Family Times - Dunedin - Summer 2012 by Twenty Seven Publishers

ISSN 1176 7952

DUNEDIN / ISSUE 54 / SUMMER 2012

news magazine and resource online resource AAnews magazine and online for familiesfor

10 families

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inside this issue From the editor O

4 Features 4 Over-praise vs. over-criticism

Keys to developing a positive but realistic attitude in your child.

5 Getting kids school ready

Resource information 6 Spirit of Christmas 8 Help is at hand

Set them up for success with a considered approach.

12 Calendar of events

6 Celebrating Christmas

13 Entertainment

We take a look at how different cultures in New Zealand celebrate Christmas.

7 Christmas traditions for families

18 Marketplace 18 School term dates

Parents Inc. co-founder Mary Grant talks about what really matters at Christmas.

23 Holiday savings

Enjoy Christmas without blowing your budget.

Comment 10 Kids’ view

We ask kids how they celebrate Christmas, and what it means to them.

ne thing I love about New Zealand is our multi-cultural society. There is so much richness in our diversity. Sure, we have a lot of pride in our Kiwi identity, but there’s plenty of room to embrace new Kiwis of various ethnicities that join us from all over the world. Multiculturalism is so much a part of us now that it’s almost easy to forget it wasn’t always that way. It was a big deal when a Japanese boy joined my class at school when I was a kid. We made a special effort to learn about his culture and traditions, and even practiced singing Sakura – Cherry Trees – in Japanese. Now kids a full spectrum of colour, race, and ethnicity fill the seats of our classrooms and their families are part of our communities. I’m not trying to paint a glossy picture of a perfect country. I realise that there are pockets of discontent and tension that erupt every now and then. But we are, according to the Global Peace Index, the second most peaceful country on Earth after Iceland. Whether it’s our remote location, our laidback, pragmatic identity, or the calming effect of living in a visual paradise, we actually get along pretty well together. Most of us take our peaceful, multicultural society for granted, but it’s worth reflecting on as we wrap up our year and celebrate Christmas with our friends and families. As I write this column, I’m in Jerusalem, Israel, literally a 10-minute drive from where Jesus was born and the first Christmas was celebrated more than 2000 years ago in Bethlehem, which is now

situated in the West Bank. I’ve been lucky enough to spend some time amongst the incredible people of this region – both Jew and Arab – and to see with my own eyes the toll that ongoing conflict takes on human beings. I’ve fallen in love with the intoxicating city of Jerusalem, but every time I fly back into Aotearoa I let out a sigh of relief: the peace is literally palpable. Nobody cares if I speak Hebrew or Arabic, if I wear a hijab or skinny jeans, if I’m black, white or brown. We’re all Kiwis. So this edition of Family Times we’ve decided to celebrate our diversity along with Christmas: our main feature on page six investigates how different cultures within New Zealand celebrate the silly season. Of course we’ve also got all of our regular features, entertainment ideas, parenting tips and loads of giveaways too, so take a break in the middle of the Christmas rush and enjoy a moment perusing the pages. A very Merry Christmas and Happy New Year from all of the Family Times team.

About Us Publisher Robyn Willis Design & Production Moody Shokry Advert Production Target Press Production Office Editor Vanessa O’Brien Assistant Editor Rachel Taniwha Digital editor Fiona Smith

Contributing Writers Rosanna Hill, Mary Grant Sophie Gray, Sarah Chisnall Wayne Webb, Crissi Blair Julie Moor Advertising Sales Caren Constable, Shona Robb, Nicky Barnett Jane Hunter, Tina Barriball, Katrina Wright Office Manager Raelyn Hay

Office Administrator Jackie Pithie

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

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Distribution: Printed and distributed quarterly approximately two weeks before each major school holiday. 43,431 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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feature story

Our country – many cultures celebrating Christmas Christmas is a special time: from the eager anticipation of Father Christmas’ arrival, to the hustle and bustle of the big day itself - it’s full of fun, family and festivities.

hether it’s a traditional Christmas full of gift-giving and fancy formal fare, or a casual beach barbecue, us Kiwis know how to celebrate in our own unique way. But those not born and raised here bring with them their own unique customs, traditions, and ways of celebrating. This edition, Family Times assistant editor Rachel Taniwha spoke with some non-kiwis living in New Zealand to discover what Christmas means to them.

Japan – a couple’s Christmas Sachiyo Joyce, originally from Japan, has now lived in New Zealand for seven months, following a previous stay of two-and-a-half-years in Christchurch. Joyce is married to a New Zealander, and said Christmas is an important time to spend with family. In Japan, Joyce says, Christmas is for couples, so if someone doesn’t have a partner, it’s not a fun time. But those lucky ladies with a man in their lives are set to be pampered. “Usually men provide expensive presents and a good restaurant for their girlfriend.” New Year’s is generally more important in Japan, however Christmas is celebrated: people decorate a Christmas tree (usually artificial), Father Christmas makes an appearance, and

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there is Christmas cake for dinner, although very different to what New Zealander’s have.

A cheesy Christmas in snowy Switzerland Susanne Ziswiler of Switzerland has lived in New Zealand for 15 years, and says that back home, Swiss people celebrate Christmas on Christmas Eve. “We had the following family tradition - Dad would take us children away swimming for the afternoon, while my mum would prepare the Christmas tree and decorate it. We never had the Christmas tree before the 24th of December. “She also got our dinner ready, so when my dad and we children got home, the whole house smelt wonderful. We would then have our dinner, which normally was cheese fondue, and once we finished my mum would go out of the room, light all the real candles on the Christmas tree and ring a bell that would indicate that the Christ child had arrived.” “It was a wonderful time of the year and we were all very excited to hear this little bell ring. As soon as the bell would ring, we would get up and go to the lounge and admire the Christmas tree with its candles. We would sing a few Christmas songs, eat oranges, mandarins, Christmas cookies and nuts and later on open

our Christmas presents.” Ziswiler remembers Christmas in Switzerland as a very special time. She loved having Christmas in winter, when lights on the streets would be decorated and lots of stars would hang from the lamp posts. “There was snow and we would light lots of candles during December and have lots of baking sessions for the special Christmas cookies. Because it was winter, we had more time to celebrate this special time of the year. I have lots of great memories, spending lots of time with my family and doing special things together.” She says her family back in Switzerland still

celebrates Christmas in a similar way.

French festivities

Frenchman Stephane Montel, 30, has lived in New Zealand for six years. He’s currently based in Christchurch but will spend Christmas with his partner’s family in Auckland this year. A Kiwi Christmas has a real “holiday” feel to it, he says - complete with barbecue and beer - which he’s adopted. Summer is “super busy” for him, so Christmas is the perfect opportunity to spend time with family, catch up with friends and have a “big feed”, give and receive presents, relax and have fun. But he still remembers the festive fare of a

feature story perfect French winter Christmas in his childhood – complete with snowfall on Christmas Eve. “There were big meals on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day - turkey, oyster, salmon, liver etc -three to four courses, plus cheeses, dessert and three or four different types of wine.”

A German Christmas – a day of togetherness and harmony German born and bred Christine Maierl, who has only been in New Zealand since late March this year, said Christmas back home was always celebrated the same way. Three weeks before Christmas they would buy a tree and decorate it with balls, straw stars and candles. When Christmas Day itself arrived, the first stop was church, and then a celebratory traditional German dinner of pork schnitzel and potato salad. Further celebrations included reading the bible, playing music together and sharing gifts. “We are not really dressed up but we wear nice clothes,” said Maierl. “Late in the evening we always eat vanilla ice cream with hot raspberry. On the first and second days of Christmas, usually we invite our family and we share food and time together.” Maierl says that Christmas has not really changed over the years for her – she learned to celebrate Christmas this way from her family and enjoys it. “When my children were young we celebrated Christmas only on one day together, with the entire family, but now we like to have our Christmas evening as a nuclear family, and we like to have lunch and afternoon tea with all family members one day later.” Christmas means a lot to Maierl as a person of Christian conviction: it celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ. For her and her family it is a quiet evening filled with harmony and calm.

“My family and I, we tried to keep this tradition because all of my family members like this way and it works.”

Non-Christmas celebrations While the countdown to Christmas here in New Zealand begins months in advance, with retail outlets rubbing their hands together in eager anticipation, for some cultures, different dates on the calendar have more importance and meaning. Judaism There are many Jewish feasts throughout the year, but it’s the celebration of Hanukah, the Festival of Lights, which falls in late November to early December. It’s observed for eight days and nights, with a candle lit on a special ninefingered menorah each consecutive evening. Many Jewish families exchange small gifts each night – such as books or games – and fried foods are eaten to commemorate the importance of oil during the celebration of Hanukkah. Islam Rini Pancaningsih, an Indonesian Muslim who has lived in New Zealand for 11 years, does not celebrate Christmas – instead he marks the two big festivals of Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha. Eid al-Fitr is celebrated after Ramadan, a month of fasting determined by the lunar calendar. “The last day before we finish fasting or before we go to pray, we have to give charity. After that we can visit friends and share foods, or do an open home,” he says. During Eid al-Adha, it’s traditional for wealthy families to have an animal slaughtered and to share the meat with anyone in need, to ensure that everyone participates in the celebration. By Rachel Taniwha, with assistance from English Language Partners Dunedin

The value of traditions I

love the Christmas season because of the sheer joy and celebration of the whole thing. But there is also often, along with the anticipation, a sense of anxiety and stress around it. So I always value the fact that some of our Christmas traditions create moments of calm, predictability and even joy amidst the many end-of-year functions and preparations. The lovely thing about traditions is that they communicate belonging. The knowledge that “We always do this,” is what makes traditions matter. Rituals that are repeated and familiar tell children they are significant as part of a family which stands for something. And when these traditions are based around faith and values, they give everyone a sense of transcendence; that there is something more than just materialism and ourselves as the centre of the universe. These sorts of traditions tend to involve thankfulness, generosity, kindness or other values that reflect the celebration of the announcement by the angels to the shepherds when Christ was born, that they brought “great tidings of joy” for everyone. Small regular traditions that are outward-looking tend to bring this joy. They might be as simple as having friends over for a Christmas drink and carols, wrapping a present for a child who is less fortunate and together taking it to put under an “angel tree”, or wrapping little bags of shortbread to take to neighbours and friends to wish them a happy

Christmas. These small rituals generate family love and togetherness and offer children the knowledge that it is “more blessed to give than to receive” as they participate in giving to others. According to the University of Sydney’s professor Patrick Parkinson, there are many alarming signs about the mental health of our young people today. Our children are privileged in many ways but in others they are deprived. Numerous surveys tell us that modern children want more than anything to spend more time with mum and dad. Christmas and the holidays are an opportunity to recalibrate a gentler pace for your family and to set the agenda positively for more connection and communication. You could read to your pyjama-clad children around the candlelit Christmas tree before bedtime, from favourite Christmas books (Papa Papanov was one of ours) or share around a campfire. Before your excited children go to bed on Christmas Eve, settle them around the Christmas tree with sparkling grape juice and Christmas mince pies and share your year’s favourite things, before saying a thank-you prayer. These are the simple rituals that our technologyoverloaded children need and will remember. By Mary Grant Mary Grant is a co-founder of Parents Inc. and current director of Faith4families, where she offers parents a simple ways of passing on faith to their children. www.faithbox.co.nz.

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yuletide

Spirit of

Christmas

 10 December-6 January Christmas is a magic time. Pixie Town. The classic Dunedin Christmas Enjoy the best the festive treat returns this year; watch mechanical pixies season has to offer with family getting up to all kinds of mischief. At Toitu Otago Settlers Museum, 10am-12pm and 1pmand friends.  1 December

Lighting of the Christmas tree. Be with your family and friends for this musical event bringing the spirit of Christmas to the city. Enjoy local entertainment and join in the singalong Christmas carols before the lighting of the largest Christmas tree in the South Island. Octagon, 8pm start. Green Island Christmas Market Day. Stroll through local stalls and find some great gifts. Green Island, 10am-1pm.

 3 December Operatunity Christmas Pantomime. Operatunity presents a brand new, fully original, mad Christmas Pantomime; tickets include lunch with the artists. Mosgiel Coronation Hall at 11am. Bookings essential, for tickets phone 0508-266-237. Food banks. Drop some goodies at your local food bank to help out in the community this Christmas. Donations can be made to the Salvation Army, Dunedin Anglican Family Care, St Vincent de Paul, Presbyterian Support, and the SPCA.

 5 December The Great New Zealand Santa Run. Watch Santas, elves, reindeer and other colourful Christmas characters hit the streets to raise money for KidsCan. At St Kilda Beach, John Wilson Ocean Drive, 6.30pm.

4pm (closed Christmas Day).

 17 December Wingatui Christmas at the Races. Enjoy a festive family day at the races with loads of free activities and fun for kids. Wingatui Racecourse, Mosgiel.

 17-23 December Sun Christmas Decorations. Make decorations for the beautiful pine Christmas tree - or take your decorations home. If you are able, please bring a can of food to put under the tree for the Christmas food bank appeal. Dunedin Art Gallery, 10am-4pm, free.

 17-24 December Santa at the Settlers. Santa will be on

hand, checking his list and taking Christmas requests. Toitu Otago Settlers Museum, 10am12pm and 1pm-4pm.

 20-24 December Santa’s Grotto in Animal Attic.

The lighting of the Christmas Tree in the Octagon kicks off the silly season. Photo by Chris Sullivan ©seenindunedin.co.nz tradition of bringing Christmas cheer, with a selection of songs to be sung in the gallery foyer. Dunedin Art Gallery, 12.30pm, free.

Share your Christmas wish-list with Santa, help his merry elves with Christmas activities in the workshop and have your face painted at the Victorian-inspired Christmas grotto. Otago Museum, 11am-4pm, free.

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NAUGHT?Y OR NICE OR BUY YOUR FAMILY UND RG MATES AN UNDE RO N IO IPT COFFEE SUBSCR THIS CHRISTMAS

Looking after pets like “One of the Family” Former All Black front rower Norm Hewitt may have hung up his rugby boots, but now he’s tackling animal cruelty as an ambassador for the RSPCA.

throughout New Zealand. The programme identifies and shares key messages about the benefits of caring for animals, the link between family violence and animal cruelty, and the choice each person makes to live free of violence. Hewitt says that by the age of 11, children develop a social conscience and can make the choice to treat animals with care and respect. He talks about his own violent childhood experiences within his family and how his animals became his best friends; the “safe place” he needed most. “We’re teaching them to be kind to animals, so they’ll grow up to respect others.” For more information, visit www.rnzspca. org.nz and www.oneofthefamily.co.nz.

Not just for Christmas – pets are for life!

ewitt and RSPCA national education coordinator Shelley Ryan have been presenting an empathy education programme “One of the Family,” to Year 7 and 8 students

“Taking care of a pet is a big responsibility and a lifelong commitment,” says Barry Helem, CEO at SPCA Canterbury. “Unfortunately many new pet owners are unprepared for the responsibility of owning a companion animal and as a result our animal centre cares for thousands of unwanted, sick, injured and abused pets every year.” SPCA Canterbury strongly urge all potential adopters to carefully consider their circumstances and capabilities before committing to pet ownership, to help decrease

“Having a pet is about more than just owning an animal. They become a vital and important member of your family, offering a lifetime of unconditional love and loyalty.” Barry Helem, CEO at SPCA Canterbury. these numbers. The SPCA website has a list of questions that help potential adopters to decide whether they are ready for the commitment. These include contemplating the ongoing costs, the time needed to care for an animal, and whether their home environment is suitable for a pet. “Matching the right animal with the right family is really important,” a RSPCA spokesperson said. “People will often come into the centre with clear expectations about the pet they want, but after discussing their lifestyle and circumstances, we can help them make sure that the animal they have in mind will suit their long term needs.” The SPCA adopt-a-pet service gives thousands of animals a second chance at a loving home. SPCA Canterbury offer a “no time limit” policy on all healthy animals available for adoption and are committed to

caring for them until they find new forever homes. “Having a pet is about more than just owning an animal,” said Helem. “They become a vital and important member of your family, offering a lifetime of unconditional love and loyalty.” If you would like to know more about adopting a pet from SPCA, or to view their available “adoptees”, visit www. spcacanterbury.org.nz or drop into the animal centre at 14 Wilmers Road, Hornby – open Monday to Saturday, 10am - 4pm.

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support services

Help is @ hand

Tips for Christmas savings Your Christmas event may not look very traditional, but traditions are simply things that become more significant and meaningful the more times you do them. Feasting is surely the best tradition in any culture. It’s also one of the most expensive, especially at Christmas when budgets stretch to the maximum. Kiwis are inclined to shop for Christmas as though preparing for a siege, so if you want keep it under control this year, identify the things that are the most important to your particular celebration. Do you include things in the family feast simply because they are “traditional” and not because any of you actually like them anymore? Are you overcatering out of habit or doing it all yourself when others would be happy to contribute? Some thoughtful analysis can leave you with more cash for the traditions that are really important to you and help avoid unnecessary excess. Don’t get me wrong, I love excess! One of the joys of Christmas for me is the anticipation of eating so much that I’ll need a little lie down, but it’s even more enjoyable when you aren’t still paying it off in June. Sharing the workload and expense is a fair

ometimes 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. Dunedin Budget Advisory Service Phone: 03-471 6158 Free confidential advice on personal budgets. How to manage your money, options and plans for debt repayment.

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and reasonable expectation, especially when everyone is stretched. Tell people well in advance what you need them to bring, and be specific. Rationalise the gift giving. Consider starting a tradition whereby gifts are only for the under 16’s, or names are drawn from hat so you buy only for the person or household whose name you drew. Consider putting a price cap on the cost

of gifts, suggesting adults only exchange homemade offerings, or only exchange gifts among immediate family. In years to come they simply won’t remember who gave what but they’ll always, always remember how we made them feel. So have a very Happy Christmas. By Sophie Gray, www.destitutegourmet.com.

baby & toddler

Water babies – the benefits of starting swimming young E

arly swim lessons set a positive foundation towards a lifetime of participation and enjoyment in a variety of water sports and time spent on, in and under the water. On the whole, a child who starts lessons early is far more relaxed and happy in the water, and in a country as water-loving as New Zealand, this is vital. The benefits of introducing your child to swimming lessons whilst still a baby are many, and include improved physical, emotional, social and cognitive development . Teaching your baby to swim might help them overcome their initial fear of water and provide a great excuse to have some fun and exercise at the same time, but it could have other benefits as well. Recently, researchers from Norway and Britain found that children who had taken baby swimming classes did better on tests involving gripping and reaching as well as balance, compared to children who had no experience swimming as babies. This helps their physical progress later in life as well, along with providing them with some essential social skills. Gross and fine motor skills are also strengthened and coordination and balance are enhanced in babies who enter the water early. For this reason, the younger your little one starts in lessons, the easier the transition is to enjoying the water. A baby who is used to being

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stationary can move about independently in the pool as they learn balance and coordination. The motion and sensation of the water gives them an awareness of self that otherwise would not be gained at such a young age, and sets them up for life. Additionally, early experiences in water allow little ones to better develop their psychomotor skills, because there they can move more freely and begin to understand concepts of distance and movement. Their cardio-respiratory system is also strengthened as the baby exercises his or her heart and lungs. A weekly swimming lesson

“For the right people, in the right situation, baby swimming can also nurture a special new connection to family, community and to the outer world.” is often a child’s first social experience out of the home that involves their peers. They learn to relate and interact with each other and look forward to seeing their classmates each week, and even watch them for cues when it comes to taking risks and learning something new. Early swimming also fosters a growing sense of selfesteem, confidence and independence, and as a child’s ability to freely move through the water increases - so does their sense of wellbeing. For the right people, in the right situation, baby swimming can also nurture a special new connection to family, community and to the outer world. Time spent having fun and learning new things in the pool is an ideal opportunity

La Leche League

Breastfeeding mothers and those interested in supporting mothers and babies to breastfeed are encouraged to attend the La Leche League conference in Ashburton in April. The conference presents a marvellous opportunity for learning and networking around breastfeeding. For more information check out the La Leche League website, www.lalecheleague.org.nz or email Marnie at conference2013@lalecheleague.org. nz. Meanwhile, if you need help with breastfeeding, La Leche League leaders are breastfeeding mothers who are trained to give accurate, up-to-date information and support. Dunedin La Leche League 03-4675599 or 03-476-1339.

for parent and child bonding in a relaxed and fun environment that they will both love being a part of. Social skills and self-esteem are developed through interaction with other children and positive encouragement from parents and any other family who watch them at swimming time, and your child will develop a trusting relationship with you at the same time. When parents spend time face-to-face, skin-to-skin with their babies in the water, it is a very special time for both parties. Their bond increases through the swimming lessons and parents can also exercise their patience, encouragement and kindness toward their little one. They will also learn more and more about their little person’s growing personality and how they approach new situations as they are challenged more and more. By Northern Arena, www.northernarena.co.nz, 09-421-9700.

Plunket Otago - Bath mats: a reminder to keep kids safe around water Plunket and Water Safety New Zealand have combined on a drowning prevention project, providing non-slip bath mats with a clear water safety message to Plunket families at the five-month Well Child Check. Now in year three, the bath mat project has seen more than 170,000 bath mats with the message: “Always supervise children around water…always,” “Tiakina nga tamariki ki te taha wai i nga wa katoa,” handed to

Plunket families throughout New Zealand. Discussion about water safety takes place when the mat is handed over. Remember: • Maintain hand contact with baby at bath time. • Take your baby or toddler with you if you have to leave the bath room, even for a second. • Don’t allow older children to supervise baby in the bath, an adult needs to be there too.

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Rosanna Lister from Family Times asked students from Bradford School about how they celebrate Christmas and asked them to share their family traditions.

Gracie Ruri, age 5

We usually go out to dinner at a friend’s house and have a sleepover there, then have a picnic in the morning. I like getting presents from Santa; I leave a pillow case at the end of my bed for Santa to put presents in. My Nan hid presents under her bed, but we found them and now they are somewhere else. We go to church and I stay up late - until 9 o’clock.

Family Fun at the races

Mina Unal, age 7

First we go shopping to get Christmas food; Turkish people don’t eat pork so we have sheep or chicken. Dad puts our presents under the tree and we eat dinner before we open our presents. I like family time; we haven’t got our family in New Zealand so we talk to them on the computer. We have special Turkish traditions: kids have to kiss an adult’s hand and they get money or lollies.

Moana Takataka, age 8

Tongans celebrate Christmas at night time. Christmas means family; lots of family come over and we have cake and a pig that we killed. We cook it over a fire in the ground; we put a stick through the pig and turn it so it cooks properly. After we open our presents we say a prayer to say thanks. Last time I decorated the tree and it fell over so I don’t want to do that again.

“It was an awesome day. A cheap way to entertain the kids for the day while I relaxed and hung out in the sun with family and friends”

Reyana Barringer-Tairi, age 11

We go to dad’s house on the farm with my brothers and sisters and have a big roast dinner with cousins and aunties and uncles. We open our presents there in the morning but we have to wait for dad to come back from milking and he hands out the presents. We don’t go to church or celebrate the Christmas story; everyone is about the presents and the food.

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.

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WIN, WIN,

WIN!

thursday 27 December - gore racecourse sunday 30 December - kurow racecourse tuesday 1 January - Waikouaiti racecourse Wednesday 2 January - omakau racecourse thursday 3 January - omakau racecourse Friday 4 January - roxburgh racecourse sunday 6 January - cromwell racecourse saturday 19 January - gore racecourse

Beywheelz Crash Course Battle Set

40 events nationwide from 26 Dec - 9 Feb For more information visit:

10 www.familytimes.co.nz

Battle three ways with the spinning Beywheelz battlers in this awesome crash course battle set. This set has everything you need to launch into spectacular crash, stunt or race battles. Practice your skills or take on your friends. Either way, this gear puts you in charge of a big-time Beywheelz smack down! We have five Beywheelz Crash Course Battle Sets to give away!

The Word Witch by Margaret Mahy and Margaret Mahy, A Writer’s Life

The Word Witch is the ultimate collection of Margaret Mahy’s much-loved poems and stories in rhyme. Each of the 66 pieces is accompanied by a poignant illustration by one of New Zealand’s best, David Elliott. This new paperback edition includes a CD with Margaret reciting 12 poems. Margaret Mahy, A Writer’s Life was first published in 2005 to critical acclaim. Now, seven years on, it has been fully updated and republished. Enter now for the chance to win one of fifteen packs of these books that we have to give away.

Rasa School of Dance What is your favourite summer food? We’d love to see a drawing of your favourite summer food! Draw us a picture of what tickles your tastebuds most in the summer months and be in to win an amazing $50 prize pack from Crayola!

Hip hop, break dance, Bollywood, contemporary, tap, jazz for kids, retro jazz for adults and over 60s – Rasa has dance classes for all ages and abilities. Information for the 2013 enrolment day will be on the Rasa phone 03477-8288 and website www.danz.org.nz/rasa.

php in early January. Are you unsure which class to enrol in? Don’t worry – just come along to an enrolment day and speak with an experienced teacher about what you are interested in. Rasa’s 2012 show For the Love of It is at the Regent Theatre on Sunday 9 December at 6pm. Book through Ticket Direct and the Regent Theatre.

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 28 January 2013.

Congratulations to our Whanau Design Competition winners from our last issue:

LARNACH CASTLE New Zealand’s only Castle

Ruby Keomany, age 4

Jessica Zhang, Auckland, Age nine – 12 years

Misha Simpson, Auckland, Age five – eight years

Rui Yi Ong, age 6

WIN, WIN,

WIN!

Shekinah Harendra Pratap, age 10

OPEN DAILY FROM 9AM • Award Winning Attraction • Accommodation options available • Garden of International Significance • Excellent collection of NZ Antiques • Café and Gift Shop

Phone 03 476 1616 Email: larnach@larnachcastle.co.nz www.larnachcastle.co.nz

WIN, WIN,

WIN!

Take a breath...

Soak up the view www.tekaposprings.co.nz

My Little Pony Royal Wedding Castle

Tekapo Springs Why not take the family to Lake Tekapo this summer? Tekapo Springs is open 10am-9pm 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, skate around the outdoor rink or let gravity take you down the new summer tube park. We have a family pass for two adults and up to three children (18 years) to give away.

Princess Cadance and Shining Armor are getting married at the castle! Ponies from all over Equestria can’t wait to go to the royal wedding. This castle play set comes with bride and groom pony figures, butterfly, comb, two teacups, teapot, wedding cake, table, bouquet, piano, purse, tuxedo, groom crown, bride crown, dress, two rings, necklace, chandelier and sticker labels. We have five to give away!

Just tick the things you want to win SUMMER 2012

 My Little Pony Royal Wedding Castle  Beywheelz Crash Course Battle Set  The Word Witch by Margaret Mahy

Name Address

 Tekapo Springs

City Phone

and Margaret Mahy, A Writer’s Life

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, PO Box 36 004, Christchurch to reach us by 28th January 2013, unless stated otherwise. Only one entry per household.

LIVE BUTTERFLY EXPERIENCE... INSIDE THE OTAGO MUSEUM! 419 Great King Street, Dunedin

OPEN 7 DAYS 10am – 5pm

www.otagomuseum.govt.nz www.familytimes.co.nz

cool activities

Calendar of Events G

et active, grab a bargain, see thrills and spills, watch fireworks, concerts or share some culture this summer in Dunedin. 1 December

Spring into Summer- family walk and fun day. Register your family for the fun walk or come along for the picnic and activities including games and races, giant slide and more. Dunedin North Intermediate School and walk to Forrester Park, 10.30am. For details visit www.chatbus.org.nz.

14 December Chatbus Trust Street Day Appeal. Chatbus provides a free mobile counselling service for children under 14-years. All funds raised will be used to provide counselling time for the children of Dunedin.

29 December 2012-6 January 2013

Arthurs Pass National Park Summer Programme. Join the Department of Conservation for guided walks, telemetry and lots of family fun. Phone 03-318-9211 or visit www.doc.govt.nz.

31 December New Year’s Eve Concert. See in 2013 with live performances by Cougar Zoo, The Foxy Tones and Bluestone. At The Octagon, 8pm12pm. Visit www.dunedin.govt.nz/events for further details.

1 January

Interislander Summer Festival Waikouaiti Races. Relax into the New Year at the races with plenty of activities to entertain all ages. At Waikouaiti Racecourse.

25 January Nitro Circus Live. Thrill your family daredevils with a brand new performance from incredible action sports stars. Forsyth Barr Stadium, 6.30pm. For tickets and information visit www.forsythbarrstadium.co.nz or phone 0800-24-64-64.

9 February Thieves’ Alley Market Day. Enjoy a superb day of stalls and entertainment as the centre city transforms into a bustling market place. At Octagon and surrounds, 10am-4pm. For details visit www.dunedin.govt.nz/events. Lion Dance: The Lion Dance will be performed in conjunction with Chinese New Year. Visitors can then stroll down to the Chinese Gardens to begin the celebrations for Chinese New Year including a fireworks display. Dunedin Public Art Gallery, 4.30pm, free.

9-12 February Chinese New Year: Enjoy activities to

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A special lion dance performance for Chinese New Year celebrations. Photo by Chris Sullivan ©seenindunedin.co.nz. celebrate the Year of the Snake. Main evening fireworks and performances will be on Sunday 10 February at Dunedin Chinese Garden. For details visit www.dunedin.govt.nz/events.

15 February Anything But Books Sale: Pick up some great bargains including DVDs, CDs, games, jigsaws, sheet music, videos, cassettes, LPs, 45s and bric-a-brac. At Regent Theatre, 3pm-9pm.

26 February Café Hauora. Free public seminar, “Your genes and the effects of vitamin D deficiency and sugars.” Dunedin North Intermediate School, 7pm. Limited childcare spaces available, email projecthauora@gmail.com for more information.

3 March Weetbix Kiwi Kids Tryathlon: A fantastic fun day for kids to get fit and have a go: running, swimming and cycling. At Memorial Park, Mosgiel. To register and for more information visit www.

tryathlon.weetbix.co.nz/my-location/dunedin.

16 March Columba College annual school fair: A fun fair day with all the usual suspects, at Columba College campus, 399 Highgate, 11.30am-2pm.

26 March Café Hauora. Free public seminar, “Improving our children’s overall health and well being.” Dunedin North Intermediate School, 7pm. Limited childcare spaces available, email projecthauora@gmail.com for more information.

30 April Café Hauora. Free public seminar “Reducing chronic conditions -the benefits of physical activity,” Dunedin North Intermediate School, 7pm. Limited childcare spaces available, email projecthauora@gmail.com for more information. Compiled by Rosanna Hill

cool activities

Entertainment D

unedinites are spoiled for choice with plenty of activities to enjoy all summer long.  Dunedin Botanic Gardens

Explore three new children’s self-guided garden quizzes available from the info centre, open daily 10am till 4pm. Plus enjoy a concert in the sun on selected Sundays between January and April. Visit www.dunedin.govt.nz/ events.

movie and session information visit www.rialto. co.nz or phone 03-474-2200.

 Taieri Gorge Railway Two or more departures per day. Visit Pukerangi, Middlemarch and The Seasider plus the new Dunedin Silver Fern, running short trips to Waitati every cruise ship day. Contact TGR on 03-477-4449 or reserve@taieri.co.nz.

 Kiwi Ranger A fun way for families to explore our special places. Pick up a booklet and do the activities to earn your Kiwi Ranger badge. Search www. doc.govt.nz/kiwiranger or kiwiranger.org.nz.

 Dunedin Public Art Gallery

 Canterbury Museum

Sun Detail Detective: Bring all your detective skills to the ground floor exhibitions and find the details from the artworks. Cadbury chocolate prizes for all participants. From 22 December-27 January.

Housed in an exquisite historic building, Canterbury Museum is world renowned for its natural and human history collections. Go to www.canterburymuseum.com or phone 03366-5000.

 Dunedin Public Libraries

 Larnach Castle

Go Wild Summer Reading Programme 2012-13: How many books can you read this summer? Pick up a fun free booklet at your local library. Reach your goal and win a prize! From 15 December-27 January.

 Edgar Centre The Edgar Centre is the ideal place to bring the family over your holiday break! Shoot some hoops, kick some goals, or have a game of cricket or tennis. Phone 03-456-1200.

 Otago Museum Brace yourself in January as the holidays turn to doom! Explore all things troublesome with science shows, a thorny trail and outlandish antics. Visit www.otagomuseum.govt.nz for details.

 Rialto Bring the kids to see the best movies at Rialto Cinemas these school holidays. See a 3D movie with Rialto’s 3D family passes. Special: bring your Family Times voucher and get $2 off! For

Discover New Zealand’s only castle; grand architecture, spectacular tower views and magical gardens complete this enjoyable award winning experience. Visit www.larnachcastle. co.nz, or contact 03-476-1616, larnach@ larnachcastle.co.nz

Holiday Specials Special activities to keep the kids occupied and entertained.

 Blue Line Music Studio Exciting song-writing, recording and performance workshops running during the weekends of December. Visit www. bluelinemusicstudio.co.nz or email info@ bluelinemusicstudio.co.nz to find out more.

 Rasa Dance Thinking about joining a dance class in 2013? Come along to information days over January and find out which style of dance interests you.

The Edgar Centre

The Edgar Centre is a busy and popular destination for many Dunedin families. It offers a range of sporting opportunities and events, and it really is “all going on at the Edgar Centre!” The centre’s ever popular children’s birthday parties are guaranteed to be a hit with the kids, and there is a range of birthday activities to suit any budget. Call Sarah to discuss the many

options. From a casual game of tennis to getting a team practice in, the opportunities are endless at The Edgar Centre. Preschool groups and mums and dads with kids are becoming frequent users during the day, given the Edgar Centre’s handy location, good parking and ample space. The Edgar Centre is also a convenient Ticket Direct outlet.

Direct from London, Canterbury Museum is New Zealand’s only venue for the internationally-acclaimed touring exhibition Scott’s Last Expedition. Photo: H. Ponting, Pennell Collection, Canterbury Museum. For details visit www.danz.org.nz/rasa.php, the Rasa School of Dance facebook page, or phone 03-477-8288.

January 7 - 12, January 14 - 19, January 21 - 26. Please contact: Annette Godman, Annette@ watersafety.org.nz.

 Project Hauora

 Elwing Discoveries

Christmas classes are running on 19 and 20 December, 9.30am-3pm. Other classes will run on demand during the holidays; Saturdays and evening classes. For further information or to register contact project.hauora@gmail.com or phone 03- 473-9027.

Stewart Island Holiday Adventure. Boat life experience, education, boating education courses, sail, kayak, snorkel, and explore! For dates and details www.elwing. co.nz or phone 034811040.

 Interislander Summer Festival Races Free entry and family on-course activities at the Summer Festival Races. Venues around Dunedin. Visit www.the races.co.nz/summerfestival for details. hauora@gmail.com or phone 03- 473-9027.

 Otago Yachting Try sailing! The 5 day programme covers water safety, an introduction to sailing and having fun in the water! Funded by Water safety NZ. Limited spaces available!! Dates are: December 17 - 21,

 Volunteering Otago Free School Holiday Programme, MondayFriday 10:00am-3:00pm. Make friends, learn skills, and have fun! To register or query contact Heather 03 471 6206 or email dunedinyouthvolunteering@gmail.com

 Swim FX Holiday swimming lessons with Swim FX Swim School, from 14-18 January 2013 and 21-25 January 2013. Contact Sue MacLaurin 03-4771730 for bookings or email swimfx@clear.net.nz Compiled by Rosanna Hill

Feel the heat this summer at Otago Museum Take a trip to the tropics this summer at Dunedin’s very own Tropical Forest. Enter a lush, living paradise teeming with spectacular live butterflies and other hot-weatherhappy inhabitants including geckos, finches, tarantulas and turtles. For early birds, there is a special treat in-store: help release the newly emerged butterflies every morning at 10.30am and watch as they take flight for the very first time. Then, explore the magical properties of mirrors! Featuring more than 20 interactive

exhibits, Mirror Magic explores the science of reflections and reflected light. Experiment with convex, concave, multiple and moving mirrors, and delve deeper with the special science show on Saturdays and Sundays at 11am and 3pm. Otago Museum is open daily 10am-5pm: closed Christmas Day. Entry to the museum is by donation and there is an admission charge for Discovery World Tropical Forest – includes Mirror Magic exhibits. Visit www. otagomuseum.govt.nz.

BENNETT SCHOOL

of Ballet and Jazz To instil a love and enjoyment of dance

Principal - Shona Bennett King Edward Court Building, 261-291 Stuart St, Dunedin Phone: 03) 453-0639 bennettballetandjazz@xtra.co.nz www.bennettballetandjazz.co.nz

Tuition available: • 3-4 yrs old Movement classes • 5 yrs and over Classical Ballet and Jazz • Adults Classical Ballet and Jazz

www.familytimes.co.nz

craft corner

Needle-felted Christmas decorations Needle felting is an easy, affordable and fun craft for boys, girls, teens and adults. Everyone who tries it loves the colours and textures that can be achieved, and the technique can be used to embellish clothing and make flat or 3D items. The main tool for this craft is a special needle that is barbed: it is these barbs that lock the fibres together and although it sounds dangerous, most children are quite controlled when they use such a needle. You will have just as much fun as your children if you try this together. You will need: • Needle-felting needle (available from Hands for $2 each) • Small amount of carded wool or sliver • Small foam block • Cookie cutter • Optional: thread or cord to hang your decoration

Push the barbed needle through the wool into the foam block and continue this “jabbing” motion. The needle needs to go straight up and down otherwise you may break the needle. You will see the fibre start to felt down into the mould onto the foam. This is important so the felt does not fuse with the foam. Make sure you work into any corners. You can add more bits of fibre at any stage to fill in gaps.

Your business could been seen in this space

Place cookie cutter on block of foam and then fill this with carded wool. Do not cut the wool; just pull the fibres apart to make smaller pieces.

Once the wool has felted down a bit, lift the cutter and gently pull the felting off the foam. Flip it over and put back into the cutter and needle felt more.

Once it is finished, you can add decoration by needle-felting on small dots, or even yarn can be needled on to make thin lines. You can also sew or glue on beads. If you wish to hang your decoration, thread cord or ribbon through the top.

Please contact us to discuss 0800 28 5510 admin@ familytimes.co.nz

By Sarah Chisnall, Hands Craft Store manager, Christchurch. For further details, enquiries and craft blog visit www.handscraftstore.com.

Little Wonders St Kilda Little Wonders St Kilda works hard to support its community’s values. One important community value is healthy lifestyles, so its four-year-olds have been learning about healthy food and nutrition. To celebrate this learning focus, families will participate in a shared meal in which the children get to show their parent the recipe book that they have been working on. Three-year-olds at Little Wonders St Kilda have been learning about new life, and are going on a farm visit to look at the spring lambs. They have also hatched a chicken and have been caring for a tadpole. Every room has a learning focus, so your child will participate in planned learning experiences that encourage group and individual learning.

14 www.familytimes.co.nz

Little Wonders takes advantage of being close to the beach and many parks by taking children for walks, and local members of the community contribute to its programme. Its playground has been designed to complement the local environment with sand and water features, as well as to present children with physical challenges. Parents are encouraged to form a close relationship with the teachers at Little Wonders St Kilda. Teachers like to fill parents in on their child’s day-to-day doings and regularly make contributions to each child’s individual learning record. There is a Facebook page to keep parents up-to-date with notices and what the children have been doing.

games

Which games platform should I buy?

question I get asked a lot as a gamer - and a parent - is “which console is the best?” This can be a divisive and entrenched conversation among serious gamers who already know what each and every device is capable of. But for non-gamer parents, this is often a serious question. After all, if you are going to buy one you want to make sure you buy the right one. However, like all seemingly simple questions,

“Game consoles all do one thing very well: they play games. That is the main purpose of the device, so often the question is not one of capability but of value for money, and of what else it is capable of.” there is not one simple answer. Game consoles all do one thing very well: they play games. That is the main purpose of the device, so often the question is not one of capability but of value for money, and of what else it is capable of. The three big consoles you can chose from are The Playstation 3, The XBox 360 and the Nintendo Wii. Each of these has pluses and minuses and come with added extras or features that can complicate your decision (or make it easier).

Playstation 3

Your choice is relevant to what you want the device to do. If you are looking for top-of-theline games that really push the ability of gaming then the Playstation 3 and the Xbox 360 are the best. If you want a games console that is mostly fun with loads of interactivity and aimed at a younger audience, then the Wii is probably more your speed (though the other two also cater to younger gamers). If you want the device to be more than a gaming machine, then your choice is in what else the machine does, and again this is the choice between the Playstation 3 and the Xbox 360. Both of these devices have wireless connectivity and play movies from the hard disc or from the drive, but the PS3 plays Blu Rays and DVDs while the Xbox 360 plays DVDs only. All three of the devices support motion detection, but with the Wii this is a core concept and how the device works in all models. On the PS3 and the X Box you can get either the Kinect system or the PS Move systems that are optional extras to get this function. It really depends on what you want to do and

Nintendo Wii

X Box 360 how much you want to pay. They all play games and they all do their jobs very well in different ways. You may also want to see what you children’s friends or relatives have, because if they are going to swap games they have to have the same kind of console for the games to work. If you’re still not sure, ask your kids - I’m sure they’ll have an opinion and may already know which one they think is best. Price

What console do I have? I have all of them and the handheld versions as well, but then again I work in the games industry. By Wayne Webb Wayne Webb is a community services manager for SmallWorlds - an online gaming site that caters to a 13 plus age range - an avid technology fiend and the father of two children who also love “screen things”.

(depending on extras)

Capability

Motion detection

Blu Ray/DVD

Playstation 3

$350-$500

High

Added extra

Both

X Box 360

$350-$500

High

Added extra

DVD only

Nintendo Wii

$240-$400

Moderate

In all models

Neither

Console

Playcentre - learning through play Have you tried Playcentre? There are 37 Playcentres providing quality early childhood education to preschoolers in rural and urban communities across the entire Otago region. Playcentre is eligible for 20 hours free ECE, and fulfils the government’s recently announced early childhood education obligations for beneficiaries with preschoolers. At Playcentre, children learn through play in a mixed-age setting, with great adult-tochild ratios. It provides quality, fun, halfday education sessions for preschoolers, from birth until school, alongside parental

education and support. Playcentre is a family organisation. It values and affirms parents as the first and best educators of their children. It empowers adults and children to work, play, learn and grow together. It honours Te Tiriti o Waitangi and celebrates people’s uniqueness. Playcentre works to strengthen whanau and enrich communities. To find a Playcentre near you, check out www.otagoplaycentre.org.nz or call the Otago Playcentre Association free phone, 0800-488-3932.

www.familytimes.co.nz

P TO D A S

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

Picture Books The Quentin Blake Treasury By Quentin Blake Johnathon Cape 2012 Hardback $49.99 ● The much-honoured Quentin Blake has been creating children’s books since 1968, and every one is a timeless gem. This collection has nine picture books and lots of rhymes, all with Blake’s loose pen and watercolour illustrations full of action and humour. This treasury will be a great asset to any family library for reading aloud to children from babyhood on.

Great Galloping Galoot By Stephanie Thatcher Scholastic, 2012 Paperback $19.50 ● Galoot is a clumsy giraffe whose friends are always laughing at him and calling him a “great galoot.” But his parents tell him to “walk tall, run fast and always be your best.” When the bridge over the river is washed away the other animals all despair, but Galoot is sure he can make it across. Ages 3-8 years.

Mouse Mansion: Sam & Julia By Karina Schaapman Allen & Unwin 2012 Hardback $30 ● Anyone who loves dollhouses and the like will love this large-scale picture book. The illustrations have been created using models of more than 100 rooms and their contents and characters. Sam and Julia (little mice) live in the same apartment building: Julia with just her mum and Sam with his big family. They have lots of adventures in the course of their everyday lives. Beautifully crafted. Ages 4-10.

16 www.familytimes.co.nz

Junior Fiction Sir Mouse to the Rescue By Dirk Nielandt Illustrated by Marjolein Pottie Translated by Laura Wilkinson Book Island 2012 Hardback $24.99 ● Little Mouse is dressed up as a brave knight with armour and a sword, but she doesn’t fight Dragon because they’re best friends. Mouse is bossy and dramatic and Dragon very tolerant. There’s plenty of excitement and terrific dialogue. The interactions between the characters are hilarious and very like the way children like to play themselves. Ages six plus.

Rabbit By Margaret Beames Illustrated by Ian McNee Scholastic 2012 Paperback $19.50 ● Jack longs for a dog but when his birthday comes he’s given a rabbit instead. At first, he’s disappointed, until he discovers that his pet has a special talent. His nosy neighbour discovers the secret, which leads to the rabbit being stolen by a mad scientist for experimentation and a dramatic rescue mission takes place. An exciting read involving animal cruelty issues. Ages 6-9.

My Happy Life By Rose Lagercrantz Eva Eriksson Translator Julia Marshall Gecko Press 2012 Paperback $19.99 ● Dana is a happy girl, although she worries that she won’t make friends when she starts school. She does make a friend and all is well until changes happen and then she wonders if she will ever be happy again. Sweet line drawings capture Dana’s cheery character. Great for early readers or read aloud. Ages 6-9.

Intermediate Fiction Maddy West and the Tongue Taker By Brian Falkner Illustrated by Donovan Bixley Walker Books Australia 2012 Paperback $22.99 ● Maddy can speak every language in the world, even ancient ones no longer spoken. After her mother organises for Maddy to appear on a TV show, she is invited to travel overseas to translate some ancient scrolls. Soon she’s on a wild adventure, along with a curious monkey and her friend who thinks he is a ninja. Exciting reading, captured in animated black and white illustrations. Ages 9-12.

Liar & Spy By Rebecca Stead Text Publishing 2012 Paperback $21 ● Georges moves into a new apartment and is befriended by Safer, who spies on the building’s occupants and recruits Georges to help find out what one mysterious resident is up to. Georges is also welcomed into Safer’s family home as Georges’ dad is often off visiting his wife at the hospital, supposedly working long shifts. There is more than one mystery threaded into this tender story about friendship and facing your fears. Ages 9-12.

Dead Harry Ken Catran Scholastic 2012 Paperback $19.50 ● Sam is shocked when his friend Harry suddenly dies, but he’s even more startled when Harry’s ghost appears, saying that he was murdered and that Sam has to find out who did it and why. He’s joined in the mystery by the class geek, Anna. Compelling reading with a nicely turned plot that keeps you guessing until the end. Ages 9-12.

Knowledge books Unbored: The Essential Field Guide to Serious Fun Joshua Glenn & Elizabeth Foy Larsen Bloomsbury USA 2012 Hardback $36.99 ● This fat book is packed with so many activities, ideas and information that it would be difficult to imagine ever saying “I’m bored” again. Indoors, outdoors, online and offline, there are instructions for things to make and do, ideas about the world to think about, and projects to get on with including a no-sew soft toy, a drink bottle bike exhaust and homealone meals. Ages 7-adult.

100 Amazing Tales from Aotearoa Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa Te Papa Press 2012 Paperback / DVDs $34.99 ● This book is based on the TV series Tales from Te Papa and includes DVDs of the series. Treasures from Te Papa collections are shown in colour photos with fact panels and comprehensive text about each item. Some gems include racehorse Phar Lap’s skeleton, a mummy and her coffin, and recycled plastic art. A fine assortment of the weird and wonderful from our national museum. Ages 9-adult.

Sirocco the Rock Star Kakapo By Sarah Ell Random House, 2012 Paperback $24.99 ● Sirocco was taken from his mother as a sick chick on Codfish Island. He was hand-reared and became very attached to humans, which has led to him becoming an ambassador for his endangered species. Incredible photographs show every stage of Sirocco’s growth. There is an abundance of information in easy-to-read bites with full bleed photographs and fact panels.

Over-praise vs over-criticise. T

here is a growing voice in New Zealand and overseas that the emphasis over the past few decades on affirming the individual and on individual rights has not necessarily led to a better society. We have a society where “me” has become more important than “we” and where there is a concerning sense of entitlement. There is no doubt that affirming the individual and the building of a feeling of selfworth is an important part of growing up to become a healthy, competent and worthwhile member of society. A child who is constantly criticised, who is forever striving to please parents or teachers but meets only negativity, who cannot see his or her place in the world as valuable, is a child who is unlikely to lead a fulfilled life. But at the other extreme is the child who has lived in the golden glow of praise and affirmation, who has no doubt in his or her abilities, skills and entitlement. Somewhere along the road this child is in for a rude shock. Will they have the ability to deal with rejection, with relationship issues, with failure or uncertainty? There is fortunately the middle road of the majority. This is the territory of sensible support, of encouragement, of letting our young people know they are loved despite mistakes or goals not met, of encouraging an awareness that that they are part of a society where individual rights have to be finely balanced with community needs. There are subtle ways in which we allow

our children to get an unrealistic view of themselves. Children know false or misdirected praise when they see or hear it. They know when their maths or writing is not up to standard. Some reports I have read do nothing but praise, but when the surface is scratched there is a child who is struggling. A sense of self-worth is better served by clear indications about what he or she can do to improve, by what help will be useful and by some honesty so that they and their parents are living in a

“A child who is constantly criticised, who is forever striving to please parents or teachers but meets only negativity, who cannot see his or her place in the world as valuable, is a child who is unlikely to lead a fulfilled life.” realistic world. We all want to surround our children with a protective shield that deflects disappointment, that offers excuses when things don’t fall exactly in the right way, that tries to make things right. But surely it is better for our children to grow up learning to deal with life’s bumps and unfairness, to learn to accept these things with grace and a determination to move forward, to learn to work with others and to know when to concede. Australian motivational speaker Robyn Moore echoes this when she says “life’s not fair - accept it.” Her dead cat example resonated

Blue Line Music Studio Create. Record. Play. Blue Line Music Studio is a contemporary music teaching and recording studio that aims to bring out the best in young people through education in guitar, bass, drums, piano, singing, songwriting, recording and even bagpipes! The experienced staff encourage creativity and knowledge of the industry through instrument lessons, specialised workshops, band development and recording programs. The studio is located at 42 Filluel Street, behind the Wall Street Mall, and features recording suites, band practice spaces, quality gear and much more. Next year

promises to be an exciting year, with quality instrument lessons, awesome workshops and recording programmes continuing, as well as brand new band lessons and development, opportunities to meet, play and perform with other young musicians, new workshops, and opportunities to record. So come along and get your music out there. For more information or to register for workshops and lessons visit: www. bluelinemusicstudio.co.nz or email info@ bluelinemusicstudio.co.nz.

with me: some things are a dead cat, and we can’t as parents or educators change that to make it right. If we constantly try to make things right in our children’s worlds - whether it is team selection, friendships, class placement or misdemeanours - we do not teach them to take responsibility and to work through the tough things. We do not teach them that, despite the fact that they might see themselves as centre stage, they are part of a cast of thousands. As adults, we do young people a disservice by telling them the world is their oyster if we do not continue the conversation with the fact that a lot of hard work, time and sacrifice will be required to achieve their dreams and that a sense of community and a generosity of spirit is the pearl. Increasingly in these less-than-ideal times school and university leavers are finding life can be tough and opportunities do not abound. We need to equip them with the grit to deal with this, and grit is developed through facing life’s realities. Employers want, among other things, team players; people with a work ethic and who build positive relationships; who are realistic and self-reflective and who accept and grow from disappointment, defeat and obstacles. This is in no way to detract from the importance of the individual. It is, as always, about balance. As Martin Luther King put it, “An individual has not started living until he can rise above the narrow confines of his individualistic concerns.” By Julie Moor Julie Moor is the principal of Rangi Ruru Girls’ School.

Jumping Beans Otago

Dunedin children can now join Jumping Beans on a Saturday. Jumping Beans is an exciting programme designed especially for Kiwi kids to aid physical, social and intellectual development. Local Dunedin owner and operator Sally Warlow taught primary school for 10 years and saw many children who struggled with learning. “Often learning and behaviour difficulties can be traced back to simple but overlooked physical development,” she said. Jumping Beans classes use exercise to develop physical skills such as balance, co-ordination and concentration. They help children to learn problem solving skills while enhancing confidence, physical well-being and teaching safety and social skills. Physical activi-Jumping Beans Otago is taking enrolments for classes in Roslyn and Mornington. Full details are available on the website.

Please see our website or get in touch for more info Contact us (03) 425 0706 Phone: Email: info@bluelinemusicstudio.co.nz Address: 42 Filleul Street, Dunedin

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Scott’s Last Expedition

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Direct from London, Canterbury Museum is excited to be New Zealand’s only venue for the internationally-acclaimed touring exhibition Scott’s Last Expedition, 23 November 2012 – 30 June 2013. One hundred years after its tragic end, Scott’s last expedition to the Antarctic still resonates as a fantastic tale of endeavour and courage. When Scott embarked on the former whaling ship Terra Nova during his second journey to explore the Antarctic in 1910, he could not have predicted it would be his last. Tragically, he and four of his comrades died on their return from the South Pole two years later. Developed in association with the Natural History Museum, London, and the Antarctic

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Heritage Trust, the exhibition Scott’s Last Expedition uncovers Scott the man, the team he brought with him to Antarctica and the details of the fascinating Terra Nova expedition. Visitors will be able to explore this historic and emotional journey from every angle through engaging experiences. Scott’s Last Expedition reunites real artefacts used by Scott and his team with the rare scientific specimens they collected during the 1910-1913 expedition, for the first time since their epic journey in Antarctica. The exhibition opens to the public at Canterbury Museum on Friday 23 November 2012. For more information visit www.canterburymuseum.com.

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Pregnant? Have you thought of sharing this special time with a student midwife?

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The focus for our first year midwifery students is to ‘follow through’ pregnancy, birth and early weeks at home, with women and their families – the role being that of a companion/support person. Our students enjoy these experiences, which provide their best learning opportunities. If your baby is due in February, March or early April and you think you might enjoy sharing your childbirth experience with one of our students, please contact: Kerrie Wilson, School of Midwifery, 0800 762 786, kerrie.wilson@op.ac.nz

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See the epic story from every angle 23 Nov 2012 - 30 Jun 2013

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