-476-3818 or pop in and see the team.

9-12 - Cameron Galbraith, Age 9 -

“Rocket slippers with i-pad charger”

WIN, WIN,

WIN!

Win one of 10 AVEENO® Baby packs!

We have 10 delicious AVEENO® Baby packs worth $52 each to give WIN, WIN, Toucan Can By away. Specially formulated with Juliette MacIver, ACTIVE NATURALS® ingredients and paediatrician recommended, and illustrations by AVEENO® Baby products help Sarah Davis nourish, soothe and protect baby’s sensitive skin. Each pack A tongue-twisting, ludicrous rhyming contains: Baby Soothing Relief Creamy picture book full of escalating hilarity and Wash - a tear-free wash that leaves skin off-the-wall characters. Toucan can do moisturised for 24 hours; Baby Wash and lots of things! Toucan dances. Toucan Shampoo - for gentle cleansing that rinses sings. Toucan bangs a frying pan. Can clean with a soft, fresh fragrance; Baby you do what Toucan can? Ages three Soothing Relief Moisture Cream - for non-greasy moisturisation; and Baby Daily plus, Gecko Press, www.geckopress.

Lotion – an emollient rich formula that co.nz, paperback with flaps RRP$19.99. protects against and Hardback with jacket RRP$34.99. alleviates chapping and chaffing to keep We have 10 of these to give away. your baby’s skin soft.

WIN!

Just tick the things you want to win Spring 2013

   

Smurfs2 AVEENO baby pack LEGO Toucan

Name Address

OtagOs Leading earLy ChiLdhOOd PrOvider Little Wonders St Kilda, 146A Victoria Rd, St Kilda, Dunedin Ph: (03) 455-3337 Little Wonders Roslyn, 98 Taieri Rd, Roslyn, Dunedin Ph: (03) 476-3818

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

www.littlewonderschildcare.co.nz www.familytimes.co.nz

9

cool activities

Calendar of Events Spring is in the air with fresh, and Danny Still for a fun and joyful show.

Dunedin Botanic Garden Bandstand. For exciting and enchanting dates and times visit www.dunedin.govt.nz. family events all over the city. 10-13 October 21 September School Holiday Carnival. Enjoy a great Garden party and garden tour. Enjoy a variety of stalls; food, plants, raffles, and entertainment. Party, 10am-4pm, Broad Bay School, free entry. Garden tour from 11am3pm, $15 per person. For enquiries phone 03-476-0100.

Port Chalmers Seafood Festival 2013.

Taste delectable seafood, plus a huge variety of food stalls, music and entertainment with a big focus on family fun. From 11am-4pm, transport options available. For tickets and details visit www.festival.portchalmers.com.

26 September Dancing Like the Stars 2013 – The Final Showcase. Students from Brockville, Carisbrook Main and Carisbrook Terraces Primary Schools perform Irish, Indian and swing dance routines. From 6pm-7.30pm, Toitu Otago Settlers Museum, free.

5 and 6 October Dunedin Gasworks 150 Festival. Celebrate the 150th anniversary of the Dunedin Gasworks with music, dance, exhibitions and Gaslight parade. From 11am-4pm, Dunedin Gasworks Museum, 50 Braemar Street, adult $5, child $2. For event details and programme visit www.gasworks150.org.nz.

6 October Family Fun Day Duck Dive at Moana Pool. Buy a duck for $5 to win massive prizes in support of the Child Cancer Foundation.

Lots of activities, and remember to bring $2 coins to buy a duck for mini races in the whirlpool. From 4pm, Moana Pool, $2 pool entry.

7-11 October Clown Show for Kids. Join Kaitrin McMullan

family day at the fair; amusement rides, games, carnival food and giant inflatables. The Oval, free entry.

13 October New Balance Hill Free Half Marathon.

Challenge the family with an event that caters to all ages and abilities including a 10km run/ walk and 2km run for children under 12. For full details and to register visit www.hillcity. org.nz/hillfree.

15 October Tall Tales and Tangos. The New Zealand Symphony Orchestra brings the tale of Peter and the Wolf (narrated by Aton Oliver) to life in a magical evening of music and dance, 6.30pm, Dunedin Town Hall. For bookings phone 0800-224-224.

20 October

10 November Portobello Paddock Pursuit. Get active at this non-competitive physical event for kids who love conquering obstacles and challenges. From 11am-2pm. Register online at www.portobelloschool.wikispaces.com.

Gala Day. Fantastic all-day event to celebrate the 150th Otago Anniversary Year.

Plant sale, tours and entertainment, afternoon variety show, kids’ zone and train rides. From 17 November 9am-4pm, Dunedin Botanic Garden. For full The Amazing Oamaru Victorian Fete programme visit www.dunedin.govt.nz.

Street Fair: a wonderful family day of dance, street theatre and magic.

23 October – 4 December music, Take in the sights and sounds of an authentic Royal New Zealand Ballet presents Tutus Victorian Fete with market stalls, traditional on Tour. Highlights from 60 years of ballet. craft demonstrations, penny farthings, Includes a new production of Peter and the competitions, costume display and much, Wolf, with narration by Te Radar. Tour of much more. From 10am until 4pm.

Heartland New Zealand. Visit www.nzballet. org.nz/tutus.

24 November

25-27 October 2013 ScienceTeller Festival. What can we learn from dung beetles, frogs, asteroids and Antarctica? See the world premiere of films

See the brilliance of brains at Otago Museum these holidays Join us as we become brainiacs these school holidays! Sign up for Discovery Squad, every weekday during the holidays, as we go around the world from Japan to the Wild West to the tropics – or even join the circus for a day. Try not to lose your marbles with our brain-busting trail, free every day during the holidays, or venture into the Tropical Forest to discover some of the most deadly

Little ones get active at last year’s Stride, Ride & Slide. by graduate students and much more. For more info visit www.scienceteller.com.

yet devious creatures on Earth every Sunday, Monday, Wednesday and Friday at 2pm. Explore the perplexing properties of spider silk at the Investigation Station, daily at 3.30pm, and blast into Discovery World to explore all things energy in daily science shows. Check out our website for more details and bookings at www.otagomuseum.govt.nz.

LIVE BUTTERFLY EXPERIENCE...

INSIDE THE OTAGO MUSEUM!

Stride, Ride & Slide. A super fun multisport day for big little kids aged 2 to 6-years. From 10am-1pm at Logan Park. For details and to register visit www.sportotago.co.nz.

Cycle back in time! The Amazing Oamaru Victorian Fete Street Fair Sunday 17 November. For stalls and information email fete@victorianoamaru.co.nz.

Blue Line Music Studio

Create. Record. Play. Blue Line Music Studio is a contemporary music teaching and recording studio that aims to bring out the best in young people through education in guitar, bass, drums, ukulele, piano, singing, song-writing, and recording.

The experienced staff encourage creativity and knowledge of the industry through instrument lessons, specialised workshops, band development and recording programs.

The studio is located at 42 Filluel Street, behind the Wall Street Mall, and features

recording suites, band practice spaces, quality gear and much more. This term Blue Line is pleased to announce The Ukulele Orchestra and The Creative Lab, an opportunity for you to take your skills and interests to the next level. Stay tuned for more information on the exciting new holiday immersion project. So come along and get your music out there! For more information or to register for workshops and lessons visit: www.bluelinemusicstudio.co.nz or email info@bluelinemusicstudio.co.nz.

Piano, voice, guitars, bass, keyboards, drums, ukulele, music theory, songwriting and recording.

Visit our website, or call us for more info.

Phone: 03-425 0706. info@bluelinemusicstudio.co.nz

419 Great King Street, Dunedin 10

www.familytimes.co.nz

OPEN 7 DAYS 10am – 5pm

www.otagomuseum.govt.nz

cool activities

Entertainment 25 November Scottish Highland Games. Highland games for the whole family where participation is a must! Traditional games and events for children from 12pm-5pm at Caledonian Ground, Logan Park, $10 gate charge, children under 14 free.

25-29 November Nurturing the Seed of Change workshop.

Created for family and support persons of those with ASD; based on the 30 life concepts outlined in the book; Autism & the Seeds of Change. Arrowtown. Visit www.davisautism. com for details.

Compiled by Rosanna Hill

Tell our advertiser you saw it in...

Green Street

Green Street ECE is a not-for-profit community-based centre with 20 years experience. It has two centres: House 11 (ages 0 to 5-years) and House 13 (3 to 5-years), which gives parents optimum choice. Green Street is open from 8am 5.30pm, Monday to Friday, only closing at Christmas, and has an economical hourly flat rate, offering WINZ, 20-hour free ECE with no part charges.

Green Street has a caring team of highlyqualified, trained teachers, excellent resources and learning programmes. We believe we provide a great investment in your children’s future!

Entertain the kids with a great range of activities for the whole family this spring.

Blue Line Music Studio

Register now for brand new workshops including The Ukulele Orchestra and The Creative Lab! Visit www.bluelinemusicstudio. co.nz or email info@bluelinemusicstudio. co.nz to find out more.

Edgar Centre The Edgar Centre is a great place for families to come and play some sport together. It’s open seven days. Phone 03-456-1200.

Chipmunks Looking after the grandchildren these holidays? Chipmunks Indoor Playground & Cafe is the place. Sit back and relax at the café while the grandchildren play. Open seven days a week from 9.30am.

Dunedin Public Libraries

Otago Museum

Sunflower Growing Competition: Come into the library over the holidays and start growing your very own sunflower! Register at any library between 28 September and 13 October.

Toitu Otago Settlers Museum

Sign up for Discovery Squad, every weekday during the holidays. Go around the world from Japan to the Wild West to the tropics – or even join the circus for a day! Contact 03474-7474 for bookings.

Birthday party for Josephine the Fairlie Locomotive! Bouncy castle, face painting and balloon animals, a birthday cake for Josephine, and a train trail through the museum. Sunday 27 October from 10am to 4pm.

One of the world’s great train trips and one of Dunedin’s top attractions. Daily departures.

Contact TGR on 03-477-4449 or reserve@ taieri.co.nz.

Visit Oamaru and Waitaki District Experience wildlife and nature, and discover the region’s heritage. Contact Oamaru i-SITE, 1 Thames Street, Oamaru or phone 03-4341656 for information.

Dunedin Public Art Gallery Gamer’s Delight: Experience old style arcade favourites such as Pacman, Space Invaders and Donkey Kong. Bring coin and be prepared to be challenged! From 28 September to 13 October, in association with the exhibition Among the Machines.

Taieri Gorge Railway

The Kitchen cooking classes

Moana Pool Join a week-long Swimsation swimming course to boost confidence and ability for pre-school and school-age children. From 7 to 11 October, one lesson per day for the whole

Creating independent and confident kids and young adults in kitchens around Dunedin.

Check out our birthday party options too on www.thekitchencookingclasses.co.nz.

By Rosanna Hill

Make the most of the holidays with these super fun holiday programmes and activities for kids.

Free dental care for under 18 years

“Children, community, whãnau and fun...learning for life” We proudly offer: • 100% registered teachers • Safe & educational environments • Excellent child/teacher ratios • 20 ECE hours

PHONE: 489 5960

week. To book phone 03-471-9659 or email swimsation@dcc.govt.nz.

Holiday Specials

Green Street Early Childhood Centre

We are a parent-governed not-for-profit community centre.

Dunedin Public Libraries challenge; grow the tallest sun-fun-flower in Dunedin!

Your dentists: Saleema Reeves, Victoria Liu

Ensure your child is enrolled

For stalls and information, email: fete@victorianoamaru.co.nz

11-13 Green Street Mosgiel www.greenstelc.co.nz Providing quality early childhood education for children 0-5 years

www.dunedindentists.co.nz E-mail: dentistryonmusselburgh@xtra.co.nz

03-455 0621

www.victorianoamaru.co.nz

TAP

facebook.com/Rasaschoolofdance

www.danz.org.nz/rasa.php www.familytimes.co.nz

11

parties

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

I really had parties sorted when our kids were little. We packed a mean party bag, and even nailed that tricky shade of blue for the “Thomas” cake. Give us a weepy, non joiner-inner and we’d have them passing the parcel like there was no tomorrow. We coped with vomiters, non-eaters, over-eaters and allergies. And we only had to call an ambulance that one time (silly boy shouldn’t have been jumping anyway).

Many kids worry that their party will “tank” or no one will show up, and parents don’t want to host a lame party. But neither do you want to go overboard.

Party tricks: For the under 10s, presentation is as important as the food itself - so decorate. It’s cheap and fun. Balloons, plates and cups at each place setting is a good start. You could add place cards, twinkle lights or named party bags if using.

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 sticks. Ice and decorate, wrap in cellophane with twirly ribbons and maybe a tiny toy and let each child select one from the “bouquet”

to take home. Set a specific time for food so they don’t drift back and forward eating just the treats. Plan to serve savoury food first – sausage rolls, homemade sushi and mini pizzas or quiche are firm favourites – small food appeals to kids and you are less likely to be tossing out loads of things with one bite out of them if the portions are small. Kids will expect some treats but you can include them as prizes for games if you prefer not to have them on the table. Alternate fruit with marshmallows on skewers, make popcorn, and make mini cupcakes or jellies for something sweet.

It’s a good idea to save birthday cake until just before leaving time as many kids prefer to take it home to enjoy after all the excitement.

Many party games also focus on food. We changed the famous “chocolate game” from rolling a six on the dice, putting on the 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

Laserforce ultimate family competition. 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.

Chipmunks Playland and Cafe Chipmunks Playland and Café is Dunedin’s number one stop for children’s entertainment, with a cafe and indoor playground for children aged from 0 to 11-years-old. Sweeping tube slides, ball pits, inflatable slide and an 8 cannon ball blaster keep everyone entertained for hours. For

pre-schoolers there’s a pirate ship with a slide into a ball pit.

Chipmunks is open seven days, supervises before and after school care including transport, has school holiday programmes, and is the perfect birthday party venue.

Let the fun begin.

Tell our advertiser you saw it in...

Online stockists of partyware & decorations for all occasions

Wide range of stylish products – from children’s themed party supplies to pretty, boutique items • New products arriving regularly from New Zealand and around the world Visit our online store today to browse and buy from our range.

www.pixiepartysupplies.co.nz

e h t r Fo e t a m i ult day! birth

11 Christie St, GREEN ISLAND

PH: 03-488 4448

• Birthday parties • Before school care • After school care • Fundraisers • Drop-off service • Holiday programmes • Private functions • Charlie’s Café

OPEN 7 DAYS

373 Princes Street Dunedin. Ph: 03 477 6762

www.combatzonepaintball.co.nz

Children's ! s e i t r a P y a d h t Bir Hosted Party Value for ! o m ney

3 party packages 1. Hosted Sports Party Your choice up to 2 sports ($10 per child) 2. Bouncy Castle Party Your choice of castle (from $130) 3.Bike Course Obstacle course for pushbikes ($15 + $2.50 per kid)

Plenty of space for a memorable birthday!

12

www.familytimes.co.nz

$10 per child

(60 mins)

or host yourself for $2.50 per hour

Catered Party

From $10 per child

+ $40 birthday party lounge hire.

Option to bring your own food.

Hassle Free Party!

Ph: 03-456 1200 | E-mail: sarah@edgarcentre.co.nz www.edgarcentre.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:

readers - and your children, to participate in the KiDSMARATHON programme and 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  The child obesity rate in New Zealand focused on families and their participation. children has increased from 8% in 2006/07, It’s very simple to start. Go online to www. to 10% in 2011/12 (in children aged 2 to kidsmarathonfoundation.co.nz/teachers/ 14-years). training-guide/ to read about the specific  A further 21% of children were details of the programme. Under the menu overweight (but not obese). bars you’ll find support materials, a training The obvious conclusion is that children who programme guide and a sheet you can print are consistently more active are likely to be off to keep track of your family’s progress. healthier adults. And we all know, people who The training guide is the core resource for the don’t exercise are at risk of developing high Rod Dixon KiDSMARATHON programme. blood pressure, osteoporosis, heart disease, In the guide you’ll find general knowledge, and other chronic illnesses. Sounds like a nutritional information, warm-up routines prescription to get moving — now! and of course a log book for kids and teachers The Family Times’ team is dedicated to to follow and complete. The objective is offering you simple, fun, free ways to help simple. Get up and get moving! your family start and retain exercise habits.

This programme is fun, inexpensive and As spring and summer are just around the fitness oriented to help you and your children corner, we want to challenge you - our avid accomplish a health goal together. Creating

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Why not 0800 787of797 atches – out of reach pick up the phone and call ans eitherwww.alcoholdrughelp.org.nz in a cabinet ● Alcohol Drug Abuse

challenging adolescent behaviour.

Parent Support Groups meet weekly with parents able to join anytime. Contact TOUGHLOVE on 03-337-9452, email toughloveusi@xtra.co.nz or check out www. toughlove.org.nz. ● Citizens Advice Bureau

ach or in a childthe relative support agency? Citizens Concerned about your own or someone Christchurch areaBureau - Te Pou Advice rea. else’s problems with alcohol or othercaring drugs?

Whakawhirinaki o Aotearoa You’ll find professional Christchurch area - Te Pou ed batteries away from Call the Alcohol Drug Helpline today for free, As we progress through the year, many Whakawhirinaki o Aotearoa hat elderly people may people ready to assist you. confidential, friendly professional advice. Phone:families are6158 dealing with increased financial 03-471 ample, make sure they As we progress through the year, many 0800 787 797 www.alcoholdrughelp.org.nz pressures. In some cases parents may decide Alcohol Drug Abuse Free confidential advice onincreased personal budgets. d batteries in an area families are dealing with financial to separate. If you separate, you’ll need to try ate from where they Concerned about your own or someone How to manageInyour options pressures. some money, cases parents may and decide to agree on your children’s day-to-day care ● Catholic Social Services ation. else’s problems with alcohol or other drugs? to separate.

If you separate, you’ll need to try plans for debt repayment. (a parenting agreement).

Youday-to-day can get a free Parenting andrelated family support programmes atteries on aFree surface out Call disability &the health information Alcohol Drug Helpline today for free, to agree on your children’s care counselling through thecan Family open to all, free of charge.

Usual office hours h. Immediately place confidential, friendly professional advice. (a parentingsession agreement).

You get aCourt free daily living aids and to help, if you can’t come to an with late on Tuesdays ‘till 6.30pm by out of their reach. Supplying counselling session through theagreement.

Family Court 0800 787night 797 www.alcoholdrughelp.org.nz ttery cover on devices incontinence If this doesn’t one oftoyou apply for appointment.products.

336 Cashel Street, P O Box to help, if you work, can’t come an can agreement.

Catholic Social Services atteries is secure so a order, involves going to for 4237, Christchurch.

Phone: 03-379 0012 Phone:Ifa parenting 0800-367 222which or 6166 this doesn’t work, one03-471 of you can apply 03-471 6152 0800-693 342programmes e it. Use duct tapePhone: if Parenting andorfamily support athe parenting order,and which involves going to a Family Court asking them to make For free information and advice.

Email:dis.dn@xtra.co.nz | www.disabilityinfo.co.nz open to all, free of charge. the Family Court and 0800-367-222 asking them to to make decision forus you. Call talka ● Christchurch ResettlementNot sure?

Ask ention immediately if Usual office hours with late night on Tuesdays decision for you. to our knowledgeable, caring team.

Services. ne has swallowed a but- ‘till 6.30pm by appointment.

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Phone: 03-379 0012 provided. Phone: 03-335 0311 Optimum Learning provides highly effective optimum Learning nk anything and do not solutions for anyone struggling with learning.

Christchurch Resettlement Optimum Learning provides highly effective Using the for Davis Correction® ● TOUGHLOVE Services. solutions anyone strugglingProgrammes, with learning. on about button Optimum Learning enables individuals Raising teenagers is difficult.

Whether just al product safety, Using the Davis Correction® Programmes, Free social services for people from you refugee ety section of to enhanceLearning their giftsenables and overcome the wantmigrant some help to deal withInterpreters a disrespectful Optimum individuals and backgrounds. are LA LECHE LEAGUE OFFERS: rs website www. challenges learning differences or defiant teenager, or more serious issues, to enhanceassociated their gifts with and overcome provided.

Phone: 03-335 0311 t.nz. the associated learning suchchallenges as dyslexia, dyspraxia,with ADD/ADHD, TOUGHLOVE can help. TOUGHLOVE’s aim • Mother-to-mother support ToUGHLoVE differences such as dyslexia, dyspraxia, maths, and reading/writing difficulties.

Melanie is to enable parents and their young people to • Telephone help Raising teenagers is difficult. you just• Trained breastfeeding counsellors ADD/ADHD, maths, and reading/writing Curry is a highly experienced teacher and rebuild their relationships.

TheWhether TOUGHLOVE want some help deal with a disrespectful difficulties. licensed Davis facilitator who is dedicated programme offerstoongoing support, education, • Regular meetings or teenager, or moresupport serious group issues, • Books and leaflets for sale Melanie Curry isyou a highly experienced teacher to empowering to achieve your goals. anddefiant techniques via structured TOUGHLOVE can help. TOUGHLOVE’s and licensed Davis facilitator who is dedicated “Dyslexia isn’t a big problem for me now. meetings to help parents and caregivers gain • Lending libraries aim is to enable parents and their young to empowering you to achieve your goals.

When I was doing the course suddenly things the skills and strategies to deal with a wide people to free, rebuildconfidential their relationships. The “Dyslexia isn’t a big problem for me now. isofa SUPERGRANS made sense me.”the (Feedback from a Davis® range problems associated with unacceptable TOUGHLOVE programme offers onWhen I was to doing course suddenly things and non-judgemental service.behaviour. Parent student) Visit www.optimumlearning.co.nz or challenging going support,adolescent education, and techniques made sense to me.” (Feedback from a Davis® share their life skills SUPERGRANS or contact Melanie Curry at melanie@ Support Groups meet weekly with parents via structured support group meetings to able student) with families in need.andContact optimumlearning.co.nz. to join anytime.

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SUPERGRANS and strategies to deal with a who wide range of contact Melanie Curry at melanie@ work on aproblems volunteer basis because associated with unacceptable or optimumlearning.co.nz. co.nz or check out www. toughlove.org.nz. ● Conductive Education

Dunedin Budget Advisory Service

The Edgar Centre is a great place for families to come and play some sport together. It’s open seven days. family activity time is all about scheduling it together and then following through with the activities. So, let us know how it goes.

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.

La Leche League

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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. Dunedin La Leche League 03-467-5599 or 03-476-1339.

SuperGrans are mature volunteers who offer one-on-one life and home skills mentoring to families and individuals in need of assistance.

They provide a caring, confidential, free, non-judgemental service that supports and encourages client independence by learning new ways to work and gaining the ability and confidence to cope with everyday problems.

Skills passed on include menu planning, budget shopping/cooking, knitting, sewing, mending, gardening and establishing household routines.

Phone 03-474-0582 for further information or email supergrans.dunedin@xtra.co.nz.

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0508 PHYSIO (749 746) or 03-471 7391 www.familytimes.co.nz

13

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).

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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 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 The law says you must:

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 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

•

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

From 1 November 2013 Until their 7th birthday

From 1 November 2013

From their 5th birthday until From their 7th birthday until Correctly secure your child their 8th birthday in an approved child restraint their 8th birthday if one is available in the vehicle (and if not, in any child restraint or safety belt that is available)

Nigel Latta’s: The Modern Family Survival Guide

Our registered child restraint technicians will assist you with choosing the most appropriate car seat for your child and with installing the car seat in your vehicle.

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As a driver you must make sure any child travelling in your vehicle is correctly secured.

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14

The lAw sAYs You musT:

unTil 31 oCTobeR 2013

From 1 November 2013

Correctly secure your child in an approved child restraint

Until their 5th birthday

until their 7th birthday

The lAw sAYs You musT:

unTil 31 oCTobeR 2013

From 1 November 2013

Correctly secure your child 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)

From their 5th birthday until their 8th birthday

From their 7th birthday until their 8th birthday

These changes will help reduce Your child restraint must be fitted preventable deaths and serious injuries correctly. For expert advice contact a to children travelling in vehicles. certified Child Restraint Technician via www.nzta.govt.nz/childrestraints

We have a range of infant capsules, child and booster seats for sale or hire.

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NEED A CAR SEAT?

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.

Phone Plunket Area Office: 03-474-0490 Plunket Line: 0800-933-922 24 HOURS www.plunket.org.nz

www.familytimes.co.nz NZTA CR FamilyTimes PRINT.indd 1

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.

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.

Junior Fiction 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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15

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

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!

for instance, you could ask “Is it an 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, streets, you might like to try car cricket. One one free bonus guess is permitted. person is “in” until they get either “run out” (by being passed by another car) or “caught Word Scramble out” (by someone seeing a Ford) or bowled (if To play Scramble, think of a five or six letter a motorcycle is seen). word, such as “punch,” and say the letters aloud in a random order, such as C-H-P-N-U. While that person is in they score a single run each time they see a car, two runs if they It’s fun to see how quickly–or long–it takes see a four-wheel-drive, a boundary if they for your opponent to guess your word. see a truck and a six for any vehicle carrying Spot a mini livestock.

Possible variations on car cricket are endless, To play this game, you get five points each and if the children are young you can use time you spot a mini (or choose a different colours rather than makes of car. It is usually type of car) while travelling. Points are accrued over any journey, but start afresh played as two teams so that individual players once you’ve achieved your destination. who may be a bit weaker with their maths are The sighting has to be confirmed by supported by stronger team members. another person in the car, and incorrect or Not a Word unconfirmed sightings mean you have to Not a word must pass your lips as you take turns deduct that number of points off your score. telling a story using facial expression, gestures Car cricket and self-made sound effects. Choose a wellknown, easy story such as Snow White. The first If you’re travelling long distance off the city

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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