Family Times - Summer 2018

We’ve Got Parenting Covered

Su m mer I s s u e 2 018

DECEMBER 12 /ParamountNZ

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IN 2D & 3D CINEMAS NATIONWIDE

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FIVE tips for mindful use of screen time

Profound impact of the bilingual brain

10 Questions

Spotlight on actor Rhys Darby /ParamountNZ

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Akaroa Harbour Nature Cruises

Quail Island Adventures

When did you last see a dolphin?

Hi! CAll todAy

Grab some family fun and inspiration these holidays!

Reaquaint yourself with these delightful Hector’s Dolphins in beautiful Akaroa Harbour.

‘Under 5’s

0800 436 574

free

Or book online at www.blackcat.co.nz

on all trips, all year!

CLOSER TO HOME – Get the kids into nature and head to Quail Island! A great day trip to a real island with a fascinating history, in the heart of Lyttelton Harbour.

Just a 15 minute ferry ride from Lyttelton.

Book the DOC hut to stay overnight (via DOC website)

CRUISES LYTTELTON & AKAROA

The magic of

Wildlife With the Amazing

Elgregoe!

Twice daily from 27 December to 27 January.

60 Hussey Road, Northwood, Christchurch.

Go to www.willowbank.co.nz for details.

Willowbank 2

Summer / 2018

editor’s note

Welcome Like any parent, I get asked dozens of questions each day, and because I’m not Suri, Google, or my husband, I don’t have all the answers.

Why do we talk? Why are there bugs in this life? Mum, did you see that man with a baby in his belly? Why do we laugh? Why do I need a tongue? Why do we read books? Why can’t you cut my toast like Granny does? Mummy, can you also be my sister?

All actual questions asked just today by my four-year-old, Austen, and all pretty straight forward – or easy enough to create an answer for. However, it's the following one that I struggled with, and coincidentally is mentioned several times in this issue of Family Times: Can I please watch another music video?

What would you say?

As a kid I remember my parents getting rid of our television every now and again. For what reason, I have no idea. It probably only sent us to our friends houses to watch it. And when we did have a telly, they wouldn’t let us watch Neighbours, so every night, we’d sneak into our nana’s room to watch it on her tiny black and white.

Maybe parents have always tried to limit television viewing, but it’s about finding a happy medium rather than cutting off all access to it – which can lead to children watching in secret, like we did as kids.

A N I L E B M THU

cted Written and Dire n

by Emma Cusdi

I like what Victoria Tait says in her article Screen time: What you need to know (page 20). In her ‘five tips for mindful screen time’ she says, it’s about knowing what your children are watching, being present and being purposeful.

For our family, Austen loves music videos, and making up his own dance moves to said videos. We know what he’s watching, and we’re involved with what he does. He also enjoys watching some programmes, and he talks about what happened in the storyline and asks questions.

But, he doesn’t need screen time. He’s not searching out the remote or sneaking onto the iPad, and that’s because we’re not super strict about it, therefore he doesn’t need his screen “fix”, but he does enjoy it.

We are surrounded by screens, and as Rhys Darby says on page 46, the worst parenting advice he’s heard is to take technology away from kids. “It’s part of their life and modern life in general,” he says.

“It’s up to all of us to embrace change and understand technology…

Children are at the forefront of this.”

We hope you enjoy our summer issue, as much as we enjoyed putting it together for you!

Kineta

Kineta Booker / Editor kineta@27publishers.co.nz

@familytimesnewzealand

Santa’s

Coming to Town!

Santa will be in the Centre every Saturday and Sunday in December from 12 – 2pm giving out FREE Christmas sticker books and lollies!’

16 - 26 JANUARY TICKETS ONLY $10 PRINCIPAL

SPONSOR

CORE FUNDER

SUPPORTED BY

BY ARRANGEMENT WITH

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Summer / 2018

3

Contents

38

FEATURES

4

REGULARS

8

Being a high-value parent​​​

37

Angling for adventure

9

Diet and your child’s smile

38

Garden to table

3

14

Christmas gift guide

38

​Resene rock out

10

Books and Beats​

16

Born at home

39

On holiday: Wellington

12

We love​​

17

The simplicity of cloth nappies

41

​Barbecue bliss

24

What’s On Christchurch

18

​Messy fun

46

​In the spotlight: Rhys Darby

26

What’s On Dunedin​​

19

Early learning teachers change lives

42

Fun zone

20

​Screen time: what you need to know

43

Giveaways

21

Why home school? Why not?

22

The bilingual brain

28

Staying safe online

30

Raising animal lovers

31

Jobs for little kids

36

Adventures in nature

Summer / 2018

Health and Wellbeing 32

One Mother to Another

33

​Protect skin for life

35

Time out for mums

40

​Encouraging kids to eat healthy foods

PLUS, make sure you LIKE our Facebook page to stay up-to-date with happenings and advice, and for plenty of chances to WIN! familytimesnewzealand

​Welcome note​​

46

22

contents

more than Need your fix of Family Times to do is four times a year? All you need .co.nz jump online... familytimes r. and sign up to our e-newslette

PUBLISHER Twenty Seven Publishers Ltd Lisa Phelan lisa@27publishers.co.nz 021 782 228 EDITOR Kineta Booker kineta@27publishers.co.nz SUB-EDITOR Josie Stanford josie@27publishers.co.nz DESIGN & Production Rachel Brodrick designer@27publishers.co.nz ADVERTISING Shelley Eccleton shelley@27publishers.co.nz 027 631 3288

General Enquiries hello@27publishers.co.nz CONTRIBUTORS Bevan James Eyles, Christina Buckland, Crissi Blair, Dave Ramsey, Donna Stacey, Elizabeth van Berkel, Grahame Dutton, Hannah Porter, Jason Shon Bennett, Josh van Berkel, Juliet Calder, Karla Sanders, Kate Barber, Kelly Eden-Calcott, Michela Homer, Nathan Wallis, Rachel Cruze, Rachel McFedries, Rhys Darby, Suzy Cato, Victoria Tait PRINT Blueprint, Christchurch

Family Times is published quarterly and is a registered trademark. While all attempts have been made to verify information provided in this publication, the publisher assumes no responsibility for errors, omissions or contrary interpretations of the subject matter contained herein. The reader of this publication assumes all responsibility for the use of these materials and information. Any perceived slight of any person or organisation is completely unintentional. Family Times asserts copyright on all material published within Family Times and none of it shall be reproduced, wholly or in part, without the prior written consent of this publisher. Family Times reserves the right to edit or abridge all letters or other material, whether solicited or otherwise, prior to publication.

familytimesnewzealand

@familytimesnewzealand

Help is at hand Sometimes you need some information or an answer to a curly question – all you need to do is pick up the phone and ask for help.

Christchurch Resettlement Services

After Hours Counselling Services

Free social services for people from refugee and migrant backgrounds. Interpreters are provided.

Providing counselling and relationship services.

03 335 0311 crs.org.nz

Anglican Family Care Providing social services to Otago children and families in need.

0800 FAM CARE anglicanfamilycare.org.nz

SIDS and Kids

027 694 5275 afterhours-counselling services.co.nz

Canterbury Speakeasy A stuttering support group who meet at the University Speech Disorders Unit every 1st and 3rd Thursday of the month at 7.30pm

03 338 8628

Parent Helpline

Dedicated to saving the lives of babies and children; and supporting bereaved families.

For all parenting issues, from those everyday situations to the most serious issue of child abuse.

0800 164 455 sidsandkids.org.nz

0800 568 856 parenthelp.org.nz

ISSN NO. 2324-450X

Summer / 2018

5

Your Christmas Event Guide Bring all the family along to visit Ballantynes throughout December to see our nine iconic Christmas themed windows. We have an interactive window activity for kids of all ages.

See Customer Services or our Children’s department on the lower ground floor for further details.

REPEAT PATTERN SWATCH:

Christmas

Now Open

shop

Santa’s Grotto

m

NOW OPEN

Santa is instore from opening until 5pm everyday.

Please collect your queue number from Santa’s Grotto, located on the first floor next to the Atrium, and Santa will meet you in numerical order.

CW 9993612 The Merry Mice of Dunstable House $19

BALLANT YNE S CHILDRE N’S CHRIST MAS BOOK

600mm

PANTONE 289C

PANTONE 200C

SA NTA’S GROTTO I S NOW OPEN , FR OM OPEN IN G TO 5 P M EVERYDAY

PANTONE WHITE

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The team at Ballantynes has created a children’s Christmas book that tells the story of this year’s Christmas windows. Every primary school in Christchurch and Timaru has been gifted the story for their school library but should you want a little piece of the windows to take home yourself, visit the Christmas Shop on the first floor or the Children’s department on lower ground floor to purchase your own copy.

W E DN ES DAY 19 TH D EC EM B ER

For more event information and reservations, visit ballantynes.co.nz or call Customer Services on 0800 656 400.

Bring the kids to hear Marilyn tell the story of The Merry Mice of Dunstable House from 11am12pm. After this the kids can learn to write the best Dear Santa letters with Michelle, 12-1pm.

F RO M SAT U RDAY 1ST D EC EM B ER

24 DAYS OF GIFTING

E XP E R IE NCE THE M AG IC OF THE CHR I STM AS SHO P LO CATE D ON TH E FIRST FLOOR BE TWE E N THE CONT E MPORA RY LOUNGE A ND TH E ATRIUM

SHOP &

WIN!

Spend over $50 instore and online from 1st December - 24th December to go into the draw to WIN our grand prize, valued at over $20,000 featuring your favourite designer brands.

6

Summer / 2018

CW 3583664 Petit Collage, Pack Your Bags! Board Game $42

CW 3583652 Ridley’s, Draw A Blank Game $55 ge, Gift 8 Petit Colla CW 358364 her $45 et Te & k Set Soft Boo

g e, tit Colla 3666 Pe 0 3 $ CW 3 5 8 me m I? Ga What A

CW 3583646 Petit Collage, Peek-A-Boo House Stacking $55

CW 3583645 Petit Collage, Magic Drawing Board $59

CW 3583653 Ridley’s, Tin Cans Alley $42 CW 3583647 Petit Collage, Modern Elephant Wood Xylophone $35

WHERE DESIGN Tools for fun and learning.

CW 3 5

83657 R a Row idley’s, Fou r in Game $27

CW 3583663 Petit Collage, Carnival Playset Wood Ferris $85

CW 3583654 Ridley’s, Hoopla $42

CW 3583655 Ridley’s, Hook A Duck $42 CW 9993402 Ballantynes Christmas Bear $29

CW 35 Sma 83651 R sh G idley ame ’s, A voca $19 do

CW 3583359 SunnyLife, Fishing Game Under the Sea $23

MEETS PLAY CW 3583394 SunnyLife, Inflatable Sprinkler Elephant $48

CW 3581968 Petit Collage, Alligator Wood Shape Sorter $59

P 2359977 The Cookie Lab, Summer Selection, 3 pack $10

Summer / 2018

7

PO S ITI V E PARENTING

Being a

high-value parent

Whether you’re doing it on your own or together, these three ‘high value’ behaviours will help you be the best parent you can be, says Kelly Eden-Calcott.

A

s a newly solo parent, I’ve been thinking about co-parenting and how to make the most of shared care. Co-parenting is one of those tricky things that you never plan on doing. But now that we’re here, I want to get it right for my kids.

+ Kindness: We have a favourite saying in our family, “if you can choose, then choose to be kind.”

My parents were divorced and did an amazing job of respectful co-parenting. They were generous in their flexibility with each other, cooperative and kind. Perhaps that’s the key to successful co-parenting? A podcast I listen to, The Art of Charm, talks about this. It argues that cooperation, kindness and generosity are the three qualities that make you a ‘high value’ person. Someone who is great to have around. A great friend, work mate, and partner.

Avoid low-value parenting

Being a high-value person

High-value people attract other high-value people, because who doesn’t want to have cooperative, kind and generous friends? And I’m not necessarily talking about generosity with money here. When you generously give people the attention, acceptance and approval that we all need and desire that’s even more valuable than gifts or money.

How often do you get someone’s undivided attention nowadays? We are competing with so many things and undivided attention isn’t an easy thing to give. But if you are kind and generous with your time, you’ll find it’s greatly appreciated and other people will act the same towards you.

Being a high-value parent

Use the three qualities of a high-value person in your parenting: + Cooperation: Collaborate with your kids and their other parent whenever you can. Encourage teamwork.

8

Summer / 2018

+ Generosity: Give your kids the three A’s: Acceptance, Attention and Approval.

To me, the alternative to high-value parenting (and coparenting) doesn’t sit well. Low-value parenting seems like the best way to end up spiralling down into a pretty negative place. Low value behaviours – like blaming, arguing, or competition – can be tempting at times but are generally short-term fixes to problems.

Blaming is tricky to avoid. When things go wrong – the kids are being hard work, or you’re running late for their dance class again – it’s so easy to blame the other parent or our children.

Being argumentative or combative is also a tough one, especially in the co-parenting situation where, obviously, things haven’t been going well between you and the other parent.

Other low value behaviours include being passive, begging, people pleasing and being competitive.

Competitive parenting and comparing ourselves to other parents, as easy as it is to do, just puts us on the slippery slope to depression.

So, let’s all do our best to drop those low-value behaviours that hold us back and keep us miserable! Let’s aim to be cooperative, kind and generous. To be those high-value people and high-value parents our kids need – whether we are parenting together, alone or co-parenting!

To find out more about being a high-value person visit theartofcharm.com

PO S ITI V E PARENTING

Diet and your

child s smile

Diet has more influence than you might think on oral health, especially in the formative years.

Grahame Dutton of Duxton Dental explains.

M

any parents don’t realise just how much a healthy diet can help the development of a child’s jawline and teeth. I have recently read The Dental Diet by Australian Dentist, Dr Steven Lin. Science shows that our bodies are an intricate reflection of three things: our ancestral health, the microbes that live within us and our genes. The study of epigenetics has recently revealed that our reflection in the mirror can be influenced, more than we used to think, by our diet.

Every piece of food we eat sends a message to our ever-listening genes and this sparks a chain reaction that starts in our mouth and travels throughout our bodies.

One of the most important things that has been discovered about this fascinating process is how important a good balance of fat soluble vitamins (A, D and K2), calcium and pre- and pro-biotics is to be in tip-top shape.

You do have control over the health and wellbeing of your family's mouth, teeth and entire body and that power lies in what you feed them.

Dr Lin explains that the old view that chronic diseases are mainly genetic is fast becoming disproven. His book introduces the epigenetic model of crooked teeth which illustrates that if we feed our kids the right foods the skeletal system will develop in the way in which it was intended.

Few people know how their jawbone grows or why their teeth form the way they do. But just as you can eat certain foods to make your heart or hair healthier, you can also eat certain foods that will make your teeth and gums healthier.

Parents are excited to hear that there are things they can do to set up their children's mouths for healthy growth and development. It isn't all predetermined by their genetics.

When we have a healthy mouth, the rest of the body will follow. Food which has the power to balance our oral and gut microbiomes is our mouth's best medicine. These influential foods are not rare or expensive. It’s simple healthy eating.

Eat as much fresh vegetables and legumes as you like, have moderate amounts of dairy, meat, fish, eggs, good fats and oils, nuts, seeds and spices, and limited amounts of grains and fruits.

So, essentially, go for a diet that is low carb, low sugar and low in processed foods. Supplement if necessary with appropriate amounts of fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E and K. That’s my recipe for a healthy and beautiful smile.

03 348 5488 / duxtondental.co.nz

Six ways to help your child’s smile 1. Develop nutritious eating habits.

Food makes all the difference.

2. If your child snores, grinds their teeth, or mouth breathes have an orthodontic check at age seven.

3. Brush their teeth with fluoride toothpaste twice daily. It doesn't take long.

4. Get regular dental check-ups.

5. Create a beautiful smile by organising your child's orthodontic assessment.

6. Protect those pearly white adult teeth with mouth guards, fissure sealants and fluoride – they only get one set.

FREE ORTHODONTIC CONSULT COME SEE US SO WE CAN START DEVELOPING YOUR CHILD'S BEAUTIFUL SMILE “The aligners are wonderful and have helped me so much.

I wonder what I would have looked like in the future if I hadn’t had them.

Everyone at Duxton Dental is so friendly and it’s a fun place to visit.”

Orthodontic treatment is performed by Grahame Dutton who is a General Dentist with a special interest in Orthodontics.

Summer / 2018

9

Books and beats

Books

Book lovers unite! CRISSI BLAIR shares her top picks for different ages and interests.

Inside the Villains

The Top Secret Undercover Notes of Buttons McGinty

By Clotilde Perrin

Gecko Press $34.99 This is a giant-sized book, featuring three fairytale characters: the wolf, the giant and the witch. Each features on a flap of the book which opens out to reveal layers – like the wolf ’s brilliant ideas and belly full of victims. There’s a dramatic description and fold-out pages with more information and a story for each. Magnificently illustrated and a clever concept.

Suitable for ages 4-10

By Rhys Darby

Scholastic $16 Buttons McGinty’s journal reflects the scattered thinking of the classic 12-year-old boy that he is. Leaping from one problem to the next as he heads to the strange RIEFGLUM boarding school with its ‘boy’s own’ characters. It’s a dramatic race from one dicey situation to the next as they discover a secret science lab, a monster, and clues to the whereabouts of McGinty’s missing parents.

With drawings and maps, margin notes and much hilarity.

Suitable for ages 8-11

TOP PICK Kia Ora: You Can be a Kiwi Too Written and sung by June Pitman-Hayes Illustrated by Minky Stapleton Māori lyrics by Ngaere Roberts

Scholastic $20 An illustrated waiata (song), with accompanying CD, all about being a Kiwi and welcoming others to our land. We celebrate many cultures, enjoy the beach and bush, and then sing the song again in Māori.

Illustrations travel from day to night, city to country. A real celebration.

Guinness World Records 2019 Guinness World Records Ltd $40 Guinness World Records, published annually since 1955, has a new focus for 2019 – the maker movement. There are new categories and many newly broken records, with a special feature on Making History, with examples built from LEGO®. Check out the ‘Do try this at home’ sections, and behind-the-scenes sneak peeks.

Something to keep readers interested for hours.

Suitable for ages 7+

Suitable for ages 3-8

Whose Home is This?

By Gillian Candler Illustrated by Fraser Williamson

Puffin the Architect

By Kimberly Andrews

Puffin $20

Potton & Burton Pb $14.99 Hb $24.99

Puffin the architect has her toughest job yet – designing a home for her own family.

The three pufflings don’t want a home like anyone else’s though they are all full of clever drawers, hidey-holes, pulleys and fold-away furniture. Told in rhyme, building on the pattern for each home, and providing lots of detail in the illustrations to match.

Explore many different New Zealand habitats, the turn of each page revealing which native animal lives there. From Pūpū rangi, the giant snail to Kekeno, the fur seal. Simple explanations of how they live, make their homes and stay safe, matched with clear pictures, capturing the colours of our environment and developing observation skills in young readers.

Suitable for ages 4-10

Suitable for ages 4-10

Win! 10 Summer / 2018

We have one copy each of Kia Ora: You can be a Kiwi too, Guinness World Records 2019, Totally Awesome Kids Album, We've Got A Boat, Bite Me, Fishing for Stars, Drizzly Bear and Wanna be like a Kiwi to giveaway!

To enter, visit familytimes.co.nz.

Music for little ears By

Suzy Cato

Totally Awesome Kids Album Compilation Album – presented by Suzy Cato suzy.co.nz A fabulous collection of songs that showcases our best children’s musicians and entertainers including Anika Moa, Moe & Friends, Craig Smith (aka “Mr Wonky Donkey”) and two brand new tracks by Suzy Cato.

We’ve Got a Boat (Book & CD) Jay Laga’aia and Donovan Bixley scholastic.co.nz A book for Kiwi families, boaties and appreciators of good old Kiwi ingenuity. Includes photos and information on the first Team New Zealand Cup victory.

Bite Me FleaBITE fleabite.co.nz The fourth album from fleaBITE, Bite Me is bursting with 11 juicy new songs to sink your fangs into and is the perfect mix of entertainment and originality for young Kiwis.

Fishing for Stars Anna van Riel annavanriel.com Award-winning New Zealander, Anna van Riel, presents her second children's album Fishing For Stars. Rich in variety and humour, and ready in time for Christmas; you'll want this for the car.

Drizzly Bear Craig Smith craigsmith.co.nz Mr Wonky Donkey does it again! This is a fun and interactive tale that asks "How can a bear fall asleep when there's a hole in the roof and it's raining?"

Wanna Be Like a Kiwi Ahjay Stelino ahjaystelino.com Wanna Be Like a Kiwi is a uniquely New Zealand collection of songs!

Through music the bird celebrates being different and investigates change, local currency and our native owl.

LIFE IS

CO-ED Kelly McBride Head of Learning Enrichment, Preparatory School

Summer / 2018

11

we love...

Things we’re

buzzing about Santa has arrived at Northlands!

Look for Santa in his new location (near Muffin Break) and when you visit, receive a free book (while stocks last).

Created by the team at Ballantynes • Illustrated by Jacqueline East

Ballantynes children’s Christmas book The Merry Mice of Dunstable House tells the story of this year’s Ballantynes Christmas windows, written by the team at Ballantynes. You can pick up this book when you visit the Christmas Shop on the first floor or the children’s department. ballantynes.co.nz

northlands.co.nz

Holistic Music Classes

Specialising in music tuition for children of all ages, Christchurch Music Academy offers an innovative approach to music education based on a unique *listen-sing-play-read-write* philosophy which accelerates learning. chchmusicacademy.co.nz Search for Santa

Totally portable fruit snack

Made from 100 per cent fruit, Annies Fruit Bars are perfect to pack for family picnics or trips to the beach. Annies Fruit Bars make a great graband-go snack for all those summer outings. annies.co.nz

Find the hidden toy Santas in Canterbury Museum’s galleries and you could win a prize.

The Great Museum Santa Search is a Christmas family favourite, is free to do, and runs from 1 December until 6 January. canterburymuseum.com/whats-on

Wow your tastebuds

Delicious Mexican food

Sister Kong’s Hong Kong Bao Burger combines a Taiwanese steamed bao bun with a burger – a tasty reinvention! And now the whole menu is available with UberEats!

The whole family will enjoy Mexico’s seasonal dishes inspired by traditional street food, and kids under 12 eat for free on Sundays! Viva la familia! mexico.net.nz

sisterkong.co.nz

Hats on! Tea poured!

Silly faces ready!

You're invited to the best tea party in town – with the biggest tricks, the largest characters and the catchiest tunes.

The Isaac Theatre Royal hosts a tea party with a twist, The Mad Hatter's Tea Party, 27–29 December. isaactheatreroyal.co.nz

12 Summer / 2018

New 3-Piece Bento Box

NEW Stuck On You 3-Piece Bento Boxes. They are superior in design and performance to any model on the market today, and a breeze to clean! stuckonyou.nz

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Moments and milestones make memories And since 1972, we’ve cherished moments and celebrated the milestones of each baby, toddler and preschooler entrusted to us.

That’s because we provide more than full and part time care and education – we provide a Kindercare family.

Fostering creativity r and wonde

Inspiring joy and love

Nurturing curiosity and enquiry Growing grit

Pop in and experie nce the Kin dercare differen ce.

www.kindercare.co.nz Summer / 2018

13

CHRI S T M A S GI F T G U I D E

Love local

Must-haves for the little (and big) people in our lives

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: Ruby the Rabbit Felt Mask by Small & Loud smallandloud.felt.co.nz / Handcrafted Christmas Elves by Zealous Design zealous.felt.co.nz / The Little Bit of Everything Gift Pack by Wilderling Baby Creations wilderling.felt.co.nz / Embellished Dress Up Crowns by Minka minka.felt.co.nz / Olive & Emmeline Wall Decals by StickyTiki and Katherine Quinn stickytiki.felt.co.nz Happy Place Mug in Gold by Toodles Noodles tootsnoots.felt.co.nz / Daring Deer Handprinted Santa Sack by Sandra Waine sandrawaine.felt.co.nz / Wool and Linen Fox Cushion by The Felted Room feltedroom.felt.co.nz

14 Summer / 2018

2019 Open Day 22 March / 11am-4pm Limited places available 2020

Year 7-13, Day and Boarding School Summer / 2018

15

Bum p t o Bu n d l e

Born at home I

f you’d asked me six years ago about home birthing then I would have laughed... no way! Isn’t that something that only hippies do? Yet here I am now, a proud mum of three, two of them having being born at home. This makes me part of the four per cent of mothers in New Zealand who homebirth.

After the straightforward hospital birth of our first son in 2012, planning to have our subsequent children at home was an easy choice for us. I liked the fact that I wouldn’t have to travel to the hospital during labour, I liked having autonomy and control in my birthing choices, and, most of all, I liked the thought of being in my own bed after giving birth!

There are a lot of positives about having your baby in the comfort of your own surroundings, says Rachel McFedries. visualisation, putting up positive affirmations, and reading other women’s home birthing stories. These were all really important ways for me to train my brain into knowing that I could do this; I could deliver my baby at home!

Throughout my pregnancy, my midwife was a reassuring calming presence who was full of confidence, and I also drew support from the Home Birth Aotearoa Facebook group.

The midwifery system that we have here in NZ supports women to be empowered in their birthing choices. This means that if you choose to, home can be the place you have your baby. It’s a wonderful thing to have choice like that. Choosing a midwife who is confident and happy to support your choice to homebirth is absolutely paramount in this journey.

It’s important to surround yourself with positivity when you’re preparing for a home birth, yet be grounded and open to the fact that you may have to be transferred to hospital. I had to be intentional about not taking on board any birthing horror stories that people shared with me. Also, in order to protect myself, if people would ask where baby was being born I would use my standard answer of “we’re planning on birthing at home but we’re open to transferring if we need to.” People generally say “oh, you’re brave” or just politely nod and change the topic.

Preparation for a home birth is as much mental as it is practical.

The practical aspects (such as gathering a ‘birth kit’ together of towels, a container for the placenta, plastic bags, and making a birth mat, a mat made from a duvet, newspaper, and a waterproof backing) are relatively straightforward. For me, ticking those items off my list played a big part in getting my mindset ready for homebirth. The rest of my mental preparation involved using

All in all, I don’t think of myself as being particularly brave to have given birth at home. I had a lot of support, and I was able to surround myself with all of my familiar items and trusted people in my own home, allowing the birthing process to progress uninterrupted. Giving birth at home was the best choice for us, and I don’t particularly think I’m a ‘hippy’, but rather a happy home birthing mumma.

16 Summer / 2018

Ten Tiny Toes

The simplicity of

cloth nappies

Mother of two, Hannah Porter , looks at the advantages of ditching the disposables and opting for cloth nappies.

W

hen I had my first son we started using disposable nappies. They were brilliant, easy and I could grab a box at the supermarket.

Like many families, however, I had a budget for my weekly groceries. That box of nappies was costing me about a quarter of the budget.

Cloth nappies were something we were keen on. We’re environmentally minded as a family anyway (I mean, we have a compost bin and reusable grocery bags), but the whole concept was really overwhelming. I had no idea about the differences between all the various choices. We stuck to one type (pocket nappies) and these days, cloth nappies are second nature to us as a family. So, let me break it down for you and remove some of that overwhelm.

Reusable cloth nappies have made a huge comeback for a number of reasons, but the two primary reasons people choose cloth are because they save you money, and they’re better for the environment. As a country, we send approximately 600 million nappies to landfill every single year. That is huge, and unnecessary. If every New Zealand baby used just one cloth nappy a day, we would be saving approximately one million disposable nappies from going to landfill every single week. In a time when we are so overwhelmed with rubbish and plastic, this small thing could make a huge difference.

And, at a time when many families are struggling to make ends meet, cloth nappies can save a significant amount of money. From the time a baby is born, until they are fully toilet trained, they will go through between $3000 and $4000 worth of disposable nappies. Cloth nappies retail from about $15 and a full-time stash would likely be around 20 to 25 nappies costing you a maximum of $400. That’s 10 per cent of the cost of disposables.

I’m not going to deny that it leads to more washing, but the process of washing a nappy isn’t anywhere near as complicated as it can seem. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions or work out your own system. I like to keep it as simple as possible. Number twos go in the toilet, then nappies go into an empty bucket. No water, no bleach, nothing. When you’re ready to wash, throw them in the machine with laundry powder on a normal cycle and hang them outside to dry (sunlight is a natural bleach). Yes, if they’re extra dirty you might want to do a pre-wash. Yes, you can buy special detergents, or wash them on a certain cycle, but you don’t have to. Don’t overcomplicate this because, let’s be honest, we have enough washing to do as it is!

Hannah Porter is the mother of two boys, and is the owner of Bear & Moo, a Hamilton-based company making reusable products for families simple and affordable. bearandmoo.co.nz

Nervous about taking the leap? I highly recommend checking out the Raising Ziggy – Cloth Nappy Pay It Forward group on Facebook where you can get yourself three reusable cloth nappies for just the cost of postage to give them a go. Once you realise just how easy it is, you won’t go back!

Summer / 2018

17

little wonders

Messy fun A

lthough your child will get messy, it’s well worth the effort of the clean-up because play in this way sees a child’s imagination soar, and allows them to express themselves in a creative way.

In New Shoots’ Recipes for Messy Play book, there are 40 fun sensory experiences for young learners, and the book explains that “the value of messy play is in the doing, not in the producing of an end product.”

Here’s some recipes to try:

KINETIC SAND INGREDIENTS 2 cups baking soda

Picking up handfuls of goo that squelch between their fingers, or walking through mud with bare feet that makes them giggle and smile are two beautifully messy things for little ones to do which are not only fun but also a great way to learn.

FOAM ERUPTIONS This is a great science experiment with ‘wow factor’. The baking soda reacts with the lemon juice/citric acid releasing carbondioxide as a by-product. The bubbly gas released produces super foam from the hand soap.

INGREDIENTS ¼ cup clear liquid hand soap ¾ cup warm water 2 tbsp baking soda 2 tbsp citric acid, or lemon juice (try using both and experimenting to see what works best) Food colouring METHOD

Stir the mixture with a spoon until a sandy/ doughy substance forms. Keep adding baking powder if the mixture seems too wet.

Set out small containers in a deep basin or water trough. Add clear hand soap and warm water to each container and invite the children to mix to create soapy water. Add a few drops of food colouring to each one. Invite children to add spoonfuls of baking soda to each bowl of soapy water and mix it in – it should become gooey. The children can then add spoonfuls of citric acid (or lemon juice). As soon as the citric acid/lemon juice hits the baking soda/soapy water combination, it will create a very light, airy, fluffy foam.

Kneed the mixture until it feels sandy and dough-like but not wet. Continue to add more baking powder at this point to make it fluffy.

Set out small spoons or sticks for mixing. The more the children mix in the citric acid, the lighter, fluffier and bigger foam they’ll get!

This is a great recipe to prepare in advance and you can store your mixture in a plastic container after you finish playing with it.

Tip out all of the containers into a large container – get stuck in with hands and mix for some extra foamy fun!

Thanks to Tracey Came from New Shoots Tauranga

Thanks to Silo Park Playcentre

1 cup baking powder 1 cup dishwashing liquid METHOD Mix together baking soda, baking powder and dishwashing liquid in a large bowl.

18 Summer / 2018

Win! We have FIVE copies of Recipes for Messy Play to give away!

To enter, visit familytimes.co.nz.

The fun and inspiring book Recipes for Messy Play features original recipes created in the 1970’s Playcentres, alongside new ideas currently used at New Shoots Children’s Centres.

The book takes a modern and environmentally-friendly approach to messy play that helps children expand and develop their understanding of the world – and is easy to use for parents, children and teachers alike!

New Shoots Publishing $19.99 curiate.co.nz

little wonders

Early Learning Teachers

change lives

Early Learning Centres can be overlooked as little more than a baby-sitting service, yet it’s an important opportunity to give your child the best possible start and prepare them for school. By Michela Homer, BestStart.

P

arents or whānau looking for early childhood care can be forgiven for being confused. The terms daycare and childcare can be misleading because they could be mistaken to mean that centres and their teachers simply babysit or entertain children.

Adding to this is a perception that children are just playing in their early childhood centres. Play is just play, right? Children are entertaining themselves and having fun – right?

In fact, although the above is true, early childhood education is so, so much more! Early childhood trained teachers have three-year degrees, and all teachers work within the world-renowned early childhood curriculum, Te Whāriki.

There’s a huge amount of planning that goes into every day at an early learning service. Teachers are masters of setting up environments that challenge and grow children’s physical abilities, vocabularies, curiosity and social interactions. They prompt, ask open-ended questions and follow children’s interests to extend their understanding of the world around them. They follow every aspect of a child’s physical and emotional wellbeing.

But there’s still the impression that children just ‘play’ at early childhood – that the real learning starts at school. Research tells us that from birth to the age of seven, children’s brains are hard-wired to learn through play. Children who have the best outcomes as adults are those that have had the most opportunities to learn this way.

In the early years, children are sorting through real-life situations that they experience through play – and this early learning can

form the foundation of their life-long patterns. They are busy learning how to form relationships, how to problem-solve, the excitement of curiosity, how good it feels to do exercise, how to negotiate, take turns, learn resilience, take safe risks, establish healthy eating habits and much, much more.

Trained teachers know and understand your child’s physical, emotional and mental development and they have the skills to extend their learning. They understand how to use language and be responsive to your young child’s verbal and non-verbal speech.

They provide activities to keep children amused, stimulated, delighted and inspired to learn. They are sensitive to your child’s needs and signals as they know that interactions form the basis of strong brain learning foundations.

The skills that older children learn at early learning centres enable them to start school feeling confident and able to cope in a classroom and be excited lifelong learners.

Early childhood teachers are skilled in supporting and extending children in this important first stage of their learning journey. A teacher who encourages, suggests, plays, and leads with passion and kindness can make a lasting impression on a child’s life. For all these reasons and more, we have huge respect for early childhood teachers as vital figures in children’s learning journeys in early learning centres. best-start.org

Summer / 2018

19

little wonders

Screen time:

What you need to know We have long been advised to limit TV and device use for preschoolers. New research, however, suggests it’s the nature of screen time rather than the amount that matters.

By Victoria Tait.

W

e have heard time and again about the potential ramifications screens can have on children as they develop. Even at a very young age, the amount of screen time children crave is accelerating, with the average time 0-8-year-olds spend in front of a screen tripling in recent years from 15 minutes up to 48 minutes per day.

Until a few years ago, parenting advice centred around limiting screen time for children to two hours per day to avoid detrimental effects, but new research now indicates that it’s the nature of the content they’re watching that has a greater effect upon their development.

Santa

Yes, Santa will arrive at Avonhead Shopping Centre on Saturday 8th December at 10am!

Come and meet him in his magical Santa Grotto Kitchen and have your photo taken by the friendly Santa Magic team

8 - 24 December 10am - 4pm daily th

Range of photo packages available, visit avonhead.co.nz for prices and details.

Gift Wrapping Cnr Withells Rd and Merrin St Avonhead

20 Summer / 2018

1. Know what your children are watching by being involved, which will also help them to connect on-screen content with real life. This, in turn, can help build language and cognitive skills, such as attention, memory and thinking. Shared-screen time also avoids the disadvantages of solitary viewing.

2. Curate children’s screen activities by prioritising educational content or apps, which can also help limit their exposure to advertising. Pay attention to what your child is watching and ensure messages about gender, body image, violence, diversity and social issues are appropriate.

3. Combine touchscreen use with creative or active play for variety.

4. Be purposeful in your reasons for allowing screen-time; spending time together, encouraging sharing, or learning about something new.

5. Limit screen time in public places and during family routines, such as at meals. Family times are prime opportunities for social development.

FREE

AvonheadShoppingCentre www.avonhead.co.nz

Studies have shown that content from TV can catch and hold the attention of babies from the age of 6-14 months, although they can only imitate, rather than absorb, the actions they see on screen.

By 18 months, babies can remember short sequences, but it’s not until the age of two that toddlers begin to understand the content.

Research indicates that toddlers learn best from face-to-face interactions at this age, but can begin to develop cognitive skills and positive racial attitudes from exposure to quality educational programming. So where does this information leave us as parents?

5 tips for mindful use of screen time

arrives!

th

Guidelines established by the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommend a maximum of one hour of ‘high-quality programming’ for children under six, but after that simply encourages parents to ‘place consistent limits on the time spent using media’ and designate screen-free time as a family.

10th - 24th December Visit our Gift Wrapping Station and get all your gifts wrapped up for FREE.

As technology becomes an increasingly central part of our children’s lives, it’s important to remember that kids under five learn best from live interactions with family members and caregivers. Being mindful of screen time doesn’t mean banning it altogether, just making sure it best supports children as they grow. Laughing and relaxing with Peppa Pig, or learning about the universe with Storybots can all add value to their lives, so the key is to be as involved in their screen time as we would be in all other aspects of their development.

c l a ss o f t h e i r o w n

explain why they chose to home school and what it looks like for them.

Elizabeth and Josh van Berkel

Why home school? Why not?

Josh

I don’t think people choose to home school for just one reason – we certainly didn’t. First of all it ticked the lifestyle box for us – we’ve been very deliberate about creating a life of freedom and flexibility, which is reflected not just in our decision to home-school but also in my choice to build my own business. Next week we’re going to the Gold Coast for a holiday; I don’t have to ask my boss for time off, and we don’t have to work around school holidays – I love that.

But I also believe that we can deliver a higher quality and more tailored education, be more available and hands-on with our kids and equip them for life better than anyone else – because no one knows our children as well as we do, and no one loves them as much as we do either.

I was home schooled so I guess I had the advantage of knowing what was involved, but the truth is you don’t need experience, training or a qualification. My wife, Liz, was reluctant at first and unlike me, had no idea what to expect – but she’d be the first to tell you it’s one of the best decisions we’ve ever made. I’m extremely grateful for the sacrifice she makes every day.

Elizabeth

Last night we sat at the dinner table and our oldest, Jessica (who is eight), asked to play ‘The Country Game’. Essentially, she picks a continent and then we all take turns naming a country in that continent until one of us can’t – then we’re out of the game: this is home schooling at our house.

The number one thing I’ve learned since beginning this journey is that you don’t have to be a natural born teacher or a supermum to home school; because kids love to learn, and they’ll find opportunities anywhere and everywhere. They’re born with an inbuilt desire to discover – from the first day they felt sand between their fingers (and just had to taste it), to the millions of ‘Why?’ questions they ask every day.

When my husband suggested home schooling my first response was: “Not me! I’m not educated enough, smart enough, patient

enough or fun enough! What if I’m the reason my kids don’t succeed and then can’t do what they want to do in life?!” These responses all make me laugh now and I’m so glad they didn’t stop me from just giving it a go – because the truth is that I love it, and so do my kids.

Some things you may not know about home schooling:

+ Unlike school, it doesn’t take six to eight hours a day to teach your children. There’s virtually no wasted time, and you can achieve so much more, so much faster when you’re dealing with one child, as opposed to 30. What takes all day at school can be achieved in as little as two hours at home. + Your child will not become a social misfit. The “How do they socialise?” question is common, but so easily answered.

First, the home-schooling community is significant, and we constantly interact; playdates are the norm, not the exception.

Second, extra-curricular activities are important. My children do swimming lessons, music lessons, ballet, sport and gymnastics – all with others their age. Third, our children are learning their social skills from us, mature adults (mostly!) – not from the 30 other six-year-olds in their class. We teach them how to behave, what’s appropriate and what isn’t, and how to treat others. + You don’t have to send your child to school until they’re six – which means when they turn five you can spend a year ‘unofficially’ home schooling. Use it, with absolutely no pressure, to try out ideas and see if it’s something that fits your family.

Home schooling my children has been one of the most rewarding experiences in my life to date, and I wouldn't change it for anything.

Not only do I have the privilege of watching my children develop a love of learning, but it’s creating that same love in me, which I never had growing up.

I think the big myth when it comes to home schooling is that you have to be some sort of super-mum to pull it off – that is simply not true. If I can do it, anyone can!

Summer / 2018

21

c l a ss o f t h e i r o w n

T he bilingual brain talks with neuroscience educator NATHAN WALLIS about the profound impact that learning a second language has on the development of the brain.

KATE BARBER

O

f all the things our brain does, language is the most complex, according to neuroscientist Nathan Wallis. The brain requires cognitive structures to support the acquisition of language, and “the more richly diverse the language, the more complex these structures need to be,” he explains.

It follows then, that growing up in a bilingual environment or having regular exposure to a second language leads to more complex cognitive development. That is, the benefits extend far beyond knowing two languages: learning a second language makes the brain itself more intelligent.

Nathan explains that there are measurable changes to the structure of the brain if a child is exposed to two languages before the age of seven. While there are, of course, advantages in learning a second language after this age, “the corpus callosum is measurably thicker if two languages are present before seven.

“It’s difficult to leap from brain structure to the exact functions of the brain,” he continues. “It’s a new and developing science, and the brain is more complex than that. But the corpus callosum integrates left and right hemispheres and this is associated with emotional regulation as well as higher cognitive function.”

In terms of cognitive function, “as soon as you have two languages, you actually have three,” he says, because you

22 Summer / 2018

c l a ss o f t h e i r o w n

In his presentations across the country and overseas, neuroscience presenter and director of X-Factor Education, Nathan Wallis explains that in the last 20 years there has been a proliferation of information about the brain and how it grows. He talks about the importance of our interactions with babies and young children in the first 1000 days as their brains ‘wire up’ for life. facebook.com/nathanwallisxfactoreducation

secondary school that students are offered the chance to learn a second language. That our children should consolidate one language before we introduce a second is an “old-fashioned idea”, he says.

But is there any shadow of truth in thinking that exposing a baby/ child to a second language will hinder their progress with English?

As Nathan explains, “growing up bilingual is, overall, associated with enhanced language acquisition in both languages, but could mean a child’s first language takes slighter longer to emerge as the child deals with the complexity of two languages. At three years of age they often mix the languages together, and may even create their own language, based on the two they have along with a dose of imagination. We now understand this to be a sign of complexity, not confusion.

“Generally, by five years of age, a child understands the first language better than a child exposed only to that first language.”

As astounding and exciting as this all sounds, how can we support our children to learn a second language? As products of an education system that focuses almost exclusively on English, many of us speak only one language: we talk, read and sing with our babies and children in English alone. have what’s called metalanguage, which is the capacity to compare these languages in terms of the rules they follow – whether the adjective precedes the noun (as in English) or follows it (as in Spanish), or whether the language contains gendered pronouns (he/ she) or only gender neutral ones.

Being able to compare the languages also involves recognising the different world views or ways of thinking that they open up. Nathan compares te reo Māori and English by way of example: whereas English is a language for technology, he says, te reo is one for spirituality, with many concepts that cannot be directly translated into English, like mana and mauri.

Metalanguage and metacognition are associated with higher intelligence, says Nathan. Once we have metalanguage, it becomes easier to pick up other languages. “The big leap is from one to two.”

Despite this obstacle, all is not lost. As Nathan says, it takes only 60 words to cover all the sounds unique to a language. So, by singing two waiata or reading two nursery rhymes in te reo each day, you expose your child to the unique sounds of that particular language thereby wiring up their brains to these sounds.

It takes only 60 words to cover all the sounds unique to a language. So, by singing two waiata or reading two nursery rhymes in te reo each day, you expose your child to the unique sounds of that particular language thereby wiring up their brains to these sounds.

So when is the time to take this big leap? In terms of reaping the benefits of learning a second language, “the earlier the better,” he says. “We have this window of opportunity when we are young to pick up a first language, and the same applies with a second.”

When it comes to school, the focus at primary is on developing children’s English language skills; generally speaking, it is not until

Whichever second language you choose to introduce to your child, it’s important to be committed and to speak the language with enthusiasm, he says. Using correct pronunciation is also important and exposing your child to a fluent speaker of the language is incredibly valuable in terms of reinforcing these connections.

Contrary to concerns that speaking to our babies and young children in a second language will confuse them, Nathan says that we actually want there to be some confusion. In the early years the brain is working out what sort of brain it needs to be for life. Through nurturing, responsive interactions that are richly diverse in language, the brain will grow; and through confusion it will develop greater structural complexity.

Kids who grow up exposed to and speaking only English “miss out on so much,” he says, in terms of the worlds that different languages open up, and in terms of the complexity of their brains.

Summer / 2018

23

Concert fundraiser for Canterbury Charity

Harp Orchestra & Celtic Fiddles, Hohepa Hall, 23 Barrington St

5 December, 7pm

blackcat.co.nz

Join the magical Akaroa Harbour Nature Cruise. Spot a Hector’s dolphin or cruise again for free.

Black Cat Cruises, Akaroa Harbour Wharf

canterburymuseum.com/whats-on

Stories of the canine members of the great Antarctic expeditions that pulled the sledges and provided companionship for explorers of the icy continent.

Dogs in Antarctica: Tales from the Pack, Canterbury Museum

Until 10 March, 9am-5.30pm daily

CHRISTCHURCH

Grab your family and friends, a packed lunch, and experience the Blackcaps

Blackcaps vs Sri Lanka - 2nd Test, Hagley Oval, South Hagley Park

26-30 December, 11am-6pm

cfnz.org.nz

Come and watch the BNZ Crusaders play a fantastically fun game of 20/20 cricket against our amazing All Stars captained

by Andrew Mehrtens. Free entry.

BNZ Crusaders vs All Stars Bat It Out for Cystic Fibrosis, Hagley Oval, South Hagley Park

15 December, 11am-5pm

See Santa on the beach, watch the parade, meet Santa in his grotto.

Parade begins at 10:30am corner of Marine Parade and Hawke St.

New Brighton Seaside Christmas Parade, New Brighton Pedestrian Mall

8 December, 10am-2pm

citychoir.co.nz

The Christchurch City Choir returns to St Margaret’s College for Handel’s Messiah, conducted by Dr John Linker and accompanied by the Christchurch Symphony Orchestra.

Handel’s Messiah, Charles Luney Auditorium, St Margaret’s College

1 January, 2-9pm

Spencer Park New Year’s gala and market, with family entertainment, rides for all ages, all day entertainment and a large market. Free entry.

Spencer Park Gala and Market, Spencerville

1-2 January, 10am

willowbank.co.nz

January

16-26

courttheatre.org.nz

Thumbelina’s tulip house is falling to pieces and she must find a new home.

Thumbelina is no tall story, but a celebration of life’s small victories.

Thumbelina, The Court Theatre

16-26 January

artscentre.org.nz

Open Monday to Friday, this interactive educational programme offers hands-on activities inspired by New Zealand scientist Ernest Lord Rutherford.

Rutherford’s Den, The Arts Centre

Enter (including kids mini strongman) or simply watch some people lift some heavy stuff! Share in the fun at Ferrymead with train rides, tram rides and food stalls.

Strongheld Heritage Games, Ferrymead Heritage Park

10 February, 10am-4:30pm

artscentre.org.nz

The Arts Centre is celebrating summer with another series of outdoor cinema events for the whole family.

Gold coin donation.

Outdoor Cinema, The Arts Centre of Christchurch, North Quad

25-26 January & 8-9 February, 5.30pm and 8pm

If you have an event you’d like to add to our autumn calendar, email kineta@27publishers.co.nz.

Celebrate wildlife as Elgregoe the Magician and his flock of highly trained parrots pass on important conservation messages using the power of entertainment and magic.

Willowbank Wildlife Reserve, 60 Hussey Road

27 December - 27 January, twice daily

this summer

Saturday 8 December, 7:30pm

What’s on

Summer is a fabulous time in Christchurch with plenty of fun events for the whole family. Get out and about and make the best of the long days.

Pull me out and pin me up

CHRISTCHURCH EVENT CALENDAR

6-8

December

facebook.com/NBSeasideMarket

Head to the seaside and enjoy live entertainment, great food, fresh produce, arts, crafts, jewellery and more. There’s also a bouncy castle and free face-painting.

New Brighton Seaside Market, New Brighton Pedestrian Mall, Brighton Mall

Saturday mornings, 10am-2pm

2729

isaactheatreroyal.co.nz

You’re invited to the best tea party in town – with the biggest tricks, the largest characters and the catchiest tunes.

Tickets from $41.50 + booking fee.

Mad Hatter’s Tea Party, Isaac Theatre Royal

27-29 December

nzc.nz

taking on the thrilling challenge of Sri Lanka across the Christmas and New Year holidays.

breadandcircus.co.nz

Celebrating a rich 25-year history, Bread & Circus 2019 is taking the World Buskers Festival into the future, with reimagined twists and turns.

Programme out now.

Bread & Circus – World Buskers Festival, Christchurch CBD

10 January - 3 February

TOP PICK

ferrymead.org.nz

Celebrate the New Year at Ferrymead Heritage Park. Enjoy a family day out with entertainment, great food and stalls.

Something for everyone.

New Year’s Day Market, Ferrymead Heritage Park

breadandcircus.co.nz

Hysterically silly, but completely captivating, Kids Comedy Gala is the kids version of Buskers Best Bits – a wonderfully entertaining treat for the whole family.

The Kids Comedy Gala, Isaac Theatre Royal

20 January, 2pm

chch10km.co.nz

Choose to compete in any or all of four 10km events (with 5km options) throughout Christchurch. Each event will be set on a different terrain bringing a new challenge. All ages.

The Christchurch 10km Walk/Run Series is back for 2019!

Christchurch 10km Series: Sand, New Brighton Beach, Marine Parade

20 January, 8am-11am

littlerivershow.org.nz

An epic day out in a beautiful location.

There are animals galore, local produce, food stalls, prizes, photographs, old machines, new machines and pony rides.

Little River A&P Show, Little River Domain, Little River

19 January, 8am-10pm

Water Safety and Awareness with

What to do in an emergency with

Getting in and out of the water with

Going under the water with

Floating on the water with

Moving through the water with

Rolling and turning in the water with

Water Skills for Life, taught in school, is a fun way to learn water safety.

December

ferrymead.org.nz

Ferrymead Heritage Park and Plunket are joining together to bring you their first ever Christmas Village, with 12 Christmas-themed displays and craft stalls.

Christmas Village, Ferrymead Heritage Park

6-8 December, from 10am daily

ymcachch.org.nz

Where theme park meets climbing wall, kids of all ages can enjoy an hour of fun or participate in classes throughout the year.

Clip ’n’ Climb, 239 Waltham Road

christchurchadventurepark.com

CAP has activities for all adventure levels and budgets. Take the chairlift, book a zipline tour or mountain bike lesson, or just hit the trails or visit the cafe.

Christchurch Adventure Park, 225 Worsleys Road

Hospital featuring participants age seven to 70! Adults $15, Family $25, students & unwaged $10.

nzc.nz

16

watersafety.org.nz/forlife

February

International cricket is the epitome of the NZ summer experience. It’s the catches in the crowd, the costumes, the immaculate field and that perfect pitch.

Blackcaps v Bangladesh: 2nd ODI, Hagley Oval, South Hagley Park

16 February, 11am-7pm

thetoycollector.co.nz

A labour of love, this personally curated toy collection will take you back in time.

Open daily during the school holidays to browse and buy.

Throughout the school holidays, The Toy Collector, 90 Falsgrave Street

strongman.co.nz

D U NE D IN CALEN D AR

What’s on

this summer

DUNEDIN

5 December, 6.30pm

30 December to 3 January

The Great New Zealand Santa Run, John Wilson Ocean Drive

Whare Flat Folk Festival, Waiora Scout Camp, Whare Flat

Rialto, 11 Moray Place Bring the whole family to Rialto Cinemas during the summer holidays to get the cheapest family pass deal in town from just $29.

See a whole lotta Santas! Take the kids to watch Daddy in the Great NZ Santa Run. Participants receive a Santa suit and entry fees raise funds for the Graeme Dingle Foundation.

rialto.co.nz

runningcalendar.co.nz

Pack up the kids for four days idyllic camping and musical fun at this annual festival run by the Dunedin Folk Club that attracts amazing musicians, both international and Kiwi-made. Or stay home, and go in daily – it’s just 15mins from central Dunners.

Bursting with energy from the sun, summer delivers a range of activities to keep the kids entertained through the holidays, and beyond.

If you have an event you’d like to add to our autumn calendar, email kineta@27publishers.co.nz.

TOP PICK

1-2 December

9, 15, 23, 29 December, 2.30pm

Family Fun Weekend, Otago Model Engineering Society Ride the trains, watch the boats and the scale railway, check out the LEGO® display and make a Christmas decoration. Bring a picnic and relax...

Proceeds to Tedz4thekidz.

Live at Iona, Iona Church, Mount Street, Port Chalmers

5

A series of informal, friendly, 50-minute long summer concerts showcasing impressive musicianship including classical guitar, blues and alternative folk.

Entry by koha. Series continues on January 6, 12 and 20.

December

omes.org.nz

1-24 December, 11am-4pm daily Santa’s Grotto, Meridian Mall Santa will be at Meridian Mall until Christmas Eve! Get your photo taken and post a letter in his special mailbox.

Santa’s helpers will also be providing FREE gift wrapping! meridianmall.co.nz

7 December, 10am Toddler Time, Toitū Otago Settlers Museum Join us for stories, songs and activities at Toitū OSM – venue varies depending on what stories are being told. Gold coin, limited spaces, bookings required.

19-23 December Christmas Cave, Port Chalmers Town Hall Have a fun evening with the kids at the Christmas Cave Grotto. Remember to bring your camera and get photos with Santa. Gold coin entry.

toituosm.com

Tūhura, Otago Museum

7-24 December, 10am-5pm Crafty Christmas, Toitū Otago Settlers Museum

December

1-24

Escape Dunedin

Challenge your code-cracking skills in this totally unique, immersive experience where two to six people are locked in a room with 60 minutes to find a way out. escapedunedin.com

Come and join the festive fun making Christmas cards and decorations from recycled and craft materials. Try out Christmas dress ups and take a family photo. Wind down from the Christmas shopping while the children play. Free. toituosm.com

Dunedin Street Art Trail

26 Summer / 2018

The Tūhura Otago Community Trust Science Centre has over 45 hands-on interactives, including a giant DNAinspired helical slide, and a three-tier tropical butterfly enclosure.

Your science centre admission ticket also provides access to the Beautiful Science gallery.

Hare Hill Horse Treks, 207 Aramoana Road Suitable for beginners right through to advanced riders, meander across farmland and through the bush, on short jaunts or overnight adventures.

facebook.com/dunedinstreetart

horseriding-dunedin.co.nz

#wilddunedinfestival

Wild-Dunedin

20 February, 11am-7pm Blackcaps v Bangladesh 3rd ODI, University Oval, Logan Park Drive International cricket is the epitome of the NZ summer experience. It’s the catches in the crowd, the costumes, the immaculate field and that perfect pitch. nzc.nz

February

20

otagomuseum.nz

Take the kids on a hunt for bare walls throughout the city that have been transformed into works of art.

NZ FESTIVAL OF NATURE 22 - 28 April 2019

www.wilddunedin.nz

whareflat.org.nz

Train Rides at the Botanic Garden, Dunedin Botanic Garden, departing near cafe Hop aboard and enjoy a 10 minute train ride around the lower Botanic Garden. crestrides.org.nz

DUNEDIN M A RK ETPL ACE

mhc.co.nz/Services/Paediatrician

L arnach Castle

MEGAZONE Leave the FUN to US

Game Store s e i t vR Par

Mini

Laser Tag

Golf

y TAg Archer and lots more !

www.Megazonedunedin.co.nz

03 474 9179

Special Deals Holiday Events

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Summer / 2018

27

Tweens and Teens

Staying safe online S

ticks ’n Stones, a multi-award winning, youth-led bullying prevention organisation announced a landmark partnership with Facebook in October to take a new online safety programme into high schools across New Zealand. The programme will see 500 ‘online advocates’ from more than 40 schools trained by Sticks ’n Stones to reach more than 15,000 young Kiwis in metropolitan, regional and remote communities.

With recent New Zealand studies highlighting education as one of the most critical drivers of change in positive online behaviour, Facebook’s support will significantly scale Sticks 'n Stones' existing work in schools to improve teen safety and wellbeing through peer-to-peer support and learning.

Young people move seamlessly between their online and offline lives so empowering teens to have positive experiences online also means supporting them with confidence and skills to use in everyday life.

One of the issues that has been identified as a key area of concern is cyberbullying. Bullying is not new but technology has certainly changed how it reaches and affects us. Most young

28 Summer / 2018

The internet offers children incredible opportunities to connect and collaborate with others. But how do we protect against cyber bullying?

people experiencing cyberbullying will also be experiencing bullying in person. This has a massive impact on their confidence and self-belief.

What is also worrying is that almost half of young people experiencing bullying are not reaching out for help – they are keeping it to themselves, ignoring it and hoping it will go away.

Understanding the current obstacles for young people to ask for help as well as providing training and support to develop help-seeking skills are two priorities within the programmes. There is also an online help tool developed for young people by young people to offer judgment and jargon-free information if you are dealing with online harm or negativity – icon.org.nz (icon means in case of online negativity).

Providing ongoing support will, over time, help change norms, attitudes and behaviours that accept bullying behaviours (online or off) and is one of the goals of Sticks ’n Stones.

A one-off presentation or workshop does not create sustainable change (no matter how inspiring or engaging).

The ‘online advocate’ partnership will harness the power of technology to enable the organisation to spread this work across the country.

Launch of Online Advocates in Wellington on 16th October.

Young people can join the ‘catalyst crew’, working closely with Sticks ’n Stones to become leaders in their schools.

Learn more and sign up at: facebook.com/groups/snscatalyst

29 EVENTS NATIONWIDE BOXING DAY — 17 FEBRUARY 2019

RUAKAKA 5 Jan 2019

New Zealand’s favourite summer racedays are back for another season!

When the hustle and bustle of Christmas ends, it becomes the best opportunity to find time with friends and family at an Interislander Summer Festival Raceday. Pack some goodies in a picnic basket, or enjoy delicious offerings from food vendors spotted around the racecourses. These events are the perfect place to relax because everything is organised for you - all you need to do is turn up!

TE AROHA 3 Jan 2019

TAURANGA

2 Jan 2019

ROTORUA TAUPO

27 Dec 2018

GISBORNE

30 Dec 2018

STRATFORD

HASTINGS

29 Dec 2018

PALMERSTON NORTH

Bringing your community together

17 Feb 2019 1 Jan 2019

5 Jan 2019

ŌTAKI Whether you’re at a rural racecourse for your town’s 7 Jan 2019 WAIRARAPA 3 Feb 2019 annual get-together or you’re bringing together your 2 Jan 2019 NELSON 6 Feb 2019 family and friends, community is at the heart of 11 & 13 Jan 2019 WELLINGTON every Interislander Summer Festival raceday.

WESTPORT BLENHEIM 26 Jan 2019 26 & 28 Dec 2018 The Interislander Summer Festival brings 20 Jan 2019 GREYMOUTH everyone together, from the young to the REEFTON 6 Jan 2019 30 Dec 2018 young at heart.

HOKITIKA

Entertainment for the whole family Many of the racedays will allow you to get up-close to the horses, jockeys and drivers. It’s a money can’t buy experience! With free kids entry and entertainment, from tug of war to sack races, there is something to keep the kids busy while you relax and enjoy the racing action.

RANGIORA

15 Jan 2019

6 Feb 2019

MOTUKARARA 29 Dec 2018 27 Jan 2019

KUROW

30 Dec 2018

CROMWELL 6 Jan 2019

WAIKOUAITI WINGATUI

26 Dec 2018

1 Jan 2019

Visit theraces.co.nz Summer / 2018

29

Pets

Raising

animal lovers explores the benefits that fostering a love of animals can have for our children.

KELLY EDEN-CALCOTT

G

rowing up, my sisters and I had a farm’s worth of animals scattered around our small suburban property. Dogs, cats, mice, rats, guinea-pigs, lizards, frogs, fish, birds and bunnies – we had a lot of pets! Even if you can’t accommodate as many as we did, there are certainly some very good reasons for helping your children foster a love of animals.

Many living situations make pet ownership difficult but there are other ways to include animals in your children’s world. For a whole year my daughters and I volunteered as SPCA kitten cuddlers. For an hour or two each week we spent time patting and cuddling cats and kittens to socialise them, preparing them for their new families. It was great for the cats, some of which came in fairly wild, but had many benefits for my children too. Their fear of cats disappeared and they became compassionate and ‘tuned in’ to the animals. They learned to take a very gentle approach with the scared ones and be very observant of the cats’ signals. The volunteering experience led to us adopting two cats of our own who are adored by my girls.

Starting off with bugs as pets is another way to introduce animals.

Snails are great! Or simply observe, or catch and release caterpillars, ladybugs, and spiders.

Pet friendly

The empathy and social skills children learn when caring for animals translates to how they treat others as well. Animals require gentleness, responsibility, and putting yourself in others’ shoes – does kitty like that? Research has shown that children benefit greatly from interactions with animals especially in their development of empathy for others.

Animals can benefit children emotionally too. Companion animals have fantastic benefits for us both mentally and physically, including reduced stress, according to numerous studies. Clearly there are just some things that are best talked out with your dog.

Pictured is the charming pet friendly Banksia Cottage, Akaroa ID #4959

holidays

There's no need to leave any family members behind when you go away!

Save both stress and money by taking your fur babies with you.

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ith a collection of nearly 450 pet friendly holiday homes in key areas like Akaroa, Hanmer Springs and the Southern Lakes, Bachcare has now expanded their services to Dunedin, Karitane and Te Anau – so there’s even more choice for you and your pooch to find your perfect holiday home for summer!

As the pet friendly experts, Bachcare’s search filter easily shows which of their homes allow pets to stay inside, and which have a setup for outside living for your favourite member of the family.

And it’s the economical choice as well – with just a $20 charge for up to two pets for the whole stay, you can imagine the savings compared to your local boarding kennel.

Starting in 2003, Bachcare now has nearly 2,000 holiday homes across all your favourite NZ destinations. And along with a huge range of pet and family friendly homes, the unique aspect of Bachcare is that you’ll have a local holiday manager on call throughout your stay. They know the house inside out and can help with any questions or issues during the stay, including the best walks for the dog.

Explore new areas with the whole family in the comfort of knowing that booking your accommodation with Bachcare means you are supporting a 100 per cent Kiwi company. bachcare.co.nz

30 Summer / 2018

Money Matters

Jobs for

little kids

In an extract from her book Smart Money Smart Kids, Rachel Cruze discusses how to introduce the concept of working for payment to under fives.

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ithout fail, every time I’m on the road speaking to groups, I have a parent ask me, “How can I raise my kids not to feel entitled? How can I teach them the value of a dollar?” From my experience, the basic principle of working is one of the best ways to combat the attitude of entitlement.

The younger you can start them on this road to discovery the better, but don’t get carried away! For young children, I recommend that you limit the number of chores – somewhere around three jobs – and keep them short and simple. You want each job to be enough that it feels like a big accomplishment, but not so much that it seems complicated or impossible to complete.

Pay Fast and With Excitement!

When you’re initiating the commission system with kids under the age of seven, you should pay them as soon as the job is complete. They need that immediate connection between the work they did and the money you’re handing them. Younger kids don’t relate the action and the reward if payment is delayed, especially by several days.

+ Picking up toys

As soon as your child finishes the job, you should inspect the work. You’ve got to really amp up the enthusiasm here.

Get excited! If they cleaned their room, then they need to feel like they are the most incredible room-cleaners on the face of the earth! It may sound silly, but you’re doing two things by expressing your excitement: You’re showing them how proud you are of the work they’ve done, and you’re building up their own pride in their hard work. At that point, handing them their commission for the job doesn’t come across as an expectation; it comes across for what it is: payment for a job well done. That’s the kind of mindset you want to encourage.

+ Putting dirty clothes in the washing basket

The Main Goal: Spend

Some great options for chores at this age include:

+ Making his or her own bed + Matching socks in the clean washing + Setting the dinner table (with supervision) + Collecting the indoor rubbish bins from around the house + Helping carry in light groceries

When you have a three-, four-, or five-year-old, getting them to do a few chores and paying them is an incredible head start. Most children this age can’t fully grasp money concepts like setting some aside for saving and spending (we will get there soon; don’t worry). So, the best way to reward your young child is to go shopping with some of the money they have earned. Can you imagine how proud they will feel when they hand the cashier a couple of dollars that they earned all by themselves? Something amazing happens in little boys and girls when they get to walk into a store, pick out a toy all by themselves, and pay for it with money they earned.

As a #1 New York Times best-selling author and host of The Rachel Cruze Show, Rachel helps people learn the proper ways to handle money and stay out of debt. She’s authored three best-selling books, including Love Your Life, Not Theirs and Smart Money Smart Kids, which she co-wrote with her father, Dave Ramsey. rachelcruze.com

Summer / 2018

31

Health & Wellbeing

Recipes raise money for sick kids

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he EATS cookbook, from One Mother to Another, is a collation of recipes from household names, chefs and everyday mums designed to fund the ongoing support of mums and carers in hospital with sick children.

Recipes have been generously donated from Nigella Lawson, Peter Gordon, and our own Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern as well as mothers who’ve received One Mother to Another gift bags, and hospital staff who’ve given them out.

The Christchurch-based charity was started by two mothers Christina Buckland and Joy Reid after they both mothers experienced unexpected hospital stays with their children.

They currently provide 170 gift bags each month to four South Island hospital wards (Christchurch Hospital’s Neonatal Intensive Care Unit and Children’s Acute Assessment Unit, Nelson’s Special Care Baby Unit and Southland’s Neonatal Intensive Care Unit.) onemothertoanother.org.nz

‘Chocolate’ Ice Blocks Recipe by Christina, co-founder of One Mother to Another My kids love these ice blocks, and I have that wonderful smug feeling that parents get when your kids are eating nourishing foods and they don’t even know it!

What you need 1 cup unsalted cashew nuts 1 large banana ¼ cup cocoa powder 300-350 ml coconut milk

METHOD 1. Place the cashew nuts in a bowl, cover with water and put in the fridge overnight to soak. The next morning, drain the nuts and place them into the blender or food processor.

2. Add the banana, cocoa powder and coconut milk, and blend well until smooth.

3. Pour into ice block moulds and place in the freezer.

4. Once the ice blocks are frozen they are ready to enjoy. You can run them under warm water to release them from the moulds.

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32 Summer / 2018

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Applications for 2019 open now.

EDUCATION

Health & Wellbeing

With the summer season on its way our thoughts turn to summer fun and outdoor adventures.

Five tips to maximize your sun protection.

1. (Sun) screen time: This is one screen time kids can have more of! Slop on plenty of water resistant, broad spectrum sunscreen with a sun protective factor (SPF) of at least 30. Apply sunscreen 20 mins before going outdoors and re-apply every 2 hrs. (and after swimming or sweating).

2. It’s a cover up: Covering up and seeking shade when UV levels reach 3 and above can help avoid painful sunburn. Elbow length or long sleeves, shirts with collars and longer length skirts or shorts are best.

3. Brimming with protection: Wearing a wide brimmed hat (not cap) can provide protection for your face, neck, ears and scalp. Darker fabrics and fabrics with a closer weave offer better protection.

Protect skin for life!

4. Stay alert: The Sun Protection Alert is a useful tool that tells you the time each day that you need to protect your skin and eyes based on expected UV levels for the day. Click on your city or town to see your Sun Protection Alert time for the day.

Visit sunsmart.org.nz/sun-protection-alert.

he Cancer Society of New Zealand encourages people to be SunSmart when Ultra Violet Radiation (UVR) levels reach 3 and above but especially from September to April between 10 am and 4pm. This means: slip into sun protective clothing and slip into shade; slop on a broad spectrum sunscreen with sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 30; slap on a wide brimmed hat and wrap on some sunnies.

5. It’s a wrap: The skin around the eyelid is exceedingly thin and may be injured by UV light.

UV protective sunglasses help to reduce UV exposure to your eyes. Choose close fitting, wrap-around styles.

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Combining these SunSmart actions rather than just relying on sunscreen will give you and your family better protection from harmful UVR.

cancernz.org.nz

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Summer / 2018

33

Facial Beauty and A Smile to share – “The Non-Surgical, Non-Extraction way” Before

“we want to bring balance and facial symmetry to your child’s smile and face —helping them look and feel their best.”- Says Dr. Sachdev of Smilesville Dental

After

Early intervention Dentofacial Orthopaedics is based on treatment at a younger age. It works by guiding and developing the growth of the muscles, teeth and bone into the ideal shape and their relationship with each other in a “non-surgical, non-extraction” way, creating stable bites using postural changes. This treatment focuses on creating room to accommodate all the adult teeth, alleviate crowding and produce a more balanced facial profile.

Guiding the growth of the jaws helps address and prevent overcrowded teeth and poor biting relationships between the upper and lower jaws.

Normally this treatment can be done without the need for jaw surgery and without the need for tooth extractions. Dentifacial Orthopedic treatment not only creates a full profile and a wide natural smile, a more open airway (addressing breathing problems such as asthma, mouth breathing, snoring and sleep apnoea) but also promotes the healthy positioning of the jaw joints (TMJs).

Face & smile improvement of a Smilesville patient

Before

After

Early intervention allows to focus on the growth, development and wellbeing of our younger patients along with straightening teeth before permanent teeth are set thereby bringing balance and facial symmetry. By using early orthodontics our goal is to maintain or provide space for permanent teeth so they grow in straight. This minimises the need for more extensive and painful intervention later. “we believe 7-8 years of age is the best time

to assess if your child would benefit from this treatment.”

Face & smile improvement of a Smilesville patient

Smilesville offers the revolutionary Invisalign teeth straightening option of realigning teeth without the use of metal is a major advancement in the field of Orthodontics due to its Invisible nature. An option available from PreTeens up to adults of any age. “we believe in minimally invasive

What Smilesville patients are saying Ruth: “Very happy with the good care taken of my children during their

dentistry and invisalign is the least invasive procedure to straightening teeth and getting an amazing smile.” says Dr.

orthodontics. Some nervous moments as the treatment involved an ‘ugly duckling’ phase but as a result they have fabulous smiles and we are all very pleased. Rusheka is very patient with people and accommodating and I recommend coming when your children are as young as 8 to be able to take advantage of the most options for their treatment.”

Sachdev of Smilesville Dental

It’s major advantage is no wires to trap food, no manipulating toothbrushes around fixed wires, it helps the wearer to maintain a high level of dental hygiene.

Smilesville Dental was the first Invisalign platinum provider from Christchurch (and the whole of the South Island) having more than 10 years Invisalign experience.

Grant: “Competent , professional care with a laugh and a smile. Ruchika looks after myself and two of my children. She is great with the kids, especially my youngest who can be a testing patient.”

Smilesville Dental exclusively offers expert advise and treatments in advanced cosmetic dentistry, Smile design and full mouth reconstruction, Implants, Invisalign and Orthodontics to give you an amazing Smile not only to Smile … but to smile with Confidence.

Chelsea: “My dearest Ruchika and Sam, I have so much to be thankful for.

Thank you for the beautiful smile you created for me. I now can freely smile without any resistance in photos and my self esteem has risen tremendously.

I always had suffered from tension headaches and thought it had been due to stress or working in front of a screen and since I had previously had orthodontics I never considered that it may be an issue with my bite. I had trusted the generic “one size fits all” orthodontics slapped on me as a kid and thought to accept the smile I had. Ruchika comprehensively explained to me in terms which weren’t intimidating or confusing and how we could free myself of those headaches and also gain a “hollywood smile”. I’ve never met such a hardworking and committed health professional who treats every patient as though they are her first. The Invisalign system is magical! - no more wires, hiding in toilets, picking food from braces, no bleeding gums in fact no one knew I had them! After my orthodontics, Ruchika worked through the night (literally!!) to perfect my composite veneers all in time for my birthday... (you find me a dental franchise who would do that...)

I love you guys xx.”

talk to the friendly staff at smilesville Dental to transform your child’s face, jaws, teeth and life!

Call 0800 inVisiBle (0800 468 474) Get a Free Consultation now and see how Smilesville Dental can transform your child’s face, jaws, teeth and potentially lifestyle going forward!

Call 0800 INVISIBLE (0800 468 474)

Leaders in Appearance dentistry • Orthodontics for adults, youth and children • Invisalign – The Invisible way to straighten teeth - First Ever Platinum Provider of the South Island treating with Invisalign for 10 years + • Free dental treatment for 13-18yr olds (OHSA conditions apply) 34 Summer / 2018

• Extreme Dental makeovers • Whitening • General Dental and complete Hygiene services • Implants • A specialist referral might be required in some cases • Best price Guaranteed

Shop 201, Westfield Riccarton Mall 131 Riccarton Road, Riccarton, Christchurch

Located above ASB bank (best access via Lift in Farmers store)

0800 INVISIBLE (0800 468 474)

smilesville.co.nz

Health & Wellbeing

Time out

for mums

Fitness instructor Bevan James Eyles looks at the importance for women to take a little time for themselves during the allconsuming role of being a mum.

I

’m going to admit something that will put me in a bad light; when I was young I thought that mums were lazy. In my mind, mums sat around watching Oprah all day, having coffee with friends, and living the easy life. Before all you mums get mad at me, I need to tell you that as soon as I became a dad, at just 19 years old, I realised how wrong I had been. Mums have the hardest job in the world!

I’m sure just about anyone who has children or who has spent time around a mother with children will totally agree with my last statement.

Children, especially young children, take up a massive amount of energy. They are 100 per cent dependent. They need someone to be there 24/7, to change nappies, wake up in the middle of the night to feed them, keep them safe, and give them that loving, caring attention that every child needs. When we think about the practical work that most mothers have to do it is easy to see that it is far more than a full-time job, it’s a life consuming role. And there’s one aspect of being a mother that is a really difficult thing to face – the loss of ‘self ’.

During the first period of a child’s life, the mother’s life will often take a back seat to the child’s. She will sacrifice everything that is important to her because she has to. Although a mother will get a lot of rewards from the time and energy she puts into her child, she can struggle with the feeling that she are losing herself. Most people have hobbies, a job, a social life and an exercise routine prior to having children. These activities help mold our identities.

Often, as soon as a child is born, most of these activities have to stop for the mother as the child will now be taking up every waking moment of

her life. Suddenly overnight there is a change in identity – no wonder a lot of mothers feel that loss of self. Can you imagine having to stop all of the activities that create your sense of identity and step into a role that is extremely hard work?

If we can start to understand that mums need some time to keep their sense of identity alive, we can look for ways to support them through this. During the early stages of a child’s life a mother is never going to have a huge amount of time to commit to ‘stuff for herself ’ but there is real benefit in having just a little bit of that ‘me time’. I often see it with our runners who are mums – being able to get away for a few hours a week and go into an environment where they can do something for themselves, where they can talk about things that don’t involve kids, seems to do them a world of good. It gives them something for themselves.

The message I would like to get out there for those of us who aren’t mothers is: What are the ways you can support those mothers around you to allow them a little bit of time for themselves?

Your support need not take up much of your time but will likely be valued beyond measure by the mum you offer it to. For the dads out there, the question I have is: Are you helping your partner have time for herself? This is a tough time for both parents but if you can work together, you can create a routine that allows both of you to

have a bit of your own time and this will go a long way to keeping your relationship healthy.

Being a mum is a special thing, a role that is so important in this world. The more loved children we can create for this world the better and good mums are a crucial part of this. When a mother has a little bit of time for herself, I imagine she is able to do a better job with her children. So, for those of us who are around mums, let’s try to help them have this balance.

Bevan James Eyles has been a world leading fitness professional since 1999.

Among his many achievements are winning New Zealand fitness instructor of the year three times and authoring his book The Fitness Attitude. bevanjameseyles.com

Summer / 2018

35

LITTLE & GREAT O U T D OOR S

Adventures in nature

In these days of screen time, it’s important to encourage children to be active outdoors. Just 15 minutes from the city, Christchurch Adventure Park (CAP) is an ideal place to inspire your children into active play.

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hether your family prefer their adventures adrenalin-fuelled or more laid-back, there is something to satisfy every youngster from toddlers through to teens. Thrill-seekers will be excited by a downhill mountain bike ride (coaching and bike hire is offered) or zipline, but there are plenty of other options at CAP that do not have to cost a thing.

The younger visitors will love burning some energy on the trampoline, while any age can hone their skills on the pump track. Make them feel like they’re on top of the world by taking a ride up the chairlift, or walk to the top for a real sense of accomplishment and then catch the lift down for free.

As well as building their brains, imaginations, stamina and confidence, all of this outside activity will build up a healthy appetite. The Handle Bar & Café – with a large covered deck and indoor kids’ area – will satisfy hunger and thirst.

36 Summer / 2018

CAP is also a great venue for a children’s party with qualified instructors who can take the kids off your hands for a while with a group mountain bike lesson; give them an experience to remember with a zipline tour; or just let them loose on the pump track and trampoline, which are free to use. The cafe can provide a party spread to suit, including the Kid’s Party Special of chicken nuggets and chips, fresh fruit platter, cheerios & tomato sauce, cupcakes and a juice, for $15 per child. You can order a birthday cake too! christchurchadventurepark.com

LITTLE & GREAT O U T D OOR S

Angling

for Adventure

Fishing hot spots?

Wherever you go in New Zealand, north or south, inland or near the coast, you are likely to be close to some pretty good trout fishing.

North Canterbury

Whether you’re a seasoned angler, or simply enjoy time outdoors with your kids or grandkids, family fishing is fantastic fun.

In the North Canterbury region, the Rakaia,

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lakes also offer land-locked salmon, brown trout,

hatever region you live in or plan to visit, there are lakes, rivers, back country streams and spring creeks flowing with brown and rainbow trout. Instil or indulge that sense of adventure in your kids and grandkids, and share the sense of satisfaction that comes with preparing and cooking your catch – and eating it, of course!

rainbow trout, mackinaw and splake.

WHAT TACKLE & EQUIPMENT DO I NEED?

Opihi-Temuka and Ashburton, together with many

Waimakariri, Hurunui and Waiau Rivers offer excellent sea-run salmon fishing between November and March. More than 30 high country

The tackle and equipment you’ll need will depend on the location and timing of your fishing and of course your chosen technique. Spin fishing in New Zealand is an ideal way to begin trout fishing as the skills involved are easily mastered. All that you’ll need is a basic outfit of rod, reel and line, plus a few lures.

A wide brimmed hat is essential, along with quality sunscreen. Generally you can wade in shorts, but lightweight trousers or waders are often used.

The Rangitata River mouth is one of the best known locations for salmon. Smaller rivers including the high country lakes, provide habitat for substantial brown and rainbow trout fisheries.

Otago Otago has, without doubt, some of the most diverse waters for sports fishing in New Zealand.

They range from the unique high country experiences on gin-clear southern lakes river tributaries, to ‘put and take’ reservoir fisheries in

WHAT LICENCE DO I NEED?

To go freshwater fishing in New Zealand, you must first purchase a licence. There are nine different licences to suit different personal circumstances, lifestyles, ages and stages, and these may be purchased at fishandgame.org.nz. Under 12s can ‘go fish’ for free.

A Family Licence ($165) allows mum and dad or the grandparents to fish with the kids (up to four children or grandchildren under the age of 18) from 1 October to 30 September.

1 DAY 3 DAY 9 DAY WINTER SEASON LOCAL SENIOR FAMILY VISITOR

Central South Island

Dunedin city.

With the proper information and equipment, and forward planning, fishing is incredibly fun and rewarding for the whole family. fishandgame.org.nz

Buy your licence online or at stores nationwide.

Visit fishandgame.org.nz for all the details.

We’ve introduced a brand new range of licences to better suit your fishing needs.

Whether you’re out there for a day or the whole year, you’ll find the right licence for you.

fishandgame.org.nz

Summer / 2018

37

GAR D ENING

Garden to table Summer is the perfect time to introduce your children to the joys of growing vegetables, says Linda Taylor.

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ow that the weather is warmer, it’s a pleasure to be outside, and gardening with your children is a great way to keep them busy during the school holidays.

It’s also an opportunity to increase your child’s consumption of fresh fruit and vegetables, the philosophy behind the Garden to Table programme which runs in nearly 200 primary schools across the country.

It’s easy to grow vegetables at home and you don’t need to have a large vegetable patch to get started. Many vegetables can be grown in pots on the deck – think tomatoes, peas or a lettuce selection – and you can be as creative as you like. Old gumboots or buckets can be turned into planters, and painting and decorating the outside can make the project more fun.

Rock out

in your garden

Choose vegetables that your child enjoys eating and plants that are fast-growing. Most seed packets will tell you how long you will have to wait for the exciting bit when the seedlings show above the soil. If you can, grab a bag of seed-raising mix from your local garden store, and then get planting. Let your child do as much as they can, with your supervision. Simple steps like creating holes for the seeds with their finger, up to the first knuckle, and spacing out the holes by a handspan are practical ways for children to learn about measurement, as well as gardening.

Place your seedlings in a sunny spot out of the wind and, with regular watering, you should see your first seedlings within a week or two.

INSTRUCTIONS

With Resene’s wide range of colourful paints and plenty of painted rock ideas on Pinterest, your garden will soon be full of cheeky characters these holidays.

3. As shown in the photo, use Resene All Black to paint a centre line so that it looks like the rock has two wings. Then add some spots and a head to the ladybug.

Materials

4. Use Resene Alabaster and Resene All Black for the eyes.

Resene testpots: Resene Bright Red, Resene All Black, Resene Alabaster Resene Clearcoat UVS or Resene Art Action Glaze gloss (if you want a gloss finish) Resene detail paintbrushes

YOUR HOME OF JOHN DEERE TOYS CHRISTMAS SALE ON NOW! SHOP ONLINE AT www.dne.co.nz ASHBURTON | BLENHEIM | CHRISTCHURCH | GREYMOUTH KAIKOURA | NELSON | OAMARU | TIMARU 38 Summer / 2018

gardentotable.org.nz

Add some colourful characters to your garden, like this ladybug.

Made by Kineta Booker .

Stones of all shapes and sizes

For all your DIY projects, big or small, visit your nearest Resene ColorShop. resene.co.nz/colorshops

The Garden to Table Trust is a charity focused on food, education and literacy.

It works by building life skills through practical hands-on, child-centric classes, which are linked to the school curriculum.

It teaches children to grow, harvest, prepare and share fresh produce. Visit

1. Find some nice flat stones. Give them a good wash and leave them to dry.

2. Use Resene Bright Red as the undercoat.

Once dry, give it a second coat.

5. If you prefer a low sheen then you’re done! For a shiny finish use Resene Clearcoat UVS or Resene Art Action Glaze gloss as a topcoat.

TIP: To label plants, find palm-sized rocks, grab some Resene Blackboard Paint and give them a couple of coats. Write on them with chalk and you have some stylish plant markers.

On Holiday

Surprising family accommodation:

YHA New Zealand We all know an activity-packed Wellington weekend with the kids can spell one thing: a high price tag. Well-located, functional accommodation doesn’t sound cheap either, but YHA’s high quality budget accommodation means you can rest easy in central Wellington, and spend your money on more of the fun stuff.

YHA Wellington is hard to beat on location – whether it’s the five-minute stroll to Te Papa, harbour views from the upper levels, or being across the road from a supermarket, there’s something to appeal to everyone. The on-site espresso bar and breakfast bagel deals are pretty popular too!

Check into your secure family room (ensuites available if you’re feeling fancy!), relax in the comfortable shared lounges, and whip up a home-cooked meal in the fully-equipped kitchens. You’ll find laundry facilities, board games, TV, and the thing the kids can’t live without – free wifi!

Best of all, with YHA’s new digital membership, you get 10 per cent off accommodation booked at yha.co.nz, plus you’ll have access to over 2000 discounts on restaurants and activities across New Zealand and Australia. See more, do more, and pay less – stay with YHA. yha.co.nz

Experience Wellington Whether you’re there for a short jaunt or a long relaxing week, Wellington is the perfect place for a family holiday, writes Kineta Booker .

Little Creators

W

Te Papa

ellington is a favourite holiday destination of my son, Austen. He’s been there only once – more than a year ago, but he still talks about the fun he had.

Paw Patrol the musical was in town and because the production wasn’t going to be coming to the South Island, a trip to the North with his Paw Patrol-loving cousin was called for.

This was Austen’s first plane ride, and with a 45-minute flight time from Christchurch, it was the perfect introduction to flying. Nice and short. Once we arrived in Wellington, the airport bus (airportflyer.co.nz) took us right to our accommodation. Austen was thrilled as he climbed the bus’s stairs – this was also his first trip on a bus. So many firsts!

Once we had checked into the hotel, and the kids had done their obligatory jump on their hotel beds, there were plenty of adventures ahead for us. Here are some ideas for you:

They provide the craft materials, you take your imagination! Guided by their Creativity Curators, your tamariki will get to create to their heart’s content! capitale.org.nz

Create, innovate and collaborate. Explore Te Papa’s collections and exhibitions using cutting-edge technologies. tepapa.govt.nz

Wellington Zoo See the capybaras, caracals, pygmy marmosets, the cute red pandas, sun bears, and many more varied and interesting animals at Wellington Zoo – New Zealand’s first zoo. wellingtonzoo.com

Take the scenic route Why not make the most of the South Island's beauty and enjoy the newly reopened Coastal Pacific train to Picton (greatjourneysofnz.co.nz) then cruise on an Interislander ferry (interislander.co.nz) to Wellington!

Take the cable car (wellingtoncablecar.co.nz), visit the Space Place (museumswellington.org.nz), enjoy the beautiful botanical gardens (wellington.govt.nz), go on a touring adventure at the BeeHive (parliament.nz), sample some deliciousness at Wellington Chocolate Factory (wcf.co.nz) and take in the sights from the Mt Victoria Lookout. (wellingtonnz.com).

ADD A CRUISE TO YOUR ROAD TRIP

TAKE A HOLIDAY FROM HOLIDAYS Summer / 2018

39

Food

Encouraging kids to

eat healthy foods

Health researcher Jason Shon Bennett shares his tips on how to teach, lead and inspire your kids to make good healthy long-term choices around food.

I

started raising my four kids (now in their mid-teens and late 20s) in the 1980s and I am now helping to raise my granddaughter. The question I have been asked more than almost anything else around parenting is “How did you get your kids to eat healthy foods?”

The moment I knew I’d made it as a parent was the day Joel burst into tears at dinner because Luke had taken more salad than he had on his plate. That was a heavenly moment. My kids and granddaughter will happily eat raw vegetables as snacks (broccoli, cabbage, peas, carrots), vegetable soups for lunch or dinner (pumpkin, potato, vegetable), and green smoothies (apples, lemons, limes and raw spinach/silverbeet/kale blended).

People often ask me what my secret is.

Getting started

For me, it started out with necessity and then it became a healthy habit. When I started raising children I was barely 21 and I was earning very little money. I was also determined to heal from my history of asthma, hay fever, skin, bowel and digestive problems and was 100 per cent committed

to good nutrition (I succeeded and haven’t been sick since!). All we ate were healthy foods. We made everything fresh and ate what there was. It was a case of “here is breakfast” and if there was any “I don’t want it” then I would just say “ok, you are obviously not hungry. I will leave it here on the table and when you are hungry you can eat it later”.

They always came back and ate it.

YOU have to lead the way

As the parent, you inspire your kids more than anyone else ever will. You cannot eat junk foods and expect your kids to eat healthy foods. They follow what you do – not what you say. The key here is your headspace. If you want your kids to eat better, then you have to eat better. It starts and ends with you and what you are modelling to them every day.

Be prepared and control your environment

You control 80 per cent of what your kids eat so what you eat at home is what they will eat at home. What you buy at the supermarket is what

they will eat the most of. Babies fed home-cooked food are more likely to eat fruit and vegetables when they are older. Infants weaned onto homemade meals develop a taste for what is good for them by the age of seven.

Kids will not starve themselves

If your kids refuse good food, don’t worry. This is the oldest trick in the book for kids. Playing into the anxieties of their parents’ worries about them eating. Relax. Do not let your kids fool you into thinking they will starve themselves. Often we tend to offer too much choice rather than saying, “if you are hungry then you will eat this nourishing food that I have made for you”. Kids behave into the environment they are allowed to.

All kids are strong-willed and they all want you to lead the way for them. You are the boss, not them. A great way to do it is to offer them three choices for breakfast, all of which are things you would be happy for them to eat. Then they choose and feel great that they get to choose.

Packaged extruded sugary cereal is simply not one of the choices.

Tips

1. Be prepared and control your environment. If there is only good food at home, then that is all there is to eat when they are hungry.

2. Educate them. Around 93 per cent of kids growing vegetables at home or school will eat them and eat better if given the chance. All kids want to be healthy, strong, fast and fit. The more you educate your kids – the more they will want to eat well.

3. Walk the talk yourself. It always starts with the parents’ attitudes and behaviour towards food. Think wisely about the food you bring into your kitchen.

4. Make food fun – inspire them with humour and passion. Once, I got really excited about cabbage and was crunching loudly in my youngest boy’s ears. The kids loved this and we were all in hysterics.

They have loved raw cabbage ever since! Veggie ‘face’ platters are another great idea. Get creative!

5. The 80-20 rule is the one to follow. Ensure they eat well for breakfast, lunch and dinner and you have done your job as a parent.

The most important thing of all?

Create regular, healthy plant-based meals that you love for you and your kids. This will rub off on them and give them a deep appreciation of healthy eating longterm and that healthy food is delicious!

Jason Shon Bennett is a Kiwi health researcher, speaker and author. He’s in his early 50s, a proud father of four and grandfather of one, and his new book Feel Great & Live Longer is out now.

40 Summer / 2018

F OO D

Barbecue BLISS

BRYDON HELLER introduces

us to a tasty new range that offers a healthier approach to our Kiwi summer barbecues.

S

ummer is here! And that means more time eating outdoors, meat on the barbecue and picnics at the beach! Long summer days out and about enjoying our family adventures, for many of us, means more ice creams, fish and chips and food on the run.

To make the most of summer fun, we all want our families to stay healthy and full of good, nutritious food. And for many modern families, that means cutting down on our meat intake and pumping up the veges!

Well – just in time for barbecue season – Hellers is now offering a delicious new range of sausages, burgers and meatballs, perfect for the outdoor grill but secretly packed with 28-34 per cent vegetables. As we know, less meat and more vegetables means better wellbeing for everyone.

Known for their focus on fantastic flavour and texture, the new Hellers range is more ‘flexitarian’ than vegetarian. “It’s a nice way for parents to reduce meat intake and get vegetables into the kids, which is important,” says Brydon. “But first and foremost, they’ve got to taste great!” Packed with delicious flavour-blends, carefully chosen vegetables and premium quality lean mince, Hellers new range will satisfy any barbecue lover.

There are six mouth-watering options: Sunday Roast Chicken sausages; Miso Beef & Black Rice burgers; Super Greens & Pork sausages;

Beef, Beetroot and Lentil burgers and sausages; and Asian Pork meatballs. “Dad wouldn’t be disappointed either if he grabs the wrong one off the BBQ,” says Brydon.

Ideal for a quick meal after a swim, easy to pack for your day trips, and the perfect thing to take to a potluck with friends – you’ll know your kids are getting the power-pack of protein and energy they need for active summer days, with all the added benefits of vegetables to boot! hellers.co.nz

Introducing Hellers tasty new meat and veg Flexitari-yum range.

Superfood packed with sensational flavour pairings.

Combining everyday BBQ favourites with leaner meat and 28-34% vegetables and superfoods.

@HellersNZ

Summer / 2018

41

Fun Zone

KIDS’ time

ACTIVITIES AND colouring-in FOR ALL AGES

ParamountNZ /ParamountNZ

z ParamountPictures.co.n

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Includes: A bluetooth

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Spot 10 differences!

Help BUMBLEBEE through the maze to his car mode 42 Summer / 2018

giveaways

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These reusable cups from CUPPACOFFEECUP feature designs by NZ artists. Pohutukawa Kiwi by Janine Millington, Cat Adventures by Love Lis, and Rugby Road Code by Glenn Jones. They’re NZ-made, BPA-free, and 100 per cent recyclable!

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Summer / 2018

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43

CHRISTCHURCH M A RK ETPL ACE Rangiora New Life School An IntegratedNew Area School for New Rangiora Life School Entrants to Year 13 An Integrated Area School for New www.rnls.school.nz Entrants to Year 13 www.rnls.school.nz

CanterBury

New Zealand

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to all girls aged 5 to 18 Come join the fun and friendship at any of our nationwide locations

We wish Yr 13 leavers well at the end of 2018 forward ourat expected We and wishlook Yr 13 leaverstowell the end new of 1 and Yr 9 students in 2019. new 2018 Year and look forward to our expected Year 1 and Yr 9 onwards students in Applications for 2020 are2019. welcome.

Applications for 2020 onwards are welcome. admin@rnls.school.nz

girlsbrigade.nz E-mail: info@girlsbrigade.org.nz

admin@rnls.school.nz Stephen Walters, Principal Stephen Walters, Principal

We meet at the University Speech Disorders Unit every 1st and 3rd Thursday of the month at 7.30pm

Barry Hay

For More InForMatIon

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44 Summer / 2018

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Summer / 2018

45

In the spotlight

10 with

questions

Rhys Darby

In the spotlight this issue with Kineta Booker is international comedy star Rhys Darby, who has just released the first book in his new funny fiction series for children – The Top Secret Undercover Notes of Buttons McGinty.

Rhys is also Dad to two young boys.

Is the Buttons McGinty character written with your children in mind?

I have definitely written this book with my own boys in mind. My kids Theo (eight) and Finn (twelve) are very different lads, but they do share the same sense of adventure and humour.

Theo reminds me of myself as a kid, pretty much reluctant on the reading front and easily distracted by video games. I wanted to create a book that was funny and adventurous, something I would’ve picked up off the shelf as a young boy.

What surprised you most when you became a parent?

You can never plan for you children’s moods.

Some kids are easier than others but I have found the unpredictable nature of what a kid is thinking or feeling can really be quite something! They become real little humans very quick, especially once they start attending school.

How do you keep up with your boys?

It’s hard to prepare for the sheer amount of energy boys possess. It's actually quite staggering at times and I have found myself having to keep fit just so I can play with them anytime they want. I don't like saying I'm too tired, so yeah, keep in shape dads!

before the kids. I help with the school runs and both their mum Rosie and I are always there volunteering at the elementary charter school in which Theo attends. I’m lucky with my career in that it enables me to be around my kids a lot.

Of course, this is offset by the long periods of time that I can be away filming. When I’m home though, I’m very much in everybody’s faces. I love jumping on the bed with my youngest in the evening and reading with him.

Your top parenting tip?

Engage with your child’s interests. In my case with boys, it has been video games. They can become obsessed with certain things and they won’t stop talking about them. It’s better to get involved than to stand aside. That way you know what they’re talking about and can give advice on things that may get out of hand.

Worst parenting advice you’ve heard?

The worst advice is to take technology away from kids. It’s part of not only their life but modern life in general. We can’t be dinosaurs just because we don’t understand things. It’s up to all of us to embrace change and understand technology in order to keep some sort of control over how it is controlling our lives. Children are at the forefront of this.

How different are you now you’re a dad? Favourite family tradition?

I like to think I’m pretty much the same person I was before I had children, the only difference is now I have two very special people to worry about. That has forced me to take less risks and to plan excursions with my kids in mind. This is a good thing. As parents I think it’s healthy that we think more healthily – partying less and being more responsible adults. This can only be a better thing for the world. I care about the world more now too. I want this world to be a better place for my boys when they grow up.

What sort of dad are you?

I’m very hands-on. If I haven’t been working late on a film shoot I like to get up in the morning 46 Summer / 2018

We return to New Zealand at the end of each year. We do this to spend Christmas and New Year’s celebrations with our extended mix of friends and family. If we’re lucky we get to enjoy a bit of that classic Kiwi summer weather as well!

What social media advice do you have for parents?

Keep up with the play on social media. Once your child reaches the age of 10 they’re going to want to engage on Instagram. It’s a must that you let this happen but monitor it from your devices as well!

I’ve found with my 12, going on 13-year-old that there’s not much interest in Twitter and even less in Facebook. Those are ‘old persons’ platforms.

The thing you enjoy most in everyday life with your family?

My favourite time with my family would have to be vacation. I love exploring new places with my kids and Rosie is masterful at organising an eventful, amazing time.

A shared experience is the best experience!

The Top Secret Undercover Notes of Buttons McGinty

by Rhys Darby, published by Scholastic $16

BOOK REVIEW Reviewed by

Zia Knight-Baré, age 7 Rhys Darby’s The Top Secret Undercover Notes of Buttons McGinty is a book about a boy who is sent off to a school and there’s a lot of weird stuff going on there. Like they have to wear a special hat around the school, and if they leave the school the hat will beep and someone will come and get them. He says in his notebook that his parents are missing, and at school he only has one friend called Silky. Buttons McGinty keeps seeing this symbol with a snake and an egg on it and he spends a lot of time trying to figure out what it means. He tries to escape the school, and he actually does it. He ends up in the woods, and finds a cottage with an owl living in it. The story is a little silly, funny and is a good story for girls and boys.

If you know a young person who’d like to be part of our book reviewing team, please email kineta@27publishers.co.nz

waiting to meet you!

Visit Santa today and receive a FREE book* Visit northlands.co.nz to find out more.

*While stocks last. Terms and conditions apply. Limit one per customer.

Summer / 2018

47