Family Times - Christchurch - Winter 2012

Winter Issue 2012

ISSN 1176 7944

CHRISTCHURCH

Doing the best you can Should kids be pushed to be the best or to have fun?

Getting the best out of boys Handy hints for parenting sons

 2012 Olympic Games!

NZ Olympians talk about what it takes to get to the top

Win Win Win Competitions, giveaways and vouchers

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inside this issue

Contents

6

Winter 2012

26 Baby & Toddler

Winter home heating tips to keep baby safe and warm.

Comment 18 Kids’ View

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We ask children if they do things to be the best or for fun.

Special features 27 Help is at hand

Whatever issue or dilemma you are facing, there are excellent support agencies just waiting to help. Check out our special listing of help agencies in your area.

28 Destination West Coast

Explore all that the Wild West has to offer this winter.

30 Let’s go North Otago!

Features 4 How to say “no”

You don’t always have to say “yes”

Handy hints for parenting sons from education consultant Joseph Driessen.

5 Getting the best out of boys

6 Doing the best you can

Simple food combinations can prolong energy and keep kids’ brains eager to learn.

10 Kids taking more responsibility

Doing chores teaches lifelong habits.

11 Game on

15 Family finances

Protect your family against the unexpected.

16 The vege patch

New Zealand Gardener of the Year Alan Jones discusses the benefits of having a worm farm, and how to make one.

Should kids be pushed to be the best or to have fun?

Online billing and kids – how to prevent costly downloads.

17 Craft corner

We speak with Sophie Pascoe, Tim Carswell and Barbara Kendall about how to get to the top.

24 Fun in the snow

8 The importance of breakfast

9 Keeping kids’ energy levels constant

Marvel at the landscape and natural attractions of North Otago.

Create healthy habits with a delicious – and healthy – start to the day.

12 2012 OIympic Games

About Us Publisher Robyn Willis Design & Production Moody Shokry Advert Production Target Press Production Office Editor Vanessa O’Brien Assistant editor Rachel Taniwha Website editor Fiona Smith Contributing Writers Karen Theobald, Alan Jones, Wayne Webb Leigh Elder, Joseph Driessen, Sarah Chisnall Advertising Sales Caren Constable Shona Robb Nicky Barnett Jane Hunter Tina Barriball Katrina Wright Office Manager Raelyn hay Office Assistant Jackie Pithie

Explore your creative side with mug painting.

A quick step guide to enjoying the slopes with your kids.

Resource information 8 School Term Dates 20 Calendar of events 21 Holiday programmes 22 Entertainment 27 After school 31 Marketplace

Reach us at: Family Publishers (NZ) P.O. Box 36-004, Christchurch 8146, NZ Ph. 03-355-9186 0800285 510 Fax: 03 3559 183 Mobile. 0274-359-414 admin@familytimes.co.nz www.familytimes.co.nz

-----------------------------------Distribution Printed and distributed quarterly approximately two weeks before each major school holiday.

43,092 distributed through early childhood centres, primary and intermediate schools, Christchurch City Council offices, recreational facilities, libraries and service centres, selected medical and midwifery premises and McDonalds restaurants.The opinions expressed in this publication are not those of the publisher unless indicated otherwise. No part of this publication may be reprinted without the expressed written permission of the publisher.

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

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3

From the editor Nobody dreams of growing up and being average. At least not anybody I know.

Stop, pause and think before responding, giving you time and space to consider your response. If you’d like more time before answering, say you’ll need to get back to them at an agreed time.

B

ut in a society that applauds achievement rather than effort, I have to wonder if our measure of success has become just a little tainted. Is every little ripper rugby player only a hero if he grows up to be an All Black? Is every book-weary student only as good as her last class-topping test?

I hear you all gasping a resounding and shocked “no”!

Yet, that’s the message we get so many times from society. We heap accolades on people who reach their goals of fame or fortune, but forget – or even ridicule - those who may have tried equally as hard and failed.

So, in the quest to ensure their children keep mediocrity at bay, some parents push their kids to extremes. Busy time tables, high pressure, rewards for achievement. Some may try to live vicariously through their children, and others may subscribe to Amy Chua’s Battle Hymn of the Tiger Mother philosophy of not accepting anything less than the best from their children.

On the other hand, do overly libertarian parents disadvantage their children by not instilling a need to succeed? A focus on fun is great to a point, but how effective is it when kids grow up and embark on their corporate ladder climb? I recently read this in a newsletter printed out for teenage school kids: “Your school may be “outcome-based,” but life isn’t. In some schools, you’re given as many tries as you want to get the answer right.

Standards are set low enough so everyone can meet them. This, of course, bears no

resemblance to anything in real life - as you will soon find out.”

I agree completely.

So, is there a happy equilibrium? This edition Family Times’ assistant editor Rachel Taniwha talks with the experts about the effects that both these parenting strategies have on children, and how to best put your kids on the path to success in life. Check out our main feature on “doing the best you can” for some great insight into raising healthy and thriving kids.

Also in this issue, John Cowan from The Parenting Place looks at how to encourage responsibility in kids and what discipline is really about. Of course we also have all our regular features, competitions and giveaways, so start turning the pages and most of all: Enjoy!

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How to say “No” without guilt or explanation

Burnside Cashmere

Ph 358 7917 Ph 332 2033

Remember less is more – respond with a succinct statement, then stop talking. We’re often uncomfortable with silence and it’s common to feel the need to fill silence with explanations justifying our decisions. Offer an explanation only if necessary.

If you are worried about hurting someone’s feelings or letting them down, say “no” with empathy and understanding, acknowledging your regret at being unable to say “yes” this time. Let them down gently, but remain firm in your decision.

If someone won’t take “no” for an answer or pressures you to change your decision, use the broken record technique. This simply involves repeating your statement or response until the other person accepts your decision.

If they persist, try distracting them by changing the topic of conversation. Ask open questions, turning the focus back on them or perhaps end the conversation by saying you have to go.

If speaking on the telephone, try holding your hand up when saying “no”. This action is a powerful visual aid. It helps you feel strong and assertive, even though you may feel nervous or anxious on the inside.

Practise saying “no” at home or in front of a mirror.

Use visual reminders and positive affirmations, such as “I say “no” without guilt

or explanation” or “I have strong boundaries between work and family life”. Write these down and display in your diary, personal organiser, calendar or fridge.

Remember it’s okay to say “no”. If helpful, write down and acknowledge any feelings of guilt, then take action, let them go and move on.

When making a decision, trust your intuition and common sense.

By Karyn Riley Karyn Riley is a Christchurch-based women’s wellbeing specialist and author of “How to Keep the YOU in Mum”, inspirational speaker, writer and mother of two. For more information visit www.rileylife.co.nz.

Getting the best out of boys All of us as parents do our very best to be the best parent we can be, and most of us do a pretty good job.

I

t is worthwhile however to reflect about what research has to tell us about effective parenting for boys.

Being authoritative

An authoritative parent is one who provides clear positive leadership and who commands respect from their son.

Authoritative parenting involves setting clear goals for your family; involving your children and listening to their point of view, providing help and guidance so that the children can meet their obligations, and loving them not as a friend but as a parent.

Boys thrive when they feel their parents are positive leaders who help them and guide them but expect them to be accountable.

Authoritative parental leadership promotes loyalty and cooperation in boys.

Providing structure

Many boys thrive when they live in a structured household. This means the household is well organised and predictable, with clear routines and rules that all members abide by. Basically it’s running a tight ship while still allowing the children freedom within structure. Boys thrive when they know what to expect and where they stand. It gives a strong sense of security, which makes them cooperative.

Staying calm and using fewer words

Boys have just as many emotions as girls, but they process them in a different way.

They are more inclined to want to take action rather than to speak and they prefer to go away and think about something rather than engage in a big verbal battle about it.

When parents use emotions and words to try and prevail upon their sons often their boys shut down or their aggression is activated.

Instead, parents should stay very calm and use brief language and allow their sons time and space to process the message.

Using consequences for accountability

Boys need to learn to become accountable for their actions and they need to be taught to keep their word and agreements and to follow the rules of the household. When they try and test the boundaries and prevail against the parent they should be held to account with consequences rather than words and emotions.

Boys respect fairness but despise adults who do not follow through.

Channelling physical energy and risk taking

Many boys have very physical energy levels as well as the need to take risks, and the traditional way to channel this energy is through sport, outdoor adventures and the martial arts. Some parents have lost sight of this, and allow their son to become addicted to computer games instead. These parents need to realise that for many boys activities like play-wrestling, games and sport are essential

ingredients for growing up into fine young men.

Providing male role models

Many boys live in a very unbalanced and unnatural world without the guidance and example of adult men. Men do things differently and have a different take on life, and boys desperately need their guidance, love and support. When this is lacking, many boys become highly insecure, oppositional and frantically macho. These boys need male mentors, and the best parents go out of their way to provide for this. They enlist the help of the boys’ father, grandfathers and uncles. They enrol boys into sports with male coaches. They tell stories about male heroes and make boys feel good about being a man. Boys with male role models become centred and secure.

Linking school with the world of work

Part of the unnatural environment of many boys is that they don’t see adult men working.

Boys are surrounded by working women both at home and at school, but deep down they are

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searching for their own place in society.

Many boys rebel against school because they do not see the link between school and the work they will do is adult men. Wise parents go out of their way to explain to their sons how school might lead into possible areas of work, and take their son to building sites, universities, workshops and polytechnics to show them the pathways that are available to them. Once boys see the learning pathway, they feel school is relevant and their resistance to school disappears.

We all want to be the best parents we can be.

For many of us, however it pays to think more deeply about what kind of parents our children actually need us to be. This applies very much to boys who live in a modern society that does not cater for many of their deepest needs and who need parents who will provide a more balanced environment for them.

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

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feature story

Doing the best you can We’ve all come across it at some stage – the proud parent with the academically gifted child or the sporting protégé.

I

t’s often the result of many hours of hard work, dedication and encouragement from their parents.

He says that children’s sport needs to be structured around these needs rather than to stress winning as the most critical factor.

But what about the children who do not win or get the top marks in school? Perhaps they tried just as hard, and their parents are just as proud.

“Parents need to realise that sports are good for kids even if they do not win. This is not to say that children should not be encouraged to win or be the best that they can be in any particular game. After all, a sporting contest is always about winning and losing – even those played in the back-yard. But the emphasis of coaches and parents should be about giving the kids the things they both need and desire from sport: fun, social contact, skills. In this way they will be encouraged to stay in sport and for some, develop an aspiration and determination to become very good. The key is that this aspiration is the child’s not his or her parents’ aspiration for them.”

The question is, should results be measured in terms of a grade, a win or loss, or by whether children are having fun? Should parents applaud their children’s efforts no matter how well they perform or push their children hard to excel and to be the best at what they do?

We’re well aware of the pressure to excel in sport as New Zealanders. Take the All Blacks for example: they won the Rugby World Cup, but the public pressure to succeed was so intense that there was even a Facebook page dedicated to a riot on the streets if they lost.

What message does this give children? Is it that losing is to be avoided at all costs, or else they face losing the love of their parents - or on a larger scale - the wrath of a nation?

On the other hand though, if children aren’t encouraged to try to be the best, does it result in an underachiever, someone who never really gets ahead in life?

Sport NZ community sport and recreation general manager John Reid says research shows that for young children in particular, winning ranks below many other aspects of the sport experience. “Aspects like having fun, being with and making friends and getting better (skills) rank ahead of winning in terms of outcomes desired by children.”

Reid says that parents’ greatest gift to children who aspire to be good is to encourage and support them playing informally with other kids and by themselves. Many worldwide examples exist of elite athletes being produced almost entirely through informal play without formal coaching or competition structures – they tend to be highly skilled, highly motivated, and highly spontaneous and creative in their sport and with appropriate formal tuition and support later in their youth years, they become some of the best performing elite athletes in the world.

“In an overall sense we are encouraging parents to just let the kids play – play at home, play at school, play at practice and play in competition.”

The Parenting Place creative producer John Cowan says he remembers parents on the

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feature story “If children catch our passion for a sport, a career or a cause, then we don’t have to push them so hard – their own passion will do all the pushing.” John Cowan, creative producer, The Parenting Place.” sideline as he watched his son play sport.

Most just loved the idea that their boys were out there having some fun, but some parents withdrew their kids from the team to find another club that would give their son a better chance of winning trophies. “Maybe without parents like that, we probably wouldn’t have the All Blacks, or many top level athletes at all.

But I also know that some of those parents had kids who resented the pressure and dropped out of the sport as soon as they could.”

He says he winces when he sees parents push children too hard, “But in saying that, I grieve when I see kids wasting their potential because parents failed to give them selfdiscipline and motivation.” He says finding a reasonable middle ground is a bit harder than it seems, and in any group of parents you will find a range of practices.

Cowan refers to Amy Chua, an American woman raised by Philippine-born Chinese parents. Chua’s bestselling book, Battle Hymn of the Tiger Mother, created a huge stir when it was published in 2011. She treated her girls as her own parents had treated her: “They demanded total respect and were very tough with my three younger sisters and me. We got in trouble for A minuses, had to drill math and piano every day, no sleepovers, no boyfriends.”

She threatened to destroy her daughters’ toys if they underperformed, she did not accept her four-year-old daughter’s handmade birthday card because it wasn’t good enough and she

made them work very, very hard.

While Cowan is appalled by her harsh, supertough methods, he cannot deny that she gets results. Chua herself is a law professor at Yale, and her daughters’ are turning out as spectacular achievers. But at what cost?

“I don’t believe you need to drive children super hard to get top results,” says Cowan.

Each week he interviews top achievers in sports, politics, business or entertainment on the radio (Newstalk ZB, 8-9pm Sundays) about their lives. “Invariably, they credit their parents with having a powerful influence on the course of their lives but, as far as I can recall, only one of the 350-odd guests I’ve interviewed had what you could call a “tiger mother”. These leaders weren’t driven to success, but inspired by their parents’ example and heart.

“I think this model is a far more natural way of boosting our children to success. If children catch our passion for a sport, a career or a cause, then we don’t have to push them so hard – their own passion will do all the pushing.”

New Zealand Association of Gifted Children president and educational psychologist Rose Blackett says parents should celebrate and reward effort and task commitment over achievement. “Effort is what is likely to set us up to positively face later challenges in life -academic and personal.”

She says we need to strive to achieve, however individuals have variable levels of achievement. A task that requires great effort for one child may be simplistic for another.

“An issue I have faced when working with children is that within our school system we chronologically group children. However within a class of six-year-olds you are likely to have a heterogeneous group. One child may be reading Lord of the Rings for example, and another struggling to sound out and recognise

letters. The effort a child puts into a task, at their individual level, needs to be considered not the achievement.”

She says parents need to celebrate the journey (effort) not the destination (achievement). “Some children measure themselves on their achievements and if they get it wrong, view themselves as a failure.”

She refers to a child who got the top mark in New Zealand on a music exam when they were quite young. As a teen they viewed themselves a failure as they were never able to obtain the top mark in New Zealand again.

“These children can set unrealistically high expectations for themselves.”

“A six-year-old who gets frustrated because their writing is not as neat as the teacher’s for example... often does not consider the years of writing practice the teacher has had, or that their fine motor skills are still developing.

“Parents’ greatest gift to children who aspire to be good is to encourage and support them playing informally with other kids and by themselves.” John Reid, general manager, community Sport and Recreation at Sport NZ general manager.”

Frustration can then show itself in many forms such as outward negative behaviours or inward withdrawal.”

Blackett says children are individuals; there is no one right formula. Children will react and interact with the environment they are in and the people within that environment.

“We cannot change the child, merely the environment we set up for our children.”

By Rachel Taniwha

Tips for parents – gaining the best from your child •

•

•

• •

Realise that if a child undertakes an activity and is having fun and makes friends, they are more likely to stick to it and want to try harder.

Pressure and focus on winning or being the best can lead to the child giving up, or developing negative behaviours, low selfesteem or inward withdrawal.

•

Remember that many elite athletes have been produced almost entirely through informal play without formal coaching or competition in their younger years.

Many top achievers say they weren’t “driven” to succeed, but were inspired by their parents’ example – be a positive influence.

Allow children to catch your passion.

Celebrate and reward effort over achievement. Ensure children have a realistic view of their achievements. Adjust their perceptions of success if their goals are set so high that they could be unobtainable.

•

Realise you cannot change the child, only the environment we as parents set.

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Energise kids with a healthy breakfast Children who eat breakfast each day may have an advantage when it comes to learning. So why not go beyond sharpening their pencils to sharpening their minds by making a balanced breakfast a habit in your home?

Studies show that children can concentrate much better after they have had a good breakfast, thus maximising their chances of achieving well at school.

Childhood and teenage years are years of growth and development, in which they need the best of nutrients in order that maximum bone strength is achieved, teeth are formed, and growth is realised.

Breakfast should lay the cornerstone of the daily food intake during this time. You can teach your children how to build a balanced breakfast, and set them up with a good habit for life.

A little planning the night before can go a long way when you’re in a rush to get out the door in the morning.

Parents can try to ensure that breakfast cereals, fresh milk and fruit are available in the kitchen every morning.

• Breakfast can be semi-prepared the night

before (bowls laid out for children, etc).

Quick-oats can be used to make porridge in as little time as possible.

• Smoothies can be prepared the evening before and kept in the fridge overnight. course, some kids simply don’t have an Breakfast should consist of: Of appetite first thing in the morning. In cases like Something filling e.g. breakfast cereal – this, focus on a mid-morning snack providing porridge, grain-based products, muesli or the nutrition they’ve missed out on at breakfast wholegrain, high fibre breads time. A sandwich, fruit bread, bun, fruit or

+ yoghurt at break time in school can help make Something lasting e.g. milk, yoghurt, eggs, up for a missed breakfast. baked beans Preparing colourful, interesting breakfasts can

+ help inspire little tummies. Try Weetbix with Some colour e.g. fruit, chopped raw apple or canned peaches, banana, soaked prunes, dried sliced peaches, yoghurt and milk - it looks good and tastes yummy. How about a bowl of warm sultanas, raisins, avocado, tomatoes

+ porridge with raisins and nuts sprinkled on top A drink water or milk with a little brown sugar or honey?

Poached eggs on toast are a cheap and tasty Some common reasons breakfast cooked in less than five minutes. for skipping breakfast in Try making the morning breakfast meal a family children and teens are: affair with everyone eating together, and be • Not having enough time. sure to set a good example by starting your day • Being too tired to bother.

• Wanting to spend the extra time dozing with a balanced breakfast too. Your children will be much more likely to make breakfast a in bed.

• Not having readily available breakfast foods healthy habit if you sit down to enjoy breakfast with them as often as possible. in the house.

At a household level, being well-organised can By Janne Pasco, Community & Public Health community nutrition advisor, Christchurch. knock most of these excuses on the head.

•

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Keeping kids’ energy levels constant All parents and their kids need a certain amount of glucose each day to provide energy. Not enough and you will be tired and listless. Too much will mean the excess is stored as fat.

G

lucose overloading is one of the key factors driving the obesity and type 2 diabetes epidemics.

Food and drink provide the fuel that gives us energy and keeps all our bodies’ processes functioning. All food and drink is largely made up of protein, fat and carbohydrate.

The balance is water, small amounts of vitamins and minerals and artificial additives in processed food.

Protein performs essential functions like building and sustaining muscle and improving immunity. Fats contain essential fatty acids that promote growth, a healthy skin, absorption of vitamins and help to regulate body temperature. Carbohydrates provide us with glucose for energy.

Ask any nutritionist or dietician around the world what this fuel mix should be, and on average, they will come up with a mix of 30 per cent protein, 30% fat and 40% carbohydrate.

Now, if you tinker with this mix you are asking for trouble.

“The trick to having constant energy levels is to include a good mix of protein, fat and carbohydrate in every meal and snack.”

In our experience, we find there is a general reluctance to eat fat, and we are well catered for here by the incredible range of low-fat

foods on offer. In fact, most people do not eat anywhere near the right amount of fat. In our experience, this percentage is often as low as 5-10% of total energy intake.

Protein foods like meat, fish and eggs are the most sustaining, and it would be difficult to eat more than the recommended 30%.

So, by default, we generally eat too much carbohydrate type food. Now, here’s the important bit - carbohydrate makes the glucose that provides us with energy, and too much glucose means the excess is stored as fat.

At the same time, adults and growing kids need a regular consumption of glucose providing energy to keep us going.

Fortunately, the solution to getting this critical formula right is very simple. The trick to having constant energy levels is to include a good mix of protein, fat and carbohydrate in every meal and snack.

Remember that this is not an exact science and the suggested 30/30/40 mix is only a guide and will vary according to your energy requirements at any one time. For example, the Silver Fern netballers gulp down fast-digesting glucose producers like jelly babies after a game to boost their flagging energy levels.

Tips and options

“Adults and growing kids need a regular consumption of glucose providing energy to keep us going.”

Breakfast • Most cereals contain high levels

of glucose-producing processed carbohydrate - mix with combinations of rolled oats, nuts, seeds and yoghurt Porridge Change to a dense multigrain bread Eggs or baked beans

• • • Lunch • Grain bread sandwiches with good • • • • •

protein content, e.g. canned fish, ham, chicken, cheese and egg Insulated lunch bags are great for including food like yoghurt and cottage cheese Add fruit and nuts Soup Chopped up raw vegetables like carrots and celery Left-overs from dinner, e.g. chicken and vegetables

Dinner • Good chunk of protein (meat, fish,

seafood), small portions of rice, pasta, potato, parsnip or kumara. Lots of other vegetables

Snacks • Nut bars, fruit with a few nuts/seeds,

yoghurt, rip-off-lids of canned fish or baked beans, boiled eggs, raw carrots, celery. Wholegrain snack biscuits, e.g.

Arnotts’ Lunch Slices with toppings like cheese slices, hummus, cottage cheese, pickle and tomato.

Apart from after intensive exercise, to prevent energy lows avoid eating processed, simple carbohydrate food and drink on its own, e.g. energy drinks, fruit juice, cakes, scones, white bread products and milk chocolate (go for dark). Kids must have their treats like some of these listed above, and the odd sweet or biscuit are fine as long as they are all combined with sustaining food.

Eating sustaining meals and snacks provide these great benefits:

• • • •

Keeps you fuller for longer Having higher energy levels Normal blood-sugar levels Sustaining food helps regulate portion sizes • It’s not an exact science and easy to maintain

By Leigh Elder, Eat For Keeps Eat For Keeps have helped thousands of people maintain a healthy weight and life by using these simple concepts. Visit www.eatforkeeps.com for lots of free tips and ideas.

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9

Kids taking more responsibility Responsibility means being a self-starter when it comes to looking after yourself and others.

useful response would be to go in there and say something like, “Oh dear, you’ve got a mess, but you’re a clever kid, here’s a sponge, here’s a mop, you have a go at cleaning it up. I’ll come back and see how you’re getting along.”

esponsibility is also the idea that you have yourself under control, reliably doing what you should do (e.g. chores and study) and not doing what you shouldn’t. It is a skill and an attitude, and it needs to be taught to children.

It is something that also takes maturity, so we should expect our children to take a while to master it.

Note: “You’ve got a mess”. It’s amazing how many kids think that the mess is your problem, but you give them ownership of it. And you are also giving her the tools to solve her problem.

Now, she probably won’t enjoy cleaning up, and you know that you could do the job in a tenth of the time yourself, and even when she is finished you’ll have to do the whole job over again properly anyway, but that child will be learning some important things about life.

They’ve learnt to take ownership of a problem, and they’re learning that problems are not for running away from; problems are for solving.

“Hmmm… I’ve got a problem. It’s my problem, but I can solve it. There are no problems so big that they can’t be solved.” That is responsibility.

Some people might not call that discipline because it did not involve yelling or penalties, but that is exactly what I think discipline is.

R

Chores are a key area where kids learn responsibility. I am sure we all wonder if it is worth the effort to get children to do jobs that we could do ourselves twice as well in half the time. Getting children to do chores certainly is neither cheap labour nor punishment for being young: the main goal is teaching responsibility.

The other key way to teach responsibility is through discipline. “Discipline” is one of those weasel-words that can leave my mouth meaning one thing but can arrive in someone else’s ear meaning something different. My definition of discipline is the training we give our children to help them think and make better decisions in the future. One of the best outcomes of good discipline is children taking ownership of their own problems and responsibilities.

Here is an example of how this type of discipline might work: imagine a little girl, she goes to the fridge, pulls out the plastic juice jug and drops it on the floor and the mess goes everywhere. Now, a grumpier version of me would go in there and go ballistic. “Get out of here while I clean up this mess!” But a more

Sadly, all of our kids will have adult-sized problems later in life much bigger than spilt juice jugs. But with a responsible attitude, coupled with a belief in their ability to solve problems, they won’t wilt or run away – they will roll up their sleeves and get stuck in.

Responsibility like that is a wonderful legacy to give our children.

By John Cowan, creative producer at The Parenting Place

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certainty in uncertain times Primary schooling in an emotionally and physically safe environment gives parents the confidence of educational stability and nurturing in these challenging times.

We welcome you to visit our junior school and to view our primary years programme in action within the intimate and caring environment that St Margaret's has offerred for 100 years.

JUNIOR, MIDDLE & SENIOR SCHOOL For any enquiries please contact Tina Cartwright on 03 353 2563 12 Winchester St | Merivale | Christchurch | www.stmargarets.school.nz 10 www.familytimes.co.nz

St Margaret’s College Junior School -certainty in uncertain times St Margaret’s College head of junior school Paula Sheldon says small class sizes allow teachers to provide quality feedback and information to children. “We take a holistic approach to our girls’ education based on our Anglican traditional values and nurture them with a high level of pastoral care. We have a big sister – little sister mentoring programme that runs through the entire school.”

The junior school (years 1 – 6) enables girls to develop into confident, happy children equipped with skills for a smooth transition to year seven. The girls benefit from access to specialist teachers and facilities.

The middle school (years 7 – 10) runs a four-year programme starting in year seven. The first year’s theme is “independence” in all the girls do, followed by the theme of “initiative” in year eight. For students going into year nine the transition is seamless. The expectation of teachers is known as the girls have already had them as specialist teachers. Years nine and 10 focus on “new learning” and “leadership.”

“We offer academic and emotional certainty in these uncertain times and focus on the emotional and pastoral care of each girl while offering her an individual academic programme whether it is part of learning support or our future scholars programme,” says principal Gillian Simpson.

For more information contact Tina Cartwright, 03-353-2563 or tina.c@stmargarets.school.nz.

Big birthday savings at Bedworld Head to Bedworld’s birthday sale for huge savings in-store.

Bedworld focuses on New Zealand made products from Christchurch and throughout New Zealand. It’s open seven days a week, with a lot variety in single and king single beds, bunks, and trundle beds. Monday – Friday, 9am-5.30pm, Saturday and Sunday 10am – 4pm, 242 Ferry Road (along from AMI stadium), phone 377-8887. Visit www. bedworld.co.nz.

Online payments and kids - an unexpected problem I recently had a startling wake-up call on the security of online devices.

L

et’s set the scene: I work in an online field, at a gaming company that has adults and children among its members. I am also responsible for approving refunds there. I have been online for over a decade-and-a-half and am very technology savvy.

However, despite all these things, one day in my inbox I got a receipt for $65 I had spent online. Knowing I hadn’t spent that amount on my Google Wallet account recently I assumed that I had been scammed or phished (had my identity compromised and abused online) – both things I would have thought near to impossible for me.

The truth was much worse. I had been very lax in the security of my Android Tablet and had not gotten around to setting the security for purchases properly.

My six-year-old son had been playing a few games on it: games I had personally vetted and approved and had no chat or connection to other players. I was not paying too much attention when he asked if he could buy more coins in the game. I said no, but the alarm bells should have rung then. I was complacent and did not think to check the purchasing settings.

Long story short, when I checked the account, $65 was just scratching the surface; he had racked up $261.16 in charges in two weeks, the bulk of which was in the last three days.

What can you do to prevent this?

Always secure your payment options. Often

devices and online accounts store credit card payment details for convenience, but convenience also carries risk. You can require a password for every purchase made. You can set this in your device regardless of whether it’s a tablet, IPhone or Android phone.

Talk to your children about real money and game money; have them appreciate that even in a game they should check with their parents before buying anything. An ounce of prevention and education can set good habits early on.

Disable in-game purchases. Some apps and programmes have this setting built in for this very reason, so if it’s available and you want to avoid unnecessary cost then choose and activate this option.

You can elect to enter your credit card details for every purchase and not have them saved in between purchases. This is labour intensive but the safest way to secure payments short of never buying anything online.

Too late, money has been spent unwittingly – now what do I do?

The very first thing you should do is secure your device and payment details. Immediately, before you even think of trying to get the money back, accept your responsibility for securing your device first and foremost.

If you have spent a small amount then it’s sometimes a valuable lesson to accept the loss and ensure it never happens again.

For larger amounts you should write to the company that the payment has been made to. Explain the situation honestly and do not threaten them. Ninety nine times out of 100 it’s your fault and they do not have to fix your

problems for you.

Contact your credit card company as a last resort.

You can generally explain the situation to your credit card company and they can reverse the charges and credit you the amount back eventually.

However this often can cost both you and the vendor handling fees.

What happened to the $261.16?

Needless to say I nearly had a heart attack but promptly set about securing my device and then contacted the companies to see if I could reverse these payments. One of the companies held the line and stated that, as there are plenty of warnings when paying, they were not responsible. The other companies involved were much more understanding and I got the bulk of my money back. In fact I was only out the $65 I had originally noted.

The balance was returned to me with kindness and understanding, which did little to lessen my embarrassment or the trouble I got into with my wife for not preventing this.

By Wayne Webb Webb is a community services manager for SmallWorlds - an online gaming site.

www.familytimes.co.nz

11

london 2012

Olympic glory – NZ’s best talk about what it takes It’s the ultimate goal for any athlete – the prestige and honour to make it to the Olympic Games.

you’ve had to overcome to make it this far?

Two different stages - when I was younger it was the expectation I put on myself. I was tough on my performances; if I didn’t win, I beat myself up. When I was older it was the politics and administrators who didn’t believe in me because I was over 35.

F

rom 27 July to 12 August, billions of people worldwide will watch as the world’s best athletes from more than 204 countries compete in the 2012 London Olympics. Hours and hours of hard work, both physical and mental will be put to the test.

Advice for children wanting to be the best in sport/advice for parents?

Teach your kids values: The importance of dreams and the feeling of passion for something. Teach them how to plan, how to set goals, how to motivate themselves, how to deal with setbacks, how to love and how to persevere, how to laugh and how to cry, how to be loyal, how to care for the environment, how to be healthy. Sport is a great vehicle for learning all this, but as they play, acknowledge what they’ve learned, then they can apply it to all areas of their life.

Rachel Taniwha from Family Times spoke with several of New Zealand’s best current and former Olympians, and a current coach, about what it takes to make it to the top and their advice for helping kids to be the best.

Barbara Kendall Boardsailing 1992 Olympic gold medallist, 1996 Olympic silver medallist, 2000 Olympic bronze medallist. Finished fifth at 2004 Olympics and sixth at 2008 Olympics. She is the only New Zealand woman to compete in five Olympic Games.

How did you get involved in your sport?

I come from a sailing family. I was sailing at 10-days-old, and started competing when I was 12 in a small boat. At 16 I was windsurfing and the next 25 years were spent watering all the different disciplines. Because my older brother and sister were windsurfing it was a natural thing to do.

What role did you parents play?

They were the reason: All their passion for sailing was transferred to us kids.

When did you know you wanted to be the best?

I was born that way. I was competitive, determined and very focused from day one.

Who are your role models/ what inspires you?

My brother set the bench mark - if my brother can win an Olympic medal, so can I. I got my competitive edge from my dad, my grounded state from my mum, and the belief I could win from my brother and sister. Later in my career I got the grounded-ness from my husband and my belief from Janice McLennan (my performance coach) then inspiration from all sorts of mediums.

What is the biggest hurdle

For kids it is the dare of the dream. Most are too afraid to pursue the loftiest of dreams; most are too scared to put their emotions and whole being on the line, but if you don’t you may never reach your potential and when you do the stars are reachable.

Tim Carswell Cycling Current New Zealand track cycling coach, 1998 Commonwealth Games bronze medallist, competed in 1996 and 2000 Olympics.

How much of the athlete’s success is due to physical attributes, to mental attitude or plain hard work?

All the riders that we work with are very naturally talented and are identified as they

come through the junior under-19 age group.

They are then brought into the national training groups that help them develop other areas such as strength and conditioning, mental skills training, nutrition etc to make them capable of being truly world-class athletes. All of the riders put in a lot of hard work to make it to that level.

How do you keep the athletes focused?

The hard training is complemented by racing/ competition both on the road and track throughout the year. Most of this racing is chosen for the way it will motivate the riders and make it a bit more fun than just training all the time. In the New Zealand winter we race and train in either Europe or the USA.

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Need help to find help?

Stronger Canterbury

Call the Quake Support and Counselling Services Helpline

0800 777 846 12

www.familytimes.co.nz

McLeans Island Road, Christchurch (15 minutes from Christchurch Airport) Open 10am-5pm daily. Ph: 359 7109 Transport options: 0800 10 10 21 www.oranawildlifepark.co.nz

Feeling distressed and overwhelmed right now?

Talking can help.

If you, your family or friends need support call the Quake Support and Counselling Line – 0800 777 846 to be referred to free and confidential services.

We can help with your questions, give information, connect you with free counselling services or organisations that can offer you practical support, information or advice.

We will make sure you get the

RIGHT SERVICE at the RIGHT TIME

london 2012

Education means success at Kip McGrath

What percentage of the training is devoted to skill training, competition and psychology preparation?

Certain events require more skill or tactics than others and so this varies from individual to individual. This also has the flow-on effect to the quantity of racing each rider does. Mental skill training has become a bigger part of our programme in recent years and we have a specific sports psych that our athletes work with to facilitate this.

Tips for other coaches in getting the best from their athletes?

Try and make it fun. It can’t be fun all the time, but if there isn’t any fun in there at all the athletes will turn off pretty quickly.

Sophie Frances Pascoe Swimming 2008 Beijing Paralympics – gold medal 100m breaststroke, silver medal 100m butterfly, gold medal 200m individual medley. Shared gold medal for 100m backstroke. She is the youngest ever New Zealand medallist (aged 15 at the time).

How did you get involved in your sport?

I started swimming lessons at school, which then lead me to swim at the CCS Independence Games where I was spotted by two Paralympians, Graham Condon and Roly Crichton - the current coach who asked me to join QEII swim club.

What role did you parents

play?

They played a huge part in supporting me to achieve my goals. They took me to early morning trainings, motivated me on my down days and have just really become the backbone of what I do and I always want them to be proud parents.

When did you know you wanted to be the best?

At the age of 10 I told my grandfather before he passed that I wanted to win a gold medal for him at the 2008 Beijing Paralympics so that’s when I guess I really wanted to be the best and on top of the world.

Who are your role models/ what inspires you?

I would definitely have to say that my coach plays a huge role motivational-wise. Every day he is down there waiting for me to be the best I can be, he wants the same dream and goal as what I do. I believe our coach and athlete relationship inspires the both of us to put

everything we have into every training session and race.

What is the biggest hurdle you’ve had to overcome to make it this far?

Every day is a hurdle. To be the best athlete in the world in your discipline of sport you have to go outside of your comfort zone. The biggest hurdle for me though was getting over failure, from being on top of the world and then becoming second hurts and it’s a challenge in yourself to push through those hard times.

That’s where motivation has to take over.

Advice for children wanting to be the best in sport/advice for parents?

Believe in yourself and always push yourself to the limit to achieve your dreams and goals.

They can always come true if you work for them. Supportive family and friends are the best people to have around you when working towards those dreams and goals.

Christchurch parents have discovered that after-school tutoring can make a big difference to their children’s achievements.

“We are delighted that parents ring us at the end of the term to tell us they are pleased with the progress and improved confidence of their child,” says Merivale Kip McGrath Education Centre director Stuart Atkinson.

With nine Kip McGrath Centres in greater Christchurch, parents who believe their children could make better progress or need extra help or extension work have a centre close by. A free assessment can be arranged and parents can talk about their concerns with the director. An individual programme is put in place for each child.

Kip McGrath Centres cater for students from age five to year 10 in the essential subjects of maths, reading, spelling, and English, with senior secondary subjects also available for years 11, 12 and 13. Students attend the centre weekly, starting at any stage of the year, and continue for as many weeks as are needed.

Students are positive and enthusiastic about attending the centre, and the warm, supportive learning environment. With three-to-five students with one teacher, there is ample time for 1:1 tutoring.

Kip McGrath has expanded rapidly in New Zealand with more than 100 centres nationwide.

The nearest centre can be contacted on 0800 TUTORING (0800-888-674).

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Need help to recover from the earthquake?

Stronger Canterbury

To connect with the Earthquake Support Co-ordination Service

0800 777 846

Earthquake Support Co-ordination Service Our Earthquake Support Coordinators can help you plan your recovery and connect you to the services you need including: Accommodation Health Financial advice Employment and retraining Legal and insurance help Child care Call 0800 777 846 to request an Earthquake Support Coordinator – the service is free and confidential. www.familytimes.co.nz

13

14

www.familytimes.co.nz

Expect the unexpected There are many life events you can plan for, like buying your own home, getting married or having children.

You probably need insurance too, but not everyone needs all the different kinds available.

How much insurance you need will depend on your own circumstances and attitudes. It’s easy to buy too much insurance, but it’s just as easy to not buy enough.

nexpected events beyond our control are more difficult – redundancy, natural disasters, losses – and just the prospect of these can be enough to cause serious anxiety for many parents.

The Sorted website at sorted.org.nz has lots of useful information about the different types of insurance and questions to ask. It can help you weigh up the risks of not having the insurance against the costs of buying it.

We don’t like to imagine these worst-case scenarios, but it’s worth taking the time to consider their financial repercussions to be better prepared. If you think about what you would do in these situations and make a plan to protect your family against financial uncertainty, you’ll be more in control in the event of the unexpected.

Choose your insurance coverage to reflect the value you place on something. If you were to die, would your family be able to pay for the funeral, cover debts and manage without your income?

U

There are three things you can do to make sure you and your family are prepared:

1. Build an emergency fund 2. Insure what’s important to you 3. Keep your will up to date.

Saving an emergency fund – about three months’ income that is easy to access – is the best place to start protecting your loved ones.

It’s certainly challenging to save that much, but if you are the main breadwinner and become ill and unable to work, it will provide a muchneeded cash cushion to help you get by in the short term.

If you haven’t got an emergency fund, make saving for one an important financial goal.

Putting aside some money each pay will ensure it mounts up.

Once you’re happy with your insurance coverage, remember to check it regularly and whenever your situation changes – if your

children leave home, you move house or your relationship changes.

Everyone should have an up-to-date will – no matter what their age. If you haven’t got one or you need to update yours, get it drafted by someone with experience, such as a lawyer or trustee company. It’s difficult to think about, but if you die suddenly and have children, a will ensures you can choose a guardian to protect them and avoid any additional stress to your family.

It can be unnerving to think about losing loved ones or possessions. But by planning for those circumstances, you and your family will face the unexpected with more control over the consequences – and much less anxiety.

Something for everyone at Caesars Caesars is a great place for the whole family with quality food, a great environment and friendly staff.

There is a menu to suit most budgets and tastes, including gluten-free and vegetarian choices.

Children love Caesars and enjoy the play rooms, the children’s menu and the colouring competition.

The “families’ favourite” restaurant is an ideal spot for birthday parties or other occasions, and accommodates up to 200 guests.

Caesars can supply the birthday cake or you

can bring your own. Rugby and sports fans can watch the latest on the big screen in the bar around the fire on cold days.

On Mondays and Thursdays children dine free.

On Tuesdays Caesars offers two mains for $25 and on Crazy Wednesdays a second main is half price or $15 grill on the rocks. Dine on the sounds of live jazz on Saturdays while Sunday is typical Kiwi roast day. Daily $10 lunch menu continues in addition to $15 grill on the rocks lunch menu (conditions apply).

Bring the family and friends down to Caesars on Main North road in the Northwood Supa Centa.

Winter needs covered at In Step Winter is approaching and with cooler days ahead, you are spoilt for choice at In Step.

In Step has a fabulous winter range in store that includes Clarks, Ecco, Keens, Teva, Keds, Skechers, Asics, New Balance and Timberland.

For fashion, sport, school or play, as well as a full range of slippers, gumboots and snowboots, In Step has all your winter needs covered.

For babies and toddlers, the extensive range of Bobux, Clarks and Bibi is sure to please.

The experienced staff will spend time with you to ensure a comfortable fit and help choose a style that meets your requirements.

Step Up Starting 16 July, Hagley is offering a 15 week intensive Step Up NCEA Level 3 programme ideally suited to students who are seriously committed to going to university in 2013.

• Level 3 subjects available: English, Maths with Statistics, Maths with Calculus, Environmental Science, Biology, History, Geography.

• At least 14 Level 3 credits available in each subject – internal and external achievement standards • Students can enrol in any number of subjects up to 5 • Small classes Enrol now applications close 22 June Call 379 3090 ext 823, or email jackie.ward@hagley.school.nz

www.familytimes.co.nz

15

gardening corner

The vege patch with Jonesy Earthworms kept in a worm farm are the ultimate pets. They don’t bark at night and we don’t have to take them for walks. In fact we don’t have to buy them pet food as they help us make food. They eat our kitchen scraps and reward us with “vermicast,” the very best plant food and ideal ingredients for making your own potting mix.

T

he liquid vermicast that they produce is richly concentrated and micro bacterialaden. Earthworms and compost worms excrete this as they digest our garden and kitchen waste.

It can be diluted 10:1 with water and sprayed on all your veges, fruit and flowers.

Solid vermicast or “worm poo” that they also produce when digesting is used as a soil conditioner. Place a handful around your flower plants or side dress you veges; it’s also good for roses and fruit trees.

The worm’s menu is vegetable and fruit scraps, dolomite and lime, paper, grass clippings and teabags. Their favourite foods are banana skins and apple cores. Worms do not like meat, bread and orange peel.

Make your own worm farm built entirely from reused and recycled materials You will require:

Old carpet or sack if available (optional) Phone books or old bricks Wooden board 550mm x 550mm Small piece of silage wrap or similar Three car tyres of similar size Something suitable to use as a lid (piece of wood with a rock on it is okay) 35 Saturday newspapers (approximately) One container – suggest an old pot or bucket (to collect the liquid)

Friendly Christian Preschool We provide a warm, caring environment with structured morning and afternoon sessions.

We run a Christian curriculum and we extend children’s learning through positive teaching and fun filled activities. If you would like to come and visit please feel free to phone us to make a time.

Cornerstone Papanui 77 Windermere Road Papanui, Christchurch

P: 03 352 7899 E: cornerstone.celc @vodafone.co.nz

Cornerstone Aidanfield P: 03 338 9948 2 Nash Road E: cornerstone@ Aidanfield, Christchurch aidanfield.school.nz

Ages 2½-5 years M-F: 8.30am-3pm

www.cornerstone.school.nz

Lots of tiger worms or red worms (they like to live above the ground) Each farm recycles a fair amount of waste.

Operating instructions for your worm farm 1. Soak the newspapers in water and stuff

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

dilute 8 to 1 with water and spray or pour on to and around your special plants.

10. The nutrients from your kitchen scraps

all three of the tyres full of the damp newspaper (avoid coloured or glossy pages), one sheet at a time.

are now available for you to use in your organic garden and your worm population will have increased remarkably.

Place the sheet of wood wrapped in plastic on top of the bricks or telephone books.

Put the first stuffed tyre on top of the wood. Put an old sack or carpet inside to make a sort of nest for the new worms.

Fill this bottom tyre with bedding material e.g. horse manure/rotting pea straw/ compost and then tip the worms in.

Cover immediately with a thick layer of wet newspaper. Now put the other two stuffed tyres on top.

Feed regularly with kitchen scraps by lifting up the newspaper. Make sure the farm is kept moist to the touch. Always replace the newspaper to keep it dark.

Keep the worms and bedding covered with damp newspaper, plus an old sack or carpet (also damp). Place your lid on top of the tyre to prevent fly problems. Make

11. Worms suitable for your worm farm can

7.

8.

9.

sure the worms’ bedding is always moist – you may not need to add extra water if you give them lots of moist food scraps.

As the tyre stack fills up (normally takes several months), you can slide out the bottom tyre and empty it of worm castings/vermicast. You can use this in the garden or compost heap.

The empty tyre is now ready for reuse – stuff with fresh, moist newspapers and place on top of the tyre stack.

Regularly empty the pot of worm run –

be found in animal manure or rotting pea straw. Or buy them from a local worm farmer – check your phone book.

Now you have a worm farm you can start recycling all your kitchen scraps. Empty them into the farm and feed the worms daily or whenever is convenient. It’s a good idea to site your worm farm reasonably close to the back door, in a sunny spot.

Healthy soil, healthy food, healthy people!

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

International School of Music Have you heard all the music and singing coming from upstairs in Barrington Mall?

The International School of Music’s new second group studio is filling up quickly, however due to demand it is opening some beginners’ classes of the popular preschool and group piano classes in term three.

Students are aged from two-years up to beginners of 13-years. Students enrolling in terms three and four will also perform in the school’s popular Christmas concert.

The new students’ timetable is available at www.ismchristchurch.co.nz. Contact Nicky Fryer on 03-377-3778.

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16

www.familytimes.co.nz

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Paint your own mug or plate W

You will need:

elcome to our new craft corner.

Encouraging the creative side in your child is an important part of his or her development and these days, many fathers are playing this part. In generations past, it was the men who were often the excellent hand crafters in the family while the women filled their days with domestic duties. Now with varying working hours and children’s busy extramural schedules, traditional roles are no longer and most child raising duties are shared. Most fathers enjoyed building models and making things when they were younger and as a father they now have the chance to rediscover these skills.

• •

Mug, plate or tile

• •

Paint brush

1.

Clean plate/mug with soapy water, alcohol or meths to de-grease surface.

2.

Either trace a design onto your item with pencil or the graphite paper, or you can just paint freehand. If you are painting one colour over another you will need to wait for the first colour to dry. Dots can be created using cotton buds, a stencil or masking tape to make stripes, make a handprint … there are lots of possibilities.

You can use pens to outline your design or sign your name once you are done.

3.

Wash up brushes in water. Paint is not permanent until baked on so you can wash off any mistakes.

Sharing craft time amongst both parents is a great way for your child to gain different skills, as each will have their own take on projects. It can also be a fun way for parents to learn new skills for themselves without the pressure of adult expectations.

Children love to make things, especially when they are young and for most it doesn’t matter what the finished product is like; the fun is in the making.

Whether it is a parent and child or a group of children, time crafting develops many important skills. These skills include communication, decision-making and problem solving skills as well as hand-eye co-ordination.

Such basic skills as threading beads, working out how to make a pipe cleaner animal stand up and assembling a collage are all examples of

Marian College Marian College is a Catholic school for girls that combines high academic standards and a progressive approach to modern education.

Marian College is unique in that it has the benefits of a small school - with its intimate atmosphere - and the advantages of a much larger school in the curriculum opportunities it offers. Each year in NCEA students consistently perform above the level of their peers in similar schools and the ERO identified Marian College as a high performing school in 2009.

Cultural opportunities are wide and varied including music, drama, debating and both Maori and Pacific cultural groups. The college is highly regarded in touch, netball, hockey, basketball and cricket, reflecting its rich sporting tradition.

Marian College prides itself on living Christian values. The pastoral care of all students includes an excellent year 9 induction programme to welcome new students. Students are encouraged to have a strong sense of social justice and service.

craft corner

Pebeo porcelain paint and/or porcelain marker pen

Optional: masking tape, graphite paper or pencil

4. Leave to dry for a minimum of 24 hours then this. These physical skills are totally different place the decorated object in a cold oven. from anything learnt on a computer. Mixing When the temperature of the oven has paint colours on a computer is nothing like the reached 150°C (300°F), bake for 35 minutes. experience of mixing real paints. The skill level Only the areas not intended to be put in of all involved is secondary to the fun of making contact with food should be decorated. and the time spent together. Accept that there will probably be a mess involved but the fun ERO voucher – Family Times Free Parenting Publication NB: Do not thin paints with water as this will and shared time will be worth it.

May 2012 cause it to bubble when cooking.

By Sarah Chisnall. manager Hands Craft Make sure you save the treasure your child has Store For further details, enquiries and craft blog painted to produce at their 21st birthday! visit www.handscraftstore.com.

ERO guides for parents

Early Childhood Education: A Guide for Parents

Choosing a School for a Five Year Old

Going to Secondary School

New National Reports

Improving Education Outcomes for Pacific Learners

Science in The New Zealand Curriculum: Years 5 to 8

Download copies of these reports, other publications and individual school reports:

www.ero.govt.nz Ph: 04 499 2489 Email: info@ero.govt.nz

www.familytimes.co.nz

17

Take the family to Mt Hutt where kids 10 and under ski free Canterbury’s Mt Hutt ski area is looking forward to a season of family fun, as families head for the slopes in the knowledge that children aged 10 and under ski for free.

The “10 and under� move was designed to make skiing and snowboarding more affordable for families and has been widely welcomed Mt Hutt ski area manager James McKenzie said many Christchurch and Canterbury families were “absolutely delighted� about the 10 and under ski free deal for youngsters, which is part of a wider Methven initiative.

Many shops, restaurants, cafes and motels

Karen Theobald from Family Times visited St Anne’s Catholic School in Woolston to talk with kids about whether they like doing activities for fun or to be the best they can be.

in the village are actively taking part in and promoting the deal. A local transport provider is also helping out by offering all 10 and unders free return transport from Methven up to Mt Hutt each day.

Amelia Craig, age 9

I have been dancing since I was three, starting with ballet and then Highland dancing. I dance because it’s fun and I have made friends outside school. Some parts of our lessons involve learning and trying to get better at moves. I used to do the ballet exams, but now enjoy just Highland dancing. My parents know I like dancing so are happy for me to keep going to lessons. At school I like to try other activities and want to give netball a go this term.

“We hope record numbers of families will be able to realise their dream of taking the kids on a skiing holiday, especially when they can take advantage of special offers of free food or accommodation to help take the financial pressure off a winter break.�

For all the details and a list of participating businesses you can visit www.kids4free.co.nz.

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Sofia Bui, age 10

I don’t do any activities outside school but I like cooking, music and swimming. When we have swimming lessons through school it’s not that much fun but I learn lots and try to improve.

My best friend and I really enjoy cooking and we make different recipes. I have a keyboard and teach myself with the booklet it came with. I like having a go at the practice songs. My caregiver helps me with my learning also.

Grace Newnham, age 9

I use to do taekwondo but didn’t like that; it was too strict. Now I do gymnastics and goal ball. Gymnastics is lots of fun, especially on the trampolines, but I still want to be the best I can be. I enjoy having a go at lots of activities because I get bored easily.

I come up with the ideas, and then mum lets me try it for one term to see if I like the activity first.

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Adapted for the stage by John Boyce

4 th – 15 th July

Wed–Fri: 7pm, Sat– Sun: 11am & 2pm

Open Stage Theatre, Hagley College, 510 Hagley Ave

Tickets only $10

Bookings: Phone 338 4699 or visit www.riccartonplayers.co.nz

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Indi Timms, age 9

I play the keyboard and have been doing Highland dancing since I was six. At dancing it’s lots of fun with my friends but I keep going to get better. I like learning the new dances. It’s only if I am tired and it’s a late class that it’s not enjoyable.

My mum and dad suggest activities and then I choose which ones I would like to try. The keyboard was hard at the beginning but I am getting better.

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Brave Since ancient times, stories of epic battles and mystical legends have been passed through the generations across the rugged and mysterious Highlands of Scotland. In BRAVE, a new tale joins the lore when the courageous Merida (voice of Kelly Macdonald) confronts tradition, destiny and the fiercest of beasts. The film takes aim at cinemas on June 21, 2012, and will be presented in Disney Digital 3D™ in select theatres. We have five prize packs, each consisting of a double in-season pass to the movie, a watch, stationary set and t-shirt to give away. Entries close 27 June 2012.

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Tekapo Springs Family Pass Why not take the family to Lake Tekapo this winter? Tekapo Springs is open 10am9pm daily and there is an activity to suit every member of the family. Enjoy soaking in one of the three outdoor hot pools that overlook the lake, iceskate on a full-sized outdoor rink or let gravity take you down the 150m snow tube park! The Tahr Bar & CafĂŠ are at the heart of the facility and offer a warm and cosy place to enjoy great food, a coffee or even something a little stronger. We have a family pass for two adults and up to three children (18 years) to give away.

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The Family Times Design Competition The London 2012 Olympics start on 27 July and will involve more than 200 countries in 302 events across 26 different sports. To celebrate, we would love our readers to design a commemorative t-shirt. Draw it for us, and be in to win a $30 prize pack from Crayola! Three entry age groups: preschool (age 1-4), 5-8, 9-12.

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

Entries close on 13 July 2012. __________________________________ Congratulations to our autumn design poster competition winners from our last issue and thanks to the Christchurch Art Gallery Te Puna O Waiwhetu for their help with judging.

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Winter 2012

Just tick the things you want to win

Tekapo Springs Family Pass Brave Brita Water Filter Jet Park Hotel

Name Address City Phone

To be in the draw to win, enter online at www.familytimes.co.nz or write your name and address on the back of an envelope or postcard and send to: Christchurch Competition, P O Box 36 004, Christchurch to reach us by 13th July 2012, unless stated otherwise. Only one entry per household.

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

BRITA water filter jugs Win one of 10 BRITA water filter jugs.

Experience refreshing, clean tasting water from a BRITA filter jug! BRITA jugs use Maxtra water filters to remove impurities like chlorine and heavy metals often found in household taps, leaving the best drinking water for you and your family to enjoy. You can even improve the taste of your tea or coffee with BRITA water! Just leave the BRITA jug in the fridge for chilled, pure, refreshing water all year round. RRP $45.99.

Jet Park Hotel – it’s a family affair Avoid the rush for the airport with Jet Park Hotel’s new family suites that cater for mum, dad and up to four kids in a tworoom interconnecting suite. Situated by Auckland Airport, everyone can be ready on time – and entertained at the hotel.

The suites feature kids’ TV, music, and bed linen, baby bath, toys and cots. There’s a lounge and kitchenette in the parents’ room, and a separate TV in the kids’ room.

Factor in Jet Park’s two weeks free car storage, and it’s an excellent-value option.

We have a night’s accommodation in a family suite to give away plus a $100 voucher to be used on any goods or services at Jet Park Hotel.

family holiday FUN 4 - 14 JulY

why are my PARENTS

SO BORING? written & directed by dan bain

(A Paintbox Of Clowns)

9 $ S T E TICK Principal sponsor

book now: 963 0870 or www.courttheatre.org.nz www.familytimes.co.nz www.familytimes.co.nz 19 19

cool activities

Calendar of Events This winter the popular TV2 Kidsfest returns, jam packed with ideas for the July school holidays. Visit www.bethere.co.nz to keep up-to-date with other family friendly activities over the next few months.

30 June-14 July TV2 Kidsfest. Take part in one of the many cool events offered these holidays. Visit www. kidsfest.org.nz for details.

22 June Applications close 22 June for Step Up, a 15 week programme for those wanting to achieve NCEA Level 3 credits to further their education in 2013. Phone 033793-090 ext 823 for details.

Christchurch City Libraries holiday activities 18 June-12 July Winter Reading Club. Kids, do you need a challenge this winter? How about reading a book? Watching a movie? Baking a cake?

Dressing up? You can do all these things and more as part of the Winter Reading Club.

If you complete the challenge there are prize packs on offer. Pick up your challenge card from your local library. Visit. www. christchurchcitylibraries.com/kids/events/ Winter-reading-club/ for details.

Marching Canterbury Give marching a go at Marching Canterbury!

Marching is a competitive sport for ages five-years and up. It develops confidence, co-ordination and is a lot of fun.

Marching has kept up with the changing times. Competitions generally take up just one weekend morning and fees are very competitive. Teams complete traditional drills but also perform freestyle displays set to modern music.

Marching Canterbury is one of the strongest associations in New Zealand and has regular competitions. Marching is an ideal way to keep fit, form lasting friendships and develop personal discipline.

For more information phone Jo on 03-9805001 or 027-282-9280.

Visit www.marchingcanterbury.co.nz.

20 www.familytimes.co.nz

30 June Whanau Fun Day. Join us at Rehua Marae, 79 Springfield Road, St Albans from 10am4pm for storytelling, activities, stalls and much more! Visit www.christchurchcitylibraries.com/ Events/Matariki/ for more information.

2-13 July Oamaru Public Library holiday fun. Meet in the library on Mondays, Wednesdays and

25-29 June Story Blanket Display .Visit Rehua Marae to enjoy a display of story blankets that tell of legendary exploits and reflect on traditions and values. The blankets will depict stories told by prominent New Zealand writers, including Witi Ihimaera’s The Whale Rider, Gavin Bishop’s Taming the Sun, Patricia Grace’s The Kuia and the Spider, Melanie Drewery’s Stories from our night Sky, Ben Brown’s Fifty–five feathers and Robyn Kahukiwa’s The forgotten Taniwha. From 10am-4pm at 79 Springfield Road, St Albans.

Visit www.christchurchcitylibraries.com/ Events/Matariki/.

Winnie Bagoes Ferrymead - your local family-friendly pizza restaurant Do you want to take the family out for dinner but struggle to know where to take them? Winnie Bagoes Ferrymead is your local family-friendly restaurant.

There’s a great kids’ menu, the popular Kids’ Pizza School (which is great for birthdays at only $10 per child), and the famous Winnie’s kids’ party at the end of every school holidays. You need look no further when thinking of a great friendly restaurant that you can take the whole family too. Visit Winnie Bagoes Ferrymead at 2 Waterman Place, Ferrymead, phone 03-376-4900, www.winniebagoes.co.nz.

Fridays at 10.30am. Week one features The Making of the Word Witch at Forrester Gallery and week two involves Digging up the Past at North Otago Museum. Toddler Time, stories and music runs on Thursdays at 10.30am.

Phone 03- 433-0850 for details.

7-8 July Combined Lions Club Annual Book Sale.

From 9am-5pm at Kendal School, 53 Kendal Avenue, Burnside. Free admission. For further information phone 03-329-9122 (evenings).

21 July

Patricia Paul School of Dance Mid Year Soiree. Features classical ballet, contemporary and jazz dance. For enquiries and tickets phone 03-372-9191 or email patricia.paul@xtra.co.nz.

21-22 July National Bear and Doll Show. Come and adore the competition bears and dolls on display at Canterbury Horticultural Society

Absolute Rhythmic Gymnastics

At Absolute we emphasise fun and fitness.

Many skills are learnt that are fun and challenging and also help children in other areas – such as concentration, discipline and co-ordination that can be applied to school work and other sports. Being part of a group outside of school is a great way for children to create new friendships with like-minded girls.

Rhythmic gymnastics is a balanced combination of gracefulness and athleticism.

Give it a go! Please see our advertisement below for contact details.

Centre from 10am-4pm daily. Admission fee applies Phone 03-942-6894 for details.

28 July

CSO and Around the World with Disney.

Fabulous symphonic arrangements to the scenes of familiar Disney animated films. From 7.30pm at CBS Canterbury Arena. Tickets from www.ticketek.com.

9 September DOC forest family fun day. Celebrate Conservation Week- learn what lives in a forest, make weta-hotel workshops and crafts, see live creatures and real rangers. From 10am-4pm at Riccarton Bush, Ngahere Street entrance.Visit www.doc.govt.nz/forestfamilies for more details.

Compiled by Karen Theobald

2-4-6-8 who wants to roller skate?

Grab the kids and come roller skating - it’s fun, interactive, great fitness and perfect for the whole family. All skates are provided so come and join the party music, disco lights, games and prizes for just $6 per person.

Regular public sessions are at Rolleston and Prebbleton, and just added are midweek skate sessions at Prebbleton, Branston Intermediate and Rolleston. Check out www.phatsk8.co.nz for dates.

Birthday parties, fundraisers, 40th’s, holiday programmes and lessons are Phatsk8’s speciality. They even sell skates and accessories. Phone Ingrid on 03-349-9924 or 027-387-0065.

cool activities

Holiday programmes School holidays can be a great time to try a new activity or even an old favourite. Quality full time care programmes also offer different experiences for your children and peace of mind while you work.

Arion Farm Education Park Feed, care and play with farm animals at the July holiday programme from 10am-3pm daily.

Phone Suzie on 021-881-279 or email admin@ nta.co.nz for details.

Marching Canterbury Learn to march these holidays. Primary and secondary age students welcome. Visit www. marchingcanterbury.co.nz or phone 03-9805001 for more details.

Kendal OSCAR Programmes Enrolments in Kendal OSCAR programmes are open to all Christchurch families during the school holidays. Email oscar@kendal.school.nz or phone 03-358-4140 for information.

Beadz Unlimited Exciting workshops for children along with a great selection of kits and amazing ideas to brighten up your holidays. Visit www. beadzunlimited.com for dates.

CASPA holiday programmes Let CASPA make your school holiday care easier. Programmes operate from 8am-6pm.

Phone 03-349-9260 or visit www.caspa.org.nz for locations.

ASB holiday fun football Immerse your child in football these holidays.

Programmes run from one to four days and cater for five to 12-year-olds. Girls-only

sessions also. Visit www.mainlandfootball.co.nz for details.

Patricia Paul School of Dance winter workshops For winter workshops including ballet (Grade 4 -Advanced 1) RAD, jazz, contemporary and hip hop NZAMD enquiries phone 03-372-9191 or email patricia.paul@xtra.co.nz.

Spy Games at Wigram Air Force Museum Learn navigation and surveillance skills, take part in secret code workshops and complete a secret spy mission. Various length programmes for five to12-year-olds. Book on 03-343-9504 or email programmes@airforcemuseum.co.nz.

Kidsfest beading programme-nuts and bolts design Get creative at a beading class in Lincoln, Rolleston and Darfield. For bookings and information phone 03-347-3570 or visit www. madebyme.co.nz.

Aikido for kids Have-a-go sessions that introduce the Japanese martial art aikido; a fun way to develop balance, strength and co-ordination.

On 3 and 9 July from 4.30-5.30pm. Booking required, email asc@christchurchaikido.co.nz or phone 03-383-4843.

The McVicar Mascots Kiwi teams grade, caters for marchers from five to 12-years and is noncompetitive. Photo: Shayne Kim

Caspa New Zealand Caspa understands that it’s difficult to find childcare in a safe, creative environment that your child enjoys and that also meets your needs.

Caspa’s after-school and holiday programme is enjoyed by five-13 year-olds. The experienced staff is trained, highly motivated and

professional. Whether attendance is every day, a couple of days a week or casually, your child will be happy and well looked after. Child Youth & Family approved. OSCAR subsidies apply. Phone Tania or Alanna 03-349-9260 or 027-274-0000 or email info@caspa.org.nz for an enrolment form.

www.familytimes.co.nz

21

cool activities Devine Riding Centre and miniature horse fun days

Ride ponies and miniature horses with an obstacle course and treasure hunt fun. Phone 03-349-5893, 021-924-499 or visit www. devineridingcentre.co.nz.

Hands Craft Store holiday workshops

Get crafty these holidays with workshops for eight to 12-year-olds in a variety of craft topics.

For full details phone 03-355-9099 or email hands.craft@clear.net.nz.

YMCA holiday programmes The YMCA believes that school holidays should be fun, safe and creative. They have an expanding range of programmes and some exciting activities lined up for the July holidays.

With week-long, two-day and single-day programmes, there is something for everyone.

YMCA programmes are OSCAR approved and YMCA subsidies are available. Visit www. ymcachch.org.nz/youngpeople for more information and to view a video of our holiday programmes in action.

Compiled by Karen Theobald

Entertainment Delight the whole family and keep everyone entertained with these fantastic local attractions.

Timezone Games

Transport yourself to another world at Timezone Games. For great games, awesome prizes and serious fun visit Timezone Westfield Riccarton and www.timezonegames.co.nz.

Dudley Park Aquatic Centre

Dudley Park Aquatic Centre offers indoor heated pools for recreational swimming, a spa pool, WaiSwim swimming lessons and aquarobics. Phone 03-311-8905 for more information.

HOYTS Riccarton

Get more from your movies with HOYTS rewards. Free ticket on sign up, join for only $10 at Hoyts Riccarton.

Methven Heritage Centre

Visit NZ’s Alpine and Agriculture Encounter, cafe and art gallery in Methven. Drive a combine harvester, crawl into an ice cave and look inside a beehive. Special family rates, phone 03-302-9666.

Rock climbing for kids at The Roxx

Tell our advertiser you saw it in...

You’ve tried Clip’N Climb, now climb on the Roxx side! Introductory belay briefing, harness and shoe hire for only $15 during the holidays. Kids must be 13-years-old to belay or an adult can be taught to belay for those under 13. Phone 03-377-3000 or visit www.theroxx. co.nz for more information.

Air Force Museum

Go on a unique journey of discovery and adventure, with fully restored aircraft and

interactive entertainment. Free museum entry.

Visit www.airforcemuseum.co.nz or phone 03-343-9504.

Reading Cinemas The Palms

Christchurch’s first class 8 screen cinema complex featuring wall-to-wall screens, Dolby Digital 3D and luxury armchair comfort. Phone 03-375-7080 or visit www. readingcinemas.co.nz.

Willowbank Wildlife Reserve

Visit Willowbank’s Big 5, the tuatara (cousin to the dinosaur), our national symbol-the kiwi, the cheeky kea, the mighty takahe and the very rare kaka. Visit www.willowbank.co.nz.

The Plains Railway

Ride the train at the Plains Railway, Maronan Road, Tinwald, Ashburton. Open on request during the winter season for group visits. Phone 03-308-9600 or email info@ plainsrailway.co.nz.

Mums and Kids Golf Coaching

Group golf lessons for children and women with female golf pro Toni Batey starting soon. Phone 027-438-2678 or search the events section at www.

ToniBateyGolfPro.co.nz for details.

Orana Wildlife Park

Black Cat Cruises- Akaroa.

See dolphins, seals, penguins and amazing scenery on the daily harbour cruises. Special family pass rates. Phone 0800-436-574 or visit www.blackcat.co.nz for more information.

McLeans Island bike hire

Experience unique animal encounters only 15 minutes from Christchurch Airport.

Hand feed giraffe, view rhino and see the mighty lions. Open 10am-5pm. Visit www. oranawildlifepark.co.nz.

Hire a mountain bike and cycle the 2, 5 and 10.5km forest loop tracks. Shop open for treats afterwards. Open 9am-5pm weekends and public holidays. Phone 03-348-1738.

Hit the roller disco at Prebbleton or Rolleston these holidays. Great value at $6 each including skates. Phone 03-349-9924 or visit www. phatsk8.co.nz to book.

Have fun at the carousel, climbing wall, confidence course, paintball, laser tag and family restaurant. Open seven days. For more information visit www.castlepark.net.nz.

PHATSK8 roller discos

SHINRYUKAN phone

Training 7 days a week Classes for Kids aged 5–12 yrs at Burnside & Linwood

383-4843

www.christchurchaikido.co.nz 22 www.familytimes.co.nz

Clip ‘N Climb recently unveiled an 8m high vertical drop slide (pictured). Once you have been elevated to your preferred height you simply let go and gravity provides you with the ride of your life!

The slide is one of a host of exciting new changes at Clip ‘N Climb.

Castle Park-SH1 Leithfield

cool activities

Family physical activities 17 June K Sri Chinmoy Cross Country

International Antarctic Centre

eeping active over the cooler months can sometimes be a challenge. Here are a few events you can participate in as a family. Don’t forget Christchurch has loads of parks, bike tracks and walkways to enjoy too.

Special offer for Christchurch locals, a family pass of two adults and up to four children for just $50! Offer ends 30 June 2012, proof of residence required. Visit www.iceberg.co.nz for further details.

16 and 23 June PT in the Park.

Entertainmentholiday specials

Fit for Free, group exercise session taken by personal trainers.

North Hagley Park, corner Harper Avenue/ Bealey Avenue. At 12 noon every Saturday, rain or shine until 30 June. Children eightyears plus welcome. Email dandjscott@xtra. co.nz for more details.

Why are my parents so boring?

Join in the hijinks when one kid decides to make their parents fun. From 4-14 July at the Court Theatre in Addington. Bookings phone 03-963-0870 or visit www.courttheatre.org.nz.

Runs. Try cross country running over a children’s 2.5km course or 8km course for over 13-year-olds. Starts at 9am from Canterbury Agricultural Park. To enter go to www. nz.srichinmoyraces.org phone 03-377-1327.

24 June, 29 July and 26 August JD Duathlons. Run and bike as a family team or individual, on the flat, fast course at Ruapuna Raceway. Visit www. jdevents.co.nz or phone 03-981-7508 for more details.

Compiled by Karen Theobald

The Three Little Pigs

Watch this classic story come to life with the Riccarton Players, at Hagley Community College from 4-15 July. For details and tickets visit www.riccartonplayers.co.nz or phone 03-338-4699.

Willowbank’s Great MidWinter Sale

Come to Willowbank these holidays and enjoy a bargain at Willowbank’s Great Mid-Winter Sale. This only happens once a year, so don’t miss out. Details at www. willowbank.co.nz.

Dinosaurs at Barrington

Learn about dinosaurs and prehistoric times at Barrington Shopping Centre these holidays with fabulous displays from Science Alive.

Phone 03-332-4221 for details.

Ferrymead Heritage Park “hands-on” activities

Step back in time at Ferrymead Heritage Park with “hands-on” children’s activities these holidays. Visit www.ferrymead.org.nz or phone 03-384-1970 for more information.

Little Red Riding Hood-The Untold Story

Imagine Youth Theatre presents Little Red Riding Hood –The Untold Story. Two shows daily, except Sundays, from 3-14 July. For bookings phone 03-365-5227.

CSO and Magical World of

Nigel Leigh and ski-week kids have fun building an igloo at Mt Cheeseman.

Disney

Around the World with Disney features fabulous symphonic arrangements to the scenes of familiar Disney films. On Saturday 28 July, 7.30pm at CBS Canterbury Arena.

Tickets from www.ticketek.com.

Ski Mt Hutt

Enjoy winter family fun in the snow at Mt Hutt, where kids 10-years and under ski for free. Visit www.nzski.com for details.

Southern Ballet

“The Snow Queen” and “Ballet Cuisine”.

Southern Ballet Theatre presents two productions in one show this holiday season 4-7 July. Tickets available from 108 Carlyle Street, Sydenham. For further details phone 03-379-7219 or search www.southernballet. co.nz.

Westfield

Westfield Riccarton’s “5 Minutes of Fame” Check out local singers, dancers and musicians as they compete on stage. From 9-13 July. Go to www.westfield.co.nz/ riccarton for times.

Compiled by Karen Theobald

Team three cross the finish line in a recent JD Duathlon event at Ruapuna Speedway. Photo: Bruce Wilson

YMCA Christchurch Youth Talent Quest This year the YMCA of Christchurch is celebrating 150 years of work in the community.

One of the many events planned is the talent quest for young people of high school age to 24 years. It will be held on 29 September, and online auditions will be open in June. More information is available at www. ymcachch.org.nz. This is an opportunity for young people to showcase their talent and be in to win big cash prizes from $500 - $10,000! For more information email mailto@ymcachch.org.nz.

www.familytimes.co.nz

23

cool activities

Get your kids snow-ready this winter There’s nothing quite like sharing a day on the snow with your children: it can lead to a lifelong enjoyment of a new sport.

T

he key to a positive first experience is to be well prepared ahead of time.

My husband Shane and I met on the slopes of Kirkwood in California. Our passion for skiing and the mountains is what brought us together so, needless to say, our children, Kylie and Drew, were not given a choice and were on skis as soon as they could walk.

4. Take it slow

We worked hard to ensure that they would share our passion for the sport but it wasn’t always as easy as one might think. This was our plan of attack:

1. Build anticipation

We let them watch lots of child-appropriate ski and snowboard movies before hitting the slopes. We watched mostly Snow Monsters movies; they also have a great website for kids www.snowmonsters.com.

5. Professional instruction

2. Familiarise them with the equipment

We let them walk around with their ski boots and skis on the living room floor so that they got used to the heaviness and feeling of the equipment before they were on the slippery snow.

We made sure that they had clothes that would keep them warm and dry. Your local ski shop should be helpful in discussing what they will need. Don’t skimp on the socks and gloves; they are just as important as the ski pants and jackets!

Even though Shane and I are both ski instructors, we paid to put our children in lessons. Trying to teach your own children can easily spell disaster. If you can afford to put your children in private lessons to start it will help them progress much faster and get them past those first awkward feelings of sliding on snow.

6. Family ski time

3. Proper clothing and accessories

Our children started at a young age so we took it very slowly. We only went up when the weather was nice and sometimes drove 45 minutes for two runs followed by hot chocolates and then a 45-minute drive home. You’ll know your children best; if they tire easily, be sure to build in plenty of breaks or to schedule a half-day lesson for their first time up rather than a full day. If possible, schedule your first trip when the weather is mild and the snow conditions soft.

When the kids finished their lessons we always took one or two runs as a family. Be sure to discuss which runs are safe to go on with the instructor and when in doubt don’t push them too hard. Mileage on easier slopes will go a lot further than putting them on slopes that frighten them.

7. Get there safely

Make sure your car is well-equipped for travelling to the mountains. Carry chains and know how to put them on. Make sure

Winter family fun in the snow at Mt Hutt. Where kids 10 years and under ski for FREE. www.nzski.com

ASB holiday football July 2012 Each session includes skill-based training, so kids can learn the tricks and techniques to become better players. They will play football games in a fun environment, and experience the thrill of putting those skills into practice.

Mainland Football

Venue: ASB Football Park, Cranford

Street

Cost: $60 or $35 single day, 10% discount for siblings Book by: 3 July 2012 Registration: www.mainlandfootball.

Age: 7 to 10-year-olds / 11 to 14-year-olds co.nz Dates: 10-13 July, 9am-3pm Venue: ASB Football Park, Cranford Street Halswell United AFC Cost: $120, or $35 single day, 10% Age: 7 to 11-year-olds discount for siblings Dates: 10-13 July, 9am - 3pm Venue: Halswell Domain Girls only Age: 5 to 12-year-olds Cost: $100.00 Dates: 5 and 6 July, 9am-3pm Registration: huafc2012@gmail.com 12 and 13 July, 9am-3pm

Bonus clown entertainment on the last day.

ASB H

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YOUR NEAREST ACCREDITED PROVIDER

ASB Holiday Football is delivered under the supervision of New Zealand Football, the official governing body of the game.

Age: 7-12 year olds Dates: 3-5 July, 9.00am-3.00pm Venue: Halswell Domain, Cost: $100 Register at: huafc2012@gmail.com BONUS: Clown entertainment on the last day.

Age: 7-10 year olds/11-14 year olds Dates: 10-13 July, 9.00am-3.00pm Venue: ASB Football Park, Cranford St Cost: $120, or $35 single day, 10% discount for siblings Book by: 3rd July Register at: www.mainlandfootball.co.nz

NEW THESE HOLIDAYS: GIRLS ONLY FOOTBALL Age: Dates: Venue:

24 www.familytimes.co.nz

5-12 year olds 5-6 July, 9.00am-3.00pm 12-13 July, 9.00am-3.00pm ASB Football Park, Cranford St

Cost:

$60, or $35 single day, 10% discount for siblings Book by: 3rd July 2012 Register at: www.mainlandfootball.co.nz

your tyres are in good condition and if you haven’t experienced winter driving, read up on how to drive in icy or snowy conditions.

If you’ve scheduled lessons, leave plenty of time to get to the mountain and get parked so that you aren’t driving at unsafe speeds on slippery roads.

8. Bribery

Not sure how this will go over with the parenting gurus…but, we found that having a stash of goodies in our pockets helped keep Kylie and Drew motivated and energised for that next run. Hot chocolate was also always a good reward for their hard work and apparently helps with muscle recovery too.

FUNdamentals There’s a great programme here in New Zealand to help get your children started called FUNdamentals. It’s developed by Snow Sports New Zealand’s highly qualified coaching and development staff, and provides you with everything you’ll need to make your children’s time on snow successful. Visit www. snowsports.co.nz.

One last note for parents of children with disabilities: Our daughter Kylie was born three months early and has cerebral palsy which has resulted in weakness on her left side. She is now 11, skis advanced slopes and loves it. Sliding on snow is possible for most kiwis with disabilities and provides a sense of freedom that few other sports provide. An amazing programme called Adaptive Snow Sports NZ helps those with disabilities access the mountains, and provides specialised lessons and equipment. Visit: www. disabledsnowsports.org.nz.

By Tania Pilkinton, Snow Sports New Zealand

Twelve months to the day on the 19th May Twelve months to the day on the 19th May The EcoShop opened – and opened to stay On Blenheim Road numbered one ninety one Treasure hunts continue day after day.

It’s bargains galore this way and that Over there’s furniture and here’s a hat!

A department store for everything used Looking for a new home as a matter of fact Through the week, Monday to Friday The store is re-stocked, dusted and tidied Then every day when the doors re-open There’s more wonderful treasures awaiting inspection We now sell paint alongside treasures old and new So re-colouring your home comes cheaper too We may even have a paintbrush, a tray and roller To make brightening your world so easy to do It’s saving you money and our planet too Buying pre-loved is the right thing to do As the most sustainable thing you can ever buy Already exists and is waiting for you.

So come on in and join us as we say Thank you to our customers who’ve proved every day You’ll save money, the planet and perhaps, just perhaps

Something special, beautiful, colourful or

just fun!

Education for our changing world State education is old. It was built hundreds of years ago in a world that has long since disappeared. Seven Oaks, an independent school opened in 2009, is dedicated to equipping students with the skills they need in our emerging environment.

Educators at Seven Oaks ground academic learning in real-life outside and off-site experiences so that subjects are imbued with practical meaning for each student. Young Seven Oaks students are involved in simple activities such as gardening and cleaning. Older students are able to participate in more advanced activities such as decision-making, administration and commerce.

“Sitting kids at desks and getting them to temporarily memorise things that don’t really interest them just to pass an exam is not preparing them for the rapidly emerging world,” says Holistic Education Trust founder Bruce McIntyre.

“They need the whole of their minds to be recognised and developed.”

Students feel welcomed, cared for and supported in a nurturing environment at

Seven Oaks. They get to choose many of their own learning activities, they wear everyday practical clothes and with only 12 students per class, they have lots of one-onone opportunities with their educator.

Seven Oaks School, 35 Hassals Lane, Opawa, Christchurch. Phone 03-377-8603, www.sevenoaks.school.nz.

Hope for a new generation

Find out why mums love the Ecoshop!

Your children’s future depends upon the education they experience today.

Open daily 9 am – 5 pm. 191 Blenheim Road T 03 381 6495 W theecoshop.co.nz

call 377 8603 or visit www.sevenoaks.school.nz

We power up their innate brilliance so they can create a better world

www.familytimes.co.nz

25

baby & toddler

Keeping young children safe this winter Most of us find that we tend to spend more time indoors in winter. Fires are being lit and the heaters cranked up to keep everyone warm.

A

flickering flame or the glow from a heater can be fascinating to children, who are too young to understand how dangerous they can be.

Babies about four - nine months are particularly active and can cover more floor than you might expect. Keep a close eye on them as they may get themselves too close to the heater and be unable to get away again.

Here are some things you can do to help keep your family safe and warm this winter:

Keeping safe with fires and heaters The NZ Fire Service has a very simple rule; “Keep a metre from the heater”. This means people and furniture should be at least a metre from a heater or fire to reduce the risk of being burned, or causing a fire.

Having a safety guard around all heaters and fires will help prevent children getting burned.

Look for a guard that: • can be securely attached to the wall • has bars or mesh to stop children putting their arms or other objects through • is high enough that a child can’t climb over the top

filled) with a thermostat is best.

•

Making your baby’s • bedroom safe and the right temperature • A warm, dry home is really important for your child’s health and safety. Insulation is a proven way to achieve this. Overheated rooms though are not safe for babies so it’s important to strike a balance: • The best temperature for babies is one in which adults could comfortably wear light clothing, such as a single cotton layer.

Rooms should usually be between 16-20°C for babies to be comfortable and safe, and 15-17°C is a good overnight temperature.

•

Gas heaters can give off dangerous fumes and fan heaters can overheat the room.

Using an electric heater (convection or oil

Rear-facing car seats safest, says Plunket

Did you know that keeping your child rear-facing in the car is safest? Plunket recommends that your child travels rearfacing until at least two years of age or until they have reached the limits of their seat.

Rear-facing is up to five times safer than forward facing. In most crashes your child’s head, neck and spine will be cradled by a rear-facing seat, but when a child is forward facing they are more susceptible to dangerous head and neck injuries.

Are your kids in safe seats?

Just because they’re buckled , in doesn’t mean they re safe!

Find out if your kids are safe Visit Canterbury Plunket Car Seats: • Child and infant restraints for sale & hire • Excellent range at very affordable prices • Short and long term hire • FREE restraint checks by qualified technicians

Visit us at 5 Twigger Street, Addington, Christchurch or War Memorial Building, Albert Street, Rangiora.

Phone 0508 CAR SEAT or (03) 379 9266

For Urgent Accident & Medical Care Pegasus Health 24 Hour Surgery X-Ray, Urgent Pharmacy and Fracture Clinic available onsite.

On the Bealey Ave & Colombo St Corner

Ph 365 7777

Always there when you need us 24 HOUR SURGERY

26 www.familytimes.co.nz

•

Babies usually need one more layer of clothing or bedding than adults. Natural fabrics that breathe – such as such as wool and cotton – are best.

Bassinets or cots should be kept away from windows, where rooms are coldest.

Keep your baby’s room well ventilated with doors open - especially if you use a heater.

To check if your baby is too hot or cold, touch the back of their neck underneath clothing. If they feel warm, they are fine, even if their hands and feet are cold. If they feel cold, pop another layer on them.

• Check the label on nightwear for a “low

fire danger” label. This means the design of the garment is close-fitting to reduce the risk of it catching fire. It does not mean that the fabric is fire proof – it can still burn if exposed to a heat source.

For more information, support or advice, PlunketLine (0800-933-922) is available 24/7.

Tell our advertiser

you saw it in...

What to look for when choosing safe nightwear

• Close fitting clothing reduces the risk of

catching fire. Buy pyjamas that fit your child rather than buying a size too big to make them last.

SIDZ says safe sleep for baby

Sudden Unexpected Death in Infancy (SUDI), (SIDS), commonly known as cot death, kills more than 50 healthy babies in New Zealand each year. Babies need to sleep on their backs, in their own beds, where nothing can press against their faces and block their breathing. Babies need to lie flat, so their heads can’t be bent onto their chests, which can push their chins back to block their airways with their tongues.

So – no pillows, and don’t leave baby in a car seat when it is out of the car.

La Leche League New Zealand

Sally had trouble latching her baby and phoned her nearest La Leche League leader for help. Now Sally says that “Breastfeeding is pain free and my baby is content and settled.” Mothers who want to breastfeed need accurate information and support. If you need help with breastfeeding, contact La Leche League. Your leader will listen and offer practical suggestions. La Leche League leaders are breastfeeding mothers who are trained to give accurate up-todate breastfeeding information. Canterbury Breastfeeding Helpline 03-338-8447.

SIDS

Sudden Infant Death Support

HELP LINE 0800 164 455 24 Hour

Information & Support

support services

Help is @ hand Sometimes you need some information or an answer to a curly question. Why not pick up the phone and call the relative support agency? You’ll find professional caring people ready to assist you.

Catholic Social Services

Parenting and family support programmes open to all, free of charge.

Usual office hours with late night on Tuesdays ‘till 6.30pm by appointment.

336 Cashel Street, P O Box 4237, Christchurch. Phone: 03-379 0012

Angel Fund Wahine Putea A Women’s Savings and Loan Fund.

Phone: 03-366 9978 (city office), 358 8495 (home office) or 022-412 6435 www.angelfund.org.nz Don’t let money hold you back. Save with the Angel Fund and build a nest egg – no fees. Wanting to step ahead in small or home business, education or training? No interest loans of up to $500 available to women on low incomes. Start with $5 or $10 a week.

After school Christchurch has a variety of after school programmes on offer. From school-based care to special interest activities, there’s sure to be one to suit your child.

Rock Stars course

Is your child not a team player but needs a challenge? Clip ‘N Climb’s Rock Stars after school climbing programme at the Roxx Climbing Centre is the answer. It is a safe, fun introduction to basic climbing technique and incorporates yoga stretching, goal setting and communication skills. Book for term three now. Visit www.theroxx.co.nz, phone 03377-3000 or email climb@theroxx.co.nz.

Toolbox parenting groups

Vision: “To encourage and inspire parents and equip them with the skills and resources needed to grow great kids.”

Toolbox groups are relaxed, informal parenting sessions run over six weeks in a home or community venue. Each session leaves participants with a range of activities and strategies to try at home, and are filled with expert advice, humour and empowering strategies. The focus is on making your parenting experience a really positive one.

Toolbox groups are available throughout the country and are delivered in three age groups – early years (0-6), middle years (6-12) and teenage years (12+). The cost of the course is $67.50 per person or $90 per couple (including GST). The course is facilitated by trained local volunteers who are friendly and supportive.

Whatever stage you are at, a Toolbox group will give you the confidence to be the best parent that you can be and have fun on the way. To find out more information about our courses and to find a group in your area visit www.theparentingplace.com or call 0800-53-56-59.

I’m smart so why do I have such trouble with learning?

Finally there is an answer...

can unlock the key to your learning.

Kendal OSCAR programmes

Enrolments in Kendal OSCAR after school programmes are open to all Christchurch families. Email oscar@kendal.school.nz or phone 03-358-4140 for information.

Christchurch City Council recreation programmes Get your kids active by enrolling them on a fun recreation programme. Great tutors and exciting classes make it easy to get involved.

Bookings essential, phone 03-941-8999 for more information.

Letter to the editor Re: your article on men in childcare, autumn edition 2012.

If you want the real story about men in childcare, talk to me. I am a man who has been in early childcare since 1983.

I have worked in many centres over that time. I still experience discrimination although there are more centres that will accept men now.

I have been active in trying to get better conditions for all children in day care. I made submissions before the enquiry into the care of under two’s in New Zealand and spoke to the previous commissioner for children.

I still find discrimination when I apply for a position in a baby area, even though I have been in charge of a baby area. I was in a situation once where I had to address the fact

that every time I was holding a crying baby, a particular woman would want to grab the baby from me.

For a long time there have been centres that would not let men change nappies and had contracts that stipulated that. If someone ever gave me a contract that said that, I would not have signed it.

There are some centres where as a man I don’t feel safe and there are others where I am judged on my ability to interact with the children staff and parents.

Prejudice can come from parents too, but I do find that if the child is comfortable, then the parent will be too.

David Smith, Wainuiomata

Pregnancy Counselling Services Pregnancy Counselling Services can give reassurance, information, advice, advocacy, referral and practical help at this crucial time in a woman’s life. Counsellors help clients to find their own acceptable long-term solutions to problems such as accommodation, lack of material resources, continuing education, and the stress arising from pressure from family, friends, colleagues and workplace. In coming to their decisions, clients consider the

advantages and disadvantages of parenting a child, adoption and abortion.

Some examples of the assistance that Pregnancy Counselling Services provide to women in need are: • Non-judgmental, client-focused listening • Provision of baby clothes and equipment • Counselling for women disturbed by past abortions or miscarriages

Special Needs Library

The Special Needs Library for Educational and Therapeutic Resources, which lends educational, therapeutic, learning and recreational items, celebrates its 35th year of operation this year.

A trained professional is available in the library to advise on the use and suitability of resources available, relevant to the client’s needs.

Liaison Christina Murray said there are more than 3000 resources. “We are constantly updating our range for hire, and we are also happy to provide interesting speakers for groups, agencies, and service groups.”

To arrange, please contact Christina Murray on 03-332-0733.

Finding it hard to cope?

Call us for FREE, confidential telephone counselling 24/7

Ph 366 6743 0800 LifeLine (0800 54 33 54)

Removing limitations for Dyslexia, Dyspraxia, ADD and other challenges.

www.optimumlearning.co.nz Melanie Curry

www.lifelinechch.org.nz email counselling:

chris@lifeline.co.nz

Dip.Teach, B. Ed, Licensed Davis™ Facilitator

p. 03 322 1726 m. 021 367 669 melanie@optimumlearning.co.nz

www.familytimes.co.nz

27

destination west coast

The West Coast of the Southern Alps- take the journey Spectacular river gorges, rainforests, limestone caves, blowholes, glaciers, mountain ranges and early-settler heritage abound on the wonderful West Coast of New Zealand’s South Island.

T

he Coast, preserved in all or part of five National Parks, is a 600km long, narrow strip bound on the east by giant, imposing mountain ranges and by a wild, rugged coastline on the west.

From the top of the West Coast, stunning and peaceful Karamea - surrounded by lush native bush and a beautiful coastline - offers access to the increasingly popular Oparara Arches, Honeycomb Caves and the start of the Heaphy Track.

Westport is a scenic drive south from Karamea, where adventure activities such as jet boat trips through the spectacular Buller Gorge, underworld and white water rafting, horse riding and gold panning are available throughout the region. These activities are now joined by the newly upgraded Denniston heritage experience, set up by the Department of Conservation and now managed by private enterprise. This is a world class experience.

From here you can travel along the famous Buller Gorge to Reefton for more pioneering history and conservation parks. Alternatively, head south along the spectacular Coast Road, voted one of the top 10 scenic drives in the world by Lonely

Planet. You’ll come to Punakaiki and the famous Pancake Rocks and blowholes.

South of Punakaiki and the business centre of the West Coast, Greymouth is a bustling town and the commercial hub of rural West Coast. It’s home to Shantytown, a replica pioneering town in the gold rush era where you can pan for gold at the gold dam and visit an early working sawmill. For the more adventurous, Greymouth is also the place for more white water rafting and caving options as well as an abundance of recreational and sports fishing. Moana (Lake Brunner), just 30 minutes inland, is famous for trout fishing and boating.

Further south and situated beside the sea with a stunning view of distant mountains is Hokitika - a relaxed and friendly town. It’s famous for its annual Wildfoods Festival, and it also has a growing reputation as a wellrenowned artisan town with a number of art galleries featuring all kinds of art from greenstone and glass blowing to landscape photography. Both Hokitika and Greymouth are renowned for expertly crafted greenstone jewellery and sculptures.

Travel south of Hokitika and the road is a

part of the West Coast is.

scenic and easy drive through to the World Heritage area of South Westland. Just 90 minutes south of Hokitika you will come to the pretty coastal village of Okarito, home of the Okarito Kiwi. Okarito Kiwi tours offer a great opportunity to view the kiwi in its own natural habitat in the depths of the night.

Near Lake Moeraki, south of the glaciers as you are travelling to Haast, you will find the world’s rarest penguin – the Fiordland Crested Penguin. This is the only place in the world to host this rare penguin. They nest in the bush here, and it is truly something special to watch them.

As you come upon the vibrant villages of Franz Josef and Fox Glacier with some of New Zealand’s highest peaks towering above you, you can’t help but realise just how special this

Haast is the heart of the World Heritage area and a bird watcher’s paradise. A “must do”

AMAZING FAMILY TRIP, AMAZING PRICE

399

FROM

There’s never been a better time to book the perfect family getaway aboard the TranzAlpine. Take the kids across patchwork fields, over the soaring Southern Alps and down through ancient beech forests to Greymouth. Enjoy the historic seaside town, then sleep it all off on the relaxing ride home.

BOOK NOW at kiwirailscenic.co.nz or call 0800 TRAINS (872 467)

*Special conditions apply. Limited seats available. See website for details.

TRS 1756

28 www.familytimes.co.nz

$

*

FAMILY FARE RETURN (for 2 adults & up to 2 children)

CHC - GREYMOUTH - CHC

destination west coast is a scenic jet boat tour, which offers travellers a real perspective into the absolute remoteness of this area. Alternatively, perhaps explore one of the numerous walking trails. Jackson Bay, south of Haast, is also worth the drive for some stunning views looking back over the bay towards the Southern Alps.

Wildlife is abundant both on the coastline and in the forests. Seals are common with large colonies at Cape Foulwind, Westport and in South Westland. The rarest dolphins in the world, Hectors dolphin, are also found up and down the coast. The comical mountain parrot, the Kea, can often be found at unusually low altitudes and is renowned and respected for its mischievousness. At night the bush-lined roads and walking tracks are dotted with the small blue lights of glow worms.

The West Coast is famous for its whitebait, so make sure you try some traditional whitebait patties on your visit too!

Whatever the weather, you’ll be happy that you made the journey to the wild and wonderful West Coast of the Southern Alps - a truly different part of the country that offers lasting memories of good times and world-class scenery.

For more information visit www.westcoastnz.com.

Advertorial feature

Head west to Shantytown Nothing beats Shantytown Heritage Park for fantastic family holiday fun.

Take a 20 minute trip on the vintage steam train and see the mighty sluice gun – a giant water gun that blasts water at the gold bearing cliff-face. Shantytown’s gold claim guarantees you’ll strike it lucky – whatever your age and panning style!

The village has 30 shops and buildings to explore. There’s the old fashioned lolly shop, and a brand new holographic theatre using 21st century technology.

To really keep the kids busy, the Gold Rush Treasure Hunt has clues all over the village; a word-find, a maze and a word scramble, all together with a bag of wee treasures, which can be purchased from Reuben Waite’s General Store for $6.50. An old time photo fits the bill as a lovely memento of your visit. The Shantytown Express Bus operates everyday from Greymouth to Shantytown return with a very reasonable transport and entry package deal. See www.shantytown. co.nz for details.

www.familytimes.co.nz

29

destination Waitaki

Let’s go North Otago We all deserve a break away once in a while: the hard part is often deciding where.

W

ell, the perfect family-friendly destination has been found, so load up the car and the kids and head to the stunning Waitaki District in North Otago, a three hour drive south of Christchurch and just 45 minutes north of Dunedin.

Oamaru, the main town in North Otago, is nestled between rolling hills and looks out across a picturesque harbour. Don’t forget to pack the fishing rods. It is full of character and southern charm, friendly locals and great food, stunning buildings and unique activities. Where else can you witness the dirt, dust and noise of the Mud Plug on 30 June, and then hop on a Penny farthing, if you dare?

There is plenty to keep the family entertained, and much of it is free.

A must-see is the Victorian Precinct in Oamaru; it’s a world-class example of wellpreserved Victorian architecture. Wander the streets and browse among the stores and stalls then take a journey back in time and enjoy train travel the way it used to be with Oamaru Steam and Rail, guaranteed to make the kids’ day.

world, along with the Christchurch Youth Orchestra, will perform in the stunning Oamaru Opera House on 7 July.

Those wanting a little more adventure can make the most of the natural beauty and surrounds of the Waitaki district with a walk or bike around the un-crowded coastline, or boating and fishing at Kurow, Otematata or Omarama near the impressive hydro-dam lakes. There are also some of New Zealand’s most interesting land formations at Clay Cliffs, Elephant Rocks, Maori Rock Art and Moeraki Boulders.

Want more? Other suggestions for a great family getaway are:

• • • • •

• • •

Visit Anatini and Elephant Rocks – the main setting for Chronicles of Narnia – the Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe.

Ohau snowfield – this is a family-friendly commercial snowfield. Perfect for skiing and snowboarding families. They also have the Ohau Lodge.

Take a history lesson with a tour of the North Otago Museum, then check out the holiday activities at the Forrester Gallery and the Oamaru Library.

The Waitaki District has it all for your family these school holidays. For more information on events and places to eat and sleep visit www.visitoamaru.co.nz.

Advertising feature

Visit the Oamaru Blue Penguin Colony, and go to Shag Point and see the fur seal and yellow eyed penguin colonies before dusk.

Go to the Vanished World centre in Duntroon and follow the trail through the valley, then visit some key fossil sites.

Visit Steampunk HQ – and the Steampunk playground at Oamaru Harbour.

Take a swim at the Aquatic Centre.

Take the family challenge at the bowling alley.

The Oamaru Public Gardens offer a 13ha picnic spot, complete with playground- a great place to catch your breath while you prepare for the next item on your list.

Oamaru also has a reputation for attracting the world’s best to its shores. The New Zealand Offshore Boating Series arrives 30 June, the first time it has been held here in 30 years. And the California Youth Symphony, one of the finest youth orchestras in the

Photo courtesy of Rachel Wybrow

School Holiday Spells!

Mon 2nd July, Wed 4th July and Fri 6th July.

Meet at the Librar y 10.30am and then visit the magical world of The Word Witch at the Forrester Galler y. Ar t, books, poetr y, imagination, activities and fun for ever yone!

OAMARU

  Come into the i-SITE during the school holidays, follow the easy clues and WIN A PRIZE! (Open to all primary and intermediate school age children)

Come ride our bike

Open 7-days

30 www.familytimes.co.nz

Kid’s Pocketmoney table

Cnr Thames & Itchen Streets, Oamaru. Ph 03 434 1656

60 Thames Street, Oamaru 03 433 0852 museum@waitaki.govt.nz www.northotagomuseum.co.nz

Win a

Holiday Houses escape!* Enter our draw online and you could win

$500 worth of accommodation at one of our amazing holiday houses.

Top Stops

Britz campervan Like to get away for a weekend in a campervan? Family Times and Britz have a fantastic Britz short break to giveaway!

Pickup your camper on Friday from Christchurch or Auckland and return it on Sunday for a great family weekend away, valued at $296. Sleeps up to six people.

Prize must be used by 30 September.

Enter online at www.familytimes.co.nz or write your name and address on the back of an envelope or postcard and send to: Britz Campervan, PO Box 36 004, Christchurch,

market place WIN,WIN,

WIN!

to reach us by 13 July 2012. Check out our website for more fantastic competitions.

www.holidayhouses.co.nz/win Thousands of amazing holiday houses are available right now, but they fill up fast so don’t delay in booking a winter getaway for your family. *Terms and conditions available online at www.holidayhouses.co.nz/win

Enjoy some Family Time

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

And, of course Interislander looks after families with a range of great value fare options.

www.familytimes.co.nz

31

market place

Canterburyʼs newest visitor attraction!

Day Trips from Christchurch Canterbury’s newest visitor attraction!

Lunches

Country Kitchen Bakery

Kids Pack

Take the family for a day trip to Methven - just one hour from Christchurch!

Winter special - Kids 4 Free*

Camps livingsprings.co.nz ‘people living life’

Ham Roll, Raspberry Bun or Muffin, Chocolate Biscuit, Drink - Juice or Water

only $5.50

of “a real slic”e a kiwian

Childcare

Now available through

• Redwood primary • Northcote primary • Belfast Primary • Papanui Primary • Catering for all occasions • Homemade food 356B Main North Road • Redwood • Phone 352 8111

Open daily 10 - 5pm at the Methven Heritage Centre

And holiday programme Sunday 1 July – Friday 6 July 2012 Age 8 - 12yrs

An action-packed 5 day camp with heaps of cool activities and adventures.

For details of activities or to register visit..

interact - learn - explore. . .

www.livingsprings.co.nz

Drycleaning 160 Main Street, Methven. P:(03)302-9666 E: info@methvenheritagecentre.co.nz W: methvenheritagecentre.co.nz

or phone 03 329 9788

For Hire

Entertainment

Physiotherapy

REdEvElOpEd city yMcA

City Clinic YMCA Building

ph 961 0236 - see our website for details

Street entrance via 12 Hereford St

clinic nOw REOpEnEd

Offering quality services from a business that is well established and offers excellence and experience valid for city clinic only: Present this ad valued at $25*, we will waive the ACC part charge for the first appointment, valid for new accident-related injuries only. *conditions apply, valid until 30/09/12

www.musclepeople.co.nz Email. admin@musclepeople.co.nz

32 www.familytimes.co.nz

961 0236

Bishopdale Clinic YMCA

360 3606

YMCA Building

Email. admin2@musclepeople.co.nz

Photography

Beauty

Products

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market place Arts & Instruction

SMART Â Â MOVES Â CREATIVE DANCE

For more information visit www.smartmovesdance.co.nz Ph: (03) 351 7723 info@smartmovesdance.co.nz

For Hire

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Christchurch Central Hornby 03 377 3987 03 344 2200

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35

ANNUAL STAR SEARCH

NORTHLANDS STAR SEARCH NOW ON! Come down to Northlands Shopping Centre these school holidays to see some of the up and coming talent that Christchurch has to offer.

HEATS 11am & 1pm, 4th – 11th July SEMI FINALS 11am & 1pm, 12th & 13th July JUNIOR FINALS 11am, Saturday 14th July SENIOR FINALS 1pm, Saturday 14th July

55 Main North Road, Papanui, Christchurch, Phone (03) 352 6535

www.northlands.co.nz 36 www.familytimes.co.nz

Feels Good